Epilogue: After Winning the Championship (END)

Xiao’s father chuckled coldly.

“Why am I so skeptical?” Xiao’s father smoothly connected his logic, “I know all the children I’ve raised. Both you and your brothers have a cold-blooded nature deep down. Wasn’t the media coverage of the past something you planned?”

“Blaming that child and ruining his reputation, only you can do that,” Xiao’s father’s frown grew increasingly severe as he spoke, convincing himself more and more, “I found out that the child has hardly any relatives, a small social circle, and was even targeted by former colleagues… Did you do all of that?”

Xiao Yin remained silent.

He thought for a moment, but couldn’t find a way to explain himself.

“Speechless, huh?” Xiao’s father sneered again, “Your business tactics are much more ruthless than this. How could you not use them on others?”

Xiao Yin raised his hands to show his innocence. “I did use some means.”

“Good, keep talking,” Xiao’s father said, “If the answer doesn’t satisfy me, I’ll call that child in here for a confrontation.”

Xiao Yin took a deep breath.

“I lied about needing him to join my company and team; I just wanted a reason to come back and be with him.”

“Because I didn’t want him to go elsewhere. I wanted to present a team that suits him perfectly. Everything was arranged to make him feel it’s just right.”

Xiao Yin said, “I assure you that I never did any of the things you mentioned. He’s a very genuine and passionate person, and I wanted him to be with me in the most genuine and comfortable state, so we initially agreed on a contract relationship.”

Xiao’s father’s frown deepened.

His youngest son.

Could he really control everything like this?

Why was he so skeptical?

Xiao Yin seized the opportunity to strike back, “I believe that when you pursued my mother, you didn’t use any means to deceive or harm her, did you?”

“Your mother?” Xiao’s father mentioned his wife, and his facial expression visibly softened. He chuckled, “You think I pursued your mother? Your mother was even more assertive than me. It was during the first week of school when I was in class. She slapped a wad of cash on my face and said she would buy me three semesters of time to be her boyfriend. The condition was that I couldn’t talk to any other girls…”

Xiao Yin had heard this story from his parents so many times that his ears were calloused. “Then she found out you were from a well-connected family. During the Chinese New Year in our second year of high school, my mother proposed the marriage.”

“It wasn’t like that,” Xiao’s father gradually forgot the original topic, feeling particularly proud, “She is my wife.”

“So,” Xiao Yin said with some helplessness, speaking calmly, “Do you trust me? A Yi and I are in a voluntary relationship. Don’t scare him away.”

“If you want me to believe, it’s simple,” Xiao’s father said casually, “Give me your shares in XX. I want a 30% stake. I won’t misuse them. Let me play around with them, and the surplus can be returned as a dowry, all of it given to your little boyfriend.”

“My wife,” Xiao Yin corrected.

“Okay, deal,” Xiao’s father stared at him, “Will you do it or not? If you choose to live with a man, then you won’t be able to take over the company. It will be a huge loss for our family and the company.”

Xiao Yin said, “Fine, I’ll call my assistant right now.”

Seeing that Xiao Yin didn’t hesitate at all, Xiao’s father made a gesture to stop him, “Oh, forget it, fine, you’re capable enough, my boy.”

Xiao Yin had already prepared the message and was ready to send it. “?”

Xiao’s father rubbed his temples. “I was just casually teasing you. But it seems like you’re serious this time.”

“I’ve always been serious,” Xiao Yin said. “You can take as much of the company as you want. A Yi and I will retire in a few years. If we don’t continue to compete in e-sports, we just need a place to work.”

Xiao Yin paused for a moment and said, “I plan to leave the VIT in China to A Yi’s name. He doesn’t have any other desires, as long as he doesn’t have too much money. After he turns thirty, we’ll see where he wants to go, and I’ll accompany him wherever he wants to go. Traveling or doing some small business would be fine too.”

“You’re dreaming!” Xiao’s father said. “You want to push the company on me? You and your partner will just collect your salaries, right?”

Xiao’s father was so angry that he almost lost control. “You little brat, you’re scheming so well. Do you think I’ll agree to your terms? Let me tell you, I don’t want your company, but I want you to take over mine.”

“?” Xiao Yin questioned.

“The money we earn in this lifetime can’t be taken with us when we’re gone. I’ll hand it all over to you,” Xiao’s father said.

He looked at his youngest son, who seemed to have even planned his retirement, and suddenly understood this major matter. “Are you capable of bankrupting my company? You can’t live too comfortably! Nowadays, having a same-sex relationship isn’t a problem. In fact, I saw that the stock price rose after you made your relationship public…”

Xiao Yin remained silent.

Xiao Yin said, “I refuse.”

Subsequently, Xiao Yin ignored his father, who was lost in thought, and left the room alone.

Only the angry roar of his father could be heard from behind, “Come back here! Are you planning a rebellion?”

Xiao Yin turned back, closed the door, and looked up, meeting the curious yet fearful eyes in the living room.

Mrs. Lei’s asked, “What did he do to you? Let me go talk to him.”

Lei Ya calmly speculated, “Could it be that he wants you to take over again? If that’s the case, let me remind you that he had a heartfelt conversation with me on the phone this morning. The core idea was that having a female successor would significantly increase the company’s stock value, so it would be best if I took over… Of course, I declined.”

Xiao Yin was very low-key and said, “I refused too.”

Lei Ya burst into laughter immediately.

Only Rong Yi was still holding the teacup he gave him, quite curious, but in the current situation, it didn’t seem convenient to ask.

Xiao Yin looked at him, walked over, and sat down beside him, naturally pulling him into his arms, and the two of them leaned against each other.

In front of the adults, Rong Yi felt a bit shy, but Xiao Yin didn’t give him time to be shy and whispered in his ear.

“My dad asked me if I forced you to be with me by any means.”

Rong Yi couldn’t help but laugh out loud. “And then?”

Xiao Yin said, “I said no. When he comes, you say it.”

“What should I say?”

Rong Yi leaned in and asked in a whisper, and Xiao Yin calmly said, “Say that you forced me to be with you by any means.”

Rong Yi: “?”

He almost burst out laughing but managed to hold it in.

Xiao Yin said, “Be good, I’ll give you a 5,000 yuan red envelope.”

Rong Yi raised his voice softly, “Add another 5,000 yuan.”

Xiao Yin lowered his voice, “Deal.”

This damned desire to win or lose.

The meeting with the parents continued in a harmonious atmosphere.

Due to it not being a holiday, most of Xiao’s relatives, including Xiao Yin’s elder brother, didn’t have time to come back. The next gathering would be during the New Year, and they would first return to the country.

This time, it was considered as Rong Yi completely visiting as their daughter-in-law, paying a visit.

On the elders’ side, Aunt Lei and Xiao’s father each gave a bank card, saying it was a gift for the meeting. Rong Yi didn’t know the specific amount inside and didn’t dare to ask.

At the dinner table, they briefly talked about things that are usually discussed in a normal family, like the villa courtyard that Xiao Yin hadn’t visited in hundreds of years, and Lei Ya’s work arrangements for this year.

After dinner, Mrs. Lei’s took Rong Yi around, introducing him to Xiao’s mansion, and instructed Xiao Yin to take him skiing tomorrow, arrange a barbecue and camping, and also invite the children from VIT.

In the meantime, Xiao Yin was called aside by Mrs. Lei’s.

Rong Yi didn’t pay attention to this matter, so he didn’t notice. It was Xiao Yin who told him after he came back.

“My mom asked me about the wedding, how it should be arranged, and which parents should be involved. Especially your parents.”

“I talked to my mom about it, and we plan to handle the part involving your parents with our own family. They are all men, and no one is marrying anyone. We’ll consider it as if our family already has a son like this.”

“My mom said she will take care of the part involving your family and declare that from now on, Rong Yi is our family and doesn’t belong to them anymore.”

Xiao Yin embraced Rong Yi and said, “My sister also told my mom about what happened before. She was very angry. She said, ‘A Yi is such a good kid, and we can’t even raise him. How could there be a biological mother and relatives like that?’ Don’t mind her, that’s just her personality.”

Rong Yi suppressed his laughter, shaking with laughter.

“No wonder she said back then that it was she who proposed to Uncle, forcing Uncle to be with her.”

After Rong Yi finished laughing, he sincerely sighed, “It’s really good.”

Middle-aged people take care of their health and rest early. Lei’s mother and Xiao’s father soon washed up and dressed in pajamas, watching TV in the upstairs living room. On the other side, Lei Ya started working overtime.

Left with only Xiao Yin and Rong Yi, the two of them took a walk in the yard.

In late autumn, the yard was slightly chilly in the evening. Xiao Yin opened his coat and wrapped Rong Yi in it as they walked slowly.

“When I was a kid, I used to play skateboarding here every day after school,” Xiao Yin said. “I didn’t like playing football, but my sister did. My parents were worried I would break my leg, but the doctor said it’s better than staying home and doing nothing. I was weak back then.”

“On the other hand, my sister broke her leg while playing football once.” Xiao Yin laughed.

“Really?” Rong Yi reached out to touch his firm abs, “And you can skate too. That’s so cool. I want to try it too.”

“Do you really want to?”

Xiao Yin lowered his head to meet Rong Yi’s gaze. He saw his eyes sparkling like a deer’s eyes, shining in the darkness.

He really wanted to try.

So, Xiao Yin went back to his room and took out his skateboard from his teenage years. He cherished his things very much. The skateboard was a model from over ten years ago, covered in scratches but not damaged. It was a professional-level skateboard, and the marks on it seemed to represent the youthful memories that Rong Yi had never heard of.

Xiao Yin handed Rong Yi a pair of wrist guards. “Protect your hands. Be careful not to fall.”

Rong Yi watched from the side as Xiao Yin changed into sneakers. In front of him, Xiao Yin slid down the slope in the backyard, stirring up a gust of wind and fallen leaves, and stopped steadily in front of him.

Super handsome, super cool.

Rong Yi clapped enthusiastically, and then he eagerly wanted to try standing on it himself.

The skateboard was too slippery, and Rong Yi realized that it wasn’t as simple as he thought when he stood on it. He could only wobble and hold onto Xiao Yin’s shoulders tightly, letting him slide with him.

He felt so happy.

It was a feeling he rarely experienced, complete relaxation and freedom, the warm breeze and the light from the lamps, with the sweet aroma of fried corn chips lingering in the air from the kitchen.

“I was thinking,” Xiao Yin held Rong Yi’s waist, gently stabilizing him, “If we study together, it will definitely be very happy.”

“That’s for sure.”

Rong Yi pondered for a moment and said, “I will definitely chase after you to play skateboarding together.”

“Then shall we go to the internet cafe together?” Xiao Yin laughed softly, “And then get into gaming, start competing in e-sports. We’ll be members of the original RS…”

“No, that’s not right,” Rong Yi corrected him, “With you around, the team would be VIT. RS Rising Stars wasn’t my idea, we just randomly came up with it back then.”

He started to worry again, “So, in that timeline, do we not have Xiao Mao, Xiao She, Brother Gu, and Shu Pian?”

Xiao Yin looked at him and laughed without making a sound. Gentle and affectionate.

“No, we still have them. After winning the championship, our Easy became the world’s strongest e-sports talent agency, and we could all gather together.”

“Three years later, when I’m 28 and you’re 25, the second team has already been established. Ci She and Hui Mao are the leaders of the new generation, and Brother Gu retired with us and joined the training team. They’re even busier than when we were competing.”

“Another busy ten years, and maybe our esports system at VIT has been established, and everyone will retire in their prime and enjoy leisurely activities.”

Xiao Yin didn’t finish speaking, and Rong Yi burst into laughter, saying, “Ya Ya said you have to inherit the family business when you’re 35, but she won’t.”

“I won’t inherit it either. Let my dad have another child.”

Rong Yi burst into another fit of laughter, laughing so hard that he slid off the skateboard below. Xiao Yin lifted him up and hugged him, then sat down on the steps with him in his arms.

They quietly nestled in each other’s embrace.

Autumn, falling leaves, evening breeze, everything that made today’s happiness, and from now on, every day will be even more intense happiness.

Because they will always be together, and they will always have a brilliant and radiant everything.

–The End–

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ry’s note: Finally, A Broken Mirror Reunited in an E-Sports is finished~ ˖°ღゝ◡╹)ノ♡

Thank you to all the readers who have patiently waited for updates and supported it. (ᗒᗨᗕ)

I hope you enjoy reading it. ♡ ～(‘▽^人)

See you in the next translation~ (⁀ᗢ⁀)

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Epilogue: After Winning the Championship (2)

Hearing him say that, Rong Yi instantly felt wide awake. He climbed out of his embrace, propped himself up on his shoulder, and stretched his neck to look outside.

Through the window on the other side, he caught a glimpse of the lawn and swimming pool outside.

When they moved in last night, Rong Yi vaguely remembered that the lawn and pool were still filled with fallen leaves. But now, they had all been cleaned up, and the pool had fresh water in it.

“Your home?” Rong Yi asked, “Which of the three burrows is it?”

Xiao Yin gently lowered him down again and replied, “It’s a house nearby where I lived during high school. I don’t come back often. My original plan was to take you directly to my parents’ place, but I thought you might not be mentally prepared and would feel a bit restrained, so I brought you here first.”

“But they already visited this morning. They will invite us for lunch tonight. Ci She will go back to their own homes tonight.”

Rong Yi nearly choked on his breath.

“You didn’t tell me in advance that it was the first time your family would visit, and I ended up sleeping until three in the afternoon…”

Xiao Yin remained composed, saying, “They knew it was the championship night yesterday, and everyone was tired, so they understand.”

Rong Yi jumped out of his embrace and stopped him from taking any action. He went to the wardrobe to pick out clothes, saying, “What should we do? The clothes we brought are all ordinary and not formal or nice-looking.”

Xiao Yin looked at him and smiled, “It’s not a problem. You look good in anything.”

“No, it won’t do.”

Rong Yi started to get nervous, his expression becoming serious. “It’s too casual. It would be impolite to go back like this.”

He glanced outside and began to give him instructions, “Go out now and buy me a few pieces of clothing.”

After Rong Yi finished speaking, he paused and thought for a moment. Perhaps he recalled Xiao Yin’s elegant and mesmerizing taste. He said, “I’ll sneak out the window to buy them.”

Xiao Yin finally realized that his plan had encountered a problem. He looked at Rong Yi, who was ready to climb out the window, and immediately reassured him, “I’ll go buy them, don’t worry. Our family dinner starts at 7:30, so you’ll have enough time to come downstairs by then.”

Then Xiao Yin quickly made a phone call to his assistant.

This time, the only assistant who accompanied them to the competition was Xiao Tang. The other two assistants were busy with the team’s affairs back in China, working overtime and feeling overwhelmed.

“Contact the nearest clothing stores immediately and have them deliver the unreleased new samples to my house. It has to be done right away. Exclude those that are too far away.”

After Xiao Yin said a few words, Xiao Tang on the other end of the line asked something. Xiao Yin replied, “Yes, choose for A Yi according to his previous sizes.”

Xiao Yin hung up the phone and saw Rong Yi staring at him. He reassured him, saying, “It’s okay. I’ll say that everyone in the team didn’t bring enough clothes, and the temperature dropped here, so I’m buying for everyone.”

Rong Yi leaned back on the bed, pulled the blanket over himself, and said, “You… are really domineering.”

