The day before Loser's Round 3, Chloe and her manager stormed into their influencer office, impatience etched across their faces as they waited for the professional team of coaches and analysts to deliver insights on her next opponent, Olivier Leclerc. Unlike her previous two matches, no detailed reports or strategic instructions had been provided in advance, which was highly unusual.
"I want a 100% guarantee that Chloe makes it to the next round. There can be no mistakes," her manager demanded, pacing in front of the analysts. His frustration grew with each passing second. "What's taking so long to put together the reports and instructions? We're paying top dollar for this!"
The lead analyst, looking uneasy, hesitated before responding. "We've done our best, but there isn't much information available. Olivier has only competed in one match so far. His first match was against an opponent with a ranged weapon, the second round ended in his forfeit before it even started, and the third round was a no-show by his opponent. The data is insufficient to build a solid strategy against him," he explained, his concern evident in his tone.
The head coach, equally uncertain, chimed in with what little advice he could muster. "From what we know, fencing is a calculated, straight-line engagement sport. If Olivier sticks to that approach, Chloe should capitalize on her unpredictable movements and psychological warfare to disrupt his rhythm and throw him off his game."
Chloe's manager shot the coach a withering glare before glancing at Chloe, who shook her head in disappointment. "That's the best you've got for the amount we're paying you?" he snapped.
The room fell silent as the analysts and coach averted their eyes, shame washing over them. They had no real answer, no surefire plan—just a vague suggestion of unpredictability.
"What a waste of time," the manager growled, standing abruptly. "Come on, Chloe. We'll handle this ourselves."
Chloe followed without a word, her expression unreadable. As they stomped out of the office, the only thing Chloe took with her was the faint advice—be unpredictable.
The day of Loser's Round 3 had finally arrived, and the atmosphere inside Maxwell Coliseum was electric. The crowd, a stronghold of 50,000 spectators, was alive with chants of "Chloe! Chloe! Chloe!" as fans rallied for their idol, Chloe Choi Soo-Min.
Pat and Samantha stood center stage, their voices cutting through the roaring cheers as they began the opening ceremony.
"We are finally here—Loser's Round 3! Two matches will decide who moves forward today!" Pat announced, his words almost drowned out by the deafening chants echoing throughout the arena.
"You can feel the anticipation, Pat," Samantha chimed in, leaning closer to the mic. "The first match features none other than fan-favorite, Chloe Choi Soo-Min, as she takes on Olivier Leclerc!" As Samantha spoke Chloe's name, the crowd erupted in cheers, louder than before.
"That's right, Samantha! Today's winners will proceed to Loser's Round 4, facing either Eliza Hart or Carter Brooks. The losers, however, will be eliminated from the tournament altogether. I don't think we should keep the crowd waiting any longer—let's get this match started!" Pat's voice boomed, hyping the audience further as cheers swelled throughout the stadium.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/7/71/Chloe_Choi_Soo-Min_Profile.png] image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/c/c0/Versus.png] image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/3/37/Olivier_Leclerc_Profile.png]
The massive LED billboard flickered to life, flashing the faces and names of the first competitors—Chloe Choi Soo-Min vs. Olivier Leclerc.
"Chloe! Chloe! Chloe!" the crowd roared as Chloe Choi Soo-Min made her entrance, confidently marching into the arena with her silver golf club in hand. She smiled and waved at her fans, exuding charisma that lit up the stadium. Beneath her composed exterior, however, Chloe's mind was racing, her focus locked on the battle ahead. The advice from her professional coaches repeated in her head—be unpredictable.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/7/74/Siren%27s_Swing.png]
Without hesitation, Chloe initiated Siren's Swing, elegantly swinging her club in a hypnotic, rhythmic pattern. The rhythmic whooshing sound echoed across the arena as she aimed to disorient Olivier Leclerc. Her eyes narrowed as she noticed Olivier standing motionless, appearing confused. He subtly manipulated his épée behind his back, a faint smile playing on his lips. To Chloe, he looked like a blur of indecision.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/e/ec/Dazzling_Swing.png] image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/9/9d/En_Garde_Enigma.png] image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/f/fd/Oliver_performing_En_Garde_Enigma%2C_witha_defensive_en_garde_stance%2C_he_then_unleashes_a_swift_and_unexpected_backhanded_strike.png] image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/1/1b/Stylish_Parry.png]
Seeing the opening, Chloe transitioned into Dazzling Swing, pouring her energy into a single, powerful strike that created a blinding flash of light. The crowd gasped in awe as she aimed to further disorient Olivier with a crushing blow. But Olivier sidestepped effortlessly, the strike missing its mark. His earlier stillness was no accident—it was En Garde Enigma, a deceptive stance that lulls opponents into a false sense of control. In an instant, Olivier countered with a swift backhanded strike. Chloe quickly responded with Stylish Parry, deflecting his attack and keeping him at bay, her poised and elegant stance earning cheers from the crowd.
