#it's just that... well the game is about strategy and planning and anticipating your opponent's moves and ultimately overpowering them

[fist-amidst-the-hands]

kinda want izzy to absolutely decimate stede at chess and I can't explain why

[hirschkuh-im-traum]

Checkmate you

the plot is: you often play chess with alastor but alas you always lose to him. you tired of being a permanent loser and you propose him another game to revenge. alastor wants to make the game more entertaining so there's a new rule: the loser fulfills the winner's desire

words ≈ 6.3k

warnings: alastor is a mean player, reader has a crush on alastor, suddenly aggressive alastor, kissing on the chessboard, possibly grammar mistakes :(

author's note: i'm not a chess expert, i'm just a little girl who's visiting a chess club at my university. i just really wanted to combine my hatelove to chess with alastor and add something romantic

*. ⋆ ✧.·:·.* ☽ ･ ｡ﾟ･ ☾ *.·:·.✧ *. ⋆

You wanted revenge. You needed to revenge. You weren't a vindictive person, but you were so tired of this. You were tired of perpetual defeats, and what defeats! You were an experienced player and not so weak, although you didn't know all the theory or strategy and tactics. Surely, you had a lot to learn, but what was the most annoying is that Alastor was just the same. He'd never read anything from chess books, never learnt anything special about this game. Just like you.

Playing a game, you tried to calculate the moves, but you never foreknew the plan for you or for your opponent for more then two moves in advance. Alastor was an antithesis of you. It seemed that he foresaw any moves you could make, and he had a plan for each of them. He never thought too long about a move, because when you, for example, began to move your bishop forward, he already knew how many moves had left to checkmate you. “Darling, you should practice more.” You didn't know whether he had a strategy, but you did know it was impossible to impress him with any. Because, once again, he foreknew your every move, your every thought, your every emotion.

You were a calm player. No matter what move you or your opponent made, the expression on your face never changed. Keep your head cold, keep your face stone. You didn't think about your move for too long too but for other reasons. You prefered to have more time in reserve than dozens of moves calculated in advance, because you knew you weren't really good at this, and often you didn't notice really good moves at all, rushing to make a new move and realizing your mistake only when a chess piece was in a new place and your hand was lowered to the table. But even this didn't cause blush or pallor on your face. And this was your advantage, because everyone was convinced of your confidence, and no one ever knew what you were up to.

But not Alastor. He always knew and anticipated with pleasure your every defeat, reveling in it. Though Alastor was really a gentleman, always well-mannered, in a game he showed his more wayward nature. You liked Alastor and you even never scorned his sometimes mischievous behavior. But during a battle over the chessboard he was insufferable even for you.

He was that type of a player who said to you “Are you sure?” or “You have enough time to think twice, my dear.” when you took a piece in your hand. And all of this was said not with good intentions. His tone oozed venomous mockery, his eyes flashed with self-admiration and this toothy grin as sharp as his remark...

Both of you wore masks during a match, but you also remained silent, while Alastor just couldn't shut up. And though you were all patience, your claws dug into a dark wooden table when Alastor chuckled after another move you made. “Ah, apologize, darling! Please, continue!”. After that you had to use all your strength to keep a neutral expression on your face and not to show him how much his criticism bothered you and sometimes even scared you.

But he wasn't always this way. Sometimes, when you played for fun, just to enjoy the game, he was a courteous man again. Usually it happened when you played without a time control. Not only his smile became less strained, but you also let yourself make a joke about your not very smart move or about the way his expression changed when he weighed the best move. He adjusted his monocle and tilted his head, saying, “Just let me think, dear. And while I'm reflecting, do show me what you would do in my shoes! Oh, that's interesting…” In no control games he didn't hasten to checkmate you, didn't laugh at you (almost) and you didn't feel like being mocked.

You did like these games and their relaxing atmosphere. You could learn something new not only about chess but also about Alastor. Or even yourself. ”You know, my dear, I find intelligence the most attractive thing in a person. And I believe you're a very intelligent little thing.” Alastor told you this once during a game, making you for a whole week carrying these words in your head, smiling spontaneously when you remembered them and blushing, realizing it was the highest praise he gave you and your game.

But your last battle was terrible. Grins, chuckles, bemused looks at you, tilts of head… Maybe you weren't at your best, but it didn't mean he could behave like this. And moreover, other inhabitants of the hotel watched your game. Usually they didn't care, as they found chess boring, especially just watching others' games, but that time everyone, even Angel, were interested. They surrounded the table where you were playing, gasped when Alastor checked you, whispered when you tried to block him, sighed when he checked you again. His ever present smile turned to a grin, his eyes ran from the board to your face to see your ever-increasing despair, while your gaze was fixed on the pieces. You felt others’ gazes and it made you sweat more. To lose just in front of your opponent was unpleasantly but bearable, but to let others see your defeat was too much for your pride.

And then you lost.

You lost with the King and a single pawn that didn't even have time to reach to the opposite side of the chessboard, stopping on B7. You played whites, but it didn't help you. You played with sixty minutes of main time per player and with a thirty-second increment each move. But while Alastor was accumulating time, you were racking your brains, trying to figure out how to escape the defeat as you saw his pieces drawn up in the fatal for you position.

And now you wanted to make him feel what you felt. Hesitance. You wanted to make him doubt, to make him panic. You wished to see his eyes running all over the chessboard as he was trying to come up with the escape routes. You wanted to make him so panicked and so rejoiced at the move that he'd found that he would forget to press the button on the clock after that move. You wanted him desperated.

A thin predatory smile spread across your face when you imagined Alastor acting the same way as you, when he checked you and you knew that the last escape route was cut off. You smiled, imagining him tugging his hair in despair, and chuckled, imagining his frightened eyes and his crooked smile with clenched teeth.

But you knew it was impossible. And his face with ever present smug smile flashed before your eyes, making you drop your head on the bar counter with a dull sound.

“What's the matter, kid?” Husk asked you, dusting the counter.

“I wanna die,” You pronounced in the wooden surface.

“Mmm,” Was the answer.

‘And this is how we talk,’ you thought, lifting your head.

“Hey, Husk. Have you ever played with Alastor?” You were rewarded with a frown look. “In chess. Have you played chess with him ?”

“I won't tell you anythin’.” And he turned away to put the clean glasses on the shelves.

“I just want to win him,” You sighed. “I love playing with him, but… I’m tired. Especially after the last time.”

When Alastor put a rook opposite your King and pronounced slowly, as if he was savoring every sound of this word, “checkmate” you felt a soft palm on your shoulder. You heard Husk's voice, but didn't look at him. “You did a good job.” Charlie waltzed around the board, admiring Alastor's position. Angel shook his shoulder and told you some supporting words, but you barely heard them, looking afraid at Alastor. He didn't took you for a stupid, did he?

Husk looked at you over his shoulder, hearing your low sad voice. You looked so miserable.

“Listen, kid,” Husked said with a deep sigh, “I just don't understand why you like him so much, and I don't wanna see you get in trouble. It seems to me that you began to spend more time with him.”

Did he notice a pink hue on your cheeks when you looked away?

“Well, it's true we've become, um, closer. Because I do find him as a good company. It's always interesting to speak with him, and I really like the way he plays. He's so good at it, really!” Husk looked with a frown at you, and you smiled, remembering all the good games you shared with Alastor. “I just don't like that he's… snobbish? Sometimes.”

Husk just sniffed.

“And also I don't like that he revels in others’ failures.” Alastor’s laughter resounded in your head again. “And he doesn't just enjoy them, he literally savours my defeats! That's very annoying.”

“That's all he is.”

“So I want revenge.” You placed your hands on the counter, bending down and looking straight at the bartender. Husk started, seeing the red luster in your eyes. Your irises coloured in darker shade, but somehow they glistened in the poor light of the bar. He had a feeling that you could defeat Alastor. “I know I can't checkmate him, but at least I can make him sweat.”

Husk cleared his throat and said, “You play with him for a long time, surely, you know ‘bout his weak points.”

Your eyebrows flew high, when you understood that Husk was ready to help you, to give you some advice.

“I'm not sure about the weak points, maybe just the things he doesn't like. For example, a blitz game. It is always important to him to have time for thinking, though it seems like he knows all in advance. Hmm.” You tapped your lower lip with your forefinger, trying to remember what Alastor avoided in a chess game. Husk looked at you expectantly. Surely, there should be something else. “Well, once Alastor made an illegal move,” You said and fell silent.

Husk still looked at you expectantly, as if he was saying ��It can't be all what you're about working with.’ And then he said, “And?”

You threw your hands in the air and exclaimed, “I truly don't know what to do!” and dropped your head on the counter again.

“Jus’ deal with it and stop playin’ with him.”

“I caaaan't.” Surely you couldn't. These games may not have always been pleasant, but it was the only chance to spend time alone with him. To know him better. To become closer.

Suddenly a new thought like lightning flashed in your mind. You immediately lifted your head, and Husk could almost see how the thoughts in your head formed a tricky plan. Your eyes lightened softer and brighter.

“It's hardly a plan, but-”

“Where you are, my dear!” You heard a static voice from behind, and then a large palm lay on your shoulder. “I'm looking for you all over the hotel! It's not often to see you in the company of our dear friend Husker!”

Husk rolled his eyes and turned to the shelves to take a bottle.

“Alastor! Just thought about you!” You said.

“You did?” Alastor leaned forward, squeezing your shoulder and looking in your eyes. Then he harshly let you go and sat next to you.

“Yes, I want to offer you something. A game in chess.” You looked at him, playfully tilting your head.

Alastor cocked his eyebrow at you, “Why, my dear, I expected it'd take more time for you to accept your last defeat.”

You winced at his words but then smiled as wide as you could and said, looking directly in his eyes, “No, I'm absolutely fine, thank you.”

“So what is your proposal then?”

“Nothing difficult! We play blitz. Time control is five minutes three seconds. Ten second increment. And we have a judge, who records all illegal moves, because two of them mean defeat. And here is the judge!”

Husk chucked on his booze when you waved your hands in his side. “No way,” He said, coming to his breath.

“Why not, my good man?” exclaimed Alastor, “I've never seen you as a judge! Must be very entertaining!”

Husk shifted his frown from you to Alastor, thinking who of you two was more to blame for his new part. His gaze fixed on you when he sighed.

“But, my dear,” Alastor looked at you, “the rules are a bit strict, don't you think?”

“Nope.” There was no way to use other rules. These were perfect. They included everything Alastor avoided.

“Hmm,” He tapped his chin with his forefinger. “How about that, I also have something to suggest!” His hand fell on your shoulder again and went down to your forearm, he leaned closer to you, invading your personal space and said, “The loser fulfills the winner's desire.”

* ☽ ･ ｡ﾟ･ ☾ *

On the appointed day you three met in the room where you and Alastor usually played. It was not a big room in dark brown colours with wooden furniture. It was always warm and cozy here, thanks to the fireplace with a merry bright flame. The bookcases lined the wall on both sides of the fireplace. A rectangular coffee table with a light pattern on the edges stood in the middle of the room and was surrounded with two loveseats on wooden legs. In the left side of the room there was a chess table and two soft chairs with dark red upholstery, the same fabric as on the sofas. The room was also decorated with paintings of Charlie's family and landscapes of hell, candles in the bronze scones, and an old thick carpet on the floor in the center. The windows were always curtained with heavy maroon blinds and the door was two-panel, decorated with simple right-angle carving.

It was your favorite room in the whole hotel. You liked it even more than your own quarters. You not only played chess here, it was also a mini-library of the hotel, where you always could find a good book to read near the cozy fireplace. It seemed to you that this room suited Alastor’s style better than the style of the entire hotel, and maybe it was another reason why you prefered to spend your time here. You even made this place more comfortable by bringing two blankets and a tray with a teapot and a couple of cups. Now Alastor was pouring tea for you, while you were explaining to Husk how to set the clock. Alastor came to you with a cup of hot tea for you in one hand and with his half emptied mug of coffee in the other one.