Xiao Yin looked at him gently and politely, saying, “I’m sorry, I underestimated the situation. I just thought it would be a family gathering, but I forgot that you take these matters more seriously and responsibly than I do.”

As soon as he said that, Rong Yi no longer felt angry.

He murmured, “That’s right. It’s the first meeting. How can it be so casual? You also mentioned that although your parents are here, they still have some traditional values ingrained in them, so we should pay attention to these things.”

After finishing his words, Rong Yi jumped up again and exclaimed, “Gifts! I didn’t bring any gifts either!”

Xiao Yin came up with a solution in a hurry, saying, “After we change our clothes and go out, I’ll tell them that we’re going out to eat. We can buy the gifts while we’re out. Is that okay?”

Only then did Rong Yi breathe a sigh of relief.

Twenty minutes later, Xiao Tang knocked on their room door with eight or nine clothing boxes in her hands, taking heavy steps.

Rong Yi didn’t care much about the price of the clothes he wore, but they had to be presentable and dignified.

Rong Yi quickly picked out a high-necked, fitted thin sweater and matched it with a metallic casual jacket. He also changed into a nice pair of jeans and new boots, stepping up to try them on.

Not bad, presentable.

Rong Yi let out a half-sigh of relief.

After all the fuss, Xiao Yin’s earlier plans had completely lost their purpose.

Rong Yi tidied himself up and followed Xiao Yin downstairs.

Lei Ya and Xiao Yin’s mother were sitting in the living room.

Rong Yi had met Lei Ya before, so when she saw him coming down, she immediately greeted him warmly, “Hey! Sister-in-law, you’re awake! Congratulations on becoming world champions!”

Rong Yi accepted her enthusiastic embrace and then noticed Xiao Yin’s mother standing on the other side.

She was young and well-preserved, not showing her age, but emanating a mature gentleness and composure. She seemed more nervous than him and struggled to control her expression.

“Hello, A Yi, I’m Xiao Yin’s mother. You can call me Auntie Lei or Mom, whichever you prefer.”

Rong Yi smiled at her and said, “Hello, Auntie.”

She became more nervous as she spoke, her hands almost fidgeting. After a reminder from Lei Ya, she reluctantly relaxed a bit and said, “You must be hungry. Shall I make some breakfast for you? Pancakes and milk, would you like that?”

“Mom, I’ll take him out to eat,” Xiao Yin said, “You and my sister were planning to go shopping, right? You don’t need to worry about us until tonight.”

Mrs. Lei looked relieved and said, “Okay, okay, you take him out to eat.”

With that, Rong Yi looked back and was then led out by Xiao Yin, who held his hand. Once they were outside, Rong Yi whispered, “Why is your mom so nervous?”

“It’s the first meeting, so she’s naturally nervous. She’s more strict with me,” Xiao Yin replied.

Xiao Yin remembered what happened before and suddenly smiled, “I was afraid you wouldn’t like it here and would run away, and then I would go crazy.”

Rong Yi sat in the passenger seat and watched as Xiao Yin leaned over to fasten his seatbelt.

He seemed to have heard a key word.

“You went crazy before?”

“They were a bit overly concerned about me,” Xiao Yin said. “I wasn’t very healthy when I was young, so my family was a bit doting on me. They let me do whatever I wanted, but they wanted me to stay by their side.”

“Five years ago, I left the country, not to start QILIN here. The e-sports industry in both Country B and my home country was more developed, so I went there alone.”

Xiao Yin started the car and pulled it out of the garage, his tone calm. “They were scared because in Country A or at home, they could support me, but in other places, I couldn’t communicate, unfamiliar with the surroundings, and alone.”

He glanced at Rong Yi’s expression. “It’s not all because of you. I had to go this way myself. At least there are some things I can accomplish on my own.”

Rong Yi pondered for a while.

Such a typical wealthy young master drama.

He silently applauded.

Rong Yi thought for a moment and inserted himself into the conversation. “Then they probably don’t like me anymore, right? As a parent, I would also worry a lot about a child with your personality.”

“No.”

Xiao Yin smiled. “My sister has met you in person. She said if her brother’s personality could improve, she could only count on you. Because there’s no one else in the world who can control me and make me happy.”

Rong Yi pouted and blushed.

That’s just how Xiao Yin is—cold, indifferent, seemingly unattached to anything. When they were in the country, Rong Yi rarely saw him contact his family.

Indeed, it seemed like he had some inherent personality issues.

But he didn’t dare to say that.

“However, no matter what, you should still call your family on holidays and bring gifts when you go back home,” Rong Yi reminded him. “Your siblings are not with your parents either, so your mom and dad must also want their children to spend more time with them, right?”

He spoke seriously, which was particularly adorable.

His family wasn’t happy, but he turned out so well. He understood things, was responsible, and kind.

Xiao Yin nodded after listening. “Alright, I’ll listen to you.”

“I’ll listen to you from now on.”

With this statement, the atmosphere in the car instantly changed.

They were a new family and might spend the rest of their lives together. The feeling became strong, and both of their hearts started beating a bit faster.

Xiao Yin took him to eat Zhajiangmian and rolls. For a moment, Rong Yi felt like he was in his home country. Afterwards, they picked out some gifts to bring back home. Rong Yi used his own money to buy a gift for each member of Xiao’s family, and Xiao Yin also bought some snacks to bring back.

They didn’t spend much time, and an hour and a half later, they returned home. Then they took Xiao Yin’s mother and Xiao Yin to his home.

It was different from what Rong Yi had imagined—it wasn’t the exaggerated and magnificent castle…but it was still quite extravagant.

A very low-key mansion in a wealthy area, with excellent lighting and a huge yard. It took twenty minutes to drive around because there was a small lake and forest behind it.

There were supposedly skiing and horse riding facilities, but not here.

When they arrived at their own home, Xiao Yin’s mother’s expression had already become more natural. Perhaps she had adjusted her mindset, and now she sat with them on the sofa, eating fried chicken and chatting about family matters.

“A Yin’s eldest brother couldn’t make it back. He and his wife are too busy, and there was no flight available for them to come. But they sent their gifts through their younger sister and said they will definitely come for the wedding.”

“His father also arrived in the evening. Auntie is cooking at home.”

“How many weddings do you two plan to have?” Xiao Yin’s mother asked.

“Uh… well,” Rong Yi was caught off guard by the question.

He hadn’t planned any wedding. It couldn’t be done in the country, but it could be done abroad. It’s just that planning it would be too troublesome. After Xiao Yin proposed, Rong Yi automatically considered themselves married, and he didn’t really pay much attention to other ceremonies and processes.

Xiao Yin helped out, saying, “Let’s see how things go. We can discuss it later. Let’s eat first.”

At 7 p.m., Xiao’s father finally arrived, looking tired from his journey. It was said that he had just gotten off the plane and had a meeting before that.

The previous incident was like a bomb in their home, but Xiao Yin’s actions were even more audacious and faster than he had anticipated. Just as he was starting to calm down and accept it, Xiao Yin had actually brought Rong Yi home.

Rebellion! This must be rebellion!

Xiao’s father’s expression grew serious, filled with anger, as he pushed open the door… and then he saw Rong Yi sitting on the sofa, looking particularly elegant and obedient.

In the late autumn, the fireplace was burning brightly. Rong Yi sat beside Xiao Yin, holding hands, and talked with the mother and daughter on the other side about various experiences.

This child looks good, so beautiful. At first glance, it seemed like he was a graduate student picked up from some prestigious university. He didn’t emit any unpleasant vibes but instead exuded grace and composure.

Xiao’s father swallowed back his anger.

Upon seeing Xiao’s father return, Xiao’s mother stood up first and handed him a cup of hot tea. “Just got back? It’s snowing up north. Drink some ginger tea brought back by A Yi.”

Rong Yi also quickly stood up and slightly bowed to him. “Hello, Uncle. I’m Rong Yi, Xiao Yin’s boyfriend.”

“You… hello.”

Xiao’s father held back his words.

He has been in the business world for so many years, his judgment of people is sharp. Seeing the current situation, his face darkened, and he pointed at Xiao Yin, “Come with me.”

Xiao Yin stood up.

Others couldn’t figure out what was happening and looked at him with concern. Mrs. Lei’s expression was particularly bad—she remembered the vase that was smashed before, almost breaking his face. Even now, there was still a faint mark on his nose.

She said, “Now that A Yi is here, don’t cause trouble for me!”

She was scolding Xiao’s father.

Xiao’s father frowned and impatiently said, “What trouble am I causing? Can’t I have a chat with my son? Do I still have a place in this family?”

Mrs. Lei: “…………….”

Xiao Yin went to the private room first, and Xiao’s father followed, closing the door.

Xiao Yin pushed a chair for his biological father, saying, “Please have a seat. What’s the matter?”

Xiao’s father’s face was gloomy, and he took the initiative to speak, “Tell me the truth!”

Xiao’s father had a face that exuded authority, and his voice was loud. This sentence was as intimidating as thunder, enough to scare the pee out of an ordinary person.

Xiao Yin stood still and unmoved, “What is it that you want to know?”

“Did you obtain that child outside through inappropriate means?”

Xiao’s father sternly asked, “Did you coerce him, using our family’s status and power to threaten him, so that he would be willing to be with you?”

Xiao Yin: “…”

Xiao Yin: “.”

After a full three seconds, Xiao Yin finally made a move. He looked up and spoke calmly.

“It’s possible.”

“Our family is just wealthy, not a mafia (harmonized term).”

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Epilogue: After Winning the Championship (1)

Others looked at each other, then stood up, their expressions somewhat surreal.

Everyone maintained a certain level of composure, but Shu Pian, the only one who didn’t participate, jumped up and shouted, “Awesome!”

His exclamation broke the silence in the arena. Shu Pian leaped over and hugged Ci She, Hui Mao, and others, tears streaming down his face.

Although he didn’t play, the honor belonged to the entire team. He had been with VIT for a month and a half, undergoing individual training and team matches every day. The intensity of his training was no less than anyone else’s.

The referee opened the door to the training room for them. In an instant, cheers and screams from outside rushed in like a tidal wave, even drowning out the host’s words.

However, it was a long string of English, and Rong Yi couldn’t understand.

Players from both teams filed out, walking from opposite sides towards the stage.

Ci She, Hui Mao, Shu Pian, and Wu Dao Gu were ecstatic but trying to restrain themselves. It was their first time standing in the position of world champions. No matter how many rewards they had won in intercontinental competitions, championships, or individual tournaments, the championship was irreplaceable.

It was the proof of all their efforts, strength, and recognized glory and acknowledgment.

They quickened their pace and headed towards the stage!

On the other side, QILIN experienced missing the championship for the first time in many years. The newly promoted jungler suppressed his disappointment, but they still maintained respect for VIT. Everyone came forward politely to hug and congratulate them. English mixed with the commentary from the host and the booth echoed, while the live audience erupted in continuous cheers and revelry.

Only Rong Yi and Xiao Yin fell slightly behind, with Xiao Yin translating for him.

“The team that won the global championship this year is the VIT team from China, composed of…”

“This year, they will receive the World Champion Honor Trophy and Commemorative Trophy, inspired by the goddess Bastet. They will also receive the Championship Lineup Commemorative Skin for this season. Bastet symbolizes warmth, protection, and the fight against evil.”

“Leading them on the battlefield today is Li, with an average synergy rate exceeding 50%. He is the team’s bridge, the enemy’s ghost, and a checkpoint that must be overcome. He will become a milestone in the competition, a milestone for the mid-lane core. Perhaps from now on, mid-lane core teams will replace the previous peak and stand on the stage of history…”

“…”

Rong Yi chuckled softly and said, “It’s even more exaggerated than domestic matches.”

“Yes,” Xiao Yin replied, smiling at him.

Others approached them one by one. The entire QILIN team embraced Rong Yi, followed by everyone from VIT. Several children rushed over, forming a circle around Rong Yi, embracing him and cheering.

“Long live the captain!”

“Long live Rong Yi!”

“Li is the best! Long live the mid-lane core! Our world’s number one mid-laner!”

They lifted Rong Yi together, tossing him up in the air. Rong Yi felt weightless for a moment, dizzying, but quickly grabbed Xiao Yin’s hand to avoid falling.

After tossing him a few times, they lowered him down amidst cheers, applause, and joyful laughter. Rong Yi’s head was spinning as he landed, and Xiao Yin lifted him up again.

This time, he held Rong Yi by the waist.

Xiao Yin effortlessly lifted him off the ground, letting his feet leave the floor as they spun in place.

The screams from the audience turned into thunderous cheers. Even the host clapped and smiled like crazy.

“Easy! Y! Easy! Y!”

Everyone shouted their names, echoing through the sky.

When Rongy Yi was put down, his legs were weak, and he stumbled into Xiao Yin’s embrace. He lowered his head and leaned on Xiao Yin’s shoulder for a moment before looking up and smiling at him, giving him an open and genuine hug.

After the embrace, the two held each other’s hands.

The diamond rings on their ring fingers shimmered brightly.

The reason they never publicly displayed their relationship within the team was because they were concerned about the implications of a romantic relationship. If they lost, people would blame their relationship within the team.

The time they held hands at the airport was already the most daring display of affection they had in front of the cameras.

Now, they no longer had to worry about these things. Their relationship could be proudly shown to everyone.

The stage was illuminated by starlight, and despite the cool autumn weather, waves of heat surged.

VIT stood on the highest award podium.

After the competition, as a domestic team, VIT didn’t immediately return home.

One reason was to avoid the limelight; if they returned at this point, the airport would be packed. Coincidentally, the finals took place in the stronghold of a large number of fans. During the limited rest period that followed, they unanimously decided to take a vacation there.

On the night of their victory, none of them were able to sleep. On one hand, they were filled with excitement and exhilaration, and on the other hand, they were pulled by various media and interviews.

After the competition, they also recorded additional footage. After a chaotic flurry of activities, it was already morning.

The group of people was so exhausted that they fell asleep in the car.

Rong Yi was the last to be overwhelmed by drowsiness. Sitting in the backseat, he leaned against Ci She on one side and Hui Mao on the other, falling asleep with these two kids.

They stayed in a hotel near the arena, which was expiring today. Not a single person asked where they would stay tomorrow, and Rong Yi himself didn’t think to ask.

In his tiredness, he only felt that the driver had been driving for a very long time before finally arriving at a villa with fallen leaves in front of the courtyard.

Rong Yi thought it was an ordinary guesthouse. He couldn’t understand anything abroad and relied completely on Xiao Yin. He didn’t ask anything and only heard when Xiao Yin carried him out of the car, “Tomorrow, sleep until you wake up naturally, and then we’ll arrange activities.”

After that, he comfortably leaned against Xiao Yin’s arm and was carried into an unfamiliar room, placed into a soft bed.

The villa was a bit old, but very decent and clean. The air carried a refreshing scent of pine, and the bed sheets smelled of freshly washed laundry detergent.

It felt like home, cozy and comfortable.

Rong Yi woke up from his sleep and had no idea what time it was. His phone was charging far away on the table in the room; his luggage was already open, clothes neatly hung on hangers, and new toiletries were provided for him.

The bed beneath him was exceptionally soft, like a cloud, trembling with every movement.

For someone like Rong Yi with a bad back, he hadn’t slept on a soft bed in centuries. He felt so comfortable that he almost melted into it.

After a while, he finally got up, went into the bathroom to freshen up, and took a bath.

