Phoenix Rising: From Heartache to Heroism
Chapter 109 The Chess Competition 1

Zelena meticulously examined Violeta's details multiple times on the computer, sensing her own shortcomings in comparison. In this second life, she was resolute in her ambition to outshine her in every

regard.

Chess wasn't Violeta's strong suit, giving Zelena a distinct advantage.

Hattie scoffed, "She's stretching herself thin. Attempting to win Mr. Howell's favour by joining the competition, she's setting herself up for humiliation. Let's witness her stumble on stage!"

Zelena expressed a hint of optimism, "Perhaps she might stumble upon a stroke of luck and emerge victorious?"

Hattie derided, "Luck? Do you believe she's a reincarnated lucky charm?"

Zelena couldn't confirm.

In the depths of her heart, she couldn't help but recall Violeta's stunning performance at the Moon Festival, a memory that still filled her with unease.

She couldn't shake the feeling that this lifetime was different from the past, that Violeta was no longer the same person she once was.

And so, to ensure her plan went off without a hitch this time, she had made some extra special preparations.

"Hattie, I'll go to the restroom first," Zelena said.

"Sure."

Zelena got up and left, heading to the backstage area where the water was. From her bag, she took out a packet of laxatives, a wicked glint flashing in her eyes.

Though she knew Violeta wouldn't play chess, she decided it was best to prevent any unexpected surprises. So, to ensure Violeta wouldn't take the stage at all, she took matters into her own hands. Each table in the chess hall had a designated teapot with a specific number.

She found the teapot corresponding to Violeta's table number, discreetly sprinkled the laxatives inside while no one was looking, and then gave the tea a gentle shake.

After making sure no one had noticed, she quickly left the backstage area.

It wasn't long before Zelena returned. Hattie looked puzzled and asked, "You're back so soon. Didn't you go to the restroom?"

Zelena replied, "I just washed my hands."

Hattie didn't probe any further. She cast a quick glance at Benson, who sat beside her, a touch of worry visible in her expression. "Benson, have you remembered to take your medicine today?" Benson, who had remained silent throughout, appeared fatigued.

Zelena observed him and asked, "Hattie, is Benson unwell?"

Hattie was furious. "It's the teachers at school. They're always picking on him. Benson can't cope with it."

It wasn't easy for anyone to endure such intense physical punishment. The fact that Benson could persist was already quite remarkable.

Hattie was aware that Liam's group targeted Benson at school.

However, despite knowing the truth, Hattie couldn't speak out on his behalf or cause a commotion.

Their opportunity to study at Toland University had been hard-won by Hannah, who had secured the same resources for them as Liam. The price for this privilege was that they couldn't easily return to Quinstor in the future.

If they couldn't persevere, it would waste all of Hannah's efforts and careful planning.

Benson cleared his throat and said, "I'm alright, just need some water."

Hattie, worried, stood up from the couch. "I'll get it for you."

With that, she headed backstage.

She came back soon with a glass of water for Benson.

Zelena played on her phone as she waited for the upcoming chess competition.

After a while, Nolan walked in through the front door.

As the competition was about to begin, Nolan wanted to check if Violeta had finished registering, but he spotted Zelena and her two friends straight ahead.

Zelena smiled as she greeted Nolan, "Nolan, it's a surprise to see you here."

Nolan was startled to see Zelena and the others, as he couldn't imagine her taking part in the chess competition.

"Are you here for the competition?"

"Yes, Nolan. Are you competing too?" Zelena sought to impress Nolan. "I've been delving into chess for quite some time, and I'm here today to put my skills to the test. I aim to secure a respectable ranking!" Nolan, not one for idle chatter, responded, "Okay, best of luck to you. I'll go over there first."

With that, he promptly made his way toward Violeta without any hesitation.

Zelena paused, appearing somewhat perplexed as she observed his departure.

Hattie folded her arms, unable to resist a sarcastic comment, "Looks like Violeta has some hidden talents. I wonder when she won Nolan over. Perhaps they're both in the same club, and familiarity breeds fondness?"

These words deeply impacted Zelena.

She tightened her fists. "Absolutely not, Nolan wouldn't be attracted to Violeta."

Hattie gave Zelena's shoulder a reassuring pat. "You never can tell if Nolan is into Violeta or not, but it's clear to me that you have feelings for him."

Zelena remained silent.

It became apparent to everyone that Zelena held affection for Nolan.

Nevertheless, Nolan remained unaffected.

After all, there were plenty of people at school who had a crush on Nolan.

...

Nolan made his way over to the couch where Violeta was sitting.

"Have you registered?"

Violeta, leaning against the back of the sofa and gazing at her phone, glanced up at him upon hearing Nolan's voice and responded quietly, "Done."

Nolan seated himself on the couch and poured a glass of water from the teapot positioned before him.

Violeta cast a glance at the cluster of individuals in the hall, all presumably participants who had enlisted for the competition.