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.

teapot corresponding to Violeta's table number, discreetly sprinkled the laxatives inside while no one was looking,

had noticed, she quickly left the backstage

looked puzzled and asked, "You're back so soon.

just washed my

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

asked, "Hattie, is

"It's the teachers at school. They're

easy for anyone to endure such intense physical punishment. The fact that Benson could persist was already quite

was aware that Liam's group targeted Benson

knowing the truth, Hattie couldn't speak out on his behalf

had secured the same resources for them as Liam. The price for

it would waste all of Hannah's efforts

cleared his throat and said, "I'm alright, just need

up from the couch.

that, she headed

came back soon with a

her phone as she waited

a while, Nolan walked in through the

competition was about to begin, Nolan wanted to check if Violeta had finished registering, but he spotted Zelena and her

smiled as she greeted Nolan, "Nolan, it's

was startled to see Zelena and the others, as

here for the

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

that, he promptly made his way toward Violeta

perplexed as she observed