The exhaustion, tension, and excitement from yesterday were still vivid in his mind, and now it was a new day. VIT’s victory in the championship had finally relieved a great burden from his heart, and he felt much more relaxed. He even became a bit lazy.

He lazily freshened up, lazily took a bath, lazily came out to get dressed…

When he opened the bathroom door, he saw someone sitting on his bed. He paused for a moment when he saw him and then smiled.

“Fortunately, it’s you.”

Rong Yi raised an eyebrow. “Haven’t seen you.”

“I have.” Xiao Yin leaned back, “Who would have thought the team captain would come out without clothes.”

Rong Yi pouted.

“Come here.”

Xiao Yin’s voice was steady as he patted his own thigh. Rong Yi smoothly sat on his lap.

Xiao Yin held him in his embrace, letting him sit on his lap as he personally dressed him and put on his shoes and socks.

This was one of Xiao Yin’s newly developed peculiar hobbies.

He especially enjoyed changing Rong Yi’s clothes for him.

After a while, Xiao Yin said, “Uncomfortable, Little Captain, we have to go downstairs to meet people later.”

Rong Yi shrugged. “Then you can come downstairs an hour later.”

Xiao Yin raised his sharp phoenix eyes and glanced at him.

Rong Yi stuck out his tongue.

After winning the championship, Rong Yi became a bit… arrogant when he relaxed. He became a bit like his old self.

Especially cute.

Xiao Yin whispered, “… Makes sense.”

Rong Yi asked, “?”

Rong Yi was just chatting, and he said, “I haven’t eaten yet. I want to drink water. I want to order fried chicken and lemonade.”

Xiao Yin hesitated, which was rare. He paused for a moment, as if genuinely thinking.

Usually, at this point, he would ignore everything else and push him down first, ordering takeout midway. But today, he seemed to have some hesitation.

Xiao Yin whispered, “Should we go to a hotel outside? It’s not convenient at home, too many people.”

Rong Yi asked, “?”

Xiao Yin continued speaking, and although his tone was calm and steady, his speech speed began to quicken.

“Or a private cinema.”

“Or go to a place where no one goes. I can drive, it can be in the car.”

As Xiao Yin’s suggestions became more and more absurd, Rong Yi caught onto some key words. “Home?”

Xiao Yin nodded.

“This is my home.”

Seeing Rong Yi’s momentary confusion, Xiao Yin hesitated for a moment and added, “One of my homes.”

---

Extra Chapter: World Champion (6)

This is not QILIN’s only defeat in recent years, but it is the only one in this year’s global league.

VIT has lost a game to CH, while QILIN has fought its way to the highest finals with a series of victories. In a sense, the single elimination format of the league in recent years is also to add fuel to QILIN’s unstoppable momentum.

Countless people hoped to see them succeed all the way through. They have dominated the world championship for five years, almost creating an unshakable and mythical dynasty.

But now, they were defeated by a rookie team.

There is always someone better.

The 1-0 victory in the first round caught everyone off guard.

The coach and referees stood up, and both team captains called for a break and overtime. The halftime break lasted for twenty minutes.

In e-sports, the consumption of energy is extremely apparent in large-scale games, especially when strong players face each other. The high-frequency game of mental and reaction agility is no less demanding than burning a CPU.

In the training room, everyone took off their headphones. Instead of immediately getting up, they leaned back in their chairs, feeling dizzy.

No one spoke because they were exhausted. They had never encountered a game lasting over sixty minutes in training matches, even against high-defense operation-oriented teams like CH. They had never been this tired.

Xiao Yin stood up first and poured everyone a cup of sugared water. Everyone obediently drank it.

“How do you feel?” Xiao Yin asked softly, looking at Rong Yi.

The mid lane is the most stressful and demanding position in a normal game, and Rong Yi had managed to locate the enemy’s jungler several times, which was undoubtedly dangerous.

“It’s alright.” Rong Yi drank the cup of sugared water handed to him, moistened his lips, and said, “The intensity is rare, but I’ve gotten used to it.”

His extra practice every day was not just for fun. While others played for eight hours, he played for ten hours. When others played for ten hours, he played for twelve or even fourteen hours. This constant effort not only accumulated experience but also provided a dual enhancement to his mental and endurance.

“Don’t relax, don’t relax, everyone.” Rong Yi clapped his hands, and his voice made the others straighten their backs. “Let’s do a quick review.”

Everyone gathered around.

In fact, there wasn’t much to review. Everyone had played exceptionally well in this game, almost close to perfection.

Hui Mao could control the timing of each rewind without needing his guidance. Ci She didn’t need his command to inquire about lane swaps. In a real battlefield, excessive command is inefficient, only the repeated cooperation and instant reactions matter.

On one side, VIT was discussing in low voices, while on the other side, the QILIN members were clearly also discussing, although the atmospheres on both sides were somewhat different.

“The atmosphere within VIT is really stable. They seem to always be like this, not showing much change even after winning a game.”

“QILIN is stable too, but it seems their emotions are indeed not high… but who could be in high spirits in this situation!”

The commentators also chimed in, “Losing the first game is indeed a big blow. Now we’ll see if QILIN can make a comeback and enter the final game. Also, whether both teams will have any new preparations.”

“To be honest, VIT was restricted in the previous draft. Both teams are adaptable as second-pick teams, but they drew the first pick, which resulted in being banned out and Hide being taken away.”

“That’s the key to QILIN being able to focus on the mid lane. Let’s take a look at the solo laner’s performance in the previous game, 1-5. Whenever Yin and Huibai Zhi Zhu teamed up, there was not a single instance of survival.”

“Of course, the pick of Yin by the enemy can be said to be ‘If Hide wins, it’s Xiao He. If Hide loses, it’s still Xiao He.‘ With Yin, the pressure on Easy’s side was immense, to the point that it took an hour before the first significant advantage was gained. But at the same time, it was also because VIT knew Hide so well that they picked Silver Hook to counter him.”

“Yes, indeed. Furthermore, the jungler was Brother Y, who created numerous vision disruptions, preventing QILIN from flying recklessly.”

“We can only say that both teams have brought out their highest-level strategies and gameplay. The League World Championship feels incredibly honored and proud to have such teams.”

The second game started quickly!

During the brief review, the twenty minutes passed like flowing water.

In the VIT training room, the same style of reviewing as usual made everyone temporarily forget about the score and immerse themselves in the discussion.

The second round did not involve a position draw. In the first round, QILIN banned first, and VIT chose first; in the second round, the roles were reversed.

The first ban was in Rong Yi’s hands.

The commentators and audience started discussing.

On the screen, Rong Yi tilted his head slightly and whispered something to Xiao Yin next to him. Both of them leaned towards each other, but there was no intimacy in the atmosphere, only trust and solemnity as they fought together.

Everyone saw that Rong Yi left the pre-selected ban slot for Aphelios.

However, with three seconds remaining in the countdown, Rong Yi still hadn’t made a decision.

“No decision yet?”

The commentators looked at each other. “Or is there going to be an unexpected ban switch?”

The countdown reached three seconds.

Three…

Two…

One…

The countdown ended, but Rong Yi hadn’t made a decision, leaving the ban slot empty.

VIT left one ban slot!

The atmosphere on the field was quickly ignited once again.

“Leaving one ban slot to force QILIN’s picks! VIT has been making extreme one-for-one swaps since the drafting phase!”

The commentators exclaimed excitedly, almost pounding the table.

In the World Championship, heroes cannot be selected again, which means that the heroes used by both teams in the previous game cannot be used again.

This is an interesting point in the drafting game.

In this season, the powerful heroes that could determine the outcome in their hands, QILIN can no longer pick the ones that fit their usual playstyle, such as Yin. They are left with Jungle Di and AD Mofa.

VIT, on the other hand, cannot pick Silver Hook, Di, and Princess. They are left with Li and Yin.

Although VIT used up more heroes, the remaining ones are the strong heroes for their core positions.

On the other hand, QILIN must secure their super core, the bottom lane Mofa.

QILIN’s Mofa is too terrifying. VIT already banned it in the previous game, and according to the rule that heroes cannot be banned repeatedly in the league, they cannot ban it again.

VIT is now banning first, no matter who they ban, the enemy can still pick Mofa, and then use the pick to replace the ban and take away one of VIT’s strong heroes because QILIN’s Jungle Di, theoretically, will definitely be banned.

But now VIT leaves one ban slot, which is forcing QILIN to make a choice:

Do they pick one of their strong heroes and one of the enemy’s strong heroes or do they pick all their own?

The playstyle that Di and Mofa can bring out is different from what other jungle heroes can bring out.

One has high burst damage, while the other has high AoE damage. It’s basically grenades and explosions in the jungle. A hurricane sweeps through, leaving nothing behind.

This is a great temptation.

Picking all their own heroes means using a different strategy, no longer targeting VIT’s composition but using their most stable and honorable bot-focused playstyle.

It also means completely giving freedom to VIT, allowing them to pick their most proficient core composition with Li in the mid lane.

Ten seconds passed.

The enemy picked Mofa, and the second floor picked Di!

QILIN regained their playstyle!

Almost at the same time, VIT opened up their picks.

Without any hesitation, Rong Yi picked Li, and the second floor, Ci She, helped lock in Yin! At the same time, QILIN banned two strong bot lane heroes.

They are playing as a bot-focused team and want to dominate from the bot lane.

They directly limit the bot lane.

VIT used their last two bans on the mid lane and top lane.

Both sides confidently picked their strongest lineups.

There is no room for counterpicks, no specific counters, just the most confident and proficient compositions from both sides.

This is a true clash of titans, a match at the highest level.

The final answer they have been pursuing this season will be revealed in this game.

Thirty seconds into the game, both teams showed extreme coordination.

Just like in the previous game where Ci She was completely restricted, QILIN’s mid laner in this game is also completely restricted. Both sides are sacrificing one aspect of their composition.

In the previous game, both teams focused on the mid lane and fought for vision control, but this time, both sides scattered.

In the first wave, Mofa straightforwardly started farming in the mid lane. At the same time, Jungle Di took control of the jungle vision, boldly entering Xiao Yin’s blue area within his vision range.

In the early game, Di combined with Mofa is almost invincible.

VIT has no intention of forcing team fights. Rong Yi directly lets go of the mid lane minions and goes to the bot lane with Ci She to farm minions. Xiao Yin doesn’t take the risk of entering the enemy’s top jungle, he chooses to take our bot jungle red buff, adapting to the situation.

VIT cannot engage in team fights and should avoid them as much as possible.

The commentators continued to follow the game.

“Where is the dominance of QILIN’s jungle core? Developed by Xiao Yin, Hide’s ultimate flies up, and the rest of the team follows. This is a team fight that you have to engage in even if you don’t want to. It’s unimaginably fast and incredibly dominant.”

“Of course, now that Xiao Yin has left, QILIN is still primarily focused on the jungle core, and their bot lane ADC Mofa is showing his true strength. Even though they are a jungle-focused team, their bot lane synergy is incredibly fast. They basically clear the bot jungle in the early game, and when they both hit their power spikes in the late game, their damage explodes. You absolutely can’t catch up with their pace of development.”

“No team can avoid being at a disadvantage against QILIN.”

VIT is feeling the same.

It is difficult to decipher the violent tactics of the high damage and high mobility duo of VIT’s bot lane: Li and Yin. They are like gears, gears that need to mesh tightly, cooperate at any time, like a machine.

Now, it’s like a heavy hammer pounding on the machine.

QILIN’s mid lane is at a disadvantage. Rong Yi is controlling the lane tightly, and the opponents’ attempts to engage have been unsuccessful. They now turn to focus on the top lane.

Wu Dao Gu’s conventional hero in this game doesn’t have strong mobility, he can’t escape. In order to defend this tower, he risked using his skills before leveling up his ultimate to clear the minions.

QILIN’s plan to clear out all the champions and the tower failed, but VIT’s blue area was completely lost.

In just twelve minutes, QILIN’s economy is already three thousand gold ahead of VIT.

“VIT is facing headwinds!”

“In the previous game, it was a hard-fought battle that lasted for sixty minutes. Could it be just a coincidence? This game, QILIN is showing an overwhelming force!”

“Ci She is at a significant disadvantage in the bottom lane matchup. Mofa’s economy is far ahead of him, and with support vision positioning, it’s hard for him to have a sense of control in the lane without vision. He can’t know where Mofa is.”

But just as the commentators spoke, Rong Yi and Xiao Yin made their move!

Xiao Yin took the initiative, diving into the tower and instantly taking down the support with one strike. Rong Yi had already moved from the river and joined in, together they eliminated the support in the tower!

QILIN initiated a strong move, and Rong Yi and Xiao Yin also made a decisive play.

In the QILIN’s footage, the jungle Di, who lost the high ground in the previous game, frowned at first, but his actions were ahead of his awareness. He and Mofa hurried to the bottom lane.

There were fewer people in the bottom lane, but VIT couldn’t gain an advantage either. QILIN’s wave control level was top-notch. When Mofa was present, he would farm, and when he wasn’t, the support controlled the wave. They completely held back Ci She in this lane.

Their support pick is Rainy Night Hunter, also a damage-oriented support, so clearing waves is not a problem.

Rong Yi and Xiao Yin retreated.

Seeing that no one was present, Mofa waited for the minions in the bottom lane while guarding their blue area, calmly clearing the blue buff.

After Di finished scouting the vision in the bottom lane and returned, he wanted to take VIT’s red buff, but something felt off.

Xiao Yin had actually taken this red buff.

Xiao Yin had just been in a closer position to them, taking the red buff would provide him with health recovery and a buff, allowing him to switch lanes directly. But for some reason, Xiao Yin passed by this buff.

According to VIT’s risk-reward style, this situation couldn’t happen. They had already killed someone in the bottom lane, so they must seize resources.

One can only believe that Xiao Yin misjudged their vision and position.

It seemed unrealistic, but they couldn’t figure out the reason for now.

Xiao Yin misjudging his position? How is that possible?

“Xiao Yin is taking a huge risk. He was just in the closest position to Di, and he’s only at half health.”

The commentator was also taken aback by this unconventional choice. “From the choices, we can’t see Y’s intention for now. The best choice would be to directly take the enemy’s blue buff since it would take Mofa longer to arrive.”

Then, Xiao Yin started jungling in a very strange order in the jungle.

Usually, junglers have a stable plan for their jungle routes, considering lane swaps and speed of support. Going top is convenient for supporting the top lane, going bottom is convenient for supporting the bottom lane, and squatting near the double buffs is to control the middle vision and dragon area vision.

But Xiao Yin only took the blue buff and not the red buff. In an absolutely safe situation, he arrived at the enemy’s red area, only taking two small jungle monsters before retreating.

“Not taking the red buff but clearing the rest, what does it mean?”

Everyone in the audience started discussing in hushed voices. “The red buff provides a significant bonus for Yin.”

Soon, the audience learned why.

After Xiao Yin left, Di and Mofa pressured Ci She and forced him to retreat. They then took the dragon and entered the second phase of the global dragon buff, retreating to clear the jungle.

Due to the dragon being contested, all members of VIT showed up to clear the waves.

Xiao Yin appeared in the top lane.

Di and Mofa didn’t hesitate to approach the top lane; splitting into two paths, with Di slightly moving forward to scout the vision. VIT’s blue area had been completely cleared, but they still had a red buff in their own jungle.

After clearing the red buff, they initiated a strong move!

