Chapter 50 – Etiology

When Cheng Che finished taking a shower and drying his hair, he went to Liu Ying’s room, only to find that Liu Ying had already made the bed.

Wu You sat on the edge of the bed and glanced at his phone, saying, “It’s still early… but it’s already past eleven. Brother Ying, rest soon. We have to go to the hospital tomorrow.”

“Let me check… Weibo.”

[Notification]: The influential figure you follow, @DCT-Stars, has posted a new Weibo update~

Sure enough, Lin Xingling helped him clean up the aftermath.

[DCT-Stars]:

…As expected, ANT-Black’s Nuwa still has the ability to clear the enemy, and DCT-Clear and DCT-460’s actions of protecting the front line and killing enemies are normal operations and do not constitute excessive aggression. [Rose]

“Review of the third week of the regular season, DCT vs ANT, fifth game of the Autumn Tournament”

Stars made an appearance, and more or less, everyone gave them face. First, SYG team’s Charity retweeted, followed by TG team’s Lian Rong. These two are our own people, so it’s not surprising.

Then there were around ten professional players and anchors who played well.

After that, the top commentator Jiang Li followed by the host Duo Tang also retweeted, creating a huge wave that was enough to suppress the trending topics about the Black-ANT.

[Behave (first tone), behave (first tone), behave (fourth tone), Star Daddy triple combo]

[I can’t recognize this word anymore]

[Look at this text… I told that stuttering guy not to recap the match replay for you [Dog head emoji]]

[Courtesy: Are you Clear?]

[Clear: Your father, your mother, your grandmother [Clown emoji]]

[Let me send a voice message: Are you kidding me?]

[Hahaha, I just forgot about that]

“Your mom…”

Cheng Che cursed with a smile, put his phone on the table, and urged Liu Ying to go to bed.

…

That night, Liu Ying slept obediently, lying flat between Cheng Che and Wu You, without anyone hugging him.

Wu You lay on his side and smiled as he looked at Cheng Che. He lowered his voice and said, “Brother Ying doesn’t know who to cuddle with. It’s hilarious. Is this what they call decision paralysis?”

Cheng Che had a relieved expression on his face and said, “That’s good. Last night, I almost… got strangled by him.”

Liu Ying looked innocent and gentle, but he had surprisingly great strength.

He would carry the large barrels of water they usually drink from downstairs, as well as move large parcels and other heavy items.

…He replaced the coach with a bad back and the captain with an injured hand, becoming another pillar of the team.

“I feel sorry for you for a second, and I feel sorry for my Brother Ying for a lifetime.” Wu You sighed softly. “When will this child find someone willing to sleep with him every night…”

“He’s… not even eighteen yet, there’s no need to rush.”

Cheng Che frowned and asked, “Wu You, let me ask you, why would someone… like the same sex?”

“Ask me… I’m a straight guy.” Wu You thought about it seriously and explained, “Well, Brother Ying isn’t a homosexual either. It’s just that this silly boy happens to like someone who is male.”

“Okay.” Cheng Che remained silent.

It made sense to say so. After all, Liu Ying… was innocent and naive, and didn’t seem to know about such matters.

In comparison, he himself… was completely different, incompatible with gambling and drugs.

“But even if he is… first and foremost, he is my Brother Ying. I wouldn’t reject him.” (You)

“I… I’m not rejecting… I’m just… curious.” (Che)

The air conditioner suddenly became colder, and both of them intuitively covered Liu Ying with the quilt.

They didn’t want him to catch a cold.

“Brother Che, I didn’t say anything about you, haha.”

Wu You laughed, “Brother Ying isn’t like that, but our former support player, Hua Xin, was… he’s special, and Fu Cheng fell for him on the day of his trial. They hooked up that night and came out of the closet the next day.”

“Really? A water-like love story?”

Cheng Che’s worldview was shattered.

“No, the two of them, Fu Da Shao and Hua Er Shao, are deeply in love… When I see them, I truly believe in love at first sight. Hey, let me tell you, Ah Hua is definitely my true soulmate.” (You)

…

While the two of them were chatting away, Wu You was startled when Liu Ying suddenly turned over.

Fortunately, Liu Ying wasn’t awakened. He was just half-asleep, moving towards Cheng Che, who was on the inside, and obediently snuggled into his arms.

“Seems like Ying Mei prefers you a bit more.” Wu You smiled. “Well, you could say it was fate with your childhood sweetheart.”

Hearing Wu You’s words, Cheng Che proudly stretched out his arm and embraced Liu Ying, “Well… hey Wu You, you…”

Unexpectedly, Wu You came over and embraced both Liu Ying and him.

“The three of us are the best in the world.”

Wu You held Cheng Che and Liu Ying tightly with one hand.

“Okay, okay, I get it. Loosen up a bit, he’ll wake up… Wake up?”

“Damn it.”

“…”

Being awakened in the middle of the night, Liu Ying found himself in Cheng Che’s arms.

As he turned his head, he saw Wu You, who usually played around with Cheng Che, hugging both Cheng Che and himself tightly.

Seeing this scene as soon as he woke up was quite strange.

Liu Ying didn’t dare to speak.

“Brother Ying, listen to my explanation. I’m just saying that we’re the best in the world.” (You)

“Yes, yes, yes, yes.” (Che)

Liu Ying made a sound of agreement, but his mind became drowsy again after a minute. He closed his eyes and went back to sleep, ignoring them.

After this incident, the two midnight chatters finally quieted down and went to sleep without talking.

…

The next day, two energetic guests and a lethargic host came out of room 505.

There was an indescribable fragrance in Liu Ying’s room. Plus, he had fallen asleep in a corner last night, so Cheng Che and Wu You slept well.

However, Lin Xingling, who was not used to the absence of the well-behaved brat, had dark circles under his eyes.

Phantom: Plus one.

“Captain? Did you stay up late?” Cheng Che didn’t understand.

Lin Xingling shook his head, denying, “No, I didn’t sleep well.”

“I said we’re taking Liu Ying to the hospital today, but what about all of you?” (Che)

Liang Feng, who went for a morning walk and bought breakfast downstairs, came back and saw Lin Xingling and Phantom about to nag, but when he looked at Cheng Che and Wu You, he found them full of spirit, which was somewhat incredible.

“You two are quite energetic, Cheng Che and Wu You.”

Wu You proudly crossed his arms, “Of course.”

“But… he seems weak. Let’s go to the hospital quickly.” Cheng Che glanced at Liu Ying, his eyes filled with worry.

Liu Ying: (* `ˋ*)

Liang Feng said, “Then let’s eat first. After breakfast, who will go to the hospital with me?”

Everyone raised their hands.

“Eat, eat.” (Feng)

…After eating, they went to the hospital.

Liu Ying had his blood drawn and his heart rate checked. While waiting for the results, the group of people even took the opportunity to get a free check-up with the elderly.

When Liu Ying’s test report came out and was shown to the doctor, the doctor quickly glanced at it and determined the cause of the illness: iron-deficiency anemia.

“This is a typical case of iron-deficiency anemia. Here, take some oral iron supplements and vitamin C… Also, remember to eat more animal blood, animal liver, lean meat, sesame, spinach, and the like.”

The doctor adjusted his glasses and wrote a prescription for Liu Ying.

The fonts on it were elegant, but the nurses at the pharmacy counter could always recognize it at a glance.

Knowing the cause and having the medicine, everyone felt relieved.

On the way out of the hospital, Lin Xingling asked a question that no one had thought of, “Why did the anemia worsen starting from yesterday?”

Liu Ying shook his head.

The detective Lin Xingling asked again, “Then, did anything happen that was different from usual the night before yesterday when you woke up with a headache?”

Why was he asking knowingly… Cheng Che said, “I slept with him, and I came back in the middle of the night.”

“Yes!” Lin Xingling snapped his fingers and continued questioning, “Then, Mr. Clear, please answer. What did you do before you came back?”

“I… I helped Liu Ying cover… the blanket?!” Cheng Che suddenly realized, “Damn it, the blanket…”

“It seems… my room’s air conditioner is set on a timer. It automatically stops when I fall asleep, so I didn’t cover the blanket much…” Liu Ying said.

Wu You continued, “Let me explain. Cheng Che didn’t know and thought the air conditioner in Liu Ying’s room would be on all night, so he helped cover the blanket tightly. But when Cheng Che returned to the captain’s room, the air conditioner in Liu Ying’s room automatically turned off…”

“The case is solved. Liu Ying’s oxygen deprivation during the match yesterday was a residual effect of being covered by the blanket the night before yesterday.”

“It’s fortunate that he didn’t have heatstroke.” Liang Feng asked, “Then why is he lacking energy today? Did he cover himself last night as well?”

Liu Ying replied, “No, I just didn’t sleep well.”

The air conditioner was set to turn off automatically, and the two gods wrapped in blankets tossed and turned in bed due to the heat, disturbing Liu Ying.

He couldn’t stand it and ended up hugging a pillow and sleeping in a corner…

Lin Xingling really wanted to say, “Cheng Che, if you can’t sleep well with him, and I can’t sleep well without him here, then why not just let him stay with me?”

“Liu Ying, hu…hug… huh?”

Before Cheng Che could finish his sentence, Liu Ying had already hugged him.

Liu Ying: “Okay, hugs.”

Cheng Che: Does he really think I’m treating him like a short-legged cuddle buddy just because I’m the captain?

“I mea…mean, s-sorry!”

I almost suffocated you the night before yesterday… I’m sorry, I won’t dare to do it again next time.

“It’s okay, it’s okay.” Wu You clapped his hands and then nudged Phantom. “Even Xiao Pei can’t make me sleepy.”

Phantom: “…”

The look that wants to stab someone can’t be concealed.

They are truly a group of energetic young people… Liang Feng smiled as he looked at them.

“The weather is really nice today.” Lin Xingling, who initiated a series of discussions about the cause of Liu Ying’s illness, just marveled at the environment.

Everything is clear, nothing more to say.

After Liu Ying let go of Cheng Che, Cheng Che quickly caught up with him.

Liu Ying, who is still in relatively good spirits, followed behind. “The weather is so nice, shall we go play?”

Wu You raised his hand. “I second that, I, Your Eight Hundred, second that.”

“Let’s… let’s go play.” Cheng Che agreed enthusiastically.

Liang Feng and Lin Xingling glanced at each other and nodded.

“Then let’s go play. Hey… why do you all act like elementary school students? Can’t you go out and play by yourselves without adults accompanying you?” Liang Feng said.

The “elementary school students” referred to by Brother Feng: Liu Ying just wanted some fresh air, Cheng Che wanted to be with Lin Xingling, Phantom didn’t mind, and Wu You really wanted to play.

So Wu You = elementary school student.

“There’s a amusement park over there!” (Ying)

“Hey!” (Che)

“Then let’s go to the amusement park.” (Xing)

“You act like elementary school students, and now you’re acting even more like them, huh?” (Feng)

“…” (Phantom)

“Let’s go to the haunted house!” (You)

Cheng Che, who is afraid of the dark:…

Liu Ying, who is afraid of ghosts:…

Wu You: “Why are you two looking at me with those eyes… It’s creepy.”

Author’s Note:

(ˊ?ˋ*)?

---

Chapter 49 – Winning

“Secure the home first and defend the high ground.”

Lin Xingling controlled Sun Bin[mfn][/mfn] to unleash a powerful ultimate against the Qing soldiers, glancing at the summoner skills and saying, “Interference will be ready in thirteen seconds.”

This match was supposed to have Cleanse, especially since Cheng Che’s Marco Polo[mfn][/mfn] and Phantom’s Ma Chao[mfn][/mfn] relied on his second ability… but Lin Xingling had his own ideas. He wanted to exert more early-game pressure, so he brought Interference.

Unexpectedly, they were being beaten so badly by the opponents that they had to use Interference solely to defend their own towers.

Liu Ying used Diao Chan[mfn][/mfn], a typical mage assassin with strong sustainability and fast wave clear.

Therefore, a large part of the opponents targeted him.

“Be careful, Yanmei, stay back.” (You)

“Mages, retreat.” (Pei)

“Well, I have Twilight to protect us. Don’t worry, I also pre-ordered Resurrection Armor.” (Ying)

Diao Chan: [Twilight – Purchased]

Because they were afraid of being controlled and burst down, Cheng Che took Cleanse for this match. Coupled with Lin Xingling having the Wolf’s Fang Crest and his second ability, they were not weak in later team fights.

DCT cleared the three waves of dragon minions, and ANT couldn’t push any further. After finishing one wave, they could only tactically retreat a bit.

Cheng Che shouted to go for a counter-attack.

Lin Xingling said, “Defend the home, defend the home!!!”

Cheng Che replied, “Defend the damn home! Attack!”

This was a fight they could really engage in. Lin Xingling hesitated for a second and used Wolf’s Fang Crest for them, saying, “Attack! Chase them out!”

“Understood.”

Wu You’s Lu Bu[mfn][/mfn] joined in with his ultimate.

Phantom had already activated Sprint and intercepted the enemy’s top laner, marksman, and support when Cheng Che said to go out and fight. By the time Cheng Che and the others caught up, the enemy jungle mage had also arrived.

It turned into a ten-person team fight.

Phantom used his third ability to teleport in an instant. The two Black’s Nu Wa[mfn][/mfn] had reacted quickly, but they were still two seconds slower than Marco Polo and Sun Bin.

Phantom’s ultimate burst out in rapid succession, and Stars used his ultimate for control, while Clear’s ultimate dealt damage and 460’s ultimate danced…

UU sat down and secured a triple kill.

They didn’t give the opposing trio a chance to react.

“Talented.”

Seeing this, the second Black immediately interrupted Nu Wa’s teleportation.

…

“Xiao You is the one stealing the kills!” (Ying)

“That’s… that’s right.” (Cheng)

“Forget about Nu Wa, we have minion waves. Let’s push the tower!” (Xing)

“…” (Pei)

DCT pushed the second tower in the mid lane.

Wu You suddenly felt emotional and said, “We’re really making dreams come true!”

Liu Ying smiled and replied, “Our original intentions remain unchanged.”

Cheng Che added, “So let’s put it into action.”

Lin Xingling, who had nothing else to say, suddenly thought of something. “I suddenly remembered… Mirage and Graceful Clear.”

This phrase appeared for the first time in this life when he made his debut in a match and saw it in the live chat of the official broadcast room… It said that his playstyle contained the soul of Gong Sunli.

A dance of swords moves in all directions.

Wu You said, “Brother Cheng’s Gong Sunli is indeed amazing, but my most memorable moment is Sun Shangxiang’s pentakill.”

Liu Ying said, “There’s no need for someone to pentakill and cosplay…”

“Well… because he, he joined the team.” (Wu You is referring to Sun Shangxiang)

Cheng Che chuckled and changed the topic, asking Lin Xingling, “I remember it was… it was because of my ID, right?”

Lin Xingling nodded slightly, “I remember it was because of my ID… right?”

In the previous life, the phrase “Child of the Stars” originated from his ID. Later, it became associated with Stars leading the DCT team to victory in the 2018 Autumn Championship, using the hero Yao in the final match.

Child of the Stars – Yao

“Yes, and… you are really skilled in the jungle.”

Cheng Che’s eyes welled up with a hint of acidity.

Stars was truly formidable in the jungle, but unfortunately, they would never see that again in this life…

“I’m also skilled at support.” Lin Xingling smiled.

