The Playoffs
Requirements / Rewards
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Part 1
Autumn: Why isn’t Julian talking to us about Max’s offer?
A few days after the big game against Hearst, you and Autumn meet up with Julian outside the gym.
Danny: Hey, Julian. How’s the leg healing up?
Julian: Slow. The doctor says I need two more weeks to get better.
Danny: That’s perfect! You’ll be healthy in time for the State Championship Game.
Julian: Yeah. That’s assuming we make it that far. You saw what happened against Hearst. Do you REALLY think we’ll survive two rounds of playoff games?
Autumn: It’s… possible. Right, Danny?
Danny: Of course it’s possible! I know our school can rally and win these games!
Julian: If you say so…
Seeming distracted, Julian looks off into the distance.
Danny: Is, uh, everything okay? Anything on your mind?
Autumn: Yeah, you never told us about what Max wanted to talk to you about the other day.
Julian: It was nothing. Just his usual trash talk. Uh, I’ve got to go. See you guys later.
Julian heads off on his crutches.
Danny: He’s definitely thinking about something. You don’t think he’s actually considering leaving us for Hearst High, do you?
Rewards
Autumn: I just don’t understand why Julian would keep this from us. We’re supposed to be friends.
Danny: You know, we’re not being the greatest of friends either.
Autumn: What do you mean?
Danny: We KNOW what they talked about, but we’re acting like we don’t. So it’s not like we’re being honest either. I think it’s time you and Julian clear the air.
Autumn: You know what, Danny… you’re right. I should go talk to him openly.
Part 2
Autumn: Let’s be honest with Julian.
You and Autumn spot Julian looking over some papers.
Autumn: Julian. Hey… wait. What are these?
Julian: They’re… they’re nothing!
Autumn picks up the papers!
Autumn: They transfer papers to Hearst… in an envelope from Max!
Julian: I… I can explain.
Autumn: You don’t have to! I heard what Max said to you in the locker room. Danny and I were there!
Julian: You were?!
Time - 10 hours
Autumn: We know that Max asked you to come back to Hearst to play for them, Julian. I just don’t know why you wouldn’t tell us about this.
Julian: Well, because… it’s because…
Danny: Because you’re actually considering it, aren’t you? You’re thinking of transferring back.
You all look down at the transfer papers, which Julian still hasn’t signed.
Autumn: Julian, tell me you’re not thinking of going back there! They treated you awfully!
Julian: Guy, don’t you see? You were right. I was wrong to try and make everyone’s life here revolve around football when you all have your own interests. Football is all I have. So maybe I SHOULD go to a school where football is everything… somewhere like Hearst.
Autumn: I… I see.
Julian: I didn’t say…
Autumn: Forget it, okay? It’s fine. Do whatever you want.
Autumn storms out of the room and disappears among the students milling about.
Julian: Autumn, wait up!
He grab his crutches and leaves, trying to catch up to Autumn.
Danny: That did NOT go well.
Rewards
Ezra and Mia hurry up to you.
Ezra: That was some serious emotion just now.
Mia: Is Julian really leaving the school? I know it’s not my fault… but I AM partly responsible for taking the focus off football. I feel terrible!
Danny: I hope he doesn’t leave… but part of me thinks he’s right. He has to think about what school gives him the best shot at the future he wants. And right now, with our school playing poorly and never attracting any scouts… that might be Hearst.
Ezra: Ain’t that the truth. A man must go wherever his road takes him… But that doesn’t mean we can’t make sure that our school gives Julian every opportunity that Hearst would.
Danny: You’re right. We need to get scouts into OUR stands. And to do that… we just have to keep winning in the playoffs. Then they’ll have no choice but to pay attention.
Ezra: Easier said than done. How are we going to face our toughest competition yet without our best player?
Danny: Hearst was able to beat us because we’d been coasting for so long that the team got complacent.
Mia: In that case, we need to whip them into shape! I think it’s time we introduce them to some REAL workouts. Mia-style!
Danny: Do you really think you can get the football team back in peak condition, Mia?
Mia: Of course! The jocks did so much to help the cheer squad prep for the showdown with Hearst. It’s time for us to return the favor. But I’ll tell you right now, it’s not going to be easy!
Part 3
Mia: You want me to whip the football team into shape? Let’s get started.
Mia: All right listen up! Our opponents in the first round of the playoffs are the Ironside High Elephants.
Danny: They have a ton of massive players and like to run the ball straight at you, so our focus today is weight training!
Mia: Do EXACTLY as I say, and you’ll be ready to take on the toughest team in no time!
You watch as Mia marshals the football team in exercises, having the players lift each other, cheerleading style!
Ezra: Uff! You guys are REALLY heavy!
By the end of the practice, the team trudges off the field, drained.
Ezra: That was the hardest I’ve ever worked out…
Mia: But do you feel good?
Ezra: I feel great!
Rewards
Later that week…
Danny: Hey, Julian! Ready to watch tonight’s game? The team is looking great!
Julian: Sorry, Danny… I don’t think I can make it.
Danny: You… you’re not going to watch?
Julian: I… I’ve got an appointment with my physical therapist tonight.
Julian walks off, slumping into his crutches.
Danny: …
That night, your fans pack the stadium as your school hosts Ironside High in the first round of the state playoffs! Down on the sidelines, Mia brings the football team into a huddle before kickoff.
Mia: You’ve worked your tails off all week! You’ve got what it takes to stand up to these bruisers! Now gimme a W! Gimme an I! Gimme an N! What’s that spell?!
Ezra: Win!
