Even When Cheers Fade: Chapter 1

Even When Cheers Fade: Chapter 1 is an Adventure Mission on The Xianzhou Luofu from the Luminary Wardance event.
==Steps==
# Head to the Skysplitter
# Go check out the Wardance backstage
# Listen to why Luka came to the Luofu
# Find the opponent for the first match
# Help Luka plan for the first match
# Start the match against Lil Gui's Support Association
# The goal is... the Ringmaster's Challenge!
# Learn about the competition's rules
==Gameplay Notes==
* The game provides Luka, Pela, Serval, and Natasha for use as Story characters.
==Dialogue==
===Head to the Skysplitter===
;(Approach the marked location)
:
----
: (Trailblazer): (A rare opportunity. Let's check out the backstage of the Skysplitter. Maybe there's something exciting going on backstage that you won't be able to see from the spectator seats.)
:
===Go check out the Wardance backstage===
;(While approaching the marked location)
: Camera journalist: Why did you want to participate in the Wardance?
: Luka: Because... Because... Because I was qualified to participate?
: (Trailblazer): (Isn't that Luka? Why is he here on the Luofu?)
;(Voice lines)
: Carmella: How confident are you?
: Luka: I'm not too sure...
===Listen to why Luka came to the Luofu===
;(Approach the marked location)
: (Trailblazer): Luka, didn't expect to see you here.
: Luka: (Trailblazer)? Why are you here?
: I often visit the Luofu.
:: Luka: Haha, I see. This is my first time leaving Belobog to compete in outer space.
: I came to watch the competition.
:: Luka: What a coincidence. I'm here to compete! Umm... Though I really doubt I've got any chance at winning, haha.
: Camera journalist: Are you a friend of Mr. Luka's? Allow me to introduce myself: I am an Interastral Peace Entertainment journalist-in-training, Carmella.
: Carmella: I was supposed to follow Mr. Owlbert to cover the Wardance together, but he's got a million things to attend to, so the tasks of interviewing the popular contenders and producing the special program fell on my shoulders.
: Carmella: These are huge responsibilities... I've been interning for so many years. If I screw this up, I doubt I'll ever get the chance at a full-time role.
: Luka: The IPC sure is harsh...
: Carmella: It'll be fine. It's just my boss trying to mentor me! As long as I get some shots that'll shock and awe, I'm sure I'll be able to clinch a full-time job this year!
: Carmella: ...I can sense the potential of a juicy program just through Luka alone!
: Luka: Really? I'm not so sure about that...
: Why did you come to participate in the Wardance?
: Luka: Why did I choose to participate in the Wardance? It's a long story...
: Luka: You two, let's take a walk. I can tell you all about why I'm here on the way.
: Let's go.
:;(Begin From Snowbound Sorrow)
: I have something else to do.
;(Talk to Luka again)
: Luka: You two, let's take a walk. I can tell you all about why I'm here on the way.
: Let's go.
: I have something else to do.
===From Snowbound Sorrow===
===Find the opponent for the first match===
: Carmella: Luka, you are absolutely radiating with newsworthiness. I've decided to follow you and report on your progress throughout the competition.
: Luka: If only everything were as smooth as when it started...
: How many matches have you participated in?
:: Luka: If I had participated in the competition these past few days, I wouldn't be so anxious right now...
: Did you fail in the knockout stage?
:: Luka: If that was the case... I'd have nothing to feel bad about...
: Luka: It's been days since I've registered, but I haven't participated in a single match yet. Today's my first one.
: Luka: But forget about competing, I feel like I'm struggling with just normal everyday life! I'm already halfway into the realm of needing help with daily activities...
: Luka: Why don't people accept shields? You can pay for things just by swiping a gemstone trinket?
: Luka: Why doesn't anyone look their age? I approached this girl with pointy ears to ask for directions and I called her "little girl" and she got mad! She said she's over three hundred and forty years old... So now I'm even afraid to talk to people.
: Luka: Oh and, meals... I'm really not used to the food on the Xianzhou. Yesterday, I ate a bowl of chili oil beef offal stew for dinner, and today... I've been blowing up the toilet with my flaming rockets...
: Carmella: I feel you, Luka. I also can't get used to the food on the Xianzhou.
: Luka: Miss Carmella, you can't get used to the food, either?
: Carmella: Well, not exactly. It's because I'm an Intellitron.
: Luka: ...
: Carmella: ...Sorry, please continue.
: Luka: Anyways, this is the first time in my life I've felt so useless. I can't even do something as trivial as asking for directions...
: It's your first time away from home, so it must be hard to get used to things.
: It's an alien civilization after all...