“Yeah!” (Cheng)

“My Dad Star is the best.” (Wu You)

“…”

While chatting and laughing, the five of them had already destroyed ANT’s middle lane high ground and sent the enemy jungle, who attempted to clear minions, back to the fountain.

Only the second Black’s Nu Wa remained on the opposing side.

Nu Wa used their ultimate to kill the low-health Sun Bin and clear two small minions, leaving only one low-health siege unit.

Marco Polo was furious.

Cheng Che said, “Liu Ying, I’ll take him down. Diao Chan, go!”

Liu Ying hesitated, “This isn’t… okay.”

Diao Chan used her skills to stay close to the minion wave, and Marco Polo followed up with their second ability, dealing a blow to Nu Wa.

Nuwa flashed back to Quan, but was blocked by Marco Polo and attacked by Quan’s side.

[“What is this kid doing? [Facepalm]”]

[“Clear, wake up! Damn, he’s bullying Quan again!”]

[“Oh my, in this lifetime, little brother is bullying Quan.”]

Lin Xingling, whose screen turned black, was speechless with tears in his eyes. “Stop hitting Quan, please!”

[“This is revenge for killing the support! [Dog head]”]

[“Last time it was 460 bullying Quan with God Lian, this time Clear is bullying Quan with the two Blacks… Should I say that the off-team mid-laner is pitiful or should I say it’s DCT’s corporate culture to bully Quan? [Smile]”]

[“I won’t say anything, just take care of yourself. [Chuckles]”]

…

Nu Wa didn’t get killed, and in the end, Phantom and Wu You were the ones who did the actual work, protecting the siege tower and pushing the enemy’s crystal.

“Victory!“

They won 3-2, but it was a close match.

Due to Clear’s suspected Quan bullying behavior in the last game, the barrage in the live chat was already in an uproar, and it had also become a hot topic on Weibo.

Weibo’s trending list, 8th place: [Clear bullies Quan]

It can be said that the pace of the current King’s Circle is divided equally between DCT-Clear and TG-Lian Rong.

Charity: 7-8 million fans, but no trending topic.

Stars: I have 11 million fans, but still no trending topic.

DCT Team: Thank you, we don’t have the money to withdraw the trending topic.

…

The team sent Clear and Stars as representatives for the post-match interview.

The host, A Hua, asked some tricky questions given by the production team, but Lin Xingling calmly responded fluently, while Cheng Che silently acted as a microphone stand in the middle.

The last question was, “Stars mentioned during his transfer that he hopes his future teammates will be well-behaved kids. What do you think now, especially after your marksman bullied Quan?”

Cheng Che understood the implicit meaning and turned to look at her in confusion, while A Hua could only helplessly glance back at him.

There was no choice, work compelled them.

“Well, I quite like the kids now,” Lin Xingling replied.

They may not be well-behaved, but I like them.

[” Dad Star likes the current kids, and Cheng Cheng is one of the current kids, which means Dad Star likes Cheng Cheng~”]

[“Cheng Cheng little brother is not well-behaved. [Laughing and crying]”]

[“Clear: Are you guys deliberately provoking me? [Clown]”]

On the way back home, Lin Xingling rode his electric scooter alone, while Cheng Che said he would accompany Liu Ying on the bus and rest his shoulder on him, but he ended up standing him up.

On the road, Lin Xingling thought about many things, like fountain bullying, and that dirty phrase… but when he got home, he didn’t say anything.

There was nothing much to say about the fountain bullying incident; it happened, Cheng Che apologized voluntarily, and they just needed to pay the fine.

As for the phrase “guard your mother’s home,” the kid was already grown up, and he didn’t need to be so strict with him.

When he got home, he called Cheng Che over and asked him to post an apology on Weibo to ANT.

Cheng Che refused and showed him the explanation he had posted on the bus.

[DCT-Clear]:

It wasn’t Quan bullying; blocking Nu Wa was just to protect the siege tower.

[Rolling eyes and forehead donation·JPG]

This explanation could also be justified… Lin Xingling reluctantly accepted this explanation.

Regardless of the Weibo rumors and speculations, it had nothing to do with them after all, because…

[DCT Esports Club]:

Killing Nuwa, protecting the siege tower… Well, after typing these words, we won’t have any more traffic.

[“Give me Xiao D’s phone number, and I’ll top up your account with 100 yuan”]

[“Really poor… I’m curious if my Cheng brat can eat three meals a day”]

[“Of course he can, otherwise, where would he find the energy to bully Quan? [Chuckling]”]

[“f you have time to bully Clear, you might as well check how many pages are left in your household registration book [Chuckling]”]

[” “Household Registration Book” by DCT-Clear”]

[“Now we’ve gone from being the poorest team in K League A to being the poorest team in KPL”]

[“That’s great, at least we’ve upgraded”]

Poor.

As for Cheng Che, the Moon Sisters, with their two million fans, would attack anyone who criticized his brat, just like when they protected Lian Hua.

C language, mom quotes, household registration book, thick black studies, yin-yang studies… they would go to any lengths.

Although the two Blacks weren’t attacked this time, they were also scared… After getting the coach’s approval, they posted on Weibo to protect themselves.

[ANT-Black’s Nuwa]:

Friendship first, competition second [Handshake]

@DCT-Clear

Cheng Che responded.

[DCT-Clear]: Friendship first [Handshake]

This matter has been settled… Coming and going in a hurry.

However, the question asked by A Hua about “good children” and Lin Xingling’s response made Cheng Che feel sad for a while.

Lin Xingling likes well-behaved people, but he feels that he himself is not well-behaved. Cheng Che sighed and looked at Liu Ying, who was sitting beside him with his face supported, waiting for him to sleep.

Although he was already very sleepy, he still had to wait.

This should be what being good means…

It doesn’t matter what Lin Xingling likes, it has nothing to do with himself!

Cheng Che thought to himself: It must be because he pitied the desolate King Wild who played as a support, so he wanted to pretend to be the kind of person he liked to make him happy. Yes, it must be like this!

After self-indulging for a few minutes, Cheng Che relieved himself and asked Liu Ying to get up and go back to the room.

Liu Ying yawned, “Are you going to… Ah… sleep?”

“You lie down on the bed first, I’ll go… take a shower and come back.” Cheng Che handed his arm to him to hold, then turned and looked at Wu You, who was sitting on the sofa with his legs crossed, playing with his phone. “I’m leaving.”

Wu You said, “Tsk, I’ll go take a shower too.”

Liu Ying said, “I…”

“Liu Ying, you don’t need to shower, just get a good night’s sleep. I think it might be because you didn’t sleep well last night… Tsk, I’ll take you to the hospital tomorrow.” Liang Feng, who was reading a book on the side, said.

They checked his temperature as soon as they returned to the base, and it was normal, there was nothing else unusual, the child was just tired.

But because they were waiting for Cheng Che, they kept urging him several times but he didn’t go to sleep.

“Okay…” Liu Ying nodded obediently.

“Are you going to sleep now? Not going to eat?” Lin Xingling, who was preparing to go to the small kitchen to cook, asked.

The three of them nodded together like three little kittens:

“Not hungry.” “Not eating.” “Hmm.”

Lin Xingling said, “Then take some snacks and put them by the bed in case you get hungry.”

They all agreed in unison, “Okay~”

So the refrigerator was completely emptied.

Lin Xingling:…

…

DCT’s “Three Highs” dinner time.

High cold, tall, high IQ… One person should possess at least two of these qualities.

During this time, Lin Xingling asked the coach how he viewed the incident of bullying the spring water. Liang Feng just sipped his white wine and smiled, “Che has his own thoughts.”

“Yes.”

How could he not have his own thoughts, but some of them were too childish… Lin Xingling frowned and smiled.

Phantom ate silently.

“If only he could be as worry-free as Liu Ying…”

“No.” Before he could finish, Liang Feng shook his head, “Don’t say these things anymore. It will hurt the child’s feelings… Also, ask your own heart what it really thinks.”

Child… well-behaved… Cheng Che…

Cheng Che.

Child, obedient brat, Cheng Che… they are all Cheng Che.

Lin Xingling truly understood.

“Everyone has their own unique qualities, and we shouldn’t try to turn everyone into a stereotype based on one person’s preferences.”

Liang Feng lifted his wine cup and finished it in one gulp.

Not to say it was grand, but indeed chic.

Lin Xingling lowered his eyes, “You see clearly.”

“Not recognizing the true face of Mount Lu,” Liang Feng smiled, “only because I am in this mountain… Come, Xiao Pei, complete the poem.”

Phantom said, “Intoxicated by wine, the mood is dreamlike; during the imperial examination, there is no leisure.”

“…This child, this poem resonates with me.”

Liang Feng had another drink, “After you’ve eaten, go about your own business. I’ll have a little wine, and I’ll wash the dishes tonight.”

“…”

---

Chapter 48 – Sick

Lin Xingling’s “Hmm” kept Cheng Che thinking all night, still unable to understand its meaning.

Hmm… Does it really mean that he likes obedience or is he just appeasing people?

Cheng Che couldn’t understand, he only felt that the thoughts of 21-year-old Stars were as difficult to guess as those of the 24 or 25-year-olds that came after.

The next night, they faced off against ANT.

First, in the first game, Liu Ying’s performance in the mid lane was poor, disrupting the rhythm, and then in the second game, Wu You made mistakes and gave away neutral resources.

The coach heavily criticized the two of them, and as a result, in the third game, Cheng Che kept disappearing, almost causing them to be completely shut out… If it weren’t for Phantom and Lin Xingling stealing the opponent’s resources to barely win a game.

2:1

Both sides returned to the backstage to rest.

Liang Feng didn’t say anything, he took out a box of tea cakes from his pocket and shared them with everyone.

Cheng Che lowered his head in apology.

“You’re not wrong. Only by daring to play and execute can you create miracles…” Liang Feng patted his shoulder and said, “But, if you don’t have any confidence in your heart before going on stage, that’s not called daring to play, that’s recklessness.”

“I understand… I understand.”

Lin Xingling just looked at him gently and smiled.

He has always been like this, not liking to say a lot of words, just smiling, looking at you, and smiling.

“Captain… I definitely won’t make any mistakes in the next game,” Cheng Che lowered his gaze, feeling inexplicably upset.

“Hmm.” Lin Xingling unscrewed the lid of the thermos cup and handed it over. “Do you want some water?”

Looking at the steam rising from the cup, Cheng Che shook his head from the bottom of his heart.

Why would anyone start drinking hot water in September!

Liu Ying propped up his face, his eyes filled with exhaustion.

“…Can we win two more games and go back to sleep?”

Since he woke up this morning, he had been feeling tired, his head was heavy, and there was always a white light in front of his eyes… He thought it was a cold and took two pills, but they didn’t work.

He didn’t want to worry his teammates, so he didn’t say anything and insisted on coming to the match.

Fortunately, he only felt uncomfortable in the first game, and gradually got better in the second and third games.

“Why does this kid look a bit listless…” Liang Feng reached out and touched his forehead, puzzled. “But he’s not running a fever?”

Wu You frowned. “He must have been scared by Brother Che last night. Brother Che insisted on taking him to watch a horror movie. I could hear Brother Ying screaming and crying in his room.”

“Don’t… don’t talk nonsense,” Cheng Che pushed him.

“La la la, I didn’t.”

Wu You made a face at him.

When Phantom pulled him closer, Wu You finally quieted down.

“I’m fine, really.” Liu Ying sat obediently on the sofa, looking up at them with eyes that had turned into slits from smiling.

His face looked a little flushed… not a natural redness, but a kind of indescribable sickly beauty.

Lin Xingling put down the thermos cup and walked over to him, lowering her head to touch his forehead, unaware of anything unusual.

“Are you cold? Tired? Headache?”

Cheng Che on the side:…

“Not cold… just a little tired, but it’s okay. I’ll sleep after the match…”

Liu Ying got up and moved away from him, walking towards Cheng Che while holding his hand.

Truly my good buddy… Cheng Che patted his head gently and said softly, “Play well, and if we win… I’ll let you lean on my shoulder.”

“Okay!”

Liu Ying happily hugged Cheng Che’s arm, looking completely different.

Liang Feng on the side:…

“Why are you three suddenly acting so gay? Ha ha, forgive me for being blunt, but it’s like a triangular love affair with two tops and one bottom…”

Lin Xingling:…

Cheng Che:…

Liu Ying: (* `ˋ*)

“Come, Brother Ying, come over here, don’t stand next to the ADC support, it’s dangerous there, not suitable for you.” Wu You spread open his arms. “Come, hug with You.”

Liu Ying let go of Cheng Che’s arm.

Let go.

Let go.

“Huh?!”

Cheng Che looked at the helpless Liu Ying, completely confused, as he took a few small steps and went towards Wu You.

When Liu Ying reached his side, Wu You said, “Never mind, I was just kidding. Come here, let You hug you!”

Liu Ying pouted dissatisfiedly.

Look at Phantom…

Phantom opened his arms.

Wu You: “Hey hey hey, just kidding. Come, let You hug you!”

Phantom chuckled, “…”

Staring at the scene, Liang Feng exclaimed, “You guys…”

Oh no, why do I have a feeling that our team is doomed to extinction?

Lin Xingling sat on the armrest of the sofa, watching them playfully.

…After being teased around, Liu Ying’s spirits seemed to have improved.

Wu You cleaned his ears and raised an eyebrow at Cheng Che, “See, childhood friends are no match for a sudden encounter.”

It should be a sudden encounter overpowering childhood friends, but in Liu Ying’s mind, no one could surpass Lian Rong… Cheng Che pondered over many things but only stomped his foot and said, “Liu Ying is…a little traitor!”

Confused, Liu Ying looked over at them.

“Little traitor?” Wu You shook his head, “He may be younger, but he’s taller than you. How can you call him a little traitor~”

“…” Cheng Che clenched his fist and gestured towards him.

Liang Feng coughed, “A gentleman uses his mouth, not his fists.”

Cheng Che widened his eyes, “This…this is unfair!”

“If you want fairness, let’s compete on the stage.” Wu You snapped his fingers, “In the fourth game, let’s see who is the MVP, okay?”

“If…if I win, um…you have to accompany Liu Ying to sleep tonight,” Cheng Che said.

Wu You replied, “I was thinking the same thing.”

Looking at Liu Ying’s weak appearance, he would definitely cling to someone tonight.

Cheng Che & Wu You: It’s definitely not me!!!

Liu Ying: (* `ˋ*)

Liu Ying lightly opened his thin lips and said leisurely, “If I become the MVP, both of you have to accompany me…”

Lin Xingling: “Ah…”

Before he could say anything, Cheng Che interrupted, “Count…count me as well, Captain.”

Wu You didn’t want to be outdone, “And count Xiao Pei for me.”

They looked at Phantom, whose eyes were sparkling, making it hard to refuse.

Phantom: “Hmm.”

Liu Ying: How can you guys be like this!

Wu You & Cheng Che: Did you just realize that on the first day?

“It’s okay, I’ll pick a good one for you during the draft.”

Liang Feng poked Liu Ying’s arm and smiled, “After all, we should let our team’s most obedient child get the MVP.”

Obedient child…another obedient child…

Cheng Che sighed.

The fourth game was a true comeback match.

The ANT team had no idea what kind of opponents they were about to face.

