468 Avoiding suspicions

In a sea of cheers, some of which he understood and others he didn't, Lou Cheng returned from his dazed state to accept the reality of his defeat as he heaved a sigh of relief and began to relax his sore arms.

He should have been happy. Proud even. Veigar had been at the quasi-Inhuman stage for more than a year, and coming close to defeating him twice was no easy feat. He had earned the right to walk off with his chest out.

Yet, he could not feel a hint of happiness within himself. Instead, there was only disappointment and regret.

He was so close, victory was just a step away...

My strategy, predictions, and actual performance were all on point. Outstanding in fact. Yet I was a step away from seizing the winning opportunity...