LOL: What does it mean to torture players?

Although Viper's Chinese wasn't very fluent, he followed everyone else's example, raised his glass, and solemnly said to Su Mo in his slightly broken Korean-accented Chinese, "Brother Mo, impressive. I... toast to you."

His eyes were sincere, filled with admiration for the strong.

He was once a prodigy in the LCK, but Su Mo's performance today completely refreshed his understanding of the word "powerful".

"You're too kind," Su Mo said, clinking glasses with him. "You're very strong too. Let's cooperate more in the future."

Saint Gun seemed somewhat silent, quietly simmering his meat until Abu picked up his drink.

"Come on, everyone, calm down," Abu stood up, his face beaming with barely suppressed joy. "This toast, on behalf of the club, is for Xiao Mo. Not just for this victory, but also for bringing back the 'soul' of our team!"

Su Mo smiled and clinked glasses with him: "Brother Bu, you're too kind."

“You’re welcome,” Abu put down his cup, his gaze sweeping over everyone. “Holy Gun, don’t feel pressured. After Xiao Mo finishes this match, you’ll be playing in the next one. What you need to do is not imitate him, but find that confidence and dominance in him, and play your own style!”

Just as Abu finished speaking, there was a gentle knock on the door of the private room.

The waiter led the restaurant manager in, who wore a respectful yet somewhat embarrassed smile: "Gentlemen, I'm so sorry to bother you. It's like this, there's a customer outside who says... says he's a fan of player Mo and insists on coming in to offer a toast. What do you think..."

"Fans?" Jiejie was the first to exclaim, "Male or female?"

The manager quickly replied, "She is a lady, very... very elegant."

Abu frowned. As the manager, his instinct was to refuse any disturbance from fans in this kind of setting. But before he could speak, Su Mo said calmly, "Let her in. It's just a drink, it's fine."

Having received permission, the manager felt as if he had been granted a pardon and immediately turned around to go out and fetch the person.

A few seconds later, when the door to the private room was pushed open again, everyone's movements—including those picking up food, drinking, and chatting—froze in an instant.

Jiejie's mouth opened into an "O" shape, and the chopsticks in her hand fell to the table with a "clatter".

Even the usually composed Scout and Meiko showed a hint of amazement in their eyes.

A woman wearing a burgundy haute couture gown walked in.

She was around twenty-seven or twenty-eight years old, with her meticulously styled, long, wavy hair casually draped over her shoulders. Her exquisite makeup appeared even more alluring under the soft lighting of the restaurant. The well-tailored long dress perfectly accentuated her curvaceous figure, and her exposed shoulders and collarbones were as white as jade. The understated yet priceless Patek Philippe watch on her wrist silently spoke of her status.

She showed none of the awkwardness or excitement of an ordinary fan meeting their idol; instead, she exuded a composure and aura of someone accustomed to being in a superior position. Her gaze swept over the crowd and landed on Su Mo, her red lips curving slightly upwards into a confident and alluring smile.

"Excuse me for interrupting your celebration banquet." Her voice was clear and melodious, like jade beads falling onto a plate. "My name is Qin Lan. I am a loyal fan of Brother Mozi. I came here today specifically to toast Brother Mozi."

As she spoke, the waiter behind her immediately stepped forward, holding an exquisite wooden box in his hands.

Qin Lan personally opened the wooden box and took out a bottle of red wine with an antique label and a crystal-clear stemmed glass.

“This is a 82 Romanée-Conti,” she said, personally pouring half a glass for Su Mo. The wine-red liquid swirled in the glass, releasing a rich aroma. “It’s just a small gift, nothing special.”

The entire private room was completely silent.

Some of you may have heard of 82 Lafite, but 82 Romanée-Conti… Jiejie felt his brain was a bit overwhelmed. All he knew was that the price of that stuff would probably have a long string of zeros.

Su Mo was slightly taken aback when he saw the powerful woman in front of him, but he quickly regained his composure. He stood up, took the wine glass, and smiled politely, "Miss Qin, you're too kind. Coming to the competition is the greatest support you can give us."

"The strong deserve the highest respect." Qin Lan raised her champagne glass and gently clinked it against Su Mo's, making a crisp sound. "Brother Mo, congratulations, and I look forward to your even more brilliant performances in the future."

She drank it all in one gulp, her movements elegant and graceful.

Su Mo also took a sip and nodded: "Thank you."

After toasting, Qin Lan didn't leave immediately. She took out her phone, skillfully opened the WeChat QR code, and handed it to Su Mo, looking directly at him: "I wonder if I have the honor of making friends with God Mo?"