“Thank you,” You said, taking the aromatic drink.

Alastor smiled at you and sat on the free chair.

Husk was still troubling with the device, muttering curses under his breath.

It was 10 am, and usually you played much later, often ending your games in the dead of night. But last evening Alastor said that he had unforeseen circumstances that he needed to deal with as soon as tomorrow, so your game will have to be rescheduled either for another hour or another day. “Thousands apologies, darling.”

And as you couldn't wait any longer you suggested playing in the morning to Husk’s discontent. He hated mornings, while you were a morning person. And Alastor never seemed to sleep, so playing a quick game in the beginning of the day wasn't a problem for him.

You emptied your cup when Husk put the chess clock on the table and said,

“Here. You play with five minutes three seconds of main time per player and with a ten-second increment each move,” He looked questionly at you, and you nodded, saying everything was right. “You two play, and I make sure that none of you make unnecessary movements or illegal moves and all that shit. As Alastor played last game with blacks, you both decided that now it's his turn to use whites. Oh, and the loser will do anythin’ that the winner asks them to do.” Husk twitched, saying these words. His worried look fell on you, but you were looking at the chessboard and didn't notice it. “Is everythin’ clear?” You both nodded. “Great. Shake your hands.”

For the first time this day you looked at Alastor. He smiled at you with his ordinary smile, showing all his fangs. In the light of candles his eyes were gleaming with bright red and his long eyelashes casted shadows on his cheekbones. Alastor extended his hand to you, and you shook his palm, squeezing gently his long, cold fingers. A thought ran through your mind, that you were the only one in the hotel, or maybe even in whole hell, who touched his bare skin so often. The handshake was firm but tender as always. Alastor traced his fingertips over your palm, letting go of your hand, and a pleasant electrik wave ran through your spine. ‘Wonder, how many hands he shook are bloodless now?’

Husk pushed the button, and the room filled with a quiet ticking and the loud sound of wooden pieces moving on the board.

* ☽ ･ ｡ﾟ･ ☾ *

His fingers smoothly ran through the air, as if he was playing the invisible piano, when he was thinking which move was better for him to make. His long claw-like fingers took a piece contrasting brightly with the colour of his skin. With a graceful wave of his hand he put a wooden figure in a square with a short thud. Alastor held the claw of his forefinger on the top of the piece for less than a second, before letting it go and putting his hand on the table. The chess pieces seemed very small, being gripped between his long digits with sharp red tips. The pawns seemed most fragile in his grasp, the twin pieces looked firmer, and when Alastor took the Queen, you couldn't suppress the fear freezing your heart. Alastor often resorted to castling, and every time you were impressed how smoothly and easily he made it, taking both pieces in one palm, switching them quickly and putting them down on their new places.

The very movement of his hands was flowing and natural. You did like his hands, and often you felt hypnotized with them and forgot about a good move you wanted to make or even missed the precious seconds.

So this time you didn't let yourself look up, holding your gaze on the black and white board and glancing at the clock sometimes.

He moved a pawn, so did you, he moved a knight, you mirrored his move. You understood that the Spanish game started — the same opening you did in your last meeting. But this time you were not so aggressive, trying to attack a bishop and conquer the center. You just moved forward. You captured his knight, and Alastor had no choice but to capture yours too.

You were tired of feeling weak, tired of tryings to prove to him and yourself that you were a strong player, that you had a potential. Though every time meeting with Alastor at the chessboard, you said it was just for your own entertainment, just to enjoy the game no matter what the result awaited you, you still felt the urge to win. You played with everyone in the hotel, some you won on the first try, some you had to match several times to win, but after all you checkmated everyone at least once. Everyone but Alastor.

‘Not for long,’ You thought, placing all your remaining pawns (which amount was still huge and promising) in a zigzag line. And that was the moment when Alastor's hand, a very elegant and beautiful hand, hung in the air. His brows knitted in a thin line and one corner of his grin went higher. He took a piece, that was not the one to which his hand first reached, and made a move back. You repressed a smile.

After more three moves when you shifted only your pawns and didn't even try to attack Alastor but avoided him, Alastor said,

“Dear, I thought you wanted to play chess with me, not the fool.” He captured your pawn, and you took away his piece. Alastor frowned, sacrificing his last bishop.

“Why? You don't like my game?”

“It's not a game, dear,” He said, capturing another black piece. He began gradually clearing the center, though the board still looked absolutely messy. Your pawn fence was blocking any attack of him, because if he tried to capture your pawn, you would immediately capture his piece. Moreover, it was getting tightly on the board, and none of you could make a really good move until your pawns would be cleared away.

“It's an imitation.”

“I don't understand what you are talking about. If you don't like my strategy, try to defeat me then.”

“Oh, darling, I will.” He captured your bishop, and you quickly sheltered the unprotected Queen. “I highly doubt you have a strategy, after all.”

“Play and see.” You pronounced in a deadpan voice when he replaced your other piece with his one.

Now the silence was disturbed only by the loud claps on the bottoms of the clock and the sound of pieces moving on the chequered surface.

You glanced at the clock. You had forty seconds more than Alastor. A quiet sigh escaped from your lips, and you made another move.

Your hand flew over the board with a mad speed. You pushed the bottom with a harsh clack, which made Husk twitch every time. You didn't try to count the moves, nor Alastor's, nor yours, you just wanted to win the time. And soon it started to seem that you didn't lose minutes, but accumulated seconds.

“Illegal move.”

You froze when Husk stated it and paused the clock.

Was it your move now?

Your eyes ran madly over all black and white pieces, trying to find a mistake. Alastor sat in front of you, and you could feel how his own tension lay on your shoulders. You didn't dare to look at him, because you saw the mistake. Alastor looked like he was caught in a snare.

“Sorry, kid, didn't notice it before, but you move like a fuckin' hurricane,” Said Husk pointing at white unprotected King. “It seems that you attacked him a move ago, when you moved your pawn and opened a rook checking the King. And none of you noticed this in a rush, but so did I, so…”

You were afraid to look at Alastor but also you felt blushing on your cheeks. You outwitted him!

“Ok, let's go back to the position where you made the illegal move,” Said Husk, and the pieces were moved to the position they stood ten seconds ago, showing Alastor's defective position. Husk turned on the clock, and Alastor moved a knight, protecting the King.

You sighed, glancing at the clock. Almost a minute more than Alastor, and all he had was fifty six seconds. But you couldn't let yourself breathe a sigh of relief and relax, remembering how Alastor won you in an armageddon game, even though he played black. It was incredible how this man could win in any condition.

And as the number of your pieces diminished headily, and Alastor's annoyed grin became wider, you gave up all the thoughts about strategy. Now you could only use the time.

Your hand took a piece, moved it, stretched to the clock headlong, beaten them, and after three or four seconds you repeated everything. ‘When will it end?’ Your hand trembled and you missed the button on the clock, which now you took for your last resort. You understood you had a losing position, still you acted like you had an advantage, attacking Alastor over and over again, not letting him fulfill his plan of defeating you.

Your heart skipped a beat when you noticed it. The black King stood diagonally to the white Queen and was unprotected. How long was it? Why didn't Husk say anything? Did he notice it? Did Alastor notice it? You tried to give a deadpan expression to your face as if nothing had happened. You knew just several seconds separated you from the victory.

Alastor raised his hand to take a piece and froze. Did his gaze fall on your King? His hand reached to the Queen, but his claws didn't have time to grab the piece as Husk exclaimed “Time!”

You moved your eyes to the white clock face and saw a twinkling flag on Alastor's side. With a deep sigh you leaned back in your chair.

* ☽ ･ ｡ﾟ･ ☾ *

Though you wanted to triumph over him you didn't expect it could actually happen. Husk left the room, and the door was slammed by itself. You heard a click in the door, signaling that you were closed in the room tete-a-tete with Alastor. With defeated Alastor. And it scared you. He looked terribly irritated and to be honest you would feel the same. A defeat due to the elapsed time seemed to both of you dilettantish.

But you were scared not only because of his mood now. You were also afraid to tell him about your wish, especially when he was in such a mood. Last night you prepared yourself mostly to keep the poker face on you and to accept whatever his evil mind could ask you to do.

But now your mind had to command him, and you were not sure what to do with it. Yesterday you came up with a wish, but a playful one, not a wish you would actually voice him. After the game your brain felt melted, and you simply couldn't find strength to come up with something new, as you could hardly think right now. Moreover, you still felt stress and a bit of fear that didn't help you to come up with anything fruitful, but only made your hands tremble.

He sat opposite you, intertwined his fingers under his chin and resting his head on them. He stared at you with a cheshire smile and half lidded eyes, frowning. You thought that if he was a cat demon like Husk he would definitely shift his tail side to side in annoyance. You swallowed but didn't had time to open your mouth as Alastor ruined the silence,

“Tsk, tsk, tsk, I thought you were an honest player, my dear.” He said, shaking his head in disapproval, “You really think you can trick me in such a fraudulent way?!”

“Alastor, learn to accept defeat!”

“Pardon? I wasn't the one who kept silent about my pitiable state in order to later win in a completely cheating way!”

“It was you Queen, you didn't notice it! It's not my fault you blind as fuck and can't keep an eye on your own pieces! And!” You raised your forefinger like every time when you wanted to attract attention and hush your opponent, “Your illegal move was unnoticed by both of us until Husk pointed at it, and so was mine! So we're quits!”

You leaned back, crossing your arms. Alastor leaned both his hands on the table, his hair became more shaggy, and his smile was crooked, so you could see his black gums.

“Fair enough.” He suddenly pronounced and ran through his hair with his fingers. He placed his hands on the table again and tapped against the wood with the claws. “But still it was hardly a game, dear. That's not how we do it. You mixed up the pieces on the board like a child picking up chess for the first time, and made me correct all this chaos. You knocked on this hapless clock, accumulating time, but did not even use it wisely. And you even cheated, no no, my dear,” He waved his forefinger in the air when you tried to object,” you cheated when you didn’t defend your King, making an illegal move. I simply cannot forgive your shameless lie so easily.”

He stood up and you did the same, staying near the chess table. You agreed with Alastor, and knew that if you were him, you would be disappointed just the same. But still his words hurt you and you felt shame. It seemed you preferred a fair defeat to dishonest victory. Maybe not truly dishonest, but tricky after all.

Alastor nervously adjusted his sleeves, saying to you, “For I still find you quite a fraud and I guess I should give you a proper lesson, I do respect our rules, as distinct from someone,” He eyed at you from the corner of his eyes, smiling sharper, seeing your blush, “So, my little cheater, tell me your wish!”

Fuck. The wish.

“Darling, time is precious, I still have some business that must be finished.” He said when you didn't say anything.

“Um, Alastor, how about I tell you my wish later?”

He turned his head to you and looked at you, rising one brow. You felt yourself so embarrassed, you wished the ground would swallow you right now.

You murmured, “I just... I didn't expect I'll win. Yeah, I wanted to and tried to, but I didn't really believe I could… Soooo, I didn't prepare anything, and I don't know what to ask y-”

You didn't finish your sentence as Alastor harshly turned to you, pressed you to the chess table behind you, so the pieces quaked and fell on the floor with a deafening sound.

Alastor's hands were on the table both sides of you, and there was no way for you to escape, as he hovered over you and pronounced darkly and low,

“No.”

The room drowned in darkness, as if all the light was sucked out the moment he captured you, and now the only sources of light were his red glaring eyes and several candles illuminating weak yellow flame.

“Darling, you are trying much of my patience now, so do tell me your wish.”

And then the normal lighting returned, but the man in front of you didn't move away, still pressing you to the chessboard, on which you almost sat now. His face was a single inch from you and you could smell the aroma of coffee from him. His breath fanned your burning cheeks. His voice had less static filter now and was lower.

“Or do you really want to miss this opportunity, hmm? Do you really have nothing to ask for?”