At the same time, Rong Yi left his position and went to the enemy’s blue area, taking their blue buff before rotating to the bottom lane with Ci She, who had just finished his recall, to forcefully engage the bottom lane support!

“Both sides are engaging forcefully! The top lane, Yin barely escaped with his ultimate, but Wu Dao Gu falls again– but the top lane minions were cleared! The bottom lane, Rainy Night Hunter can’t withstand the combined assault of an ADC and support! Hunter falls!”

“But there are still minions in the bottom lane! Hunter failed to clear the last minion–“

Fifteen minutes in, VIT’s first tower was taken down.

On the QILIN side, the jungle’s expression changed, and he muttered, “There’s a problem. Let’s see if we can–“

Change tactics? It’s already been fifteen minutes, what else can they change?

That familiar feeling surged again.

The feeling of not being able to make it back in time.

They still didn’t know that VIT was intentionally controlling the blue buff globally. As long as it respawned, Rong Yi or Xiao Yin would immediately take it.

They didn’t contest the dragon or the red buff.

By keeping the two red buffs, they also constrained their opponents’ routes–

“To dominate the jungle core and invade the jungle area, we have to aggressively seize resources.”

“To aggressively seize resources, let’s make them eat.”

Ten minutes ago, inside the game room, Rong Yi’s clear and melodious voice said, “Their anti-jungle composition is not easy to deal with, but we can still hold onto both blues.”

“As long as they keep fighting, they have to take both red buffs and keep rotating between the top jungle and bottom jungle.”

“This also means that they can only group up in either the top lane or the bottom lane. In the meantime, they have to rush the longest route.”

“The significance of the mid-core lies in its synergy.”

“I can control both blue buffs alone, I can roam between top and bottom alone, something no other core can do.”

“They are strong, strong in opening fights, strong in catching opponents off guard, but they won’t realize that their jungle route is within our plan.”

“They open fights in the top lane, I open fights in the bottom lane. They take the dragon, we take resources and control the lanes. Once Y and I get ahead with our picks, no one can stop us.”

“The synergy between jungle and AD is not as efficient as the synergy between jungle and mid. It’s determined by the routes, not anything else.”

This sentence finalized everything, it was their chosen configuration, the unwavering answer.

They firmly believed that this was the answer in the current patch.

As long as Princess and Mofa reached their peak, the bottom core would reach its peak. If Yin and Di were dominant, the jungle core would occupy its central position for as long as they did.

Only the mid-core hadn’t been attempted by anyone, only taking Li, this unpopular hero, as the mid-core, had never happened before.

“Let’s go.”

The third team fight erupted. Rong Yi stared at the screen.

QILIN already felt that something was wrong—their gold difference was shrinking, they had lost one bottom tower, and their jungler hadn’t been able to secure the blue buff the whole time.

Di was a hero that needed blue. They were being controlled by their opponents.

Realizing that something was wrong, they immediately adjusted their tactics!

After a brief pause, QILIN started to scout Rong Yi’s vision and movements as a team. They halted their steps and migrated to the bottom lane, which also entered a defensive mode, alert for Rong Yi’s arrival.

“Let’s bet, am I going top or bottom,” Rong Yi whispered, “50-50.”

For the first time, QILIN guessed correctly. Mofa urgently returned to the bottom lane, no longer following Di to engage at any moment, while the support constantly roamed, vigilant for Rong Yi’s arrival.

But it was futile.

“This is actually a flaw in their composition. They want to invade the jungle, so they can only choose a support who can deal damage in the bottom lane, essentially having two mages.”

“They gave up a support position themselves. Even if they picked the Key of Memories, this game wouldn’t have been so difficult.”

The pressure in the jungle decreased, and Xiao Yin didn’t hesitate to aggressively engage—targeting Di!

Rong Yi had just finished clearing the mid lane and immediately rushed back.

They were waiting for this opportunity!

The chance to split and surround.

Even though Di had an economic lead of three to four thousand over them, when the two of them converged, Xiao Yin and Rong Yi, with low health, pinned Di down in place.

The outside world was buzzing with discussion.

“It was almost a double kill.”

“They would have gotten a double kill if they had mana. Unfortunately, they never had mana because VIT always controlled the blue.”

In reality, there weren’t as many “almosts.”

Every single “almost” that VIT had displayed so far was meticulously planned. Every “almost” on the battlefield was due to a difference in strength.

With a player down and a tactical gap, VIT completely regained the initiative.

Xiao Yin immediately started the Baron Nashor, while at the same time, Rong Yi went to steal the enemy blue buff and blocked the river, guarding against Mofa who wanted to contest the Baron.

Mofa knew where Rong Yi was— the blue buff had disappeared again, the enemy mid-laner was free.

After a moment of hesitation, Mofa returned to the tower and cleared minions, waiting for Di to respawn.

This wave lasted less than ten seconds, but for QILIN, it was a snowball effect. Mofa was still hovering near the tower, hoping for a comeback, but VIT didn’t give them that chance.

The fourth team fight, a strong opening!

Xiao Yin dove under the tower, followed by Rong Yi, and Hui Mao flashed in to join them. The three of them instantly killed Mofa.

“This is a huge mistake. He didn’t mentally prepare himself to be aggressively engaged.”

The commentator spoke, “But if Yin isn’t there, who should they engage? This is actually a common flaw for teams in a favorable situation.”

The bottom core was reduced again.

In fact, at this point, there was no way to turn it around.

Or rather, even earlier, when Di first realized he “couldn’t make it back,” when he noticed that Xiao Yin didn’t take that red buff, they were already helpless.

“Something’s wrong” is the most frightening, it means you have fallen into the enemy’s rhythm without even realizing it.

This match ended in just 32 minutes.

Only the players inside the game understood what they had experienced—while the spectators could only watch in confusion, witnessing QILIN suddenly collapse, making consecutive mistakes, without anyone understanding why.

QILIN didn’t lose in tactics and technique but in strategy.

When the victory screen appeared, except for Rong Yi and Xiao Yin, VIT didn’t move.

Xiao Yin took off his headphones and stretched his fingers. Rong Yi also took off his headphones and took a sip of water.

The others still had serious expressions as they looked at the screen. The settlement page appeared, and everyone’s statistics were clearly displayed.

“Still dreaming?”

Rong Yi clapped his hands and placed the plastic cup on the table, looking over with a smile, “The match is over, world champions.”

---

Extra Chapter: World Tournament (5)

The discussion online was already boiling as the first round began.

They had never seen such a lineup and match, but they could faintly feel that both teams were going all out.

“I have a feeling that this will be an incomprehensible match for us.”

“The changes made by QILIN and VIT in crucial positions must be based on a review of the last game in the Asian regional tournament and the domestic tournament in China.”

The commentator’s insightful analysis was constantly updated, “But the subtle changes they made also determine that the decision won’t be as simple as replicating that game.”

“The CH team from China has obviously provided QILIN with some new ideas.”

The match begins!

The opposing ADC is Huo Shen, slightly weaker in damage output but highly mobile. As for Chun Shen, there’s no need to mention, they are a high-mobility hero.

At the start of the first round, neither side went to their respective lanes.

Both sides, all five members, directly converged in the mid lane!

“Contesting vision in the mid lane!” It was a surprise to everyone, even the commentators, that both teams had such equal anticipation and synchronization. “Without hesitation! Both teams are accelerating towards the mid lane to contest for the first mid-lane advantage!”

Rong Yi took the initiative, approaching the river bush with Swift Wind, and the movements of the opposing five players appeared before him as if magnified with precision.

With Silver Hook, he could fire a shot as soon as he spawned and move while shooting. It provided a 0.2-second acceleration effect and a 1-second deceleration movement effect.

He arrived at the bush first, and in his field of vision, the opposing mid-laner, a lone wanderer, appeared lonely under the tower, with support Chun Shen probing in the other bush.

Only the viewers with an omniscient perspective knew that although it seemed like there was only Rong Yi on that side, the entire five-member team was ambushing from behind.

On the other side, it seemed like there was only one Huibai Zhi Zhu and one Chun Shen, a conventional mid-laner and support opening up vision, but in reality, the other players could also strike at any moment.

The positioning of Huibai Zhi Zhu and Chun Shen was extremely cautious, almost always blocking each other’s movements. They were well aware of the control effect of Silver Hook, which meant that no matter what, they should never try to touch the mid-laner even for a moment.

In the end, Rong Yi hooked first, nailing Chun Shen with a single shot!

An intense battle broke out immediately. Rong Yi approached the enemy defense tower, and the feeling of slowing down and pulling surged after his skills hit. Without hesitation, QILIN, with Rong Yi taking the lead, started attacking directly!

But at the same time, Rong Yi flashed and canceled his skills, bypassing Chun Shen and nailing the Huibai Zhi Zhu, dragging him back!

The other four members of VIT also rushed forward. Huibai Zhi Zhu was pinned in Rong Yi’s direction, and without hesitation, he flashed directly to create distance. At the same time, Rong Yi was reduced to only one-third of his health by the remaining three members of QILIN.

Rong Yi no longer had flash in his hand; he headed straight for his own jungle without looking back.

He knew he couldn’t escape; this first blood had to be paid at a cost.

Sure enough, after taking a few steps, the enemy’s Yin player audaciously crossed over and took him down!

Hui Mao’s recall skill was of no use to Rong Yi. It had little utility.

Meanwhile, the second kill occurred: Chun Shen was pressed to death by the remaining members of VIT under the tower. At the same time, Xiao Yin’s Di safely took the enemy blue buff and retreated to her own position to farm the jungle.

“The first blood is drawn! The first team fight occurs in just seven seconds into the match.”

The commentator rewound the replay. In the domestic broadcasting team, Lin Yi was still doing the commentary.

“QILIN is being extremely cautious. Chun Shen wanted to completely trap Huibai Zhi Zhu behind him, not letting Silver Hook latch on, but Rong Yi used Flash to exchange for this opportunity to initiate a team fight and gain subsequent vision. His goal was very clear; he wanted to hit the enemy mid-laner.”

“The support can be sacrificed, but if the mid-laner gets hit, the other several players won’t be able to hide anymore. Behind Rong Yi are Ci She and Wu Dao Gu; with the initial bloodlust from Princess and Wu Dao Gu’s ability to immobilize, Huibai Zhi Zhu would die if he didn’t use Flash. That’s why we see Huibai Zhi Zhu from QILIN didn’t hesitate at all and directly flashed away.”

“Next, QILIN included Rong Yi, and VIT knew that Rong Yi wouldn’t survive, so Xiao Yin directly shifted her attention, dashing into QILIN’s jungle, taking away a blue buff. At the same time, we see Ci She and Hui Mao firmly holding their positions in the mid-lane vision.”

“In this mid-lane team fight, VIT successfully secured vision. Of course, they paid the price of the first blood bonus and Rong Yi’s death.”

“And QILIN, they lost their support, the mid-laner flashed, and also lost a blue buff.”

“It can be said that every detail on both sides was extremely precise, and both sides achieved their tactical intentions.”

“We are familiar with VIT; they rarely engage in such clear and aggressive early-game vision control. At the same time, QILIN’s playstyle is also unusual. They often choose counter-jungling this season, but today’s early game and Ci She’s aggressive pursuit can be understood as…”

Lin Yi paused, synchronizing with the foreign commentator.

“QILIN wants to focus on the mid-lane.”

No one else has achieved it this season, and no one dared to attempt it, to the point of giving up on that tactic.

Others couldn’t catch VIT’s mid-laner, but they could.

Others would abandon certain tactics and strategies, but they wouldn’t.

That’s the confidence and courage of a three-time consecutive world champion team.

“No matter what, Easy is a player we must shut down.” The foreign commentator gave an immediate analysis, “His dominance in the mid-lane is terrifying, and his reaction speed and decision-making far surpass everyone’s imagination.”

“We rarely see players with such reaction speed. When QILIN’s mid-lane support failed to react, he had already used Flash at the cost of securing a victory. This level of reaction and execution is quite terrifying.”

“So here, it’s hard to say it was a mistake on QILIN’s part, but rather that Easy’s Silver Hook was unconventional. Easy, as a player, is unexpected.”

As the battle progressed, the tactical intentions of both sides gradually became apparent.

During Rong Yi’s resurrection time, everyone returned to their respective positions. Hui Mao followed Xiao Yin and guarded their own jungle.

They didn’t choose to invade the enemy jungle because they couldn’t locate Yin. From the bird’s eye view, Yin was constantly moving and lurking around the boundaries of both jungles while denying VIT’s vision of available resources.

“The enemy Yin is going to make a move.”

Everyone on VIT saw the insane amount of gold coins jumping on the panel.

Moreover, the numbers were fluctuating in a strange manner, not consistent with normal lane farming or jungle income. It was an unpredictable pattern of numbers.

“Counter prediction.”

Rong Yi said, “During the gold calculation phase, they split the required equipment into several small items, potions, and true sight, making it impossible for us to determine their approximate location based on the amount of gold. QILIN is truly impressive.”

This statement was a genuine compliment.

In Rong Yi’s understanding, teams at the top of the world should possess this level of skill and quality, not just tactics but the best habits.

The significance of these habits lies in their ability to determine life or death in crucial moments. For example, the jungler always using Smite as the last hit, or the core AD Carry never face-checking brushes. It sounds simple but is actually difficult to achieve.

Humans and machines are different; humans have their own habits and choices.

VIT closely resembles machines, thus they can understand another team that also resembles machines.

Before QILIN, they had never faced opponents of such caliber.

“But…”

Rong Yi said, “They are in the mid lane. Time and position are uncertain.”

Xiao Yin nodded lightly.

“The mage’s gold income is slow, and the enemy jungler is constantly moving between the mid and jungle, coordinating and lurking. He is taking resources from him.”

“Help in the mid lane?” Hui Mao asked.

“No help in mid lane.” Xiao Yin answered on behalf of Rong Yi, firmly stating, “We will push the bottom lane first.”

As he finished speaking, Rong Yi arrived in the lane.

The enemy mid-laner and jungler were mysterious, but after a moment of contemplation, Rong Yi hooked towards their own blue buff without vision, pulling it out of the aggro range.

Rong Yi couldn’t see the location or health of the buff, but only the audience knew that QILIN’s jungler, Yin, was there taking the blue buff.

With this hook, Rong Yi disrupted the blue buff that was about to be secured, wasting four seconds of Yin’s time.

His plan was clear. Yin hadn’t jumped in seconds, so he was probably taking the double buffs. With four possible positions, Rong Yi randomly hooked one that could be scouted, and based on whether he shot his gun, they could judge the enemy’s movements.

The audience was on the verge of exploding.

“He knows? He knows where Yin is? What kind of perspective is this? Are they going to team fight?”

Meanwhile, Yin remained stationary.

After a few seconds, no one came, and Yin confirmed: Rong Yi didn’t have vision of him.

But he couldn’t continue like this either.

Rong Yi’s buff-stealing action was a clear warning—Silver Hook could scout him at any time. If he took the blue buff and Rong Yi revealed himself again, it would mean selling his own vision.

Yin left the blue area and lurked in the closest bush to Rong Yi’s tower.

The audience watching was covered in cold sweat.

It was too thrilling.

Both sides were absolutely rational and composed.

Rong Yi’s unpredictable hook was godlike, and Yin’s ability to guess that Rong Yi actually didn’t have vision of him was also godlike.

This was the clash of top players.