: Luka: Thank you for comforting me... Actually, I did do some mental preparations. It's my first time going out into the world, but I didn't expect it to be so overwhelming that I can't keep my footing.
: Carmella: Where are your Belobogian buddies?
: Luka: Lynx went on an archaeological escapade: She wants to try to learn about Igor's history before he returned to Jarilo-VI with that gemmed pendant. Svarog took Hook out to play — he's really good with kids.
: Luka: I'm so irate and I'm about to start my first match, I'm in worse shape than ever.
: Who's your next opponent?
: Luka: The next opponents are several Cloud Knights... Ah, they're like the Silvermane here... No, why am I explaining this to you? You should know better than me... I'm the only one who doesn't know anything.
: Carmella: Why not check out who your first opponent is before the competition starts? It's better than wallowing here, as it'll just make you more anxious.
: Luka: Thanks for talking to me and cheering me up. Sure, I'll head off to meet my first opponent!
: Carmella: Luka has regained his energy! Full health revive! Oh yeah!
:
;(While approaching the marked location)
: Luka: Look, those are my opponents for my first match.
: (Trailblazer): Isn't that... Sushang!?
: Carmella: Huh? You know her?
----
;(Approach the marked location)
: Sushang: (Trailblazer)! Are you here to watch our match?
: Cloud Knight A: This is our next opponent, Luka.
: Luka: Hello everyone, I'm Luka and I come from Belobog. I'll be exchanging fists with you guys in the ring. I hope we'll be able to take this chance to become friends.
: Sushang: Belobog... Oh! I think Lil Gui mentioned it before, but I can't seem to remember. What kind of place is it?
: It's a snow-covered city.
:: Sushang: Oh wow... I can't imagine that. I'm sorry, the Xianzhou Yaoqing doesn't have much artificial snow.
: It's a city full of heroes.
:: Sushang: Oh, I love hero stories! Tell me more when you have time!
: Luka: It's okay if you haven't heard of us. I'll make sure the whole cosmos remembers Belobog's name with my fists!
: Sushang: In that case, I'll keep my eyes peeled!
: Cloud Knight B: Sushang used an idiom!
: Carmella: I'm the journalist who's reporting on Luka. It's fine. J—Just chat like you always do and ignore me. I'm just snapping shots for material.
: Sushang: (Trailblazer), are you here to join the tournament with Mr. Luka?
: I'm his coach.
:: Sushang: Could Luka be the fighter that you've been training?
: That's right. Scared?
:: Sushang: W-Who's afraid! Lemme see... Your name isn't on the list. Are you Luka's coach then?
: Cloud Knight A: The iron arm on this red-haired boy looks like it's got power, definitely capable of taking down a kid with one punch at a time.
: Cloud Knight B: But we're not kids! The Cloud Knights' tactical creed is to complement one another and overwhelm with numbers!
: Sushang: That's called a united front, got it?!
: Luka: My strategy... Uh, sorry. It's my first time participating in the Wardance. I'm the only one in my team, so I don't have any strategy to speak of.
: Sushang: It appears our otherworldly friend requires some enlightenment. How about this — the match is starting in an hour. I'll give you some real-life tactical pointers in the ring!
: Cloud Knight A: Sleepy Sushang, that's over the line! You were supposed to be our coach when we invited you here. How could you run off to the opponent's corner?
: Sushang: It's just... our friend from afar requires some assistance, that's all. Don't we Cloud Knights also earnestly help out and provide direction to the travelers we encounter on our daily patrols?
: Cloud Knight B: Bah, it'll be your fault if we lose.
: Sushang: Enough chit-chat! Get back to your prep!
: Luka: I appreciate it. Thank you, new friend whose age I won't try to estimate... We're heading back to the lounge.
: Sushang: See you in the ring!
===Help Luka plan for the first match===
: Luka: So... the coach of my opponent for my first match, is going to give me tactical advice in the ring? I am bewildered by the Xianzhou people's hospitality.
: This one's very, very hospitable.
:: Luka: What a kind-hearted person...
: See? Xianzhou's not that scary, is it?
:: Luka: You're right. There are many good people here.
: Carmella: This is your first match, Luka. You're bound to win!
===Start the match against Lil Gui's Support Association===
;(Talk to Carmella again, optional)
: Carmella: This is your first match, Luka. You're bound to win!
;(Talk to Luka)
: Luka: (Phew, Luka, you're gonna be fine. You're the boxing champion of Belobog.)
: Luka: (The Cloud Knights... Aren't they just the Silvermane Guards? I'm pretty confident of my odds against them, except Mr. Gepard.)
: Luka: (Luka, you're the best! You're not gonna lose! Go get 'em!)