The team cheers and heads out onto the field! Ezra pulls you aside.
Ezra: Hey, Danny, we’re forgetting one thing. We still need a running back to replace Julian. I was going to ask Julian who he thought would be best… but he couldn’t make it. Who do YOU think we should start?
Part 4
Ezra: Who should start at running back in Julian’s place?
The game kicks off! On Ironside High’s first play, they run the ball straight at your team…
Payton: Oh no! Can our defense hold?
Mia: It sure can! Look! We just tackled their running back behind the line of scrimmage!
Payton: Yeah! Way to go, team!
Danny: Now it’s our turn on offense!
Ezra: Ironside’s defense is tough. You sure you’re ready for this, Emily?
Emily: I was born ready! Let’s go!
Time - 12 hours
The game grinds on, rainfall turning the field to sludge. Every play, the two teams slam into each other in a grueling test of strength.
Ezra: We’re down 10-6, and there’s only a minute left! How are we going to get a touchdown?
Emily: Just get me the ball! I can do this!
Your team lines up with the clock winding down. Ironside’s massive defenders bunch up front, ready to swarm to the ball.
Ezra: Everyone get ready!
The plays starts, and the quarterback sweeps back! Emily takes the handoff and storms forward…
Emily: Oof!
Payton: Oh no! Emily is going down!
Mia: Not quite… it’s time to see if those exercises we did have paid off!
Suddenly, the defenders go flying as Emily lets out a roar and breaks free from the pack!
Mia: Woo hoo! Go Emily!
Emily runs it all the way to the endzone!
Mia: We did it! We’re into the next round of the playoffs!
Rewards
After the game, your school’s players and fans celebrate the win in the parking lot!
Autumn: Awesome win, everyone!
Ezra: It was all Emily… and Mia’s training! Personally, I can’t believe we won without Julian.
Autumn: Yeah…
As your friends joke around, you and Wes notice Autumn gloomily walking off by herself.
Wes: Autumn doesn’t look too good. We should probably talk to her.
Part 5
Wes: Let’s see what’s up with Autumn
Danny: Autumn! Where are you going?
Autumn: Uh, I think I’m just going to head home early.
Wes: Look, we’re not gonna ask you what’s wrong.
Autumn: …
Wes: Wait… are you… crying?
Time - 14 hours
Wes: I’m sorry, Autumn. Julian means a lot to all of us, but I know you two are especially close.
Autumn: I just don’t get it… how can everyone just keep going on like everything is totally normal? Julian is actually planning on leaving! I guess just watching the game today made me realize what this school would look like without him. It just wouldn’t be the same here without him! How can he just leave us… it’s selfish!
Wes: I knew he’d do this one day… I knew Julian was…
Autumn breaks down crying, and Wes holds her close.
Wes: Wait… please don’t cry. I didn’t mean it. Julian may not be my favorite person, but deep down he’s a good guy. The thing is, Autumn… when you care about someone, it means you want what’s best for them. Remember when you left ME behind so you could pursue you art? So you could do what you love?
Autumn: I remember…
Wes: It hurt so bad to say goodbye to you… but I was happy knowing you were chasing your dream.
Wes tucks a stray hair behind Autumn’s ear.
Wes: I was rooting for you, kid. I wanted the best for you, even if I couldn’t be there to see it.
Autumn: You’re… you’re right. Julian’s not being selfish… I am. To be a real friend… I have to let Julian go.
Autumn wraps Wes in a tight hug.
Rewards
Mia and Ezra come up to your locker between classes.
Mia: Hey, Danny, we need to help the team prepare for the next round of the playoffs.
Ezra: It’s an away game against the Eugene High Knights, and they’re going to be a brutal matchup.
Mia: Where Ironside was slow and powerful, Eugene’s players are all super fast and nimble. They average 63 points per game!
Danny: Whoa! How do we stop them?
Ezra: We’re going to have to seriously upgrade our defensive playbook to contain them, but that will take a brilliant field strategist.
Danny: Then we know who we need…
Part 6
Ezra: We need some help with the gameplan if we want to win without Julian.
Sakura: You want ME to redesign your playbook?
Danny: You’re the best strategist we’ve got, Sakura. You can read opponents’ tendencies and exploit them.
Nishan: The way you broke the Protoss Siege in Starcraft II is STILL the stuff of legend in the pro gaming circuit. You’re a straight-up field general!
Sakura: But I know nothing about football!
James: That’s where I come in. I play Madden on Xbox every day. I can teach you the ins and outs with that.
Danny: Unless, of course, you don’t think you’re up to the challenge…
Sakura: Of course I’m up for it! Where’s my controller?
Time - 16 hours
Later, you and Mia find Sakura completely engrossed in Madden, eyes glued to the screen. James watches in awe nearby.
Danny: Hey, how’s the playbook coming, James? Why aren’t you playing?
James: I’ve played Madden every day since I was a little kid. Sakura stomped me in just our third game. She just beat the computer on All-Pro difficulty mode, 70-0. I’ve never seen anything like it!
Sakura sets down her controller and hands you a small notebook filled with diagrams.
Sakura: Here are some preliminary thoughts. You know, football actually isn’t all that terrible. It’s a lot like a turn-based strategy game, with different units and stats.
Danny: Wow, Sakura, these plays you drew up… they’re amazing!
Sakura: Why wouldn’t they be?
Rewards
Autumn: Hey, Danny.
Danny: You look in better spirits, Autumn.
Autumn: I’ve just been really impressed with how hard everyone’s been working to improve the football team. I think it would make Julian really happy to see this. What do you say we go show him how dedicated everyone is?