Oh, you did have and you were not ready to miss the opportunity. But how to overcome fear and tell him your wish? You stared at him and thought that maybe the worst things had passed already — he saw you fiasco, but still played with you, and he saw your cheat, but still was ready to end what you started, as if everything was alleight. Maybe he actually treated you better than others in the hotel, as Angel once remarked.

So maybe you could do it easily with your daring wish?

Right now, with no opportunity to hide and looking straight into his eyes, you felt like that poor King, who was staring at the Queen, awaiting his death. But the time saved him. You didn't have the time control to come to your help. You hopelessly stared at the demon in front of you, trying to understand why he insisted so much on fulfilling your wish right now. And what was his wish?

“Well, Alastor, I have something.” You pronounced timidly, and his gaze softed. He leaned back slightly, but his arms still didn't let you move.

“I need your permission…” You started, looking in his eyes and feeling how your sweaty palms slid on the table's edge. Your hand touched a piece, it rolled through the board and fell on the floor. From the locked door you heard some voices. Your mouth was dry and you licked your lips before opening your mouth again.

“What is it, darling?”

Your knees got weak and you pressed back to the table more, and Alastor leaned closer to you, ruining what was left from your personal space. His hot breath burnt your face, and you were sure he could hear your rapid heartbeat.

“Close your eyes and don't interrupt me!” You exclaimed in one harsh breath.

Alastor leaned back, widely opening his eyes in bemusement.

“Very well.” His hands slipped off the table to hide behind his back when he made a tiny step back and straightened himself. Then he closed his eyes.

Your wish was bold, so you didn't voice it to Alastor. After seeing his rage you were ready to forget about your stupid want, but then…

He was too close to you, closer than ever. He was as close to you as he was in your daydreams.

Casting all your thoughts away, you made a step forward, rose on your toes, but even so your goal was far from you. ‘Why is he so tall?‘ Carefully you clutched the lapels of his suit and drew him closer to you.

Alastor felt your lips on him. He didn't open his eyes and didn't move at all. Your warm lips were pressed to his skin. It wasn't quite a kiss, but a tender, chaste peck in the corner of his lips, almost on his chin. You held him by his suit, and he needed to bend down a little, so you could accomplish your desire. He smiled softly, imagining you rising on your toes, trying to reach him. He bent down a little more.

You felt his skin was tight in a lip closed smile. You slowly parted your lips from him, but Alastor put his fingertips on your chin, not letting you move aside from him, and then led your lips to his.

Alastor pressed his lips to yours, harder than you and braver. He made a step forward, with one hand still holding your chin and the other one placing on your waist, and you appeared sitting on the chessboard again. The remained pieces tumbled down, and like through the water you heard worried voices and exclamations in the corridor. You could feel his smile getting wider when suddenly something cut your lower lip. It made you gasp and finally open your mouth, letting his tongue slip inside, so he captured your oral entirely. You moaned into his mouth, and Alastor gripped you tighter. He tiltied his head slightly, when you cupped his face in your soft palms and caressed his cheeks. Now you heard a low moan.

The voices became louder and more anxious, and the door-handle began to tremble. Into your cotton mind a thought creeped that it had to be the residents of the hotel, trying to open the door and see why what was going on in the room.

You were short of air, but a thought of parting from Alastor seemed terrifying. His tongue explored your oral hungry, intertwining with your own muscle. Now both his hands held you by your waist and pushed you closer to him, and you could feel and hear his heartbeat against yours. You heard another piece beating against the parquet, and something or someone hitting against the door.

You threw your head back just slightly when Alastor parted his lips from yours. His hands held your hips, eyes shining as bright as the hell moon, red and blinding. He breathed hard just like you.

Next moment the door was opened, and a group of worried demons, and one angel with a spear, burst into the room. Alastor stood already aside from you, close enough to hold you again, but far enough to stay unsuspected. You stood in front of the table among the fallen chess pieces, red as a blooming rose.

“What happened? Why you didn't opened the door?” Vaggie ran to you, ready to spear the man next you.

“Are you okay?” Charlie appeared from your right, “We heard a quarrel and then a sound of falling something,” She glanced on the floor.

“What have you done?! It's bad bad bad bad!” Niffty rushed around the table, picking up the pieces and examining the floor for scratches.

Husk glared at Alastor, who didn't take his eyes from you not for a second, since the door was opened.

Trying not to step on the pieces and shifting his face from you to Alastor, Angel came closer, “Jeez, toots! Seems like ya spent a really good time together!” You still bit your lip, hiding blood on it, and your bashful look couldn't hide from Angel's gaze. “What’s happened here?”

All the gaze turned to you, and unconsciously you moved back, bumping into Alastor.

“Nothing! We played a game and I won!” Amused looks on you. “And then we actually had a little quarrel, but now we resolved everything, so no worries, guys!”

A huge palm, so familiar to you, lay on your shoulder.

“Not everything, dear, you still have to convince me that you can checkmate me without your lie.” He stressed the last three words, lowering his voice.

“You cheated?” Angel exclaimed.

“I didn't.”

“O-ho-ho! Call it whatever you want, sweetheart, but you still owe me a game. A true game.” His dark gaze was fixed on you, hands squeezing your shoulder and you couldn't take your eyes away from his gleaming eyes. Everyone eyed on you in silence. “Now, my curious friends, there is really nothing to worry about, so you can get back to your affairs!”

Angel cocked a brow, and Husk sighed heavily. Niffty tried to find a lost Queen, and only her tiny waving legs were seen from under the sofa. After you convinced everybody once again that you were absolutely fine (and your lip was bit by you, because of a brainstorm during the game), and Niffty found all the pieces and no scratches on the parquet, you were alone with Alastor again. The crackling in the fireplace was the only sound in the room.

“Now, my dear, I have to go. Duty calls!” And before he left the room he leaned to you and said in low,” But, darling, when I come back the pieces must be on their places — Niffty always confuses the royals — because we play one more game tonight, according to the rules: a clock, a judge and a wish.” His eyes were scanning you and then he stretched his hand to you and wiped away the last red pearl from your lip just to lick it from his digit, causing a bright blush on your cheeks. “And don't you dare to fool me this time, dear.”

*. ⋆ ✧.·:·.* ☽ ･ ｡ﾟ･ ☾ *.·:·.✧ *. ⋆

fun fact: this game in chess is based on my personal experience, when i pissed off a grandmaster by setting up pawns as a fence (it was my first day at the club, don't judge me, and!! he started it first, and i just imitated his actions, but he blamed me, and then he offered a draw) and when i won a cool player by randomly placing pieces on the board (i was so fucking tired that day, but i won, and the player said "i just couldn't understand what was your plan!" and was like "i didn't have any")

[hxhfkbmdhdjg]

"Why Chess Should Be Your Next Game???"

Looking for a game that will challenge your mind, spark your strategic thinking, and keep you engaged for hours on end? Look no further than chess. This timeless game of intellect and skill has captivated players around the world for centuries, and once you dive into the world of chess, you'll understand why.

So, what's the deal with chess? Well, imagine a battlefield where every move counts, where each piece has its own unique abilities, and where victory hinges on your ability to outwit your opponent. That's chess in a nutshell.

One of the things that sets chess apart is its depth. Despite having simple rules, the possibilities are practically endless. Every game is a new adventure, filled with twists and turns as you navigate your way through the intricacies of the board.

But it's not just about strategy chess is also a game of creativity and imagination. As you plot your moves and anticipate your opponent's next play, you'll find yourself thinking several steps ahead, devising cunning tactics to outmaneuver them and claim victory.

And let's not forget the thrill of the chase. There's nothing quite like the rush of adrenaline you get when you see your carefully crafted plan come together, when you execute that perfect move that leaves your opponent reeling in disbelief.

But perhaps the best thing about chess is its universality. Whether you're young or old, a seasoned pro or a total newbie, there's a place for you at the chessboard. It's a game that transcends barriers of age, gender, and background, bringing people together in a shared pursuit of intellectual challenge and fun.

So, if you're looking for a game that's as rewarding as it is exhilarating, grab a chessboard and get ready to embark on a journey unlike any other. Whether you're a casual player looking for a way to unwind or a competitive spirit hungry for a new challenge, chess has something for everyone. Trust me, once you start playing, you'll wonder how you ever lived without it. Happy gaming, everyone!"

[reddyannaid337]

Breaking Down Reddy Anna's Winning Strategy on the Cricket Field

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Introduction to Reddy Anna and her cricket career

Step onto the cricket field, and you'll discover a world where strategy reigns supreme. In this dynamic sport, one player shines brightly – Reddy Anna. With skillful tactics and unwavering determination, Reddy Anna has carved her name into the history books of cricket. Let's delve into the playbook of this exceptional athlete and unravel the winning strategies that have made her an icon on the pitch!

The Importance of Strategy in Cricket

Strategy plays a crucial role in cricket, elevating the game from mere physical prowess to a battle of wits and tactics. It's not just about hitting boundaries or taking wickets; it's about outsmarting your opponent at every turn. From setting field placements to analyzing the opposition's weaknesses, strategic thinking can make all the difference between victory and defeat on the cricket field. A well-thought-out plan can help players anticipate their opponent's moves and adapt accordingly. Captains like Reddy Book understand that strategy is more than just a game plan – it's about reading the situation, making quick decisions, and staying one step ahead of the competition. By constantly assessing and adjusting their strategies, players can maximize their chances of success in any match scenario. In cricket, as in life, having a solid strategy sets you up for success by giving you direction, focus, and control over your actions. So next time you step onto the pitch, remember that mastering strategy is key to achieving your goals in this beautiful game.

Reddy Anna's Key Strengths as a Player

Reddy Anna's remarkable skills on the cricket field set her apart as a player to watch. Her agility and speed make her a formidable force in both batting and fielding positions. With precision timing and calculated moves, she consistently delivers outstanding performances. One of Reddy Anna's key strengths is her strategic thinking during matches. She has an innate ability to read the game, anticipate opponents' moves, and adjust her tactics accordingly. This mental sharpness gives her a competitive edge that few can match. In addition to her tactical prowess, Reddy Anna possesses exceptional hand-eye coordination. Whether it's hitting boundaries or taking spectacular catches, she executes with finesse and accuracy. Her consistent focus under pressure makes her a reliable asset for any team she plays for. Furthermore, Reddy Anna's dedication to continuous improvement sets her apart from others in the sport. She constantly hones her skills through rigorous practice sessions and seeks feedback to refine her gameplay further. This commitment to excellence has propelled her towards success time and time again on the cricket field.

Analyzing Reddy Anna's Winning Strategies

Reddy Anna's winning strategies on the cricket field are a masterclass in strategic brilliance. Her ability to read the game, anticipate her opponent's moves, and adapt swiftly during gameplay sets her apart as a true tactician. One of Reddy Anna's key strengths is her exceptional decision-making under pressure. Whether it's setting up field placements, rotating bowlers efficiently, or pacing her innings smartly as a batter, she always seems steps ahead of the game. Her acute awareness of match situations allows her to make bold yet calculated moves that often turn the tide in favor of her team. Reddy Anna's strategic acumen isn't just about individual brilliance; she excels at rallying and motivating her teammates to perform at their best when it matters most. By studying Reddy Anna's approach to  https://reddyannaa-id.in/ strategizing on the cricket field, players can learn valuable lessons in leadership, composure, and tactical thinking that can elevate their own game to new heights.

Tips for Applying Similar Strategies on the Field

For aspiring cricket players looking to emulate Reddy Anna's winning strategies on the field, there are several key tips to keep in mind. It's crucial to understand your own strengths and weaknesses as a player. By identifying what you excel at and where you need improvement, you can tailor your strategy accordingly. Another important tip is to stay focused and maintain a positive mindset throughout the game. Cricket is as much a mental game as it is physical, so staying confident and composed under pressure can make all the difference in crucial moments. Furthermore, communication with your teammates is essential for executing successful strategies on the field. Clear and effective communication ensures that everyone is on the same page and working towards a common goal. Always be willing to adapt and evolve your strategy based on the changing dynamics of the game. Flexibility and quick thinking are valuable assets that can help turn the tide in your favor when faced with unexpected challenges or opportunities on the field.

