CHAPTER IV – THE WORLD CHAMPION
[The Fisher Family Mansion]
The morning sun streamed through the large windows of Adam Fisher's room, casting a soft glow over the disorder that filled the space. Scattered clothes, empty energy drink cans on the floor, and a pile of electronic devices next to the bed revealed the chaotic routine of the young chess genius. In the center of the room, he lay on his bed, immersed in a parallel reality provided by his augmented virtual reality glasses, lost in yet another game.
The bedroom door opened with a calculated and precise movement. Vander Volkov, the long-serving butler of the "Fisher Family," entered without the slightest hurry, but with the determination of someone who already knew how this day would begin.
Vander: Mister Fisher, it is past time for your fencing training. I recommend that you take a bath immediately, so the maid can come in and clean up this... chaos.
Adam sighed deeply, sinking further into the bed.
Adam: Ahhh, what a drag, Vander. I just want to relax...
Vander: Unfortunately, sir, I cannot allow you to continue in this state. Your fencing lesson begins in exactly twenty minutes. After that, you have a meeting with the members of the "Order" to discuss this year's “International Championship”. As you know, you will be mentoring the new prodigies.
Fisher took off the glasses and tossed them aside, massaging the faint dark circles under his eyes.
Adam: The International Championship, the World Championship, do you think I should participate this year?
Vander regarded him for a moment before responding with his usual elegance.
Vander: That is a question only you can answer, sir.
Adam ran a hand through his messy black hair, letting out a tired laugh.
Adam: I'm so tired of winning, Vander. Chess has lost its appeal without a worthy opponent for me. I've held this title for years and, honestly, I don't see any point in competing anymore. Is there really anyone who can play on the same level as me? I'm not referring to you. But, someone else...
Vander approached, picking up a few objects scattered around the room before answering.
Vander: With an 18,000+ Elo rating, few even dare to dream of reaching you. But that is precisely why you dedicate yourself to teaching. The idea is that, one day, one of your apprentices might reach your level or surpass it.
He took a calculated pause before adding:
Vander: But perhaps I have something that might pique your interest.
He picked up his digital notepad and searched for "Kaoru Shimizu".
Adam raised an eyebrow, slightly curious. Vander continued:
Vander: Japan recently registered a new "prodigy" named "Kaoru Shimizu". According to the files, he was the youngest to ever enter or at least test for the OME at only two years of age. However, he went a long period without competing, and recently returned in the Regional Championship, which he won without difficulty, despite his rating being significantly lower than his opponents'.
Fisher's eyes finally lit up with a genuine spark of interest. It had been years since Japan, or the world itself, had produced a "Prodigy".
Adam: Two years old? Impressive. What's his rating currently?
Vander: According to OME records, he is currently at 2800 rating.
Adam: Interesting. Although, it will take him a few years to reach my level. But...
Adam: Vander! When he reaches 10,000+ Elo, let me know!
Vander smiled subtly, well acquainted with that competitive spark that had just ignited in his young master.
Vander: As you wish, sir.
Adam stood up, stretching lazily while looking towards the door.
Adam: Let's get going to that boring fencing lesson...
Vander: You still need to take a bath first, sir. — Vander adjusted his glasses, a playful glint in his eyes.
Adam laughed, surrendering.
Adam: You got me this time, Vander.
And with that, Adam entered the bathroom, while Vander sighed, analyzing the statistics that outlined the profile of "Kaoru Shimizu".
[Fade out: Japan – Tokyo]
Hoshikawa Orphanage
The bus carrying Kaoru stopped near the Orphanage. Kaoru stepped down onto the damp sidewalk, the Tokyo air thick with the smell of rain and asphalt. He looked across the street — before he could even think about crossing, a shrill cry cut through the traffic noise. "KAORU-NII!" – Mia (eight years old), ran quickly to the gate, and in an instant, small, disorderly groups of children ran towards him.
Kaoru let a small smile escape as he dropped his backpack – heavy with dirty clothes and the small wrapped trophy – and braced himself for impact. He was surrounded, hugged by legs, hands pulling at his shirt. The noise was deafening, the questions fired off rapidly, but the warmth was genuine. It was his noisy and disheveled welcoming committee.
— Kaoru! You won! We knew you would! — shouted "Aito", holding a crumpled newspaper with his photo on the cover.
Suyuri was among them, her eyes welling up. As he approached, she put her hands to her face, trying to hold back tears, but without success.
