Rise - Pursuing a Dream - Inglês version

Between Challenges and Disappointments Part II

While the team was deeply immersed in tactical analyses and discussions, tension hung thick in the air. Each member was pensive, trying to fathom how to deal with the situation that had unfolded. Pond was particularly restless, feeling somehow that his presence on the team had triggered all this turmoil.

Satang broke the tense silence, announcing a message from Maggie. He relayed that Phuwin was far from pleased with the decision made; they were on their way to the training center.

"That doesn't sound good," Dunk said, running his hand through his hair as he stared at the strategy plans on the screen.

"Focus on this here, when Phuwin arrives, I'll handle him," Force announced.

The tension in the room was nearly palpable as Phuwin entered, carrying a serious and determined look. The ensuing silence was broken only by his direct order: "P'Force, office, now."

Nervous glances were exchanged among the team members as Phuwin turned his back and headed to the office. Gemini, always the most impulsive of the group, was the first to move, nearly rushing to position himself near the office door. Satang followed suit, giving significant looks to the others. Dunk and Pond hesitated for a moment, but curiosity and concern drove them to join.

Gemini gestured for everyone to gather around the door, trying to better catch what was transpiring. Satang and Pond moved in, their ears attuned to the hushed voices in the office. The tension was almost unbearable, and everyone was anxious to uncover what was transpiring inside.

"P' Force, what happened? I warned you that we couldn't face Arika at this moment," Phuwin questioned, frustrated but trying to control his anger over the unfolding situation, knowing it wasn't fair to direct it at Force.

Force let out a heavy sigh, looking at Phuwin with seriousness. "I know, Phuwin, and I understand your concern. But you also need to grasp that the pressure was mounting, both from fans and sponsors. Not making a decision could harm the team's image."

Phuwin crossed his arms, visibly frustrated. "I understand the pressure you were under, but that doesn't mean I agree with the decision. I'm the captain of this team, and we should be making these decisions together, considering what's best for everyone. This training match, I fear what it might do to P'Pond's self-esteem. We should've fought harder to protect him," Phuwin revealed what was truly bothering him.

Force nodded, his expression showing a mix of understanding and guilt. "I know we erred in not listening to you before making this decision. And I tried talking to the president about it, but he was unyielding. But now the challenge is set, and we can't just back down."

Force's words only left Phuwin more frustrated. So, the decision had come directly from his father. Knowing him, there was likely nothing Force could've done to change his mind.

"It's only three days until the debut. Pond would have had to face a tough match anyway. Maybe this experience of playing at a high level, even if we lose, might be beneficial. He's been organically adapting to the team. Trust me, he's special," Force argued, trying to console the captain.

"He's more than special, and that's why Kira wants to face him so badly," Phuwin explained, slumping defeatedly into a chair.

"I don't understand what you mean, Phuwin," Force asked, confused.

"Everyone talks about how Kira is an excellent recruiter, but no one really talks about the techniques he uses. When I was at The Dragon Juniors, I experienced it. Or better yet, I witnessed his techniques up close. His nickname behind the scenes of the E-sports world is the 'prodigy reaper.' Phuwin said, leaving Force completely surprised by the explanation.