DCT was on the red side, so they had to wait for ANT to ban and pick first.

ANT banned Da Qiao, and DCT banned Dun Shan.

ANT banned Pei Qinhu, and DCT banned Lu Bu.

Next, ANT picked Xiahou Dun[mfn][/mfn].

Phantom picked Lian Po[mfn][/mfn] for himself and Donghuang Taiyi[mfn][/mfn] for Lin Xingling.

ANT picked Sun Shangxiang[mfn][/mfn] and Taiyi Zhenren[mfn][/mfn].

Phantom: I’ll pick Bai Lishouyue[mfn][/mfn] for Clear.

Clear: ????

It was well known that Bai Lishouyue was a mysterious hero, requiring good hand control and prediction. Even in the hands of professional players, there was no guarantee that they could fully unleash its carrying potential.

Cheng Che expressed, “Damn it!”

If I am guilty, please let the law punish me instead of the coach rewarding me with a Bai Lishouyue for winning the MVP bet.

Although I am happy, it seems unlikely that I will get the MVP this round.

In the second ban phase, Hanzo, Zhou Yu, Gan Jiang Mo Ye, and Shangguan Wan’er were banned.

The four mages cried in the ban room.

ANT picked Wang Zhaojun[mfn][/mfn].

DCT locked in Wu Zetian[mfn][/mfn] and Tachibana Ukyo[mfn][/mfn].

ANT chose Han Xin[mfn][/mfn] as the jungler.

As the match started, Ukyo successfully countered blue buff with the assistance of Taiyi Zhenren.

At two and a half minutes into the game, Bai Lishouyue secured first blood.

Cheng Che smiled and said, “What can Wu You use to compete with me?”

As soon as he finished speaking, Wu You and Phantom confronted and killed the enemy ADC and support in the bottom lane, giving the double kill to Wu You.

Lin Xingling said, “Be careful and retreat.”

Liu Ying cleared minions, farmed, and reached level four… Then, with his second ultimate ability, he controlled three enemies and secured a triple kill.

Cheng Che exclaimed, “Go, go for the kills!”

Wu You said, “Liu Ying is really good at securing kills!”

“Wu Zetian relies on her skills,” Liu Ying roamed to support and successfully eliminated an enemy with low health.

The five members of ANT were confused and overwhelmed in this game.

Once again, they were wiped out by Wu Zetian’s ultimate ability. The mid-laner of ANT, Erhei, frowned and said, “460… Tsk.”

Liu Ying didn’t know if it was due to his poor performance in the first three games or for some other reason, but he was well aware of the sense of oppression in this game, just like the one he felt from God Lian on the field that day.

Soft yet strong, agile like a rabbit.

He wanted to hold him in the palm of his hand, but he slipped away like flowing sand.

“Victory!“

The fourth game started amidst cheers and laughter, and it ended in the same atmosphere.

The commentator, Jiang Li, announced that the MVP of DCT was the mid-laner 460.

Wu Zetian’s record: 7/1/5, ranked third in gold earned, with a damage output ratio of 47.6%.

After taking off their headsets, Liu Ying’s teammates, Cheng Che and Wu You, almost collapsed onto their gaming chairs at the same time.

“Help… Someone save poor You.”

Lin Xingling looked at them amusingly and said, “What’s the big deal about sleeping? Hurry up and leave.”

It’s terrifying. You have no idea how terrifying it is to sleep with Liu Ying… Cheng Che thought to himself.

But then he saw Wu You making a “I understand” expression.

Wu You: I’ve slept with him… Ah, no, I mean I slept in the same room with him, the whole night! Liu Ying is scarier than anyone else, and I understand him better than anyone else!!!

…

The fifth game was a battle of frustration.

For most of the first thirteen minutes, ANT was in control, slowly taking down DCT’s first and second towers, leaving only three high ground towers.

Meanwhile, ANT lost only one bottom lane tower.

Around sixteen minutes into the game, Liu Ying suddenly knocked his head on the table.

Cheng Che and the others hurriedly put down their devices and went to support him, rubbing his face and patting his forehead… Fortunately, he was conscious and there was nothing serious.

There was an uproar from the audience.

Lin Xingling requested a pause.

“…It’s fine, let’s finish this game, I’m fine.”

After both sides confirmed, the referee used Time Wave Fluctuation to rewind the game to sixteen minutes.

After Cheng Che was resurrected, he was instantly focused and killed, and Lin Xingling, who was desperate to save the AD carry, was also left behind by the enemy.

The enemy’s ADC and support rushed to the mid lane high ground, while the jungler and mage exerted pressure on the top lane.

In the midst of danger, Liu Ying’s Diao Chan[mfn][/mfn] saved the day, taking down the enemy top laner and support with a single dance, but the enemy ADC flashed away.

“Liu Ying, 666,” Wu You praised.

Cheng Che asked worriedly, “Are you okay now?”

Phantom asked, “How do you feel?”

“Let’s fight well… We can’t lose,” Liu Ying clenched his teeth despite the headache, “I’m perfectly fine.”

Brave Liu Ying, unafraid of difficulties.

…

“Triple Kill!“

“Your team has reclaimed the crucial kill.“

DCT once again attempted to push forward but was pushed back by the enemy.

The enemy ADC secured a triple kill, and Wu You’s Dominance was stolen by the enemy jungler.

A return to square one…

---

Chapter 47 – Afraid of Ghosts

Liu Ying’s beautiful photos, along with Lian Rong’s pants, trended all night and remained highly popular. However, the next day, TG urgently handled the public relations and took down the hot search.

On DCT’s side, there was no cold response whatsoever.

…

Liu Ying, who lazed in bed until noon, was pleasantly surprised to receive a friend request from Lian Rong during lunch at the hotel with everyone.

[[New friend request] TG-Lian Rong: Hello, fellow mid-laner! I wanted to add you last night, but I was afraid you were already resting, so I didn’t. Hmm, you should be awake now, right?]

The message exuded warmth and tenderness between the lines. The mid-laner was instantly captivated.

Clicking to accept the friend request, Liu Ying added the note: “Dear God Lian.”

[TG-Lian Rong: Is it Liu Ying, fellow student? [Heart]]

[Don’t have 460: Yes, yes!]

…

[TG-Lian Rong: You played well in the last match. Let’s continue to work hard in the future.]

[TG-Lian Rong: We both play mid-lane, so feel free to ask me anything you don’t understand. [Hug]]

[Don’t have 460: Thank you, God Lian!]

Liu Ying bit his lip, tears streaming down his face.

He had liked him for two years, and this was the first time he had a conversation with him.

Previously, he had only left one-sided comments and silently followed him in inconspicuous places, treasuring everything about him…

Feeling sad and somewhat aggrieved.

Is this the feeling of successfully chasing after a star? It’s strange.

Cheng Che earnestly ate his fish, but unexpectedly, when he looked up, he saw Liu Ying beside him shedding tears.

He furrowed his brows and handed him a tissue, saying, “Wipe… What happened to you?”

“Brother Che… God Lian added me, and we exchanged a few words. I-I’m so happy, wuwuwu…” Liu Ying didn’t take the tissue, instead, he leaned his body against Cheng Che’s shoulder, sobbing.

He looked just like a drooping white rabbit.

Cheng Che:…

“Isn’t this… a good thing? Why are you crying as if Lian Rong died?” Cheng Che asked, puzzled.

“That’s not it… wuwu… It’s been two years, and it has been so difficult for me…” The white rabbit tightly held onto Cheng Che’s arm.

“Cough…”

Lin Xingling turned his face and gestured for him to be quiet. “Kid, say a little less.”

Phantom was unfazed by the situation.

Wu You drank Sprite from a disposable cup, finished it in one gulp, and burped. “We just became friends, sigh… The revolution is not yet successful; Brother Ying still needs to work hard.”

Work hard my ass… Cheng Che thought to himself. He absolutely couldn’t let Liu Ying be with that Lian Rong.

Even if Liu Ying liked men… There are so many men in the world, and Lian Rong is not the only one.

Moreover, only a good character, good looks, and good skills can be worthy of Liu Ying; in that case, what is Lian Rong?

“I feel so sad; I don’t want to work hard anymore…”

If you don’t want to work hard, then don’t. Cheng Che looked at Liu Ying, who was using his right arm as a pillow, and he could only see the top of his head:

“Could you… let go of my arm first?”

Liu Ying released his grip, his eyes already red, tears swirling in his eyes.

Seeing Cheng Che in such a state was unprecedented. “Forget it, you can… continue to hug.”

“Mhm…” Liu Yang obediently hugged him again.

Liang Feng jokingly said, “Only you dare to act spoiled with your Brother Che. If it were Xiao You, he would probably be thrown on the ground by now.”

“Coach, don’t tease me. Tease Dad Xing.” Wu You put a piece of meat into the dipping sauce.

After hearing that, Lin Xingling immediately tilted his head and made a quiet gesture towards him. “Kid, say that to me.”

Wu You stuffed the meat into his mouth and dipped it into the sauce.

Lin Xingling nodded and said, “Like how you do it with Brother Ying, hold him tight.”

Cheng Che smiled helplessly. “Captain, I still need to… eat.”

“Eat, eat.”

Lin Xingling sat up straight, giving a thumbs-up to Wu You. “Did you see that, Xiao You?”

The competitiveness of men.

Wu You replied, “You’re amazing, I admire you.”

Lin Xingling crossed his arms. “I’m awesome, I’m impressive.”

Liu Ying rested his fluffy head against his arm, feeling a bit tingly… The crucial point was that he was so well-behaved, not moving at all, making people reluctant to disturb him.

Cheng Che held the chopsticks in his left hand and tried to pick up a piece of fish, but his hand was clumsy, and he couldn’t manage it.

After several unsuccessful attempts, Cheng Che tightened his grip on the chopsticks.

Chopsticks: Danger!!!

“Here,” just as Cheng Che was about to get angry, Lin Xingling picked up a piece of fish and fed it to him, saying, “You’ve done well by letting Liu Ying use your arm as a pillow. Have a piece of fish.”

Seeing Cheng Che hesitate, Lin Xingling explained, “I removed the bones.”

That’s about right. Cheng Che opened his mouth and ate it in one bite.

…Delicious.

“Liu Ying, continue to… hug me for a while longer. I’m too lazy to… find faults.”

This move by Liu Ying was equivalent to a divine assist…

It had been six days since Liu Ying added Lian Rong to his friends list. The team was about to face their third opponent, ANT, in the first round of the regular season of the autumn tournament.

During this period, the coach took everyone to the hospital to visit the former AD carry of the team, Xiao Nuo. Xiao Nuo looked fine, and he had a long chat with Liu Ying…

They only left reluctantly when the nurse came in and said he needed rest.

On the way back, Cheng Che asked Lin Xingling what illness Xiao Nuo had, and Lin Xingling replied that it was a problem in his head.

“Is it serious?” Cheng Che inquired.

Lin Xingling patted his head and said, “Hmm.”

Problems in the head are definitely serious… Cheng Che frowned, “Will it… endanger his life?”

“If it’s severe… but not necessarily.”

Lin Xingling lowered his gaze, “I have a friend who also has some issues in his head, but he’s still lively and even participates in matches.”

Cheng Che’s heart was being tugged, “Who… who is it?”

“You should know him, Charity.”

Chen Enci?!

Cheng Che shook his head, “No, it can’t be. What… what illness does Charity have?”

Lin Xingling smiled, “Brain damage.”

“…” Cheng Che suddenly burst into laughter.

“Live your life well and be happy.”

Sometimes having too much empathy isn’t a good thing; it adds unnecessary worries.

Lin Xingling wanted him to forget his sorrows and just be happy.

Easier said than done.

“God Lian sent me a message asking me to work hard in the match and strive for victory!”

On the evening before DCT’s match against ANT, Liu Ying was jumping around because of a message from Lian Rong.

So happy, I should send a few more messages to Brother Che~

Cheng Che, who was practicing in the training room:…

He handed his phone to Lin Xingling and rolled up his sleeves, ready to go out and teach the rabbit a lesson.

“Where are you going?” (Xing)

“To… get a bottle of water.” (Che)

Three minutes later, in the living room…

“What are you doing? What… what… wuwuwu!”

The sound of crying made Wu You come out to see, “Tsk tsk, Brother Che, you’re really ruthless.”

Ruthless = pinning Liu Ying on the sofa and playing a horror movie for him.

The living room was dark, with only the TV screen illuminating the room.

The background sound effects of the horror movie were eerie, as if something scary could jump out at any moment.

“You still… can’t handle it?” Cheng Che asked with a smile, intending to scare him a bit.

Little did he know that his reflection on Liu Ying’s face was scarier than the horror movie on the TV.

Liu Ying sniffled and said with a tearful voice, “No…”

Suddenly, the TV screen turned into static, flickering, and then a disheveled female ghost approached the camera!!!

“Ah—”

“Ah ah ah!!!”

Liu Ying screamed even more horrifically than in the movie.

“Dmn…” Cheng Che was shocked and his ears hurt, “Liu Ying, Liu Ying, don’t be afraid, I’m here.”

“…You’re a bad person.”

Yes… he was a bad person for joking about the thing Liu Ying was most afraid of.

Brother Feng and the others were scared by the scream and came out to inquire about the situation. Cheng Che casually brushed them off with a “We were just playing around.”

The training room had good soundproofing, otherwise, Lin Xingling might have been disturbed too.

The immediate priority was to comfort Liu Ying and prevent him from crying any further. The rest could be dealt with later… Cheng Che silently planned in his mind for his mistake.

Liu Ying: “…(sniffs)”

…

After finishing the game in the peak competition, Lin Xingling went out to find Cheng Che.

The living room was pitch dark, but when he turned on the light switch, he saw Cheng Che sitting on the sofa, handing tissues to Liu Ying one by one.

“I wondered why you didn’t come back for such a long time. Did you provoke Liu Ying again?”

Cheng Che shook his head and looked at Liu Ying beside him.

“It’s nothing.”

Liu Ying bit his lip to hold back his tears.

Strange… Lin Xingling returned the phone to Cheng Che and sat next to Liu Ying, asking him, “It’s okay, tell me if there’s anything. I’ll handle him for you.”

Cheng Che: Danger!!!

Cheng Che stood up, wanting to escape.

Lin Xingling said, “Sit here.”

Cheng Che:…

He obediently sat back down.

“It’s really nothing.” Liu Ying’s voice had a nasal tone, “It’s just… I’m especially scared of ghosts… Can we not use horror movies or anything to scare me in the future…”

Afraid of ghosts…

Lin Xingling asked, “Did Brother Che scare you with a horror movie?”

Cheng Che waved his hand, “No, it’s nothing.”

Liu Ying also shook his head.

However, no matter how much they denied it, Lin Xingling was certain about this matter. It was a done deal.

But what made him suspicious was not that, but rather: How did Cheng Che know that Liu Ying was afraid of ghosts?

Liu Ying was the type of person who never shared his worries, so logically, he wouldn’t have told Cheng Che… Besides, Lin Xingling only found out now that Liu Ying was afraid of ghosts…

In their past lives, Liu Ying and Cheng Che had such a close relationship and spent a lot of time together, so Cheng Che should have known, right?

Past lives…

Could it be that there really was a telepathic connection between mid laners and marksman?

The more he thought about it, the more confused he became. It was better to stop thinking about it altogether.