Despite her quick thinking, Chloe's confidence wavered. Both her disorienting moves had failed to shake Olivier. She struggled to read his enigmatic smile—was it friendly, or did it mask something far more devious? As she hesitated, trying to determine her next move, Olivier acted. Launching into what appeared to be a clumsy maneuver, he grazed the tip of his épée across Chloe's golf club.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/c/cd/Calculated_Clip.png]
The subtle move, Calculated Clip, seemed insignificant but was anything but. The precision of his strike disrupted Chloe's grip, creating a split second of vulnerability. Before she could recover, Chloe realized she was on the back foot, stunned by Olivier's calculated strategy.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/e/eb/Oliver_performing_Lunge_and_Disengage%2C_lunges_forward_with_a_powerful_thrust%2C_then_quickly_disengages_and_retreat.png]
Olivier immediately followed up with Lunge and Disengage, lunging forward with a precise thrust that grazed Chloe's chest—not enough to knock her down, but enough to remind her of his calculated control. With fluid precision, he quickly disengaged and retreated, maintaining the space between them. Once again, that faint, enigmatic smile appeared on his face as he watched her reaction.
"Olivier has the first strike! But it's not enough to put Chloe down!" Pat exclaimed, his excitement evident despite the sea of boos from the audience.
"Not sure about Olivier's game plan," Samantha added, her tone analytical but tinged with confusion. "His Lunge and Disengage definitely made contact with Chloe's chest, but he chose not to follow through. It seemed like he had an opportunity to put Chloe in serious trouble, yet he opted to retreat. Perhaps he's testing the waters, but it could have been his chance to end the match early." Her comments were met with louder jeers from Chloe's devoted fans, clearly unhappy with Olivier's approach.
The thrust didn't physically hurt Chloe, but her frustration was noticeable. To her, Olivier's actions felt less like genuine competition and more like he was mocking and teasing her. His subtle, enigmatic smile only added fuel to the fire. Tightening her grip on her golf club, she glared at him, her usual composure giving way to visible irritation.
"Are you looking down on me?" Chloe demanded, her voice shaking with frustration as she glared at Olivier. He responded with nothing but a calm, infuriating smile. His silence only stoked the fire of her irritation, mirrored by the growing unease in the audience. Unable to elicit a response, Chloe decided that action would speak louder than words.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/5/50/Bunker_Blast.png] image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/0/07/Silver_Flash.png]
Without hesitation, she unleashed Bunker Blast, slamming her clubhead into the ground to create a small explosion of dirt and debris aimed at Olivier's face. Seeing what she thought was an opening, she immediately followed up with Silver Flash, delivering a rapid series of strikes with her golf club, each swing executed with lightning speed and precision. "How do you like that, huh?" she shouted, confident she had gained the upper hand.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/c/c7/Strategic_Withdraw.png]
But something felt wrong. As Chloe swung furiously, her club seemed to hit nothing but air. To her horror, she realized her strikes were missing entirely—Olivier wasn't where she thought he was. He had activated Strategic Withdraw, a technique that allowed him to retreat tactically, manipulating Chloe into attacking blindly while positioning himself for a counterstrike.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/5/54/Phantom_Footwork.png]
When she finally spotted Olivier, he was standing a few paces away, unscathed and smiling once more. The calm grin on his face only deepened her frustration. Before Chloe could react, he vanished from view, reappearing mere inches from her face. Deploying Phantom Footwork, he used deceptive movements to create the illusion of being closer than he actually was. Leaning in, he whispered chillingly into her ear, "You know, your beautiful face… if scratched by my Épée, I wonder if it would still be worth as much."
