The match ended.The crowd dissolved into quiet claps, muted congratulations, and unspoken stares.
Raj didn't bask in the moment.He didn't pump his fist or shout to the sky.He just walked with helmet under one arm, bat dragging loosely at his side toward the tent where his bag waited.
His mind was quieter than ever.Not because there was nothing left to prove.But because, for once, proving things no longer mattered.
[System Status: Post-Event Stabilization Active]
Emotional Stability: 94%
Heart Rate: Normal
Passive Boost Extended: Silent Confidence
Inside the tent, Priya met him first.She didn't say a word.She just held out a towel and a bottle of water.He took them with a grateful nod.
Spandana leaned quietly against the tent pole, sketchbook hugged close to her chest.
Their presence said enough.
As Raj sat on the bench, unlacing his pads, a man in a Ghostline staff uniform approached.
Not a scout.Not a coach.
Just a simple coordinator holding a clipboard.
"RajCraft?"