Challenges Faced by Women in Cricket and How Reddy Anna Overcame Them

Women in cricket have long battled stereotypes, limited opportunities, and unequal resources compared to their male counterparts. Reddy Anna Book journey was no exception; she faced challenges like lack of support, societal expectations, and limited exposure. However, her determination and passion for the game drove her to overcome these obstacles with resilience. Despite facing discrimination and skepticism along the way, Reddy Anna stayed focused on honing her skills and proving herself on the field. She pushed boundaries by demanding equal treatment and opportunities for female cricketers, paving the way for future generations. Through hard work and perseverance, Reddy Anna shattered glass ceilings in a predominantly male-dominated sport, inspiring young girls to dream big and pursue their passion fearlessly. Her success story serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring female cricketers worldwide.

Conclusion: Reddy Anna's Legacy and Impact on the Sport

As we wrap up this discussion on Reddy Anna's winning strategies and her impressive cricket career, it is evident that she has left a lasting legacy in the world of sports. Her dedication, perseverance, and strategic approach to the game have not only elevated her own performance but have also inspired many aspiring cricketers, especially young girls looking to make their mark in a male-dominated sport. Through her accomplishments on the field and off it as an advocate for women's cricket, Reddy Anna has broken barriers and paved the way for future generations of female athletes. Her story serves as a beacon of hope and empowerment for all those who dare to dream big and work hard towards their goals. In closing, let us remember Reddy Anna not just as a formidable cricketer but as a trailblazer who defied odds and reshaped the landscape of women's cricket. May her journey continue to inspire countless individuals to strive for excellence both on and off the field.

[rummybash01]

How Rummy Bash Can Improve Your Cognitive Skills

In the realm of card games, Rummy Bash stands out not just for its entertainment value but also for its ability to sharpen the mind and enhance decision-making skills.

While many view it solely as a game of chance, delving deeper reveals a strategic landscape where each move requires careful consideration and analysis.

In this blog, we'll explore how playing Rummy Bash can serve as a powerful tool for improving decision-making abilities.

Understanding the Dynamics of Rummy Bash

Rummy Bash is a card game that blends elements of skill, strategy, and chance.

Players aim to form sets and sequences by drawing and discarding cards, with the ultimate goal of going out by melding all their cards into valid combinations.

The game involves evaluating various factors, including card combinations, opponents' moves, and probability calculations, to make optimal decisions at every turn.

Developing Strategic Thinking

One of the key ways Rummy Bash enhances decision-making skills is by fostering strategic thinking.

Players must constantly assess their hand, anticipate opponents' actions, and adapt their strategies accordingly.

This process encourages forward planning, weighing risks and rewards, and identifying the most advantageous moves to achieve their objectives.

As individuals engage in these strategic deliberations, they gradually cultivate a mindset geared towards making well-informed decisions in various contexts beyond the game.

Analyzing Probabilities and Risks

At its core, Rummy Bash involves navigating uncertainties and assessing probabilities to make informed decisions.

Players must calculate the likelihood of drawing specific cards needed to complete sets or sequences.

As well as the potential consequences of discarding certain cards that may benefit opponents.

By engaging in these probability calculations, players learn to gauge risks, evaluate potential outcomes, and make decisions based on rational assessments rather than mere intuition.

Enhancing Cognitive Skills

Playing Rummy Bash also provides a workout for various cognitive abilities essential for effective decision-making.

From memory and attention to logical reasoning and problem-solving, the game requires players to employ a range of cognitive skills throughout the gameplay.

For instance, remembering which cards have been discarded or paying attention to opponents' discards can help players make more informed decisions about which cards to pick or discard.

Likewise, logical reasoning comes into play when assessing the feasibility of forming specific combinations based on the cards available.

Balancing Short-term and Long-term Goals

Another aspect of decision-making in Rummy Bash involves striking a balance between short-term gains and long-term objectives.

While players may be tempted to prioritize immediate opportunities to meld cards and reduce their hand size, they must also consider the broader strategic implications of their moves.

Opting for short-term gains without evaluating their long-term impact can lead to missed opportunities or vulnerable positions later in the game.

Thus, players learn to weigh the immediate benefits against the overarching goal of maximizing their chances of winning.

Improving Emotional Regulation

Beyond cognitive skills, Rummy Bash also offers valuable lessons in emotional regulation—a crucial aspect of effective decision-making.

The game can elicit a range of emotions, from excitement and anticipation to frustration and disappointment, especially when faced with unfavorable outcomes or unexpected setbacks.

Learning to manage these emotions and maintain composure under pressure is essential for making clear-headed decisions amidst uncertainty.

Over time, players develop resilience and emotional intelligence, which are invaluable assets in both gaming and real-life scenarios.

Fostering Collaboration and Communication

In addition to individual decision-making skills, Rummy Bash also promotes collaboration and communication when played in a group setting.

Players may form alliances, negotiate trades, or employ subtle tactics to influence opponents' decisions.

Effective communication and interpersonal skills are vital for building trust, conveying intentions, and aligning strategies with allies.

By honing these social dynamics, players learn to navigate complex interactions and leverage collective intelligence to achieve shared objectives—a skill set applicable to various collaborative endeavors outside the game.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Rummy Bash offers a multifaceted platform for honing decision-making skills across different dimensions.

Through strategic thinking, probabilistic analysis, cognitive engagement, emotional regulation, and social interaction.

Players develop a holistic toolkit for making informed decisions in dynamic and uncertain environments.

Whether played casually for recreation or competitively for strategic mastery.

Rummy Bash serves as an effective training ground for cultivating the decision-making prowess needed to navigate life's complexities with confidence and clarity.

So, the next time you gather for a game night, remember that Rummy Bash isn't just about having fun—it's also about sharpening your mind for the challenges ahead.

[therealbrainlessshow]

Turn-Based PC Strategy Games: An Absolute Obsession

Ah, turn-based PC strategy games – the epitome of leisurely-paced, tactical brilliance.

It's like a chess match but with pixels and a whole lot more attitude.

Now, let me count the ways why I’m head over heels for these games, not that I need to justify it to anyone but myself, of course.

First of all, let's get this straight: I adore turn-based games because, well, I simply enjoy seeing my opponents sweat in anticipation.

There’s something deliciously satisfying about watching them squirm and flail while I calmly contemplate my next move. It’s almost a form of art, really.

The psychological torture that's going on is pure bliss.

And oh, to all the naysayers out there who can't fathom the joy of a turn-based strategy game, it’s okay if you don’t appreciate the finer things in gaming.

No need to pretend you understand the intricate dance of tactics and patience that we enthusiasts revel in.

For those who dare question my love for these games, let’s clear the air: I didn’t ask for your opinion.

I’m perfectly content basking in the glory of turn-based strategy games without needing your validation.

If you don’t like it, feel free to click away. I won’t lose sleep over it – I’ll be too busy planning my next strategic move.

One of the many perks of these games is the luxury of time. I get to sit back, relax, and ponder my next move without the pressure of a ticking clock.

Unlike those real-time fanatics who thrive on adrenaline, I relish the mental gymnastics of strategic planning.

And oh, playing against the AI is my preferred choice. Why bother dealing with the impatience and, let’s be honest, the sore losers of the online multiplayer world?

It’s a solitary affair, just me against the cold, calculating algorithms.

Less drama, more strategic conquest. That’s my mantra.

I've got a t-shirt that says it and everything.

Turn-based strategy games are an acquired taste, much like a fine aged wine or a perfectly cooked hamburger, seasoned to perfection and then broken up and added to a bowl of ramen. Don’t laugh, in many places across the planet it's a delicacy.

Turn-based strategy games might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but for those of us who revel in the seductive dance of strategy and patience, it’s a glorious, addictive obsession. No rehab necessary!

But hey, what do I know? I'm just a turn-based gaming aficionado, enjoying the silence of my solo conquests. Cheers to the strategists and may the impatient souls find their solace elsewhere.

Oh and one more thing, as much as I love PC strategy games I am not the next Caesar or Napoleon so the AI usually kicks my behind but every now and then…

[stauntoncastle]

Buy the Perfect Chess Set for a Healthier Mind and Body

In our fast-paced world, finding activities that contribute to both mental and physical well-being is essential. Chess, a game that has been played for centuries, offers a unique blend of strategic thinking and cognitive exercise. When you invest in the perfect chess set, you not only elevate your gaming experience but also promote a healthier mind and body. Let's explore how.

1. Mental Stimulation:

Playing chess engages the mind in a way that few other activities can. It requires intense concentration, strategic planning, and the ability to anticipate your opponent's moves. This mental stimulation is like a workout for your brain, helping to keep it sharp and agile.

2. Stress Reduction:

Chess can be a wonderful stress-reliever. Immersing yourself in a game allows you to temporarily escape from the demands and pressures of daily life. The focus required for chess helps to redirect your thoughts, promoting relaxation and reducing stress levels.

3. Improved Memory:

Chess involves remembering the rules, the positions of pieces, and the strategies you and your opponent employ. Regular play can enhance your memory and cognitive skills, which is beneficial not only for the game but also for your overall mental acuity.

4. Cognitive Skill Development:

Chess is known for enhancing cognitive skills such as problem-solving, pattern recognition, and critical thinking. As you navigate the complexities of the game, you're essentially giving your brain a comprehensive workout, promoting the development of these essential skills.

5. Social Interaction:

Investing in a quality chess set encourages social interaction. Whether playing with friends, family, or joining a local chess club, the interpersonal aspect of the game contributes to a sense of community and positively impacts mental well-being.

6. Focus and Concentration:

Chess demands a high level of concentration, requiring players to focus on the current moves and anticipate future ones. This intense mental focus can improve your ability to concentrate on tasks outside of the game, contributing to overall cognitive enhancement.

7. Patience and Planning:

Success in chess often relies on patience and careful planning. Waiting for the right moment to strike and thinking several moves ahead are valuable skills that can translate into improved decision-making in various aspects of life.

8. Emotional Resilience:

Chess involves dealing with wins and losses. Learning to handle both success and setbacks gracefully is a valuable lesson in emotional resilience. This aspect of the game can positively impact your mental well-being by fostering a healthier attitude towards challenges.

9. Physical Well-being:

While chess is primarily a mental activity, it indirectly contributes to physical well-being. The mental stimulation and stress reduction associated with playing chess can have positive effects on sleep quality, immune function, and overall physical health.

10. Lifelong Learning:

Chess is a game that allows for continuous learning and improvement. Investing in the perfect chess set is an investment in a hobby that can accompany you throughout life, providing ongoing mental stimulation and opportunities for personal growth.

11. Quality Time with Loved Ones:

A beautiful chess set is an invitation to spend quality time with friends and family. The bonds formed and memories created during chess games contribute to emotional well-being and a sense of connection with others.

12. Aesthetics and Ambiance:

Choosing the perfect chess set isn't just about the game; it's also about enhancing your living space. A visually appealing set can contribute to the ambiance of your home, creating a relaxing environment that supports overall well-being.

In conclusion, when you invest in the perfect chess set, you're not just acquiring a game; you're making a commitment to your mental and physical well-being. Chess offers a myriad of benefits that extend beyond the board, promoting cognitive development, emotional resilience, and social connections. So, take a step towards a healthier mind and body – buy the perfect chess set today.

[turnkeytix02]

"Courthouse Basketball Mastery: Pro Tips for Legal Hoops Success"

Welcome to the world of law, where getting around the courtroom frequently seems like playing hoops. Success in court demands talent, strategy, and a winning mentality, much like in athletics. We'll discuss the idea of "Courthouse Basketball" in this blog article and provide you expert advice on how to become the best player in the legal hoops league. 

