"No need," Sophien said, shaking her head and placing her finger on the corner of the Go board.0

The large wooden board served as a stage, its nineteen horizontal and vertical lines forming three hundred sixty-one points of intersection. This game both sparked Sophien’s lethargic interest, awakened her competitive spirit, and acted as a mentor.0

“As for a game such as Go, that will be a matter for another time.”0

However, Sophien knew that reality was not a game of Go, but something right before her eyes, and she did not want to miss it by focusing solely on a mere wooden board.0

“… Is that so?” Deculein replied.0

Then, Deculein offered a regretful smile and casually spoke his words.0

"I had planned to demonstrate a difference in station that is insurmountable, Your Majesty."0

"I am going easy on you, for if I win against you, there will be no more reason to play the game of Go," Sophien said, glaring at Deculein.0

“Is that so?”0

“That is so.”0

A challenger found it easy to be passionate, for there was always a goal to overcome and an opponent who would consistently best them.0

However, one who had reached the pinnacle of their craft lost enthusiasm and always lived a dry and joyless life, until they eventually became lethargic, as Sophien did.0

"The one at the pinnacle is always the dullest," Sophien said, taking a step closer to Deculein, her hand moving as she looked up at his neat attire.0

Rustle—0

Sophien loosened Deculein's tie and flipped up one side of his collar.4

Deculein’s expression flin...0