From Josh's vantage point, the Nexus Gaming Hub had taken on an entirely new aura. The space was now transformed into an electric amphitheatre of anticipation. The ambient lights, casting their soft glow, seemed more vibrant, the shadows they threw more dramatic.

He stood a little away from the elevated 1 v 1 station in the centre of the Nexus Gaming Hub, watching Cruz and Eshima take their positions. Cruz, always the picture of calm, was a study in concentration. Josh noticed him taking a deep breath, his fingers flexing before settling on the keys. It was a ritual Josh had seen before, perhaps it was Cruz's way of centering himself before a big game. His fingers lightly rested on the keyboard, ready to spring into action. Across from him, Eshima, with her golden hair neatly tied back, exuded a quiet confidence. Her eyes, usually so warm when they chatted, were now sharp, focused solely on the screen ahead. Whispers floated around, many in awe of 'Zillion,' Eshima's in-game name. She had carved a reputation for herself here in the Nexus Gaming Hub, and her presence commanded respect.

Around Josh, the spectator space was abuzz. Friends and fellow gamers had settled onto the plush cushions and seats, their conversations a mix of strategy discussions and friendly banter. Above, the giant screen flickered to life, showcasing the champion select screen, ensuring everyone had a clear view of the impending action. ‘Is this how it feels to be on the sidelines?’ Josh thought, his heart racing with a mix of excitement and anxiety. Alma teased Josh with a smirk. “You looked like a lost puppy without your keyboard, huh?”

Josh chuckled in response, "It felt weird not being in the driver's seat."

As the first champion icons appeared on the screen, Josh felt a nudge on his arm. Turning, he saw Alma, her eyes gleaming with excitement. "This is it," she whispered, her voice tinged with anticipation. Josh felt a flutter in his stomach, memories of his own past games flooding back. He remembered the weight of the mouse in his hand, the pressure of the moment. He glanced at Cruz, wondering if he felt the same. Cruz had always been the rock, the steady hand in their games. But today, the stakes were different. Josh hoped that Cruz's steady nature would see him through the match. ‘Stay focused, Cruz. You've got this,’ he silently willed his friend.

As Cruz's fingers danced over the keys, he felt the weight of the crowd's expectations. He had faced many opponents before, but Eshima was different. She was an expert at 1 v 1 situations and she wouldn’t make this challenge easy. He could hear the whispers around him, the murmurs of doubt. But Cruz had always thrived under pressure. He took a moment, closing his eyes and taking a deep breath, centering himself. 'One skill shot at a time,' he reminded himself. As the two players settled into their seats, the giant screen transitioned to display the official rules of the 1 v 1 duel.

Vera leaned in, "Notice how Eshima keeps glancing at the champion bans? She's planning something." Josh nodded, appreciating Vera's analytical eye.

Josh, though familiar with the general gameplay of Howling Abyss, was keen to understand the specifics of this particular format.

Alma, sensing his curiosity, began, "The 1 v 1s here are intense. Victory can be achieved in three ways: Drawing first blood, reaching a 100-minion kill count, or destroying the opponent's turret."

Vera added, "And while the Howling Abyss is a single lane, there are some champion-specific bans to ensure balance. With the ever-evolving meta, the list keeps updating."

Saem Bu, sipping his "BlitzBurst" drink, remarked, "There's also a strict 10-minute game timer. If none of the victory conditions are met by then, the player with the highest gold count wins."

Josh nodded, absorbing the information. "Sounds intense. Every move will count."

With the rules clear, the screen transitioned to the champion select phase, and the atmosphere in the room grew even more electric. The crowd waited with bated breath, eager to see the choices Cruz and Eshima would make. "A group to Josh's left started a chant, rooting for Eshima, while another group responded with cheers for Cruz. A spectator with neon-colored hair shouted, 'Come on, Zillion! Show him what you've got!

The champion select music, a haunting melody that many in the room had come to associate with moments of strategy and tension, began to play. Icons of various champions danced on the screen, some being hovered over momentarily, others being outright ignored.

Eshima was the first to lock in her choice, and the image of "Ragnar, the Iron Fist" solidified on her side of the screen. The crowd's reaction was immediate—a mix of cheers and murmurs of speculation. The choice of a relatively new champion in such a high-stakes duel was bold.

Cruz, almost murmuring to himself, remarked, "Brave choice, Eshima."

Eshima, seizing the moment, raised her arms, rallying the crowd with a spirited cheer. As the noise reached its peak, she leaned in towards her screen, whispering to herself with determination, "I play to win, not to be predictable."

Josh, intrigued by the selection, turned to Vera, "I've played against Ragnar a few times, but not enough to know all his tricks. What should Cruz be wary of?"

Vera, always ready with her in-depth game knowledge, began, "Ragnar's strength lies in his adaptability. His passive, 'Titan's Resolve,' is key. Every time he lands an ability or takes damage, he gains a stack of 'Resolve.' When he's fully stacked, his next ability gets an enhanced effect."