Even Abu and the factory manager were stunned.

This isn't a fan meeting their idol; it's clearly the queen bestowing her favor upon them!

Looking at the stunningly beautiful face so close to him, Su Mo finally nodded and took out his phone to scan the QR code.

"It's a pleasure to cooperate." Qin Lan's face blossomed into an even brighter smile. She winked at Su Mo, leaving him with a meaningful look, then turned around, and in her high heels, gracefully left the private room amidst the stunned gazes of her teammates, leaving behind only the fragrance of the room and that priceless bottle of red wine.

Only after the door to the private room was closed again did Jiejie slap her thigh and let out a wail:
"Holy crap! Brother Mozi! Is that a fan? Is that bottle of wine enough to buy our base?"

Meiko also came to her senses, looked at the bottle of wine, and exclaimed, "This...this is too exaggerated. Brother Mozi, we can't even catch up with your luck with women."

Saint Gun muttered to himself, "So... this is what it feels like to be a god? When I was with LNG, the most I ever received were spicy snacks from fans..."

The private room was once again filled with a cheerful yet slightly sour atmosphere.

Looking at this group of lively characters, Su Mo shook his head helplessly. He picked up the bottle of Romanée-Conti and said to the waiter, "Please open it so everyone can have a taste."

"No, no, no!" Jiejie quickly waved her hand. "Brother Mozi, this is a love token given to you by that rich woman. How could we dare to drink it! Keep it. If you don't want to play professionally anymore in the future, you can save yourself thirty years of hard work!"

These words once again made everyone laugh so hard they were doubled over.

……

The celebration banquet ended in a joyful atmosphere.

Back in his dorm, Su Mo had just finished washing up when his phone vibrated.

It was a message from "Qin Lan," the person I had just added, whose profile picture was a red rose with thorns.

The content is simple, yet it is not simple at all.

"Thank you for coming tonight. I hope I didn't disturb you and your teammates. Also, I'm having a private wine tasting this weekend with some friends from the industry. I wonder if you'd be interested in coming and relaxing?"

Su Mo looked at the message, leaned against the headboard, and fell into deep thought.

He wasn't a greenhorn; he could naturally see the deeper meaning behind the other party's actions.

This goes beyond the realm of ordinary fans; it's more like a social invitation from high society, or rather... a test.

To go or not to go?

He thought for a moment, then typed a word on the screen.

"it is good."

He wanted to see what tricks this mysterious "fan" was up to.

We can't exactly trick him into having his kidneys cut off, can we?

Su Mo looked at the message, leaned against the headboard, and fell into deep thought.

…………

The next morning, the hangover subsided, and the EDG base returned to the rigor and efficiency expected of a professional esports team.

Last night's hotpot and revelry seemed like a fleeting dream. When the team members arrived at the training room on time, the focus of professional players returned to everyone's faces.

The debriefing meeting started promptly at 10:00 AM.

On the huge tactical screen, the replay of yesterday's first game against TES was playing.

Abu stood in front of the screen, laser pointer in hand, his expression serious: "We won, which is something to be happy about. But we must find the parts where we won by chance. In this fight, Meiko, your Thresh was positioned too far forward, giving Zhuo Rui'er a perfect opportunity to initiate. If it weren't for Xiao Mo's heroics, we would have undoubtedly lost this team fight, and it might even have led to our defeat in the first game."

Meiko nodded seriously, without offering any excuses: "It was my fault. I was looking for an opportunity to strike first and I overlooked the opponent's position."

Abu then switched the camera to the second game, pointing to a laning phase in the bottom lane: "Viper, your Tristana pushed too far into the lane this time. Without summoner spells, Karsa caught you out. Although you didn't die in the end, it directly led to our early disadvantage in the bottom lane. Remember, the core of our strategy is to let Mo farm in the top lane. What you bottom lane need to do is play it safe, not take risks."

Viper solemnly replied, "I understand, Coach."

Throughout the debriefing meeting, no one was complacent about yesterday's victory; the atmosphere was serious and efficient. This is the foundation of a champion team—victory cannot cover up problems, and defeat should be learned from.

After the post-match review meeting, Abu cleared his throat and announced the upcoming arrangements: "In the next match, against WE, Flandre will start."

All eyes turned to Flandre.

Saint Gunner was visibly taken aback for a moment, then a complex emotion flashed in his eyes. He stood up and bowed deeply to Su Mo and the coaching staff: "Thank you, Coach and Brother Mo, for giving me this opportunity. I will definitely play my best."

