Rolling across the line, Ghost Plasma thought that had been the best race victory of their Marble Rally career. Their first, way back in 2016, had been arguably stronger with an almost wire-to-wire victory, but there was something incredibly satisfying about coming from a comfortable spot near the front up to title contention with a flawless move through a tricky overtake spot.
After watching Team Plasma rise from the dead in the Marble League Showdown to produce one of the most dominant performances in marble sports history, Ghost Plasma had felt reinvigorated coming into this season. They and their team had been through a lot together, and if Team Plasma could mount a triumphant return, then surely Ghost Plasma could recover from the devastating DNFs that cost them the championship last season. Silver and gold medals were a good start, even with an unfortunate crash in between.
As Ghost Plasma looked back to see Ducktape cross the line in second, they couldn’t help but grin. “I guess that makes us even after last season, eh?” Ducktape laughed, fondly remembering their other career silver which had been won by a last-stretch overtake on Ghost Plasma. Season 5 had been Ducktape’s breakout after a disappointing debut in 2018, and they were keen to repeat their strong performance.
“Four career medals, and for three of them I’ve had to share the podium with you. Either your talent’s rubbing off on me, or you’re just my lucky charm!” Ducktape joked as the pair watched the oncoming marbles. Silver Bolt was next, hot off the heels of their photo finish win with another last-stretch overtake, this time on Crazy Cat’s Eye.
“Holy rolly,” the bronze medallist puffed as they realised their result, “this is insane. I don’t know how long I can keep pulling these comebacks off.”
Ghost Plasma and Ducktape laughed. “Enjoy it while it lasts, then,” Ghost Plasma responded as the race replays appeared on screen. “Those overtakes never get any less cool – although I think Moody might have something to say about that!”
As the medallists headed off to the podium ceremony, Ducktape turned to Ghost Plasma. “So, the podium party – winner buys the drinks, right Plaz?”
With a wink, Ghost Plasma responded, “Naturally. Come by the bar later, and I can show you just how well Pinky Winky IPA goes with the taste of victory.”
Credits
- Writer: GhostDM
- Editor: Stynth
- Photographer: Jelle’s Marble Runs
- Reference: Marble Rally S6 – Race 3 | Jelle’s Marble Runs
- Release: 24/02/2023
Project Marblearth 