The words sent a cold shiver down Chloe's spine. She instinctively stepped back, clutching her golf club in front of her face to shield it. Her mind raced—her face was her livelihood, and the thought of it being disfigured paralyzed her with fear.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/2/23/Oliver_performing_Opportunist%27s_Onslaught_utilizing_his_cunning_and_ability_to_play_dirty%2Ccreates_a_distraction_before_delivering_a_sudden_and_powerful_strike_from_an_unexpected_angle.png]
Olivier seized the moment. His words weren't just taunts—they were part of his Ultimate Move: Opportunist's Onslaught. Exploiting Chloe's moment of distraction, he struck with his Épée from an unexpected angle, delivering a sudden and powerful thrust. This time, there was no holding back. The blade pierced Chloe's side, and he twisted it deliberately, forcing a cry of pain from her lips. "Ahhh!" she screamed, her golf club clattering to the ground as she collapsed.
The audience gasped, their cheers replaced by a stunned silence. Even Chloe's most devoted fans watched in shock, their faces etched with worry. The referee immediately intervened, shouting, "Release her! You've won the match!" Olivier smirked and withdrew his Épée, stepping back with a smug expression as the referee declared him the victor.
The paramedics and Chloe's manager rushed onto the field as she fainted from the pain. The crowd, initially roaring with cheers for their idol, now sat in stunned silence, their energy replaced by a heavy tension as they watched the scene unfold. Olivier, unfazed by the somber mood, stood calmly, the quiet reaction of the audience seemingly music to his ears. He walked out of the arena proudly, relishing the victory and the downfall of the influencer and her loyal fans.
"Oliver emerges victorious! Not entirely sure what happened out there—Chloe suddenly covered her face mid-match," Pat commented, both he and Samantha unaware of Olivier's dirty trick.
"It seems like Olivier's mind games caused a crack in Chloe's composure," Samantha analyzed. "She tried to regain control by using Bunker Blast to send dirt into Olivier's face, followed by Silver Flash, her rapid barrage of strikes. However, as the slow-motion replay shows, Olivier had already deployed Strategic Withdraw, retreating before the dirt could even reach him. And then he closed the distance with Phantom Footwork, which caught Chloe off-guard. For some reason, she got scared and covered her face, leaving an opening for Olivier to use his ultimate, Opportunist's Onslaught. That move ended Chloe's run in this tournament without hesitation."
"It's sad to see one of our most popular competitors eliminated," Pat added, his tone tinged with disappointment. "But hey, this is a competition. We wish Chloe a speedy recovery and all the best in her influencer career."
Samantha nodded in agreement. "Yes, we hope Chloe recovers quickly. Fans, don't go anywhere! Up next is the battle of Starlight University between Preston Montgomery and Jake Harada. Stay tuned!"
Preston gripped his cue stick tightly, preparing to step into the arena with an air of confidence radiating from his every move. In his mind, this match was already decided. "This is my chance to ensure I'm not the first one eliminated from Starlight University," he thought, bolstered by his belief in his superior class and social standing over Jake.
"And here we are, down to the final match of Loser's Round 3—a battle between two schoolmates!" Pat's voice echoed through the Maxwell Coliseum, hyping up the crowd.
"That's right, Pat. Though both represent Starlight University, their styles couldn't be more different. One is known for his brilliance and sophistication, combining strategic acumen and finesse with his cue stick to take down numerous opponents. Introducing Preston Montgomery!" Samantha announced as Preston strode confidently into the arena, his movements deliberate and precise.
You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/7/7b/Preston_Montgomery_Profile.png] image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/c/c0/Versus.png] image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/e/eb/Jake_Harada%2C_Athenaeum_Games_profile.png]
"And his opponent, resourceful and adaptable, bringing his light-hearted demeanor and friendly sportsmanship to every match with his trusty baseball bat—Jake Harada!" Samantha's voice energized the crowd as the billboard lit up, displaying both competitors' names, and the audience erupted in cheers.
As the referee checked the competitors, Jake raised his hand in a friendly wave toward Preston. "Hey, Preston! Let's have a good match!" he called out cheerfully.