: (Trailblazer): Luka, ready for your first match?
: More or less!
:: Luka: I think, I, more or less, maybe, perhaps I'm ready!
:: Carmella: Luka, have more confidence in yourself!
: Please give me a moment.
:: Luka: Please give me a moment.
===The goal is... the Ringmaster's Challenge!===
: Owlbert (Remote Puppet): And whether or not your world has a day-night cycle — good morning, good afternoon, and good evening! I'm your good buddy Owlbert!
: Owlbert (Remote Puppet): Welcome! Welcome everyone, to the Wardance's knockout stage brought to you live!
: Owlbert (Remote Puppet): Presenting the two corners of this match, we have from the Luofu's Cloud Knights — Lil Gui's Support Association! Uh? What kind of name is this...
: Owlbert (Remote Puppet): And representing the city of Belobog — Luka "Strongarm"!
: Owlbert (Remote Puppet): Between these two groups of contenders, who will emerge victorious? We wait with bated breath!
: Sushang: Come at us, Mr. Luka! My team will show you the prowess of the Cloud Knights' formation!
: You're not joining in?
:: Sushang: Nope, I'm not about to suffer in pain. It's much easier being a coach, hehe.
: What does a coach do during a match?
:: Sushang: Simple: You just gotta stand at the byline and give your team tactical instructions.
: Sushang: Of course, being a spectator is the easiest. Lil Gui's up there in the stands right now, watching us duke it out from her vantage point. She's such a baddie.
: Cloud Knight A: Hear that, everyone? Lil Gui is somewhere in the audience watching us. Brothers, we mustn't disappoint our Lil Gui!
: Cloud Knight B: Hoo! For Lil Gui, we will emerge victorious!
: Luka: If I lose, those people dear to me will be disappointed too. Looks like we have to give it our all.
: Owlbert (Remote Puppet): If the Cloud Knights fail, Lil Gui will be disappointed. If the Cloud Knights win, our friends from Belobog will be disappointed. No matter the ending, disappointment inevitably awaits one party. Welcome to the cruel world of competition!
: Cloud Knights: For Lil Gui! Form up!
;(Enter battle)
----
;(Wave 1)
: Sushang: Lemme remind you! On the Wardance stage, the atmosphere of the spectators is very important!
: Sushang: Show off your flashy moves and make the audience cheer for you!
;(When the Aurumaton Spectral Envoy take turn)
: Sushang: Brothers and sisters, it's time for us to show off our stuff!
: Members of Team Sushang: Xianzhou soars, Cloud Knight roars! Xianzhou soars, Cloud Knight roars! Xianzhou soars, Cloud Knight roars!...
;(After breaking the enemies toughness for the first time)
:Owlbert (Remote Puppet): Luka deflects the Cloud Knights' attack and turns the tide of the battle!
;(When the Aurumaton Spectral Envoy take turn again)
:Owlbert (Remote Puppet): The opponent strikes again! How will Luka react?
;(When the Vibes reach maximum for Luka's team)
:Owlbert (Remote Puppet): Luka has set the arena ablaze with excitement!
:Owlbert (Remote Puppet): Everyone is screaming for Luka!
----
;(Wave 2)
:Sushang: Brothers and sisters, get it together! Lil Gui is watching!
:Luka: This... Why is there a Fragmentum creation? Am I... hallucinating?
;(When the Cloud Knight Illusion take action for the first time)
:Owlbert (Remote Puppet): Luka isn't able to deflect the Cloud Knights' attack! He's pinned down once again!
:Owlbert (Remote Puppet): The opponent is not leaving any openings for Luka!
;(When the Cloud Knight Illusion take action for the second time)
:Sushang: Come, let's deal the winning blow! Don't give him another chance!
;(When the Vibes reach maximum for Sushang's team)
:Owlbert (Remote Puppet): Looks like Lil Gui's Support Association is ready to end this match once and for all!
:Luka: Oh no... How can it be...
:Owlbert (Remote Puppet): Luka has been knocked down! Can he rise again and produce another miracle?
:Sushang: Hey! Coach (Trailblazer), don't just stand there staring!
:(Trailblazer): Then... should I go up there myself and defeat you guys for him?
:Sushang: Ugh! Of course not! Come, let me show you how it's done!
;(When the Vibes reach maximum for Luka's team, random)
:Owlbert (Remote Puppet): Luka! The miracle man!
:Owlbert (Remote Puppet): Luka efficiently neutralizes his opponent's attack!
:Owlbert (Remote Puppet): Luka has turned the tables! Legendary!
:Owlbert (Remote Puppet): Luka pulls off another miracle with his bare hands! What a man!