Danny: That’s not a bad idea!
Part 7
Autumn: Let’s show Julian all we’ve done.
You and Autumn find Julian doing curls alone in the weight room.
Julian: Oh! Danny! Autumn! Look, I know you’re mad--
Autumn: I’m not! I’m not mad anymore.
Julian: You’re not?
Autumn: Danny and I came here because we wanted to show you all the hard work the football team’s been doing… But now I realize what I really want to do is apologize…
Time - 18 hours
Julian: Apologize? To me?
Autumn: I’ve been really, really selfish. I couldn’t understand why you’d want to leave… but Danny and Wes have helped me get it. You owe it to yourself to do whatever you have to so that you can live your dream. And I want what’s best for you… even if we’ll really miss you. Because, transfer or not… you’ll always be my friend.
Julian: Autumn… you don’t know how much that means to me. I just want you to know… if I do go back to Hearst, I always want us to be… friends.
Autumn: Julian… I’m going to miss you so much.
Julian and Autumn embrace tightly.
Danny: We’re all going to miss you Julian…
Julian: …
Rewards
Later that week, Mia and Sakura come up to you as class lets out for the day.
Mia: Today’s the big day, Danny.
Sakura: Are you ready to claim your destiny?
Danny: Does that mean it’s time to bus over to Eugene for the semifinal game?
Sakura: Yes. Let’s do this!
Part 8
Sakura: Put on your game face.
The Eugene High crowd roars as the state semifinal kicks off! Sakura barks out defensive plays from the sideline.
Sakura: Thirty-one! Solid heavy! Solid heavy!
The Eugene Knights throw a deep pass… but your cornerback is able to knock the ball away!
Alex: I’m the best corner in the game! When you try me, that’s the result you’re gonna get!
Calivin: Great play, Alex!
Mia: Woo! Great play!
On your next possession, Emily drops back and slings the ball… But Ezra bobbles it, and a Eugene player yanks it out of the air and runs into your end zone with the interception!
Ezra: No!
Time - 20 hours
The ref blows the whistle, ending the first half. Your team jogs into the locker room, downcast.
Mia: This isn’t good. Sakura’s plays are holding Eugene to way less than their usual score, but we’re still down by seventeen points!
Sakura: Unacceptable! There’s a way to beat them! There has to be something we’re missing!
Danny: What do we do?
Ezra: I don’t know if there’s anything we CAN do, Danny. They’re too fast and too good. …I think this game is only gonna get worse.
Rewards
Mia: Ezra’s right… it’s all over.
The whole team hangs their heads, struggling to accept the truth. A somber silence hangs over the locker room…
Calivin: If Julian were here, he’d know what to do.
Alex: But he’s not here. It’s over.
You stand up.
Danny: I refuse to see you all hanging your heads. Look how far we’ve come! We made it to the state semifinals in our first year together! That’s something anyone would be proud of! And we all got here together!
The players look around, their eyes instinctively falling on the one empty locker.
Danny: Well, almost all of us.
Ezra: Julian was smart to leave. Look at us.
Autumn: It’s not his fault that we’re losing. Going back to Hearst was the right decision for him.
Julian: Who said I’m going anywhere?
You wheel around! Julian is standing in the doorway, a slight smirk on his face.
Autumn: Julian!
Julian: Yeah, it’s me. And I’ve got something to say…
Part 9
Julian: I want to say something to you all.
Mia: But… what are you doing here?
Julian: What do you think I’m doing? I’m here to support my teammates!
Danny: Your teammates? Does that mean…
Julian: I’ve worried a lot in my life that I was nothing more than a dumb jock… but the dumbest thing I ever thought was that I’d be better off at Hearst. THIS is where my friends are. This is where my team is. And no scouts, no spotlights, no scholarships can change that.
Julian exchanges a knowing look with Autumn.
Julian: And it took a very special friend to get that through my thick skull. But now I’m here to help… if you’ll have me.
Sakura: It’s too late. We’re facing insurmountable odds. Besides, you’re still hurt.
Julian: Sure, I can’t put on a jersey… but I can put on a headset. Sakura’s new plays are brilliant… but she doesn’t know our team like I do. The team isn’t made of robots or video game characters… it’s made of people. People I know! I can help take our game plan to the next level!
Julian heads over to a whiteboard and starts drawing up a play.
Sakura: This… this actually makes a lot of sense. Let’s do this!
Julian: Our season isn’t over just yet!
Time - 22 hours
Julian and Sakura feverishly draw schemes on a whiteboard while the rest of the team crowds around them.
Ezra: Back up, back up! Give them space!
Sakura: I’ve tried that alignment, but their cornerback can close that gap in 1.4 seconds!
Julian: That’s why we pull the tight end for a block!
Sakura: Leaving the quarterback clear for a throw! It’s genius!
Danny: It sounds like they’re making progress!
Autumn: Between Sakura’s brilliant strategy and Julian’s insane football IQ, I think they’re gonna have some ideas that high school football’s never seen before!
Rewards
The teams run out onto the Eugene High field for the second half! Julian, Sakura, and Mia watch intensely from the sidelines.
Sakura: Down seventeen points in enemy territory with just two quarters to go? You really think you can back up all that big talk in there?
Julian: I think we’ve got a shot. Because I believe in my teammates.
The ref blows the whistle to start the half. The Eugene High kicker jogs up to the tee… and kicks off!
Part 10
Julian: The game’s not over yet, but we’ll need the comeback of the century to pull this off!