Understanding Courthouse Basketball: 

Courthouse Basketball is a tactical strategy to managing legal affairs, not just a metaphor.Just as in a basketball game, plaintiffs and attorneys must dribble through the court, make planned moves, and aim for the winning basket. To succeed in this legal sector, you must fully understand the rules, anticipate your opponent's moves, and execute your plan with precision. 

Pro Tips for Legal Hoops Success: 

Know the Court Layout: 

Learn the layout of the courtroom in the same way that a basketball player is familiar with the size of the court. Recognize your place and the part each player (or participant) plays in the legal game. 

Practice Your Legal Dribble: 

Dribbling is essential in basketball. Mastering your "legal dribble" in the legal field requires improving your written and oral communication abilities. Be convincing, succinct, and unambiguous in your reasoning. 

Strategize Your Moves: 

Legal professionals must organize their plays in the same way that a basketball team does. Prepare your answers, anticipate the opposing counsel's strategies, and be prepared to change course as needed. 

Shoot with Precision: 

A successful basketball team has players who can make precise shots. Similarly, legal professionals should present their case with precision, providing clear evidence and compelling arguments to score points in the courtroom. 

Team Collaboration: 

Both basketball and the legal profession are team sports. Work well together with your clients, experts, and legal team to make sure that everyone is pursuing the same objective. 

Conclusion: 

Mastering Courthouse Basketball is about blending legal expertise with strategic finesse. By applying these pro tips, you can enhance your chances of success in the legal hoops game. Remember, just like a basketball player continually refines their skills, legal professionals must adapt and evolve to navigate the ever-changing dynamics of the courtroom. Play smart, stay agile, and aim for victory in your legal pursuits. 

[laxviplimo]

Game Day Grandeur: Navigating Sporting Events Transportation

Introduction

As the roar of the crowd fills the air and the anticipation builds, attending a sporting event becomes more than a mere spectator activity—it transforms into a grand experience. Navigating transportation on game day is a crucial aspect that can either enhance or diminish this experience. In this exploration, we delve into the realm of game day grandeur, examining the key elements of Sporting Events Transportation that contribute to the overall excitement and enjoyment of attending sporting events.

The Pregame Plan: Strategizing Your Journey

Before the first whistle blows or the national anthem plays, a successful game day experience begins with a well-thought-out pregame plan. This involves strategic considerations such as the choice of transportation mode, the route to the venue, and the timing of arrival. Whether opting for public transit, rideshare services, or private transportation, a careful pregame plan sets the stage for a seamless and stress-free journey.

Public Transit: The Communal Thrill

For many game day enthusiasts, public transit becomes the preferred mode of transportation. The communal thrill of traveling with fellow fans creates an electric atmosphere, setting the mood for the upcoming event. Cities with robust public transit systems often offer special game day services, ensuring that fans can conveniently reach the stadium without the hassle of parking or traffic congestion.

Rideshare Adventures: Convenience in a Click

In the era of technology, rideshare services have become synonymous with convenience. With a few taps on a smartphone, fans can summon a ride to their doorstep, eliminating the need for parking hassles and allowing them to focus on the excitement of the game. Rideshare services offer flexibility, especially for those who may not want to commit to a specific transportation schedule, providing a convenient and efficient option for navigating game day traffic.

Private Transportation: Tailored Comfort

For those seeking a touch of luxury or traveling in larger groups, private transportation options come to the forefront. Limousines, private shuttles, and car services offer tailored comfort and a personalized experience. Arriving at the stadium in style adds an extra layer of grandeur to the game day experience, making it not just about the event itself but also the journey leading up to it.

Traffic Dynamics: Navigating the Ebb and Flow

Game day traffic is a formidable opponent that can either delay the journey or add an unexpected layer of excitement. Understanding the traffic dynamics surrounding the venue is crucial for planning an efficient arrival. Cities often implement traffic management strategies on game days, and being aware of road closures, alternate routes, and potential bottlenecks allows fans to navigate the ebb and flow of traffic with ease.

Tailgating Traditions: Extending the Experience

For many sports enthusiasts, the game day experience extends beyond the stadium gates to the parking lot, where tailgating traditions come to life. Tailgating involves pregame festivities, including grilling, music, and camaraderie. Efficient transportation plays a role in enhancing these traditions, as fans bring their tailgating setups, turning parking lots into vibrant pregame celebrations.

Safety First: Responsible Transportation Choices

While the excitement of game day is palpable, safety should always be a top priority. Responsible transportation choices, such as designating a sober driver, using public transit, or opting for rideshare services, contribute to the overall safety of fans and the community. Game day grandeur should be enjoyed responsibly, ensuring that everyone gets home safely after the final whistle.

Postgame Departure: Easing the Exodus

As the game concludes and fans begin to exit the stadium, transportation dynamics shift once again. The postgame departure can be a critical phase, with a surge in demand for transportation services. A well-planned exit strategy, whether it's waiting out the initial rush, using designated pickup zones, or opting for postgame festivities, contributes to a smoother and more enjoyable departure experience.

Conclusion: Beyond the Final Score

In the realm of game day grandeur, transportation is more than just a means to reach the stadium; it is an integral part of the overall experience. The pregame plan sets the tone, public transit and rideshare services offer convenience, private transportation adds a touch of luxury, and tailgating traditions extend the festivities. Navigating traffic dynamics and prioritizing safety contribute to a seamless journey, ensuring that fans can focus on the thrill of the game rather than the challenges of transportation. As the final score is recorded, the memories of the entire game day experience, including the journey to and from the stadium, linger in the hearts of fans, creating a grand narrative beyond the numbers on the scoreboard.

[medranojonnell]

LIFE, IS LIKE A CHESS

Chess is a game that has been played for centuries. It is a game of strategy and foresight. Played by two players, and each of their moves has the potential to make or break their enemy’s position or play that they have on their minds. Just like our life, but you can say that “We don’t deal with just one person or problems in our life we have a lot of problems and people to deal with every day how can you say that it’s like chess?” Well, you are right, but I realized while playing chess that the game can serve as a useful metaphor for a life of a person, especially, teenagers.

                When we play chess, we must always think ahead and anticipate our opponent’s move. It requires a certain level of patience and discipline. As a teenager, we encounter a lot of choices and decisions that have the potential to shape our lives. Whether it’s choosing your passion over your career or which extracurricular activities you are going to take, we must always think that all of our decision or choices that we made has long-term consequences that will affect our lives in the process of growing.

                In chess, it’s normal to lose a game or make a mistake that can cost you a piece. However, the best players can bounce back every blunder that they made while playing and continue with confidence. The same goes for us, as teenagers, we will face a lot of failures and losses along the road. Whether it’s a bad grade, rejection from your crush, a college entrance exam, or a job and the worst one is losing someone you love. We must learn from those and use them as motivation to keep moving forward.

                Another lesson that chess can teach us is the value of learning from others. Chess players tend to study the strategies and techniques of their opponents to be able to beat them and also to improve their own game. As teenagers, we can also learn from other people's experiences around us that can shape our lives. Whether it’s a good or bad experience we can learn a lot from them and use them as a tool or guide that can lead us to a better future.

                In a game of chess, the board is always changing, and players must be able to adjust their strategy when things don’t go as they planned. As teenagers we have a small world and this small world that we have is constantly changing too we must be able to adapt and learn to navigate our small world, whether it’s adapting to new people that we met on the road and also the most important is the challenges and changes that we can experience.

                Lastly, my favorite realization about chess is the importance of patience and preparation. This is the most important trait that a chess player must have, patience. The game can last more than an hour, and mostly the person who has good patience and focus that can last a long time of the game has more percentage of winning the game. And to do that, the person must be well prepared for the match-up to execute the preparations that he or she planned. The same goes for us, as we go forward to our growth we will face obstacles and we must be patient with ourselves dealing with those. And we must prepare and give time and effort to developing our skills to pursue our passions.

                Our life can be challenging and filled with ups and downs. But, if we approach it like a game of chess, we can navigate and bounce back and regain our confidence. By practicing thinking ahead, learning from others' experiences, adaptability, patience, and preparation we can win all downs of our lives as we go towards our future as a teenager.

[watchpartygames]

Strategy and Skill: Unleashing the Fun of Football Card Games

Football is more than just a sport; it’s a strategic battle that unfolds with every play, and the excitement extends beyond the field. For fans who love the sport and enjoy gaming, playing football card games offers a unique way to combine strategy, skill, and fun. Whether you’re a seasoned football fan or a newcomer to card games, football card games can bring the action and drama of the game to your tabletop, offering an exciting and interactive experience.

Why Play Football Card Games?

Football card games offer a blend of luck, strategy, and decision-making, making them enjoyable for players of all ages and experience levels. These games often simulate the experience of managing a football team, making key in-game decisions, and executing tactical plays to outscore your opponent. They combine the mental challenge of strategic planning with the thrill of quick action, allowing you to immerse yourself in the role of a coach or player.

Here’s why playing football card games can be a fantastic addition to your game nights:

Interactive Gameplay: Football card games are dynamic, requiring constant engagement from players. Unlike some games that rely heavily on chance, football card games often reward strategic thinking, which keeps the experience exciting and unpredictable.

Learning Opportunity: If you’re a football fan, these games offer a deeper understanding of the sport’s strategies. You’ll find yourself making calls like a coach, balancing offensive and defensive tactics, and weighing risks versus rewards.

Social Fun: These games are perfect for playing with friends and family. The competitive nature of football card games makes them ideal for game nights, where players can cheer, strategize, and share laughs.

The Role of Strategy in Football Card Games

When playing football card games, success largely depends on how well you can formulate and execute a strategy. Like the real sport, you’ll need to balance offense and defense, manage your resources, and make quick decisions to outplay your opponent. Here are a few key strategies to keep in mind:

1. Balancing Offense and Defense

In football, an aggressive offensive strategy can quickly lead to a touchdown, but neglecting your defense may allow your opponent to counter your attacks. In card games, this balance is equally important. Focus on building a balanced hand of offensive and defensive cards that allow you to adapt to the situation at hand.

2. Predicting Opponent Moves

One of the best aspects of football card games is the psychological element. You’re constantly trying to outguess your opponent, predicting their next move based on the cards they play. This ability to anticipate and react to your opponent’s strategy will give you a competitive edge.

3. Efficient Resource Management

Many football card games have a resource or energy system that limits the number of actions you can take each turn. Knowing how to manage these resources effectively—whether it's saving up for a powerful play or using them for consistent progress—can be the difference between winning and losing.

4. Risk vs. Reward

Football is all about taking calculated risks. Going for a long pass on 4th down could be risky but rewarding. The same logic applies to football card games. Some cards may offer big rewards but come with significant risks. Weigh the potential benefits against the possible consequences before making bold moves.

Popular Football Card Games to Try

If you’re ready to dive into the world of football card games, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are a few popular ones that bring both strategy and excitement to your gaming table:

1. NFL Rush Zone Trading Card Game

Designed for NFL fans, this game is a great way to recreate the intensity of real football matchups. With collectible cards representing different players and teams, you can craft your own roster and execute plays to dominate the field. Strategy plays a big role in how you use your cards to outwit your opponent.

2. Fantasy Football Card Game

If you enjoy managing a fantasy football team, this card game might be right up your alley. You draft players, simulate games, and make key coaching decisions. The game emphasizes long-term strategy, as you need to build a strong team while adapting to injuries and unexpected events.

3. Techno Bowl: Arcade Football Unplugged

Taking inspiration from classic arcade football games, Techno Bowl mixes fast-paced action with thoughtful decision-making. Players use cards to call plays, making it a great game for those who love both strategic planning and the thrill of competition.

How to Enhance the Fun of Football Card Games

To get the most out of your football card game experience, consider incorporating the following tips:

Invite Friends: The more, the merrier! Football card games are best enjoyed with multiple players. Consider organizing a game night with friends or fellow football fans for an extra dose of fun and competition.

Track Stats: Just like in real football, tracking stats adds an extra layer of excitement. Keep records of wins, touchdowns, and special plays to create a sense of ongoing rivalry.