Suyuri: You did it... — she whispered, letting the tears fall as she smiled.
Kaoru laughed lightly, scratching the back of his neck, a little awkward in the face of so much euphoria.
The children shouted with happiness and pulled him inside, where a small, improvised banquet had been set up. Simple sweets and food were arranged on the table, clearly prepared with care. Kaoru felt warmth in his chest. This place was his home.
After the celebration, Kaoru went up to his room. The space was simple but cozy. He dropped his backpack in the corner and threw himself onto the bed, letting out a long sigh. The white ceiling seemed to dance in his tired vision, but before he could get lost in thought, there was a knock on the door.
— Come in — he said, without moving.
Suyuri entered slowly, closing the door behind her. Her eyes were still a little red, but she tried to smile.
He sat up, resting his elbows on his knees.
She sighed, hugging herself.
Suyuri: You brought so much pride to all of us, Kaoru. The children are so happy...
Kaoru: But you're worried about something, aren't you?
Suyuri: Those men came back. The ones who want to demolish the orphanage. — Her voice trembled. — But this time, they weren't friendly at all. They made many threats and said they talked to the Authorities and the Government about a deal to tear down this orphanage (crying).
They convinced the authorities to conduct an inspection in 90 days to assess if we can stay here... They know everything.
"They know about the cracks," Suyuri continued, her voice gaining a harsh edge of contained anger. "They know about the electrical system that needed replacing ten years ago. They know about the roof. They know we can't possibly fix all of this in three months." She finally broke down in tears. "It's an impossible deadline. It's an eviction notice disguised as bureaucracy."
Kaoru clenched his fists.
Kaoru: They can't just take our home away. We will pass that inspection. I promise, Suyuri-chan.
She looked at him, hesitant.
Suyuri: But... Kaoru! The National Championship is coming up. You need to prepare. And school? How will you help if you're not here?
He took her hands firmly.
Kaoru: You all always took care of me. Now it's my turn to take care of you.
Suyuri closed her eyes, letting out a sob. After a moment, she smiled.
Suyuri: Thank you, Kaoru.
She quickly wiped her tears and turned to leave. Before closing the door, she looked at him one last time.
Suyuri: Rest well, our Champion. Tomorrow is a new day.
When she left, Kaoru leaned back on the bed and let out a deep sigh. His gaze wandered to the ceiling, but then he remembered what Suyuri had told him. The National Championship... School... He closed his eyes for a moment, trying to remember if he had anything pending... And then, like a snap, he remembered: School! The assignment! Hanna!
He sat up, picked up his phone, and checked the last registered number: Hanna Kobayashi.
[calling Hanna...]
The ringing tone echoed in the silence of the room.
— Hello? — Hanna's voice sounded half-asleep.
Kaoru hesitated for a moment before responding.
Kaoru: Hanna, it's me, Kaoru.
A moment of silence. Then, a sleepy voice on the other end of the line.
Hanna: Kaoru?
Kaoru: Yeah, Kaoru Shimizu, from school, remember?
Hanna: Ah, yes, Kaoru. What's up? Why are you calling so late?
Kaoru: Ah... — He looked at the time on his phone and saw it was already past eleven. — Sorry, I lost track of time. I remembered the school assignment... And decided to call you.
Hanna sighed again, tiredly.
Hanna: Yes, the assignment!
Hanna: How are we going to do this? We only have two more days, and we can't use any artificial intelligence to help us.
Kaoru sat on the bed, scratching his head.
Kaoru: Yeah, maybe we could meet up tomorrow? To sort this out.
Hanna: Tomorrow... — She thought for a moment. — Could work...
Hanna: Can I come over to your place, where you live?
Kaoru: I think it's better if I come to yours. Fewer distractions over here...
Hanna chuckled lightly.
Hanna: Okay, no problem. I'll send you my QRAddress via message.
Kaoru: Okay, what time more or less?
Hanna: Hmm, maybe ten?
Kaoru: Okay, I'll be there. Oh, I just received the QRAddress.
Hanna: (smiling) Great, if you get lost... call me.
Hanna: Oh, yeah, I almost forgot. Congratulations on your victory in the Regional Championship, I saw it on TV, I didn't know you were such a great Chess Player.
Kaoru, embarrassed, scratching the back of his neck.
Kaoru: (smiling) Th-thank you very much, Hanna.
Hanna yawned with a sleepy voice.
This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.