The crowd is deafening as your team receives the kick! Emily breaks a tackle… but is taken down at the 25. Julian and Sakura talk hurriedly, then send the quarterback out with the play call.
Julian: All right, let’s make things happen…
Time - 19 hours
Your team marches down the field on its first possession of the half…
Sakura: Let’s call a fly sweep.
Julian: To the weak side.
Sakura: My thoughts exactly.
The quarterback takes the snap and immediately hands the ball off as Emily darts across the backfield!
Julian: Go, Emily! Run!
Mia: Emily is almost in the endzone!
Payton: But I don’t think Emily sees that defender!
In the nick of time, Emily hurdles over the defender, flipping into the endzone for the score!
Emily: Whoaaa!
Ezra: Touchdown!
Julian: That’s going on the highlight reel!
Sakura: Nice work not messing that up, Emily, but we’ve got a lot more catching up to do.
Rewards
The game continues, until…
Mia: I’m so nervous! Only two seconds left, and we’re still down by three points!
Sakura: We’re just barely in range for a game-tying field goal. It’s a long one, but we have no choice. Danny, let’s send in our kicker.
Part 11
Sakura: It all comes down to this, Send in our kicker.
As Alex jogs out onto the field to a chorus of boos, Julian confronts Sakura on the sideline…
Julian: Why did you call a field goal?!
Sakura: We have to force overtime!
Julian: Look around! Our guys are exhausted from chasing the Eugene players all day! We’ll get steamrolled in overtime! You play to win, not to tie!
Sakura: Are you nuts? A field goal, even at this range, has the highest statistical rate of success!
Julian: Football isn’t just about stats, Sakura! It’s about people! It’s about heart, and it’s about knowing the right call in your gut.
Sakura: Yeah, and what about your brain? I made the call, Julian. Alex is already out there, about to keep our season alive.
Out on the field, your team lines up. The quarterback gets on one knee a few yards back, ready to hold the ball for Alex’s kick. Julian watches Sakura storm off, then catches the quarterback’s eye from the sideline and signals… the quarterback nods.
Julian: Let’s do this.
Time - 21 hours
The Eugene High crowd screams at the top of their lungs, the racket ringing in your ears. Alex steps back several paces for the kick. The quarterback meets Alex’s eyes and nods.
Alex: …
Alex runs toward the quarterback, ready to kick… but at the last second, the QB scoops up the ball and runs around the side!
Sakura: What?! A fake?! That wasn’t the call!
The quarterback sprints sideways down the field as the bewildered Eugene defense closes in…
Julian: Here we go!
The quarterback chucks the ball deep… right into Alex’s arms!
Alex: I got it!
Mia: I can’t believe it! Touchdown! We won!
Julian: YEAAAAAH! State finals, here we come!
Rewards
Back at your school, your whole student body cheers as the team bus pulls up!
Nishan: That was more epic than the entire Lord of the Rings saga combined… PLUS The Hobbit!
Wes: Way to wait until the last second, guys. And Julian, that was a nice play call on the fake field goal there.
Julian: Thanks! It was definitely all about Alex’s catch, though…
Sakura stomps through the wild crowd and gets in Julian’s face.
Sakura: What was that, anyway?! You cancelled my call?
Wes: Relax, Sakura. Julian’s call worked, didn’t it?
Sakura: I thought we were a team…
Payton whistles loudly!
Payton: Party at my place, right now!
Julian: A party? We’ve got only a week until the finals…
Payton: Aw, take it easy, Julian! Just get the whole team over to my house. I’ll get everything set up!
Part 12
Payton: Bring the whole team to my house! I’ve got big plans!
As you walk up to Payton’s house…
Danny: Julian, smile a bit! We’d given up until you came back. We’re in the finals!
Julian: I know, it’s just… this party. Isn’t this the exact kind of thing that got us in trouble before the playoffs.
Julian pushes the door open and steps inside Payton’s enormous foyer.
Payton: SURPRISE!
Julian: What is all this?!
Time - 23 hours
In the living room, an enormous home theater screen displays paused game film, and the whole football team awaits you eagerly from rows of chairs.
Julian: What… what is this?
Payton: It’s a party! A film session party, that is! Like you said, Julian, we only have a week to prepare for the state finals, so we might as well prepare in style! There’s a ton of soda in the fridge, and all sorts of gourmet snacks in the--
Julian: Payton… this is amazing. Thank you.
Payton: Autumn helped.
Autumn: There are gonna be tons of college scouts at the state finals, so we’ve gotta make sure we’re the best we can possibly be, don’t we?
Danny: Absolutely.
Julian: You guys are the greatest. I knew I made the right decision staying here. And I’m here for good, win or lose.
Rewards
As the strategy party goes on…
Julian: You can see here that on running plays…
Nishan: Whoa, whoa, hold on! I just got a Twitter alert! The other state semifinal game just ended.
Payton: So who’s our opponent in the final?
Nishan: Take a wild guess.
Julian: Just as I’d hoped… …it’s Hearst High!
You school is facing your archrival in the state football final! Who will emerge victorious? Find out in the next quest!
Autumn: Why isn’t Julian talking to us about Max’s offer?
- Have 37 unlocked Plots
A few days after the big game against Hearst, you and Autumn meet up with Julian outside the gym.
Danny: Hey, Julian. How’s the leg healing up?
Julian: Slow. The doctor says I need two more weeks to get better.
Danny: That’s perfect! You’ll be healthy in time for the State Championship Game.