Customize Rules: If you’re a seasoned player, consider tweaking the rules to suit your group’s play style. Whether it's adding extra challenges or speeding up the game, custom rules can keep things fresh and engaging.

Conclusion

Football card games are more than just a pastime—they’re a blend of strategy, skill, and entertainment. By incorporating real-world football tactics into the game, you’ll be able to experience the thrill of the sport from a new perspective. Whether you’re looking for an engaging activity for a rainy day or a way to bring your favorite sport to the game table, playing football card games will provide hours of enjoyment.

[inaanutshell]

Strategic Productivity. How to plan more effectively

https://www.aanutshell.com/2022/06/strategic-productivity-how-to-plan-more.html

You cannot hit your targets if you do not set them first. You cannot increase your strategic productivity without a certain level of clarity of your goals and needs, and of course, without an appropriate plan, you won't be able to achieve them.

To be more specific, efficiency is doing things right while effectiveness is doing things the right way. There is no point in doing the right things if they do not bring you close to your goals.

The importance of long-term thinking.

Predicting your success stays on your ability to think on a long-term basis. By setting long terms goals it means you are saying no to infinite other options and possibilities. This is a good thing because if you remove other options you will be able to direct all your energy toward your goals. Once you know where you heading you will map out the steps you need to take and as a result, each action will have come more impactful.

We can associate strategic productivity with a game of chess where your main goal is to in, however, to do so, you will have to anticipate your opponent's moves.

Same as chess games go for your goals, identify possible roadblocks and key moves and take action. Everything you will do will be linked to the future that you want to create. If you spend time thinking about where you want to be in 5 years and you map out your steps and take actions you will have a better chance to achieve them, rather than someone who doesn't and just do things aimlessly.

The power of compounding effect.

The compound effect is another main benefit of strategy productivity and effective planning. Doing a task daily will build momentum over time and make progress each day. Having small wins every day will boost your confidence and increase your motivation, so do not underestimate the compound effect.

Each day builds on top of each other, the progress might seem invisible at first, however, at some point, you will reach the tipping point. When reach the tipping point things will start to accelerate and your success will be exponential.

In short, you have to build momentum and activate the power of compound effect, by focusing on a few things consistently over long periods.

The power of focus.

When you work each day towards your most important goals, you will tap into the power of focus. With enough focus, you will be able to achieve almost everything.

Think of focus like an axe, if you try cutting down a tree by hitting it in 1000 different places will never fall down. However, if you focus all your hits in one place you will be able to cut down even bigger trees. With sharp focus, you can achieve anything you desire.

As Bruce Lee is quoted saying: "I fear not the man who has practised 10,000 kicks one, but I fear the man who has practised one kick 10,000 times".

Many people will apply the first scenario, they will try to hit a tree in 1000 different spots wondering why nothing happens and then is no wonder why most people fail to achieve their goals.

To return to Bruce Lee's quote, for example, someone who practices karate every day will have greater chances of improvement rather than if they trained erratic and not consistent, or try to learn 3 different styles at the same time.

Conclusion

Well, strategic productivity means hitting a tree in the same spot until you bring it down. This involves:

Focus on only a few goals at the same time

Implement a proper strategy each time you approach your goals

Make daily progress toward these goals by taking actions that are aligned with your strategy.

As a resource we have used the book:

Strategic Mindset: A 7-Day Plan to Identify What Matters and Create a Strategy that Works by Thibaut Meurisse

[teawaffles]

The Conspiratorial Bullet: Chapter 5

Returning our view from where the two girls began to rekindle their beautiful friendship to the site of the flag once again, a fierce battle was still raging on.

Just moments earlier, the blue team had been at a numerical disadvantage. But with their allies having received their communications and returned, the battle could now tilt either way…… No, they currently had the momentum to push the enemy back just a little.

“Alright, we’re totally forcing them back here!”

“If we can get through this fight, there’ll only be a handful of them left. We just have to hold out a bit longer.”

The nobles had spotted a chance of victory, and they could even afford to smile now. But as they verified their opponents’ positions from within a thicket, from behind a tree on the opposite side, a mysterious object was lobbed in their direction.

“What’s that?”

One noble had noticed the item sailing towards them — a bulging leather pouch. But its opening wasn’t fully shut, and as the blue team members stood rooted to the ground, the contents of the pouch spilled out onto them from above.

Out the bag poured a vast quantity of dummy bullets.

“H-Huhhhhhhh!?”

Stunned, the men shrieked as the rain of bullets pelted them without mercy. Of course, in the blink of an eye, most of them had been covered with paint.

One of the noblemen touched the paint on his clothes with a finger as he spoke in a daze.

“Is this, really possible?”

It seemed that doubt had surfaced in the others’ minds as well, for those who’d been paint-bombed simply stood where they were, their confusion plain as day. And as they did so, in the distance, a figure watched them from behind a tree.

“Sorry about that. Still, this is a great tactic.”

—���As James Bond murmured that, he chuckled.

Needless to say, the one who had delivered that hefty blow on the blue team was Bond. At a spot far removed from the crossfire, he’d quietly made his preparations alone, and lain in wait for the chance to pull off this stunt.

Using bullets in this manner, when they were meant to be shot from a gun, could potentially invite controversy; but Herder had said, “If you get paint on any part of your body, you are out” — and not “if you are struck by a bullet fired from a gun”. In other words, if one adhered to the rules as explained, it could be said that this tactic of raining huge quantities of mock bullets on the enemy was legitimate.

Although they’d been suspicious at first, after a moment, the nobles looked at one another and laughed.

“That was an interesting attack for sure, but now…… what’ll we do? Should we call the referee and seek a decision?”

“Nah, we were completely done in — it’s our loss. Let’s bow out with grace.”

Far from leaving them frustrated, the innovativeness of that idea had felt refreshing; even as they harboured twinges of regret, the men obediently left the battlefield.

The red team members glanced at one another, as if wondering why their opponents were leaving the battlefield: it seemed Bond’s unconventional attack had surprised even his own allies.

Gazing at their puzzled faces with delight, Bond began to head for the apparent location of the opposing team’s flag. There was no rule that a certain person had to capture it, so he wanted to settle things himself if he could. With the blue team’s forces severely depleted, as long as they eliminated the remaining few members, they should be able to steal the flag with ease.

But the instant he saw the path to victory, from the direction of his own allies came a familiar voice.

“O—i, everyone. I’ve taken the flag. The game’s over now.”

That was absolutely impossible. A chill ran down his spine.

The voice announcing their victory—— was his own.

“Huh? We’ve already gotten the flag?”

“That was quicker than I thought.”

Naturally, since they thought the game was over, his allies had let down their guard. Bond shouted to them as fast as he could.

“No! That’s not me!”

But the warning came a second too late. Before his voice could reach them, several gunshots could be heard coming from their direction.

“……They’re done for.”

Bond bit his lower lip as he headed for his allies. There, a group of men stood in a daze, their clothes stained with paint. It seemed they had fallen into a spectacularly executed trap.

The number of players eliminated here was comparable to what Bond himself had taken out earlier. Once again, the balance of the battle had been restored, and his shoulders sank — but then he heard the rustle of leaves from a thicket behind him.

Sensing danger, Bonds dived swiftly into the nearby bushes. That instant, from the corner of his eye, he caught sight of a certain colleague’s young face.

Bond smiled as he raised his gun.

“You said you weren’t the type to get passionate, but that was a pretty nasty trick you pulled there ——Fred-kun.”

“That’s because I can’t let the team Mr William is on be defeated.”

Fred Porlock responded in a flat voice.

“Bond’s” voice from earlier had been a product of Fred’s mimicry. He’d led his opponents to mistakenly believe that the blue team’s flag had been captured, then took advantage of their lowered guard to inflict a massive blow.

“Hmm, so you’re determined to win too. Speaking of which, you’re rather passionate for someone who’s stone-faced.”

He purposely slung those provocative words over, and from the other side of the thicket, Fred’s retort sailed back.

“Perhaps — but getting too passionate only impedes my work. For me, an ironclad rule is to remain calm at all times.”

“I don’t think that’s necessarily true. It’s precisely this important work which requires a passion that’s second to none.”

“In that case, shall we prove who’s right?”

Fred’s unusually provoking comment had a somewhat joyful ring to it.

Bond chuckled.

“I knew you were a passionate man.”

With that single line uttered with joy as the catalyst, Bond leaned out of the vegetation and raised his gun. It seemed Fred had the same idea, for both of them were now pointing their revolvers at each other. But this was no time for indecision. Both men pulled the trigger, then took evasive action. The bullets passed through the exact spots they’d been a moment earlier, and they each hid behind a tree at the same time once more.

That thrilling battle lasted only a moment. Then, Bond called out with a childlike innocence.

“Aah, what a shame: I’ve been hit. Look, here’s the paint stain.”

“I’m not getting fooled by that — you completely dodged the shot.”

Fred had instantly seen through his deception. But even after his true intentions had been read like a book, Bond seemed to be enjoying himself, and he made to step out in preparation for his next move.

——Then, as if in response to that action, Fred raised his voice.

“Mr William, we can carry out a pincer attack now.”

“……What?”

That shocking line sent Bond looking around the area in suspicion. Then, as Fred had said, he saw William standing behind him.

“Hey Bond. How’s it going?”

“W— Will-kun!?”

For a split second, Bond panicked. He’d been trying to keep an eye out for William’s movements, but then the man showed himself just when he’d been focusing on Fred — this was the worst possible situation he could’ve found himself in. Bond knew he still had a few teammates left, but could it be that William had wiped them all out without making a sound?

In any case, it was a fact that his most formidable enemy had crept up behind him. Bond switched gears: in a flash, he took aim at William.

But far from defending himself, the man simply shrugged, as if he was troubled.

“Sorry, but — I’ve already been eliminated.”

“Eh?”

Yet another surprising statement. Bond’s thoughts were in disarray as he stopped himself, his gun still trained on William. Then, he felt something thud against his back.

“…………”

With an awkward smile plastered on his face, Bond turned his head, and looked behind him. There, stood Fred with his gun raised. Somehow, it seemed a slightly victorious smile had risen on his face.

He didn’t even need to check his back — he knew he’d been hit. With a magnificent sigh, Bond sat down on his haunches.

“Ah~, you’ve got me. So something like that was possible too……”

Now, he finally understood the plan that William and Fred had concocted. Bond ruffled his hair in regret, and William smiled as he spoke.

“There wasn’t a rule saying that you can’t take a detour as you leave the battlefield.”

William had anticipated the strategy his opponent would employ, then used the fact that he’d been eliminated, purposely passing through the frontline where Bond and the rest were in order to give the impression that he was still in the game. Of course, he made sure to tell the people he encountered that he was already out, so that they could avoid wasting bullets on him.

Even so, for those who knew William’s true power, the effect of his presence was enormous; now, just as William had planned, Bond made the mistake of leaving his back open to Fred.

“I didn’t think you’d also exploit loopholes in the rules.”

“Nonetheless, it’s a tactic bordering on foul play. Though, as long as Herder doesn’t show up, it should be alright.”

“……Will Herder-kun appear when someone breaks the rules?”

It was certainly an entertaining thought, but keeping watch over the movements of every single player must surely be a monumental effort. That said, it was flat out impossible for a single person to cover such a huge area — that was probably just a joke, wasn’t it?

In any case, Herder had yet to reveal himself; whatever the truth about his actions behind the scenes, with Bond — the mainstay of his team’s offence — now eliminated, this battlefront had effectively collapsed. As a result, the red team’s chances of victory were now almost zero.

“Aww, even though I was so fired up; I wanted to play on just a little longer.”

Bond hung his head in regret, and William smiled gently at him.

“It’s a pity indeed. Now it’ll be up to Moran and the rest to turn the game around.”

Analysing the state of the battle from here on, William looked towards the little cabin: the setting of the game’s impending climax.

