Chapter 12: The Aftershock of Defeat
Ren sat in the pit area, staring at the results flashing on the screen.
1st Place: Mikazuki Raiden
2nd Place: Ren Kisaragi
His fingers tightened into fists.
Not from frustration—but hunger.
He had seen it now.
The gap between him and the best.
And he knew he could close it.
The Midnight Tempest race broke the internet.
Social media exploded.
[WHO IS REN KISARAGI?!!]
[A Rookie Almost Took Down the Storm Emperor?!]
[Storm Emperor Speaks: "He's Interesting."]
The major racing academies, sponsors, and elite racers took notice.
Some called it a fluke.
Others?
They saw potential.
And one person in particular had been waiting for a chance like this.
Ren was about to leave when a black envelope landed in his lap.
He looked up.
A woman in a sleek racing suit and sunglasses stood in front of him.
Her presence was sharp.
Commanding.
She removed her glasses, revealing piercing violet eyes.
"Ren Kisaragi."
Her voice was cool, professional.
Ren narrowed his eyes. "Who are you?"
She handed him a card.
Arclight Racing Division
—Elena Varessi
Ren's breath hitched.
Arclight.
One of the top racing organizations in the world.
Elena crossed her arms. "You have potential."
"We want to sponsor you."
The words hung in the air.
Ren's mind raced.
A sponsorship?
This was an opportunity.
But something felt off.
"Why me?"** he asked.**
Elena smirked.
"Because you lost."
Ren raised an eyebrow.
She continued.
"You're talented. But more importantly—you know what it's like to lose."
She leaned forward, eyes gleaming.
"And I want to see how badly you want to win."
Silence.
Ren exhaled.
Then—he smirked.
"Alright. Let's talk."