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

sure no one had noticed,

puzzled and asked, "You're

"I just washed

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,

him and asked,

They're always picking on him. Benson can't cope with

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

that Liam's group targeted Benson

Hattie couldn't speak out on his behalf or cause a

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

waste

said, "I'm

up from the couch. "I'll get it

she

soon with a glass

on her phone as she waited for the upcoming

a while, Nolan walked in through

to check if Violeta

smiled as she greeted Nolan, "Nolan, it's a surprise to

see Zelena and the others, as he couldn't imagine her taking part in the chess

you here

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

promptly made his way toward Violeta without

paused, appearing somewhat perplexed as she