Preston, however, didn't even acknowledge Jake's gesture. In his mind, Jake was beneath him—nothing more than an unlucky fool who would become the first Starlight University competitor eliminated from the tournament. "Harada, you're just unlucky to meet me. You'll be the first to fall," Preston thought smugly, dismissing Jake entirely.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/a/a3/Preston_performing_the_Precision_Strike%2C_target_precise_points_on_an_opponent%27s_body%2C_aiming_to_incapacitate_with_minimal_force.png]
Once the referee ensured both competitors were ready, he raised his hand, brought it down sharply, and blew the whistle—"BEEEEEP!" The match had begun, and Preston wasted no time. Without hesitation, he launched Precision Strike, a move that targeted precise points on Jake's body, aiming to incapacitate him with minimal force. The calculated nature of the strike reflected Preston's preference for precision and control, both in billiards and combat.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/9/95/Batter%27s_Intuition.png] image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/9/98/Slide_Dodge.png]
However, Jake's Batter's Intuition kicked in, allowing him to see the incoming attack with his keen sense of anticipation. Reacting swiftly, Jake executed a Slide Dodge, a smooth sliding motion that carried him just below the trajectory of the cue stick as it struck above. The evasive maneuver left Preston's attack ineffective, keeping Jake safe and on his feet.
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Preston was unimpressed by Jake's dodge, dismissing it as mere luck rather than skill. Refusing to give Jake a moment to breathe, he launched Break Shot Rush, closing the distance with the explosive speed of a powerful break shot. Preston unleashed a rapid series of precise strikes with his cue stick, forcing Jake onto the defensive. Jake quickly responded with Bunt Block, deflecting Preston's relentless attacks using his bat.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/1/14/Home_Run_Swing.png]
Frustrated by his inability to land a blow, Preston's aggression left him open to a counterattack. Jake seized the opportunity, swinging with Home Run Swing. The bat connected solidly with Preston's side, sending him sprawling to the ground with a loud "Thump!"
"Jake scored a home run, landing the first hit—what an unexpected turn of events!" Pat exclaimed excitedly. "Preston was the aggressor, using Precision Strike and Break Shot Rush to pressure Jake, but Jake remained vigilant. His Slide Dodge and Bunt Block allowed him to evade and defend, and he countered effectively with Home Run Swing. It's an incredible reversal where the defensive player landed the first blow," Samantha added, providing a play-by-play breakdown.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/3/30/Preston_performing_the_Spin_Control%2C_the_fluidity_and_unpredictability_of_his_movements_with_the_cue_stick.png]
Preston, now on the ground, was visibly shocked. "That lower-class Jake scored a hit on me? How could this be possible? I cannot lose! I won't be the first one eliminated from Starlight University!" he thought, twitching his glasses as he re-evaluated his approach. Determined to regain control, he calmed himself and began applying Spin Control, subtly spinning his cue stick to confuse Jake with the unpredictability of his movements, much like executing a spin shot in billiards.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/a/a2/Curveball_Confound.png] image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/f/f2/Preston_performing_the_Cushion_Escape%2C_using_his_cue_stick_to_swiftly_change_position_or_escape_encirclement.png]
Jake, unaware of Preston's tactic, decided to use Curveball Confound, picking up a baseball from the arena floor and throwing it in an arc that curved unpredictably toward Preston. However, the projectile missed its mark as Preston effortlessly deployed Cushion Escape, leveraging his cue stick against the arena wall to swiftly reposition himself, avoiding the baseball's trajectory with ease.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/a/a1/Preston_performing_%27Cue_Vault%27%2C_uses_his_cue_stick_to_vault_over_low_attacks_or_obstacles.png]
Preston appeared like a transformed fighter—more strategic and composed than before. However, his disdainful view of Jake as a member of a "lower class" remained unchanged. With the head of his cue stick pointed toward the ground, he performed Cue Vault, propelling himself forward with a leap and closing the distance to Jake in mere seconds. Without hesitation, Preston struck at Jake with precision.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/0/01/Fielder%27s_Choice.png] image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/6/62/Bunt_Block.png] image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/3/34/Preston_performing_the_Strategic_Feint%2C_executing_a_deceptive_maneuver%2C_faking_an_attack_to_draw_the_opponent%27s_defense.png] image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/2/22/Preston_performing_the_Double_Hit_executing_two_rapid%2C_successive_strikes_with_his_cue_stick%2C_where_the_second_strike_capitalizes_on_the_rebound_energy_from_the_first.png]
Jake, relying on his Fielder's Choice, made a split-second decision to switch to a defensive stance, performing another Bunt Block to deflect the incoming strike. But it was all part of Preston's Strategic Feint. Smirking, Preston mimicked a deceptive billiards play, drawing Jake's defense to one side. Exploiting the opening, he immediately executed Double Hit, delivering two quick successive strikes, with the second using the rebound energy of the first—just like a double kiss shot in billiards.
