A Study in Humility

“Check.”, Itsuki said as he moved a rook made of ice to a spot adjacent to Tsuki's king. After moving the piece, he looked at the sun that was high in the sky on this particular lazy Saturday afternoon. Tsuki, who was sitting across from him, scratched her head in frustration as she looked at the icy chessboard. “Would it hurt you to go on easy on me every once in a while?”, she spoke. There was silence after this question, suggesting that Itsuki was too deep in his thoughts to hear his close companion. This prompted her to repeat her question, this time a bit louder. “I don't go easy on you because I know you wouldn't like it in the long run,” he responded, looking back at Tsuki to give her a friendly and knowing smile. The remark stopped Tsuki from arguing any further since she knew he was right. She had a small smile on her face when she looked back at the board and moved her king out of check.

Nothing else was said during the game because nothing needed to be said. This was normal for the two since they can seemingly communicate through eye contact alone. Finally, after half an hour. “Checkmate,” Itsuki spoke just when he sensed someone enter the guild hall.