With a command from Lin Xingling, “Alright, if there’s nothing else, go to sleep.”

…

At one o’clock in the morning, Liu Ying came out of Room 505, hugging a pillow, and knocked on the door of Room 508.

Lin Xingling opened the door for him, asking, “What’s wrong?”

“Captain, I’m scared…”

Just after watching a few minutes of a horror movie, everything around him turned into ghosts.

“You’re afraid to sleep alone, right?” (Xing)

“Yeah…” (Ying)

“Hmm, hey, what are you doing?!”

The soundly sleeping Cheng Che was abruptly awakened and taken away.

Lin Xingling’s father’s words were, “You caused the trouble, so you fix it yourself. Tonight, go and sleep with Liu Ying.”

Cheng Che: QWQ

…Liu Ying was a restless sleeper, tossing and turning in someone’s embrace.

Cheng Che had witnessed this before, so tonight, he didn’t dare to close his eyes even for a moment. He only let go of Liu Ying when he fell asleep.

He covered him with the blanket to keep him warm.

“Mmm…”

Liu Ying seemed to be dreaming of something delicious and smacked his lips.

[DCT-Clear: Mission accomplished.]

[DCT-Stars: [Thumbs up]]

[DCT-Clear: Requesting to rejoin the team.]

[DCT-Stars: [Hug]]

Lin Xingling didn’t sleep. Cheng Che went back to his own bed and laid down, feeling comfortable.

“Captain.” (Che)

“Yeah?” (Xing)

Cheng Che sighed and said, “I want… I want to ask you something.”

“Go ahead.”

Cheng Che asked, “Is it… that all of you, all of you really like Liu Ying because he’s… cute?”

“Everyone has their own preferences.”

Lin Xingling smiled and replied, “Liu Ying is a good kid.”

“Do you like… good, good kids?” Cheng Che wrapped himself tighter in his blanket.

“Yeah.”

Author’s Note:

[Mini Theater] – Ghost Encounter

In the midst of playing in the peak competition,

Han Xin, the jungler, kept farming in the jungle and didn’t care about the lanes.

Cat che: Are you damn stuck in the jungle, running into ghost walls?

Liu Ying: Ghost?!

Liu Ying: (* ` 0 ˋ*) Help, help, QWQ!!!

---

Chapter 46 – Photo

According to the unwritten rules of KPL, if a player achieves a pentakill in a match, they need to cosplay as the hero who achieved the pentakill.

After the DCT team finished the game, they didn’t celebrate and went straight back to their team. Wu You and Cheng Che were happily browsing on a certain online platform to pick a cosplay outfit of Shiranui Mai for Liu Ying.

Liu Ying looked somewhat helpless on the side.

“How can you not be happy after getting a pentakill?” Lin Xingling gave him a candy and patted his head. “It’s just wearing a… ah, cosplay outfit. It’s fine, Shiranui Mai looks beautiful.”

Cheng Che nodded and brought his phone closer to show Liu Ying. “Look, we specifically picked one with a flat chest for you.”

What a provocative statement…

Lin Xingling gave him a light tap on the head.

“Why are you hitting me?” Cheng Che stared at him discontentedly.

Wu You chimed in, “Because you’re not obedient.”

Phantom coughed…

Lin Xingling: …

“Patting your little head is a sign of intelligence.”

“That’s fake.” Cheng Che shook his head and said, “If you pat someone too much, they’ll become stupid.”

Liu Ying: Stunned…

Cheng Che said, “Look at how you’ve made Liu Ying stupid by patting him too much.”

Deep Freeze Bar… Wu You struggled to hold back his laughter.

Such childishness… Lin Xingling had to appease him again, “Okay, okay, I won’t pat your heads anymore.”

Being as mean as Cheng Che, of course, he didn’t agree, “No, you should pat Wu You’s head more. Anyway… he’s dumb, he’s not afraid of being stupid.”

Wu You: Meow meow meow?

“Alright, alright, once you’ve made your choice, go ahead and place the order.”

The hamster quickly changed the topic.

…Choice made, order placed.

Since they were in the same city, the clothes arrived the next afternoon, very quickly.

The moment Liu Ying opened the package, he wanted to throw the box away: Help! Can I still change my mind now?

His dear teammates made him realize with their abilities what it meant when it’s “too late,” “even if you don’t want to wear it, you still have to,” “listen and obey hmm”… “Sister Ying, you’re so beautiful, I want to be your husband” “Dmn.”

Phantom’s “Dmn” was quite perceptive, as it surprised Liu Ying, who was wearing the enchanting Shiranui Mai cosplay.

“Xiao Pei, are you an interjection or a verb?” Wu You teasingly asked.

“What nonsense are you talking about?”

Lin Xingling tapped him on the back of his head and whispered a criticism.

In the future, it might be necessary for Brother Feng to add a fourth chapter to the team’s regulations: “Pay attention to your words, no inappropriate remarks.”

“…” Phantom turned his head to the side, but everyone could still see his fair face turning red.

Not just him, anyone would think Liu Ying looked beautiful.

Xiao Pei said… Dmn?

Having received such a comment right after leaving the room, Liu Ying awkwardly scratched his face with his index finger.

“Don’t think too much…” Phantom felt it necessary to explain, “Beautiful, especially stunning.”

Having just been scolded, Wu You said, “Yes, especially beautiful!”

Lin Xingling gave him two thumbs up. “Yes, how does that saying go? It’s very authentic.”

That statement was obviously a blatant lie… Shiranui Mai is more of an elegant type, while Liu Ying can at best be considered a cute girl.

Even Liang Feng, who was usually uninterested in such matters, praised, “Looks good, aim to wear it next time.”

If you can achieve a pentakill every day, I’ll weld the skirt onto you.

Is that so…

Liu Ying looked at Cheng Che, hoping for some compliments.

Cheng Che made a heart gesture at him. “Naturally beautiful. Um… it would be even better if there’s a guardian angel by your side.”

“The ‘naturally beautiful’ line took all of Brother Che’s strength, and then he started to stutter again.”

Wu You said, “Our atmosphere destroyer is online.”

A guardian angel, huh? We might have one in the future.

Liu Ying uncomfortably adjusted his sleeve. “Once the photos are taken, can I change out of the clothes?”

Everyone nodded.

Phantom brought the shooting equipment over and took photos, portraits, and vlogs. He was exceptionally professional.

After everything was recorded and photographed, Liu Ying wanted to quickly change his clothes, but Wu You insisted on taking a group photo, saying that they would show it to their parents when they went home for the Chinese New Year.

“Brother Ying, relax a bit and don’t choke my neck. It’s too tight, I might die.” (You)

“Okay…” (Ying)

After taking a princess carry photo with Wu You, Liu Ying expressed, “I should change out of the clothes quickly.”

Little did he know, Cheng Che also joined in, insisting on lifting him up with one hand.

Liu Ying: (* `ˋ*)

Liu Ying obediently raised his hands for Cheng Che to hold his waist, and Cheng Che lifted him up with one hand and spun him around.

So, when Phantom edited the vlog, he had an extra material to work with.

You could barely hold Liu Ying with both hands, but I lifted him up with just one hand… Cheng Che showed off, saying, “Wu You, you’re really… really weak.”

“I seriously suspect that Brother Cheng has selective stuttering.” Wu You raised his middle finger at him. “Every time he insults me, the stutter is added to interjections.”

“Who… who told you to always laugh at my… my height.”

Cheng Che sneered, thinking to himself that he didn’t want to say some particularly malicious insults to you, that’s all.

This time, it hit the nail on the head… Wu You said, “Seriously, the scallions in Shandong are 1.72 meters tall. Is there anyone shorter than scallions?”

Liu Ying replied, “…I am about the same height as scallions.”

Cheng Che turned his face to Lin Xingling, complaining in a grievous tone, “Listen, he’s specifically targeting me.”

“Behave, everyone,” Lin Xingling just laughed.

A bowl of rice was served evenly.

…

Photos of Liu Ying cosplaying as Mai Shiranui and filming vlogs with the skin of Meiyu[mfn][/mfn] were posted on the official Weibo account of the DCT team.

Within a moment, the number of reposts exceeded tens of thousands, and the comments reached hundreds of thousands.

Most of them were without pants.

[Liu Ying looks so beautiful, I want to ** him]

[Don’t even think about it, Liu Ying is in my bed right now]

[Those eyes, that neck, those collarbones, that waist, those legs, that… [lewd]]

In response to this, the official DCT account replied, [Long-legged Xiao D: I tripped over your pants as soon as I came here [wiping sweat].]

There were also some unique comments:

[He cosplays as Mai Shiranui, and Brother cosplays as Princess Tai Ping]

[My Pei Shen has excellent photography skills [thumbs up]]

[After watching the vlog: Liu Ying is so sweet, Cheng Che and Xiao You spoil him, I can ship them and support them]

[Hilarious, Lin Xingling and Brother Feng have the expression of ‘I don’t understand’]

…

Liking, commenting, and reposting is normal.

What’s abnormal is the people who are doing these actions.

[TG-Lian Rong]:

Beautiful little brother [heart]

「Repost Weibo—DCT Esports Club: “Returning victorious with a pentakill, the young man wears his battle robe”」

In the comment section:

[God Lian, put on some pants]

[LSP, don’t think you can go without pants just because you’re a god [dog head]]

[Help, everyone loves our Liu Yong hahaha]

Having read up to this point, Chen Enci couldn’t bear it anymore:

[SYG-Charity]: The beautiful little brother who was beaten up and lying on the ground, put on some pants, bro [eating melon]

Even Rong replied:

[TG-Lian Rong]: Wear your underwear on your head [rolling eyes]

Your mother…

Lin Xingling saw it while lying in bed at night and burst into laughter.

He, Lian Rong, and Chen Enci were once the SYG’s iron triangle, one was the Wild King, one was the Law King, and one was the Brilliant Mind.

The triangle had stability, and their relationship was particularly strong.

However, later on, the Wild King became a teaching assistant in K-Jia, and the Law King transferred to TG, leaving only the Brilliant Mind as the pillar of the SYG team, becoming their last hope.

However… no matter what, the three of them still maintained contact privately. Being in different teams didn’t affect their friendship, which was as strong as ivy.

The large group chat for casual conversations in the SYG team had a unique name: 【Kill one and lose one, one less】.

When abbreviated, it was all SYG.

This thing was decided by the three of them together at that time. After the transfer, they left the team chat and other groups, but they couldn’t bear to leave this one.

In the group chat, Lin Xingling constantly mentioned Lian Rong.

Liang Feng, who was in a room separated by a corridor from him, said:

[Brother Feng: What’s wrong?]

Chen Enci, who knew the situation, replied:

[Big cousin Xiao Noumi: @Stars, I understand, I’ll help you out.]

[Big cousin Xiao Noumi: @Lian Rong, come out quickly and get beaten up, hahaha~]

[Lian Rong: ?]

[Stars: Why did you repost my mid laner? [smile]]

[Bother Feng: I also want to ask.]

Chen Enci, the spectator, said:

[Big cousin Xiao Noumi: You were told not to wear pants, and now you’re publicly punished~]

It’s too late, and there aren’t many active people in the group. Even if there are, they are just bystanders who are curious about others’ affairs.

[Lian Rong: It looks good, so I reposted it. [Scratches head]]

[Stars: I don’t believe it! [Stares]”]

[Sharp: I don’t believe it either!! [Stares]]

[Big cousin Xiao Noumi: Add me too!!! [Stares]]

Lian Rong’s rebellious spirit instantly ignited:

[Lian Rong: Not only did I repost it, but wait, I’ll immediately follow his page and like all of his Weibo posts~ [Hmph]]

On the other side, Lin Xingling’s plan to instigate was successful.

This is all thanks to Chen Enci’s cleverness in causing chaos and being an idle onlooker… Liu Ying should be happy for a while, good boy.

…

Lian Rong did as he said and immediately followed Liu Ying, liking every Weibo post he made.

Suddenly, he received hundreds of message notifications. After Liu Ying read them, he was scared and pinched his face: It hurts, it’s not a dream.

…God Lian followed me and read all of my Weibo posts?!

Happily, Xing Xing sent a message to his dear brother.

[Don’t have 460: Did Brother Che sleep?]

[DCT-Clear: No, the captain’s grandmother keeps laughing like he’s eating shit, turning his back to me. He woke me up twice, and I ignored him… Next time, I’ll kill him!”

Brother Che was online and irritable.

[Don’t have 460: Don’t get angry, look at this, God Lian followed me and even liked my Weibo posts! [Screenshot]]

When Cheng Che saw the message, his mind exploded:

[DCT-Clear: He has a girlfriend.]

There was no reply from the other side. He probably went to share his joy with someone else.

“Dmn it…”

Cheng Che opened the Weibo app and received only one message: Lian Rong, the Ocean King, liked and reposted Liu Ying’s cosplay photos and started following him…

Damn it, this is clearly a script of a scumbag Ocean King deceiving a pure-hearted young boy’s feelings!

“…Huh?”

Lin Xingling was scrolling through Weibo and suddenly felt a chill on his neck. He turned his head in confusion, “What’s wrong, brat?”

“I, I have something to tell you.” Cheng Che looked serious, as if the sky was about to fall and he needed to discuss something with him.

Lin Xingling: ?

“Yeah, go ahead, speak.”

“Lian Rong, he, he followed Liu Ying. What, what should we do?”

Cheng Che frowned, displeased, “That scumbag, he has a girlfriend and still… still wants to pursue my Liu Ying.”

“Cough…” Lin Xingling rolled over, smiling as he explained, “I asked him to follow. Also, he’s not a scumbag, he’s very serious.”

“Huh?” Cheng Che had a face of not understanding.

Lin Xingling sighed, “Liu Ying is younger than you by a year. He’s just a child who doesn’t even know what love is… His admiration for Lian Rong is nothing more than an idol’s fan.”

Then he added, “I think it’s okay for him to have some contact with Lian Rong and then guide him a bit, so he’ll realize that he doesn’t actually like Lian Rong… What do you think?”

Cutting off the roots and killing the heart, sure, I like that.

Cheng Che nodded, “Yeah, yeah!”

“But… he really is… a scumbag.”

Lian Rong is easygoing and doesn’t have an attitude, but Cheng Che just thinks he’s a scumbag.

…Maybe it’s because when they were in TG, none of the girlfriends he introduced to him lasted more than a month.

Lin Xingling smiled and didn’t argue with him.

“Put away your phone and go to sleep, okay? You shouldn’t stay up so late anymore.”

Cheng Che lowered the temperature of the air conditioner by two degrees with the remote control. “It’s actually you… you’re not sleeping. I… I’m already tired.”

“Alright, alright, from now on, I won’t delay your sleep… Sleeping more at night can help you grow taller.” Lin Xingling raised his hand and ruffled Cheng Che’s hair, smiling tenderly.

“Yes! Don’t delay my… my height growth!” Cheng Che wrapped himself tighter in the blanket and turned to the side, not looking at him.

Ahem… Lin Xingling adjusted the small night light on the bedside.

“Goodnight, good boy.”

“Mmm.”

Author’s Note:

[Mini Theater] – Scumbag or Not

Cat Che: Lian Rong is a complete scumbag!

Hamster Xingling: Not a scumbag.

Cat Che: Scumbag!

Hamster Xingling: …Well.

Brother Ying: Not a scumbag!

