I was catapulted into minor celebrity status after winning the D.I.E. Regional Tournament. Students at school clamoured around me every lunchtime, asking me for advice on gameplay, challenging me to battles. Online articles and video clips breaking down my gameplay in the tournament were Liked and Shared thousands of times on social media. I was even recognised by a few D.I.E. fans as I walked through my local gaming store.

After being ignored and shunned most of my life, all this positive attention was a nice change, but it was also a little overwhelming.

Nathaniel didn’t seem bothered by the fact that I got more attention than he did, even though we both came first in the same tournament.

“No, you’re definitely the more dynamic player,” said Nathaniel generously.

We were walking through a park trying to find an empty picnic table on a warm Saturday afternoon.

“You’re very innovative and bold in a game that favours safe playing and less risk taking. That's always more interesting to watch than someone who plays defensively."

“When you put it that way, you almost make it seem like I know what I’m doing,” I said. “I just work out weird combinations and trial and error it on online opponents until something works. I haven't studied pro D.I.E. strategy properly like you do..."

We reached an empty picnic table.

Nathaniel flicked through his D.I.E. decks, choosing his team for our match. I glimpsed a completely white card in his collection.

My mouth dropped in envy.

In a flash, Nathaniel held the offending card high above my reach.

“Stop being so damn tall, Nathaniel, let me see that!”

“Only if you win. Which you won’t, because I think I’ve finally worked out a way to defeat you today.”

“But I’ve never seen a Spirit Kestrel before.”

“Alaric, you have your Dark Wolf. I want to have my own special card too.”

“I let you see mine, why don’t you let me see yours?”

“Repeat that sentence very slowly, Alaric. Very slowly.”

“Oh fuck you. No, forget that! Why are you laughing! Just forget it!”