To gain vision, you have to pay a price.

Another wave of minions arrived, and Rong Yi farmed under the tower. But QILIN had already taken action.

This was a crucial moment. Everyone was level 4, but Rong Yi and Chun Shen hadn’t reached that level yet.

A small team fight erupted almost simultaneously!

In the bottom lane, Xiao Yin and Ci She directly targeted ADC Huo Shen, while in the mid lane, Huibai Zhi Zhu and Yin dove under the tower and killed Rong Yi!

As Princess bathed in blood, Huo Shen was already dead on the spot. Chun Shen didn’t level up and couldn’t save him, and he himself couldn’t escape death.

In the bottom lane, Xiao Yin scored a double kill!

Rong Yi reacted extremely quickly. Huibai Zhi Zhu had strong crowd control, and Yin could cut off his escape route. There was no way for him to survive once surrounded.

So, before dying, he did everything he could.

His Flash was already available. Rong Yi chose the tactic that would prolong the time the most. Instead of retreating to the safety of their own vision, as is usual when surrounded, he instead took the initiative, moved forward, and left the range of the mid tower. On the frontlines of the mid lane battlefield, he forced a one-on-one confrontation with Huibai Zhi Zhu!

One of Yin’s strengths was his long-range ultimate, which meant that his assassination potential was stronger than his sustained damage.

With Rong Yi’s move, he completely left Yin’s vision range—even though Rong Yi had no idea that there was a bush behind him.

Once Rong Yi took a step forward, he completely moved out of the hidden field of view, even though Rong Yi had no idea that there was someone hiding in the grass behind him.

With very low economy, Rong Yi used three Silver Hooks and one pull to engage in a mutual control with the wanderer. Xiao Yin left the bottom lane, and Ci She continued to take resources and push towers. Wu Dao Gu hid in the top lane and rushed towards the mid lane.

There was no more time. VIT forced Rong Yi to reveal himself, putting his life on the line.

As Rong Yi appeared, his first ultimate accurately hit Rong Yi, who was already under control, taking down the second kill. At the same time, Wu Dao Gu caught up, and Xiao Yin caught up too. QILIN couldn’t fight back and had to retreat as soon as possible.

Rong Yi died once again, but he also defended VIT’s vision hub.

From the audience’s perspective, this was a battle that was completely difficult to understand and comprehend. People died, yet it seemed like the outcome of the battle did not change. The team fight occurred, yet it appeared that neither side was defeated.

So far, VIT and QILIN have not determined a winner, and the overall economic difference remained within 100.

And the game had already reached the fifteenth minute.

No one was falling behind.

In this pinnacle showdown, in a way, they were competing in terms of mental strength and physical fitness. Both teams were perfect, and it could only be observed which side would lose composure or endurance first.

At the twentieth minute, Huibai Zhi Zhu and Yin once again converged on the mid lane.

“A very, very clear intent to catch Rong Yi, I don’t think anyone needs to explain it.”

Outside the game, the commentators were sweating in their palms. “They are intensely focusing on Easy and directly targeting Rong Yi with two top-tier C-tier players.”

“VIT gave up this lane, and the Key of Memories is not a protective hero. Xiao Yin and the princess pushed aggressively in the bottom lane, breaking through and pushing towers.”

In the World Championship, most teams focused on playing it safe, and such intense confrontations were rarely seen.

Rong Yi died for the third time, and at the same time, VIT’s mid-lane tower was destroyed halfway, and Ci She pushed down a tower in the bottom lane.

There were two obvious players who had become fed on both sides: one was the enemy’s Huibai Zhi Zhu, who had already killed Rong Yi three times, and the mid-lane resources were all taken by the Huibai Zhi Zhu.

The other was the princess of Ci She, whose damage was gradually becoming significant.

This was a critical point.

QILIN catching Huibai Zhi Zhu did not mean they could allow the princess of Ci She to grow rapidly. Huibai Zhi Zhu’s long-range ultimate was precisely used in this situation. At the twenty-third minute, the princess’s state was only half left. Huibai Zhi Zhu directly dashed past the tower, landing near the princess, narrowly missing the successful assassination.

With the help of the Key of Memories, Ci She survived Huibai Zhi Zhu’s first attack, but his health bar was almost depleted. Huibai Zhi Zhu’s ultimate effect had already activated, and the second attack was imminent. Everyone believed that Ci She couldn’t escape death.

A heavy gunshot, a shining silver hook came through the air, tightly entangling the enemy’s wanderer!!!

Rong Yi chuckled in the microphone.

“Come, come kill me.”

“You focus on me, and I’ll focus on you.”

Taking down Huibai Zhi Zhu in front of him and Xiao Yin was a display of confidence and also a gamble.

With a broken leg, Huibai Zhi Zhu, along with the BLD effect, was no different from being trapped in a quagmire.

“Didn’t expect that, did you?” Rong Yi whistled cheerfully.

Ci She managed to escape.

For the fourth time, Rong Yi was killed, with a score of 0-4, causing chaos in the footsteps of Huibai Zhi Zhu.

He could know the approximate location of Ci She, but he couldn’t retreat entirely—Xiao Yin had already revealed a clear line of sight from the mid-lane downwards.

This was true vision, and it was deliberately exposed to him.

It only meant two things: if he dared to dive Ci She, he had to know that he couldn’t escape alive.

If he dared to dive Ci She, all the resources radiating from the mid-lane upwards would belong to him.

The enemy’s Huibai Zhi Zhu chose to retreat.

This was another negotiation and game of wits that occurred countless times in the game.

The commentators and the analysts who were live-streaming the game were sweating.

The first game had been dragged on for so long, exceeding everyone’s expectations and breaking QILIN’s own record for game duration in the World Championship.

The game itself was extensive, and it was not uncommon for a match to last for sixty minutes. The longest match in league history lasted ninety minutes, followed by seventy minutes.

For professional teams, playing a game for sixty minutes was already very rare. Under the high-density resource exchanges and tactical collisions, from levels to map resources, it would eventually approach the enemy’s 100.

And in this game, it had already been forty minutes, and both sides were still tightly locked in combat.

Rong Yi had been continuously targeted, and the mid-lane synergy was tightly controlled. QILIN began adopting an avoidance strategy in the bottom lane, while the jungler relinquished some resources to the ADC.

The princess’s late-game power spike was approaching, and the advantageous period was about to end. Their choice to avoid fighting at this crucial moment was also to control Ci She.

Even the fans who were usually biased couldn’t help but admit while watching the entire game that Rong Yi had been fighting 1v2 from the beginning against world-class mid-lane and jungler players.

He wasn’t just passively getting beaten; he was a blade that would rather break than retreat. It was either you die or I live. When two people targeted him, he used all his strength to exchange for the enemy’s vision and secure the jungle resources. And if the enemy’s mid-lane or jungler wanted to leave, he would bite onto them tightly with relentless aggression.

At the thirty-seventh minute and the fifty-fourth minute, QILIN’s jungle and mid-lane attempted two flanking attacks on the bottom lane, but Rong Yi interrupted and exposed them.

He was like a determined and unwavering target, a ruthless and unparalleled killer.

“He’s looking for the invisible! He’s looking for the invisible!”

“Easy’s partner is currently the most formidable invisible player, and Easy knows very well how to counter invisibility! The blind effect of the invisible is disadvantageous against Silver Hooks! The flying spear can reveal the vision, while the Silver Hooks can stay outside the realm of invisibility!”

The arena erupted with screams.

As the game progressed to the sixtieth minute, QILIN finally made an obvious mistake.

At sixty minutes, when everyone’s equipment was fully formed, the importance of buffs and dragons became even more crucial than in the early game.

The invisible player was spotted in the blue area by Rong Yi, with Huibai Zhi Zhu not far away. The invisible player decisively engaged, and Rong Yi used his swift Wind to pull him back.

Unnoticed, the invisible player had ventured too deep into the blue area, and Rong Yi immediately counterattacked!

He hooked the invisible player, and Xiao Yin flashed in and took the kill!

At the same time, QILIN’s mid-laner chose to retreat, but an unstoppable event occurred—during this engagement, Xiao Yin took the blue buff from the enemy’s jungle, which couldn’t be contested. Instead, Rong Yi ended up getting it.

Both the Silver Hooks and Huibai Zhi Zhu were champions that relied on blue buffs.

At this moment, the two marksmen focusing on Rong Yi became one person. Huibai Zhi Zhu’s sustain was insufficient, and Rong Yi counterattacked decisively! At the same time, Wu Dao Gu rotated from the top lane and completed the gap in the surround strategy, forcing Huibai Zhi Zhu to flee down the jungle and right into Rong Yi’s face.

Knowing that there was no way back, Huibai Zhi Zhu used all his skills on Rong Yi, depleting Rong Yi’s health by one-third before being killed, and then Rong Yi recalled.

Everyone watching the game screamed in astonishment, and even the commentators were excited.

A full sixty minutes.

This was the first significant mistake made by either team.

And one mistake could very well determine the outcome of the game.

Rong Yi returned home to replenish his health, while the enemy’s invisible player respawned.

Both teams reestablished their vision.

The so-called vision information was constantly changing. A single recall could reset all existing information.

It was at this moment that the second astonishing synergy occurred.

Lane swap.

“Lane swap.” Rong Yi’s voice came through the microphone, and his hand muscles were trembling a bit from the high-frequency actions.

On the other side, QILIN’s mid-laner also executed a lane swap.

But they got it wrong.

The other commentator became excited.

“They guessed wrong, they guessed wrong! QILIN thought Rong Yi would switch lanes with Wu Dao Gu in the mid and top lanes, to take a break and replenish resources, so they went straight to the top lane. But the one who came to the top lane is Xiao Yin!”

“And the lane swap with Easy is in the bottom lane! Ci She went to the mid lane!”

No one expected that because both sides had lost two towers in the bottom lane, with only one high ground tower left, it was extremely dangerous.

But Rong Yi chose the most perilous path.

While Ci She made his presence known in the mid lane, Wu Dao Gu and Xiao Yin actively sought targets. A team fight broke out in the top lane, and Rong Yi, with the help of the Memory Key, ambushed the ADC in the bottom lane.

Huo Shen had high mobility, but when faced with the hard control of the Silver Hooks, there was no way to escape. He was pulled back by one spear and flashed away, but the Memory Key rewound time and brought him back to Rong Yi, where he was hit by another spear.

One wrong bet led to a chain reaction like a collapsing dam. QILIN’s mid-laner and jungler couldn’t rush back in time, and the ADC died in the bottom lane.

And in the bottom lane, only one tower stood between them and the enemy’s base.

Ci She stood firm on the mid lane, blocking QILIN’s retreat, while Rong Yi and the Memory Key began to demolish the tower.

The Memory Key allowed mages to destroy towers.

It was absurd, but it was incredibly effective.

Thanks to the time rewinding mechanism, the two of them had already destroyed one-third of the tower before the minion wave arrived. After the minion wave arrived, the high ground tower was almost instantly destroyed.

The spectators were on the verge of passing out. Everyone jumped up and roared, and even the commentators banged on the table and shouted.

“QILIN’s high ground is destroyed! QILIN’s jungler is rushing back, but it’s very likely that he won’t make it in time! The invisible player has just used up his three big moves, and Silver Hooks is evading his movement and controlling him. The Memory Key and Silver Hooks are both attacking the tower, and in an instant, Silver Hooks and the Memory Key sold their equipment and bought three ADC weapons—”

The mage and support bought AD items.

Three seconds.

The base’s health bar quickly dwindled to zero, and the battlefield fell silent.

The word “victory” appeared in front of the VIT team.

In the final battle, VIT defeated the three-time consecutive champions, QILIN, in the first game.

1:0.

A battle that crowned them as gods.

---

Extra Chapter: World Champion (4)

As a well-established world-class team, QIL and each of its players, like Xiao Yin, have world-class reputations.

The veteran quartet, including the newly added jungler Bo Bi, all have impressive records and history.

Shu Pian were flipping through the names of the active members of the QIL team in the car, trembling all the way.

Every single person is a competitor who has achieved new milestones.

The rookie king in the top lane, who has dominated four seasons; with a win rate of 71% in the professional scene and a 69% win rate in solo matches, the ADC known as the “genius among geniuses.” Just like Xiao Yin, he takes a champion to the extreme. No one dares not to ban his signature ADC, Aphelios, because not banning him would mean being crushed in the lane or in multiple lanes, resulting in certain death upon encountering him.

“Do you feel like it’s beyond reach?” Noticing the expression on the faces of Shu Pian, Xiao Yin casually asked.

Shu Pian nodded honestly. Even Ci She and Hui Mao nodded along.

They had gone through QIL’s training camp, and it was because of that experience that they understood the gap between themselves and the starting players.

Even though it was already the final match of the World Championship, for this new team called VIT, being the world runner-up again was already an honor that ordinary people wouldn’t dare to dream of. Yet, they still felt it was distant and unreal.

This gap was not about skill, but about perception. No matter how talented a young genius was, when they looked at the unfathomable experiences of their seniors, they still felt overwhelmed.

“When they started, they were just as new as you,” Xiao Yin said. “No one knew they would become world champions. They started from the national tournament, or even just from local internet cafe tournaments.”

“Or maybe you guys haven’t realized that you are creating your own journey?”

Rong Yi leaned back and looked out the car window, casually saying, “Brother Yi was still studying when he was eighteen. He had just registered for the domestic training camp.”

“Xiao She, Hui Mao, Shu Pian, look at yourselves.”

“At eighteen, he was already the national champion… and maybe he will be the world champion.”

Rong Yi smiled, his voice firm and powerful, carrying his innate calmness and confidence. “Who can say who is better?”

“Damn, that’s true.”

Ci She became spirited and opened his own encyclopedia entry on the phone.

“I feel like I can beat Brother Yi ten times now!!!!”

Hui Mao also became excited.

Actually, that’s true.

In this profession, the new generation of rising stars shines even brighter than many so-called experienced veterans.

Because in this profession, the waves of newcomers will always surpass the previous ones.

Those who reach their peak too early may find it difficult to take another step forward, while newcomers, thanks to the industry’s accumulated experience, start at a higher point and can easily go further.

The stage of the World Championship was nothing special, and compared to the scale of domestic league matches, it seemed a bit old and narrow.

But as they walked on the pristine red carpet and entered the countless halls of fame, the sight of those glorious achievements still felt overwhelming.

This was the eighth year of the global professional competition, and in those eight years, countless familiar and unfamiliar names had been permanently engraved on the wall of fame. Each trophy projection recorded the glory achieved by the competitors.

The media and flashlights were kept outside the safety fence, creating a small peaceful area inside.

Wu Dao Gu, with his sharp eyes, was the first to discover something. “Here, there’s a projection and a signature from the captain five years ago.”

Everyone gathered around.

And indeed, they saw it written on top.

“20XX World Champion, Mid Lane, easy. From China.”

“He was also the MVP of this tournament. He came here with a group of happy and free-spirited teammates and eventually won the championship. Our evaluation of him is that no one can rival him.”

Following that was Rong Yi’s flamboyant signature, “Rong Yi.”

The trophy back then wasn’t as exquisite as it is now, and the participating countries and regions weren’t as comprehensive as they are now, but it was still an impressive achievement.

Because there was only one row, the row of champions.

Rong Yi paused for a moment, gazing at the trophy projection for a while, then smiled and beckoned to everyone, “Come on, join me!”

