《Soccer System: All the Skills, One Player!》 Chapter 1 01 - My Journey Back in Time In the vast and vibrant universe of sports, no other is as democratic, passionate, magical, and chaotic than the soccer. You don''t need much to play it, just a ball, or something that looks like one, and a place to imagine the goal.Ah, soccer! The magic of the dazzling dribbles, the 90th-minute comeback goals, and the screams of the fans that make any stadium shake. From its earliest days, when the British played during breaks in their factory shifts, to the present day, when the best players in the world take to the most famous pitches on the planet, soccer has always been an irresistible mix of talent, improvisation, and sheer dedication. Decades ago, there was Pel¨¦, the king of soccer, who took the sport to a new level with his quick dribbling, spectacular goals, and a charisma that transcended borders. More recently, we''ve seen Zico, the first player with surgical precision in his passes and free kicks. Also Ronaldinho Ga¨²cho, who, with his joy in his legs and his magic with the ball, turned football into a spectacle of pure art. At the beginning of the millennium, the greatest rivalry in history was born. Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, two true scoring machines whose statistics would impress even the most skeptical critics: more than 800 goals each, hundreds of assists, and two collections of titles that would make any museum jealous. Between the astronomical numbers and the memorable plays, soccer has become a true global spectacle, the greatest of all sports, uniting people of all ages, genders and nationalities in a continuous celebration with the right to scream, sweat and tears. But behind the many stars who shine in the world''s stadiums, there are millions of young dreamers who believe, day after day, that they could be the next to have their lives changed by this sport. Among those millions, there was once a Japanese boy. Just one among many. His name? Lucas Tanaka, the son of an American father and a Japanese mother. Lucas grew up listening to stories about Pele, admiring Ronaldinho''s dribbling on various YouTube videos, and trying to imitate Cristiano Ronaldo''s mythological goals. In school games or on the municipal field, he played with the same joy as his idols, dreaming, like so many others, of one day becoming part of this glorious history called football. In Japan, the country where Lucas Tanaka was born and raised, people also loved soccer. It was a sport that was greatly admired, and throughout his childhood, Lucas Tanaka was praised for his skill and dedication to soccer. However, when he reached the age of 18 and decided not to go to university or a preparatory course, dreaming of finding a place in one of the Japanese national league teams, the J-LEAGUE, the people around him, the same ones who had previously congratulated him for all his efforts, began to judge him. These people said that Lucas was wasting his life on a "stupid" dream and that he should focus on a path that would be safer and more stable for him and his family. That same day, not feeling up to going to the city park to work out, Lucas Tanaka sat down in front of the old TV in his room, turned on the sports channel, and started watching. As it happened, a sixteen-year-old boy was making his debut for Barcelona FC. The boy was thinner and shorter than Lucas Tanaka, but there he was, in the center of world soccer. So Lucas decided that society was right about his dream and gave in to social pressure. "It''s too late..." Lucas simply couldn''t have imagined that he would end up as an almost thirty-year-old single man living in a tiny apartment in Tokyo. "Hey, Tanaka, did you finish that design I asked you to do?" His boss asked routinely, several times a day. "Yes, boss. It''s in your e-mail." Instead of becoming a soccer player, Tanaka went to business school. After High School, he found work in a design firm and had to adapt to keep from getting fired. So his life became a loop of monotonous days, working every day until after hours in a gray office, surrounded by piles of papers and disapproving looks. One cold evening, after leaving the office late, Lucas Tanaka stopped at a convenience store to buy something to eat. *Grrrrr* His stomach rumbled loudly. "Easy, easy..." Lucas stroked his stomach as if there really was a monster inside. When he entered the convenience store, the characteristic bell rang, but the clerk didn''t even look at him, as he seemed to be concentrating. Lucas then went to the instant noodle aisle and began to analyze which of the many flavors he would choose this time. He had already tried all the flavors, even the strangest ones. The store was so empty and quiet that Victor could hear what the clerk at the counter was watching. "Honestly, this is one of the most impressive finals I''ve ever seen. Mbapp¨¦ is only 24, and this is his third goal. Ladies and gentlemen, I may be jumping the gun, but it looks like we''re witnessing the birth of a football legend," the narrator said. "Sir...?" the salesman asked. Suddenly, Lucas found himself unconsciously standing in front of the counter with a randomly flavored instant noodle in one hand. Unbeknownst to him, he had been captivated by the soccer game playing on the television next to the cashier. The cashier looked on with a puzzled expression, and Lucas quickly handed the noodles to the young man to pick up. As he did so, Lucas peered around the inside of the counter again, trying to catch a glimpse of the game. "Sir, that''ll be 120 yen." "Ah, yes..." Lucas took some coins out of his pocket and began to count. He was a poor worker; he didn''t have much money. Nevertheless, he found a 1000 yen coin, which he handed to the young clerk. Lucas'' attention soon returned to the soccer game. "Excuse me for asking, young man. But that game you''re watching... Who''s playing?" "Um... This one? France and Argentina. It''s the recorded final of the 2022 World Cup. I like to watch that game sometimes." Lucas looked at the scoreboard. It was 3-3 after 119 minutes. The young player Mbapp¨¦ was shining for France with 3 goals. Lucas Tanaka left the convenience store with a bitter taste in his mouth, holding the bag of instant noodles in one hand and the change and receipt in the other. "World Cup 2022... I was 21 at the time, but I''d already given up watching soccer. That explains why I don''t remember the game." The year in question was 2031, almost 10 years after the 2022 World Cup. It was impossible for Lucas not to feel nostalgic, and then to feel the mixture of frustration, disappointment, and anger that always came over him when he remembered the dreams he had given up. Adjusting the scarf around his neck to protect himself from the freezing wind, Lucas tried to shake those tumultuous thoughts away. But the 3-3 scoreline of a World Cup final still echoed in his mind, like a cruel reminder of the dreams he had given up. It was every man''s dream to be in the position the young French player had been in, and Lucas wondered what his life would have been like if he had followed his passion for football. ''Instead, I''m stuck in an endless cycle of gray days in an office that seems to be slowly sucking away my soul... I think I''d do it differently.'' Walking through the streets, Lucas came upon a narrow alley lit only by a flickering streetlight. Normally, he would have changed his route just in case, but then he heard a muffled sound, something between a scream and a desperate whisper. Then, under the flickering light of the lamppost, he saw a scene that made his heart skip a beat. A hooded man was holding a long-haired woman against the wall. His dirty hand covered her mouth as he muttered something inaudible near her neck. The woman obviously tried to break free. But the man was stronger, holding her by the wrists. ''An abuser!'' Lucas didn''t want any trouble. He had enough trouble in his own life. But something inside him wouldn''t let him just ignore the situation. He always avoided conflict, always took the easy way out, always let his boss take credit for his designs, but, that night, something changed. "Hey!" he shouted. The hooded man abruptly turned his head in Lucas'' direction, and the woman used the distraction to try to break free. With no luck, the man pulled her back violently. "Who are you? Her boyfriend?" The man growled. Lucas swallowed. He didn''t have a good physique for fighting, but he couldn''t back down now either. "It doesn''t matter! Leave her alone!" The man smiled bitterly and let go of only one of the woman''s arms. "Are you going to stop me?" he asked, pulling a knife from his jacket pocket. Lucas clenched his fist, gripping the grocery bag tightly. "Yes, I will." The man then clucked his tongue, let go of the woman, and moved quickly forward with the knife. "You don''t know who you''re messing with!" the attacker shouted. A shiver ran down Lucas'' spine as he saw the man run toward him with the knife in his hand, but with a scream he didn''t know where it came from, Lucas raised the arm holding the bag and threw it with all his might at his attacker. The plastic bag broke in midair, and the package flew toward the attacker like an improvised projectile, hitting the man in the face. It was enough to disorient him for a moment. Taking advantage of the distraction, Lucas lunged forward and punched the man with all the force he could muster. He felt pain as his fingers struck the hooded man''s jaw. Fortunately, the blow was strong enough to knock the attacker to the ground. For a moment, everything seemed to freeze. The woman, frightened and still leaning against the wall, stared at Lucas with wide eyes, barely believing what he had done. The man on the floor was stunned, but when his eyes met Lucas'', an expression of fear and amazement appeared on his face. Lucas didn''t understand why the man was afraid until he felt a stabbing pain in his stomach. He looked down to see the knife buried in his stomach, blood seeping through his clothes. Shock overcame his body, and he staggered backwards, his knees weak. "Shit, shit, shit!" The man on the ground took the opportunity to get up and run. Lucas tried to yell at him not to run, but his voice wouldn''t come out. The next thing he knew, he felt dizzy and fell backwards. The woman ran over to him and shouted something, but her words sounded far away, muffled, as if he were underwater. "Hang on!" she cried as her trembling hands pressed down on the knife, trying to stop the bleeding. "It''s going to be okay, just hang on! Help me! Please, someone!" The cold of the night enveloped Lucas, but he could barely feel it. He felt numb, unable to focus on anything but the pain and the desperate face of the woman trying to help him. She was very beautiful. Soon Lucas heard the sound of hurried footsteps, alarmed voices, and the sound of sirens in the distance. He tried to focus on those voices. It was no use. Everything was slipping away. The surrounding darkness quickly engulfed everything. Suddenly, everything was silent. The world around him seemed to stop, and Lucas felt like he was floating. It was a strange, almost comforting sensation, as if he was being pulled out of his body. Then he heard an emotionless voice in his head. It seemed to come from everywhere and nowhere. [The ability of has been granted.] [ unlocked.] [The ability has granted you the ability .] [ unlocked.] [The ability has given you the ability .] [ unlocked]. [The skill has given you the skill .] [ unlocked]. [The skill has given you the skill .] [ unlocked]. [Thanks to the divine effect of , death will no longer be a problem for you.] Lucas tried to understand what was happening, but his mind was foggy. The pain was gone, replaced by a strange feeling of relief. He was no longer cold, but warm. The darkness became complete, and Lucas fell into it, lost in an infinite void. When Lucas opened his eyes again, he was no longer in the partially dark street, nor did he hear sirens. He was in a completely different place. It was a vast field of green grass. The sky above was a deep blue, without a single cloud. S§×ar?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. "Tanaka! Cross for me!" A voice shouted. Then Lucas heard a sound, a *thump*, and something touched his feet. As soon as he looked down, he realized that what had touched him was a ball, a soccer ball. Apparently, for some reason, he was in the middle of a soccer game. Raising his head again, Lucas looked ahead and saw the young Tsuyoshi Nishida, a childhood friend of his, but the strangest thing was that Nishida seemed to be in his sixteenth year and this frightened Lucas more than anything else. He remembered it well. Nishida had become a world-famous player after being spotted by a scout from a big team in England. Chapter 2 02 - Sixteen Again! When Lucas Tanaka looked down at his feet and saw the ball, he shook his head, not understanding what was happening. He raised his head to see Tsuyoshi Nishida still running with one arm raised, indicating that he wanted to receive the pass.Lucas lifted his foot, instinctively wanting to pass the ball to Nishida, but soccer is a fast-paced sport that requires sharp decision-making, and there''s usually not much time to think on the field. Just as Lucas was about to kick the ball, an opponent suddenly appeared and, with impressive speed, this player glided across the field and made a perfect, clean run to steal the ball from Lucas. Lucas'' fall was sudden. The trolley took the ball from him, but it also knocked him down. But the tackle wasn''t, and the opponent didn''t bother to help him. Instead, the boy got up and started running quickly with the ball, setting up a counterattack. Lucas tried to get up quickly, but the pain in his heel stopped him. Nishida, returning from the attack, was the one to offer a hand to help him up. "Tanaka, why didn''t you give me the pass?" Nishida asked as he helped him to his feet. Lucas didn''t know what to say, nor did he understand what was going on. "I''m sorry, I hesitated..." Nishida gave Lucas a weak pat on the back. "It''s okay, I''ll be there next time. Just pass it to me and I''ll score." But there was no next time. For the next few minutes, Lucas tried to keep up with the pace of the game, but each move seemed more difficult than the last. His mind was foggy, and he simply couldn''t process the surrounding events clearly. He tripped over the ball a few times and fell, and his legs felt heavy and uncoordinated. "Tanaka, what''s happening to you?" asked Nishida during a brief stoppage in play after a foul. "You''re our playmaker. If you can''t connect passes, we can''t score." His friend''s worried look only added to Lucas'' confusion. "I... I don''t know," Lucas mumbled, trying to wipe the sweat from his brow. Over the next few minutes, the ball stopped coming to Lucas. His team''s players began to make more runs down the flanks, trying to get into the attacking half. It was then that the team''s coach, Mr. Yamamoto, noticed the situation. With a serious look on his face, he signaled for Lucas to leave the field. Lucas slowly walked to the side of the field, greeted the teammate who would be replacing him, then the coach, and sat down on the bench in frustration. With a towel over his head, he took a moment to take a deep breath and try to understand what had happened. The strange transition from a near-death state to this familiar but confusing scenario was beyond what an ordinary human mind could easily process. He knew something extraordinary had happened. Lucas looked around. The sounds of the game, the shouts of the players, the people, everything was too real to be a dream. He closed his eyes, trying to clear his vision and his mind. The towel over his head isolated him at least a little from the stares of the surrounding people. ''Why? Why is this happening to me?'' he asked himself, looking down at his hands. His hands weren''t chubby, nor were they full of wrinkles like before, and looking at his own body, he could easily see that he was younger, much younger. It was clear that he had somehow rejuvenated himself or rather gone back in time. Lucas then raised his head and began to pay more attention to his surroundings. There were only a few people on the bench. He was one of the few players there. The coach, Mr. Yamamoto, a man in his fifties, was giving instructions to both teams. Of course, it was a practice game of eleven against eleven, but the field was smaller than a normal soccer field. It was a reduced soccer field, in other words, the school field. Several times a week they practiced on the school field, so this could have been any day, but there was something different. On the field, the players gave their all and seemed focused. Something important was about to happen. However, it was impossible for Lucas to easily remember such a normal situation from his youth, and it would be strange to suddenly ask for the date in question. Therefore, it was useless for him to try to find out what day it was at this moment. The same was true for the mysterious reason why he was back. If there was a reason, Lucas felt it was to play soccer, otherwise why on earth would he come back in the middle of a game? Lucas clenched his fist, stood up, tossed his towel aside and said: "Mr. Yamamoto, can I come back in?" "Tanaka, of course you can''t come in, you just..." When Yamamoto turned to look at Lucas as he replied, Lucas could tell just by looking into Yamamoto''s eyes that something had changed. At that moment, Yamamoto stopped halfway through his answer, looked straight ahead, crossed his arms and continued: "Okay, but get a vest. You''ll be on the reserve team." "Yes, sir." Lucas quickly grabbed the vest, eager to get back into the game. The sun was still high and strong, and his heart was beating faster. The reserve team was struggling to keep up with the first team, but the score was 4-2. Lucas took a deep breath, and when he finally took his first step onto the field, everything around him stopped, and the same voice he had heard before echoed in his mind. [The skill of has evolved into ]. [ unlocked]. [To become a champion, you must increase your Star Level.] [Your current Star Level is 0]. [Complete missions in the to increase your Star Level and earn other rewards]. [The rewards will increase with each level you reach]. [The skill is activated.] [The mission "The first step of the second chance" has been granted]. [Do you want to know the purpose of this mission?] Lucas, still stunned by what had happened, blinked twice, looked around, saw that time had stopped, and nodded without a choice. The words were gone from his mouth. [Main Mission: The First Step of a Second Chance Description: This is a practice game before an important school championship. The starters for the first championship game will be decided in this scrimmage, and you need to convince the coach that you are a good option. Winning is an important step in this process. Objective: Win this scrimmage. Rewards: S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. +10 Star Points +1 Loot Box.] Chapter 3 03 - My The sun was beating down relentlessly on the field that early afternoon. From the heat and the sound of cicadas in the bushes not far from the field, Lucas Tanaka could easily tell that it was summer.So if, as the mission description stated, this was a