Saem Bu, leaning in, added, "That's right. Like his 'Iron Grasp.' Normally, he shoots out a chain to pull an enemy towards him. But with full 'Resolve'? The pull lasts longer, and it even stuns the target."

Alma, not to be left out, chimed in, "And don't get me started on 'Mountain's Wrath.' He slams the ground, dealing damage around him. But with that 'Resolve'? He creates a crater that slows anyone unlucky enough to be inside."

Vera continued, "His 'Blacksmith's Barrier' is a game-changer. Ragnar forges a shield around him. If enemies break it, it explodes, dealing damage. And yes, with full 'Resolve,' it's even more potent."

Saem Bu, with a hint of admiration, said, "But it's his ultimate that's truly terrifying. 'Colossus Crash.' He leaps to a location, dealing massive damage on landing. And with max 'Resolve'? The impact is even more devastating, damaging enemies over time."

Alma, with a playful smirk, added, "Sounds formidable, but knowing Cruz, he's got a trick or two up his sleeve."

The Howling Abyss echoed with the sounds of battle and the roars of the crowd. Time seemed to stretch and compress, moments of intense action followed by brief pauses where strategies were recalibrated. Each spell cast, each dodge, felt like a dance, choreographed yet unpredictable. Cruz's LeBlanc danced on the icy terrain, her every move a blend of grace and strategy. Opposite her, Eshima's Ragnar stood like an unyielding fortress, his chains clinking with every step, signalling his readiness.

The early minutes saw Cruz trying to establish dominance. Using LeBlanc's 'Sigil of Malice' and 'Distortion,' he aimed to poke and prod at Ragnar, chipping away at his health. The crowd watched with bated breath as each of LeBlanc's ethereal chains sought its target.

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However, Eshima was no novice. With a swift maneuver, she dodged LeBlanc's skill shots, closing the gap with 'Iron Grasp.' The chain shot out, aiming for LeBlanc, but Cruz was quick, using 'Distortion' to blink away, leaving behind a mere afterimage. ‘Come on, Cruz. Just a bit more,’ Josh found himself silently urging, feeling every twist and turn of the duel as if he were the one playing.

As the game progressed, Cruz found himself constantly adapting to Eshima's aggressive playstyle. He could hear Alma's voice in his head, reminding him to stay calm and think two steps ahead. Every time Eshima landed a hit, Cruz would counter, turning her aggression against her. It was a delicate dance, a game of cat and mouse.

"Did you see that dodge?" a spectator exclaimed, his voice filled with awe.

Alma leaned in, her voice a whisper, "Cruz is playing a dangerous game. He's baiting her, trying to make her overcommit."

Saem Bu nodded in agreement, "But Zillion is seasoned. She won't fall for simple tricks."

As the minutes ticked by, the tension ratcheted up. Eshima, sensing an opening, activated Ragnar's 'Mountain's Wrath,' slamming the ground and sending shockwaves towards LeBlanc. The crowd gasped as the ground beneath Cruz cracked, but with a swift move, he sidestepped, avoiding the brunt of the damage.

The cheers for Eshima grew louder, "Zillion's got this! One good combo and it's over!"

Eshima, amidst the roars and cheers, felt a different kind of pressure. It wasn't just about winning the game; it was about proving herself. The bet had been audacious, and the idea of joining a team of first years was daunting. She was a second year, with a reputation to uphold. Every move she made, every strategy she employed, was a message to her potential new teammates. She wanted to show them that even if she joined them, she wasn't going to be just another member; she was going to be a force to reckon with. Catching a brief glance from Josh, she saw a mix of hope and challenge in his eyes. Taking a deep breath, she whispered to herself, “This is for pride.” and refocused on the game.

But Cruz wasn't done. With a flourish, LeBlanc sent out her 'Ethereal Chains,' binding Ragnar in place. Capitalizing on this, Cruz unleashed a barrage of spells, whittling down Ragnar's health.

The atmosphere was electric. Every spell cast, every dodge, every strategic move was met with roars from the crowd. The underdog story of Cruz against the renowned Zillion had everyone on the edge of their seats. Eshima, sensing Cruz's strategy, decided to change tactics. Instead of going for the kill, she focused on farming, building up her gold and experience. She knew that in a game of attrition, she had the advantage. But she also knew that Cruz was smart, and he would catch on soon. She had to be ready.

"Come on, Cruz! One more combo!" a voice from the back shouted, rallying others to join in the cheer.

Eshima, however, remained unyielding. With a roar, she activated Ragnar's ultimate, 'Colossus Crash.' The ground trembled as Ragnar leaped into the air, aiming to crash down on LeBlanc.

The crowd held its collective breath, the outcome hanging in the balance.

The moment seemed to stretch, time slowing as Ragnar soared through the air, his colossal form casting a shadow over the icy terrain. Cruz, realizing the imminent danger, quickly activated LeBlanc's 'Mimic' ability, creating a perfect duplicate of himself.