Tuck! Tuck! The sharp sound of two consecutive impacts echoed through the arena as Jake was struck not once, but twice. The crowd roared with excitement as the match swung back and forth, showcasing the skill and tactics of both competitors. Meanwhile, Jake's friends clenched their teeth, visibly tense as the momentum seemed to shift away from Jake. "Jake…" Luna whispered, her hands clasped in silent prayer. "You've got this."
"The action goes back and forth! Preston seems to be the one in control! What's going to happen next?" Pat exclaimed, his voice full of dramatic flair. Samantha chimed in with her analysis: "Preston has truly adapted after taking that early hit from Jake's bat. He's regained control of the match's flow, using his moves like Cushion Escape and Cue Vault to stay elusive and keep Jake guessing. His Strategic Feint completely threw Jake off, allowing him to land two decisive hits with Double Hit—an incredibly tactical move inspired by billiards' double kiss shot. You have to give credit to Preston Montgomery's brilliance here!"
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/8/84/Spin_Control.png]
Preston, feeling confident, maintained a smug demeanor, spinning his cue stick in a controlled Spin Control as he waited for Jake to recover. He was no longer rushing for the win; instead, he adopted a calculated approach, reminiscent of lining up the perfect shot in billiards. He chose not to press the attack, opting instead to lure Jake into making the next move.
Jake brushed himself off, unfazed by the hits. Instead of showing frustration, he smiled and called out: "That's a good one, Preston!" His tone was lighthearted, treating Preston more as a comrade than an opponent. Preston, however, gave no response, his disdain for Jake's perceived "lower status" evident in his silence.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/e/e5/Fastball_Flick.png] image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/2/2a/Cushion_Escape.png]
Jake then took the initiative, picking up multiple random balls scattered around the arena. With a flick of his wrist, he unleashed Fastball Flick, sending the balls hurtling toward Preston at high speed. However, Preston effortlessly dodged the barrage with another Cushion Escape, leveraging the walls to reposition himself with ease.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/9/91/Stealing_Bases.png] image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/c/c4/Jake_Harada_performing_Home_Run_Swing%2C_swinging_his_baseball_bat_with_exceptional_power%2C_aiming_to_knock_out_opponents_or_send_projectiles_back.png] image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/1/12/Preston_performing_the_Cue_Vault%2C_shows_him_using_his_cue_stick_to_vault_over_challenges.png]
But Jake wasn't done. He followed the projectile attack with Stealing Bases, moving stealthily and closing the distance between himself and Preston. With a powerful swing, Jake executed Home Run Swing, aiming to end the match decisively. Preston, however, smirked and easily evaded the attack with a Cue Vault, leaving Jake's bat to strike the corner of the wall with a resounding "Thud!"
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/3/3c/Corner_Pocket_Pin.png]
When Jake turned around, he realized Preston had been baiting him all along. The precise movements and positioning were part of Preston's Corner Pocket Pin, trapping Jake in a disadvantageous position near the corner of the arena. It was eerily reminiscent of Jake's loss to Naomi in the first round and Preston's victories against other opponents.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/a/ac/Preston_preparing_to_perfrom_the_Final_Rack.png] image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/7/7a/Final_Rack.png]
Smiling, Preston prepared to unleash his ultimate move. "Clear!" he declared, lining Jake up for Final Rack—a powerful and decisive strike that combines his knowledge of angles and momentum to "clear the table."
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/f/fb/Jake_Harada_performing_Batter%27s_Intuition%2C_allowing_him_to_read_his_opponents%27_movements%2C_giving_him_the_ability_to_react_swiftly_and_strike_with_precision.png] image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/1/1c/Grand_Slam.png]
But things didn't go as Preston had planned. Unlike Naomi, who had worn Jake down before going for her finishing move, Preston had underestimated Jake's endurance. Still fresh, Jake read the incoming cue stick strike with Batter's Intuition, his keen eye allowing him to react swiftly. Instead of dodging, Jake leapt into the air, avoiding the trajectory of Preston's strike, and unleashed his own ultimate, Grand Slam. With immense power, Jake brought his bat down in a devastating arc, precisely striking Preston's shoulder.
"Thwack!" The impact sent Preston's cue stick clattering to the ground as he staggered back, unable to continue. The referee stepped in immediately, checking on Preston before blowing the whistle to signal the end of the match. The crowd erupted in thunderous cheers as Jake was declared the winner.