practice game to determine who would start in the first league game, then the league in question could only be the Chubu Summer League, which used school vacations to promote a major league that included most of the teams in the Chubu region of Japan. The Chubu Summer League wasn''t as famous as the Kanto Summer League, but it was certainly important. Lucas took a deep breath, feeling the tension in his muscles and the sweat dripping down his forehead. The vest he wore now seemed to weigh more than it should, carrying with it a series of dreams and burdens whose weight he hadn''t felt at sixteen in the past. He looked at his teammates, some waving at him in encouragement, others simply focused on the ball. Everyone was aware that this was a crucial opportunity, and everyone wanted to be in the starting lineup. Coach Yamamoto''s whistle blew sharply, breaking the momentary silence and signaling the resumption of the game. Lucas was a midfielder, so he saw several players advance in front of him when the ball was released. They were the strikers. Lucas'' heart quickened as the ball and his team advanced toward the opposing defense. His legs moved almost automatically because his eyes were focused. [Paying attention to the ball is important, but it can also be good to pay attention to the surrounding players.] ''That voice again...'' Lucas thought. ''And it''s still telling me how to play soccer? Who do you think you are?'' [I am C¨¦os, your assistant skill.] Lucas was still very confused by what was happening to him, but he didn''t have time for more questions because his first opportunity came when one of the team''s players lost control of the ball. Without hesitation, he charged forward and intercepted a desperation pass. The crowd, made up of a few schoolmates on the railings around the field, let out a murmur of excitement. Lucas was known to be a good player at school, so it was somewhat normal for people to get excited when he touched the ball. Quickly, another player from the first team rushed towards Lucas to cover his teammate''s mistake, but Lucas almost automatically turned his body to protect the ball from his opponent. As a result, the first-team defender ran right past him, leaving a wide corridor in front of Lucas. "I''ll stop you, Tanaka!" shouted Nishida, suddenly appearing behind Lucas. S§×arch* The n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Nishida was a natural center forward. It was unusual for him to be so far back, running behind a midfielder. This was just a small proof that the first team players knew how dangerous Lucas could be. Nishida''s teammates were also quick to try to close the gap created by Lucas'' dribbling. [It''s wise to pass the ball.] "You don''t have to tell me! I know how to play soccer!" Lucas shouted. He quickly raised his head to look for a teammate in a better position. He saw Junpei open on the right wing. It was a perfect opportunity. Lucas fired a powerful shot, sending the ball high into the air. The sound of the shot echoed across the field, and for a moment, all eyes were on the sky. The ball rose so high that it cast a shadow against the bright sun. Junpei ran, taking advantage of the gap in the defense created by the opponent''s desperation to mark Lucas. However, Lucas clearly missed the speed and height of the pass. Junpei was supposed to receive the ball at his feet and run forward to cross the ball into the box or shoot, but Lucas'' pass was too high. Junpei even tried to head the ball from behind, but it was too high. He could barely get his head on the ball and it continued on its way, landing outside the box. Lucas paused, gasping as he watched the wasted opportunity. Junpei raised his hand in an apologetic gesture, but Lucas knew it was his fault. He had put too much force into the pass, and now the team had to regroup quickly. "Hey, Tanaka, what was that you were yelling?" One of Lucas'' reserve teammates asked. Nishida stopped beside him, a little out of breath. "It was '' I know how to play soccer!'', wasn''t it? Hhahaha!" "You can''t yell that and then miss a pass, man!" Lucas put a hand to the back of his head and followed the laughter, a little embarrassed. He didn''t even realize it, but in the heat of the moment, he yelled at C¨¦os in a loud voice. The game restarted with a fullback for the first team. Lucas retreated a bit down the field, already feeling the sweat running down his face and neck. The ball was put back into play, and the opposition began to move forward. Lucas positioned himself strategically, this time following Ceo''s advice and watching his opponents'' movements more closely. When a pass was directed to the middle, he anticipated it and tried to anticipate the ball again. However, Kenji, another first team midfielder, was quicker than Lucas and kept the ball for his team. He picked up the ball and made a quick pass to the left back, who in turn made a vertical pass to the first team left winger. The play was frenetic, and most of the first team was much more in sync. It didn''t take long for the left winger to get to the top of the box, where Nishida was screaming for the ball. Nishida was a natural center forward. No matter how the ball came to him in the box, he would find a way to finish. He was too dangerous not to be marked, but that wasn''t Lucas'' job. Lucas trusted the work of his team''s defenders and prepared for the counterattack. But when the ball was crossed, it didn''t go towards the penalty area, but to the halfway line, where Kenji was waiting. The gleam in Kenji''s eyes revealed his clear intention: he was ready to finish the job. From that moment on, every movement on the field seemed to be in slow motion for Lucas, who, even from a distance, was able to capture every detail with astonishing clarity. Kenji took a firm step forward and his right foot met the ball in mid-air. He sent it towards the goal with frightening power and precision. The ball sliced through the air like an arrow, or rather a spear, traveling at high speed as it spun around its own axis. The opposing goalkeeper tried to reach the ball, stretching as far as he could, but there was no way. The ball had a predetermined trajectory that took it straight into the upper right corner of the goal. The unmistakable sound of the net rattled across the pitch, followed by a brief moment of absolute silence. Then an explosion of cheers and applause swept the field, the celebration of a magnificent goal, with even the reserve players praising Kenji. Lucas stood still, unresponsive. At that moment, a movie played in Lucas'' head, literally the movie of his life. Kenji''s goal pushed Lucas even further away from his dream. If he couldn''t be a starter and excel in the summer league, he would never go to be a professional, just like in his previous life. [The hidden function of the skill has been unlocked]. [The skill of has been granted]. [ unlocked]. [The player Kenji Nakamaru has demonstrated the skill . Do you want to check the copying conditions?] Chapter 4 04 - Copy Conditions [The player Kenji Nakamaru has demonstrated the skill . Do you want to check the copying conditions?]This message flashed in front of Lucas''s eyes, and even though he had become accustomed to these idiosyncrasies, he was still startled by the possibility of being able to copy the skill of one of his teammates. It was an unexpected stroke of luck. Still, Lucas remained sane and rational. With a conscious effort, he pushed aside the initial excitement and concentrated on the message as everyone returned to their positions after Kenji''s goal. Yes, I want to check the copying conditions. He agreed thoughtfully, his heart racing with anticipation. Almost immediately, a new message appeared. [Skill Copy Conditions : Execute a first shot on goal in front of player Kenji Nakamaru]. ''In other words, you want me to take revenge for him scoring in front of me.'' Lucas took a deep breath and understood the purpose. The task seemed simple in theory, but, in practice, it was a different story. Kenji was a clever midfielder who positioned himself very well, was solid defensively and also shot well from outside the box. It would have been a bit tricky to put him in one place on the pitch and just have him watch me kick a first touch into the goal. However, the opportunity and curiosity of learning a new skill without having to practice it for months was too tempting to ignore. When the ball returned to the center of the field and play returned, Lucas looked at Kenji. He had to keep an eye on the movement of the opposing team and the formation of his own team. The right opportunity would come. He just had to be ready to take it. The fast pace of the game didn''t slow down when the match resumed. There was no room for distractions, and Lucas remained focused. The ball circulated between the reserve players, and Lucas kept moving so the defense wouldn''t think he was a threat. Every touch, every pass, was a potential opportunity. He had to be in the right place at the right time. And then the opportunity came. The ball was passed to him, and he took it and turned his body to move up the field. The opposition tried to surround him, and Kenji seemed to stop him. Lucas played the ball to a teammate on his right who was passing. S§×arch* The ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. The ball slid quickly along the ground, and this time the pass was accurate, but Lucas'' teammate had no room to advance and dropped the ball back into midfield. Still, Lucas'' forward pass alone was enough to draw the first team defense back a bit. They moved forward a bit when the ball came back to them, but Lucas didn''t retreat to his side of the pitch. He pushed forward. In doing so, he forced his team''s attackers to stay back, as well as his first team''s defenders. This was a dangerous thing to do because it was essential to get back to score, but it also created a huge gap between the first team defense and the midfield. When the reserve team kicked a ball to the right point, Kenji would look back and see more reserve team players in their backfield than his own team. This was absurd. With a quick glance at Kenji, who was the only one in the starting midfield who had stayed back, Lucas ran forward with the forwards. The reserve team''s right winger made a quick pass to the holding midfielder, who was advancing alongside the right winger. The holding midfielder was basically responsible for coordinating the team''s possession. In the first team, this was Kenji Nakamaru, while Lucas Tanaka was more of a No. 8, but in the reserve team, the holding midfielder was Masamitsu, a smaller kid and not as skilled as Kenji. Masamitsu received the ball but couldn''t hold it for long, so he passed it back to the speedy right winger, completing a triangle. The right winger ran to the sideline, giving the reserves time to fill the entire penalty area. The scenario was almost identical to Kenji''s goal, with one exception. However, this was also a classic crossing move, so the first team players had no idea that the scenario of Kenji''s goal was about to be repeated. What made this different from Kenji''s goal was the confidence of the player on the edge of the box to cross the ball exactly into the crescent. Lucas didn''t know all the players in the school''s soccer club, let alone have friendships with all of them, but he knew that he had the confidence of most of them because he had given goal passes to most of them. "Here!" Lucas ordered. This was something he never did, literally never, because Lucas wasn''t someone who focused on scoring goals. He wasn''t a selfish striker. But apparently the system wanted to change his nature. I need to score this goal! I have to turn this game around! The player on the edge heard the call, raised his head, and looked at his options. In the penalty area, the players were piled up, and a little behind them, they weren''t. On the halfway line, almost outside the penalty area, there was only Lucas and a few other players spread out a bit more. So he crossed for Lucas without thinking twice. "Take that, Tanaka!" The ball arced perfectly, and Lucas, his eyes fixed on the ball, swallowed dryly as he watched it head his way. He knew this was the moment he had been waiting for, the moment that could change the course of the game and, who knows, his own path to becoming a professional soccer player. As the ball flew through the air, Lucas noticed Kenji Nakamaru running towards him with his eyes fixed on him. Kenji was a good player, with a natural ability to position himself defensively, break down opponents, and shoot from outside the box. A classic No. 5. If we were to compare him to anyone, it would be Casemiro. But that didn''t matter to Lucas, who took a few steps back, adjusted his position and prepared to shoot. This was his chance, and he wasn''t going to waste it. In one fluid motion, Lucas swung his right leg back and then quickly stepped forward, kicking the ball with the instep of his right foot. The sound of the kick echoed across the pitch, a solid beat that sounded like a drum. The ball flew, cutting through the air at an impressive speed. [Copy Conditions Achieved]. [Skill of obtained]. [ unlocked]. The system''s confirmation was the icing on the cake at this point. However, the goal was yet to come. The trajectory of the ball suddenly made a curve and an effect as if it had been kicked with the last three toes, and went straight into the top corner of the goal, replicating Kenji''s feat. The sound of the ball hitting the net was like a key turning, as Lucas clenched his fist and shouted in front of Kenji: "THAT''S IT! THAT''S IT! WHAT A GOAL!" All the adrenaline and satisfaction of scoring a goal was released all at once by Lucas after so many years of not playing soccer. He couldn''t contain the joy in his heart. Chapter 5 05 - The End of the Training Game The feeling of scoring a goal was a truly unique sensation for Lucas. The happiness mixed with the accomplishment and excitement of everyone on his team was delicious. Lucas could feel his heart beating fast. He could almost taste victory, as it tasted salty from the sweat dripping down his face.The roar of celebration that echoed from his lips was an outpouring of the years of futile effort he had spent in that design office. On the soccer field, even if it was between four lines, Lucas Tanaka felt true freedom. His teammates ran toward him, their faces lit up with smiles of pure euphoria. That moment, that goal, was more than just a point on the scoreboard. It was proof that Lucas'' dreams were within reach of his hands - or rather, his feet. S§×arch* The N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. "Lucas! What a beautiful goal! Yes, yes!" shouted Mr. Yamamoto, congratulating him from the sidelines. Kenji, the player whose skill Lucas had copied, approached Lucas. "You were too smart this time." Lucas, still panting, smiled proudly: "Thank you, Kenji. It was a kick inspired by yours." "I could tell!" With the game restarted, there were only ten minutes left before the final whistle. The adrenaline was still pumping through Lucas'' veins, but he knew he had to keep a cool head and concentrate on the game. He had the system to help him. He could draw and then win. The first team players, alert, changed their strategy. Lucas began to feel the eyes of each defender on him, watching his movements with the intensity of predators watching their prey. They were his teammates, but he had the feeling they had never looked at him so hungrily. Every touch of the ball was fiercely contested, every pass a challenge to find space. This was no ordinary training session, and the other students who passed by the field after finishing their club activities that afternoon could see that. "Eh... The soccer club really works hard, right?" "During the holidays¡­ They should take it a little easier." "Didn''t you see the poster? There''s going to be a regional championship soon." "That must be why they''re working so hard." The clock seemed to speed up, the seconds turning into a relentless countdown. Lucas received the ball again and was quickly surrounded by opponents. He turned, trying to find an opening, a way forward. He made a simple touch to the right back who was advancing a bit ahead, but the ball was given back to him. This was not good. The reserves were relying on him to organize the team and keep up the aggressive pace of the game. Lucas'' eyes scanned the field looking for the best option for the next pass. He saw one of his team''s strikers advance and played the ball between two defenders, but a third defender cut the ball back and sent it to the left side. Play continued as normal. Lucas had no way of controlling the players on his team to make them play the way he wanted, but that was part of the fun of soccer. Besides, everyone was tired, and the reserve team was made up of many players who weren''t even considered part of the club; they did more training than they actually played. Still, Lucas Tanaka believed in winning. If there was a reason why he was back for this game, it was because he needed to use this game to change the course of his life, and he wasn''t going to waste this second chance. It was then that the ball, deflected by one of his team''s defenders, came back to him, slowly rolling towards him from outside the box. Normally, Lucas would dominate the ball, trying to buy himself more time to think and pass to a better-placed teammate. He was a number 8, passing was what he did. However, it was always by passing to other players that he never made a name for himself outside his own team and consequently never became a professional. The new skill he had acquired echoed in his mind... ... He knew that he could rely on this new power, and it was what secured his goal. With a sudden surge of confidence, Lucas decided to take a shot at the ball as well. He swung his leg out and hit the ball, hoping it would repeat the perfect trajectory of the first goal. This time, however, the ball deflected to the right and went wide of the goal. "What?!" Lucas shouted, scratching his head and a little embarrassed. "What''s that, Tanaka? Were you trying to kill an owl?" Tsukada, number 10 in the starting lineup, asked under his breath. Lucas had no answer and just laughed awkwardly. ''Why didn''t I get it right this time? What about my new skill?'' [The hit chance of the skill is 25%. The closer you are to the target, the higher the chance, and the farther you are, the lower the chance]. [With effort and practice, it''s possible to increase the hit probability of the skill to 50% at medium distance.] C¨¦os was merciless in his analysis. Lucas felt a pang of frustration because he thought that the hit probability of this skill was 100%. However, it also made sense that a skill like this wouldn''t have such a high hit probability, otherwise it would be too broken. Normally, he wouldn''t even be able to hit the ball the first time. "Come on, Lucas! Shake it off and let''s go!" shouted Nishida, the number 9 of the first team, to encourage him. Despite Nishida''s words of encouragement, the game remained the same for the next few minutes, and in the last minute, Nishida personally increased the score for the first team. [Final score: First Team 6 x 3 Reserve Team.] Lucas couldn''t change the pace of the game or secure victory, so he knelt on the ground and punched the