Hanna: (yawning) I'm really tired, Kaoru. I'm going to sleep, see you tomorrow. Good night, Kaoru.
Kaoru smiled slightly.
Kaoru: Good night, Hanna. Bye!
— Bye! Kaoru.
[Call ended]
Kaoru put the phone aside and lay down, staring at the ceiling. Various thoughts ran through his head, and gradually, his mind began to replay the matches from the Regional Championship like an invisible chessboard projected onto the ceiling. He reviewed each of his moves, analyzing where he could have been more efficient. What mistake had he made, but... he didn't see any.
"The National Championship... The Orphanage," he thought.
And then, he closed his eyes, the pieces still dancing before him.
And with these thoughts, he fell asleep.
[The next day]
The sun had barely risen when Kaoru finished getting ready. He put on simple, comfortable clothes, threw his backpack over his shoulders, and left the room. Descending the stairs, he found Suyuri in the kitchen, preparing breakfast for the children. She smiled when she saw him.
Suyuri: Leaving so early? — she asked, turning to him with a cup of tea in her hands.
Kaoru: Yeah, I'm going to a classmate's house to do a school assignment. I should be back later.
Suyuri raised an eyebrow, surprised.
Suyuri: School assignment?
Kaoru: Yeah, with Hanna Kobayashi, a classmate.
Suyuri: (smiling) Okay. Study well.
— Kaoru! She exclaimed, grabbing a wrapped bun to hand him.
Suyuri: Take this. You always forget to eat when you're focused.
Kaoru took the snack and, before leaving, leaned down and gave Suyuri a gentle kiss on the forehead.
Kaoru: Thanks, Suyuri-chan. Don't worry, I'll be back soon.
He left the orphanage and headed down the busy sidewalk. He put on his headphones and turned up the music volume, letting the rhythm carry him as he walked towards the nearest subway station. The cool morning breeze hit his face, bringing a rare moment of tranquility.
However, as he approached the station, he noticed something strange. Several stares... People stopping mid-path, whispering among themselves, murmuring as they saw him pass.
— Isn't that the kid who won the Regional Championship? — murmured a man to his wife.
— He walks around so calmly, as if nothing has changed... — said another, frowning.
— These "Prodigies" dominate the world... — grumbled a young man in a black hoodie. — What's left for the rest of us, "Common People"?
Kaoru tried to ignore the stares, but couldn't help it, until he took off his headphones, and then heard a conversation between a mother and her young son, looking at him.
— Okaasan (Mommy), one day will I be a great player like that one on television?
The woman smiled, ruffling her son's hair affectionately.
— Of course, my love. You'll be the best in the world.
Kaoru knew better than anyone the meaning of those stares; it was "common" for him. So, he took a deep breath, quickened his pace, and continued walking. The day was just beginning.
[fade explaining the world of CHECK-MATE]
In the world of CHECK-MATE, society is rigidly divided into four classes, based on their aptitude for chess — the game that governs all spheres of life. From economy to politics, from social status to career opportunities, everything revolves around the ability to manipulate pieces on a board.
1) Common People
These are those born without any talent or affinity for chess, incapable of surpassing a 1200+ Elo rating, even with intense training. These people form the majority of the population and, because they do not possess the so-called "mana" — the mysterious essence that defines chess talent – they are excluded from the highest positions in society. Despite developing talents in other areas, they suffer from precarious jobs and live in the shadow of the great players.
This social abyss generated resentment. Hatred towards the "Prodigies" grew over time, and extremist groups began to hunt down and assassinate exceptional players. To contain this chaos, the UN and the world's most influential countries united to create the OME (World Chess Organization), in order to guarantee equal rights for "Prodigies" and protect them from societal reprisals. However, the current leadership of the OME belongs to a politician who has never even played a game in his life — a member of the "Common People". What will be the future for chess players?
2) Average People
Unlike the "Common People", these individuals possess a reasonable amount of "mana", allowing them to reach a rating between 2200 and 3000 Elo with adequate training. They can even participate in national competitions and gain prestige, but they will never reach the superhuman levels of the “Prodigies".
Many use their talent to secure status and financial comfort, becoming celebrities or public figures. However, despite being good players, they are rarely accepted into the OME, as the admission tests are so rigorous that only a true prodigy can pass. Despite this, they live well and do not suffer discrimination, as they are seen as respectable citizens within the social hierarchy.