Cat Che: Scumbag!

Brother Ying: (* `ˋ*)

Lian Rong: Not a scumbag.

Cat Che (with less confidence): Scumbag…

Lian Rong (raising the hamster ball in his hand): Huh?

Cat Che: Not a scumbag, not a scumbag, put it down quickly!!!

---

Chapter 45 – Super God

Fourth game, an absolute overwhelming game.

TG thoroughly understood the Old Master[mfn][/mfn] system, using Old Master ‘s ultimate skill to bind Da Qiao[mfn][/mfn] and then have Da Qiao activate her ultimate skill to control the enemy team, focusing on quickly eliminating one target before engaging in a 5v4 team fight.

When at a disadvantage, they can follow Da Qiao to the side lanes to take down towers, flank the enemy’s backline, and cut off their minion waves without taking much damage.

Gongsun Li[mfn][/mfn] described herself as fragile as paper… The third blackout, Cheng Che expressed his frustration with his decision to use Gongsun Li as bait.

“You…!”

Overconfidence is the peak, and I was too confident, making a complete mess of things.

“Huh?!”

Liu Ying was killed by Lian Rong under the tower again.

Shangguan Wan’er used Flash to mysteriously appear and sent a half-health Ying Zheng back to the fountain, then elegantly left the DCT blue area.

[“The Joyful Game of God Lian”]

[“Shangguan Wan’er is God Lian’s signature hero, feeling sorry for Brother Ying for three seconds [tear] ]

[Worthy of being my husband, so elegant even when diving towers]

…

Lian Rong and You Peng were killing recklessly, and with the help of Qi Xi bringing people along, Lava controlled Qi Qi’s damage output… Their cooperation perfectly embodied Coach T’s understanding and arrangement of this lineup.

There’s no reason not to win.

“Victory!“

The male commentator enthusiastically announced, “Congratulations to TG for winning this game! They’ve tied it 2-2!”

Commentator A Hua said, “The MVP of this game goes to the mid-laner Lian Rong, congratulations to God Lian .”

The two commentators said a few more words, and the director cut to the analysis desk.

“Lian Rong played aggressively in this game. Maybe he wanted to set an example for the young players… I don’t know if Player 460 has learned anything, but I certainly have.”

Commentator ANT, the mid-laner of the ANT team, is a fan of Lian Rong and speaks with admiration when talking about him.

[“Hilarious, ANT, you’re an unreliable fan, hahaha”]

[“ANT: The little brother of Black Lotus Flower reporting”]

[“Shouldn’t we follow God Lian on Weibo?”]

The other commentator is Charity, the marksman of the SYG team.

Chen Enci, Lian Rong, and Lin Xingling were former teammates, and he spoke without thinking, “Lin Xingling’s play… no, ahem, Lian Rong, haha! Mainly Stars’ support is extraordinary. I was too focused on watching him that my mouth slipped.”

[“What’s the matter, missing a tooth makes you unable to speak? [Silly]”]

[“Enci, how are your teeth?”]

[“The last marksman, Charity; the last tooth, half remaining [Doghead emoji]”]

“Lian Rong is slow to warm up. He needs to play a couple of games to get into the groove. Now that his hands are warmed up, he plays… similar to his usual performance, which is pretty good.”

They still need their coach to smooth things over.

The atmosphere at the analysis desk was harmonious.

TG’s resting room —

When everyone returned and saw that the boss was still there, they didn’t know what to do and awkwardly stood on the side without moving.

Only lava, with an indifferent expression, sat beside Wang Yinan as if no one else was there and asked, “Why haven’t you left yet, brother?”

The club’s boss was his cousin, and he also came from a wealthy family. Naturally, he sat firmly on the throne of the TG prince without fear.

Wang Yinan yawned and said, “I came here, so I’ll wait for you to finish the game.”

“…Is there anything interesting to watch?”

Rebellious teenager lava took a disposable cup and went to get water.

“Um… you’re Lian Rong, right?”

Seeing the photo of the MVP of the game, Wang Yinan smiled affably and praised him, “You played well.”

Lian Rong humbly replied, “It was average.”

Just as they were talking, Gu Xincha, wearing a light blue shirt, walked out from behind the curtain. “…If there’s nothing to say to them, let them come over and listen to my analysis.”

“Go ahead.” Wang Yinan gave him face.

…

Lian Rong followed everyone over, but before doing anything else, he examined his coach from head to toe. After looking, his expression grew even darker.

His mouth, neck… and his clothes had been changed…

“…Xiao Rong?”

Gu Xincha finished discussing the fourth game and looked up, only then noticing something was wrong with Lian Rong. He gently called out to him.

Lian Rong didn’t say anything, he just raised his hand and lightly supported Gu Xincha’s weak shoulder.

He knew the coach was worried that the scum would come after him, and he had called him over to a safe place for the analysis… Lian Rong remembered his coach’s kindness.

Pity that he couldn’t protect himself, yet he still cared so much for others…

Lava pursed his lips and said, “Come on, tell us about the strategy for the next game and prepare us mentally.”

“Oh… for the next game, this is what I think…”

The fifth game, the deciding game.

Both sides’ drafting was normal.

Blue side DCT: Top lane Lu Bu[mfn][/mfn], jungle Yao[mfn][/mfn], mid lane Shiranui Mai[mfn][/mfn], bottom lane Yu Ji[mfn][/mfn], support Cai Wenji[mfn][/mfn].

Red side TG: Top lane Lian Po[mfn][/mfn], jungle Zhao Yun[mfn][/mfn], mid lane Yang Yu Huan[mfn][/mfn], bottom lane Di Renjie[mfn][/mfn], support Tai Yi Zhen Ren[mfn][/mfn].

Kill to the heart… that was Liang Feng’s first thought after seeing the shirt Gu Xincha changed into.

The second thought was more malicious, something like “Damn you, Wang Yinan,” and so on.

Gu Xincha’s expression became silent. Just as he was about to leave the stage after selecting the lineup for the team, he was suddenly called by Lian Rong’s voice.

Like countless times before, Lian Rong said, “Xincha.”

“Hmm?” Gu Xinchai bent down and leaned in to listen to him.

“Wait for good news from me.”

Lian Rong whispered in his ear.

He’s really like a child… Gu Xincha stood up and gently ruffled his hair, smiling, “Just do your best in the game. No matter what, I will be proud of you.”

The coach left the stage, and the camera shifted to the young e-sports players on both sides.

Both sides were slow to warm up in this game, trading objectives, pushing towers, and team fighting… They advanced and retreated, attacking and retreating.

Not normal at all.

After clearing a wave of minions, Cheng Che retreated with Lin Xingling. After taking down the red buff, he went to the mid lane to meet Liu Ying.

“Be careful, there’s someone in the bushes.”

Lian Rong’s playstyle in this game was different. It was gentle instead of aggressive… It might be related to using Yang Yu Huan, a hero that requires a sneaky and late-game playstyle.

The more Liu Ying fought, the more powerless he felt, like punching into cotton, unable to find a point of impact.

“Xiao You’s vision is leaking, hide for a while and go find Xiao Pei.” Lin Xingling adjusted the map’s vision and frowned, “The three of us can try to push the mid lane.”

Cheng Che used his first skill to check the bushes but didn’t find anyone.

The more he fought, the more Cheng Che felt that this mid lane was full of hidden dangers. He didn’t know how many people Lian Rong had called here.

Not finding them didn’t mean they weren’t there… Cheng Che understood this logic.

“Be more cautious, there’s an ambush.”

“Let’s clear the minions first.”

Liu Ying bit his lip, feeling a bit low in spirit.

The mid laner, the little classmate, became confused.

“Tsk…”

Unexpectedly, they still had to resort to this… It might be unethical, but it was worth it.

Cheng Che brought out his trump card, “Liu Ying… I have something to tell you.”

Liu Ying’s ears perked up.

“Lian Rong…” Cheng Che had just mentioned the name when he stopped, unable to say it out loud. He sighed and let Lin Xingling speak.

Lin Xingling stuttered, “Um… well, Lian Rong, he… he has… has…”

“What does he have?” Liu Ying furrowed his brows.

Without hesitation, Lin Xingling took a deep breath and choked on it, “Cough, cough, cough… he has, has a girlfriend… cough, cough.”

“Really? Are you joking?” Liu Ying didn’t believe it.

Didn’t they break up during the off-season and say they would train hard to win the championship in the autumn season?

The referee standing behind them: Professional players really have their way of gossiping during the match!

Cheng Che said with certainty, “It’s true, really.”

“Not true.” Liu Ying didn’t believe it.

Cheng Che controlled Yu Ji to clear minions while talking to him, “When… when have I… ever lied to you?”

The referee behind them: You really stutter when you talk about things outside the match!

Liu Ying fell silent for a long time before saying, “I understand.”

…

“Nice killing!” (Critical Control x3)

“Legendary!” (Unmatched in the world)

Liu Ying understood, so Liu Ying went on a killing spree.

Liu Ying’s bounty was now worth 550 gold.

The opponents tried to catch Liu Ying, but Cheng Che and his team counter ambushed, and after a team fight, only Lian Rong was left on the enemy side.

“Quadra Kill!“

In the team fight, Shiranui Mai took down four kills with her skills.

Low on health, Yang Yu Huan tried to escape.

UU: No

Clear: You

Stars: No

Phantom: …Desire.

The male commentator was excited, “460 Quadra Kill!!! Eleven kills without dying! Can he get the Penta Kill?! Is it within his reach?!”

Commentator A Hua clenched her fist quietly, “Phantom Lu Bu missed his jump! But Yang Yu Huan is too low on health, he might not be able to withstand the damage from his ultimate… Can 460 secure this kill?”

[“I don’t think so.”]

[“DCT’s corporate culture is all about snatching Penta Kills. 😂”]

[“Damn it, Liu Yang’s Penta Kill cosplaying as Shiranui Mai, wow! 😍”]

[“Help! Give him the Penta Kill quickly!”]

In the end, Lu Bu landed and secured the kill, but Yang Yu Huan didn’t die.

Shiranui Mai used Flash and followed up with a combo to finish off Yang Yu Huan.

“Penta Kill!” (Five consecutive kills)

“Ace!” (Team wipe)

TG was wiped out, and DCT pushed through the mid lane minions.

“Penta Kill! Penta Kill!” Wu You whistled in excitement.

“You, Brother Che, Yu Jing, just stood aside and didn’t dare to attack once.” Lin Xingling laughed.

“I’m a cute little cub.”

Cheng Che sarcastically retorted, “Yes, I even blocked Cai Wenji… and didn’t let him attack.”

“Chuck~”

Liu Ying asked with a smile, “What happened? I thought Xiao Pei’s Big Lotus Jump would finish it.”

Phantom tapped his hero icon on the match results screen: [Lu Bu – Alive].

Wu You directly answered for him, “Xiao Pei sold all his damage items, so his ultimate didn’t do much damage… it was to leave the pentakill for you.”

“Oh… thanks, Xiao Pei!” Liu Ying’s eyes curved into a smile.

Phantom replied, “You’re welcome.”

Wu You said, “Indeed, my Pei is still cool today.”

The fifth game ended amidst the laughter and joy of the four teammates.

(Xiao You appeared on the screen, responsible for the laughter and joy, not for destroying the crystal.)

According to the rules, the winning side had to stand up and shake hands with the losing side.

Nothing special happened, except that Liu Ying held Lian Rong’s hand for a long time, being very indecisive, and only moved forward when Cheng Che urged him from behind.

Regarding this, Cheng Che expressed, “My younger brother is so embarrassing.”

DCT’s interview this time was conducted by 460 and Clear, the dual Cs of mid and ADC; the host was Duo Tang, the top host of KPL.

Duo Tang had a soft and adorable appearance, and her speech was very comforting.

The first question was about the pentakill: “Liu Ying, how do you feel about getting a pentakill in the last game?”

Liu Ying replied, “I’m very happy… but it’s mainly thanks to everyone. I want to thank You You, Xiao Pei, Brother Che, the captain, and, uh, also the coach.”

[“Little sweetheart~”]

[“Thanks to the commentators, thanks to the host, thanks to the audience”]

[“Liu Ying: Thanks to my seventh aunt’s second uncle’s nephew’s sister-in-law’s big yellow dog”]

[“Liu Ying is so cute, haha”]

The second question was about the quadrakill: “Well… it’s actually quite dramatic. Clear almost got a pentakill in the first game. Would you feel regretful?”

Cheng Che replied, “No… I just laughed it off.”

[“Now: Laughed it off, at night: Sobbing”]

[“This comment is so bittersweet, hahaha”]

[“21: Laughed it off… 22: What’s just a pentakill 3:30 AM: Actually, it’s not bad if the captain didn’t attack”.]

…

The last question was intriguing. Duo Tang asked Liu Ying, “…During the last game, when Clear and Stars talked to you halfway, what did they say that suddenly reignited your fighting spirit?”

Liu Ying shook his head and said, “Well… I don’t know how to say it.”

Cheng Che interjected, “I told him to stay away from… scumbags.”

[“Scumbags? What’s that supposed to mean?”]

[“Shouldn’t it be ‘Stab Man’? The nickname Clear gave to Zhao Yun? Haha”]

[“Hilarious, ‘Stab Man,’ I’ll remember that”]

Duo Tang officially understood, “Oh! It means staying away from the enemy mid laner Zhao Yun, right?”

No, it means staying away from the enemy mid laner.

Cheng Che nodded with a smile.

…

“Ah… Achoo!”

Lian Rong, who was labeled as a scumbag, sneezed silently.

Gu Xincha took a tissue out of her pocket and handed it to him, hurrying to be by Wang Yining’s side.

They lost, but the boss wouldn’t care at all. Those who came here were never for the match… He knew it all too well.

Tonight was another difficult night.

Author’s note:

[Mini Theater] – Snatching My Pentakill

Cat Cat Che Che: Pentakill, pentakill!!!

Hamster Xingling: No, you didn’t get it.

Cat Cat Che Che: QwQ

Yang Yang: Hey! Pentakill!

Hamster Xingling: …I was too slow and didn’t snatch it.

Cat Cat Che Che: (Raises the knife in his hand)

---

Chapter 44 – Bamboo Horse

“You… You turned your face away, and I…”

Seeing the boss covering the camera with a handkerchief, Gu Xincha gritted his teeth and squeezed out these words.

His breathing was unstable, and a captivating blush appeared on his face.

Wang Yining stared at him without any reservation. “No need, I haven’t seen you in any state before.”

He said it contemptuously, as if he and the person standing on the street selling smiles were of the same kind.

Yes, that’s right…

Gu Xincha, as if self-loathing, took off the thin, almost translucent white shirt he was wearing outside, neatly folded the clothes and placed them on the sofa. Unconsciously, he thought of Liang Feng again.

Liang Feng had just helped him straighten his clothes, but it was futile… Cleanliness and tidiness were temporary. If the problem couldn’t be solved from the root, what awaited him would always be another stain.

He himself was a despicable person who sold smiles, and Wang Yining was the beast that splurged money. That’s what Gu Xincha thought.

Poor Liang Feng, the faithful one.

…

The two of them had been together since childhood, from elementary school to middle school, high school, and university… Gu Xincha had liked him since he was little, but Liang Feng, the fool who was stubborn and straightforward, never caught on.

Liang Feng was a typical straight guy, handsome in appearance but clueless about flirting or interacting with girls.