turf, frustrated at failing in his first mission. ''Shit, shit, shit! Maybe if I hadn''t kicked it in the first place... No, I should have kicked it!'' [Mission "The First Step of the Second Chance" failed]. [There will be a penalty for failing a mission]. [The punishment will be...] [Daily Mission: "Effort X Reward" completed]. [Daily Mission: Effort X Reward. Description: You''re not good enough, try harder. Daily goal: 0/100 Pushups 0/100 Abs 0/100 Squats 0/10KM Run Rewards: +1 Star Point. +1 Loot Box]. Chapter 6 06 - Days that seemed so far away "Did I get a new mission because I failed another one?" Lucas asked himself, still on his knees, lamenting his defeat.Priiiii! A whistle blew from one side of the field. Everyone looked in the direction of the sound and saw Mr. Yamamoto taking his old metal whistle out of his mouth. "Please gather everyone here." Mr. Yamamoto said, gesturing with his hand for all the players to come forward. Tired and very sweaty, Lucas stood up and walked to the edge of the field where all the players of the soccer club were gathered. "Today''s practice was very good and much more intense than usual. Can any of you tell me why?" Mr. Yamamoto was the coach of the soccer club and also a physical education teacher at School Wushia, so he was very didactic in his conversations with the boys. One player raised his hand. "Is it because the summer championships are coming up?" "Very good, Kaue. I think that''s the main reason, too. Everyone on both teams was doing their best because they wanted to be in the starting lineup for the opening game of the tournament, right? I admire that about you guys. And it''s not just me..." Mr. Yamamoto pointed behind him, and there were several students from the other clubs watching them through the bars. "Wow, they''re really fast. Do you think they can do well this year?" One of the spectators commented to his friend as he turned to leave. "I don''t know much about soccer, but they seemed to be trying hard. If they show that will in the league, they''ll impress." The other replied with a shrug. Mr. Yamamoto drew a small smile on his wrinkled face. "You see? Even the other students are starting to notice how hard you work. So you should know that even those of you who don''t start in the first team in the first game will still be able to help us a lot during the championship. After all, substitutions exist in soccer to make the game more dynamic and fun." The coach, with his wise face and small eyes, looked at his students. They were all tired and worried. "I can see that you''re all waiting for something," Mr. Yamamoto said in a calm voice that cut through the silence like a knife. "I know you''re anxious to know who''s going to start the first game, but I''m going to reflect about it. It''s not the kind of thing you decide on the spur of the moment. I''m going to watch the training footage, analyze each of you, and consider not just today''s performance, but your effort, your dedication, and your tactics. You deserve that consideration." There was a collective murmur of mixed relief and a minor disappointment. Lucas felt a mixture of conflicting emotions. Part of him was relieved that there was no immediate decision, but another part longed to know the outcome. "I will send a message to each of you individually later, informing you of my decision and the reason for it," Mr. Yamamoto continued, nodding. "For now, you are dismissed. Rest, rehydrate, and prepare for Saturday. Remember, the road to victory is paved with hard work and perseverance." The players began to disperse, walking slowly toward the locker rooms. Lucas dragged himself along with them, feeling the weight of fatigue on his shoulders. He entered the locker room and began to change. Every movement seemed more difficult when he was too tired, but as a former office worker with back pain, it wasn''t that bothersome. As he walked to the school''s exit gate, Lucas saw someone standing there waiting for him. It was Nishida. "Shall we go?" Nishida asked with his usual serious face. "Yes." Lucas replied. However, Nishida noticed that Lucas'' answer seemed more automatic than usual, so he asked: "You''re still thinking about the game, aren''t you?" Lucas nodded. "Are you worried about not being in the starting lineup because you played badly today? If so, don''t worry too much. The coach will look at your performance in other training sessions and you played well when you came on at the end. You even scored a goal." "I know, but the competition in the first team midfield is very tough. Even if I played well for a few minutes, it might not be enough and..." Slap! Sear?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Suddenly, Nishida slapped Lucas'' back. "Don''t overthink it, Tanaka! Just trust..." "It''s easy to talk about being the team''s leading scorer and... Wait a minute, why do you call me by my second name and when it''s Kenji, you call him by his first name?" Lucas stopped walking and asked. Nishida gave him a puzzled look. Lucas'' question seemed to have an obvious answer, but it wasn''t obvious to Lucas. Nishida looked down and scratched the back of his head, a nervous habit. "Ah, so you forgot our promise..." Nishida began, his tone lower than usual. "Promise?" "Do you remember when we were sitting on the park field after a game a few years ago? We were talking about the names we wanted on our jerseys when we turned pro." Lucas blinked, trying to remember. The last fourteen stressful years had etched over many of his old memories, erasing most of them, but then the aforementioned memory slowly resurfaced. On that day, Lucas Nishida was laughing and dreaming far into the future. "Ah, yes..." Lucas murmured as the pieces fell into place. "I chose Tanaka because..." "Because it''s your grandfather''s name, and you said you wanted to honor him." Nishida added with a slight smile. "And I chose Nishida because, well, it''s my family name." Lucas laughed. "Sound cool? It doesn''t sound like something you would do these days." "But it''s a promise. I won''t change it until we go pro." So many years had passed since Lucas had a casual conversation with Nishida. It was too nostalgic for Lucas to walk home in the evening. He and Nishida had been close friends since they were kids, because although they had different personalities, they shared the dream of becoming professional soccer players. However, that friendship ended sooner than either of them expected, specifically after the Summer League. In Lucas'' former life, Nishida had a great championship and was second in scoring, while Lucas did what his position required and distributed passes. In the end, Nishida was selected to try out for a team in England, while Lucas Tanaka played in regional championships with Wushia High School until the end of high school. Chapter 7 06.5 - Back to the family In his former life, Lucas Tanaka wasn''t very close to his family. However, growing up and moving away from them hurt more than he could have imagined.He had a mother who ran the household. A woman with delicate features, almond eyes, and black hair. Her name was Ayumi Tanaka. Ayumi was traveling to the United States when she met Lucas'' father, John Tanaka, an American with black hair and blue eyes. John was a man of medium height, with an air of seriousness that was often intimidating, but a gentle smile that could warm anyone''s heart. Lucas also had a younger sister. Hana was her name, a bright and vibrant girl, only three years younger than Lucas, or thirteen. They had always been close, perhaps because they were close in age. Although not a family with much conflict, the Tanaka family had its challenges. John worked relentlessly at a patent office, putting in long hours to provide a stable life for his family. Ayumi, on the other hand, devoted herself to the home and the small flower shop she owned in the neighborhood. Running the flower shop took a lot out of Ayumi, often leaving her exhausted at the end of the day, so Lucas and Hana always helped her keep the house organized. Lucas grew up seeing the sacrifices his parents made. He would see his father go out early and come back late, almost always looking tired, yet trying to hide the dark circles under his glasses and his exhaustion with a forced smile. This was one of the main reasons why Lucas had so "easily" given up his dream of becoming a professional soccer player. He didn''t want to burden his parents with his decisions. "For these reasons, I need to become a professional as soon as possible and secure a salary! That way, my parents can enjoy life more!" Lucas said to himself as he stood at the door of his house. Then Lucas looked at his house again and admired it. It wasn''t an immense house, but it was the house he lived in until he moved to Tokyo to go to High School, so it brought back so many memories. He touched the doorknob in front of him, turned it, and saw his house after so long. The door creaked softly as it opened, like a welcome. He entered slowly and stood there in shock. Everything was just as he remembered it. The bright yellow walls of the foyer, the familiar smell of fresh flowers, and the cozy feeling of being home again filled his senses. However, the house seemed empty, shrouded in a silence that almost made him doubt if anyone was really there. He took a few tentative steps, listening to the muffled sound of his own shoes on the wooden floor, and began to remove his shoes. Then Lucas heard the faint sound of footsteps coming down the stairs, followed by an excited cry. "Lucas!" Hana, his sister, appeared at the top of the stairs. Her face beamed with joy. She quickly descended the stairs, skipping the last two steps to fall straight down, and excitedly approach her brother. "How many goals have you scored today? Six?! No, seven?!" she asked excitedly. Just then, Ayumi Tanaka appeared at the end of the main corridor, drying her hands with a dishcloth. She looked at her son and said, "Son, I''m glad you''re okay," she said. "Welcome back." Lucas felt an overwhelming emotion when he saw her. He blinked quickly to keep the tears from forming. The sight of his mother and sister contrasted sharply with the memories of the loneliness of his small apartment in Tokyo, where he felt so alone every night. "How are you, Mom?" he asked, his voice cracking a little. "We''re all fine, aren''t we?" replied Ayumi, looking a little worried. S§×ar?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. "It''s nothing. I''m just a little tired." Ayumi smiled proudly. "That means you''re hungry. Get out of your sweaty clothes and take a shower, then come down for dinner." Chapter 8 07 - Star Level When he got home, Lucas Tanaka took a shower and went down to the second floor, where he spent some time with Hana and Ayumi, his sister and mother, respectively. It was great for him to spend some time with them, especially as his work in Tokyo hadn''t allowed him to visit his family regularly in his past life.Lucas missed them so much that he talked to them about the whole game. Soon, Hana went to take his bath, and he was left alone with his mother. When they were alone, Ayumi looked at her son all excited and said: "Go for it! I''m sure you''ll make it!" Her face was flushed, and she seemed a little embarrassed to be saying those words out loud, but you could clearly see the smile on her face and the sparkle in her eyes. Ayumi''s words gave Lucas the strength to remain committed to his goal, which was already very different from the timeline he had followed previously. Over the years and his exhausting life in the office, Lucas Tanaka had convinced himself that his decision to give up his dream of becoming a professional footballer was something that his parents had also wanted and just hadn''t said. However, this wasn''t true. Ayumi and John had always supported him in any way they could. So when Ayumi said those words of encouragement to him, Lucas grabbed her hands, looked into her eyes and promised: "Yes, Mom! I''m going to be a starter in the league and I''m going to become a professional soccer player!" However, not everything would be easier for Lucas in his second chance. Plim! When Mr. Yamamoto''s message arrived, the content wasn''t quite what Lucas had expected. {Coach Yamamoto: Good evening, Tanaka. I hope you''re recovering well from our intense training today (21:32).} Coach Yamamoto: Unfortunately, you won''t be in the starting eleven for the first game of the summer league. You have skill and are great for your teammates, but at times you lack vision. Ideally, you should come on in the second half, when there are more gaps in the defense, so that you can get the best out of the forwards with your good passing. I hope he understands my decision and, if he thinks we''re wrong, he''ll show it when he gets on the pitch.} Lucas was shocked. Despite the poor start and the many misplaced passes, he had played a good game and managed to set up good moves. How could he not be in the starting eleven? "Is it possible that he thought I did well just because the game was at the end?" Lucas asked himself after putting his cell phone down on the nightstand next to his bed. [Yes, it''s possible. You showed a better performance during the end of the game in the reserve team than during the beginning in the first team.] said the voice in Lucas'' mind again. "You! Arghh! I''d forgotten all about you." [Do you prefer me to keep quiet during your introspections and reflections?] "Yes, I mean, no... You can be useful." Lucas said. "First, now that we''re alone, I can ask: who are you?" [As I said before: I''m C¨¦os]. "And what do you want from me?" [Nothing. I''m just another of your many abilities. C¨¦os, the God of Wisdom. I have no emotions and am driven only by purely logical calculations. I don''t care about anyone but you."] Lucas was still a little suspicious, but suddenly the memory of the knife in his chest and his mind fading came to the surface. He lowered his head and, with a melancholy tone, asked: "You, the mission windows, the fact that I''m back in time... Was all that because I died?" S~ea??h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. [Yes. Although I can''t explain the reasons, I believe that your death was the trigger for all these events.] "And who did it? Who is giving me this chance?" [...] [I don''t know how to answer that question.] "Right..." Lucas looked down at his hands. They looked so small and thin. "So, if even the God of Wisdom can''t answer me, there''s no point in wasting time thinking about these things. I need to know, C¨¦os, what my abilities are." He stood up, cheering himself up. [You currently have seven abilities. Among them are: , ...] "Is there a visual way of showing this?" [It''s possible to check all your skills visually using the skill]. "And how do I activate it? Use the skill!" Lucas tried to say the command out loud, but nothing happened. [Voice commands are unnecessary. All you have to do is will the to appear and it will."] "Wish? Ah, okay, I can try." Lucas closed his eyes, held both hands out in front of him, and imagined that the same screen he saw during the soccer match would appear in front of him. When he opened his eyes, there was the window that looked like it had come straight out of an RPG game. + === Player name: Lucas Tanaka Star Level: 1 === [Attributes] Speed: 25 Shooting: 21 Dribbling: 17 Defense: 9 Physical: 14 Passing: 22 === [Talents] Ball Control: 0 Endurance: 0 Strength: 0 Heading: 0 Scoring: 0 Vision: 0 Positioning: 0 === Mystical Skills: ; ; ; ; ; ; === Soccer Skills: + "Man, it''s no wonder I was placed as a reserve. I''m zero in talents and, calculating here, my overall is 17." With a hand to his face, Lucas said as he stared at that data window. "Also, what is this thing called ''Star Level''? I remember seeing it somewhere." [Star Level is the Champion System''s way of measuring how famous you are. You have a star, which means you''re not even an amateur player. I estimate that for you to reach the level of a low-level professional player you need 14 stars.] said C¨¦os. "What? 14? Is that serious?" [Yes. Even the worst professional players are hundreds of times better than ordinary people, even much better than normal high school kids like you]. "You tell me I''m not an amateur player and then you put me on the same level as ordinary people... You''re going to hurt me like that!" [If you want to know, in front of a professional footballer, the difference between amateur footballers and normal people doesn''t exist.] "Okay, okay. I''ve managed to understand how incredible professional footballers are." [Warning! The Daily Mission has not yet been completed! Complete it or your attributes may decrease]. "Wait, the daily mission I received at the end of the game was for today? Shit!" Lucas got out of bed quickly. "I can''t afford to lose attributes. All the ones I have are already too low!" Chapter 9 08 - Daily Mission Lucas ran out of the room, feeling a rush of adrenaline coursing through his veins. He ran down the stairs quickly, making a lot of noise.Ayumi was startled when she heard the noise. When she went to see what it was, Lucas was putting on a shoe and his jacket at the same time. "Where are you going? It''s late." She asked, a little confused. Lucas was balancing on his right leg as he tried to put the shoe on his left foot. "I''m just going to the store to get a drink to replenish my electrolytes. I''ll be right back!" Lucas said, opening the door to the house. "All right, but don''t be too long!" "Right!" The sky outside was very dark, which immediately reminded Lucas of the moment of his death. He felt a tightness in his chest. It was fear, maybe terror. But that wouldn''t stop him. "Come on, come on..." Lucas muttered to himself as his footsteps echoed down the street. He wanted to run to the local park, where he could get some exercise, and that would also cover half of the distance he needed to run. As he ran towards the park, Lucas felt the cold night wind on his face. He passed people on their way home from work, some of whom waved as he passed. And he didn''t even recognize most of these people anymore. He probably should have, but he didn''t. After all, it had been 14 years since he had been a young man again. Soon, each step seemed harder than the last and his lungs began to burn from lack of air. But it was almost 10 p.m. and he couldn''t stop, not when he could actually lose attributes. S~ea??h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. "Man, I really screwed up this time..." he thought as he adjusted his pace and tried to conserve his energy. It took longer than expected, but Lucas arrived at the local park. It was empty and identical to the place he remembered. The local park was on the edge of a forest, so there were a lot of trees and the place was pretty empty at night. Fortunately, the training area was right at the entrance. Lucas didn''t have to go deeper into the park to complete his mission. The squats and sit-ups were relatively easy for Lucas. He didn''t like to brag about it, but he was more athletic than most boys his age. The pushups were the real challenge. Soccer had made his legs strong since he was a kid, but soccer didn''t help him develop strength in his upper limbs at all, so Lucas was quite skinny. He had to break the pushups into sessions, twenty at a time, and even then it was very difficult. By the end, Victor''s arms