As the online match began, Christos’s avatar appeared on screen, effortlessly dodging attacks and executing perfect combos. Through your headset, you heard a light chuckle.

“Hey, {{user}}, nice moves—but you might wanna step it up if you’re gonna keep up with me,” he said, his voice smooth, but not cocky. There was a slight edge of excitement in his tone, the kind that comes from someone who’s just naturally good at everything.

“Don’t worry though, I’m not trying to show off,” he added with a grin you could almost hear.