Due to Gu Xincha’s outstanding appearance and high emotional intelligence, he had many girls liking him since childhood. However, Liang Feng always used the excuse of “he’s not interested in early relationships” to reject them on his behalf.

“How do you know I’m not interested in early relationships?”

Gu Xincha had asked him this in high school.

At that time, Liang Feng had said, “I won’t let you have an early relationship, so you won’t have one, right?”

Gu Xincha: “…”

I really want to snatch Lin Xingling’s lines…

(“Interrupting” Lin Xingling: Ah, right, right, right.)

In college, Liang Feng found a girl he liked, and coincidentally, the girl was interested in him too.

Mutual affection, one of the most beautiful things in the world.

“No early relationships,” Gu Xincha said.

“Not early anymore,” Liang Feng replied.

On the day when Liang Feng successfully confessed to his girlfriend, before he could share the good news with Gu Xincha in the evening, they inexplicably started arguing… and then it turned into a brawl in their dormitory, with neither of them giving in to the other.

Gu Xincha was physically weak and had a timid personality. He was easily subdued by Liang Feng and pinned to the ground, where he was beaten up.

It was painful, but stubborn as he was, he didn’t beg for mercy.

Liang Feng lost control of his anger, and his attacks were neither light nor heavy. By the time he realized it, Gu Xincha’s face had turned pale as if he were dead, and he was on the verge of passing out, almost spitting out blood.

The fight landed both of them in the hospital… Gu Xincha suffered bone and muscle injuries for a hundred days. In order to take care of him, Liang Feng gave up his newly acquired girlfriend.

The ex-girlfriend posted about the incident on her social media, and the news of Liang Feng’s misconduct spread throughout the school. No girls wanted anything to do with him.

For a while, Liang Feng’s unfortunate incident made Gu Xincha the most popular person on the campus confession wall, with countless confessions directed at him every day.

Liang Feng: “Your name is Xincha, they got the characters wrong.”

Gu Xincha: “Yeah, call me Xincha.”

Liang Feng: “No, it’s Xunxun, it sounds nice.”

…Until they were twenty-five or twenty-six years old, the romantic history of the two good brothers was a blank page.

After working for a few years after graduation, the two of them, who shared a passion for e-sports, found an opportunity in the business of King’s Glory and invested as coaches. Gu Xincha joined the TG team, while Liang Feng went to the SYG team.

At that time, KPL was just starting out. With their unique understanding of the game and keen intuition, they led their respective teams to claim the championship and, together with the rising star DW, formed the top three in KPL.

Their careers flourished, and their lives gradually stabilized.

A year after joining the industry, in the summer championship finals of 2017… SYG won 4:0 against TG, avenging their loss in the spring season when TG let them catch up from behind.

On that night, Liang Feng had drunk too much. Unable to sleep at 3:30 in the morning, he wanted to call Gu Xincha.

Someone answered the call.

On the other end of the phone was a suppressed sobbing sound.

He wouldn’t say anything no matter what she asked; he just kept instructing himself hoarsely: “You must have prospects, I beg you, save me.”

“Gu Xun?”

“Xun Xun, come here, let me take a look.”

The current Wang Yining seemed somewhat gentle compared to that night.

Gu Xincha obediently walked over to him and sat on his lap without waiting for him to urge him.

Liang Feng chose to resign and join the national championship-winning team in the King’s Glory professional league, with a smooth transition from the second-tier league to the professional league (KPL). He would definitely have a promising future.

However, Gu Xincha might not be able to see that day…

Thinking like this, Gu Xincha’s nose tingled, and tears welled up in his eyes.

With teardrops shining, he was pitiable in one’s sight.

Like a night-blooming cereus, one can’t help but be moved by the sight.

Wang Yining liked him in this state, very beautiful, like an ancient noble lady.

“Mhmm, your waist isn’t hurt, and there’s nothing on your back… That’s good, let me kiss it.”

His skin was delicate and tender, and kissing him was sweet and enjoyable.

He was a natural beauty.

…

[“Damn it, what’s wrong with this Liu Chan!”]

For the third time, Wang Zhaojun’s[mfn][/mfn] deceleration allowed Liu Chan to dodge, and Cheng Che’s eyebrows twisted into knots. He was so angry that he was about to throw his phone.

In the late game, the team relied on the marksman’s output. How could they win without the damage?!

“Come back, come back, clear the soldiers!”

【Wang Zhaojun kills Zhen Ji[mfn][/mfn]】

Before Lin Xingling could finish speaking, the only mid-laner in the team with rapid wave clear was killed by the enemy mid-laner.

Liu Ying: “That’s mine.”

Wu You sighed, “We lost this match.”

Indeed, from the beginning, DCT was under pressure in the third game, and their economy fell behind by 4,000 in the mid-game. They struggled to stall for time and prepare for a comeback with their full build, but the marksman was repeatedly targeted and killed three times in a row.

In the previous two instances, they could still defend, but this time, they didn’t have a high ground tower in the mid lane, and they didn’t have a mage or marksman on their side. They were truly in a tough spot.

“Defeat!“

“It’s over,” Cheng Che said dejectedly.

This match was truly frustrating… In his previous life, when he followed Coach T, they always had the advantage in draft picks (BP), but he never expected that their draft in this life would be dominated by the opposing team’s Coach T.

Lin Xingling gently patted his back to comfort him, “Let’s go, let’s go back first.”

The two of them left first, with Liu Yan obediently following behind, and Phantom following Wu You.

They all had low spirits.

[“One short leg and four long legs”]

[“Brother, stop rolling your eyes. Wu You and Liu Ying aren’t tall either”]

[“A tiger crouching behind a pagoda, Wu You isn’t taller than a dog”]

[“Wu You: Can I report someone for having the physique of a rooster?”]

[“Wu You is 1.74 meters, Liu Ying is 1.72 meters, Cheng Che seems to be… 1.7 meters, case closed, Cheng is the shortest”]

[“The Three Traitors of the Long Legs Club”]

…Because they still had a match point, DCT’s fans remained calm.

They even leisurely flooded the live chat with comments about their team’s three shorties.

In the rest area of DCT’s team backstage, the coach stood solemnly by the window, lost in thought, while the five team members wore puzzled expressions.

Last year, when TG won the championship despite being the weakest among the three top teams, it was all thanks to Tea’s draft strategy.

Liang Feng knew he wasn’t as skilled as others, but he was unwilling to be outdone.

Coach T knew this, so he grasped the opponent coach’s mindset, conceding advantages in the first round of draft picks to regain the advantage in the second round by selecting heroes that countered their opponents’ lineup.

…

Lin Xingling helped organize everyone’s analysis of the previous game, and when discussing the next game’s draft strategy, there was a noticeable reaction from Liang Feng.

“Alright, the mistake in the draft belongs to the last game. Don’t think too much about it. Just come over and…” Lin Xingling was interrupted halfway through his sentence when Cheng Che tugged at his waistband.

“What’s wrong? Hmm?”

Cheng Che shook his head and said, “Coach T, his draft… is really confusing. It’s not the coach’s fault.”

Wu You and Liu Ying didn’t say anything.

It was Phantom, who usually didn’t speak much, who expressed his opinion, “Let the draft be more flexible, focusing on our own lineup.”

“Brother Feng?… Old Liang? What do you think?” Lin Xingling tapped the table.

Ever since Stars started playing professionally, Liang Feng had always been his coach.

There were fans who previously said that Lin Xingling and Liang Feng were like a father-son duo, and their relationship was very close. It was normal for Lin Xingling to call him “Old Liang.”

Liang Feng nodded and replied, “We should prioritize our own side, but… we can’t use the same strategy for the second time.”

Lin Xingling thought for a moment and added, “Be careful, our mentality is easily manipulated.”

“Mhmm.”

…

During the draft phase, Liang Feng’s and their concerns were not unfounded.

TG’s strongest aspects were the rhythm set by their mid-laner Lian Rong and Coach T’s draft strategy.

In the fourth game, DCT was on the blue side, while TG was on the red side. Blue side had the first ban and pick.

It was still 2018, and there was no global ban-pick yet. It was a one-game ban-pick format, and if a hero was used in one game but not banned, it could still be picked in the following game.

In this situation, having a good draft had an extremely important impact on the game.

DCT banned Pei Qinhu, the strong jungler of the season.

TG banned Xi Shi, causing a psychological impact.

DCT banned Dun Shan, and TG banned Yao (瑶).

Lin Xingling’s Yao was also formidable, especially because his marksman was terrifying.

When it came to hero selection, DCT followed Cheng Che’s request and directly picked Sun Shangxiang[mfn][/mfn], while TG unsurprisingly picked Da Qiao[mfn][/mfn] and Old Master [mfn][/mfn].

Lin Xingling was somewhat worried.

“It’s fine,” Cheng Che reassured him. “Let’s show them our first-hand strategy, and then turn the tables later. Trust me.”

Following the usual procedure, Coach Liang Feng picked Guan Yu[mfn][/mfn] for Phantom and Ying Zheng[mfn][/mfn] for Liu Ying.

“If you have spare gold later, remember to buy the Radiance,” Liang Feng instructed.

Liu Ying replied, “Understood.”

On the other side, the opponent’s Lian Rong picked Shangguan Wan’er with a smile.

Wuhu! Take off~

The draft for this match was quite enjoyable.

Both sides were countering each other, and in the end, neither gained much advantage.

But for DCT, it was already good enough.

“This lineup is fine. We’ll stall for development for a bit,” Liang Feng briefed them on the general strategy, and they went to the center of the stage to follow the procedure.

…

After the coaches shook hands and left the stage, the spotlight shifted to the players.

“…”

Gu Xincha tightly held onto Liang Feng’s warmth on his fingertips and slowly descended the stairs.

---

Chapter 43 – Anticipation

The magnificent scene of Stars scoring a pentakill was repeatedly replayed by the officials in the form of highlights after the first game of the match ended.

Voice chat replay:

uu: “Pentakill! Pentakill!”

460: “Chase, chase, chase! Shen Mengxi has no flash!”

Stars: “Attack the tower! Quickly attack the tower! Tower!”

[Lu Ban No. 7[mfn][/mfn], quadruple extraordinary, Zhang Fei[mfn][/mfn]]

[Taiyi Zhenren[mfn][/mfn] kills Shen Mengxi[mfn][/mfn]]

uu: “No more pentakill~”

Phantom: “Shut up.”

The barrage is full of laughter.

When the second game started, there was a small-scale team fight in the development road after level four. Cheng Che’s Marco Polo[mfn][/mfn] severely damaged the opponent’s Old Master[mfn][/mfn]. Old Master used his ultimate to escape with low health.

“First blood!“

Lin Xingling’s Yao[mfn][/mfn] transformed into a deer in the center of the team fight, immediately used his first skill to transform back to human form, and then used another first skill to chase and successfully kill Old Master.

[“Daddy Star: I didn’t say you can leave”]

[“First blood killer Clear, killing the first blood killer Stars”]

[“Damn, I almost forgot how to kill”]

Liu Ying: “Nice!”

Wu You, who was laning with Phantom: “No more first blood~”

“No more first blood, but I’m still here~” Lin Xingling said proudly.

Afterwards, he accompanied Cheng Che in clearing a wave of minions successfully reaching level four. As soon as he had his ultimate, he couldn’t wait to ride on Cheng Che’s head.

Xishi[mfn][/mfn]: 【Requesting a gathering】

In the mid lane, Liu Ying was heavily pressured by Lian Rong Lava and his teammates. He casually signaled:

“Xiao You, come over. Let’s prepare for a counterattack.”

Wu You, who was taking blue buff: “Wait, two seconds.”

“You also go to the mid lane and help (just come up).” (Che)

“You’re impatient.” (Xing)

“Then let me take you there.” Cheng Che pursed his lips and said to Lin Xingling… When he heard Liu Ying’s words, he didn’t even finish killing the Red Falcon. He used his second skill to move and rushed there with Yao.

“Go straight to the mid lane, and I’ll flank with the team captain.”

After the small-scale team fight in the development road, the two teams clashed again in the mid lane.

…You use your skills, and I’ll use mine. The situation is very chaotic.

The male commentator was babbling, suddenly paused for a second, and then exclaimed, “Xishi is going in! Using her second skill and ultimate to teleport and pull Zhou Yu[mfn][/mfn],God Lian, towards her! Then another second skill!”

“Bang! Coordinating with the Echoing Staff, Zhou Yu was instantly exploded, and Marco Polo on the side got an assist!”

“God Lian is dumbfounded, thinking to himself how dare Xishi do this!… Truly our little mage, 460, with infinite possibilities!”

[“High praise for pulling into her embrace”]

[“460: If you admire him, you must kill him a hundred times!】

[“Ying Ying has been a fan of God Lian for ten years”]

[“Hilarious, God Lian lifts the covers at midnight and finds a nest of Brother Ying [emoticon]”]

Brother, you talk too much, sob…

Life is tough, but A Hua still strives to maintain a smile: “Yes, 460, this is confidence at its peak… On the TG side, losing Zhou Yu can only retreat, clear minions, and defend the tower…”

“Lava goes back to the red area, and uu takes action! Pei Qinhu[mfn][/mfn] is invincible in the early game. It’s like a piece of cake to deal with an under-equipped Nakelulu[mfn][/mfn]!”

The male commentator took over and continued explaining the game.

A Hua: If commentators were paid based on their words, I wouldn’t even have a dollar.

…

Wu You originally wanted to solo kill Lava, but unfortunately, the opposing support, Dun Shan[mfn][/mfn], and the marksman, Gong Sun Li[mfn][/mgn], came to support. There was no choice but to retreat to their own jungle under Phantom’s cover and farm the monsters.

Pei Qinhu finished a round of jungle monsters and headed to the Abyssal Dragon.

Wu You: “Be careful, Xiao Pei.”

Phantom: “Take care of yourself.”

Liu Ying chuckled.

“Old Che, wait for me to go down and catch… No, God Lian is in the brush. I’ll catch him first.”

At this moment, Lian Rong, who was contemplating life in the brush, had no idea that he had already been discovered.

“Brother Ying, bring him over.”

Wu You controlled Pei Qinhu to silently approach from the river, hiding in the small grass pile behind the wall on the other side.

“Okay~” Liu Ying smiled, revealing his cute bunny teeth. He looked adorable… but showed no mercy when it came to beating up her own idol.

Xishi successfully used her first skill to pull Zhou Yu, bringing him to the middle of the river, where Pei Qinhu emerged and tore him apart like a hungry tiger pouncing on its prey.

Just as they finished the Blue Buff and were preparing to ambush Zhou Yu along with Nakelulu, they were taken aback.

Lian Rong:…

Enough, it’s not fun anymore. This wallhack is even penetrating my mind.

Lava: “He checked the brush, why didn’t you leave?”

Lian Rong: “That wasn’t a brush check with his first skill. He flashed and used his first skill to come over. I didn’t react in time.”

Lava: ???

“How did he know where you were?”

You Peng coughed and sighed. “I always feel like our mid laner is being targeted.”

Qi Xi: “I feel the same.”

“I always feel… like that mid laner can read minds.” Qi Qi used Flash to escape from Phantom’s pursuit, nervously biting her lower lip.

“It’s not that mysterious. Let’s not talk about it. I don’t believe in such things.”