were shaking, and he was exhausted. But C¨¦os didn''t let him forget the main goal. [You have 48 minutes left before the daily mission fails.] Immediately after finishing his push-ups, Lucas had to run back to his house. Each mile seemed like an eternity. He kept the system window open to monitor the distance he was running in real time. A professional runner could cover 5 kilometers in about 25 minutes, maintaining an extraordinary pace of 5 minutes per kilometer. Lucas'' greatest attribute was speed, but he was far from running like a pro. Therefore, it would take Lucas 40 to 50 minutes to run this 5K. If he made it, he would be right on schedule. His footsteps echoed in his mind, like a steady beat he had to follow. He passed a small grocery store with its fluorescent lights shining brightly, then a house with a dog barking excitedly behind a fence. When he finally reached the corner of his house, his body ached so much that he had to stop to catch his breath. "Ha... Ha..." He gasped with his hands on his knees, trying to catch his breath. Sweat was dripping from his face, and his back was soaked. He could feel it. His lungs seemed to be on fire, and every breath was a struggle. Suddenly, a system window appeared in front of him. [Daily Mission Completed]. [Congratulations! You''ve completed the "Effort X Reward" daily mission.] [You have increased your Physical by 3 points.] [You have increased your Speed by 2 points.] [You have received the following rewards: +1 Star Point and +1 Loot Box]. Lucas lifted his head, looked at the pop-ups that appeared before his eyes, and smiled, but the smile soon faded. "That was... horrible. Please, God, never let me go through that again." *** Beep! Beep! Beep! The next morning, when Lucas'' alarm clock beeped, and he opened his eyes, the mission was there again. [Daily Mission: Effort X Reward. Description: You''re not good enough. Try harder. Daily goal: 0/100 pushups 0/100 abs 0/100 Squats 0/10KM run Rewards: +1 Star Point +1 Loot Box]. Lucas rubbed his eyes and stared at the bright system screen, which once again displayed the daily mission. He let out a long, exasperated sigh. "Ahh... Of course, it is a daily mission. It won''t be that easy to get rid of it." Lucas said to himself. "But if I have to go through this every day, I at least have to know if it''s worth it." He muttered to himself and decided to take a closer look at the system. Without even washing his face, the first thing Lucas did that morning was browse through the options on the Champion System interface. He had seen something the night before, but had left it until the next day to check it out more calmly. "Yes, here it is." He found a section marked "Inventory" that he hadn''t explored yet. His fingers moved over the holographic screen and he clicked on the chest icon. To his surprise, an inventory appeared, very much like those in role-playing games, with those many square slots. There were many empty spaces, and the only one that glowed was occupied by a small golden box labeled "Loot Box". Lucas'' eyes widened in disbelief. "So... it''s real?" He asked in disbelief. "I actually get physical rewards for these efforts, and they''re stored here?" Lucas touched the golden box, and a menu appeared with the option of opening the loot box. Eager to see where it would go, he selected OPEN. The virtual box collapsed into inventory lights, visually revealing a series of items. [You must select an item from 1 - Small Healing Potion. 2 - Speed Boots (+2 speed). 3 - Restorative Elixir.] Lucas blinked a few times, trying to absorb the information. ''A healing potion? Speed Boots? And Restorative Elixir?'' He was confused. It was as if he was playing a game. "This is unbelievable..." He whispered, still in shock. Of all the absurd things that had happened to him in the past day, this game of his life was the most out of touch with reality. His thoughts were interrupted by a line from C¨¦os. [You can access your inventory at any time to use the items you have purchased.] Still sitting on his bed, Lucas decided to experiment. He selected the healing potion, and as if by magic, the potion appeared in his hand. [You have selected ''Small Healing Potion''.] It was a small glass bottle with a bright red liquid inside. This could be useful if he was injured before the championship and needed a quick recovery. Lucas held it for a moment, still incredulous, before deciding to put it back in his inventory. The potion disappeared from his hand and returned to virtual space. "So that''s how it works..." Lucas muttered to himself. Then he remembered the speed boots. With a smile on his face, he got up from his bed, put a hand to his face, and a broad grin appeared on his face. "If I choose the speed boots later, the daily mission will be much easier? Why didn''t I think of that? I have to take the test." Just like that, Lucas began to understand a little more about how overpowered the Champion system was. Chapter 10 09 - Nishida Right after breakfast, Lucas Tanaka hurried out of the house again.Hana looked at Ayumi and asked with her mouth full: "Mom, why did brother leave so early? We''re on summer vacation, there''s no school today. Did he forget?" Ayumi smiled at Hana and put more rice on the table. "No, he didn''t forget that he''s on vacation. I think he''s just a little upset with himself." "Hmm?" Hana didn''t understand what Ayumi meant. "Why should he be upset?" "Because Mr. Yamamoto didn''t start him in the first game of the summer league." The confused look on Hana''s face didn''t change, even after her mother explained. Hana was the kind of girl who thought soccer was cool, but she only knew the basic concept of which goal was cool. "Huh? Is Mr. Yamamoto still strict?" A heavyset person entered the conversation. It was John, Lucas'' father, who entered the kitchen. Ayumi laughed at her husband''s remark. "Do you still think he''s strict because he didn''t let you coach the team?" "He should have, but he said I was too American to know the rules that make soccer different from football." John adjusted his tie and approached Ayumi. "Please, dear, help me with this." "Does that mean brother is bad?" Hana asked, stuffing more food into her mouth. S~ea??h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. John looked back over his shoulder and explained, "Of course not! Your brother is a very good player, but Mr. Yamamoto is very strict. I bet he''s doing this to Lucas to teach him a lesson. Don''t worry, I bet Lucas'' team will make it to the semi-finals and we''ll be able to watch them live in Nagoya." "That''s right. And he''ll score a lot of goals." Ayumi said after she finished tying John''s tie. Then she kissed his cheek and said, "Now go eat before the rice gets cold, dear." * Surprisingly, Lucas managed to complete the exercises faster than the night before. [Daily Mission Completed] [Congratulations! You''ve completed the "Effort X Reward" daily mission.] [You have increased your Physique by 1 point.] [You have increased your Speed by 1 point]. [You have received the following rewards: +1 Star Point and +1 Loot Box]. Still, he was panting heavily and sweating profusely. He could barely breathe, but he smiled with relief when he saw the mission completion message. "Haa... I don''t know how I''m holding up..." He said to himself, panting. Staggering, Lucas went to the water fountain in the local park and stuck his head under the tap to cool off. He let the cool water run down his face, feeling every drop relieve the stifling summer heat. The sound of the cicadas was almost deafening, an incessant chorus echoing through the still empty park. Then he slowly turned away from the faucet, ran a hand through his wet hair, and took a deep breath. As he staggered to a nearby bench, Lucas'' mind began to replay the events that had brought him to this point. It hadn''t been long since he had been nothing more than a tired wage earner, stuck in a relentless work routine. For years he had buried his passion for soccer, believing it to be a dying flame, a youthful dream that would never come true. But on the night he died, everything changed. Either by luck or for some mysterious reason, he was given a new opportunity to rewrite his story and decided to dedicate himself with all his being to fulfilling his dream of becoming a professional soccer player. The summer championship was his big chance, and he couldn''t afford to miss it. He looked up at the blue sky, his eyes squinting against the intense glare of the sun. "I''ll make it," he muttered to himself, feeling a wave of renewed determination. "I have to make it." The sound of his cell phone vibrating interrupted his thoughts. Lucas quickly took the device out of his pocket and saw that it was a message from Nishida, his best friend. [Nishida: I''m already in the usual place, waiting for you.] [Tanaka: What? Why?] [Nishida: ?] [Nishida: Don''t you remember what I asked you to do?] [Tanaka: Oh yes! I just remembered. I''m in the park now. Can you come?] [Nishida: What? You didn''t even wait for me? :|!] [Tanaka: Sorry, I ran out and didn''t realize! Sorry, sorry!] [Nishida: Dude, I''m coming. I''ll be right there]. It was only through Nishida''s messages that Lucas remembered that he had promised to help Nishida learn how to pass, and that he hadn''t been chosen by Mr. Yamamoto as a starter at his last chance, either. Such old memories didn''t come easily, but reliving those moments made it easier for him to remember. Anyway, even though he had promised Nishida that he would try to help him, there was nowhere for him to go. He just sat on the bench, closed his eyes and waited. A light breeze brought the sound of approaching footsteps faster than Lucas had expected. He opened his eyes to see Nishida running toward him, a soccer ball tucked tightly under his arm. "Hey, shall we go?" Nishida said, looking focused. After that, the two of them went to the park''s futsal field. The court was empty, surrounded by a wire fence and with a weathered concrete floor. Nishida was the classic center forward. He was tall and physically stronger than most players, not to mention an absurd finishing ability. However, Nishida lacked all the skills expected of a striker. In fact, most of the time, Nishida didn''t even know how to pass the ball without making a mistake, so the ball almost always came to him for him to finish. Nishida was bothered by his own limitations, so he was determined to change. "Okay, Nishida," Lucas said, catching his breath after laughing. "Let''s start with the basics. First of all, you need to learn how to stop the ball and make accurate passes. Without that, no matter how much you run or shoot, you won''t be able to create good opportunities for others. Go to the area, I''ll demonstrate, and you should repeat afterwards." "All right." Lucas kicked the ball into the corner. In the futsal field, the space was much smaller and therefore did not require as much strength and technique. Lucas then kicked the ball and made a perfect cross. The ball came in high and slightly curved, right where Nishida was standing. Suddenly, Nishida bent his legs and made an impressive leap to head the ball straight into the goal. The ball went into the back of the net with a satisfying thud. Nishida fell to the ground with a huge smile on his face. His greatest joy was scoring goals. "It was a perfect ball." Nishida thanked him. Lucas didn''t even react to the goal. To Nishida, Lucas seemed to stare into nothingness. "Are you okay, man?" However, Lucas was focused on something else in front of his eyes. [The player Tsuyoshi Nishida has just demonstrated the skill . Do you want to check the copying conditions for this skill?] Chapter 11 10 - "What''s the matter, Tanaka? Are you angry because I finished?" Nishida asked, confused by the look on Lucas'' face.His friend''s question brought Lucas back to reality, and he shook his head. "It''s not that. I was just surprised at how high you jumped. How do you do that?" "Why are you asking me now? I thought we were here because you wanted to teach me how to pass." "Yes, that''s why we''re here. But it''s only fair that you teach me something as well, right?" The truth was, there was a reason why Lucas wanted Nishidato teach him how to jump up to his head. [Skill Copy Conditions : Beat Nishida''s pride and make him teach you the technique he uses to jump higher]. "First of all," Lucas continued. "Why did you jump before the ball I kicked reached you? I''m sure the ball would have landed on your foot if you hadn''t jumped up and headed it before it did." Nishida walked over to the goal, picked up the ball, and squeezed it. "I''m a goal-scoring striker. It''s natural for me to try to touch the ball as soon as I get a cross. Whether it''s a corner or a cross after a through ball, defenders always get in front of big strikers like me to keep the ball out, so I also have to get forward and fight to get a header on the ball." "So you think..." Lucas finished. "Hey, of course I think! I''m not an airhead!" Nishida shouted, annoyed that he was being honest. "Calm down, calm down! I didn''t mean that I think you''re stupid or anything! I was just surprised that this was a well thought out action." "Argh! Strikers have to think too, not just put the ball in the net and go out to celebrate." That day, Lucas noticed something he had never noticed before. On the field, the players were like cogs in a gigantic clock. If the goal was like the bell ringing at noon on the clock, the strikers were the last cogs. "I think... I want to be a striker." For the first time, Lucas expressed an idea that had been forming in his mind since he had gone back in time. Sear?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Nishid alooked at Lucas in surprise. He had always known Lucas as a classic No8, a midfielder who rarely missed a pass, so he had never imagined him as a striker. Nishida let out a deep sigh, tossed the ball up, and caught it again before speaking. "It''s difficult to be a striker, Tanaka. Most soccer players dream of being strikers when they''re kids. They want to be the heroes, the ones who score the goals and get standing ovations from the crowd. But as time goes on, many discover that they don''t have the talent or the mentality, and end up moving backwards on the pitch to find positions that suit them better. Even goalkeepers dream of being strikers at first, before realizing that their skills are better suited to defense than offense." Lucas knew that his friend was right. Being a striker wasn''t just a matter of wanting to be one, it was a matter of having the talent and determination to face the greatest challenges and expectations that came with the position. It was an absurd amount of pressure. Normally, Lucas wouldn''t dream of such a thing, but with the Champion System, it seemed like an achievable goal. "I understand that, Nishida. I know that being a striker is one of the most difficult positions, and people expect more from a striker than from any other position on the pitch. That''s why I need to learn how to score goals in every way. That''s why I want you to teach me how to jump high so I can fight in the box. I want to learn everything I need to be a good striker like you." Nishida looked at Lucas'' determined expression and realized that he was really committed to this new ambition. He couldn''t deny the strength of his friend''s will, and maybe, just maybe, Lucas could really make this change in position. "All right, Tanaka," Nishida said, tossing the ball to Lucas'' feet. "I''ll help you. But high jumping isn''t just a question of leg strength; it involves technique, timing, and most of all, a lot of practice." Lucas smiled. "That''s why we''re going to train together. You''ll work on your passes and crosses, while I''ll work on my headers and shots. Let''s start now." Nishida nodded in agreement and began to explain the basics of the push-up. "To jump high, the first thing you have to master is positioning. When you see the ball coming, you need to adjust your body to maximize the force and..." It had been a long day, but by the end of it, Lucas and Nishida had learned something completely new. After a series of unsuccessful attempts, Lucas positioned himself in the area and waited for Nishida''s cross. The ball came in high and fast. It wasn''t a perfect header, but it was Nishida''s best cross yet. With his eyes fixed on the trajectory, Lucas prepared to jump. He bent his knees and jumped with all the strength he could muster in his legs. In the air, he felt the lightness and power of the momentum, as if he were floating for a brief moment. That was inertia. His head met the ball at the perfect point, and he headed it into the goal. [Copy Conditions Achieved]. [Skill of acquired]. [ unleashed]. Lucas landed with a broad smile on his face, panting but triumphant. He looked at Nishida, who was sweating and panting heavily. "I did it..." Nishida murmured, surprised by his pass. "That was incredible, Nishida! You did it!" Lucas shouted. Nishida, with his black hair, even looked a little shy. "Thanks... I mean, I would have done it before, but you never reached the ball!" "Right. Well, let''s keep practicing and get even better." Lucas picked up the ball. "No, it''s getting late. We haven''t even had lunch, and tomorrow is travel day. We have to go back to the house and rest." "You know you''re a lot more regimented than you seem to others, right?" Lucas joked, but he was tired as well. Just then, new notifications from the Champion System finally appeared. [You have completed a training session. Your attributes can be increased...] [You have increased your Headbutt skill by 5 points.] [You have increased your Stance skill by 3 points.] ''So this is how I increase my talents?'' [Yes, your talents will be improved with training that focuses on those talents, because normal training can''t improve them.] C¨¦os replied quickly. ''Okay, but what''s the difference between the "talents" and my normal attributes? Because my dribbling definitely won''t be improved by doing push-ups.'' [The "dribbling" attribute is called that because dribbling requires agility. By developing your agility, you will improve your ability to complete dribbles. However, there is no way to measure your dribbling repertoire. Dribbling is a body technique that you have to learn on your own or get a special skill for. Some players dribble almost automatically]. ''I see¡­'' "What are you doing, Tanaka? Take the ball and come on. I''ll buy us a drink before we go!" "I''ll take coffee." Lucas said. "Coffee? You sound like an old man sometimes." Chapter 12 11 - Chubu Region Summer Championship The Chubu Region Summer Championship was a small championship with only sixteen school teams from invited high schools.Lucas and Nishida''s school was Wushia High School, and in the past, it had achieved great success, reaching the semifinals of the national championship two years in a row. However, in recent years, Wushia High School''s results have not been very impressive. The only reason Wushia High continued to be invited to the Chubu Region Summer Championships every year was because of Mr. Yamamoto''s coaching contacts and friends. In most regions of Japan, the summer school championships weren''t important, but in Kanto and Chubu, the high school teams took them very seriously because the summer break was the time when the players could give