In his eyes, there was nothing else, just pure radiance.

The past was filled with beautiful memories, and the five years in between, when he disappeared from the scene, also left him with no regrets.

Now, all that mattered was the present.

The QIL team members followed suit, and the most significant highlight of this tournament was the battle for the championship between two teams, one being Xiao Yin’s former team and the other being his current team.

VIT still had two QIL trainees among their members.

Some ill-intentioned netizens jokingly referred to it as “QIL’s Chinese team, just a match between insiders, it doesn’t matter who wins.”

On the field, both sides greeted each other with more enthusiasm and courtesy than usual teams.

In a regular venue meeting, handshakes and fist bumps were the norm, but the members of VIT and QIL were familiar with each other, like good friends. Those who knew each other or had heard their names embraced and patted each other firmly.

Xiao Yin, of course, received the most attention.

He was very popular within the team, and even the substitute jungler warmly greeted him.

“I miss you so much!! Yin!”

The teams on both sides had simultaneous interpreters, and the players could hear what each other was saying.

Under the global live broadcast, everyone was polite, wearing decent team uniforms, standing in place and chatting for a while.

Xiao Yin held onto Rong Yi’s hand.

“This is my lover and also my captain.”

After introducing Rong Yi, he leaned down to Rong Yi’s ear and introduced the past one by one.

“The big guy on the left, playing as the top laner.”

“He’s the ADC for the mage.”

“The support player, we discussed countermeasures for three whole days that day.” Xiao Yin remained calm and spoke in Chinese with a few cold-hearted words, but unfortunately, no one from QIL understood.

Rong Yi secretly gave him a thumbs up.

The QIL players exclaimed and came over, eagerly looking for Rong Yi to shake hands.

“We know you! Easy! The champion from five years ago! Your departure was truly the best in the world!”

“You’re even more beautiful and handsome in person than in photos!”

“You’re amazing! We watched your matches against Y in the China region from start to finish, and your tactics were incredible!”

A group of foreigners, with their translated expressions, made Rong Yi’s head spin.

But he was also happy.

He smiled and nodded, saying, “Thank you, everyone. I’m also glad to meet all of you. I’m familiar with each and every one of you.”

QIL’s ADC, KTK, smiled wryly after hearing that. “So, is this a challenge? It sounds really scary!”

Rong Yi smiled even more happily. “No, it’s not. I really am familiar with all of you. Your mage is really impressive.”

“So our Princess is also prepared.”

Xiao Yin quickly picked up on his words, as if they were in sync.

KTK immediately understood.

This was a challenge.

The atmosphere before the match was lively, and the commentators in various languages were already prepared.

Audiences from all over the world were watching the match, and the discussions were diverse.

“Cha, VIT? Is it really a branch team of QIL? QIL is a Chinese team?”

“QIL is the divine beast of China. The characters spell out ‘QILIN.’ Hasn’t anyone noticed?”

“In fact, Xiao Yin is the owner of QIL. More accurately, QIL is more like the overseas branch of the gaming company founded by Xiao Yin. He has already moved the company’s registered address to China.”

“Xiao Yin and Lei Ya’s relationship was exposed before, and his identity can no longer be hidden.”

“QIL is Xiao Yin’s team, but QIL is also QIL.”

“VIT is also Xiao Yin’s team, but similarly, VIT is a different VIT.”

The commentator said, “Although these two teams are familiar with each other, their styles are very different.”

“VIT was founded this year and has gained fame in China. They currently have a record of 27 wins and 1 loss in the Asian region, making them the team with the highest historical score in the Asian playoff.”

“Their core player is Easy, a world-class player who won the championship five years ago. VIT’s main strategy is to connect the mid lane as the core, with rotations and coordination in the other lanes. They play aggressively, react quickly, and don’t give their opponents any chance.”

“QIL was founded five years ago. After Y left the team last year, they brought in the new jungle player, Alex. Their main strategy hasn’t changed and is still focused on jungle carries.”

“This is the first time since the league started that a mid-lane core team is facing a jungle carry team in the finals.”

As they listened to the official commentary, the viewers in front of the screens felt the surge of blood, and a tense and excited mood was brewing.

Millions of eyes were focused on the live broadcast, and the arena was silent.

The pick/ban phase began.

Rong Yi sat in front of the screen, taking a deep breath.

After this breath, all the nervousness, worries, and fatigue were thrown away.

The focus on the field was something that couldn’t be achieved in any training match.

Subconsciously, they knew how important this game was, so their concentration was even stronger.

The spirits of the others also became highly focused, their minds clear.

The banning phase.

Facing their former team, their former teammates, they showed no mercy and first banned Yi.

In a BO3 match, the first game’s opening move was always the most intense.

The first game had to be a fierce clash because they couldn’t afford to lose a single game in a bo3.

Those who could make it to the World Championship were not inferior horses.

They didn’t choose to ban Xiao Yin’s signature champion first because they were familiar with his playstyle and positioning as a jungler. There was nothing more familiar than a teammate you had been playing with for four years, knowing how to counter that champion.

Instead, they wanted to force Xiao Yin to pick his signature champion. That was QIL’s absolute confidence.

On the VIT side, they didn’t show any mercy either. When the weapons clashed, the mage was banned first, and the Princess was the first pick with Serpent blade.

Rong Yi, on the second floor, glanced at Xiao Yin. Even in such a tense moment in the finals, he still had time to joke, “Shall I pick your signature champion, Brother Y? Or should I pick it myself and see who is more stubborn, the opponent or us?”

Xiao Yin replied, “Captain Rong, take care of yourself.”

Rong Yi stuck out his tongue, looked at the lineup, and picked the warrior for Wu Dao Gu, then went to the fifth floor.

Both sides are waiting for the other to pick a tactical hero first, such as Memory Key or Earth Mother.

Both sides cautiously pick heroes for the top and bottom lanes to observe the opponent’s movements.

VIT has the hardest time countering B’s tactics because they don’t have a consistent system. The same lineup can produce completely opposite results.

“They’ve locked in without revealing their lineup.” Hui Mao looked at the four empty spots on the other side, feeling a bit nervous.

QIL is truly extraordinary.

They are similar to VIT in that they prefer to keep their options open and strike back.

VIT is at a disadvantage since they drew the first pick, but they were not surprised by this. They have thoroughly studied Qil and their main goal and style have always been to invade the jungle and counter-attack.

“Captain, how should we choose?”

There are only ten seconds left on the countdown, and Rong Yi closed his eyes and pondered.

In the camera, the young man slightly lowered his eyes, seemingly lost in thought.

Outside, there were different opinions being voiced.

“Pick Memory Key for the mid lane. It’s very stable, and Easy, the player in the mid lane, often performs exceptionally. It also allows the team some room for error. QIL’s versatile and counter-attacking style works well with Memory Key.”

“Silver Hook is also good! It’s great for guarding the jungle.”

After a discussion, the only thing they wanted to see was what creative strategy Rong Yi could come up with after his favorite hero was banned.

Ci She made their pick, the countdown reached five seconds.

Five.

Four.

Three.

Ci She selected Memory Key!

Everyone remembered that Memory Key was Rong Yi’s weapon of choice.

People in the crowd started screaming.

“Memory Key!! Who will take it? Easy or Hui Mao?”

“I don’t know! They didn’t switch positions immediately!”

Ci She locked in Memory Key. It was QIL’s turn to pick.

With Memory Key already chosen, the other side hesitated.

A faint smile appeared on Rong Yi’s lips.

“I’m thinking about something.”

“What is it?”

“We have thoroughly studied QIL. In just the past two years, we’ve watched over three hundred matches, scrutinizing every detail.”

“If they value us enough, they should have watched the matches between us and CH hundreds or even thousands of times, right?”

Just as he finished speaking, QIL revealed their lineup.

Huo Shen [Fire God], Niao Zu [Bird Ancestor], Huibai Zhi Zhu [Gray-White Spider].

Exactly the same.

The commentator exclaimed, “The same lineup! We can explain to the unaware audience that this lineup is the one VIT used against CH in the final match of this year’s domestic playoffs!”

“This lineup is characterized by high speed and aggressive engages. Judging by this trend, QIL is planning to continue invading the jungle!”

“But what’s puzzling is that VIT actually won when facing this lineup. Why is QIL replicating the experience of a failed team?”

At this moment, in the recording booth…

“Captain.”

The others also realized it. “It’s just like what you said. They’re really using this strategy.”

Rong Yi nodded, then chose the last two heroes for our team.

Common mid lane heroes, Silver Hook, with the Wind Skill Configuration.

The powerful jungle hero, Di.

Fully locked in.

But so far, no one knew who on VIT would take Memory Key and who would take Silver Hook.

This lineup was almost a replica of the final match of the domestic championship.

Bizarre, yet it made people unusually nervous because, at first glance, everything seemed the same, but there were subtle differences.

After VIT made their selection, QIL finally revealed their heroes.

Their lineup was similar to CH’s lineup from that match, but not exactly the same.

CH had Huo Shen, Niao Zu, Huibai Zhi Zhu, Langren, and Dadi Zhi Mu.

QIL had Huo Shen, Niao Zu, Huibai Zhi Zhu, Chun Shen, and Yin.

The jungle and support roles changed, adding endurance and crowd control capabilities.

“QIL picked Yin!!!!” The commentators went crazy. “They picked Yin right in front of Xiao Yin!! Is this provocation? What’s going on?”

“It’s very strange! QIL’s lineup is different from what they usually play, and it’s particularly surprising that they’re using a lineup that’s almost identical to the losing team in the Chinese region.”

Rong Yi whistled.

Xiao Yin shrugged.

Both sides made their final selections as the countdown ended. VIT’s mid and support did not swap heroes, and the dust settled.

This means that VIT also made some subtle changes. The mid and support roles returned to their original positions. They hadn’t switched positions before to create the illusion of a replicated lineup for QIL.

Both sides were trying to outsmart each other, but neither succeeded.

Only VIT’s players knew that QIL’s lineup today signified something.

They adopted CH’s high mobility and strengthened endurance and engages. This meant that Qil had likely discovered something in that match.

They wanted to limit their opponent’s vision.

Without any illusions, without any room for maneuver, in the first match of the finals, QIL, a renowned and consistently top-performing opponent, directly targeted their weaknesses and employed their highest-level tactics.

No room for maneuver was left.

At the same time, it was also a gesture of the utmost respect given to a world-class top team.

---

Extra Chapter: World Champion (3)

After finishing the task, Rong Yi got out of bed and went to take a shower. Xiao Yin followed him and entered, acting like a good boyfriend from ancient times, holding the showerhead for him.

Rong Yi lay in the bathtub and instructed him, “Wash me.”

Xiao Yin tilted his head, put down the showerhead, and sank into the bathtub.

The bathtub was filled with shower gel that smelled like white peach milk, and the snowy white foam surged and quickly submerged Rong Yi’s body.

Xiao Yin didn’t listen, and Rong Yi couldn’t be bothered to argue with him. He sank down and completely relaxed in the bathtub.

The foam was snow-white, and the skin was also fair, with a flesh-colored tone that revealed a smooth and tender texture when wet. The underwater scene was hazy, while the part above the water was elegant and slender.

Rong Yi raised his head, just as he splashed a bit of water, and saw Xiao Yin entering with a camera.

Rong Yi didn’t bother to move, he just looked at Xiao Yin.

Xiao Yin also didn’t move, casually leaning against the wall with the camera pointing at him, taking a series of photos.

This time, Rong Yi didn’t even bother to hide. He lazily raised his gaze and met Xiao Yin’s eyes through the lens.

The camera zoomed in and focused on Rong Yi’s eyes, those transparent peach blossom eyes were especially captivating, with a hint of red at the corners.

That gaze carried a hint of provocation.

Rong Yi stuck out his tongue and licked his lips.

“Pervert.”

Xiao Yin zoomed in with the camera, laughing softly, “You have a perverted boyfriend.”

Rong Yi stopped talking because he felt that if Xiao Yin continued to provoke him, he had the ability to handle him in the bathroom.

Xiao Yin enjoyed taking pictures of him.

With Xiao Yin, it seemed that he had never remembered the rule of not taking pictures of him. Since Rong Yi explicitly mentioned this desensitization method, Xiao Yin had complete freedom and took pictures of him all the time, regardless of whether there was anything happening or not.

Often, Rong Yi would take a nap on the sofa and find the next day that Xiao Yin had changed his desktop background to his sleeping face.

And he didn’t even try to hide it.

He suspected that Xiao Yin had pictures of every expression and every action of his. Whether it was something he could show to others or not, Xiao Yin had them all.

Xiao Yin didn’t make him wait for too long. After taking a few shots, he put the camera aside and came over to wash Rong Yi.

Wearing an unbuttoned shirt, Xiao Yin’s chest was in good shape.

Rong Yi watched him while relaxing his body.

“Did your stomach hurt earlier?” Xiao Yin pressed his lower abdomen.

Rong Yi shook his head. “No pain.”

“Next time, let’s do it outside. I’m worried.” Xiao Yin was always very strict when it came to Rong Yi’s well-being.

Rong Yi held his shoulder to prevent himself from slipping down. “If we do it outside, we’ll have to change the sheets every day.”

“It’s not much different. Even if we don’t do it that way, we change the sheets every three days.” Xiao Yin said softly, “Are you afraid Auntie will see when she washes the sheets? We can wash them ourselves.”

“…”

Rong Yi blushed a little and held back for a while. “You’re really forcing me to say it, aren’t you?”

“Hmm?” Xiao Yin tilted his head slightly, looking confused this time. He truly didn’t understand. “Say what?”

“Say…” Rong Yi gritted his teeth, then forcefully splashed water, drenching Xiao Yin, “I like it this way! I like it when you’re inside me… that way!”

Xiao Yin was momentarily stunned, then a smile curled up at the corners of his lips.

Rong Yi was almost infuriated by him.

He kicked Xiao Yin with his foot. “Get out! Leave, don’t distract me from my training!”

Xiao Yin grabbed his foot to prevent him from slipping. “Let’s train together later. Today is a rest day, just the two of us.”

Rong Yi continued to kick him. “Go away, go away! Don’t talk to me when you leave.”

Xiao Yin chuckled and realized that both of them were in a hurry, so he stopped teasing him. He got up, neatly folded the towel and fresh clothes for Rong Yi, and casually said, “I’ll wash outside. I’ll turn on the equipment for you.”

“Okay.” Rong Yi buried his chin in the bubbles, saying, “Thanks, Brother Yin.”

Xiao Yin chuckled again. As far as Rong Yi was concerned, he found him especially adorable.

This kind of cuteness didn’t mean anything in particular, but he just wanted to be by his side, washing him, or even being kicked by him. It was interesting.

After taking a shower, Rong Yi changed his clothes and got up, leaving the bathroom and heading downstairs.

Xiao Yin finished washing faster than him. Xiao Yin usually took a quick shower, while Rong Yi would soak in the bath for twenty minutes to relax his muscles.

It was a rest day today, and they only left half a day for the members of VIT to take care of their personal matters. After all, since Mid-Autumn Festival, none of them had taken a break.

However, the other members of VIT hadn’t left the city. They all went to a nearby supermarket to buy some daily necessities and then quickly went to sleep.

There were several real machines set up in the training room, distributed near their training seats.

Xiao Yin had already sat down at his position.

Rong Yi looked at those dark cameras, took a deep breath, his heart beating slightly faster, but he still walked over and sat down.