Su Mo smiled at him: "Don't feel pressured, just do as I told you yesterday, and show some 'bandit spirit'."

This rotation decision once again demonstrates the shrewdness of the EDG coaching staff. By allowing Su Mo to play in the most crucial and tough matches, they stabilized the team's morale and boosted their spirits; while when facing relatively weaker teams, they gave Flandre ample trust and room for adjustment. This not only ensured the team's performance but also maintained a healthy competitive atmosphere within the team.

In the afternoon, instead of tedious ranked games, the team members were engaged in an officially arranged activity—the filming of an LPL promotional video.

The filming location was the alliance's broadcasting base.

When the entire EDG team walked into the studio in their brand-new team uniforms, they were immediately greeted with enthusiastic cheers. The director, photographer, lighting technician, and even the logistics staff looked at them with shining eyes. This is the treatment of champions.

"Come on, EDG's handsome guys, get ready over here!" The director, a middle-aged man wearing a baseball cap, greeted Su Mo warmly with a broad smile. "God Mo, I've heard so much about you! Thank you for your hard work today!"

"Director Li, you're too kind," Su Mo replied politely.

The filming process can be quite tedious for professional athletes. It's basically just about striking various cool poses as instructed by the director.

"Jiejie, make your eyes even fiercer! Yes! Imagine you're raiding the enemy jungle!"

"Viper, don't be so reserved, relax, smile! Uh, never mind, you look better without smiling..."

"Scout, yes, that disdainful look, hold on to it!"

When it was Su Mo's turn to film solo, the director put in even more effort.

"Master Mo, please feel free to do whatever makes you comfortable." The director's attitude was unusually respectful.

Su Mo simply sat down casually in the gaming chair that symbolized the throne, crossed his arms in front of his chest, and looked calmly at the camera.

There were no deliberate expressions, no exaggerated movements, but it was that innate, domineering composure and confidence that made the director behind the camera widen his eyes instantly.

"Perfect! Absolutely perfect!" The director slapped his thigh excitedly. "That's the feeling! The feeling of a king! He doesn't need to act, he *is* a king!"

Jiejie, watching from the side, felt a pang of envy and jealousy, and whispered to Meiko, "How can the difference between people be so huge?"

The photoshoot concluded in a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.

The weekend is fast approaching.

That evening, Su Mo took a taxi to a top-tier private club located on the Bund, following the address sent by Qin Lan.

There are no signs here, only an understated yet luxurious entrance and well-trained security personnel.

After giving Qin Lan's name, Su Mo was respectfully led to a private elevator by a well-dressed waiter.

The elevator goes straight to the top floor, and once the door opens, you'll find a rooftop terrace with a wide view.

Below, the Huangpu River night view is as dazzling as a galaxy, and in the distance, the Oriental Pearl Tower and the "three-piece suit" (referring to the iconic Shanghai Tower, Shanghai Tower, and Taipei Tower) gleam in the night. On the terrace, melodious jazz music flows, and well-dressed men and women gather in twos and threes, holding wine glasses and talking in hushed tones.

Everyone here has an extraordinary presence, and their every move exudes the confidence of the elite.

Su Mo's appearance immediately attracted the attention of many people. He was dressed casually today, wearing a simple white T-shirt and a black casual jacket, which seemed somewhat out of place with the surrounding environment of suits and ties.

But his composure and handsome appearance made him the most unique presence in the entire room.

"You're here."

A fragrant breeze wafted by, and Qin Lan, carrying two glasses of champagne, gracefully walked up to him.

Tonight, she wore a black backless evening gown, her long hair styled in a high updo, revealing her swan-like neck. Her makeup was even more exquisite than before, her red lips like fire, and her eyes exuding a fatal allure.

"Miss Qin." Su Mo accepted the champagne she offered and nodded politely.

"Just call me Qin Lan here." She winked at Su Mo, a playful smile curving her lips. "Come on, I'll introduce you to some friends."

She naturally took Su Mo's arm and led him towards a group of people in the center of the terrace.

"Let me introduce you all," Qin Lan's voice wasn't loud, but it instantly attracted everyone's attention, "This is the 'god' of our LPL that I often mention to you—Mo, Su Mo."

A polite round of applause broke out in the crowd, but most of the scrutinizing gazes carried curiosity and a hint of barely perceptible disdain.

In their view, a "gaming addict" who plays games, no matter how famous he becomes, is ultimately not respectable.

"This is Mr. Li from Tianhong Capital, who mainly focuses on private equity investment," Qin Lan introduced, pointing to a middle-aged man wearing gold-rimmed glasses.