Julian: Yeah. That’s assuming we make it that far. You saw what happened against Hearst. Do you REALLY think we’ll survive two rounds of playoff games?
Autumn: It’s… possible. Right, Danny?
Danny: Of course it’s possible! I know our school can rally and win these games!
Julian: If you say so…
Seeming distracted, Julian looks off into the distance.
Danny: Is, uh, everything okay? Anything on your mind?
Autumn: Yeah, you never told us about what Max wanted to talk to you about the other day.
Julian: It was nothing. Just his usual trash talk. Uh, I’ve got to go. See you guys later.
Julian heads off on his crutches.
Danny: He’s definitely thinking about something. You don’t think he’s actually considering leaving us for Hearst High, do you?
Rewards
- 139 XP
Autumn: I just don’t understand why Julian would keep this from us. We’re supposed to be friends.
Danny: You know, we’re not being the greatest of friends either.
Autumn: What do you mean?
Danny: We KNOW what they talked about, but we’re acting like we don’t. So it’s not like we’re being honest either. I think it’s time you and Julian clear the air.
Autumn: You know what, Danny… you’re right. I should go talk to him openly.
Part 2
Autumn: Let’s be honest with Julian.
- Autumn
- Julian
You and Autumn spot Julian looking over some papers.
Autumn: Julian. Hey… wait. What are these?
Julian: They’re… they’re nothing!
Autumn picks up the papers!
Autumn: They transfer papers to Hearst… in an envelope from Max!
Julian: I… I can explain.
Autumn: You don’t have to! I heard what Max said to you in the locker room. Danny and I were there!
Julian: You were?!
Time - 10 hours
Autumn: We know that Max asked you to come back to Hearst to play for them, Julian. I just don’t know why you wouldn’t tell us about this.
Julian: Well, because… it’s because…
Danny: Because you’re actually considering it, aren’t you? You’re thinking of transferring back.
You all look down at the transfer papers, which Julian still hasn’t signed.
Autumn: Julian, tell me you’re not thinking of going back there! They treated you awfully!
Julian: Guy, don’t you see? You were right. I was wrong to try and make everyone’s life here revolve around football when you all have your own interests. Football is all I have. So maybe I SHOULD go to a school where football is everything… somewhere like Hearst.
Autumn: I… I see.
Julian: I didn’t say…
Autumn: Forget it, okay? It’s fine. Do whatever you want.
Autumn storms out of the room and disappears among the students milling about.
Julian: Autumn, wait up!
He grab his crutches and leaves, trying to catch up to Autumn.
Danny: That did NOT go well.
Rewards
- 139 XP
Ezra and Mia hurry up to you.
Ezra: That was some serious emotion just now.
Mia: Is Julian really leaving the school? I know it’s not my fault… but I AM partly responsible for taking the focus off football. I feel terrible!
Danny: I hope he doesn’t leave… but part of me thinks he’s right. He has to think about what school gives him the best shot at the future he wants. And right now, with our school playing poorly and never attracting any scouts… that might be Hearst.
Ezra: Ain’t that the truth. A man must go wherever his road takes him… But that doesn’t mean we can’t make sure that our school gives Julian every opportunity that Hearst would.
Danny: You’re right. We need to get scouts into OUR stands. And to do that… we just have to keep winning in the playoffs. Then they’ll have no choice but to pay attention.
Ezra: Easier said than done. How are we going to face our toughest competition yet without our best player?
Danny: Hearst was able to beat us because we’d been coasting for so long that the team got complacent.
Mia: In that case, we need to whip them into shape! I think it’s time we introduce them to some REAL workouts. Mia-style!
Danny: Do you really think you can get the football team back in peak condition, Mia?
Mia: Of course! The jocks did so much to help the cheer squad prep for the showdown with Hearst. It’s time for us to return the favor. But I’ll tell you right now, it’s not going to be easy!
Part 3
Mia: You want me to whip the football team into shape? Let’s get started.
- Level Ezra
- Level a Jock
- Level a Jock
Mia: All right listen up! Our opponents in the first round of the playoffs are the Ironside High Elephants.
Danny: They have a ton of massive players and like to run the ball straight at you, so our focus today is weight training!
Mia: Do EXACTLY as I say, and you’ll be ready to take on the toughest team in no time!
You watch as Mia marshals the football team in exercises, having the players lift each other, cheerleading style!
Ezra: Uff! You guys are REALLY heavy!
By the end of the practice, the team trudges off the field, drained.
Ezra: That was the hardest I’ve ever worked out…
Mia: But do you feel good?
Ezra: I feel great!
Rewards
- 139 XP
Later that week…
Danny: Hey, Julian! Ready to watch tonight’s game? The team is looking great!
Julian: Sorry, Danny… I don’t think I can make it.
Danny: You… you’re not going to watch?
Julian: I… I’ve got an appointment with my physical therapist tonight.
Julian walks off, slumping into his crutches.
Danny: …
That night, your fans pack the stadium as your school hosts Ironside High in the first round of the state playoffs! Down on the sidelines, Mia brings the football team into a huddle before kickoff.
Mia: You’ve worked your tails off all week! You’ve got what it takes to stand up to these bruisers! Now gimme a W! Gimme an I! Gimme an N! What’s that spell?!
Ezra: Win!
The team cheers and heads out onto the field! Ezra pulls you aside.
Ezra: Hey, Danny, we’re forgetting one thing. We still need a running back to replace Julian. I was going to ask Julian who he thought would be best… but he couldn’t make it. Who do YOU think we should start?
Part 4
Ezra: Who should start at running back in Julian’s place?
