While Ethan was locked out of his own virtual paradise, Leo was thriving in his. He lay in his pod, the world of Orion FC materializing around him.
He appeared in his manager's office—a sleek, minimalist space decorated in his club's black and gold colors.
But there was one, glaring, infuriating detail that ruined the entire aesthetic.
His avatar, his cool, idealized self, was wearing a bright, royal blue Apex United tracksuit.
"I hate this thing," he muttered, tugging at the sleeve of the tracksuit.
It felt like wearing the enemy's flag.
The 30-day penalty for losing the derby was a constant, humiliating reminder of Matias Gallardo's tragicomic own goal.
He pushed the thought aside and focused on the main screen.
The League Two table was displayed in all its glory.
And sitting proudly at the very top, with a perfect record of five wins from five games, was Orion FC.
A wide, satisfied grin spread across his face. His fortress was impregnable.
