A few days later, Qin Zhen received an invitation to meet with one of the most prestigious teams in the Glory league: Excellent Era. The team had a storied history, and their offer was a dream come true for any aspiring player. It was the opportunity he had been waiting for, yet the weight of the decision still hung heavily over him.
The meeting was scheduled at a high-end café, where Qin Zhen found himself sitting across from the team's manager, a seasoned veteran of the Glory scene. The manager spoke at length about the team's history, their goals, and how they saw Qin Zhen fitting into their roster.
As the conversation continued, Qin Zhen's mind drifted to the words of Ye Xiu and WindChaser. They had both emphasized the importance of staying true to himself, of never losing sight of why he played Glory. It was advice he couldn't ignore.
The manager's voice pulled him back to the present.
"We believe you have the potential to become one of the top players in the league," the manager said, his tone serious. "Joining Excellent Era would give you the resources and support you need to reach that level. But it's a commitment, Qin Zhen. We expect nothing less than full dedication from our players."
Qin Zhen nodded slowly, understanding the gravity of the decision. This was the opportunity of a lifetime, but it also came with expectations that would change his life.
"I appreciate the offer," Qin Zhen replied, choosing his words carefully. "But I need to make sure that I'm ready for this step. Glory has always been about more than just winning for me—it's about the love of the game, the challenges, and the journey. I don't want to lose sight of that."
The manager studied him for a moment before nodding in understanding.
"I respect that," the manager said. "Take the time you need to make your decision. Just know that this offer won't last forever. We need players who are committed, who are ready to give everything they have to the team."
Qin Zhen left the meeting with a heavy heart, the weight of the decision pressing down on him. He had always dreamed of joining a top-tier team, of competing on the highest stage, but the reality of it was more daunting than he had anticipated.
He returned to the Happy Internet Café, seeking the familiar comfort of the place where his journey had begun. As he logged into the game, he was greeted by Chen Guo, who noticed the troubled expression on his face.
"Rough day?" she asked, handing him a cup of coffee.
"You could say that," Qin Zhen replied with a sigh. "I met with Excellent Era today. They offered me a spot on the team."
Chen Guo's eyes widened in surprise. "That's huge! But you don't seem too thrilled about it."
"I am… but I'm also not sure if I'm ready," Qin Zhen admitted. "Joining a professional team is a big commitment, and I'm worried about losing sight of why I started playing in the first place."
Chen Guo nodded thoughtfully. "It's a tough decision, no doubt. But if anyone can handle it, it's you. Just remember that no matter what you choose, you have to do what feels right for you. Don't let the pressure of the moment cloud your judgment."
Qin Zhen smiled, appreciating her words of wisdom. "Thanks, Chen Guo. I just need some time to think."