Lian Rong was very confident that it was all just a coincidence and that they should focus on the game ahead.

And then he believed in such things.

“I give up. This 460 is toxic!”

He was standing on the riverbank staring at him when he was taking Blue Buff, hiding in the brush waiting for an opportunity when he was providing support, and even flashing in to pull him out from under the tower to focus fire on him… He was like a ghost story come to life.

[“God Lian: Guess where Xishi is?”]

[“Save me! Lotus God has been targeted so miserably for the first time, hahaha”]

[“Brother Ying is impressive as a junior player”]

[“DCT: Jungle duo that’s been together for a long time, shooting and supporting with sweetness. Only the mid laner has been working hard (targeting the opposing mid laner)”]

[“Psychological shadow type mid laner”]

“Help**, this Xishi is toxic!”

After being pulled multiple times, Lava cursed.

Qi Qi (annoyed by Xishi): “…”

Qi Xi: “I give up.”

“I swear, I’ve been dumbfounded by this.”

The defeat was inevitable, Lian Rong said so.

You Peng sighed heavily and didn’t say anything.

Lava, whose screen was black, rubbed his forehead. “Although I don’t want to say this, I feel sorry for you for three seconds, and then I’ll feel sorry for our crystal for three minutes.”

…

“Victory!“

They won the second game. Cheng Che and Lin Xingling clapped their hands and nodded, saying, “2-0. It seems like I won’t need to use my trump card.”

“Let’s see.”

“Tsk, it was a trap. I fell into it.”

“…Let’s give it our all in this game. Don’t let them have too much of an economic advantage. Look for opportunities to team fight and push in the mid-game.”

“You’re all the best, and I believe in you!”

Brother Feng: “Go for it!”

Everyone: “Go, go, go!!!”

The third game’s pick and ban phase didn’t go too well, with TG slightly outdrafting DCT… After finalizing their lineups, the coaches from both sides walked to the center of the stage and shook hands before stepping down.

Liang Feng held onto that delicate hand and didn’t let go for a long time.

“Coach Feng?”

Coach T reminded him in a low voice, “We have to go down now.”

“Oh… my apologies, it’s nothing.” (Liang)

“It’s fine.” (T)

Liang Feng looked deeply at Gu Xincha in front of him, wordless.

He looked thinner, with a wrinkled shirt and a mournful look in his eyes… The slight cut on his lips was still oozing blood, and he didn’t know if it hurt or not.

It was clear that the guy with the surname Wang had done something in the dressing room.

Who knows what he’ll do after stepping down…

…

Liang Feng, stop thinking about it. Take it step by step. At least he’s still fine for now, right?

Finally, with a determined heart and gritted teeth, he let go and walked towards the backstage.

Separated for years, thinking step by step.

Gu Xincha, you promised me. You’ll try your best to live on, wait for me to achieve something, wait for me…

His heart twitched uncontrollably, perhaps out of anger or grief… Liang Feng’s mind was filled with thoughts of Gu Xincha, to the point where he almost forgot to breathe.

He felt like he was suffocating, walking on cotton.

“…”

Liang Feng…

On the way, Gu Xincha reluctantly turned his head to look at him once more, not paying attention to his steps, and accidentally tripped on the stairs, rolling down.

The audience in the front row exclaimed.

Liang Feng, who should have returned to the backstage from the other side, ran over like crazy to help him up. “Gu Xin, are you alright?”

Gu Xincha shook his head.

After the staff confirmed that Coach T wasn’t injured, the director shifted the camera to focus on Gu Xincha and Liang Feng.

Gu Xincha on the screen: “I’m fine, sorry for worrying everyone.”

Liang Feng remained silent, his face dark.

Barrage comments:

[“That step is so slippery. My Charity also knocked out a tooth there.”]

[“You fake fan, Charity said it’s half a dog head.”]

[“The Chen Enci effect.”]

[“Enci, may this prosperous era be as you wish.”]

Chen Enci, who lost a tooth a month ago, was brought up again today to be ridiculed.

[“SYG-Charity: I’m begging you, please stop.”]

After a ten-minute delay, the match finally started with Gu Xincha supported by Liang Feng. DCT held two match points, and whether TG could maintain their winning streak would be decided in this third game.

…

Supporting Gu Xincha all the way, Liang Feng escorted him back to TG’s team rest area. Liang Feng knocked on the door, and unsurprisingly, their club’s big boss, Wang Yining, opened it.

None of the three said a word.

Gu Xincha turned his head away and refused to look at him.

“…”

Liang Feng let go of Gu Xincha’s arm and turned around without any attachment.

After Liang Feng left, Wang Yining finally spoke, “Does it hurt?”

Gu Xincha said it didn’t hurt, but his eyes still didn’t meet Wang Yining’s gaze.

Help, his soul is about to fly to Liang Feng…

“Hmm?”

Knowing that the big boss would act recklessly, Gu

Xincha didn’t resist. He let Wang Yining hold his chin and turn his head back, staring straight at him.

“Xunxun, look at me.”

Dangerous possessiveness filled Wang Yining’s eyes, as if he wanted to destroy everything that didn’t obey him.

Gu Xincha lowered his eyes, and then Wang Yining kissed him forcefully.

This kiss had a faint taste of blood, sweet yet deceptive, like a lover who is inconsistent, but also a punishment for spiritual betrayal.

The injury worsened.

As soon as the kiss ended, the poor coach frowned in pain and took a deep breath.

“Hiss…”

“Listen to me, look at me,” Wang Yining repeated.

Some people only listen after experiencing some hardships, and Gu Xincha was a typical example.

Being treated like this scared him, so he obediently looked at Wang Yining.

With flickering eyes and a charming look, he truly possessed a captivating appearance.

In the rest area, there were only the two of them, in short, Gu Xincha was a lamb waiting to be slaughtered… He always had been.

“Take off your shirt. Let me see where you got injured.”

Author’s Note:

Let’s just say: Stop scolding, stop scolding, the child knows they did wrong. (Dog head emoji)

---

Chapter 42 – Four Kills

The saying goes, “When enemies meet, jealousy is unavoidable.”

This saying truly describes the situation between Cheng Che and Zhang Hui.

As they watched the child in the distance raise their middle finger towards TG, Lin Xingling frowned and smiled, “Don’t make a scene, it’s time to enter the arena.”

Some fans of TG’s DCT team have been criticizing them, and now with Cheng Che flipping the middle finger… it might stir up a lot of trouble.

It’s not about fear, it’s about valuing peace.

Cheng Che gestured back with an OK sign.

Wu You saw it and also made the OK gesture. “Winning three to zero, Brother Che is really ambitious.”

“Ah…”

Cheng Che, feeling misunderstood: “Forced to be ambitious.”

“If you weren’t ambitious, would we still call you Brother Che?” Brother Feng reached out to Lin Xingling. “We’re about to go on stage, give me the thermos cup, I’ll put it aside for you.”

After tidying up, Lin Xingling turned to Liu Ying, “We agreed that if we win the match, we’ll visit Xiao Nuo together.”

“I know.” Liu Ying waved her hand.

Victory, faith, dreams, Xiao Nuo… this match must be won no matter what.

Even if they were facing TG, one of the three major teams, and even if the opponent in their lane was their favorite mid-lane mage.

He turned to look at Cheng Che and Wu You, smiling. “Don’t make any mistakes.”

You two are easily prone to illness, double Cs.

Cheng Che & Wu You: Feeling a chill down their backs.

He always gave a gentle impression, but today there was an inexplicable hint of fire and tension.

Specifically in his tone, cold and icy, with a somewhat Phantom-like feeling.

(Phantom: Don’t poke me.)

In the evening, he simply placed the cooked food on the table, unlike usual where he would call everyone to eat… In short, Brother Ying didn’t seem very happy.

But theoretically, he should be happy today as he was going to meet the person he liked in person.

“I want to drink… drink water…”

Cheng Che didn’t pay much attention to him and reached out to Lin Xingling for water.

The thermos cup was taken by the coach… Lin Xingling shrugged, “Wait, I’ll get it for you.”

“I also want to drink water,” Wu You said.

Cheng Che glared at him. “Try… try to speak like me.”

Wu You: “Woof woof.”

Cheng Che: “Hmm?”

“I’m speaking like you,” Wu You shrugged, pretending to be innocent.

Damn it… Cheng Che, who was called a dog by him, rolled his eyes in disgust. He took the water cup handed by Lin Xingling, unscrewed the lid, and drank the water.

After finishing, he handed the cup back to him. “Not… not for Wu You.”

“I don’t want to drink from Stars’ cup like you do even though I’ve grown up!” Wu You made a face at Cheng Che. “Brother Che is blushing, is the water in Stars’ cup sweeter?”

“Xiao You, don’t talk nonsense.”

Lin Xingling interrupted the childish banter between the ghost and the short bun, applying damage control in a timely manner.

… Let’s not start fighting before the match even begins.

Cheng Che bit his lip, feeling a bit wronged.

Things in his heart couldn’t be said to others. He only drank from Stars’ cup once by chance, and he smiled foolishly holding the cup all afternoon.

With his delicate willow-leaf eyebrows and round apricot eyes, Lin Xingling’s genuine smile was very sweet.

He wanted to make him happy, even though he didn’t know why drinking from his cup would make him happy.

“…Hmm?!”

Before Wu You could say anything, Liu Ying covered his mouth.

Liu Ying: “Shush, be quiet for a moment.”

Cheng Che also made a face at Wu You. “Hush, hush, hush.”

Wu You: …

Liu Ying: “Be quiet, Brother Che, you too.”

Cheng Che: …

Brother Feng looked at Lin Xingling and made a gesture of zipping his mouth, signaling everyone to stay quiet.

… They were about to go on stage, and Liu Ying might be a little nervous.

“Team Captain, shhh…”

Liu Ying put her index finger to his lips and lightly pressed.

…

“Um, I need to go to the bathroom…”

Liu Ying: “Go quickly and come back! Don’t delay, why do you always mess up at critical moments!”

Liu Ying today was definitely filled with a strong sense of tension and excitement.

“First blood!“

It was only after Cheng Che and the others finished selecting their champions and started the first game that they realized it wasn’t tension, but the suppressed excitement of an e-sports youth with nowhere to vent.

Liu Ying showed his best form… and it could even be said to be at its peak.

Shangguan Wan’er[mfn][/mfn] solo killed Shen Mengxi[mfn][/mfn] under the tower at level four.

At first glance, it might seem like basic skills, but the value lies in the fact that Shen Mengxi is not just anyone, but the most skilled and meticulous all-around mid-laner, Lianrong, in the league…

Being solo killed at level four was a mistake that had never happened in Lian Rong’s professional career.

Although Liu Ying himself also took a few tower shots and died under the tower… after all, he got the first blood, which had a higher value.

It startled both sides.

“Liu Ying has a kill!” Wu You coordinated with Phantom to gank Qi Qi and Qi Xi on the opposite side, but returned empty-handed. Even before they reached the mid-lane, they heard the good news from Liu Ying.

“Start the dragon.”

Phantom, who had chased him away, called him back again.

Wu You: “Hmm, okay.”

Controlling Baili Xuance[mfn][/mfn], they coordinated with Hua Mulan[mfn][/mfn] to take down the first Abyssal Dragon.

“I don’t want to use Flash, and dying early saves more time for returning to base.” Knowing what Stars was going to ask without looking up, so Liu Ying straightforwardly explained his thoughts, successfully blocking the captain’s words.

Lin Xingling: …

The child has really grown up. He understands things and makes people want to scold him.

Shangguan Wan’er resurrected and headed towards the mid-lane, full of spirit and vigor.

Just like controlling her summoner, she was young and reckless, full of confidence.

…

TG has always been known for its “mid-lane-jungle” playstyle, but today’s match was completely dominated by Liu Ying.

Signaling, roaming to provide support, establishing vision, catching the enemy’s carry… Liu Ying made the enemy team tremble like they heard his ID, 460.

From level four onwards, Shangguan Wan’er enters a strong phase where, as long as the enemy squishies haven’t built defensive items, encountering her means getting burst down in a combo. One death, two deaths, even a double kill.

Mages like Shen Mengxi, who rely on burst damage, generally can’t build defensive items. Once they’re caught by Shangguan Wan’er, it’s game over, like a living ATM.

Lian Rong completed his fifth legendary item, Crescent Moon.

Unable to withstand Liu Ying’s trickery, he used his ultimate to interrupt him and waited for Crescent Moon to expire before going all out in the second phase.

“You have been slain.”

Shen Mengxi, who was repeatedly caught and killed by Shangguan Wan’er in the game, laughed at himself, saying, “My bad, my bad.”

He really didn’t expect this relatively unknown mid-lane player to be so strong.

“Stop talking nonsense and focus on defending the base, damn it.” Lava scolded him in a bad mood.

The rest of the team remained silent and focused on their actions.

While Shangguan Wan’er was causing chaos in the enemy team, Clear also started to scale up. Luban No.7[mfn][/mfn] protected him well, allowing them to clear minions and push towers.

Both the mid-lane and the bot-lane were pushed to the enemy’s base.

Sighing, Shen Mengxi waited to respawn at the fountain and quickly came out to defend the base.

The final defense at the base began.

On the TG side, it was Lian Rong who was leading the team, with a clear and methodical plan to counter-attack against the headwinds.

“Be careful of the enemy’s Shangguan Wan’er. When our captain Lu Bu[mfn][/mfn] jumps in, I’ll use my ultimate.”

“Okay, if he gets stunned by Lu Bu, can I keep him?”

“Luban is at half health, and Taiyi[mfn][/mfn] hasn’t used his ultimate.”

“I’ll go for Luban, you guys be careful of Phantom.”

Although Lava had a bad temper, he still cooperated.

“Baili Xuance hasn’t shown himself. ADC, come back!”

“…”

DCT couldn’t break TG’s high ground after a long siege. In the end, they exchanged two kills (mage support) for one kill (top-laner) and decided to take the Dragon instead.

Wu You secured the Herald, and with Phantom, they set up vision in the river. They waited for Liu Ying and Lin Xingling to respawn and joined the Dragon minions to press the high ground…

This time, they broke through.

With a 5,000 gold lead, if TG’s high ground was breached, they would be like fish waiting to be slaughtered.

The DCT team was like a butcher’s knife.

First, Cheng Che exploded with damage and secured a triple kill, then Liu Ying chased after Lian Rong with his ultimate and went into the fountain to unleash the second phase… He didn’t kill Lian Rong, but ended up dying under Shen Mengxi’s feet.

Lian Rong: Confused…

The official live chat suddenly became lively:

[“Is this bullying at the fountain?”]

[“No, Shen Mengxi clears minions so quickly, they definitely wanted to kill him first before the minions reached the tower and then go for the crystal.”]

[“This isn’t bullying at the fountain, it’s secretly boosting the idol’s KD~🐶”]

[“I think Brother Liu got bloodthirsty.”]

“Attack the tower, attack the tower!”

Lin Xingling anxiously called out to Cheng Che and the others, telling them not to attack Zhang Fei anymore.

Cheng Che: “No, wait for me to kill him.”

Wu You: “The Quadra kill is right in front of us, Cheng Che, go for it!”

“Quadra kill!“

Finally killing Zhang Fei, Cheng Che breathed a sigh of relief and waited for Lian Rong to clear the minions a bit.

The minion wave was already low on health, so there was no reason for him not to step forward a few steps and unleash his ultimate.

