Whispers and curious glances followed Wes and I as we left the Event Room.

“Did you hear about the Doubles team that completely swept the Preliminary Rounds?”

“Do you think they’re pros?”

“Can’t be... Pros aren’t allowed to enter Regional Championships. Whatever they are... I think they’ll win Doubles, for sure.”

“Really? The Twins are going strong this year…”

“Alright, I’ll bet three of my strongest cards if you bet that Limited Edition card of yours…”

“Damn, you’re gonna make us famous, Alaric Li,” said Wes, pointing to one of the many overhead TV screens displaying the Doubles leaderboard.

Our names were listed at number one out of over fifty Doubles teams.

“Don’t get complacent,” I said. “Number Two is only four points behind us.”

The TV screen now displayed the Singles leaderboard.

I looked at it extra carefully. 

Nathaniel was among the top eight Singles players.

I was happy for him.

I turned my attention back to Wes.

“Do you still have my Dark Wolf card?” I said.

“Of course, I fucking do. But I’m not giving it back to you until—”

“Oh, I know. I’m not going to use it for the Elimination Rounds,” I laughed. “You are."