Cue the Champion: Finals 3
Overview
- Stage Cost: None
- First Clear Rewards: None
Guide
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Script
Pool Club
With both sides closely pursuing each other, you once again fall behind.
This time, your opponent has already obtained the first match point of the match game.
Artem: ...
You: ...
You: (I know I promised Artem to stay focused, but it's still hard to not care at all at a time like this.)
Artem is still reviewing the situation calmly. But this time, it's taking longer than usual.
You calm down, stare at the table, and begin to recall the few extremely difficult paths you took to hit the ball previously. You do your best to think of better ways to turn the tables on your opponents.
You: Should I have pushed the ball forward more in the previous shot...?
You murmur in a low voice, but you don't expect Artem to hear you talking under your breath. He walks over with a smile and gently holds the tip of your cue.
Artem: Yes. If you pushed it a little further, the next shot would have been more difficult for our opponents to make.
He takes your hand and leads you to carefully rub the chalk on the tip of your cue.
Artem: Your ability to plan ahead has improved a lot in the past few days, and your plays are becoming more and more unique.
Artem: Especially in the last round yesterday — I couldn't even predict several of the shots you made. You planned them so well.
Artem: It was the same just now. Rather than simply going along with my playstyle, you're already able to think of a better plan independently.
As he speaks, he puts down the chalk. He then wraps his palm around your hand that isn't holding the cue.
Artem: So, in the next game, I want you to take the lead. I'll do my best to follow along with you.
You: ???
You: But... this is the final match! The most important game! If you leave it to me, what if...?
Artem: I believe in you.
His sure words are like an injection of reassurance. At this moment, the excitement of the tournament and the audience's attention both seem to vanish...
Only Artem is left in front of you. His hand is covering the back of your hand, transferring his warmth and unbeatable strength.
Artem: You should believe in me too. I made this decision because you're already good enough.
Handing the reins to someone who has only just started playing pool at the most critical moment of the tournament... It sounds like an impulsive gamble.
However, Artem is the one making this decision. Instead of feeling anxious before taking the gamble, your heart actually calms down.
When he says he believes in you, you're sure that he isn't saying it just to comfort you. It is the trust and appreciation from the bottom of his heart.
It is a sense of recognition that allows you to let go of your worry.
Artem: And even if we really lose, it doesn't matter. We entered the finals together, which is already a special memory.
Artem: Compared to winning or losing, giving you a more comprehensive experience in this game is what I really care about.
Artem: As long as that's the case, we can have no regrets — no matter what the outcome is.
The hesitation in your heart stills at this moment. You nod and show your first truly relaxed smile of the day.
You: Then let's work together and play an unforgettable game!
Artem: Yeah, I have a hunch it's going to be the most amazing game in this tournament.
Summary