Scoreboard

🔹 Blue team: Albert, Jack, Fred, William, Kevin, Andy

🔺 Red team: Moran, Bond, Louis, Helena

[chroniclerdl]

Seven Fundamentals to Writing Better Yu-Gi-Oh Duelfics

Ever wanted to write a duelfic just as good or better than canon?

Done right, duels are memorable action scenes.

Done wrong, duels shatter the suspension of disbelief. It’s already a big ask to imagine the world revolving around a card game.

You don’t want the tragedy where your readers yank the scrollbar past your duel, or worse, close your tab. Even the small pool of duelfic readers/writers like me will skip huge chunks of your chapters when the duels sag.

By implementing basic storytelling techniques tailored to dueling, you can hook your readers into following the play-by-play.

High Stakes

Consistent Rules

Sneaks Checked

“Balanced” Gameplay

Foreshadowing Victory

Engaging Description

Dramatic Tension

1. High Stakes

When you advertise your story as a duelfic, your first duel tells readers whether or not what you wrote is worth their time.

If your characters duel without a concrete reason to rip the opponent’s throat, readers already know the outcome:

You lose.

Why? The game is pointless. Who’s dropping whatever they’re doing just to read the equivalent of your characters sipping afternoon tea? If you’re introducing the setting and characters, why can’t you introduce exciting threats?

No reader expects your first duel to decide the fate of the world, but your characters still need to bet.

Characters wager life chips.

If your character loses, they suffer death or suicide-inducing despair.

Is it too much to start with life-and-death? No. Think of the life chip as the culmination of hopes and dreams.

As the story progresses, the stakes will rise, must rise. How? Others will entrust the main characters with their own life chips, and/or the life chips acquire additional meaning. Consider this loose analogy: at the end of a poker tournament, gamblers sit at the final table with stacks built from the chips of others.

Life chips mean different things to different characters. Let’s take the Duelist Kingdom arc.

Yugi’s life chip is the hope to save his grandfather (and later, his own soul)

Joey’s life chip is the hope to win the prize money to fund his sister’s medical operation

Kaiba’s life chip is the hope to save his little brother (and later, his own soul)

You don’t even need your final showdown to revolve around the fate of world; it just has to be one or more things that matter to your characters.

Also, make sure to communicate the stakes, or why the characters accept uneven bets.

If you have the chops, you can also play around with disguising the stakes. As in, your character thinks they’re wagering something small, but it’s actually their life chip. However, your readers still need a vague reason to believe that a defeat will devour the character.

Always make sure the characters stake one or more life chips!

2. Consistent Rules

If you watched the Duelist Kingdom arc and tried to understand the moves everyone made, your head exploded.

Ask yourself: will the clever scheme that your hero invented drive readers crazy?

If I write a magic system that requires a wand, this applies to all. I cannot become a genius and suddenly wave my hands to cast magic.

Demonstrate the rules early, preferably in the first duel, and keep them sacred.

If you must make an exception, establish it early. In that case, the exception becomes a well-defined branch of the rules that the readers can anticipate.

Can the players magically draw the card they need, whenever they want?

If you can establish the when and why, by all means. The readers proceed with the understanding that the players can reach into their deck like a glorified toolbox.

For example, Duel Links has a concept called “skills” that function like a player’s special ability. At the time I wrote this, Yami Yugi’s “Destiny Draw” skill lets the player take any card from their deck once per duel after losing 2000LP (and even if they stacked the top of the deck earlier!).

Card should also have the same, predictable effect. If the card prevents attacks, I doubt the text discusses physical properties or mentions holding things in the air. But you knew that, right?

The rules are the laws of the universe.

3. Sneaks Checked

I love duels. I also love getting what I want.

Why does getting what I want have to be through a duel?

If we talk, maybe we can come to an agreement. If I blackmail you, maybe you’ll give in to my demands. If I shoot you, I can loot your corpse. Give the readers a good reason as to why your characters would bother with the hassle of honest dueling and can’t wiggle from the consequences of losing.

Often, the duel takes place in the context of a tournament. Hopefully, the tournament officials are keeping a good eye on the players and cracking down on cheaters.

However, even that’s not a guarantee. What’s the key concept?

Power.

The competitors have equivalent capacity for coercion (usually violence) or have a neutral referee presiding over the match with the most capacity for coercion (shoutout to gambling manga Usogui).

Anyone who enters a game otherwise has lost before the first move.

In Yu-Gi-Oh, magical and sci-fi enforcement are common. The Shadow Realm can trap the loser in a desolate hell. In a digital world, the loser suffers deletion. Or just have good tournament officials.

Be vigilant when your duel doesn’t call upon these tropes.

Your amoral characters won’t mind blindsiding your other characters, and they won’t mind blindsiding you with a plot hole.

If you’re not careful, the readers will ask you why they played uncharacteristically fair.

4. “Balanced” Gameplay

Duels should be fair and fun…for the villain.

Ostensibly, everyone plays a balanced game, designed to give both sides a sporting chance. In reality, the villain tilts the field to their favor with one or more tricks up their sleeves. Why would your villain ever fight fair?

But that’s fine. We love rooting for the underdog and watching the villain get their comeuppance.

Overpowered ability to let the villain read minds? Deck full of unbalanced cards that makes the villain’s monsters invincible with no drawback? Creator who knows every strategy in the game? Readers will turn the page as they wonder how the hero will prevail.

The more obstacles you can throw in the hero’s way, the better.

Got custom cards? No problem, just follow a couple guidelines. After all, some duelists are more equal than others.

The hero’s deck is full of regular cards that have a cost to use. For every play they want to make, their cards insist that they give up their attack, discard to play, etc.

The villain’s deck is full of rare cards that power up their game for free. So long as you can justify why the card made it to print, the villain can play whatever they want.

For every step your hero takes, the villain gets two.

5. Foreshadowing Victory

How many times have you watched a duel where the protagonist comes up with this never-before-seen card that does exactly what the protagonist needs to clinch the win? In the final showdown, no less? It’s like the writers begged to be called amateurs and idiots.

No other genre tolerates such laziness.

However, readers don’t want an infodump of the characters’ decks. Show the cards in action. To cover the deck, you'll probably need multiple duels.

This also implies you have more freedom in how your character defeats their early opponents in the duelfic.

Does that previous statement contradict what I said about never-before-seen cards clinching the win as the mark of laziness? No, because here’s the rule:

Tolerance for the hero’s new cards decreases as the story progresses.

(Notice that I specify the hero’s new cards; your villains exist to make life harder by inventing unfair tricks.)

When you must include new cards for the hero late in the duelfic, at least find a way to make them first backfire.

Now, some writers have lots of knowledge about the card pool and metagame. Can they assume the readers a priori know the hero has access to any of the available cards in a given archetype?

I’d err on the side of caution and properly foreshadow the cards before they appear late in the duelfic. Not every reader is a walking card database. They have no reason to assume something exists unless you show the card.

Take the tolerance rule into consideration when planning your duels. If you know the awesome combo you want to use for the final turn in the duelfic climax, that’s your cue to scatter the cards into the earlier duels.

Plan the last duel first and your early duels last.

6. Description

Every reader wants a front-row seat to the action.

They’re paying you their time, so make it worth the admission: sleek combatants & budget-busting fights. Kaiba invented Solid Vision technology for a reason, so help readers envision your duels.

Who’s fighting? Describe the point-of-view’s impression of the monsters’ appearances. Red-Eyes Black Dragon should be self-explanatory.

What about a decorated monster like Time Wizard?

You could go into detail about how the red clock humanoid has yellow gears that form epaulets and purple, pointy boots and a green mustache made from clock hands and so on, but such a level of minutiae bogs pacing and invites skimming.

Readers just need to hear about a purple-caped, red clock humanoid with a wand to form an image. Their imaginations can handle the little details.

Paint appearances in broad strokes and one or two brief sentences.

How are the monsters fighting? Duel Monsters is a game where the target takes the aggressor’s attack like a champ. That doesn’t mean you can’t spice it up.

For example, my opponent’s dragon attacks my weaker knight with a fireball. My knight, interested in not dying, raises his shield. Unfortunately, he screams as the flames engulf him.

You wouldn’t just stand still with a straight face if someone armed with a knife lunged for your gut.

A fight scene is a string of action and reaction.

Most people also experience life in more senses than just sight.

A dragon’s fireball is a bright reddish-orange, hot, dries the air, smoky, and explodes with a boom on impact. I never tasted a fireball, and I hope I never do, but that’s still four senses: sight, touch, smell, and sound.

Include multiple sensory details.

Let’s spare a moment to talk about the heads-up display (HUD).

In Yu-Gi-Oh, cards have multiple stats and abilities. You’re free to mention whatever you deem necessary. No set formula exists. On one extreme, you can mention nothing to keep the narrative clean at the risk of confusing the readers. At the other extreme, infodumps about the monster’s abilities provide great detail but wreck the pacing. But there’s a cozy middle.

State only what you need from the card.

If your duels occurred before the era of Synchro, you don’t need details about levels. You can just display the basic stats to determine the stronger monster. If a deck has Pendulum monsters, just mention the scale numbers when they're played as scales. And so on.

You can also make an index of new cards at the end of a chapter.

BONUS TIP! Understanding show, don’t tell.

What is show, don’t tell? At its core, this concept refers to immersing your readers in the senses and feelings instead of exposition. Unfortunately, that definition is a bit vague to execute. After writing for a while, I had my lightbulb moment.

Don’t TELL the readers how to think or force-feed them a conclusion.

SHOW your readers the evidence.

Here’s a written example from Joey vs. Rex in Duelist Kingdom. See if you can spot what makes this prose telling instead of showing.

“Joey watched nervously as Two-Headed King Rex stomped Baby Dragon. He messed up his Baby Dragon-Time Wizard combo!”

You can see two failures: “nervously” and the second sentence.

Adverbs like “nervously” and other “-ly” friends get a bad rep because rookies tend to use them as telling crutches (especially beware adverbs after dialogue tags!). “Nervously” tells me how Joey reacts. But what does “nervously” look like? One character might bite their thumb. Another might fidget in their seat. The adverb in this context lacks nuance.

We also have the second sentence: “He messed up his Baby Dragon-Time Wizard combo!” When you’re explaining the “why” to something, you’re telling. It’s like talking down to your readers.

Contrast with the next example.

“A bead of sweat rolled off Joey’s face as Two-Headed King Rex stomped Baby Dragon. He stared at the Time Wizard in his hand.”

The first sentence shows me Joey’s physical reaction. I see him sweating, so I think he’s nervous.

We also see a second physical reaction: “He stared at the Time Wizard in his hand.” This comes on the heels of the first sentence, and I also have knowledge of when Joey used the Baby Dragon-Time Wizard combo in a prior duel. Combined, I think Joey is ruminating about a missed chance.

Readers are smart; they’ll catch your intention if you show the proof.

7. Dramatic Tension

I bet you know what it's like to draw a bad hand.

Imagine: The hero staggers into the arena, and the villain just needs to win one duel to take over the world. The villain draws a bunch of powerups with no monster, but the hero draws a one-turn-kill combo.

Anticlimactic. The readers throw that duelfic straight into the trash.

Don’t just write real-life duels. “It really happened” doesn’t mean it’s emotionally satisfying.

That’s why we have literary structure.

Success and setback pace together with progressive intensity to maximize dramatic tension and emotional payoff.

I’ll spare the nitty-gritty theory detail, but your duels should look like this on a basic level:

Part 1: Villain’s basic threats. Introduces the villain’s deck and style.

Part 2: Villain’s minor strategy. The villain’s first serious attempt to defeat the hero.

Part 3: Villain’s major strategy. The hero’s reversal! But the villain has worse in store.

Part 4: Hero’s imminent defeat. The hero must break through, or else will instantly lose!

Ideally, you’re also integrating the story itself into the duel; themes and duels synergize to create a stronger effect.

You may notice how the format resembles the three-act structure.

Act I is Part 1

Act II until the Act II midpoint is Part 2

Act II midpoint until Act III is Part 3

Act III is part 4.