their all and focus entirely on the soccer club. This year, the summer championship would be held far away from Fukui, where Wushia School was located. It would be held in Nagoya, a large city in the region. Because of this, the atmosphere on the bus was different than usual. "Are we there yet?" Kuwabara asked. Mr. Yamamoto, who was sitting on the first seat of the bus with his arms crossed, denied it. "There are still a few kilometers to go." "Ah... this four-hour trip is tiring me out," Hidefumi said, rubbing his temples. "But it''s only been a little over an hour." Yuuga, the blonde-haired, rosy-cheeked boy next to Hidefumi, answered him. "Dude... why are you even on my side? I told you, there''s enough room on the bus for everyone to have two seats. There''s only our club here." Hidefumi pointed to the back of the bus, showing that there were enough seats for Yuuga, who promptly hugged himself and started to dramatize. "No, I''m afraid of being too lonely in a seat by myself! Besides, it''s much more important for us to bond during the trip. It''s important for the team dynamic!" "Tsk! Will you shut up?" Tsukada asked, taking off his headset for a moment. "There are people here trying to concentrate on today''s game." There was complete silence after Tsukada asked. He had an imposing presence that everyone respected. Even though he was easily irritated and very self-centered at times, everyone knew that he was someone who didn''t play well when something shook him, and he was the important number 10. Anyway, Lucas watched the whole interaction with a slight smile. He remembered all the times the same arguments and little intrigues had taken place during their travels. The little rivalries, the jokes, the moments of tension and camaraderie were all part of what he loved most about traveling with the soccer club. After a few minutes, the bus entered a larger highway. The city of Nagoya began to appear on the horizon, with its tall buildings and constant movement of cars. The city was huge and contrasted with the rural tranquility of Fukui. The excitement on the bus grew immediately. "Guys, look at that! It''s Nagoya!" Kawabara exclaimed, pointing to the view. Everyone turned to the windows and admired the city. For many of them, this was a rare opportunity to visit a metropolis like Nagoya. The buzz of excited voices filled the bus, and Mr. Yamamoto didn''t scold them for acting like children. When they got off the bus in front of the hotel, everyone was wearing the school''s winter sports uniform. Lucas was one of the last to disembark. He took a deep breath and felt the Nagoya air filling his lungs. It was different from Tokyo, but it still smelled like a big city. "Come on, guys. Form two lines and grab your bags," Mr. Yamamoto ordered, his firm voice cutting through the group''s euphoria. Hidefumi, still rubbing his temples, was the first to grab his backpack and get into position. "I hope this hotel has comfortable beds..." he muttered, drawing laughter from some of the nearby players. Hidefumi was the laziest player on the team and always seemed to be bored. Yuuga patted Hidefumi''s back. "Relax man. The best is yet to come. We''re going to win this championship and maybe meet some girls from Nagoya." Hidefumi just rolled his eyes, but couldn''t hide a small smile at the corner of his mouth. Yuuga''s strange personality was sometimes hard to resist. S§×arch* The N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. The hotel they stayed in was simple. However, when the group entered the lobby, the players were impressed by the decor. The marble floor shone beneath their feet, and there was a large television and a spacious sofa. "This place is amazing!" exclaimed Kuwabara, throwing himself onto the sofa. "Concentrate, Kuwabara." Tsukada said in a serious tone. "We''re here to play, not to stare at the hotel like country bumpkins." Kuwabara''s smile disappeared. "Right, sorry..." Lucas, observing the interaction, felt that Tsukada was being too uncomfortable. He knew that the pressure was high, especially for Tsukada, who always carried the weight of the team''s expectations on his shoulders, but he shouldn''t put that weight on the other players. Mr. Yamamoto approached the reception desk, where a woman with a professional smile was waiting for them. "Welcome to the Sakura Hotel. You''re from Wushia High School, right?" The clerk asked, handing the coach a list of rooms. "I hope you have a nice stay." "Thank you," Mr. Yamamoto replied and took the list. He turned to the players and began handing out room keys. "Remember guys, we have a big game later. I want everyone rested and ready to go." "And no trouble. Be here in an hour at the latest, because we have to leave for the Asset Minato Soccer Stadium." The players nodded and lined up to get their room keys. Soon, they were heading for the elevators. Lucas would be sharing a room with Nishida, so he followed his longtime friend down the elegant corridor. Nishida was strangely quiet, probably concentrating on the game. Lucas decided not to disturb him any more than necessary. ''I have to concentrate too. Not this championship... This first game could decide if I''m chosen by the scouts or not.'' Lucas concluded, clenching his fists. Chapter 13 12 - Rival Schools "We''re here!" Mr. Yamamoto announced, opening his arms.Behind him was an imposing stadium with modern structures. It was the largest stadium most of the Wushia High School boys had seen in their lives, so everyone was impressed. "Ohhh! It''s so big!" In fact, the Asset Minato Soccer Stadium was much bigger than the small stadiums in their town. The roof of the stands was a futuristic steel and glass structure with solar panels that powered the stadium with renewable energy. All around the entrance, bright and colorful banners displayed images of professional players participating in the Chubu Region Summer Championship, serving as advertisements. "Look at that, guys," said Kenji, the team captain, with a smile on his face as he pointed to a championship banner with the symbol of Adidas, a world-famous clothing brand. Adidas sponsored the championship with sports equipment. The boys began to act excited like, well, soccer-mad boys. This was the first championship for most of them, so they were excited. Suddenly, as everyone was getting off, a bus pulled up next to them. Players from another school got off the bus. Their uniforms were bright blue with white details. Their confidence was evident with every step they took toward the stadium entrance. "Hey, check it out." One of the boys from the other school said with a mischievous smile. "Looks like we got a bunch of rednecks here today." Nishida, known for his no-tolerance temper, felt his blood boil. His hands clenched into fists and he took a step forward. "What did you say?" said Nishidaangrily. "Bumpkin is what you''ll become after I stick my hand in your face, because you''ll never want to live in a society with a disfigured face again!" The boys from the other school were startled, thinking they had spoken so softly that no one could hear. "Calm down, Nishida. Calm down." Mr. Yamamoto intervened, stepping in front of Nishidato stop him from attacking the boys from the other school. "There''s no point in fighting over this. Let''s prove our worth on the field, not out here." Some boys from the other school laughed at the scene of an old man trying to hold back the boy with the spiky tuft, but before the situation could get any worse, a girl approached the boys who had provoked this situation. She was short, with blue hair pulled back in a ponytail, and her eyes showed authority. "Hey, assholes!" she said, slapping the two laughing boys on the head. "Show some respect." S§×ar?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. The boys immediately fell silent, rubbing their heads where they had been hit. "I''m sorry for their behavior," the girl said, bowing to Mr. Yamamoto and the Wushia High School boys. "They''re not usually like this, I promise. By the way, I''m Hasumi Seiya from Hanrahan High School." Mr. Yamamoto was grateful for the intervention. "Thank you, Miss Seiya. I''m Mr. Yamamoto, coach of Wushia High School." Hasumi smiled and turned to his colleagues. "Come on, guys. Show everyone that we know how to behave." As the players from the other school entered the stadium, Nishidastill looked angry. His fists were still clenched, and he was muttering through his teeth. "We can''t let this go to waste," he said to Tanaka, who was standing next to him. "I know, Nishida," Tanaka replied calmly. "But Mr. Yamamoto is right. Let''s prove ourselves on the field. This place is full of strong schools. We can''t let anyone underestimate us or call us bad or weak. Right now, they think we''re just salmon in a sea of sharks. Let them keep thinking that, because when they least expect it, we''re going to show up as killer whales." Nishidawas surprised by Tanaka''s mature reaction. His eyebrows went up, but then he became serious, put his hands in his coat pockets, and nodded. The Wushia High School boys followed their coach down a long corridor that led to the locker rooms. "I have to say, this place is emptier than I expected." Toshinori, the starting goalie, said with a serious look on his face. He was 16 years old, and this was his first championship. Since it was the summer championship, everyone expected many schools from all over the Chubu region, but there were only six school buses in the parking lot and not many kids in the hallways. Mr. Yamamoto smiled at the corner of his mouth. "That''s because we''re weak." The coach''s answer stunned everyone. How could he say something like that just a few minutes into the game? Despite their surprise, no one dared to argue with the coach and waited for him to continue. "Wushia School is one of the few schools invited to this tournament for social reasons. We haven''t had any significant results in the past few years, and we''re known as THE WEAKEST because of our performance in the National Championships over the past ten years. We haven''t even won our first qualifying match in four years. The only reason we still have official matches and friendlies against other schools is because of the history that the alumni of Wushia High School have built." At the same time as Mr. Yamamoto was explaining, they entered the locker room area. On the walls of this long, wide corridor, there was a long sticker with pictures of various famous players from around the world. "But to me, that''s the fun of soccer," Mr. Yamamoto said. "What''s so cool about it?" asked Yuuga. "Isn''t it exciting for you, too, to know that when you play well and win, you''re literally making history with your feet? Every goal you score, every victory you win, you go down into the team''s history. That''s the part that excites me the most about soccer. The power to make things bigger, the power to change. Today, Wushia High School is weak, but you can write a story in this championship and write your names in the history of Wushia High School as the players who brought this school back into the spotlight." They hadn''t even entered the locker room or stood on the sidelines yet, but Mr. Yamamoto''s speech made them feel as if they were already on the field playing soccer. Lucas Tanaka was in shock. He didn''t remember Mr. Yamamoto''s speech, so hearing it was like a slap in the face. He clenched his hands and thought: ''The old man is right! We have to do this! I have to do it! My first goal as a professional is to win this championship and change the history of Wushia College.'' Chapter 14 13 - Tactical Formation In the locker room where Lucas Tanaka and the others were assigned, there was another team from another school soccer club, but the locker room was big enough for each of them to sit in a corner.As Lucas put on his boots, he remembered when he got the same boots from Ayumi and John. That evening, after John came home from work, he called Lucas into the living room where John and Ayumi were waiting for him with a gift box in their hands. "Lucas, we know it''s not just your birthday, but we want to give you something to encourage you to continue playing soccer in high school. We know you have great potential, and great players need good boots, right?" Ayumi handed the box to Lucas, who opened it with trembling hands. Inside was a new pair of blue boots. His eyes filled with tears and he couldn''t help but hug Ayumi and John tightly. "Thank you, Dad. Thank you, Mom. I promise I''ll do my best. Always." Lucas declared, his voice choked with emotion that day. Lucas was determined to let his parents'' great deeds inspire him to achieve his dreams, but even after going back in time, things weren''t going quite as Lucas had hoped. Even though he had the system, he couldn''t change Mr. Yamamoto''s mind and started as an alternate. Their first game in the league was against Karaso High School, who wore red and black, and the Wushia High School''s first team was playing well. The game was already underway, and Lucas, sitting on the bench, could only watch and cheer for his teammates on the field. Sitting on the bench in a situation like this would be a pain for anyone, but it was especially annoying for him, who had been on the first team a few times. The only reason he wasn''t there was because Mr. Yamamoto felt he was more important to come on in the second half. The stands in the stadium weren''t full, but there were a few dozen people watching, which made it more difficult than just playing for schoolmates watching from the windows. At the beginning of the first half, Wushia High School had the majority of the possession, and they were eager to score the first goal by connecting the midfield with the attack led by Tsuyoshi Nishida. In one of these moments of connection, Tsukada received a pass from Kenji in midfield and began to advance, dribbling past two Karaso players with agility. Despite his pride, Tsukada was the team''s number 10. There was no denying that he was very good, and even the few fans were a bit impressed by the ease with which he was able to get rid of Karaso High School''s strong marking. After attracting more marking off his dribble, Tsukada quickly passed the ball back to Kenji. The No. 8 made his way down the right flank, using his speed to leave the defenders in his wake. Nishida was positioned in the area, ready to receive the cross, and as always, he called out: "I''m here!" Kenji crossed the ball to Nishida. The striker was pressured by a defender, but he had tremendous physical strength and jumped up just in time. His head hit the ball with a powerful impact. Everyone expected the ball to hit the net as it flew toward the goal. However, the Karaso School goalkeeper, with his impressive reflexes, managed to touch the ball with his fingertips and deflect it slightly. The ball then sailed over the crossbar for a corner. The collective excitement of the Wushia High School boys on the bench turned to groans of disappointment and continued to do so for the next few minutes. Karaso High School had a classic 4-3-3 tactical formation, which in simplified terms meant that they had 4 defenders, 3 midfielders, and 3 strikers. As such, Karaso High School didn''t pose much of a threat to Wushia High School''s 3-4-3 formation. With an extra player in the midfield, High School Wushia was able to better connect the midfield with the attack, so they had a much higher volume of attacking play than their opponents. Surprisingly, the game continued like this, with High School Wushia constantly pressing, but unable to break through High School Karaso''s compact defense. Every attempt to attack was thwarted by the relentless defense, which left Nishida no room to finish accurately. On the sidelines, coach Mr. Yamamoto shouted instructions, trying to keep the team focused and excited. But the team''s inability to score on so many chances was making them anxious. "They''re playing for a draw. They''re cowards," muttered Yuuga, number 4, on the bench next to Lucas. He was visibly annoyed, tapping his foot repeatedly on the floor. "This is so frustrating! It''s like they don''t even want to win. Where is the will to win?" Lucas shook his head negatively, keeping his eyes on the field. "It''s natural for them to play like that. We have very good midfielders who always manage to connect with Nishida. With four players at the back, they can practically double-team him, which means they can neutralize our top scorer. It''s a defensive strategy that tires out our midfielders, forcing them to work harder to find space while their team rests." "Oh, so they''re clever cowards? That doesn''t change the fact that they''re cowards." "If they win, it doesn''t matter if they were cowards or not. Soccer tends to favor those who have possession, and the best teams tactically tend to have possession. But that''s not a rule. The best teams are the ones who win. That''s always been one of the main rules of football... We have to find a way to overcome this defense. This is a game of patience as much as skill." The first half continued at the same pace. Wushia High School dominated possession, but every attempt to attack was met by Karaso''s well-organized defense. Tsukada, Kenji, Yukihiro, and Nishidatried incessantly, but to no avail. Fatigue began to show on the faces of the players. At the 35th minute, a new attack was launched. Tsukada advanced through the center, dribbled past a defender, and passed to Kenji on the right. Kenji, with a determined look on his face, made a cross gesture, glancing at Nishida, and the defenders swarmed around No. 9 to prevent him from finishing. "Get out of here, you bastards!" Nishida said, gritting his teeth. But Kenji was smart. He knew that Nishida would be double-teamed at the first sign of a normal cross, so he pretended to cross and cut inside, keeping an eye on the goal of shooting from outside the area. He was about to shoot when a midfielder appeared like a shadow behind him and closed the angle of the shot, causing Kenji''s shot to deflect upward and then fall quietly into the hands of the opposing goalkeeper. "Come on, boys!" yelled Mr. Yamamoto from the sidelines, trying to get his players'' spirits up. However, it was clear that the physical strain was beginning to affect the team, both tactically, with more silly mistakes, and emotionally. Lucas was watching closely, eager to get out on the field. He knew he could make a difference, but he also understood that he had to wait his turn. His opportunity would come, he just had to be ready. A sharp whistle signaled the end of the first half, and the Wushia High School players dragged themselves to the bench, where Lucas and the other reserves played the role of helpers, handing out bottles of water and offering words of support. Lucas handed Nishida a bottle of water and said: Sear?