Chapter 33:
Rayn had just finished studying for an upcoming biology quiz. He closed his textbook, stretched his fingers, and placed his notes to the side.
The room was dimly lit, quiet, the hum of his device filling the background as he booted up Legends of Dawn.
He wasn't expecting anything new tonight.
Until a message popped up.
Aether:
"Hey Rayn — got a minute?"
Rayn blinked. He hadn't played with Aether in a while, though he remembered every match vividly. Calm coordination, smooth rotations, no drama.
Before he could reply, a second message arrived.
Aether:
"Me and Flash are putting together a 5-man team for an open online tournament next week. It's a low-key thing — nothing major, just a few organized matches. Thought you might be interested."
Rayn's eyes narrowed slightly as he leaned forward.
Flash:
"Prize pool's small. Just a gift card thing. But some solid players join these, and we figured… why not?"
"We've got four locked already — I'm mid, Aether's roam, Kray on gold lane, and Riku in jungle. We need a reliable EXP laner or a flexible fifth."
There was no rush. No spam. Just a respectful ask.
Rayn sat still for a moment, thinking.
He'd wanted to try a tournament before — even considered the school one — but hadn't joined because he didn't want the noise, the spotlight, or the social effort of forming a team.
But this… this was different.
He took a breath.
Rayn:
"I haven't played much in team comps, but I'm open to it."
"EXP lane or flex is fine. I'll do my part."
Aether replied almost immediately.
Aether:
"That's all we need. No pressure to talk on mic or be super social. Just play how you play."
"We know your style. That's why we asked."
Flash added with a smile emoji:
Flash:
"Let's just say it wasn't a long debate."
Rayn allowed himself a small smile. He hadn't realized he'd made such an impression.
Rayn:
"Thanks for the invite. I'll give it my best."
"Just send me the scrim times and details."
Aether:
"Will do. First one's this weekend. Just some practice runs — get a feel for synergy."
"You'll like Riku and Kray. Solid players. Chill too."
Flash:
"And if we lose, we blame Aether."
Aether:
"Obviously."
Rayn chuckled quietly and closed the chat.
He taught one opportunity gone and other came feeling happy inside. His blood was boiling for the upcoming fight.
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