He still wasn’t completely used to it, but compared to before, it was much better.

When Xiao Yin first set up these things and placed them there, Rong Yi was extremely uncomfortable and it greatly affected his performance during matches. But gradually, he got used to it.

More importantly, now when he sees the camera, the first association is no longer a gaze of voyeurism or scrutiny, but a gentle and slightly indulgent look behind Xiao Yin.

After all, that’s how he looks at him when he takes pictures.

Rong Yi quickly got into the zone.

The extra practice was really intense. They trained for four hours straight from the afternoon until evening. Afterwards, Rong Yi and Xiao Yin went over their strategies against QIL in a low voice, trying to think through and cover any potential gaps.

The two of them didn’t come up with any new ideas; the current plan B and basic tactics were already determined.

It was unrealistic to expect to target QIL individually or from plan B, considering they were a world-class team. Mistakes were unlikely to occur. To win, they had to meet two conditions.

First, no one could make any obvious mistakes.

Second, they couldn’t let the pace drag on. The core advantage of the Mid-Autumn Festival strategy lay in the swift coordination and efficient allocation of resources in the early and mid-game. However, if this advantage was dragged into a late-game showdown, it would lose its meaning.

Within ten days, the day of the match arrived.

The final match of the global championship was held at the headquarters of the gaming company, which was also Xiao Yin’s old territory.

Five days before the start of the match, the entire VIT team had already arrived in City A of Country A.

Among the other team members, besides Shu Pian, the headquarters of several foreign players were located here. Returning to City A was like returning to their old nest, and Xiao Yin excitedly introduced everything along the way to Rong Yi.

Ci She, Hui Mao, and Wu Dao Gu were not all like Xiao Yin, growing up, participating in competitions, and training abroad.

Hui Mao studied abroad himself and attended the same high school as Xiao Yin. He loved playing games and signed up for QIL’s youth training camp when she heard Xiao Yin’s name at school.

Ci She’s family was not in Country A. He was like Wu Dao Gu, going wherever there were competitions globally, collecting prize money like a mercenary, and was finally recruited to the youth training camp by a headhunter.

For this reason, it was easier to take Ci She and Hui Mao with them. As for Wu Dao Gu, he volunteered to join Xiao Yin’s team, and they had known each other since earlier in China. That’s how this team was formed.

They were familiar with City A, and Xiao Yin was not unfamiliar with it either.

He had been here five years ago and won the championship with a group of old teammates who had personal translators with them.

At the scene of the airport landing, the team’s overseas fans and various media were waiting outside.

As soon as VIT landed, they were bombarded with crazy photography. Blinding flashes lit up, and Rong Yi instinctively pushed back, blocking it with his hand, but he didn’t lower his head or show any obvious timidity.

Xiao Yin reached out and firmly held his hand.

This scene was captured by many people, and for the first time, a close-up photo of Xiao Yin and Rong Yi together appeared on the fans’ phones.

They were holding hands.

The weather in City A was slightly chilly, around ten degrees Celsius.

Under the dim airport sky, only flashes kept flickering on and off.

Rong Yi’s jet-black messy hair was made even whiter and brighter by the flashes. He was wearing a casual jacket with a metallic orange and blue style, looking relaxed and eye-catching.

Xiao Yin, on the other hand, was wearing a blue and white jacket today. Both of them were so handsome that they radiated light.

Xiao Yin stayed with Rong Yi the whole time, whispering to him while using English to remind the media to keep a little distance.

Photos of the two of them instantly appeared on social media.

Countless people were amazed, and some remembered.

Apart from those chaotic candid shots, this was the first time Rong Yi openly appeared in front of the media.

Seeing the light of day again.

---

Extra Chapter: World Champion (2)

Rong Yi’s treatment is a gradual process.

Initially, the first consideration was to find a psychologist, but the treatment plan suggested by the psychologist either took too long or involved desensitization techniques they were already aware of.

So after discussing it, they decided to try desensitization on their own because time was really limited.

That’s how Rong Yi moved into Xiao Yin’s room for the second time.

In fact, after the playoffs, Rong Yi briefly stayed there for a while.

Getting engaged and living together was a natural progression, with someone to cuddle every night, and both of them had no objections.

But they both overestimated their self-control.

Rong Yi, who could resist chasing after five low-health opponents right in front of him as the world’s top jungler, and the person who remained calm even when facing the world’s top mid-laner and the imminent danger, almost fell into a trap.

It was quite embarrassing.

Last time, Rong Yi moved back after only three days in Xiao Yin’s room, and ever since then, even if they had any activities in Xiao Yin’s room, Xiao Yin would always give up his bed for Rong Yi and sleep on the couch outside.

To the point that when Lin Yi asked Rong Yi, “You guys still sleep in separate rooms?” Rong Yi didn’t know how to explain it.

Because if they didn’t sleep in separate rooms, the mid-laner of Team VIT and the jungler of Team VIT would probably have capsized in the World Championship Finals.

However, now they had a legitimate reason, and this matter suddenly seemed somewhat necessary.

“Does this count as paid work…?”

Rong Yi couldn’t help but ask Xiao Yin, who gently pinched his neck, “Doing…?”

Xiao Yin lightly licked his Adam’s apple and said, “It does.”

Rong Yi was still a little worried about work, “What about today’s training schedule…?”

“Hmm?” Xiao Yin whispered, “You’ve already practiced for an extra two hours.”

“We’re not just… capable of that.” Rong Yi felt his face flush and started using cruder language, “Two hours is enough.”

“Then you say.” Xiao Yin parted his legs and lifted Rong Yi onto himself, biting his ear, “How many hours do you want?”

Xiao Yin had a calm expression, devoid of any ripples, cold and sexy to the extreme.

But Rong Yi knew that when this person got into the mood, he couldn’t focus on anything else, no matter what he said.

“Two hours.” Rong Yi said decisively, “No more, more than that would really delay things.”

“Four hours.” Xiao Yin calmly said, “I’ll accompany you in extra practice.”

After saying that, Rong Yi felt that Xiao Yin didn’t immediately act.

He was already aroused, impatiently wanting it from Xiao Yin, but Xiao Yin became patient instead. His gaze was deep and focused, but his actions were extremely restrained.

He turned his back and embraced Rong Yi, lifted his knee, and wrapped the blanket around them.

Rong Yi: “?”

Xiao Yin then took out his phone.

Rong Yi was about to explode with anger. He turned around and wanted to grab his collar, but then he realized that his clothes didn’t have a collar since he had taken them off. He didn’t know where to put his hands, so he could only grab Xiao Yin’s neck. Xiao Yin paused for a moment, but he didn’t put down his phone. Rong Yi could only see him leaning in front of him, his voice filled with anger and gritted teeth.

“Are you doing it or not?”

“Is it okay or not?”

Xiao Yin was struggling to breathe from being choked by Rong Yi, but he still remained calm. He said, “Be more serious; this is desensitization therapy. Let’s assess the progress first.”

Then, Xiao Yin gently released Rong Yi’s grip and held his hands in his own palms, saying, “Let’s take a look at the camera first.”

He said it as if it were real.

But it made sense.

Rong Yi swallowed his anger and watched as Xiao Yin adjusted the camera.

At first, Xiao Yin accidentally aimed it at him, and Rong Yi dodged, but soon he realized and stopped dodging.

Xiao Yin got close to the camera, looking at the screen, and saw a completely angry and fierce beauty baring her teeth and glaring at him.

He had never seen Rong Yi so visibly angry before, so angry that he was about to explode.

But cute.

Incredibly cute.

Rong Yi used to be like this too. When he was mocked in the game, he would scream loudly and play fiercely all night to regain his pride. His anger wasn’t genuine; he was just annoyed. That seriousness was especially adorable.

Throwing a tantrum was also a kind of carefree arrogance.

“It’s fine.”

Xiao Yin’s voice carried a sense of calmness and indifference, “You can look at the camera now, start making expressions.”

As if he wasn’t the reason behind it.

Because of you.

Rong Yi almost fainted from anger. He picked up his scattered clothes and was about to leave, saying, “I’ll take care of it myself.”

Who could resist such a thing.

Xiao Yin could.

Xiao Yin quickly stopped him. He put down the camera, inserted a tape into the projector, and used his other hand to hold Rong Yi tightly in his embrace. He kissed and whispered to him.

“No rush, no rush.” Xiao Yin lowered his head to kiss Rong Yi’s neck, and Rong Yi softened again.

Rong Yi heard Xiao Yin ask, “Does foreplay time count in the four hours?” Xiao Yin asked.

Rong Yi was trembling all over from Xiao Yin’s teasing, but he still tried to curse, “What foreplay? Do you even have four hours?”

After saying that, Rong Yi regretted it. Xiao Yin’s expression didn’t change at all, but Rong Yi had just completed a verbal attack that could be considered self-destructive.

Xiao Yin’s eyelashes fluttered, and his voice remained calm. “Face the camera for ten minutes and have the energy to curse.”

He reached out and held Rong Yi’s chin, resting his own chin on Rong Yi’s shoulder.

He forced Rong Yi to raise his head and look at the projection on the wall.

Rong Yi held his breath.

He felt embarrassed to look, but Xiao Yin held his chin slightly forcefully, making it difficult for him to move. His gaze naturally met the screen.

On the screen, a deep red surged.

Xiao Yin had recently changed the bed sheets. This room, which had always been decorated in a minimalist gray style, now had deep red bed sheets.

Blended with the dark gray space behind, it created an extremely sensual and intense color tension.

Combined with the warm white of the human body, all entanglements became vividly ambiguous, arousing intense emotions.

He truly was a photographer.

He mastered the art of colors.

As Rong Yi continued to watch, he couldn’t dare to look anymore.

“Handle it yourself?” Xiao Yin’s voice drifted by his ear. “Do you have it in you to handle it alone?”

This warm-up activity nearly tortured Rong Yi to death.

Xiao Yin was able to endure it.

Rong Yi vaguely realized this from their usual takeout orders.

Whenever Rong Yi felt hungry, he felt like he was on the brink of starving to death and had to eat something delicious immediately.

But Xiao Yin could leave a meal out to cool and preferred to finish all his tasks before eating.

The king of torment.

Xiao Yin spent nearly forty minutes teasing and tormenting Rong Yi, bringing him to the edge of tears. By the time Rong Yi was about to cry and curse, he already began spouting nonsense.

“Xiao Yin, I want to break up with you.”

“Xiao Yin, my ex-boyfriend wasn’t as unenthusiastic as you.”

He started rambling.

Xiao Yin remained calm and composed, but finally made a crucial move.

Rong Yi’s hair stood on end as if he had been shocked by electricity.

“Who?” Xiao Yin asked with a low laugh. “You had a boyfriend before me? Puppy love?”

This person clearly had no trust at all.

While Rong Yi tried to remain still with Xiao Yin, he stubbornly retorted, spouting random words.

“He was very handsome and had dyed golden hair. Do you think I came to A City alone? During that runaway period, there were actually two of us. I had a little boyfriend, he sat next to me in junior high school—ah.”

“What’s his name?”

Xiao Yin lowered his head and bit Rong Yi’s ear. “I’ll go kill him.”

Rong Yi stuck out his tongue.

He knew that these were harsh words said out of emotional distress, but this person was really scary.

Rong Yi stopped speaking.

Xiao Yin clearly became somewhat anxious. He became even more ruthless while asking him.

“What’s his name? Do you still keep in touch with him? Delete him.”

By this point, Xiao Yin’s movements had become faster, and Rong Yi couldn’t maintain his relative stillness with him.

But this person was never short on energetic banter. He continued to make up stories and provoke him.

“He was so handsome, totally not your type—he bought me milk tea, oh.”

“He still, he still…”

Damn it.

There was no point in saying anything anymore.

Rong Yi no longer had the energy or opportunity to say a complete sentence.

The camera continued to film, and when it was over, Rong Yi completely collapsed on the large bed, unable to summon the strength to even move his fingers.

It was too torturous.

He had reached the peak of pleasure but also felt completely drained.

Xiao Yin demanded, “Captain give me your phone.”

His expression remained gloomy.

Getting revenge felt extremely satisfying.

Rong Yi knew that Xiao Yin wanted to check his phone, so he threw it to him, feeling weak and powerless.

“The password is my ex-boyfriend’s birthday.”

He secretly glanced at Xiao Yin, sneakily observing his reaction.

Sure enough, Xiao Yin entered his own birthday, and as the unlock was successful, the coldness in his eyes noticeably diminished.

Tsk.

Men.

So easily appeased.

---

Extra Chapter: World Champion (1)

This year’s World Champion slots are determined by points. The domestic team VIT and CH secured their spot in the World Champion and subsequently competed against fifteen teams from around the world.

On the CH side, having just lost the national championship, they were immediately focused on preparing for the World Champion. There was no time for regret or sadness. They went into seclusion as a team to discuss strategies for the World Champion.

On the other hand, VIT continued with their regular training routine. Their training was not solely focused on winning the domestic championship; they aimed to surpass everyone.

Strong foreign teams, including QILIN, had all been analyzed by AI, and the VIT team thoroughly discussed their strategies.

CH had no previous experience preparing for the World Champion, and even Lu Feng was still pondering how to counter VIT’s tactics. It was only after being reminded by someone else that they realized their biggest enemy at this moment was not VIT but the other team from their country.

Ironically, they were the only two teams from their country to advance.

Their opponents were the same.

The strategies of other regional teams had already been studied, so currently, it was not a problem for VIT.

A few days ago, they played against teams from Japan and South Korea in the Asian group stage, and they performed well.

Among the seventeen teams participating in this year’s World Champion, fifteen teams utilized wild or sub-core lineups, while only VIT and the Korean team GET employed mid-core strategies.

When the two teams faced each other, victory or defeat was determined.

GET relied on a more traditional mid-core system for coordinated movements, and they also used traditional mages in the mid lane, requiring economic advantage. In contrast, VIT exhibited seamless coordination like gears interlocking, making it challenging for their opponents to counter them.

After the group stage in the region, eight teams remained out of the seventeen, and they proceeded to the single-elimination playoffs.

Due to the single-elimination format, it was quite peculiar that until the semifinals, QILIN and VIT had not faced each other in a match.

The drawing of lots for the two sides had consistently avoided each other. In the eyes of viewers around the world, it was as if the two teams were hiding from each other.

Before the final showdown, they each cleared all other obstacles, igniting the passion in everyone’s blood.

VIT completed their matches in the quarterfinals earlier than anyone else, giving them around ten extra days to prepare for the upcoming finals.

During this time, VIT made preparations and held discussions within their club. After the intense domestic matches, everyone was relatively calm.

In the living room, each person held a planning board and discussed strategies. As the evening training session came to an end, the rest of the team members went to rest, while Rong Yi and Xiao Yin continued discussing and exchanging ideas.

The two of them were very close, leaning against each other playfully. It wasn’t very formal, but that’s how the meetings had been all day, and no one dared to say anything.

In recent days, the observant individuals in the club had already noticed that Rong Yi had a men’s ring on her left ring finger. Similarly, Xiao Yin also had the same style of ring on his left hand.

Mainly due to lack of time, otherwise everyone would have wanted to ask if they had secretly gotten married during their preparations for the World Champion.

“Brother Yin, can you give us a hint?” Rong Yi tugged at Xiao Yin’s sleeve and joked, “QILIN is your team, can you keep it a secret from your own palm?”

