James Pearce's AI-generated face remained perfectly calm, but the information he presented on the holographic display was anything but.
He tapped his tablet, and the EFL Trophy bracket materialized in the air of Ethan's office. A glowing line connected the Apex United crest to their first-round opponent.
"The draw has been made, gaffer," James said, his voice even. "Our first match in the Apex Challenge will be an away trip."
Ethan leaned forward, his eyes tracing the line, his heart beginning to beat a little faster.
The crest at the other end was a striking bluebird. "Cardiff City," he read aloud, a low whistle escaping his lips.
"Correct," James confirmed. "Currently mid-table in the Championship. A very physical, well-organized side. It is, to put it mildly, one of the toughest possible draws we could have received."
A Championship team. Again. The game wasn't just throwing him a challenge; it was throwing him a mountain.