----
;(After the battle)
: Owlbert (Remote Puppet): And the winner is... Luka "Strongarm"!
: Owlbert (Remote Puppet): Who'd have thought a rookie challenger like Luka would win? But how much further will he make it? Let us stay tuned!
: Luka: (Trailblazer), something feels off... What is happening to me?
: What's wrong? Are you okay?
: Luka: I feel... a little strange. I just saw those Cloud Knights grow fangs and claws, like they were demons.
: Cloud Knight A: Hey, show a little sportsmanship! You've already won, so what's with the insults?
: Luka: Sorry, I didn't mean it that way! I just feel like everything I'm seeing is a hallucination...
: Sushang: Are you too stressed out? When I was younger, every time before the day of exams, it also seemed like my textbooks grew fangs and talons, as if they were demons!
: Cloud Knight B: Your situation is clearly different.
: Carmella: If you're too stressed out... How about a bottle of Sweet Dreams Soda! This is the Xianzhou version of SoulGlad, and it helps you sleep better too! "Grab some Sweet Dreams Soda, a sweetness that's bound to last!"
: What's with the sudden product placement?
:: Carmella: I was in charge of outsourcing SoulGlad's ads during my sixth internship period... Some of it might have turned into a mechanical reflex.
: Can this stuff even pass a urine test?
:: Carmella: Don't worry. Even Intellitrons and IPC mechs can participate — The Xianzhou's Wardance has essentially become a tech fair.
:Luka finishes the Sweet Dreams Soda in one gulp, his face gradually becomes a bright red again.
: Luka: I feel much better... I'm very sorry if I said anything rude just now. I really think those Cloud Knights are a cut above the rest.
: Cloud Knight A: Excessive compliments can seem disingenuous if overdone, pal. We're just your typical rank and file.
: Luka: In terms of martial prowess, the average Cloud Knight appears to match even the most elite Silvermane squads.
: Cloud Knight B: Your praise is making me all confused now... Wait, could it be that... we're actually pretty strong?
:
: Luka: Those Cloud Knights said they were just ordinary soldiers... They were tough as heck, and yet they are just the Luofu's most ordinary fighters...
: Luka: Jarilo-VI has been isolated from the cosmos for so long that I'm clueless about things everyone else takes for granted.
: Luka: Forget strength... even the gap in everyday knowledge isn't something I can get past overnight.
: Luka: But no matter how wide that gap is, I must... wield my fists... I must fight, and I must win!
: Luka: Right now, Lady Bronya, Master Oleg, and Seele... all the people who stayed in Belobog are working day and night to keep it up and running.
: Luka: Mr. Gepard placed his faith in me... entrusted me with the chance to represent Belobog. I cannot disappoint him. Any of them! I must offer nothing less than victory!
: Luka: So... (Trailblazer), I would like to officially ask you to be my coach!
: Wuh? When did I come into the picture?
: I've never done this before. Why me?
: Luka: Because you're strong, and you know plenty of strong people... When you were pretending to be my coach in the last match, you were a great help!
: Luka: I want to bridge the gap between myself and this world... (Trailblazer), will you help me?
: Leave it to me!
: Don't blame me if you lose.
: Luka: Thank you, Coach! I'll do my best to keep up and train seriously!
: Carmella: Such a burning friendship. Don't do this to me, guys. My camera... it's getting wet, and the shot... it's getting blurry... Oh...
: Carmella: Luka, I'll do everything I can to assist you! You'll both become the most legendary coach and fighter team there is, and I'll create a special feature that will finally bag me that permanent role!
: Luka: Oh man... Miss Carmella, why is your dream making me tear up too...
: Carmella: Enough about me! I'll brief you on the rules for the next match first.
===Learn about the competition's rules===
:Carmella: All the contestants' lounges have been outfitted with such Tactics Board. Luka, you're an experienced athlete. I'm sure you're very familiar with this?
:Luka: Yep. But Belobog's Tactics Board are a little shoddier than this, not as technologically advanced.
:Carmella: They're all the same when you use them! Let's use this Tactics Board here to give you a simple brief of the Luminary Wardance's itinerary!
: (Look towards the Tactics Board)
===Participate in the Knockout Matches and win points===
;(Choose "Fantastic Botany and Where to Find Them")
----
;(Choose ""Ironshield" Gigantus Shieldus")
----
;(After first knockout match)
:Carmella: The first knockout match comes to a triumphant close! How do you feel, Luka?
:Luka: Not bad! I'm starting to get into my groove!
:Carmella: (Trailblazer), how does it feel, being the coach?
: It's pretty chill.