- Ezra
- A Level 8+ Classmate Except Julian (Emily)
The game kicks off! On Ironside High’s first play, they run the ball straight at your team…
Payton: Oh no! Can our defense hold?
Mia: It sure can! Look! We just tackled their running back behind the line of scrimmage!
Payton: Yeah! Way to go, team!
Danny: Now it’s our turn on offense!
Ezra: Ironside’s defense is tough. You sure you’re ready for this, Emily?
Emily: I was born ready! Let’s go!
Time - 12 hours
The game grinds on, rainfall turning the field to sludge. Every play, the two teams slam into each other in a grueling test of strength.
Ezra: We’re down 10-6, and there’s only a minute left! How are we going to get a touchdown?
Emily: Just get me the ball! I can do this!
Your team lines up with the clock winding down. Ironside’s massive defenders bunch up front, ready to swarm to the ball.
Ezra: Everyone get ready!
The plays starts, and the quarterback sweeps back! Emily takes the handoff and storms forward…
Emily: Oof!
Payton: Oh no! Emily is going down!
Mia: Not quite… it’s time to see if those exercises we did have paid off!
Suddenly, the defenders go flying as Emily lets out a roar and breaks free from the pack!
Mia: Woo hoo! Go Emily!
Emily runs it all the way to the endzone!
Mia: We did it! We’re into the next round of the playoffs!
Rewards
- 139 XP
After the game, your school’s players and fans celebrate the win in the parking lot!
Autumn: Awesome win, everyone!
Ezra: It was all Emily… and Mia’s training! Personally, I can’t believe we won without Julian.
Autumn: Yeah…
As your friends joke around, you and Wes notice Autumn gloomily walking off by herself.
Wes: Autumn doesn’t look too good. We should probably talk to her.
Part 5
Wes: Let’s see what’s up with Autumn
- Danny
- Wes
- Autumn
Danny: Autumn! Where are you going?
Autumn: Uh, I think I’m just going to head home early.
Wes: Look, we’re not gonna ask you what’s wrong.
Autumn: …
Wes: Wait… are you… crying?
Time - 14 hours
Wes: I’m sorry, Autumn. Julian means a lot to all of us, but I know you two are especially close.
Autumn: I just don’t get it… how can everyone just keep going on like everything is totally normal? Julian is actually planning on leaving! I guess just watching the game today made me realize what this school would look like without him. It just wouldn’t be the same here without him! How can he just leave us… it’s selfish!
Wes: I knew he’d do this one day… I knew Julian was…
Autumn breaks down crying, and Wes holds her close.
Wes: Wait… please don’t cry. I didn’t mean it. Julian may not be my favorite person, but deep down he’s a good guy. The thing is, Autumn… when you care about someone, it means you want what’s best for them. Remember when you left ME behind so you could pursue you art? So you could do what you love?
Autumn: I remember…
Wes: It hurt so bad to say goodbye to you… but I was happy knowing you were chasing your dream.
Wes tucks a stray hair behind Autumn’s ear.
Wes: I was rooting for you, kid. I wanted the best for you, even if I couldn’t be there to see it.
Autumn: You’re… you’re right. Julian’s not being selfish… I am. To be a real friend… I have to let Julian go.
Autumn wraps Wes in a tight hug.
Rewards
- 139 XP
Mia and Ezra come up to your locker between classes.
Mia: Hey, Danny, we need to help the team prepare for the next round of the playoffs.
Ezra: It’s an away game against the Eugene High Knights, and they’re going to be a brutal matchup.
Mia: Where Ironside was slow and powerful, Eugene’s players are all super fast and nimble. They average 63 points per game!
Danny: Whoa! How do we stop them?
Ezra: We’re going to have to seriously upgrade our defensive playbook to contain them, but that will take a brilliant field strategist.
Danny: Then we know who we need…
Part 6
Ezra: We need some help with the gameplan if we want to win without Julian.
- Sakura
- A Gamer (James)
Sakura: You want ME to redesign your playbook?
Danny: You’re the best strategist we’ve got, Sakura. You can read opponents’ tendencies and exploit them.
Nishan: The way you broke the Protoss Siege in Starcraft II is STILL the stuff of legend in the pro gaming circuit. You’re a straight-up field general!
Sakura: But I know nothing about football!
James: That’s where I come in. I play Madden on Xbox every day. I can teach you the ins and outs with that.
Danny: Unless, of course, you don’t think you’re up to the challenge…
Sakura: Of course I’m up for it! Where’s my controller?
Time - 16 hours
Later, you and Mia find Sakura completely engrossed in Madden, eyes glued to the screen. James watches in awe nearby.
Danny: Hey, how’s the playbook coming, James? Why aren’t you playing?
James: I’ve played Madden every day since I was a little kid. Sakura stomped me in just our third game. She just beat the computer on All-Pro difficulty mode, 70-0. I’ve never seen anything like it!
Sakura sets down her controller and hands you a small notebook filled with diagrams.
Sakura: Here are some preliminary thoughts. You know, football actually isn’t all that terrible. It’s a lot like a turn-based strategy game, with different units and stats.
Danny: Wow, Sakura, these plays you drew up… they’re amazing!
Sakura: Why wouldn’t they be?
Rewards
- 139 XP
Autumn: Hey, Danny.
Danny: You look in better spirits, Autumn.
Autumn: I’ve just been really impressed with how hard everyone’s been working to improve the football team. I think it would make Julian really happy to see this. What do you say we go show him how dedicated everyone is?
Danny: That’s not a bad idea!
