Chapter 280

Clael and his delightful companions—the bear, the dog, the cat, and the shoebill plushies—were set to participate in the snowball fights.

"Alright then, everyone... let's do our best."

"Bear!"

"Woof woof!"

"Meow!"

"Shoebill!"

In response to Clael's words, his teammates gave back brave cries.

As they entered the venue with the four plushies in tow, the surrounding spectators immediately erupted into surprise and cheers.

"Huh... hey, those are plushies, right?"

"Wait, are those participants too? How are they even moving?"

"Mama, that one's so cute. It's toddling around!"

"Go kitty, gooo!"

The voices of surprise came from adults, while the cheers came from children.

Just as the organizers had hoped... with the arrival of Clael and the four plushies, the venue was bursting with excitement.

(They say shame on a journey is something you leave behind... yeah.)

While falling into a state of resignation, Clael cast aside his shame and walked across the snow.

This too would be a travel memory. Being labeled as the man who teamed up with plushies—what's a little embarrassment?

"Oh, come on... old man, are you seriously entering with that team?"

But... such mocking words were thrown at Clael.

"Are you underestimating snowball fights? Well then, this match is in the bag!"

The one speaking so arrogantly was the opposing team's leader.

The opposing team, made up of teenagers, wore matching uniforms and goggles, looking every bit like seasoned athletes.

"We, 'Snow Phoenix', are the reigning champions for three years straight! A bunch of plushies and an old guy trying to stand in our way? You're a hundred years too early. Run off with your tail between your legs!"

"Whoa... they're hardcore snowball fight enthusiasts."

Every field has its elites.

The opposing team, who called themselves 'Snow Phoenix', appeared to be a group of local youths, and their confident expressions showed they were certain of victory.

"Just don't come crying and whining like a dog when you get hurt, alright? Watching an old man bawl is just pathetic!"

"...I'm still in my twenties. I'm not old enough to be called an old man."

Clael let out a deep sigh at the youths who kept provoking him.

"Also... setting me aside, if you underestimate these little ones, you'll regret it."

"Hah, save the jokes for your team members! You'd better book a hospital now, 'cause we're gonna beat you up real good!"

"That's enough talking. The match is about to begin. Move to your starting positions."

As the opponents continued to provoke them noisily, the referee stepped in to stop them.

Clael and his delightful companions, along with the members of 'Snow Phoenix', moved to opposite sides.

Each side took their positions. They hid behind the snow walls that had been built there.

"Now then... everyone, I'm counting on you."

"Bear bear beaaar!"

"Woof woof!"

"Hissss!"

"Shoebillll!"

At Clael's call, the plushies began hopping up and down excitedly.

Having been provoked by the opponents, they seemed angry too. A fighting spirit radiated from their small bodies.

"This... I might actually have to feel sorry for the opponents."

Predicting the events that were about to unfold, Clael gave a wry smile.

(I do feel bad for those hardcore players... but this will be a good lesson for that cocky kid. He'll have to accept that he picked the wrong fight.)

"Now then... ready, start!"

"Go for it, Clael!"

The referee declared the start of the snowball fight.

Hearing Reina's cheer at the same time, Clael scooped up snow with his hand.