3) Prodigies
The true masters of the game. Since childhood, they demonstrate inhuman abilities to see patterns, predict moves, and solve complex problems without any effort. They possess an immeasurable amount of “mana". Without formal training, they can already defeat experienced players. The OME tracks them down and recruits them immediately at the slightest sign of their talent.
Prodigies do not play for status or fame. For them, chess is an instinct, a natural calling. However, due to the backlash from the “Common People", many "Prodigies” have disappeared from the map. Currently, there are fewer than 300 in the entire world - still constant targets of envy and hatred. Many prefer to live in seclusion, others prefer not even to show their abilities and live as “Commons". Some are protected by the OME, which guarantees them security and a source of income so they can dedicate themselves exclusively to the game.
Prodigies are considered a nation's greatest wealth, as a powerful chess player can influence diplomatic negotiations, control financial markets, and even decide silent wars between countries. Each nation protects its prodigies as national treasures.
Currently, the countries with the most prodigies worldwide are:
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United States – 121 prodigies, including the current "World Champion".
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Russia - 104 prodigies, with an "ex-International Champion".
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Other countries have varying numbers, but Japan, for example, has only 14 prodigies and none with "World" or "International" classification.
The title of International Champion is contested between two "World Champions" (the current and the previous one). However, for years, no one has managed to reach this level, as a "World Champion" has a rating above 15,000 Elo — a number so high it defies human logic.
4) Mixed
These are the so-called "Rare Cases". Some children are born with "unstable mana", showing no apparent talent for chess. They live like "common people", but under certain conditions – usually linked to intense emotions – they can temporarily awaken exceptional abilities.
These people sometimes see brilliant moves one moment and, the next, can barely remember how a bishop moves. Because of this instability, few reach high ratings. Currently, the OME has only 5 members of the "mixed" class, representing minimal inclusion within the world chess elite.
Global Structure of the OME
Each country is responsible for its own "Order” within the OME. These "Orders” are named after chess pieces, reflecting the strength and prestige of each nation:
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Order White King (USA) – United States of America (largest number of prodigies and the World Champion)
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Order Black King (RUS) – Russia (historical power with ex-International Champions).
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Order White Horse (UK) – United Kingdom (famous for its unpredictable moves).
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Order White Bishop (GER) – Germany (Focused on long-term strategies).
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Order White Lady (JPN) – Japan (with few prodigies, but a history of unpredictable evolution)
There are other Orders around the globe, each representing a country or economic bloc, with their playing styles and philosophies. The balance between these "Orders" defines global chess politics, influencing everything from tournaments to economic and political disputes.
The question that arises is: what will happen to the future of the OME under the command of someone who has never held a chess piece?
[fade out: Kaoru arriving at Hanna's house]
Ding Dong! Kaoru rang the doorbell.
Ding Dong!
Hanna's Mother "Naomi Kobayashi": Honey, someone's at the door. Can you get it? I'm busy cooking.
Hanna: Okay, Mom, I'm going!
[Hanna comes down the stairs]
Ding Dong!
Hanna: Coming!
[She opens the door and smiles upon seeing Kaoru]
Hanna: Hi, Kaoru. Come in!
Kaoru: Hi... thanks.
Kaoru enters, observing the surroundings. It was a modest but spacious and welcoming house, with a pleasant aroma coming from the kitchen. He had never been inside a girl's house before.
Hanna's mother emerges into the living room, wiping her hands on her apron.
Hanna's Mother: Hello! You're Kaoru, right? Welcome! I'm “Naomi Kobayashi," Hanna's mother.
Kaoru: Thank you, ma'am. It's a pleasure to meet you.
Hanna's Mother: Make yourself comfortable, son. I'll leave you two alone so you can study.
She smiles and returns to the kitchen, leaving the two in the living room.
Hanna: So Kaoru... Want anything? Water, juice?
Kaoru: No, I'm fine, thanks Hanna.
Kaoru: Your mother is very nice.
Hanna: Yes, she's a real sweetheart.
Hanna: Well... shall we start?
Kaoru: Hm... Yes... What was the topic again?
Hanna: (laughing) You're funny. "The evolution of computers."
Kaoru: Ah, right. Do you have a computer around here?
Hanna: Sure! I'll go get the laptop.
[Hanna goes upstairs quickly and returns with the laptop]
Hanna: Here it is! Let's start.
[The two begin to work. As they research, they exchange comments and laughter, making the work lighter and more fun. Kaoru is surprised to realize that talking with Hanna is easier than he imagined.]