Part 7
Autumn: Let’s show Julian all we’ve done.
- Danny
- Autumn
- Julian
You and Autumn find Julian doing curls alone in the weight room.
Julian: Oh! Danny! Autumn! Look, I know you’re mad--
Autumn: I’m not! I’m not mad anymore.
Julian: You’re not?
Autumn: Danny and I came here because we wanted to show you all the hard work the football team’s been doing… But now I realize what I really want to do is apologize…
Time - 18 hours
Julian: Apologize? To me?
Autumn: I’ve been really, really selfish. I couldn’t understand why you’d want to leave… but Danny and Wes have helped me get it. You owe it to yourself to do whatever you have to so that you can live your dream. And I want what’s best for you… even if we’ll really miss you. Because, transfer or not… you’ll always be my friend.
Julian: Autumn… you don’t know how much that means to me. I just want you to know… if I do go back to Hearst, I always want us to be… friends.
Autumn: Julian… I’m going to miss you so much.
Julian and Autumn embrace tightly.
Danny: We’re all going to miss you Julian…
Julian: …
Rewards
- 139 XP
Later that week, Mia and Sakura come up to you as class lets out for the day.
Mia: Today’s the big day, Danny.
Sakura: Are you ready to claim your destiny?
Danny: Does that mean it’s time to bus over to Eugene for the semifinal game?
Sakura: Yes. Let’s do this!
Part 8
Sakura: Put on your game face.
- A Jock Except Julian (Emily)
- A Jock Except Julian (Alex)
- A Jock Except Julian (Calivin)
The Eugene High crowd roars as the state semifinal kicks off! Sakura barks out defensive plays from the sideline.
Sakura: Thirty-one! Solid heavy! Solid heavy!
The Eugene Knights throw a deep pass… but your cornerback is able to knock the ball away!
Alex: I’m the best corner in the game! When you try me, that’s the result you’re gonna get!
Calivin: Great play, Alex!
Mia: Woo! Great play!
On your next possession, Emily drops back and slings the ball… But Ezra bobbles it, and a Eugene player yanks it out of the air and runs into your end zone with the interception!
Ezra: No!
Time - 20 hours
The ref blows the whistle, ending the first half. Your team jogs into the locker room, downcast.
Mia: This isn’t good. Sakura’s plays are holding Eugene to way less than their usual score, but we’re still down by seventeen points!
Sakura: Unacceptable! There’s a way to beat them! There has to be something we’re missing!
Danny: What do we do?
Ezra: I don’t know if there’s anything we CAN do, Danny. They’re too fast and too good. …I think this game is only gonna get worse.
Rewards
- 20,000 coins
- 139 XP
Mia: Ezra’s right… it’s all over.
The whole team hangs their heads, struggling to accept the truth. A somber silence hangs over the locker room…
Calivin: If Julian were here, he’d know what to do.
Alex: But he’s not here. It’s over.
You stand up.
Danny: I refuse to see you all hanging your heads. Look how far we’ve come! We made it to the state semifinals in our first year together! That’s something anyone would be proud of! And we all got here together!
The players look around, their eyes instinctively falling on the one empty locker.
Danny: Well, almost all of us.
Ezra: Julian was smart to leave. Look at us.
Autumn: It’s not his fault that we’re losing. Going back to Hearst was the right decision for him.
Julian: Who said I’m going anywhere?
You wheel around! Julian is standing in the doorway, a slight smirk on his face.
Autumn: Julian!
Julian: Yeah, it’s me. And I’ve got something to say…
Part 9
Julian: I want to say something to you all.
- Julian
Mia: But… what are you doing here?
Julian: What do you think I’m doing? I’m here to support my teammates!
Danny: Your teammates? Does that mean…
Julian: I’ve worried a lot in my life that I was nothing more than a dumb jock… but the dumbest thing I ever thought was that I’d be better off at Hearst. THIS is where my friends are. This is where my team is. And no scouts, no spotlights, no scholarships can change that.
Julian exchanges a knowing look with Autumn.
Julian: And it took a very special friend to get that through my thick skull. But now I’m here to help… if you’ll have me.
Sakura: It’s too late. We’re facing insurmountable odds. Besides, you’re still hurt.
Julian: Sure, I can’t put on a jersey… but I can put on a headset. Sakura’s new plays are brilliant… but she doesn’t know our team like I do. The team isn’t made of robots or video game characters… it’s made of people. People I know! I can help take our game plan to the next level!
Julian heads over to a whiteboard and starts drawing up a play.
Sakura: This… this actually makes a lot of sense. Let’s do this!
Julian: Our season isn’t over just yet!
Time - 22 hours
Julian and Sakura feverishly draw schemes on a whiteboard while the rest of the team crowds around them.
Ezra: Back up, back up! Give them space!
Sakura: I’ve tried that alignment, but their cornerback can close that gap in 1.4 seconds!
Julian: That’s why we pull the tight end for a block!
Sakura: Leaving the quarterback clear for a throw! It’s genius!
Danny: It sounds like they’re making progress!
Autumn: Between Sakura’s brilliant strategy and Julian’s insane football IQ, I think they’re gonna have some ideas that high school football’s never seen before!
Rewards
- 22,000 coins
- 139 XP
The teams run out onto the Eugene High field for the second half! Julian, Sakura, and Mia watch intensely from the sidelines.
Sakura: Down seventeen points in enemy territory with just two quarters to go? You really think you can back up all that big talk in there?
Julian: I think we’ve got a shot. Because I believe in my teammates.