::Luka: Spoken like the legendary Galactic Baseballer!
: It's pretty tiring.
::Luka: Haha, you've worked hard, coach!
: It feels no different from fighting in the ring myself.
::Carmella: That's right! It's not some walk in the park!
:Carmella: We have time to take a short break. Let's return to the lounge and decide which opponent to fight next at the Tactics Board!
:Luka: Yeah! I'm on a roll, so I've gotta keep my momentum going and score more wins!
:
===Head to the Reception Hall and confirm your match qualifications===
: (Trailblazer): (After fighting in so many knockout stages, I think our points should be enough. Time to head to the Skysplitter's leaderboard to confirm our ranking.)
;(Approach the marked location)
: Luka: Looks like I've got enough points. How about it, Coach (Trailblazer)? Let's get ready to challenge some powerful opponents!
: All right. Back to the lounge to prep for the match!
:: Luka: Okay! Time to get fired up! Let's head back to the lounge!
: Let's spend a bit more time recuperating.
:: Luka: That works too. You're the coach after all.
===Return to the lounge and prepare for the first Faceoff Match===
: Carmella: Already a few matches have gone by in the blink of an eye! Have you gotten used to the situation, Luka?
: Luka: Haha, yes, yes, I have. But the hallucinations are getting stronger... Could there actually be something wrong with me?
: Could this be what they call a "culture shock"?
:: Luka: Can culture shock really cause such strong hallucinations?
:: Carmella: It's possible! There was a scholar from the Intelligentsia Guild who wished for an audience with the Erudition no matter the cost, but he went mad the instant he laid eyes on Nous. The minds of organic lifeforms are very fragile.
: Did you hit your head?
:: Luka: I'm a boxer! My head gets hit every other day!
:: Carmella: You should be more careful then. Many athletes suffer from brain complications in their later years. The minds of organic lifeforms are very fragile.
: Luka: You're starting to scare me now... Good thing I've got plenty of youth left to burn! I can't falter now!
: Luka: The next match is gonna be crucial, and my opponent is... I guess you can call her an old acquaintance.
: You know Topaz?
:: Luka: Never met her in the flesh. But who in Belobog wouldn't know of her?
: I guess you can say she's an old friend of his from back home.
:: Luka: Yup. Me and the IPC brass. Super "old friends".
: Carmella: Miss Topaz is the cutest among the Ten Stonehearts. I like her.
: Luka: No offense, Miss Carmella, but I'm not keen on the IPC. They nearly turned my home into an asset that could be bundled and sold.
: Carmella: Mr. Luka, the IPC is a megacorp. It's easy to pin labels on people, but at the end of it, everyone we meet is living flesh and bones with feelings. I'm also an IPC staff member. Do you hate me too?
: Luka: I spoke out of turn. Please forgive my rudeness, Miss Carmella
: Luka: You're right ... You're right... I should find out what kind of person Topaz is for myself.
;(Talk to Luka and Carmella again, optional)
: Carmella: Mr. Luka, the IPC is a megacorp. It's easy to pin labels on people, but at the end of it, everyone we meet is living flesh and bones with feelings. I'm also an IPC staff member. Do you hate me too?
: Luka: I spoke out of turn. Please forgive my rudeness, Miss Carmella
: Luka: You're right ... You're right... I should find out what kind of person Topaz is for myself.
;(Challenge Topaz on the Tactical Board)
: Luka: (Topaz... the IPC's participating representative. Honestly, I don't really hate her. I heard she was the one who granted the time extension... Maybe she's not so bad after all.)
: Luka: (But I have a certain instinctive wariness of those bigwigs from the IPC... No, I can't let that fear control me!)
: Luka: (If she's my opponent, I will let her witness our strength... I can't lose to her!)
: (Trailblazer): Luka, are you ready to fight?
: Ready.
:: Luka: I'm ready.
:: Carmella: I'm also ready to record some footage!
: Please give me a moment.
:: Luka: Please give me a moment.
----
: Owlbert (Remote Puppet): Next in the ring, two competitors with a deep-seated rivalry! The atmosphere is already charged with tension before the first punch has even been thrown! You can feel the fireworks about to explode!
: Owlbert (Remote Puppet): In the blue corner, representing Team Belobog — Luka "Strongarm"!
: Owlbert (Remote Puppet): In the red corner, it's the Liquidation Specialist of the Interastral Peace Corporation — Topaz, the Debt Retriever!
: Topaz: Who would have thought the people of Jarilo-VI would start making waves in the cosmos? It's a pleasure to see you here at the Wardance.
: Luka: I'm really looking forward to this match too, Miss Topaz! This is a great opportunity for us to showcase our Belobogian pride to you.