The crowd watched in awe as two LeBlancs darted in opposite directions, leaving Eshima with a split-second decision. With a thunderous crash, Ragnar landed, targeting the real LeBlanc. The impact sent shockwaves across the Howling Abyss, but Cruz, with impeccable timing, used 'Distortion' to blink away, narrowly avoiding the brunt of the attack.

A collective gasp filled the room, followed by a deafening cheer. "What a play!" someone shouted, admiration evident in their voice.

Eshima, momentarily disoriented, tried to regain her footing, but Cruz seized the moment. Chain after chain, spell after spell, he unleashed a barrage on Ragnar, each hit reducing the titan's health.

With one final, decisive combo, Cruz's LeBlanc landed the killing blow, securing the victory. The screen flashed with the words "First Blood," signaling the end of the duel.

The Nexus Gaming Hub erupted in applause and cheers. The underdog had triumphed against the odds, showcasing skill, strategy, and sheer determination.

Josh, overwhelmed with pride, rushed to Cruz, enveloping him in a hearty embrace. "I knew you had it in you!" he exclaimed, his voice filled with emotion.

The screen's declaration of "First Blood" sent a rush of elation through Josh. He looked at Cruz, his friend's face a mirror of his own exhilaration. Without a word, they shared a hearty fist bump, a simple gesture that spoke volumes of their shared journey and triumph.

"That was... incredible," Josh breathed out, his voice filled with pride.

Cruz grinned, wiping away the sweat from his brow. "We did it. Thanks for believing in me."

As they turned to approach Eshima, the atmosphere shifted. The triumphant cheers were suddenly punctuated by a sharp sound. Eshima, her face a mask of frustration, had slammed her hand onto the table. The hub went silent, the weight of her disappointment palpable.

Her golden hair, which had shimmered under the soft glow of the hub lights now seemed to cast a shadow on her face, emphasizing her sharp features. The proud tilt of her chin and the set of her jaw conveyed her determination, even in defeat.

Josh hesitated, searching for the right words. He knew the sting of defeat all too well. Before he could speak, Eshima looked up, her eyes cold but determined, a hint of fire still burning within them.

“Good game,” she said, her voice carrying a hint of defiance as she extended her hand to Cruz.

Cruz met her gaze, nodding in acknowledgment. “You were a formidable opponent,” he replied, shaking her hand with respect.

Eshima’s eyes briefly flickered to Josh, as if challenging him to comment, but she remained silent, her posture radiating a mix of pride and guardedness.

Josh stepped forward, placing a reassuring hand on Eshima’s shoulder. “Welcome to the team,” he said, his voice warm and inviting.

Eshima swiftly moved his hand off her shoulder, her eyes meeting his with a challenging glare. Her half-Japanese, half-Eastern European heritage gave her a unique beauty, but it was her guarded demeanor that stood out. “I’m not here for pleasantries,” she replied, her voice firm with a hint of defiance. “I hope you all can keep up.”

The trio stood there, a mix of emotions filling the space - the joy of victory, the sting of defeat, and the uncertainty of a new alliance. As the crowd began to disperse, the lights of the Nexus Gaming Hub dimming, Josh felt a sense of anticipation. ‘With these two on our team, the skies the limit’, he mused.

As the trio began their descent from the elevated platform, a young boy, no older than twelve, with wide-eyed admiration, approached them. “Eshima,” he began timidly, “You’re still the best in my eyes.” Eshima hesitated for a moment, then knelt down to his level, ruffling his hair with a rare smile. “Thanks, kiddo. That means a lot.”

Alma, watching from a distance, approached with a knowing smile. "Eshima, we've seen your matches. The way you think, the strategies you employ... it's impressive."

Eshima raised an eyebrow, "Been spying on me?"

Vera, joining the conversation, added with a playful tone, "Let's call it... thorough research. We like to know who we're up against. And, potentially, who we're teaming up with."

Eshima crossed her arms, “Always good to be prepared, I guess.”

Saem Bu, holding his "BlitzBurst" drink a bit too tightly, approached hesitantly. "Um, I've seen some of your games too. You're... really good." He took a quick sip, as if to fortify himself, "I think we'll learn a lot from each other."

Josh, sensing the genuine sentiments being shared, said, "We're all here because of our love for the game. And while we have our strengths, together, we can be something more."

Eshima’s gaze then shifted back to Josh, her eyes holding a challenge. “Don’t get too comfortable with me on the team,” she began, her voice sharp, “I’m still weighing out my options.”

Josh responded with a confident smirk. “We’ll show you we’re worth it.”

The group shared a moment of understanding, the weight of their shared journey ahead settling in. As they exited the Nexus Gaming Hub, the ambient lights casting a soft glow around them, the promise of new challenges and adventures lingered in the air.

Josh, watching his teammates walk ahead, thought, 'All we need is one more’.