…It’s time. Cheng Che directly flashes over and starts basic attacking.

Cheng Che: “Penta kill! Penta kill!”

Lin Xingling: “Then let me get an auto-attack in for an assist.”

Wu You: “Penta kill! Penta kill!”

【Taiyi kills Shen Mengxi】

“An enemy has been slain.”

As the voice announcement of “our team has killed an enemy” sounded from the device, Cheng Che froze in place.

Wu You: “Hahaha, the penta kill is gone.”

[“What the heck, what just happened? Was I seeing things?”]

[” Dad Star betraying his son (certain)”]

[“You guys don’t understand. If you love him, you steal his penta kill and make him remember you forever [emoticon]”]

“I… I’m sorry, I’m sorry…” Lin Xingling hurriedly apologized.

In a professional player’s personal data file, a penta kill is important, and he had truly made a huge mistake this time.

Cheng Che simply clicked on the crystal mechanically, without saying a word.

He silently returned backstage.

Lin Xingling followed behind him, not daring to breathe, and when they reached the lounge, Liu Ying, Wu You, and the others who knew better took Brother Feng aside.

“My good boy, don’t be angry. I’ll make it up to you…”

He begged all the way when he approached, his tone almost pleading.

“Hmm?”

To Lin Xingling’s surprise, Cheng Che, who had been wearing a stoic expression all along, suddenly turned around with a smile and hugged him.

“Good boy?”

“Penta kill, it’s fine… Let’s keep playing, having you is enough.”

These were Cheng Che’s heartfelt words.

Though straightforward, they were enough to move someone.

“Aren’t you angry?” (Star)

“Not angry, just… teasing you.” (Cheng)

Well… A huge burden in Lin Xingling’s heart instantly lifted, and he gently patted the Cheng Che in his arms as if soothing a child.

“Don’t worry, I won’t make mistakes like this again next time.”

Over there, Wu You:…

“You two are just bickering at the beginning and reconciling at the end… Ah, what was that saying? Hmm… Can’t even argue for three sentences.”

Brother Feng patted his shoulder and shook his head. “No, it’s because your brother Che is so magnanimous. If he had stolen mine, I would have twisted his head off.”

“Just a penta kill, isn’t it too much?” (Cheng)

Cheng Che looked at them, resting his head on Lin Xingling’s shoulder.

“Just a penta kill?” Wu You gave him a thumbs up. “Listen, that’s what a human would say.”

Liu Ying shook his head and said, “Legendary.”

Liu Ying was always the one who knew how to speak.

And Wu You said, “Only you, Brother Che, with your short legs and huggable appearance, could say something like that.”

Cheng Che: ???

Short legs? Huggable appearance? Who said that? I’ll kill them?

“Ah… Ah-choo…”

Lin Xingling set him aside and turned around to sneeze.

When he finished wiping his nose and turned back around, Lin Xingling met everyone’s deathly gaze.

Wu You: “Dad Star, you…”

Liu Ying: “Captain, take care of yourself.”

Brother Feng: “Um, I’ll take care of the kids for you. You can rest assured.”

Cheng Che took a deep breath and asked in a low voice, “Cap… Captain?”

The captain was dead.

“I… I was just joking. Um, I meant to say you’re cute, you know?”

Dad Stars adjusted his round glasses and folded his hands.

Everyone: Ah…

“…” What’s the point of saying I’m cute?

Author’s Note:

【Mini Theater】 Chinese New Year

Hamster Xingling: On Chinese New Year, bend your butt and give a bow~

Cat Cat Che Che: …I’m a cool and aloof male god.

Che Che is a cool and aloof male god, so let’s have everyone from the DCT team wish each other a happy New Year!

Brother Feng: Wishing everyone a happy New Year! May all your wishes come true!

Dad Star: New year, new atmosphere, rising higher with each step!

Cheng Che: Happy New Year, be happy every day!

Brother Ying: Year after year, another year passes, a new year surpasses the old one!

Xiao You: Happy New Year, everyone! Hahaha!

Xiao Pei: Happy New Year!

---

Chapter 41 – World War I

While waiting, Cheng Che and Lin Xingling watched as Wu You and the barber shop owner looked at Lin Xingling with puzzled expressions on their faces.

Wu You: “Captain, aren’t you alive and well?”

Lin Xingling: “Huh?”

I am alive and well…

Cheng Che curled his lips and said, “The captain… has passed away.”

Captain: “I heard you’ve been telling everyone that I’m dead?”

Everyone burst into laughter.

Cheng Che distributed sausages to everyone, and even the barber shop owner was pleasantly surprised to receive one.

When cutting hair, they paid extra attention.

Wu You only trimmed his bangs and the back of his head, saying that he didn’t need to cut the rest of his hair and tied a small ponytail at the back, looking cool.

“Cut it, it will look good.”

As a “middle-aged” person approaching thirty, Brother Feng really appreciated Wu You’s hair.

“Should I cut it shorter?” the barber shop owner asked.

“Boss, when you say ‘shorter,’ do you mean… this much?” Wu You made a difficult expression and compared it with his fingers, first indicating two centimeters, then ten centimeters.

The boss laughed, “Hahaha, don’t joke around. Your hair isn’t that long. If it were, you’d be a girl.”

Your coach said your little ponytail won’t last.

“Well, let me do it then?”

Phantom, who had been silent all along, suddenly spoke up. Everyone was taken aback, and then the owner handed him the scissors.

Cheng Che looked at Lin Xingling and whispered, “I also want… to keep it long, you know, like a wolf’s tail.”

Lin Xingling smiled.

“Let’s not keep it long. We look handsome with short hair.”

“The wolf’s tail… that’s cool, really cool.” Cheng Che pleaded, clasping his hands together and bowing to him a few times.

“It’s hot, don’t keep it that long. Besides, your hair is still stiff. When it grows long, it itches at the back of your neck… what Wu You did was to tidy up the back, leaving some hair to tie up, not a wolf’s tail.” (Star)

“Then… I’ll keep that.” (Che)

Even though he said that, Lin Xingling couldn’t convince him. Helpless, Cheng Che had to ask the barber to cut his hair to a normal length.

Lin Xingling had a sudden whim to get a buzz cut, but luckily everyone stopped him from entertaining the thought, and he just slightly trimmed the ends of his hair.

When the two of them were done, Wu You’s hair was also neatly cut. He tied it up with a small hair tie, looking especially cool.

“Now that we’re all done, shall we go back?”

Phantom stood behind him and cautiously touched the ends of his hair twice, not saying anything, but it seemed like he had a lot to say.

Cheng Che looked at the two of them in confusion, then turned around and saw Lin Xingling looking at him, so he quickly gave him a wink.

See, I have double eyelids~

Brother Feng on the side: Petrified–

“…”

Lin Xingling smiled and called him over, “Come here, put on this hairpin.”

He handed him a star-shaped hairpin and clipped it to his hair.

“I have one too.” Liu Ying waved the small flower hairpin in his hand and then fastened it to his team uniform collar.

Cherish the blessing from Senior Ling Meng, it’s important.

These kids always make a mess.

Brother Feng sighed, greeted the owner, and quickly took his group of children away.

Back on the fifth floor, they entered the room.

Brother Feng reiterated, “Remember our rules: take care of yourself, no swearing, and no dating.”

This time, he specifically called out Liu Ying, “Liu Ying, you must remember.”

Liu Ying lowered his eyes, “Understood.”

“Liu Ying doesn’t like that celebrity anyway. He likes… Lian Rong~~”

“In the future, I’ll like Hui Yue.”

Lin Xingling put his hand on his shoulder and gave him a comforting pat.

“Okay.” Liu Ying obediently responded.

Although he disagreed with the captain’s words, he complied… seeing that Brother Feng and the captain were about to start a long discussion, he made an excuse of cooking and retreated into the small kitchen.

…

With Liu Ying gone, the topic of the dangers of dating naturally came to an end.

Brother Feng, who had been frowning since they left the opening ceremony venue, sighed, “Our first opponent in the regular season is TG… how annoying.”

Lian Rong is in TG, and Liu Ying really likes Lian Rong…

It’s not that he doesn’t trust Liu Ying, but he’s worried that he’ll get nervous during the match. This kid tends to make mistakes when he’s nervous… and it’s not good for us to win if he makes mistakes in the mid-lane.

Lian Rong is recognized as a mid-lane textbook, with a strong ability to suppress opponents.

“We have to believe in Liu… Liu Ying, he’s very… capable.”

Cheng Che cheered everyone on.

Liu Ying is a top-tier mid-laner, but he is also an extremely sensitive child… prone to being infatuated.

Lin Xingling is concerned about this.

It’s okay to be infatuated, but the important thing is not to be foolish… if Liu Ying becomes foolish just by seeing God Rong in person, then they’re in trouble.

Wu You scratched his neck and frowned, “We have to trust Brother Ying, he knows what he’s doing.”

Liu Ying in the kitchen: Oh, Lian Rong just posted a new Weibo, let’s create a small account to like, comment, and repost!

–With closed eyes, playing the piano is extraordinary.

Brother Feng nodded, “So, the thing is, enemy in the dark, me in the light… no, that’s not right… tsk, anyway, we have to… have to… have to prepare for a certain battle!”

He forgot the lyrics.

Lin Xingling reminded him, “What is the source of life?”

Cheng Che continued, “Food.”

[Preparing for Battle with Food]

Wu You wanted to say something but was interrupted by Phantom, who nudged his arm.

Phantom: “Shh.”

Brother Feng, who already knew how the idiom was supposed to be said, looked at Cheng Che with interest, resting his chin on his hand, “Please continue.”

Lin Xingling:…

“What does Liu Ying put in the food?”

Cheng Che blurted out, “Rice?”

Mistake… Lin Xingling slapped his forehead and asked him, “And how does he wash the rice?”

“With his hands.”

Caught up in the argument, Cheng Che had already forgotten the original question. He would answer whatever Lin Xingling asked: “Isn’t that right?”

Wu You said, “What you said, Brother Ying turned around and laughed… hilarious.”

Is it never-ending?

Lin Xingling smiled patiently, “No… let’s raise the difficulty. Listen, little brat, I ask you, when you’re thirsty, what do you want to drink?”

Cheng Che, lacking confidence, said, “Milk… milk tea.”

Brother Feng gave him a thumbs up, “Spoiled when you have money.”

Phantom and Wu You sat on the side, holding tea cups and watching the show.

After careful consideration, Lin Xingling spoke again, “You drink milk tea… what are the ingredients in milk tea?”

Cheng Che got a pentakill, “Tea.”

He started to make things up.

“Tea?”

Lin Xingling followed up, “And what is used to brew the tea?”

Cheng Che confidently responded, “Teacups.”

After guiding him for a while, all he could say was teacups… Lin Xingling was about to get so frustrated he would vomit blood.

Cheng Che still looked confused, not understanding why he suddenly had to answer these questions.

Lin Xingling:…

Lin Xingling asked, “Let me ask you again, what’s in the river?”

Cheng Che replied, “Fish.”

Lin Xingling (giving you one last chance), “Where do the fish swim?”

Cheng Che (giving up thinking), “In the river… they swim in the river.”

Wu You said, “Damn, reasonable and logical… applause!”

Sound-controlled applause: “Clap clap clap clap!! Stop—”

Putting on the brakes just before Dad Stars could beat someone up.

“…”

In the face of continuous setbacks from Cheng Che, Lin Xingling lowered his head in disappointment and remained silent.

“Do you need to take some hypertension medication?” Brother Feng asked with a suppressed smile.

“I’ll do it, I’ll do it,” Wu You volunteered, “I’ll help Dad Stars… uh, I mean, enlighten Brother Che.”

Confidently, Xiao You came forward and used his ultimate move: “What is Han Xin’s second skill? (Preparing for Battle with Back Against the Water)”

Cheng Che didn’t disappoint the crowd, “Displacement.”

“I’m asking for the specific name.” (You)

“Backward jump, leap.” (Che)

“I mean, the exact name.” (You)

“Strong, strengthening basic attacks.” (Che)

After three rounds, Wu You was completely defeated.

“Brother Che is truly an aged rusty water faucetThe comparison to an aged rusty water faucet suggests that his responses or ideas are outdated, unoriginal, or ineffective..”

Wu You collapsed back onto the sofa, feeling utterly speechless.

Whether you say he’s dumb or smart, he never hits the mark.

Truly not wasting any intelligence in unnecessary matters.

“…Hmm.” Lin Xingling didn’t even feel like saying a word.

After this group of people had been puzzling over riddles for a long time, Cheng Che grew impatient, “What… what is it, after asking so… so many questions, what do you want to know?”

Brother Feng replied, “Preparing for a certain battle.”

Cheng Che was speechless, “Preparing… preparing for battle with back against the water.”

After all this fuss, they were asking about that… Did I just give water-like answers to all those questions I answered earlier?

Little brat became withdrawn.

When Liu Ying brought the food over on a tray, everyone was feeling frustrated.

Brother Ying asked curiously, “Aren’t you all going to eat?”

The question went back to its original starting point: food.

[Preparing for Battle with Food]

First, Wu You laughed and said, “I’m going to find the source of life,” then Cheng Che stood up, “Whatever, let’s eat.”

He went to the kitchen and brought two bowls of food, giving one to Lin Xingling, “Captain, do you want to… drink water or… eat? Crazy.”

“Don’t mention that word again, if you do, our captain will become withdrawn again.” Brother Feng got up and went to the small kitchen to serve the food.

“What… what word?”

Cheng Che asked, “Water?”

Lin Xingling:…

Thank you, little brat, thank you for showing me the ceiling of human riddles.

When all the food was on the table, Liu Ying mentioned casually, “Eat well, train well. We’re about to face TG, we must win.”

Brother Feng said, “Damn… TG, where the conversation started.”

Lin Xingling shut down completely.

“Alright… eat well, eat… eat well.”

Saying that, Cheng Che poured him a glass of warm water.

…Water.

Lin Xingling: You guys tricked me.

The meal ended amidst laughter and joy. The spoon was passed to Brother Feng to wash the dishes, and he happily went to the small kitchen with the plates and chopsticks.

“Don’t overthink it. Let’s work hard and beat TG when the time comes. That’s all we need.” Wu You patted his chest and proudly announced to everyone, “As the second jungler in KPL, I’m going to the peak tournament.”

The first jungler in KPL:…

Liu Ying and Phantom returned to their rooms one after another. Cheng Che had originally wanted to duo queue with him, but seeing the captain’s disinterested expression, he didn’t say anything.

He just accompanied him back to his room and said, “If you’re tired, then… rest.”

Seeing the worry on his face.

Cheng Che said, “I… I’ll come back after twelve. I won’t stream… I’ll practice my marksman skills.”

Good… Lin Xingling nodded.

They only had three days left until their first match against the team in KPL, and everyone was racing against time.

In the room where Lin Xingling had set up the bed, she thought for a moment. He couldn’t lag behind either…

He opened his phone, logged in, and started the peak tournament.

Author’s Note:

【Mini Theater】

Hamster Xingling: In the previous chapter, they said I died, and in this chapter, they’re messing with my mentality like crazy… Truly worthy of being my good child! [Smile]

Cat Che: Do you believe me if I say I only used thirty percent of my infuriating power?

Hamster: Spare me, I’m begging you.

Cat: [Smile]

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