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. "Don''t worry, man. The goal will come." Nishida took the bottle but said nothing. He was too frustrated to speak. Just then, a system message appeared for Lucas. [New Main Mission!] [Main Mission Name: First Step to Stardom Description: You must prove that you are ready and have the potential to become a professional soccer player. Objective: Score a goal or provide an assist to open the scoring in Wushia High School''s match against Karaso High School. Rewards: + 10 Star Points. + 5 Attribute Points. + 1 Uncommon Loot Box.] Chapter 15 14 - Being a substitute is bad On the sidelines, all the Wushia High School players were panting and almost sticking out their tongues. They had run so hard, worked so hard to score in the first half, that they were physically and mentally exhausted."Was that just the first half?" Kuwabara, the diminutive right back, sat on the ground, sweat dripping from his face. "Don''t get discouraged, don''t get discouraged! You''re doing great, you''re controlling the game!" Mr. Yamamoto said, gesturing with his hands. "But you have to be more patient. Having the ball is also about playing systematically until the opposing players make mistakes. It doesn''t make sense to rush into space and end up making simple passes like we did in the last five minutes." The few minutes of rest during the break were filled with strategic discussions and words of encouragement. Mr. Yamamoto detailed new instructions for the starting players to try to find gaps in Karaso''s impenetrable defense. When the players returned to the field for the second half, they had only had a short rest. At the same time, Lucas began stretching in the warm-up area. Then he began to trot back and forth. It was important to keep the blood circulating in his legs so that his movements wouldn''t get stuck when he played. This did not go unnoticed by Mr. Yamamoto. "Lucas, why are you warming up? I haven''t told anyone to warm up yet." Lucas didn''t stop trotting, but looked his coach straight in the eye and replied with unwavering confidence: "I know I''m going into this game to change the rhythm of the team. So I''m already warming up." Mr. Yamamoto was left without an answer. The determination in Lucas'' eyes was something he didn''t see every day. He hesitated for a moment, then nodded and allowed Lucas to continue his warm-up. At the start of the second half, the game seemed just as intense as the first, but this time it was the other way around. High School Karaso came out harder than before. They weren''t just defending like before; they were marking high to steal the ball from Wushia High School. The Wushia players, still trying to recover from the wear and tear of the first half, found it difficult to maintain possession. Every time they tried to move forward, the Karaso players were there, pressing, surrounding, and smothering any attempt to react. Tsukada, Wushia High School''s number 10, was the main target of the tight marking. Known for his ability to create plays and dribble, he was under constant pressure. As soon as the ball reached his feet, it was fiercely contested by two or three opponents. Just when it looked like he might be able to dribble and move forward, he would be fouled. The first time he lost the ball was three minutes into the second half. Tsukada received a pass from Kuwabara, and as he turned to move forward, he was tackled by a Karaso High School defender who anticipated his move. Tsukada fell to the ground with a look of frustration on his face, while the Karaso player was already moving forward with the ball to launch a dangerous counterattack. This counterattack was only stopped by a miraculous save by Toshinori, the goalkeeper of Wushia High School. Sear?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. As the minutes ticked by, the situation was getting worse. The Karaso team seemed to be one step ahead in every play, and with each mistake made by Wushia, their opponents'' confidence grew. Ten minutes later, Tsukada lost the ball again. This time, he tried a quick pass to Takahashi, but it was intercepted by a Karaso midfielder who threw himself in front of the ball with perfect timing. The Karaso fans in the dugout roared with joy. ''How can I prevent this pressure marking from continuing when I come on?'' Lucas tried to find the answer by mentally putting himself on the field. [It is impossible to maintain a rigid defense and high marking. High marking spreads the players out more and open up space for crosses and through balls]. ''If I can get the ball through for someone to finish, I''ll totally break the marking!'' Fifteen minutes into the second half, Mr. Yamamoto couldn''t wait any longer. "Lucas!" Mr. Yamamoto called out. "Get ready to go in." Lucas nodded, his eyes shining with fierce determination. He took off his warm-up jacket and tossed it aside, revealing his number 5 Wushia High School jersey. As he approached the sidelines, Mr. Yamamoto placed a firm hand on his shoulder. "Listen, Lucas, you''re going to go out there and do what you do best. Control the ball, make accurate passes, and above all, stay calm. We need someone to reorganize our midfield, and you''re the one to do it. I trust you." Lucas nodded again, even though his heart was beating fast. The moment the ball went out to the sideline, the referee blew the whistle for the fourth official to raise the sign signaling the substitution. Tsukada looked at Kenji and said: "Oh, man! You played well. It''s a shame you have to come off now." It was always like that. Although Kenji was a No. 5 and Lucas Tanaka was a No. 8, which in professional soccer are usually players with very different skills, Lucas Tanaka was a midfielder who was very similar to Kenji in terms of passing, so they rarely played together. However, Mr. Yamamoto had a different plan for this match, a wager that could be the difference between victory and defeat. "No. 10 must come off for No. 5!" the fourth official shouted as he raised the sign. Tsukada was stunned. "B-but what? Me? Something must be wrong. Tanaka and I are in completely different positions!" He thought aloud. Then Tsukada pointed at himself while looking at Mr. Yamamoto to make sure there was nothing wrong with the sign, but the gray-haired coach didn''t move a muscle. Tsukada felt a wave of frustration and disbelief hit him like a punch in the stomach as he walked off the field to make way for Lucas Tanaka. Tsukada, his face flushed with anger, walked past Mr. Yamamoto without saying a word, avoiding the coach''s gaze. As he sat down on the bench, he kicked a water bottle on the ground, sending it flying across the grass. The reserve players of the opposing team couldn''t help but comment on the situation. "Could it be that their coach is going crazy?" one of them laughed. "Taking off a skilled No10 to put on a reserve No8? I bet he''s only got the number 8 shirt because nobody else wanted it!" As he trotted out to the midfield to take his position, Lucas thought that many might be confused by this substitution, as even he was a bit confused . But replacing Tsukada or Kenji didn''t change his goal. The moment Lucas reached midfield, his eyes met those of a blue-haired girl sitting in the opposite stands. It was the same girl he had seen outside the bus earlier that day. Lucas was sure that the question on her mind was the same as everyone else''s, including his teammates'', but he was determined to prove that he could play as a 10 if need be... [Copy Conditions Achieved]. [Skill acquired]. [ released]. Chapter 16 15 - Troubleshooter [To make the most of your new skills, it might be wise to make a big impact with your first touch of the ball,] C¨¦os said.''You don''t have to tell me. I know.'' Lucas thought and took a deep breath. The game restarted with a subtle touch of the ball that had come out of the back. Wushia High School had possession, so it didn''t take long for the ball to reach the center of the field. Kenji was number 5, so he moved close to the defenders to receive the ball and continue the attack. Sear?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. One of the Kasaro midfielders quickly moved forward to press Kenji, who played the ball to Lucas. Lucas raised his head as the ball rolled toward him, positioned his body, prepared to receive the pass, and instead of holding the ball and attempting a dribble, did something few expected. In one fluid motion, Lucas made a cross with his first touch of the ball, sending it in a perfect arc to Yukihiro Kasahara, who was positioned further forward on the left. "It''s yours, Yukihiro!" Lucas shouted. Yukihiro was number 11, an agile and experienced striker, so he didn''t even have to think before picking up the ball and cutting through the opposition defense. Lucas'' precise cross allowed Yukihiro to reach the opposition''s penalty area in a matter of seconds, leaving much of Kasaro High School out of position and the defenders confused. The crowd frowned in anticipation as Kasahara unleashed a right-footed shot on the goal. The ball flew like a rocket, past the opposing goalkeeper and into the net with a satisfying thud. Even Lucas was surprised at how easy it was to finish this time. In fact, several screens appeared as Lucas raised his arms in celebration. [You have completed the "First Step to Stardom" mission!] [You have received +10 Star Points.] [You have received +5 Attribute Points.] [You have received +1 Uncommon Loot Box.] On the bench, Tsukada watched with a mixture of frustration and surprise. He couldn''t deny that Lucas'' pass had been brilliant, but that didn''t ease the pain of the substitution. At the same time, two middle-aged men in the stands were discussing the goal that had just been scored. "What kind of pass was that, boss? How did he know where number 11 was?" The man next to the first, looking only slightly older, had a hand on his chin, analyzing. "I think I saw number 8 lift his head and look around just before the ball arrived. Most spectators just follow the ball with their eyes and don''t see these little details on the pitch." "Still, the pass was perfect, and he didn''t even stop the ball before kicking it." "Yes, his pass was almost perfect." "It wasn''t perfect." Suddenly, a third person interrupted the conversation between the two friends. They looked over and saw a blue-haired girl in a winter gym uniform. "What do you mean? The pass was perfect, it reached the number 11." "That''s because number 11 is a fast player, and he managed to catch the ball after it hit the ground. For young players, it was indeed a good pass. But a perfect pass is not like that. Perfect passes are very rare, especially first-time passes like the one made by No. 8. I think in the world only midfielders like Tony Kross, Kevin De Bruyne and others at the same level can do that." One of the men laughed at the girl''s answer. "Haha! But you can''t expect that in a championship like this." "Why not? The chances of a future great Japanese player being here today are slim, but not zero. Besides, most of the players here want to become professionals, so excellence is the minimum expected." "Hey, boss, let''s go to the bathroom." One of the men said to the other, who was already getting up. "Yeah, let''s go." As the men walked away from the blue-haired girl, they looked back briefly and commented. "What''s cute about her is scary. Let''s find somewhere else to sit." Turning our attention back to the field, the score was 1-0 to Wushia High School. "Good pass, Lucas!" Yukihiro shouted as he passed Lucas and patted him on the back. "Keep it up and we''ll win this game." Lucas Tanaka smiled and agreed. Karaso High School''s high marking was smothering Wushia High School at the start of the second half, and Lucas knew exactly how to break it down. When the game resumed and Lucas'' team was defending an unsuccessful attack, Lucas received the ball to lead a counterattack and without hesitation raised his head. He saw the space between the defenders and, with a first-time pass, launched the ball, forcing Nishida to run to catch it. The ball sailed through the opposing defense, taking everyone by surprise. "Ha! Lucas, you bastard!" Nishida said as he raced against an opposing defender. Nishida ran in, got the ball, and shot from a distance, hitting the crossbar with a powerful shot. On the next play, Lucas received another pass and again, with a subtle, quick touch, played the ball into the middle of the field, where a teammate was already on the move. "What a vision of play!" exclaimed one spectator. Once again, Nishida collected the ball, evaded his defender, and fired a high shot that forced the goalkeeper to make a spectacular save. "Come on, come on! Don''t let up!" shouted Kenji, encouraging the team. Lucas knew he was making a difference with those first passes, but it still wasn''t enough for him, definitely not enough. He wanted more; he wanted to humiliate his opponents. Only then would he be able to stand out enough to become a professional. [New Bonus Mission!] [Name of the bonus mission: Troubleshooter Description: You gave an assist against Karaso High School, which gave you the advantage for the time being. But you want more. You have a real striker''s hunger for goals. Goal: Score a goal against High School Karaso. Rewards: + 1 Uncommon Loot Box. + 1 Mysterious Reward]. Chapter 17 16 - Evolution ''What does this question mark for a reward mean?'' Lucas wondered as he trotted off to help rally the team''s defense.[It seems to mean that it''s a mysterious reward. The only way to find out is to complete the mission suggested by the champion system]. ''I understand that part. But what kind of reward needs to be hidden? I thought my rewards for completing missions were limited to experience, loot, and attributes.'' [According to my information, the champion system can offer about 1 million different rewards for each mission. Based on that, it''s safe to say that the rewards get better and worse depending on the difficulty of the mission]. ''In other words, I''m going to get a reward I''ve never gotten before for scoring a goal here and now! This is getting interesting!'' Excited, Lucas Tanaka gave it his all, dribbling to block Karaso High School''s No. 7 from advancing. His teammates on the bench shouted in celebration. Lucas Tanaka got up quickly after the tackle, saw that the ball had gone wide, and ran back to his position. High School Karaso now had to open up and try to find scoring opportunities, so it was only natural that the game became faster and more intense. The sky was beginning to cloud over, promising the typical late afternoon rain, and a light breeze fluttered the flags on the flagpoles. The green pitch at the Asset Minato Soccer Stadium wasn''t perfect, as it was made of artificial grass, but the ball rolled very well. As the ball rolled toward Lucas, he looked around for his teammates again, but at that moment, he noticed that the Karaso High School players weren''t running toward the ball like they had before when they tried to keep up the pressure, but they were marking the Wushia High School players just like they had before Lucas entered. In other words, they prevented him from opening up the defense with his quick passes. A broad smile appeared on Lucas'' face. ''All right, Champion System. Let''s show them what we can do.'' Lucas thought. He took a deep breath, feeling the cold air fill his lungs, and instead of passing the ball, he grabbed it and activated his new skill called , feeling a slight vibration in his legs as they also felt lighter. He looked ahead, visualizing the field and realizing that this was his chance to shine and earn the mysterious reward of the Champion System. When an opponent approached and tried to disarm him, the first thing Lucas did was give the ball a quick flick, just as he had seen Tsukada do countless times. That was enough to make his opponent slip. The High School Karaso players, used to Lucas'' passing style of play, were surprised when he started to run with the ball and dribble. He soon passed the second marker with a short dribble, deflecting the ball to the left and then to the right, causing the player to stumble and lose his balance. The skill seemed to have given him an accuracy with the ball at close range that seemed extraordinary. "How does he do that?" One of the reserve players from Karaso High School shouted in surprise. At the same time, on the bench at Wushia High School, Tsukada was in disbelief. He had never seen Lucas do that, not even in practice. To him, Lucas Tanaka was just a midfielder who was internally recognized by the team as a good passer, not a dribbler or anything like that. Hidefumi leaned forward in his seat, put his hand to his chin and said: "Tanaka looks different." Tsukada blinked twice, still depressed, and agreed without thinking. "Doesn''t he?! What happened to him?" "I don''t know, but it looks like he finally woke up." Tsukada''s brow furrowed at Hidefumi''s answer. "What are you talking about?" "You know, Tanaka was always a team player, a great passer and midfielder who played for the team. He was always the kind of player who always seemed to please others. However, I think he realized that just playing for his team doesn''t always guarantee victories." "Huh..." "There''s a problem, though." Hidefumi said, looking at Lucas, who was passing several opponents. "What?" Tsukada asked dejectedly. "I think it''s because of Lucas'' passive personality that he and Nishida have always been such good friends. He''s the assist guy and Nishida is the goal guy... I wonder what would happen to their friendship if Tanaka finally started thinking individualistically." After four dribbles in a row, Lucas was left free to move up the field. His teammates quickly appeared on the sides of his field of vision, and there, as always, was Nishida, the team''s top scorer, exuding his unmistakable, animalistic hunger for goals. "Lucas! Over here!" Nishida shouted, as if Lucas hadn''t noticed him. He was perfectly positioned. A simple pass behind the defender''s back and he would be in a great position to fire a powerful shot with his left leg. For a moment, Lucas'' old collective nature almost made him give in and take the pass. He actually considered the pass, saw the play unfold in his mind. But even though it could lead to victory, he refused to follow the old path. Lucas wanted to complete the mission of the Champion System. That was why he was there. In a risky decision, Lucas chose to dribble past another defender. He got past his marker, but not cleanly this time. The skill gave him a 30% chance of getting past a marker perfectly. Lucas felt a slight touch on the ball, enough to redirect its trajectory. The world seemed to slow down. He saw the ball slip from his grasp and roll quickly out of his reach. sea??h th§× n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. His heart nearly sank to the floor as he fought to at least try to finish, even though it was difficult. He succeeded, but the shot was chewed up and went wide without the goalkeeper having to make an effort. Lucas stopped panting. Sweat ran down his face, mixing with the cold wind. He didn''t have the heart to look at Nishida. He knew his friend was standing there, staring at him with an expression of disappointment he didn''t want to see. Still, Lucas could hear it. "Tsk!" Nishida clucked his tongue as he left the opponent''s goal area. Chapter 18 17 - Injury With Wushia High School''s missed goal, the opposing team regained possession and quickly launched a counterattack, their players moving with frightening synchronicity.Lucas was on his knees, still regretting the missed opportunity. Seeing the counterattack, he ran back to try to help, but his legs stopped right in midfield as one of the opposing strikers dribbled past Kuwabara and advanced on the goal alone. Wushia''s goalkeeper, Toshinori, came out of his goal to close the angle, but the striker was ready. With a subtle touch, he deflected the ball to his right, dribbled past Toshinori and fired the ball into the back of the net. The technical area of High School Karaso erupted in celebration as the Karaso players embraced each other. Lucas stood like a statue in the middle of the field. It was at that moment that he realized how much he was going to miss the opportunity to score that he had missed because of his selfishness. Lucas realized that he had to find a balance. His ambition to complete the Champion System mission could not be greater than his need to win the game for his team, because without that game and the next ones in the championship, he would not be able to get the attention he needed from the scouts. Lucas'' teammates regrouped, some clapping in encouragement, others just trying to get their spirits back up. He looked at Nishida who, despite his disappointment, gave him a nod as if to say. "It''s not over yet." The referee blew his whistle again, and the game resumed. Lucas exchanged quick glances with his teammates, and Wushia High School moved forward with the ball, moving in a tight formation with orderly touches. They were the better team technically, they just needed to stay calm. When Lucas got the ball and started to move forward, he used the again. Two Karaso defenders came towards him, but this time he didn''t try to dribble past them. Instead, he made a quick pass to Kenji, who was on his left. Kenji, in turn, passed to Yukihiro, who made a play from deep. Yukihiro was the fastest player on the Wushia High School soccer team. He had long hair and a confident demeanor. When he ran deep with the ball, it was like watching a cheetah in action. His legs became a blur. However, luck was not in Wushia High School''s favor. At that moment, a sharp pain shot through Yukihiro''s right ankle. The truth was that Yukihiro had been slightly injured since the last practice match, but he hadn''t told anyone about it. Yukihiro was the only fast winger on the team, and his teammates needed him on the field. Besides, he didn''t want to disappoint his younger brother, who was probably watching the game from home after watching it on the Internet. For his sake, Yukihiro ignored the pain because he had to cross the ball into the middle of the box. He couldn''t let his teammates down, either. With effort visible on his face, Yukihiro crossed with his right leg, but the ball took a far from perfect curve. As he fell to the ground, he hoped that the ball would reach one of his teammates who was breaking into the area. As the ball floated into the opponent''s area, everything slowed down more than usual, and Yukihiro''s thoughts wandered. Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. He imagined his brother''s face, frustrated and discouraged by soccer, and also remembered the previous year, the feeling of being eliminated in the same championship, the sight of his third-year classmates crying in frustration at not being enough to lead Wushia High School to glory again. "SOMEONE! PICK UP THE BALL!!!" Yukihiro shouted with an eagerness that came from his heart. The ball, though weak and slow in the air, found its way to Kenji, who was strategically positioned in the area after all the confusion. He fired a volley, but a Karaso defender made a herculean effort to block the ball and deflect it into the left corner. Lucas saw Yukihiro on the ground and went over to help him. "Yukihiro, are you okay?" asked Lucas. "I''m fine." Forcing a smile as he accepted the help, Yukihiro replied. "Your ankle..." "It''s just a little cramp. Nothing I can''t handle." Lucas nodded, although he knew there was more to it. He put his hand on Yukihiro''s shoulder, a silent gesture of support. "Get in the box. We''ve still got time," Lucas said, taking the corner kick because that was usually Tsukada''s job. The referee allowed the corner to be taken, and Lucas prepared to take it. He raised his left arm and signaled a rehearsed move to his teammates. For corner kicks and set pieces, it was common for each team to have a few rehearsed moves. Wushia High School was no different, so they had a few basic moves. Raising one of their arms was a way of signaling to their teammates what the move was going to be. In the case of Wushia High School, raising the left arm was a signal that the ball was going to be played to the far post, meaning it would go through all the players, allowing them to use the confusion in the area to their advantage. "That''s it Tanaka, you have to pass it to me!!!" Nishida, with a grim and excited expression on his face, jumped higher than anyone else as the ball flew in. It looked like he had springs in his legs, such was the power and height of his leap. The opposing players were stunned by his momentum, hesitating for a brief second that proved to be crucial. Nishida arched his body in the air, preparing to head the ball with all his might. His muscles tensed, and in one powerful motion, he unleashed a header that sent the ball hurtling toward the goal. The Karaso High School goalkeeper, his eyes wide open, stretched as far as he could to reach the ball that seemed destined for his right corner. However, he could never reach the ball so quickly. Unfortunately, something unexpected happened. A defender from Karaso High School threw himself in front of the ball in a last-ditch effort. His head got in the way, and the ball hit him hard in the middle of his face, making a dry, frightening sound. Blood spurted from the defender''s nose, and he fell to the ground, dazed, but able to deflect the ball away from the goal. "Come on guys, it''s their counterattack!" Kenji shouted. Chapter 19 18 - Option to Pass The clock struck 38 minutes into the second half. There were only 7 minutes left before the final 45 minutes. If they were lucky, they would get 1 or 2 minutes of overtime because the game wasn''t very close. If they couldn''t decide, the game would go straight to penalty kicks. This was a short championship, and with games every day, the teams couldn''t tire themselves out with overtime. S§×ar?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.So at the end of the game, the field was literally in chaos. Everyone wanted to get it over with as quickly as possible. After the successful save on Nishida''s header, the Karaso High School players launched a desperate counterattack, while the Wushia High School defenders tried desperately to get back to their positions. Yukihiro saw all of his teammates running to help him get back on his feet, but at the first step, he felt his right ankle hurt again. If he went back now, he might not be able to attack again when the time was right. He had to decide what was most important. If Wushia High School scored now, everything would probably be lost. Karaso High School knew how to defend very well and would be able to hold out until the final whistle, so Yukihiro thought there was no point in thinking. He had to run to help. However... "Yukihiro! Stay there! I''ll bring you the ball!" Lucas shouted, looking at his teammate as he ran to help the defense. Yukihiro''s eyebrows arched in surprise, but he nodded, trusting Lucas - after all, Nishidawas doing the same thing at that very moment. Kenji, always alert, shouted instructions to his companions. "Jun, cover the left side! Nishi, close the middle!" He himself strategically positioned himself to intercept any pass the opponents attempted from the right side. The ball was quickly passed to the opponent''s half, where a Karaso High School player ran to the ball and kicked it forward with all his might. No one from Wushia High School understood why until the same player who had scored the first goal appeared like a ghost behind Nishi and kicked the ball into the net. Toshinori, the goalkeeper of Wushia High School, was alert. He clapped his hands and yelled: "Come on!" Any mistake could be fatal, but Toshinori was taller than most high school players. The skillful Karaso High striker threatened to dribble Toshinori out of play, as he had done for the first goal, but Toshinori was ready. The goalkeeper stepped forward with his arms outstretched. As he shot, the ball deflected off his fingertips and out of play. Kuwabara, who had run out to help with the defense, caught the ball and without hesitation passed it to Jun, who quickly connected with Kenji, who threw it forward to Yukihiro. Yukihiro, though still in pain, controlled the ball and started to run forward. It was a chance for him and Nishida, who was right in front of him. It would be two of them against three defenders. Yukihiro''s eyes were fixed on the ball, and the eyes of everyone on the field and in the stands on him created an almost palpable pressure on his back. He knew he had little time, only a few minutes separating his team from victory or defeat. Sweat dripped down his face, mixing with the dirt and fatigue that had accumulated over the course of the match. Nishidawas in the lead, and Yukihiro knew that he was the team''s best chance to score at the moment. But the three Karaso High School defenders moved in unison, like an impenetrable wall. A perfect counterattack. That was what they needed. ''Come on, you idiot, just a few more steps...'' Yukihiro thought, clenching his teeth. He continued to run. When he raised his head, he looked at Nishida, who was already in position to receive the pass. With a precise movement, Yukihiro kicked the ball to his teammate. Nishidareceived the ball with characteristic skill, using his chest to cushion the impact before letting it fall gently to his feet. He looked around quickly, assessing the situation. The remaining defenders were closing in, but he had a plan. "Come on, Nishida, you can do it!" someone shouted from the Wushia High School bench. Nishidabegan to move forward with the ball at his feet. A defender tried to clear the ball, but Nishidawas as strong as a battle tank and pushed him away with his shoulders. The Karaso High School goalkeeper, an older boy with quick reflexes, was in position to make what might be the most important save of the game. It would be goalie versus forward, one on one. Nishidawas never afraid to miss a goal. Absolutely never. This time would be no different. But he wasn''t afraid. He knew that he wasn''t having a good day, and the best thing for the team was for him to pass to Yukihiro, who was probably passing freely on the left side by now. That would guarantee a goal. So Nishidalooked to his left, expecting to see Yukihiro, but to his surprise, Yukihiro wasn''t there following Nishida''s advance. Nishidaglanced back and his heart raced as he realized that Yukihiro was on the ground, holding his ankle with an expression of pain. For a moment, despair threatened to overtake Nishida. Then he heard a cry. "Nishida! Over here! I''m free!" It was Lucas, running like an animal with his tongue hanging out. Lucas'' eyes shone with fierce determination, and he was partially free. Nishidaknew immediately what to do. He pushed the ball to Lucas with a simple pass, just as he and Lucas had practiced a thousand times the day before. Lucas received the pass and quickly advanced toward the opposing goalkeeper. The goalkeeper was experienced and managed to recover. He launched himself to block, but Lucas used the and slid the ball to his left with a quick, deceptive move. With the goalkeeper completely out of position, Lucas shot calmly. The ball crossed the goal line and rattled into the net. "GOOOOAL!" The words echoed around the field from various parts of the stadium, both in the stands, on the field, and on the Wushia High School bench. Yukihiro, who was still on the ground, smiled with relief and lay down on the grass. [You have completed the "Troubleshooter" bonus mission.] The system message appeared for Lucas. Chapter 20 19 - Hidefumi, The Best Defender While the team celebrated, coach Mr. Yamamoto kept an analytical eye on the field. Time was running out, and the advantage Wushia High School had just gained had to be protected tooth and nail. He realized that with Yukihiro''s injury and the end of the game; the defense needed to make a crucial adjustment."Guys, let''s focus on defense now!" Mr. Yamamoto shouted as his players returned to the left side of the field. "We need to keep this lead! Hey, Hidefumi, get up and come over here!" Hidefumi, a defender who seemed more interested in resting than playing, slowly got up from the bench. He looked a bit lazy, with dark circles under his eyes, and was an unusual player in that he always seemed to be in energy-saving mode. However, Hidefumi''s skill was undeniable. He was the kind of defensive player who, when on the field, seemed to know exactly where and when to position himself to neutralize any threat with the least amount of energy. Mr. Yamamoto gestured for Hidefumi to approach while a medical team from the tournament helped Yukihiro to his feet. Yukihiro''s face was pale with pain, but he smiled at Hidefumi as he walked over to him. "Good luck, Hidefumi." Yukihiro murmured in a tired tone. "Don''t let them score the equalizer." Hidefumi, his eyelids drooping slightly, nodded. His face was almost expressionless, as if he was facing a minor inconvenience rather than a high-pressure situation. But deep down, he knew how important this moment was. "Come on, Hidefumi!" yelled Mr. Yamamoto. "Play your game!" Lucas looked at Hidefumi and remembered. In the future where Lucas lived, where he was just a salaried office worker, Hidefumi didn''t get called up by big teams early on just because he was a defender and most scouts only paid attention to strikers. A few months later, however, Hidefumi had to change schools because his family had moved to Tokyo, so he excelled in the national league and worked his way up through the youth ranks of the Japanese national team to become a professional player in the J-LEAGUE. Hidefumi took the field with an almost Zen-like calm, positioning himself strategically with a relaxed body, but his eyes were like radar, picking up every movement of the Karaso High School players. The opponent''s first attack came quickly, as Karaso High School needed to find an equalizer. One of the Karaso attackers, a tall and agile player, thought he could get forward with the ball. Hidefumi moved to intercept, but he did so in an almost sleepy style. He didn''t run frantically or make any sudden moves; instead, he seemed to float across the field. Hidefumi slid in front of the attacker and stopped in front of him, looking directly into the attacker''s eyes. The attacker attempted a cunning dribble, but Hidefumi was there, blocking the way. He used his body to position himself correctly between the ball and the striker, who was trying desperately to foul him. "That''s right, Hidefumi!" the coach shouted from the bench. "The most efficient way to buy time is to stop the game. So that''s what I''m going to do today." Hidefumi said to Kuwabara, who just swallowed and nodded. Kuwabara was afraid of Hidefumi because he had his own theory that Hidefumi was a zombie. The next minutes of the match passed quickly. Karaso High School had a solid defense, so they played on the counterattack. However, when Hidefumi came on, Wushia High School switched to a 4-4-2 formation, with only Lucas and Nishidaup front. This new formation brought visible stability to Lucas'' team. The defense was more solid, and the midfield could gain some possession. As the match went into extra time, High School Karaso seemed to lack the same attacking vigor; their efforts were weak and disorganized. Finally, the referee blew the final whistle, and the Wushia High School bench erupted in celebration of the team''s first win in years. Relief and joy were evident on the faces of the players as they hugged each other and celebrated the hard-fought victory. In the stands, some spectators began to comment. "Wushia High School really won... It''s my first time watching this championship, but shouldn''t they be the underdogs?" A middle-aged man asked the old man. S§×arch* The N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. The old man smiled. "As a technical analyst, you should not be so attached to rumors, Fushiguro. Wushia High School has a history of perseverance and determination. Besides, they seem to have some interesting pieces this year." Chapter 21 20 - Mysterious Reward Minutes later, in the locker room of the Wushia High School soccer club, everyone was tired, exhausted.The players, still panting and sweating, were scattered around the room. Some sat on the bench, others on the cold floor. Goalkeeper Toshinori rested his back on the bench and threw a sweaty towel over his shoulder. "Do you think every game will be as exhausting as this one?" Toshinori asked the others. Kuwabara took a drink of water and answered: "Tiring? What are you talking about? Goalkeepers don''t even get tired." "Are you kidding?" Toshinori raised an eyebrow. "It''s too exhausting to be in the back concentrating all the time, even if you''re not in the game all the time." The conversation was becoming lighthearted, a brief respite from the tension of the game. Suddenly, the locker room door opened with a soft creak, and Mr. Yamamoto walked in. He was holding a folder of documents, and his eyes looked a little more serious than usual. "Everyone, please gather here for a brief discussion." Mr. Yamamoto asked, his voice echoing slightly in the quiet room. The players began to gather around Mr. Yamamoto, all of them confused. "About the next game..." Mr. Yamamoto pulled a piece of paper out of his briefcase and looked at everyone with a serious expression. "We''re playing Itou High School." Confused looks and a series of silent questions arose among the players. Nishidafrowned and asked: "Itou High School? I''ve never heard of them." Mr. Yamamoto''s expression remained serious. "Itou High School isn''t very well known because it''s in Aichi Prefecture. However, they have a player who did something extraordinary in today''s game. Shinto Ishikuno is his name." The name echoed through the silent locker room, but most of the players were still confused. "Shinto Ishikuno?" Kenji asked. "Yes. Shinto Ishikuno is a phenomenal player. In the game that took place earlier, he scored all six goals in the match." A stunned silence fell over the locker room. Without saying anything, everyone understood that if a player was able to score six goals by himself, it meant that he possessed extraordinary talent, a monstrous level of skill. It was likely that an ordinary player could score three goals in a soccer match, a hat trick, because scoring goals was just the result of a series of actions. However, a single player scoring six goals was highly unlikely, especially in a league like this. "Six goals in one game?" Kuwabara asked, stunned. "That''s... impossible." "It''s not impossible, it''s just rare," Yamamoto said. "And that''s why we have to be prepared. Ishikuno is known for his ability to dribble and create almost impossible chances. If I could compare him to any famous player, I''d say he''s a Neymar-type player." There was a moment of silence as everyone absorbed the information. "Like Neymar? Does that mean he''s a monster who holds the ball up and passes it to anyone with improvised dribbles?" One player from Wushia High School asked. "Yes. I know we''ve just finished a tiring game, but the next game against Itou High