: It's been a while.
:: Topaz: Long time no see, (Trailblazer). I wasn't expecting to see you here.
: Why did you come to participate in the Wardance?
:: Topaz: This is a momentous event that only happens once every few Amber Eras. The IPC regards the Xianzhou Alliance as a close friend. Of course we have to attend.
: Topaz: I hear you're Team Belobog's coach, which really surprised me.
: Topaz: The Astral Express helped mediate Belobog's debt previously, and now you're assisting them in the Wardance... Haha. When a child is growing up, they need to learn to find their own footing in the world.
: Luka: The Belobogians have always lived under difficult conditions. We children already knew our path forward long ago.
: Topaz: Hmph, a lofty proclamation. I harbor no ill will towards Belobog. I merely wish to see if, after evading that debt crisis, the people of Belobog can truly stand on their own.
: Topaz: If we rely too much on the charity of major influences to help us overcome hardships, they will never truly become free, but rather remain a servant under the illusion of freedom.
: Luka: ...The people of Belobog have never been servants!
: Topaz: I apologize, just speaking my mind. It appears I've ruffled some feathers. Time to get on the stage, Luka of Belobog.
: Luka: You said it! Let's go!
;(Begin battle against )
----
;(During battle)
: Topaz: We may not call upon the Amber Lord's might, but that doesn't mean we'll go easy on you.
;(When the takes their turn for the first time)
: Topaz: Those who can knock down Luka! I'll be sure to give you an excellent score in your performance evaluation!
: IPC fighters: Let's roll, people! For our performance evaluation!
----
;(After the has been knocked down)
: Owlbert (Remote Puppet): Her subordinate forces have almost been whittled down! It looks like Topaz is preparing to take to the field herself!
: Topaz: Not like I have a choice. If you want something done properly, do it yourself.
: Luka: M... Madam Cocolia?
: Topaz: Huh? What did you just call me?
: Owlbert (Remote Puppet): Oh? It appears Luka is dazed all of a sudden.
: Luka: No... It's nothing... Come at me, Miss Topaz!
: Luka: (Oh no, my hallucinations are getting worse.)
;(After takes her turn for the first time)
: Topaz: Looks like it's time to get serious.
;(After has enter Phase II)
: Topaz: You fight well, Mr. Luka.
: Topaz: But it's time to end this game of playing house!
;(After takes their turn for the first time)
;( immediately takes action)
: Topaz: Apologies, but it looks like this match that should've been yours will end here.
;( uses Punishment of Endless Winter)
: Luka: So strong... She wasn't even using her full power just now...
: Owlbert (Remote Puppet): Luka has been completely cornered by Topaz! Will he be able to turn the tide on his precarious predicament?
;(After takes their second turn in a row, random)
::(Trailblazer): Luka, quickly use that move! They'll never see it coming!
::(Trailblazer): Luka, get it together! Throw a punch!
::(Trailblazer): Luka, change your angle, and punch!
::(Trailblazer): Keep calm, and use your iron fist against your opponent! Do it for me!
::(Trailblazer): Use this move against your opponent!
: (Trailblazer): Keep moving, Luka! The boxing champ of Boulder Town can't fall here!You cannot fall under 1 HP before this point in the battle
----
;(After the battle)
: Owlbert (Remote Puppet): And the winner is... Luka "Strongarm"!
: Owlbert (Remote Puppet): Team Belobog has proven its superiority and defended its honor! What a roller-coaster of emotions!
: Topaz: Ugh, unbelievable. Isn't that snowy owl an IPC employee? Why's he getting so sentimental?
: Topaz: Luka, you fought well. Victory is yours.
: Luka: You pulled your punches, Miss Topaz. Do you think so little of me?
: Topaz: Uhm, you're mistaken... For the Ten Stonehearts, going all out is something we only do in life-and-death situations. This is nothing but a casual spar — best that everyone emerges unscathed without a scratch. We don't want the IPC's protective gear sales to take a hit now, do we?
: Topaz: You took the win — have more faith in yourself. This was a hard-earned victory.
: Topaz: And... with all due respect, it was you who underestimated me, right?
: Luka: Of course not. I wouldn't dare look down on one of the IPC's legendary employees.
: Topaz: You peg everyone with an IPC job title as one of their lapdogs. You think we've sold our souls and become servants to profit. Don't deny that. I know that look all too well.
: Topaz: The IPC doesn't need fleeting intangible goods like souls. They only want profit.
: Topaz: My home and Belobog aren't so different. We are all struggling to eke out an existence in this merciless universe, hell-bent on living long enough to touch happiness. And the messengers of the Amber Lord gave me that chance. Just as I, on behalf of the IPC, am giving you that exact same chance.