Xiao Yin shrugged, “I’m just the boss. The team’s current tactics and strategies are confidential to me too.”

However, it was true that Xiao Yin had left the team a year ago, and this year QILIN’s tactics and strategies for the World Champion had completely changed.

Most importantly, before Xiao Yin left, QILIN used a wild-core lineup, and their newly added jungler, LOCK, was a fairly standard player. QILIN’s overall playstyle this year leaned toward stability.

Rong Yi found a live recording of a QILIN match from two years ago and started watching it.

They had analyzed this match countless times, remembering every instance where someone missed a minion wave.

Rong Yi’s focus was on Xiao Yin.

Back then, Xiao Yin’s invisibility was truly deadly. He disregarded vision predictions throughout the entire game, always securing a kill when he landed, and his blind effect was like a shadow, as if he had a third eye.

The team played around the jungle core, with everyone opening up paths for Xiao Yin. The mid lane was stable, the bottom lane was agile, the top lane handled pressure well, and the support coordinated seamlessly. In every aspect, it was flawless.

Five years of a jungle core, five years of world-class dominance.

Now, VIT had shifted their core to the mid lane, and Xiao Yin’s individual carry playstyle had taken a backseat. All five players concealed their personal styles and habits, becoming a united force.

The name Yin was wiped away, giving birth to the new name VIT, representing all five players.

It wasn’t regrettable, just a longing for the past.

After watching for a while, Rong Yi closed the video and nestled into Xiao Yin’s arms.

Xiao Yin embraced him and stroked his hair. “Don’t worry. Trust in the choices we’ve always made.”

“Did you never consider this playstyle when you were with QILIN?”

“I did consider it, but it was just my personal imagination. Firstly, the software hadn’t been developed at that time, and secondly, the game version was different.” Xiao Yin explained.

Rong Yi knew about this.

At the beginning of last year, there was a major update and overhaul of the game, with significant changes to long-standing fundamental values. Overall, there were major resource and map changes, which created an opportunity for VIT’s rise.

Since last year, Rong Yi had also realized that playing a mid-lane carry would be more suitable. However, he was the only one diving into the details.

“VIT continues to follow my line of thinking: high risk, high reward. As for QILIN, it’s hard to say. They are all seasoned veterans who can adapt to any changes. After five years, they know each other like the back of their hand.”

“LOCK has been with the team for a year now, and from the current situation, he’s still very strong,” Xiao Yin added.

Xiao Yin held Rong Yi with one hand and used the other to retrieve a set of data. “These are the files I obtained about LOCK. You said you wanted to see them, so I wrote them down.”

Rong Yi remained nestled in his embrace and didn’t move. “Hmm, I’ll look at them tomorrow.”

“Resting?” Xiao Yin asked in a low voice. “How have you been feeling these past few days?”

“Pretty… pretty good,” Rong Yi blushed slightly, whispering, “Can you carry me upstairs?”

Xiao Yin lowered his head and lightly kissed his cheek, then lifted him horizontally and headed upstairs.

The schedule had been tight recently, and it didn’t seem to be easing up anytime soon.

Their usual evening activities were scheduled for their weekly rest day, but these past few days were an exception.

There were some more serious matters that needed to be accomplished through this not-so-serious matter.

That matter was the new rule announced by the Global League this year. During the finals, all participating professional players had to be shown on camera, revealing their true appearances.

This change was based on the overall trend in professional esports this year. The games attracted the audience, and the audience sustained the games. They were mutually beneficial.

The league ultimately chose this rule, and when it came to rules, they were determined by the larger environment and no longer subject to personal influence.

Everyone in VIT knew that this rule, ironically, was Rong Yi’s weakness.

Of course, individuals might still have some influence, but Xiao Yin had always believed that this matter wasn’t so important because Rong Yi didn’t need to force himself.

“Do you really feel good?” Xiao Yin carried him upstairs, lightly pushing open the partially closed door. “Are you uncomfortable?”

“If it’s uncomfortable, there’s no need to force yourself.”

Xiao Yin said in a low voice, “It’s just a matter of making them change the rule back.”

“In the past, I couldn’t stand it.”

Rong Yi was placed on the bed by him. His breath was uneven, and his fingertips gripped the bedsheets.

Half of it was because there was a fully automated tracking camera set up next to them.

The other half was because Xiao Yin leaned over, pressing down on him.

“Back then, even without all of you, I felt it was unnecessary.”

“Now it’s a rule, so I consider it a hurdle that must be overcome on the professional path.”

“What if I can’t overcome it?”

“Either overcome it or it means I’m not suited for this path.”

Just like the most brilliant surgeon getting queasy at the sight of blood. There’s no need for melodrama. If you’re not suited for it despite your talent and the current environment, then don’t compete.

“I’ll make them change it back.”

Xiao Yin kissed the corner of his mouth. “I always feel like you’re pushing yourself too hard.”

…

After a moment of silence and the sound of water.

Xiao Yin paused his movements and looked at Rong Yi with confusion.

“There’s no need to change it.”

Rong Yi said softly, grabbing Xiao Yin’s sleeve, his cheeks slightly flushed. “Just help me overcome it.”

---

The applause lasted for a long time, and Rong Yi was no longer hesitant. He nodded slightly and followed Xiao Yin onto the stage.

The short distance from backstage to the stage seemed like slow motion to everyone’s eyes.

Countless cameras and smartphones were already in position. No one in the audience could tell that it was a holographic projection. The actual award stage and presenters were in another venue.

In the starlit rain, the domestic championship trophy slowly rose, shining brightly under the dazzling lights, as if immersed in a layer of scorching golden radiance.

The applause and cheers grew stronger, gradually forming a rhythm. Everyone cheered “VIT! VIT!” until Xiao Yin took the stage, then it changed to “Brother Yin Brother Yin.” When Rong Yi stepped onto the stage, the crowd fell silent, followed by even more intense screams and applause!

The live camera, TV broadcast camera, and the mobile phones of the on-site audience, including the current projection, clearly captured Rong’s figure.

Never before had there been such a clear moment, nor had so many people seen him up close like this.

Even during the previous All-Star Game, not so many people saw him at the same time.

The young figure was tall and slender, with a delicate shoulder and a jade-like neck. His skin was extremely fair, and his eyelashes were pitch black.

But most importantly was his expression, carrying a particularly gentle smile and a calm and composed demeanor.

Under the dazzling stage lights, he seemed to shine along with them.

Everyone was shocked, even Lin Yi didn’t react in time. He quietly asked the staff next to him, “Did A Yi overcome his camera phobia? Did VIT agree to be on camera?”

The internal staff also hesitated for a moment, but no one could explain what was happening. Everyone quickly cast aside their doubts and joined the camp of applause and celebration.

“That’s the team captain? The captain looks like this?!”

“I’m at a loss for words. How can the captain be so good-looking? My eyes can’t move away from him!”

“Is that Easy? Is that Easy? Is that Easy? Oh my god!”

GIFs and high-definition images of the entire award ceremony quickly became trending. #VIT Championship# has remained at the top since the dust settled, and at the same time, several other related terms also soared in popularity.

#MVP Easy#

#Five-year Champions!#

“Wow, damn it! Who else is there? Five years at the top! Five-year champions!”

“Wherever he is, that’s where the champion is!”

The host recited the award speeches for each person, and this year’s championship MVP had no objections from anyone.

Rong Yi was the core of the team, the backbone of VIT.

“Five-year champions, world champions once, from the first mid-laner to the first support, and now back to being the first mid-laner.”

“The arena is like a battlefield, and Easy is like a knife. Perhaps covered in dust, perhaps unnoticed, because a knife does not seek attention, dazzling brilliance, or the admiration of others. A knife is just a knife, carving a bloody path in the midst of the slaughter.”

“As long as you look up at him, you will discover that he has always been here, shining brightly, making the world change colors.”

“This is VIT’s mid-laner, our captain Rong, our Easy!”

“Sword energy stretches for thirty thousand miles, a sword’s radiance chills the nineteen continents. The unparalleled mid-laner, the world’s only mid-laner, Li.”

With swords and energy flowing, dazzling animations of Li once again overwhelmed everyone, surpassing the heads of all present.

The host walked towards Rong Yi.

On the big screen, Rong Yi lowered his eyelids slightly, a gentle smile on his lips.

Xiao Yin remained expressionless and whispered, “Do you feel embarrassed? I told them to write the introduction with a bit of arrogance.”

Rong Yi whispered back, “It’s fine, I like it.”

“Is the introduction in the World Championships like this too?”

Rong Yi replied playfully, “You think so too?” and then both of them lowered their heads and laughed together.

“The styles are different, but I think they’re similar,” Xiao Yin whispered, “Don’t make it sound like we’re not familiar with each other.”

“They’re both in English, I don’t understand,” Rong Yi replied, “This year, you can translate for me simultaneously.”

“No problem,” Xiao Yin said.

No one could hear what they were whispering, but in front of the camera, all they saw was Xiao Yin and Rong Yi standing close together, speaking softly with smiles on their faces. There was a hint of indulgence in Xiao Yin’s eyes, and joy in Rong Yi’s.

The microphone was handed to Xiao Yin, and he didn’t say much either.

On the screen, the young man who looked like he was emitting light held the microphone with slender, pale fingertips, exuding a graceful and ethereal temperament.

His voice was as clear and pleasant as water and clouds.

“Thank you all for your support to VIT, we are very grateful. This is just the first step, we are waiting for everyone on the world stage.”

“On the world stage, not only are we there, but CH is also there. We hope that everyone can continue to pay attention and support us.”

“There are many other teams and players in China who are just like us. We hope that everyone can pay more attention. Not just this year, but in every year to come, we will strive for the pinnacle of the world championships.”

Then, he bowed slightly to the audience, and everyone else followed suit.

A short sentence once again ignited everyone’s enthusiasm.

That’s the kind of bold, calm, and direct ambition.

That’s how they calmly and confidently aimed for the highest position!

On this night, all e-sports spectators, whether VIT fans or not, were stunned by them.

“Charge! Charge towards the World Championships!”

“Five years, Team Rong! Five years!”

VIT and CH broke the existing esports pattern, and that was what everyone witnessed this season.

A dedicated and hardworking team can stand at the peak; the sweat exchanged through day and night training can be transformed into visible results.

As long as you respect everything within it and work hard, there will always be rewards, and you will always see the stars.

For the first time, the domestic championship arena was not a battlefield of fan wars, but a place where all esports fans cheered, screamed, and cried together.

All members of CH also rushed to the stage, crying or smiling, embracing the members of VIT tightly.

The so-called esports pattern.

There’s never been a “how it should be.” The feeble resistance of “how it should be” is futile. Only strength has the highest authority.

With RS in power, e-sports looks like RS.

With VIT in power, e-sports becomes what VIT wants to create. Creating themselves and creating equally strong opponents.

This is also the essence of competition itself.

This is the first time, and it won’t be the last time, that a true champion’s night completely breaks out based on their own popularity.

The hype of the champion’s night continued for three days, and close-up shots of Xiao Yin flooded everyone’s social media platforms.

E-sports matters to e-sports, and matters of desire belong to those who appreciate beauty.

At this point, Xiao Yin’s true appearance was completely exposed on all platforms.

Under Xiao Yin’s social media accounts overseas, the countless daily comments of “Xiao Yin, show us your wife, RWKK,” completely transformed into “Xiao Yin, I envy you for having such a wonderful wife,” “Thank you everyone, the three of us are very happy”…

Xiao Yin also received numerous interview invitations, but VIT declined them all.

While the domestic season has come to an end and entered the offseason,

preparations for the international tournaments overseas are still in full swing.

Every year, the global tournaments allocate spots for each region based on countries and regions, taking into account the basic abilities of the domestic competitions in that region for the current season, as well as the in-game overall KDA as an important indicator.

In previous years, when RS won the domestic championship, the domestic region usually allocated one spot. However, based on this year’s information from various sources, there will be three spots for the domestic region.

But this is not something VIT needs to worry about.

All their preparations, carried out in a tight and orderly manner, are for the final battle against QILIN.

Xiao Yin’s old team.

It was an ordinary, calm, and sunny morning.

At half past six in the morning, Rong Yi got up while Xiao Yin was already practicing.

They each washed up and met at the staircase.

After changing his clothes, Xiao Yin saw that Rong Yi hadn’t eaten yet, so he quickly went to the training room, opened the electric curtains, and let the morning sunlight illuminate every inch of the floor.

Rong Yi, wearing a comfortable long-sleeved cotton T-shirt, sat cross-legged on the gaming chair, turning around to face Xiao Yin.

In the backlight, his dark, tousled hair had a touch of golden glow, and his face appeared somewhat gentle as it was partially concealed in the shadows.

“Auntie and the cafeteria are not working today. Do you want me to make toast for you?” Xiao Yin asked him as she looked at him.

Rong Yi also squinted his eyes at him and replied, “I’ll have another cup of sweet milk, not too sweet, just half a spoon of honey.”

“Alright,” Xiao Yin said, knowing his preferences, and went to the kitchen to make the toast.

Rong Yi spent ten minutes scrolling through his social media feed. Then, he saw Xiao Yin approaching with a plate of ham and egg toast and a glass of milk.

Xiao Yin was wearing a simple home shirt, with the buttons loosely fastened to the second one, appearing casual and relaxed. As he approached, the scent of mint perfume wafted towards Rong Yi, smelling very pleasant.

Rong Yi took a big sip and then grabbed the ham toast directly with his hand.

He noticed that Xiao Yin didn’t take any for himself and tilted his head, asking, “You only made mine? Aren’t you going to eat?”

Xiao Yin didn’t answer immediately. He just smiled at him.

Rong Yi didn’t understand why, but he took a big bite of the toast and suddenly felt something hard in his mouth.

He took it out and held it in his palm. It was a sparkling diamond ring.

Xiao Yin still stood in front of him, still with that same smile.

“If you allow me,” he said, and Rong Yi burst into laughter while shouting, “You’re so cheesy, Young Master Xiao Yin, you’re too cheesy—”

His words didn’t have any effect on Xiao Yin. He smoothly continued, “With this breakfast and this ring, it represents my feelings. Will you marry me?”

“I want to spend the rest of my life with you. I want to embrace you every moment.”

“I know you take the competition seriously and don’t like mixing business and personal matters. That’s why I didn’t propose to you on the night of the championship. I think it would have been disrespectful to both the championship and to you.”

“I chose an ordinary day because if not now, who knows when it will be.”

“The person I love is a workaholic. After the playoffs, there will be the World Championships, and after the World Championships, you’ll be busy with captaincy matters for the new season. I don’t want to wait a single moment longer.”

He switched to a cheesy translation mode, “My darling, my beloved and companion in this industry.”

“You are the most precious gem in my life.”

Everything was ordinary, with the sunlight just right. The breakfast plate on the side still carried the morning glow.

The sunlight cast a golden line on the floor, passing through VIT’s domestic championship trophy, creating a colorful ripple.

Rong Yi reached out his hand.

He said, “I do.”

This was what he wanted.

After a life of wandering, this was all he desired.

Teammates who moved forward carefree and relaxed, and a person to love wholeheartedly, just within reach.

Extraordinarily ordinary.

Extraordinarily happy.

–End of the main text–

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ry’s note:

Finished! °˖✧◝(⁰▿⁰)◜✧˖°

Don’t worry, there’s still an extra chapter to come~

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