The ref blows the whistle to start the half. The Eugene High kicker jogs up to the tee… and kicks off!
Part 10
Julian: The game’s not over yet, but we’ll need the comeback of the century to pull this off!
- Julian
- Ezra
- A Level 8+ Jock (Emily)
The crowd is deafening as your team receives the kick! Emily breaks a tackle… but is taken down at the 25. Julian and Sakura talk hurriedly, then send the quarterback out with the play call.
Julian: All right, let’s make things happen…
Time - 19 hours
Your team marches down the field on its first possession of the half…
Sakura: Let’s call a fly sweep.
Julian: To the weak side.
Sakura: My thoughts exactly.
The quarterback takes the snap and immediately hands the ball off as Emily darts across the backfield!
Julian: Go, Emily! Run!
Mia: Emily is almost in the endzone!
Payton: But I don’t think Emily sees that defender!
In the nick of time, Emily hurdles over the defender, flipping into the endzone for the score!
Emily: Whoaaa!
Ezra: Touchdown!
Julian: That’s going on the highlight reel!
Sakura: Nice work not messing that up, Emily, but we’ve got a lot more catching up to do.
Rewards
- 139 XP
The game continues, until…
Mia: I’m so nervous! Only two seconds left, and we’re still down by three points!
Sakura: We’re just barely in range for a game-tying field goal. It’s a long one, but we have no choice. Danny, let’s send in our kicker.
Part 11
Sakura: It all comes down to this, Send in our kicker.
- Sakura
- Julian
- A Level 9+ Classmate Except Ezra (Alex)
As Alex jogs out onto the field to a chorus of boos, Julian confronts Sakura on the sideline…
Julian: Why did you call a field goal?!
Sakura: We have to force overtime!
Julian: Look around! Our guys are exhausted from chasing the Eugene players all day! We’ll get steamrolled in overtime! You play to win, not to tie!
Sakura: Are you nuts? A field goal, even at this range, has the highest statistical rate of success!
Julian: Football isn’t just about stats, Sakura! It’s about people! It’s about heart, and it’s about knowing the right call in your gut.
Sakura: Yeah, and what about your brain? I made the call, Julian. Alex is already out there, about to keep our season alive.
Out on the field, your team lines up. The quarterback gets on one knee a few yards back, ready to hold the ball for Alex’s kick. Julian watches Sakura storm off, then catches the quarterback’s eye from the sideline and signals… the quarterback nods.
Julian: Let’s do this.
Time - 21 hours
The Eugene High crowd screams at the top of their lungs, the racket ringing in your ears. Alex steps back several paces for the kick. The quarterback meets Alex’s eyes and nods.
Alex: …
Alex runs toward the quarterback, ready to kick… but at the last second, the QB scoops up the ball and runs around the side!
Sakura: What?! A fake?! That wasn’t the call!
The quarterback sprints sideways down the field as the bewildered Eugene defense closes in…
Julian: Here we go!
The quarterback chucks the ball deep… right into Alex’s arms!
Alex: I got it!
Mia: I can’t believe it! Touchdown! We won!
Julian: YEAAAAAH! State finals, here we come!
Rewards
- 21,000 coins
- 139 XP
Back at your school, your whole student body cheers as the team bus pulls up!
Nishan: That was more epic than the entire Lord of the Rings saga combined… PLUS The Hobbit!
Wes: Way to wait until the last second, guys. And Julian, that was a nice play call on the fake field goal there.
Julian: Thanks! It was definitely all about Alex’s catch, though…
Sakura stomps through the wild crowd and gets in Julian’s face.
Sakura: What was that, anyway?! You cancelled my call?
Wes: Relax, Sakura. Julian’s call worked, didn’t it?
Sakura: I thought we were a team…
Payton whistles loudly!
Payton: Party at my place, right now!
Julian: A party? We’ve got only a week until the finals…
Payton: Aw, take it easy, Julian! Just get the whole team over to my house. I’ll get everything set up!
Part 12
Payton: Bring the whole team to my house! I’ve got big plans!
- Payton
- Julian
As you walk up to Payton’s house…
Danny: Julian, smile a bit! We’d given up until you came back. We’re in the finals!
Julian: I know, it’s just… this party. Isn’t this the exact kind of thing that got us in trouble before the playoffs.
Julian pushes the door open and steps inside Payton’s enormous foyer.
Payton: SURPRISE!
Julian: What is all this?!
Time - 23 hours
In the living room, an enormous home theater screen displays paused game film, and the whole football team awaits you eagerly from rows of chairs.
Julian: What… what is this?
Payton: It’s a party! A film session party, that is! Like you said, Julian, we only have a week to prepare for the state finals, so we might as well prepare in style! There’s a ton of soda in the fridge, and all sorts of gourmet snacks in the--
Julian: Payton… this is amazing. Thank you.
Payton: Autumn helped.
Autumn: There are gonna be tons of college scouts at the state finals, so we’ve gotta make sure we’re the best we can possibly be, don’t we?
Danny: Absolutely.
Julian: You guys are the greatest. I knew I made the right decision staying here. And I’m here for good, win or lose.
Rewards
- 23,000 coins
- 139 XP
As the strategy party goes on…
Julian: You can see here that on running plays…
Nishan: Whoa, whoa, hold on! I just got a Twitter alert! The other state semifinal game just ended.
Payton: So who’s our opponent in the final?
Nishan: Take a wild guess.
Julian: Just as I’d hoped… …it’s Hearst High!
You school is facing your archrival in the state football final! Who will emerge victorious? Find out in the next quest!