Hanna: Wow, it's already 5 PM!
Kaoru: I didn't even notice the time pass... I think I'll head out now. Send me the assignment later?
Hanna: Sure, but wait. I'll walk with you, before you get lost on the way.
[She calls for her mother before leaving.]
Hanna: Moom, I'm going to walk Kaoru out! He's leaving now.
Hanna's mother comes to the living room, says goodbye to Kaoru, and tells Hanna not to be long.
[The two leave together, walking side by side under the sunset-tinged sky. The strong wind rustles Hanna's dress, and she laughs trying to hold it down.]
Hanna: (laughing) This wind is playing with me!
Kaoru: Seems like it.
[Hanna observes Kaoru and notices something rare: he's smiling.]
Hanna: You should smile more, it looks good on you.
Kaoru: ...Thanks.
[They walk a bit further to a point where they need to part ways.]
Hanna: That was fun. Let's do this again sometime.
Kaoru: Yeah, maybe.
[She smiles, waves, and turns to head home. Kaoru watches her for a moment before continuing on his way.]
[For the first time, Kaoru smiles for reasons other than chess or the children. Could Hanna be the reason?]
Hoshikawa Orphanage - Kaoru's Room
[CODE Notification]
[Kaoru picks up his phone and sees the message]
CODE: New update available on the “National Championship”. Wish to obtain more information? Y/N
Kaoru, lying on his bed, reached out and selected "Yes". The interface glowed blue, loading the data as he got up and sat on the edge of the bed, focused on the screen.
[Explanation about the National Championship]
The National Chess Championship organized by the OME is the country's most prestigious tournament, where the top 16 players of the season compete for the title of "National Champion”. The tournament follows a double-elimination system, ensuring each player gets a second chance if they lose a match. The winner not only gains recognition but also a spot to compete in the International Championship, where they will face champions from other countries.
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Location: Grand Arena of Shinjuku, Tokyo.
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Date: Two months from now.
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Format: Double elimination, classical games of 90+30.
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Prize: 10 million yen and an invitation to the “International Championship”.
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Competitors: 16 best players in the country, including prodigies and experienced veterans.
Kaoru: So... I have two months until then.
The interface flickered again with a new message.
CODE: Do you wish to obtain an effective training schedule to prepare for the "National Championship"?
Kaoru leaned forward, his eyes gleaming with interest.
Kaoru: Yes, but first... I want a history of the players I'll be facing.
CODE: (processing...) Unfortunately, the personal data of chess players are protected by OME guidelines. Only match records and performance statistics are accessible. Any other information is kept confidential to prevent external interference.
Kaoru clenched his fists for a moment, but then relaxed.
Kaoru: Alright. Then show me the main players and their known statistics.
The screen projected a list with the profiles of the tournament's main opponents.
[List of Adversaries]
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Arata Mizuhara (Rating: 4500 Elo) – "Devil King"
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Former national champion.
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Style: extremely aggressive, loves endgames with 3 pieces.
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History: 99% win rate in endgames.
-
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Tsubaki Renjou (Rating: 3870 Elo) - "70 Lances"
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Known for her aggressive and unpredictable openings.
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Frequent user of tactical sacrifices.
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History: 90% win rate in games exceeding 70 moves.
-
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Daichi Furuhashi (Rating: 3690 Elo) - "The Architect"
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Master of calculated moves and long-term plans.
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History: 85% win rate in 90-minute games.
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Ryoma Tatsuki (Rating: 3555 Elo) - "The Ghost"
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Hybrid player, masterfully alternates between offense and defense.
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History: Won 91% of matches against opponents with ratings below 3000.
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Souta Ishigami (Rating: 3499 Elo) - "The Killer"
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Precise strategy, exploits small mistakes to destroy the opponent.
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History: 70% win rate against defensive players.
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Kaoru: Interesting... Do I even have a chance against these guys?
The screen glowed again as CODE calculated.
CODE: (Analyzing...)
After a few seconds, the results appeared.
CODE: Based on your current performance and the opponents' playing patterns, your probability of winning the “National Championship” is 42.7%. However, with adequate training and strategic optimization, this number can increase significantly.
Kaoru fell silent for a few moments, absorbing the information. Then, a smile appeared on his face—not of amusement, but of pure determination.
Kaoru: (Smiling with a sharp gaze) 42%... Is that all?
He stood up, feeling the adrenaline course through his body.
Kaoru: I will definitely win!