I’ll use Yugi/Pharaoh vs. Pegasus in Duelist Kingdom as an example.

Part 1: Mind scan. Pegasus can read minds to counter combos.

Part 2: Toon World. Indestructible, cartoonified monsters attack.

Part 3: Shadow game. Toons destroyed! But playing a shadow game weakens Yugi.

Part 4: Yugi passes out. The Pharaoh must find a new way to stop Pegasus’s mind scan!

Figure out each part of the structure for your duels before writing the turn-by-turn plays.

By the way, modern real-life Yu-Gi-Oh duels don’t suit drama because the rules provide weak constraints to creating strong boards. A good modern deck usually establishes a scary turn one board and jumps straight into Part 4, whereas other card games like Magic: The Gathering and Hearthstone force the powerhouse cards to wait several turns until the player builds the mana to pay costs.

You can still write a good modern duel. Here’s a basic outline of Arc-V’s duel between Sora and Shay. Technically, “tragedy” is the structure of this duel, so I’ll make Shay the “hero” to flip it and keep matters simplified.

Part 1: Basic monsters. These clash before a monster appears from the Extra Deck.

Part 2: Frightfurs. They come one after another to crush Shay’s Raidraptors.

Part 3: Sora’s wrath. Rise Falcon survives! But Sora’s malevolent nature comes to light.

Part 4: Frightfur Chimera. Sora chomps candy and summons his biggest fusion horror!

If following the four parts is too difficult for you, that’s okay. They're just logical extensions of one basic concept. Keep the following in mind, and you’ll never go wrong:

The villain’s subsequent threats become increasingly overwhelming.

Conclusion

Much of writing a duel boils down to storytelling technique.

Let’s tl;dr the main takeaways.

High Stakes: Minimum ante is the life chip, worth a character’s hopes and dreams.

Consistent Rules: Everyone plays by the same logic.

Sneaks Checked: Characters can’t skip the duels with violence and coercion.

“Balanced” Gameplay: Villains enjoy advantages.

Foreshadowing Victory: Readers have a chance to predict the winning combo.

Engaging Description: Immerse senses and invite reactions.

Dramatic Tension: The villain makes progressively stronger threats.

As a duelfic reader/writer, I can gauge a writer's ability by measuring their duels with the fundamentals. Many fan writers struggle; even the canon writers struggle.

But writing a duelfic isn’t rocket science. With practice, minding the fundamentals will become second nature.

And don't forget to tag your story as a duelfic. It's a whole genre in fanfic, so sort it properly and help readers from the future find you.

May the heart of the cards be with you.

…

Want to see in-depth examples of my advice? I rewrote the Orichalcos arc to reimagine its untapped potential without the failures of the canon presentation. You can find it on FFnet and AO3.

[isnt-it-pretty]

A The Queen’s Gambit inspired Sylvix fic I’ve had sitting in my drafts forever. Figured I may as well post the WIP!

TW for substance abuse, and generally everything terrible from both FE3H and from The Queen’s Gambit.

The room is silent. Hundreds of people wait with baited breath as two of the world's leading chess players fight across a wooden board. The pieces are lacquered - hand carved. Only the best for the players in Enbarr.

Sylvain studies the board, picking out his response to his opponents play several steps ahead. It's already the second day - five long hours the night previous left them both exhausted. Sylvain barely remembered to eat before crashing for 13 hours.

His opponent lifts a piece, his rook, and moves it forward. It's a clever strategy, but it won't be enough. The man across from him knows it too - he's twice Sylvain's age, but desperately trying to keep up.

They see it at the same time. A single move, and it'll be finished. There won't be a way for his opponent to come back from it. If he moves his bishop, it'll all be over. His opponent will resign, and Sylvain will be the youngest world champion at 22 years old.

It's his turn, he stares at the piece, his brain ticking into overdrive. It would be so easy, just to move to pieces. But then what? What else does Sylvain have but chess? He has no friends, has a family only in name. The media hates him, a stark contrast to being the Darling of the chess world at seven years old.

One move. And he'll win. He'll prove Miklan wrong, prove the media — his former friends, wrong.

He should have drank more before coming.

His hand is reaching for his king before he even realizes it - the words leaving his lip of their own accord. It feels right.

"I resign."

He knocks over his king, the hall is silent in shock.

Sylvain gets up, doesn't even bother shaking his opponents hand, and walks out.

...

He stops by his room with a single mindedness. His phone is going crazy, but Sylvain hasn't checked to see who is trying to reach him.

Everybody, probably.

His mother must be having an aneurysm, the media must be going insane.

He opens the door to his room and tosses the phone on the bed. His wallet too, but not before emptying out his cash as a tip for hotel staff. $500 total.

It's barely anything compared to his sizable room service charges - which is probably the cost of his room twice over. It's all paid for, he never leaves debt at a hotel.

There's an untouched bottle of whiskey on top of his mini bar. Expensive in beautiful glass. He hasn't touched it, preferring cheap straight liquor. Just because he can afford expensive drinks doesn't mean he bothers with it. He stops noticing the taste soon enough anyway.

He doesn't bother getting changed as he grabs the whiskey and heads out of the room. Somebody will come bother him if he stays there, and he doesn't want to be disturbed. Doesn't want to think.

Sylvain just threw the biggest match of his life, yet he can't bring himself to care.

The roof access is unlocked, which really should be a case for concern. Anybody with a key card could enter the stairwell and climb to the roof of the hotel - 5 stars and twelve floors. He can see all of Enbarr from up here. The twinkling of its lights remain unperturbed despite his actions. 

There's a railing about a foot from the edge. Sylvain ducks under it easily, and sits with his legs dangling downward. Nobody will be able to see him from the ground. Just a spec in the darkness looming above their heads.

He uncorks the glass crystal stopper and drinks.

...

Glenn loved chess. He was pretty good at it, too. It was something he and their father used to do together. Felix would sit on his dad’s lap and try to reach for the pieces. By the time he was six, most of the set had baby sized teeth marks engorged into them

Felix never had the patience for it, personally. He never wanted to study moves or games, never wanted to sit quietly and practice it. He preferred to run around, rolling in the dirt and mud with his friends.

It didn’t stop Felix from being enthralled every time he watched his other brother play.

There was a finesse to it. A certain wisdom that Felix could never quite grasp as Glenn carefully moved the pieces. He was better than their father by ten, and was competing in chess competitions by eleven.

Felix went to every one of his games.

Even now, so many years later, Felix can remember the magic of that first game. He was seven, following behind his dad like a little duckling, his hand grasped tightly in Glenn’s. There were plastic tables with chess sets on them lining the hall of the old community centre, but Glenn didn’t care. He was ecstatic to be there. The joy didn’t fade, even after Glenn lost the second to last game.

A year later they were watching TV. There was a chess special on.

That was the first time he saw Sylvain Gautier. 

Ten years old, the boy was already the darling of the chess world. His smiling was dazzling. The interviewer was asking generic questions, what was it like competing against adults, does he see chess in his future, etc etc. The answers came so naturally Felix thought the boy may have been magic.

After that interview, Glenn found every source he could about the boy. He replayed all of Sylvain’s games, tried to puzzle through the choices that were made, and why. Tried to figure out if there was a specific style to his play, something that could be used to trip him up.

In the end, there was nothing.

Two years later, Felix accompanied Glenn to a small competition in Fhirdiahd. Dimitri and Ingrid went along, if only to provide support. Both Ingrid and Dimitri were shaping up to be pretty good chess players themselves, but even working together they still couldn’t hold a candle to Glenn.

The competition was held in a high school gym. Rodrigue dropped them off and said he’d pick them up after.

It was a shock to everybody when Sylvain Gautier showed up to play.

Felix remembered seeing him walk up to the people running check in. Remembered seeing two college age students choke. Sylvain didn’t even smile at them. Didn’t even remove his sunglasses. 

He just said his name like everybody in the building didn’t know who he was, picked up a sheet to track his moves, and went into the gym. 

Even years later, it was probably the most surreal experience of Felix’s life.

Glenn won every game, ascended through the ranks just like Felix knew he would, until he was sitting across from a celebrity of the chess world. 

Sylvain was twelve at the time, but even that seemed so much older to Felix, who was small even for a ten year old.

Glenn smiled and held out his hand. Sylvain shook it, and they played.

As expected, Glenn lost. Dramatically, in fact, but Glenn didn’t mind. He was fifteen, was planning on what to do when he graduated high school in a few years. He enjoyed chess, but he simply didn’t have to love or dedication to play professionally, or the natural born talent. Their dad always said that the best chess players had a mix of both.

Sylvain flashed Glenn a smile, a little different from the one Felix had seen on TV interviews and magazine covers. Suddenly, it hit him. Sylvain had seemed bored in every game he played, but not Glenn’s.

"You're pretty good," he told Glenn when it was all over. 21 moves total - it was savage. “Did you study Loog’s games?” 

Glenn lit up. “I did! I, um, studied your games a lot too. I figured it may be a good counter to your strategy.” He looked over the board, over his dramatic loss. “Guess that didn’t pan out.”

Sylvain just shrugged. “You’re not the first to try it, don’t worry about it.” He checked his phone, typed something, and slipped it back into a pocket with a sigh. “Sorry, I’ve gotta go. Good to meet you Glenn...”

“Fraldarius,” Glenn answered, a little flustered. Felix knew he’d never hear the end of this day.

“Fraldarius,” Sylvain said. He shot Felix a smile too, before heading out of the building.

In the end, Glenn got the prize money - apparently Sylvain insisted. Said Glenn likely would have won, if he hadn't shown up.

Felix was only ten, but he found himself following everything Sylvain did after that.

...

The first time Sylvain played chess, he was five years old. Small and prone to illness, he wasn’t allowed to go outside like other kids his age. Instead Sylvain was kept indoors, where it was safe and controlled. He spent several days a month ill in bed, wrapped in soft blankets as nannies brought him juice and borth. His childhood was marked by books and quiet toys, things he could do without bothering people, or over exerting himself.

One day his tutor, an older gentleman named Mr. Hanneman, took out the chess board in some lesson or another. He said it would be a good way to pass the time. It was quiet, thought provoking, and could be played from a sickbed, as Sylvain so often found himself.

Miklan, seven years older and already pissed at the world, barely paid attention to the rules, but Sylvain was enthralled. The chess pieces were beautiful, they all had rules about how they could move and act - just like him. 

He took up the game with a single minded focus, wanting to know everything about it. He got Mr. Hanneman to bring him books and help him read them. Days which before had passed in a boring feverish haze were instead spent reading chess books, or replaying famous games.

By the time he was six, Sylvain was playing eleven board simultaneous games and winning all of them. He started competing soon afterward.

His parents were thrilled. It was the only time they'd ever bothered paying attention to him. Whenever he won, they’d make time to go out for dinner, or watch a movie with him. His mother read him stories at night. It felt good. So he kept playing, kept hoping they would keep gracing him with small smiles at his wins. Kept chasing the feeling of affection.

Other people, he came to find out, were just like chess pieces too.

In chess, one can estimate an outcome to a specific move. Can anticipate a reaction, and have a response already prepared. People are much the same.

He learned to read situations and people, how to act a specific way to get the outcome he thought would be most desirable. It didn’t always go his way, but like chess, it often did. He learned to smile; dazzle crowds and interviewers. His poor health was a well kept secret.

By eight years old, Sylvain Jose Gautier was a renowned name within the chess world. A prodigy. A future Grandmaster. He was on the cover of almost every chess magazine at least once, and was invited for photo ops with professionals. 

Miklan hated it of course. He tried to play chess, desperately wanting what Sylvain had, but he was never very good. He got even more angry, and when angry, he lashed out. Sylvain was an easy target. 

Sylvain never told his parents, but he knew that they were already aware. There was simply nothing that could be done without impacting the family. So he dealt with it, learned how to sleep to not aggravate bruises, learned to make himself silent, a shadow in his home.

It wasn’t hard, his parents did always like a puppet for a child.