In the stands, Jake's friends celebrated his hard-fought victory. "Way to go, Jake!" Carter shouted, his voice brimming with pride. Luna cheered loudly, her excitement contagious, while Maddie clapped with a gentle smile, her joy for Jake muted by her lingering disappointment from her own experience. As composed as ever, Akane joined in with soft applause, her pride evident in her quiet demeanor.
"I can't believe it! What happened out there? I thought Preston had this in the bag!" Pat exclaimed, clearly baffled by the sudden turn of events that led to Preston's defeat. "Let’s watch the slow-motion replay." Samantha chimed in, equally intrigued by how Preston was disarmed in mere seconds.
As the replay unfolded, the commentators pieced together the action. "Preston was continuously in control with his impressive mobility skills," Samantha began. "He managed to maneuver Jake into the corner with his Corner Pocket Pin, creating a disadvantageous position—just like trapping a ball in a corner pocket. His strategy was flawless, and he had Jake perfectly lined up for his ultimate, Final Rack."
Samantha paused for emphasis before delivering her critical analysis. "However, Preston made one crucial mistake—he didn’t wear down Jake’s stamina enough before attempting his ultimate. If he had, the move could have finished the match decisively."
She continued, breaking down the decisive moment. "Preston’s Final Rack is a powerful and decisive strike, but it moves in a straight line—much like a billiard cue must align perfectly for a shot. Unfortunately for Preston, Jake’s ultimate, Grand Slam, was the perfect counter. By leaping above the straight trajectory of Preston’s attack, Jake not only avoided the strike but delivered a crushing blow to Preston’s shoulder, disarming him completely and sealing his victory."
"What a dramatic finish to the match!" Pat added, still marveling at the precision and timing of Jake’s move. "It just goes to show that even when you’re in control, one mistake can cost everything."
In the arena, the atmosphere was starkly divided between the two competitors. Preston stood motionless, head bowed, clutching his injured shoulder while staring at the ground. His cue stick lay discarded at his feet, unmoving, as if frozen in time. The weight of his defeat pressed heavily on him. He couldn’t believe what had just transpired. The harsh reality of being the first competitor from Starlight University to be eliminated hit him like a crushing blow. His dream lay shattered.
Jake, however, wasn’t celebrating his victory. His gaze shifted to Preston, noticing the unsettling silence and stillness surrounding his opponent. Concerned, Jake approached cautiously, his tone sincere as he asked, "Preston, are you okay?"
Preston slowly lifted his head, locking eyes with Jake. But instead of gratitude, his expression was filled with hatred and anger. Consumed by the humiliation of his loss, Preston couldn’t accept being defeated by someone he deemed of lower social standing. Misinterpreting Jake’s concern as mockery, his frustration boiled over.
Without a word, Preston bent down, picked up his cue stick, and gripped it tightly with both hands. In a sudden, dramatic display of anger, he slammed it against his knee, snapping it cleanly in half. He tossed the broken pieces to the ground with disdain, his frustration and displeasure with the outcome of the match unmistakable. Jake froze, taken aback, as he realized just how deeply enraged Preston truly was.
Still silent, Preston turned and stormed out of the arena, leaving Jake standing there, stunned and concerned, as the crowd watched in a mix of tension and confusion.
"And we come to the end of Loser's Round 3! In two more days, we’ll meet again for Loser's Round 4, where today’s winners, Olivier Leclerc and Jake Harada, will face Carter Brooks and Eliza Hart, respectively," Pat commented with enthusiasm.
"Yes, Pat, this is getting exciting! After Loser's Round 4, we’ll be down to the final four. I can’t wait to see how it all unfolds! Unfortunately, we must say goodbye to both Chloe Choi Soo-Min and Preston Montgomery. Let’s give them a round of applause—they’ve given us some incredible moments. We wish them all the best in their future endeavors and hope to see them again in the next Atheneum Games!" Samantha added warmly.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/d/dc/Pat_Samson_Profile.png] image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/3/39/Samantha_White_Profile.png]
"Thanks, folks, for tuning in! My name is Pat Sampson," he announced with his signature energy. "And I’m Samantha White," Samantha chimed in smoothly. "Signing off from the Atheneum Games—see you in two days!"
With their closing statements, the producer cued the rolling credits, bringing the broadcast to an end.