Chapter Four: I Do Not Consent

The countdown became a private eclipse hanging over the city. “We forfeit,” Wei Lan said. “That costs six points and our playoff eligibility,” Qiao Ran replied. “Then everyone goes home.” “If you can’t remember your sister, is the life you save still yours?” Jianxia asked. Qiao Ran’s expression hardened. “If a building is burning with six people inside, do you refuse to enter because the price is personal?” “We find extinguishers together. We don’t let you go in alone.” For the next two days, Jianxia trained them not to win. They slowed down while leading, added one pass before easy shots, and practiced striking penalties against the post. The absurdity brought their laughter back.