: Topaz: So, you understand now? We have much, much more in common than you think, Luka. I hope that Belobog can find the strength within to lift itself up.
: Topaz: Now you've left your city in hopes of getting the cosmos to notice you, and that's certainly admirable. But, in this cosmos full of selfishness and malice, are you truly prepared to face even greater crises? Whether you are or not, I wish you the best of luck.
: Luka: ...
: Topaz: Keep it up and keep winning matches. I've had my fill, so I should be leaving. I have a lot of to attend back on the Luofu.
: Luka: Miss Topaz, wait...
: Topaz: Hmm?
: Luka: It wasn't my intent to look down on you. I believe anyone striving to survive is truly remarkable.
: Topaz: Don't take it to heart. Isn't it a tradition to trash-talk each other before a match starts?
----
:
:Press Officer: Congratulations to Luka for winning this match! And thank you to his coach, (Trailblazer), for accepting this interview.
:Press Officer: To the journalists who have arrived at the site, please situate yourselves appropriately, maintain your distance, and get your questions ready according to procedure.
:Press Officer: We're now ready for Coach (Trailblazer) to answer some questions from journalists. Please keep your responses brief.
;(Pick up to 2 of the 3 options)
: Front row, first from the left.
::Press Officer: Please ask your questions.
::Carmella: Carmella, Interastral Peace Entertainment. Firstly, congrats to both you and Luka, Coach (Trailblazer). It was a thrilling fight!
:: Thank you.
:: (Give an appreciative look)
::Carmella: I've noticed that Luka "Strongarm" is on a hot streak — something he eventually used to gain the upper hand and oust his opponent. But, we've noticed that midway through the match, Luka appeared somewhat dazed, like he is experiencing hallucination...
::Carmella: Regarding this hallucination, I wonder if Coach (Trailblazer) has any comments?
:: Eh, hallucinations aren't all that bad...
:::(Trailblazer): Athletes do plenty of image training in their regiments. As far as I know, some even train by visualizing themselves to fight mantises that are as tall as them. So it's not entirely a bad thing for Luka to see hallucinations during fights.
:::(Trailblazer): Imagining different opponents, how they will strike, and how you will counter them — these are all common occurrences. Luka has long been accustomed to such situations, so everyone need not worry.
:: It appears to be because he's under a lot of stress...
:::(Trailblazer): Everyone knows that this is Luka's first time leaving his home planet, Jarilo-VI, to participate in the tournament on the Xianzhou. It's normal for his nerves to get to him, and not surprising for him to be seeing things under duress.
:::(Trailblazer): He will be undergoing a full medical inspection at the Alchemy Commission to attune his mental state, so everyone need not worry.
:: From what I know, Luka does not hallucinate...
:::(Trailblazer): From what I know, Luka has not been hallucinating. That's just a rumor, so please be at ease.
::Carmella: I see... Thank you for your answer!
::Carmella: Later on, I noticed Coach (Trailblazer) making a tactical change, and it is because of this change that Luka won. Is there anything you can share regarding this?
:: I actually didn't do anything...
:::(Trailblazer): I actually didn't do anything. That was all Luka.
:::Carmella: Coach (Trailblazer) is too modest!
:: It's all about opportunity when you revise your strategy...
:::(Trailblazer): It's all about precise timing when it comes to tactical adjustments. This is the clash between coaches.
:::Carmella: Coach (Trailblazer) is amazing!
:: I think it's the opponent who was too weak...
:::(Trailblazer): Oh? I did such a thing? I was just competing like I always do. Maybe it was the opponent who was too weak.
:::Carmella: Coach (Trailblazer) is so brazen!
::Press Officer: All right. That's it for your questions.
: Front row, second from the left.
::Press Officer: Please ask your questions.
::Guinaifen: Coach (Trailblazer), Xianzhou Martial Elite Network special correspondent, Guinaifen here. First off, congrats on the win!
:: Thank you.
:: ...What news network again?
:::Guinaifen: Someone gave me a journalist pass, so just take it and run, alright?
::Guinaifen: Many predicted that Luka would lose the match, yet Luka clinched the win in the end as the underdog. To those media outlets that didn't favor your odds, Coach (Trailblazer), do you have anything to say to them?
:: I'd suggest you all quit the media industry...
:::(Trailblazer): With such amateur forecast analysis like theirs, I think they should just quit the industry.
:: Honestly, I can't blame them...
:::(Trailblazer): Can't say I blame them. Our Luka just hid his prowess really well.
:: I'm speechless...
