Europe, distant future. A meteorite impacted on the area of Russia, turning the area into a dead zone. Moreover, it emits a strange radiance which increases the impact survivors and their offsprings' endurance and strength, but also causing them to...
"Neoclash Showdown is a sports event only for those who watch it with beers in their hands, betting on the Champions and cheer at every good punch. For us, it's something completely different. It's not merely a sport, it's a matter of honor. We train for months or even years to get here and once we do... everything is personal. Holding this in my hands doesn't mean I'm the strongest. It means I had the biggest willpower to face all the opposition and win. Neoclash isn't about strength. Willpower is the key."
Konstantin (aka. Odin) after winning the title Champion of Champions for the first time
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In my relatively short career, I've fought many Champions in ridiculous costumes, but this guy still kinda stands out. I mean, so far, I haven't seen a Champion wearing a suit with a bowtie, the less with a goddamn top hat. Combine it with shaggy, bright blue hair and mischievous grin.
This is Blackjack, my quarterfinals opponent. We face each other in the arena. His careless smile gives away he has no idea what's going on here. Judging from his behavior during matches, he takes Neoclash as a funny game he is good at.
"Hey, sweetheart, what scared you so much it turned your hair white?" he teases me, but there's nothing malicious about it. It seems he just likes to mock people in a friendly way.
"Your internet search history," I return the mock.
"Good one!" he laughs. "Let's see if you can fight just as good!"
"My pleasure."
Our arena is called "Birdcatcher". In short, small holograms which look like shiny golden birds appear randomly in the arena. The Champion who "catches" one of them earns a Clash point. I've fought in this arena before and I have to say I'm pretty good at catching them.
Arena configuration complete. INF system active. Champions on their spots. Ten seconds for preparation remaining.
Get ready. Begin.
I hear multiple bird chirping - this sound can be also used to locate the birds. One is fairly close to me, but I also have to watch for the opponent.
"Let's get the party started," Blackjack smirks and points his fist at me. Even though he's still several meters away from me, I stay cautious - I know what can his prosthetic arm do. A moment later, I hear a sharp hissing sound as the fist disconnects from the artificial forearm and flies towards me.
This is his main weapon - a fist that works like a missile. It's a rather expensive proth from the SoulRaven company which is known for various models bordering with rules. I've heard controlling it and learning how to handle it isn't easy at all, but it seems Blackjack mastered this technique to the fullest.
I observe the missile fist getting closer and I get ready to evade, but, to my surprise, the fist misses me by half a meter. Why was he so inaccurate?