"This is Chairman Wang of Huayi Media, you should know him."

"Who is this……"

Qin Lan introduced several big names in the industry to Su Mo one by one. Su Mo simply nodded to them calmly, without the slightest awkwardness or obsequiousness.

"Xiao Su, right?" Mr. Li from Tianhong Capital pushed up his glasses and said with a forced smile, "To be able to play games to this level at such a young age is quite impressive. You must make a lot of money in a year, right?"

These words, seemingly a compliment, are actually filled with a condescending sense of superiority.

Before Su Mo could answer, Qin Lan chuckled and continued, "President Li, you're underestimating our Mo Shen. Last year, his prize money and endorsement fees alone probably exceeded your company's annual net profit."

Mr. Li's expression stiffened slightly.

“Moreover,” Qin Lan swirled the wine in her glass, her gaze sweeping over the crowd, “what Mo Shen possesses is something money can’t buy—an unparalleled influence among hundreds of millions of young people. Isn’t that the most valuable asset of this era?”

These words silenced the assembled bigwigs.

They were all shrewd people, and they could naturally hear the undisguised protection and admiration Qin Lan showed for Su-Mo in her words.

They began to re-examine the unusually calm young man before them.

Just then, a slightly magnetic voice came from the side.

"Influence is indeed the most scarce resource in this era."

Everyone turned around and saw a tall, well-built man in a custom-made gray suit, with a refined air, walking over with a wine glass in his hand.

"Mr. Zhou."

"Hello, Mr. Zhou."

The bigwigs present all showed respectful expressions upon seeing the newcomer.

A fleeting, almost imperceptible flicker of emotion crossed Qin Lan's eyes, but she quickly regained her composure and introduced with a smile, "Brother Mozi, this is Zhou Yi, the CEO of Shengshi Group."

"Hello." Su Mo looked at the other person and nodded calmly.

Zhou Yi's gaze lingered for a moment on the arms linked by Su Mo and Qin Lan, then he smiled and extended his hand to Su Mo: "I've heard so much about you, Brother Mo. I'm a loyal League of Legends viewer. I watched your Aatrox game in the S10 finals at least ten times. It was absolutely amazing."

His attitude was neither humble nor arrogant, showing neither the mercenary nature of a businessman nor the arrogance of a superior, making people feel as if they were bathed in a spring breeze.

"You flatter me." Su Mo shook hands with him.

“I’ve always believed that top professional players, like top chess players and athletes, possess extraordinary wisdom, determination, and perseverance.” Zhou Yi released his grip and looked at Su Mo with sincere eyes. “Qin Lan is right. What you represent is the newest and most dynamic force of this era. If there’s an opportunity, I would love to have an in-depth conversation with you, Brother Mo.”

These words made everyone present look at Su Mo with new respect.

This young man is no ordinary person; to receive such high praise from Zhou Yi, he must be extraordinary.

The atmosphere at the subsequent cocktail party became subtle.

They started to strike up conversations with him, and the topics shifted from "how much money can you make playing games" to deeper topics such as "the future development of the e-sports industry" and "the commercial value of young users."

Su Mo's answers were always incisive, displaying both the sharpness of youth and a wisdom and perspective beyond his years, which secretly alarmed these seasoned veterans who had spent half their lives in the business world.

Halfway through the party, Qin Lan led Su Mo to a corner of the terrace.

"How are you feeling?" She leaned against the railing, the evening breeze ruffling her long hair.

“Not bad,” Su Mo said, taking a sip of champagne. “I met quite a few important people.”

“They’re not big shots,” Qin Lan shook her head, turning her head to look at him, her eyes shining brightly in the hazy night. “You are. All they have are capital and resources, while you have the ability to create legends. Su Mo, have you ever thought about using this ability on a broader stage?”

Upon hearing this, Su Mo raised an eyebrow: "For example?"

"For example, establish a personal brand centered around you, or build your own e-sports empire." Qin Lan's eyes gleamed with ambition. "Leave the funding, resources, and operations to me. You just need to be yourself and continue being that omnipotent 'god'."

She leaned closer, her red lips almost touching Su Mo's ear, her breath sweet as orchids:
"If we join forces, we can create a business legend even greater than 'Shengshi Group.' How about it?"

Su Mo looked at her beautiful face, so close to his, brimming with desire and confidence, and didn't answer immediately.

He simply downed the remaining champagne in his glass, then turned to look at the vibrant yet profound night sky illuminated by countless lights.

This woman is indeed extraordinary.

Her ambition was far greater than he had imagined. (End of Chapter)