:::(Trailblazer): What else is there to say? I don't think there's a need. It's quite clear in everyone's minds.
::Guinaifen: That's the Coach (Trailblazer) I know. Such poise!
::Guinaifen: But many netizens have commented that Luka seemed like two different people, from his performance in the first and second halves... There are some who even suggest that Luka should be subjected to a doping test.
::Guinaifen: Regarding this point, would Coach (Trailblazer) like to clarify?
:: He'll do it! We're not afraid of the truth!
:::(Trailblazer): Luka was subjected to drug tests both before and after the competition, is there any need to have it done again? Luka is a respectable contestant, and all I can say is, "facts speak louder than words."
:: Potential growth in a fight is immeasurable...
:::(Trailblazer): The surprise is understandable. But to Luka, who is constantly growing as a fighter, the ring is the perfect stage for him to surpass his own limits. He spontaneously evolved right in the middle of his intense clash!
:: There's nothing to prove...
:::(Trailblazer): I have nothing to clarify. That was a victory in Luka's image. All I did was menial work.
::Press Officer: All right. That's it for your questions.
: Front row, third from the left.
::Press Officer: Please ask your questions.
::Tabloid Journalist: I'm a journalist from Weekly Wenchun. Our company adheres to the principle of protecting our personal privacy, which is why I can't reveal my name. Feel free to just call me "that Tabloid Journalist."
::Tabloid Journalist: First off, congratulations to Luka on the win. I'm an OG Luka fan!
:: Thank you.
:: ...You're not going to congratulate me too?
:::Tabloid Journalist: Congrats, you probably don't even have to lift a finger with such a strong fighter under you.
::Tabloid Journalist: I'm actually less interested in the tournament than I am in Luka... I hear that Luka and Lady Topaz met before on Jarilo-VI, and share some history...
::Tabloid Journalist: I'd like to ask Coach (Trailblazer): How do you see their relationship?
:: They're not in any relationship.
:::(Trailblazer): I feel the need to clarify that they do not share any relationship.
:::Tabloid Journalist: Really? Are you sure you're just trying to not out them?
:: It's not my place to comment.
:::(Trailblazer): This matter has nothing to do with the fight. I'm just here to coach. No comment beyond that.
:::Tabloid Journalist: Oh, that means there's really a problem.
:: You should go ask them.
:::(Trailblazer): You're asking me about it? I don't know. Go ask them yourself.
:::Tabloid Journalist: Tch, but they're not even here!
:: Please remove yourself from the premises.
:::(Trailblazer): Please remove yourself from the premises immediately!
:::Tabloid Journalist: Why so heated?
::Press Officer: Might I remind the Tabloid Journalist to pay attention to your interview etiquette.
::Tabloid Journalist: Calm down. I have another question! Someone saw Luka and a lady who calls herself "boss of the Moles" share a room. How does Coach (Trailblazer) see this?
:: She's just here to support him!
:::(Trailblazer): You mean Hook? Isn't she a friend of Luka's from Jarilo-VI?
:::Tabloid Journalist: Tsk, boring.
:: That's just a kid!
:::(Trailblazer): You mean Hook? You mean that brat who still reeks of mother's milk?
:::Tabloid Journalist: It's a kid? How boring.
:: Sharing a room? You mean the lounge for contestants, right?
:::(Trailblazer): Insinuating the lounge like it was a bedroom, have you no morals?
:::Tabloid Journalist: It's the contestants' lounge? Oh, and it's a kid too. How boring.
:: Please remove yourself from the premises.
:::(Trailblazer): Please remove yourself from the premises immediately!
:::Tabloid Journalist: Someone's getting upset!
::Press Officer: Your chance for any more questions is over.
::Press Officer: Coach (Trailblazer), please choose another journalist.
:Press Officer: Thank you, Coach (Trailblazer), for your insightful answers. Today's Q&A ends here. Media personnel, please leave the area in an orderly and civil fashion.
:
:
:(Trailblazer): The latest edition of Luofu Sports Illustrated is out. Let's see what exciting news is in store.
: (Check Luofu Sports Illustrated)
;(Opens Luofu Sports Illustrated Issue 1)
:(Trailblazer): These journalists really will sensationalize anything and everything. Gotta watch my words next time.
:(Trailblazer): Getting off to such a great start in his first Faceoff Match should give Luka a confidence boost.
:(Trailblazer): Although, Luka's hallucinations have been getting more and more intense. I have to think of a way to stop them...
:(Trailblazer): Luka has his own supporters now, and this is wonderful news.
:(Trailblazer): Luka should be back at the lounge now. Let's take a walk nearby and look for him.
==Notes==
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