Chapter 1685: Chapter 1502: Relaxation Time End

Chapter 1685: Chapter 1502: Relaxation Time End



Their playful banter filled the arcade, the rhythmic thump of the dance game adding a fresh beat to their laughter. Stepping away from the spacefaring exploits, Maria and Luna set their sights on a vibrant dance game cabinet.

The holographic platform glowed invitingly, displaying a series of colorful arrows scrolling across the screen. Upbeat music pulsed through the speakers, a catchy blend of electronica and pop that instantly brought a smile to Luna's face.

"Dance battle, Alexia?" Luna challenged, a mischievous glint in her eyes.

"Let's see if your strategic mind translates to fancy footwork."

Maria, despite her usual icy demeanor, couldn't help but grin.

"Don't underestimate the power of coordination, Lû," she countered. "Just because you have rhythm doesn't mean you have the reflexes."

With playful jabs, they selected their avatars, Luna opting for a sleek, cybernetic warrior with flowing neon hair, while Maria chose a more traditional ice-themed sorceress, her movements promising a graceful lethality.

The first round began, the arrows flashing across the screen in a dizzying sequence. Luna, a natural dancer, moved with effortless grace, her avatar mirroring her movements with perfect precision. Maria calmly approached the challenge with calculated steps, her focus sharp despite the increasing complexity of the patterns.

Laughter filled the air as they stumbled and recovered, their competitive spirit fueling their movements. Maria surprised herself with a newfound fluidity, her icy persona momentarily melting away as she channeled her focus into the game. Luna, in turn, reveled in the pure joy of movement, her body swaying to the rhythm with an infectious energy.

Round after round they battled, the difficulty escalating with each passing level. Maria, with her honed reflexes, managed to keep pace with Luna's natural grace. But as the final round dawned, the screen erupted in a flurry of arrows, a near-impossible sequence demanding lightning-fast reflexes and impeccable timing.

Luna, fueled by the adrenaline of the competition, moved with a blur of focused energy. Her avatar danced across the holographic platform, a flawless execution of every step. Maria, despite her valiant effort, stumbled a few times, the complex pattern pushing her beyond her limits.

The final note echoed through the arcade, and the winner's screen flashed with holographic fireworks. Luna's avatar struck a triumphant pose, a victory message emblazoned across the

screen.

Maria, despite the sting of defeat, couldn't help but laugh, a genuine smile warming her features.

"Alright, Lû," she conceded, raising her hands in mock surrender.

"You win this round. You truly own the dance floor."

"But remember, Alexia, even magic can't guarantee victory without a skilled throw."

A hush fell over the lane as Maria and Luna stepped up, the air thick with playful tension. The warriors on the adjacent lane paused their game, their eyes drawn to the spectacle. Maria with a focused gaze took a deep breath, visualizing the perfect trajectory.

She gripped the frosty bowling ball, the coolness seeping into her palm. With a practiced swing and a satisfying release, the ball sailed down the lane, leaving a faint trail of shimmering ice dust in its wake. It arced across the polished wood, the magical energy guiding its path. Pins erupted into a satisfying clatter as the ball connected with a resounding crack. A cheer erupted from the nearby lane, followed by a playful groan from Luna.

The night unfolded into a series of close calls and unexpected strikes. Luna, fueled by a desire to redeem herself, unleashed throws of surprising power, her fiery light ball leaving a trail of scorched pins in its wake. Maria, in turn, relied on a combination of strategy and magic- infused throws, her icy spells ensuring maximum pin annihilation.

Each frame was a battle of skill and wit.

Laughter filled the air.

As the final frame arrived, the score was neck and neck. The tension was palpable, the air thick with anticipation. Maria, determined to claim victory, closed her eyes, picturing the perfect trajectory. With a deep breath, she unleashed the final throw, the frosty ball hurtling down the lane with an almost ethereal grace.

A moment of silence followed, then the pins erupted in a glorious symphony of clatter. All ten pins fell with a satisfying thud, sending a wave of cheers through the bowling alley.

The holographic display board flashed, displaying Maria's name and regal ice phoenix avatar

in triumphant glory.

Luna, despite the sting of defeat, couldn't help but grin.

"Well played, dear Queen," she conceded, offering a high five.

"You truly are a master of both magic and the bowling alley."

Maria chuckled, accepting the high five with a playful nod.

"Don't worry, Luna," she teased.

"There's always next time. Besides, a little friendly competition never hurt anyone."

With their competitive spirit sated and their spirits rejuvenated, they decided to call it a night. Leaving the warm glow of the bowling alley behind, Maria and Luna stepped out into the cool night air, a comfortable silence settling between them.