School will put us in the real tournament bracket. We already knew that we''d face some great players in this tournament, and that''s why we''re all here." "Right!" The Wushia High School players immediately agreed. Mr. Yamamoto looked around and noticed Lucas'' absence. "Oh, by the way, Lucas is the only one who isn''t here. Where is he?" he asked, looking at Nishida. "He told me he went to check on Yukihiro in the infirmary." "Strange, I just came from there." Mr. Yamamoto scratched at his unshaven beard. In fact, Lucas Tanaka was sitting on the toilet seat in one of the stadium''s public restrooms. With the door closed, Lucas had the slightly bluish light of a system monitor in his face. He sighed and said: "Finally... I can''t believe I did it." The glow of the notification was a message from the Champion system that read: S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. [You have completed the "Troubleshooter" mission bonus!] [You have received +1 Uncommon Loot Box]. [You have received +1 Common Card]. "The loot boxes are now always displayed as uncommon. Does that mean that what''s inside is rarer?" Lucas thought aloud. "Besides, I won a card... Okay, let''s do this in parts. First, I want to see what this ordinary card is that seems to be the mysterious reward from earlier." He muttered to himself, tapping at the notification with a finger trembling with anticipation. When he touched the card notification, a surprisingly bright floating letter appeared in front of him. The letter seemed to be made of a material that oscillated between the physical and the ethereal, glowing with a soft gray radiance. A [Reveal] button was in the center of the card. With a hesitant movement, Lucas extended his right index finger and clicked the button to reveal the contents of the letter. The letter was revealed with a faint crackling sound, like a stream of air passing through a field of dry leaves. A bluish light emerged from inside the letter. A floating message appeared in front of Lucas. [Congratulations, you have obtained the Common Skill: Quick Vegetable Slicer.] Lucas blinked in confusion as the information settled in his mind. "Quick Vegetable Slicer? What the hell is that, System? How is that going to help me with soccer?" He thought aloud again, frowning. This skill was as irrelevant to Lucas as straw was to an architect. Frustrated, he decided to forget about it for now and open the two Uncommon Loot Boxes he had received. He tapped on the notification of the first Uncommon Loot Box. Immediately, a floating, ornate box appeared in front of him, spinning slowly while emitting a blue-green glow. Lucas took a deep breath and opened the box with a light touch. The loot box revealed a bottle of yellow liquid. [You have received 1 Rapid Recovery Elixir.] Lucas took the bottle and felt the cold substance on his skin. "Rapid Recovery Elixir, this is..." [This elixir will instantly restore 50% of your energy and cure your fatigue.] "That''s great." Lucas muttered, putting the vial in his inventory. "Now let''s see the second loot box." With the same anticipation, he touched the second uncommon loot box. The box spun and glowed before opening, revealing a bracelet-like object made of a silver metal that shone brightly. [You have received 1 weight bracelet.] [This bracelet weighs 20kg. It can be useful for you to train your strength]. Lucas smiled bitterly as he took the bracelet. "This will come in handy... sometime... I think..." Chapter 22 21 - Flirt With the bracelet in his inventory, Lucas Tanaka left the bathroom. He was on his way to the infirmary, as he had promised his teammates, when he almost bumped into a blue-haired girl standing there, as if waiting for someone.Their eyes met briefly, and Lucas remembered seeing her outside the bus on the first day. She looked just as serious as before. "Sorry," he said, taking a step back to avoid shock. "You''re Lucas Tanaka, right? From Wushia High School?" She asked without apologizing. "Yes, I am." Lucas raised an eyebrow, confused by her tone. "And you are?" "Hasumi Seiya, from Hanrahan High School. I saw you play earlier." She crossed her arms and looked at him so steadily that he felt a little uncomfortable. "Ah, yes. I hope you liked what you saw," he replied, trying to be polite while feeling nervous at her serious look. Hasumi let out a short, dry laugh. "Did I? Actually, I thought you played like an animal." Lucas frowned. "What did you say?" "I mean, you have no finesse. You replaced the other number 10, and you''re even a little better, but a real number 10 plays with elegance, like he''s wearing a suit. You just run around like a wild man. You''re desperate, you''re rash, you don''t show any composure at all. Even during the game, you look scared." The criticism hit Lucas like a punch in the gut, and he felt the blood rush to his head. "Really? And what do you know about soccer? Have you ever played?" "More than you know," she replied without flinching. "And I''ll go further in my criticism... If you keep playing like this, you''ll never be a professional." Lucas gritted his teeth and tried to remain calm. "I play my way. And so far it''s worked out very well." "Well? I wouldn''t say it''s been good. I don''t know if you''re aware, but your team''s first two games are just qualifiers for the main bracket of this summer''s tournament." Every syllable of the criticism seemed to resonate like a gong, echoing in the self-confidence of the defeated Lucas of the future. He knew that anger could easily take over, so he decided to take a deep breath before answering her again. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. "I know I''m not perfect. I know I have a lot to improve on, and that''s why I keep trying every day." Hasumi raised an eyebrow, obviously surprised by Lucas'' answer. She didn''t want to provoke an explosive reaction from him, but she knew that it was normal for boys his age not to take harsh words from strangers like her so easily. It would be normal if he decided to call her names, because that''s what she usually got when she criticized the players at her school. "But..." Lucas continued, taking a step forward. "...my style of play will never change because of criticism. I''m going to play any way I can to keep winning. I don''t have to be the same as other No10s to be good. I may not have the elegance of a player like Kaka or Messi, but I have the strength and passion that makes me chase the ball like a hungry monster. And it''s that passion that will take me far. Now, if you''ll excuse me, I have an appointment at the infirmary." Turning away, Lucas continued on his way. Hasumi stood for a few moments. She had never expected someone to respond to her criticism with such calmness. As Lucas walked away, he felt the weight of Hasumi''s words a little. He managed to answer her, but he wasn''t sure if he really looked scared during the game. Did the others see me like that? At least he knew now that he had to work on his calm and control during the game, because the system wouldn''t help him with that. Arriving at the stadium''s infirmary, Lucas pushed open the door and entered what looked like the reception area. The atmosphere was quieter than expected. A young woman in her early twenties looked up from the papers on the table and smiled when she saw him. "Ah, come in, please." She asked, her voice echoing through the empty reception area. "Hello, my name is Lucas Tanaka. I''m from the soccer club at Wushia High School. I came to see how Yukihiro is doing. He was injured during the game." "Yukihiro? He was taken care of earlier, but he''s out now. My colleague brought him to your locker room after taping his sprained ankle. He didn''t have to stay because it was only a slight sprain, but I don''t think he''ll be able to play for at least three days." Three days? That means he''ll be out of the game tomorrow and the day after. Lucas thought, worried because Yukihiro was the only speedster on their team. "I see," Lucas said, bowing his head in thanks to the nurse. "Thank you for the information." He turned to leave the infirmary when an unexpected message appeared in his peripheral vision. A message from the Champion system. The text floated in front of his eyes, clear and concise: [New Mission!] [Mission Name: Flirt Description: You wasted your life between High School and work. Then you focused on working as hard as possible to please your superiors. That didn''t make you popular with the girls, but maybe that can change now. Objective: Kiss the nurse named Moeka Tahara. Rewards: + 1 Uncommon loot box. + 1 Mysterious Card]. Lucas froze, his heart racing. The idea seemed absurd, completely out of context, and invasive. He didn''t know how to react. There was no penalty for not completing the mission, but if he succeeded, he would receive +1 Mystery Letter. He glanced at the nurse, who had gone back to concentrating on her papers, oblivious to the internal conflict he was experiencing. Chapter 23 22 - Approaching [... Goal: Kiss the nurse named Moeka Tahara...]Lucas stood motionless, feeling his heart pounding in his chest as he stared at the system message. He took a deep breath to calm his nerves and began to think about whether he should try to complete this mission or not. If so, how would he do it? Stealing a kiss was certainly not an option, so he had to find a way to win the nurse over. This challenge seemed even more difficult than the previous one. Moeka was older, not by much, but enough that she might not even consider him as a potential mate. As such, Lucas thought that if he tried to flirt with her, he would definitely be rejected or ignored. ''Still, it would be great to get another skill card. He thought.'' Lucas also didn''t know how rare the opportunities to get such rewards would be, so he thought he should at least try. So Lucas slowly turned around and watched Moeka Tahara as she concentrated on her papers. Her appearance was quiet, with black hair pulled back in a ponytail and a gentle face with blue eyes. She conveyed calm. In fact, she even looked a little sleepy, her eyelids drooping slightly. Sear?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. "Uh, sorry..." He said, causing Moeka to raise her eyes again. "You''re a nurse, right? My ankle''s been hurting a little since the game ended. Could you take a look?" Moeka immediately put the papers aside and looked worried. "Sure, no problem. Come here so I can take a look at you." She pulled back a curtain just behind her and revealed a free stretcher. Lucas walked over to the gurney, limping a little. He sat down and began to remove his boot, exposing his ankle. Moeka approached and pulled out a small wheelchair to sit beside him. "Let''s have a look..." she said in a calm voice and began to examine Lucas'' ankle, pressing lightly at various points to check for any signs of pain or swelling. Lucas tried not to flinch too much, walking the fine line between feigning pain and not overdoing it. "That''s right... It hurt a little when you squeezed." Moeka had a focused look. "It doesn''t look that serious, maybe just a muscle strain from the intensity of the game. I''ll bandage it to support it and keep it from getting worse." Still sitting, Moeka threw back her chair and picked up a case from a table. Inside were bandage strips, which she began to work around Lucas'' ankle. "Have you been playing long?" she asked casually, trying to make conversation as she bandaged his ankle. "Since I was a kid. Soccer''s always been a big part of my life." Moeka smiled. "That''s great. Sports can teach you a lot of important lessons, like teamwork and discipline." "Yes, definitely. By the way, what''s your name?" They continued to chat while Moeka finished bandaging her ankle. Lucas discovered that she was not only skilled at her job but also an incredibly kind and considerate person, for it was her day off at the hospital where she normally worked, and she was there volunteering for a day at this championship. "There," she said finally, after cutting the last piece of ribbon. "This should help keep everything in place." "Thank you, Ms. Tahara," Lucas said with a sincere smile as he wiggled his bandaged ankle to test its firmness. "I don''t even feel any pain anymore." Moeka smiled back. "I''m glad to hear that." Lucas slowly stood and began to pull his boot back on. As he did so, he tried to think of the best way to ask the next question without scaring the nurse. "Moeka, I was thinking... you must work a lot. Have you thought about taking some time off to do something fun?" Moeka looked at him curiously, her fingers still fiddling with the first aid supplies to store them properly. "Well, we all need some time to relax now and then, but what are you getting at?" Surely this wasn''t the first time he''d been catcalled. In a way, though, it seemed innocent. "I was wondering if you''d like to go out with me sometime. Nothing too complicated, just... grab a coffee, maybe watch a movie..." Lucas said and then regretted it in his mind: ''Shit, I said it! I really did!'' Moeka blinked a few times, obviously surprised. She hadn''t expected this and the suggestion had taken her by surprise. She stopped fiddling with the materials and looked directly at Lucas, assessing him. Soon she realized that Lucas wasn''t ugly. In fact, he was better looking than many boys his age and had a good physique. "How old are you?" She asked. "Sixteen," Lucas replied. "Hmm. Too young to even drink coffee... You''re very kind, but I''m older than you." She tucked a lock of hair behind her ear. "I''m twenty. It may not seem like much, but it''s enough to make it a little... inappropriate." ''Wait, she''s only twenty? By the breasts... I mean, from the mature look, I thought she was older.'' Lucas thought and smiled, trying to keep his tone light. "I understand and I respect that. I don''t want to put you in an awkward situation." Moeka sighed, a little confused. "I''m relieved to hear that." "However, if you don''t mind, I would like to invite you to watch my next game. Perhaps you will reconsider after that." Moeka thought for a moment. ''He is a handsome young man. There are a lot of girls out there, so why does he only flirt with me? Does he think I''m easy and that he''s needy because he''s too focused on work?'' Moeka thought, freaking out at the theories that were forming in her mind. "Come on, one game is nothing. There will be lots of other people in the stands. No one will notice that you''re there for me." Lucas said, sounding confident. "Watching your game, huh? That sounds more reasonable. Who knows, maybe I can take another day off from the hospital and maybe I''ll show up in the stands..." Lucas smiled. "Glad to hear it. I''ll wait for you." Moeka didn''t smile back and turned her back to the table where the materials were. This time, she only pretended to do something because she was too embarrassed to look him in the eye. "Now get some rest and take care of that ankle." Lucas nodded and thanked her again before leaving the infirmary. He hadn''t gotten the kiss; he hadn''t even come close, but the mission didn''t give him a time limit, so there was no reason for him to rush. The rewards wouldn''t disappear and the mission wouldn''t expire. Besides, he had made an important step towards establishing a connection with Moeka. And that in itself was a small victory. Chapter 24 23 - Shinto Ishikuno When Lucas Tanaka learned that his next match would be against Itou High School, his eyebrows raised in surprise. He immediately remembered that in his past life, Itou High School had become famous throughout Japan after revealing a prodigy player named Shinto Ishikuno.In general, Japanese players were known for their intelligence and passing skills. As a result, throughout the history of Japanese soccer, the national team has never had a player who could be called a magician or a wizard. These nicknames were usually given to players with surprising and unusual creative abilities with the ball, such as Neymar, Robinho, and Ronaldinho Ga¨²cho. However, Shinto Ishikuno was a different kind of Japanese player, someone who didn''t take kindly to the teachings of Japanese soccer schools to always play the ball. Ishikuno was a born dribbler, a one-on-one monster. If he was Wushia High School''s next opponent, Lucas Tanaka knew he was in trouble. Even with the champion''s system, he wasn''t capable of simply picking up the ball on his own, passing through five players, and scoring, but Ishikuno might be. "I need to come up with a contingency plan for this guy..." Lucas thought as he boarded the bus to return to the hotel. Players with quick improvisation skills like Ishikuno were unpredictable. But even an unprecedented tactic to stop them was no guarantee. The bus rocked gently, soothing Lucas'' thoughts. He looked at his fellow passengers. Some were dozing, others talking softly. They were tired. No one wanted to talk about the next game, at least not yet. It was a moment of calm before the storm, but Lucas didn''t want to sit still. So Lucas looked at Nishida, who was known for his inflated ego and his insatiable hunger for goals. If there was anyone who could be pushed beyond his own limits to get the better of someone like Ishikuno, it was definitely Nishida. Lucas slowly rose from his seat and walked down the aisle until he stopped next to Nishida. Nishida''s eyes were closed, but Lucas knew he wasn''t asleep. He leaned over and whispered: "Nishida, I need to talk to you." Nishida opened one eye and looked at Lucas with a raised eyebrow. "What''s the matter, Tanaka? Aren''t you tired enough from playing?" "I''m thinking about something. It''s about the next game." Lucas said and sat down on the empty seat next to Nishida. "Itou High School has a player you must meet. Shinto Ishikuno. He''s a wizard with the ball." Nishida straightened up in his seat, now fully awake. "So what? What does that have to do with me?" Lucas smiled slightly. "It has everything to do with you. Ishikuno is the kind of player who can single-handedly decide a game. He scored six goals alone in their first league game." "Yes, I''ve heard that story." "You know that if he shines, he''ll overshadow you, right? But if you can score a lot of goals, show that you''re the real star on the field, we can destabilize their team. You don''t want to be overshadowed, do you?" Nishida frowned. "No one shines brighter on the field than I do. I''m going to show that Ishikuno that dribbling means nothing to soccer when it''s finishing that scores goals." "That''s what I wanted to hear. We need you at your best. You can''t keep missing goals like you did in the first game." A vein popped into Nishida''s forehead and he clucked his tongue. "Tsk! That''s because you made me practice only passes for days. Next time I''ll score six goals." Sear?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. With Nishida motivated, Lucas returned to his seat. He knew he had planted the right seed in his colleague''s heart. Now he had to think of a way to stop or hinder Ishikuno. He wasn''t very good at defending himself, and he hadn''t yet acquired a skill that could help him with that. Besides, Wushia High School itself wasn''t very good at defending. If Lucas could name one quality of his team, it would be their organized midfield and their speed in connecting attacks, but defense was definitely a problem. Their best hope was Hidefumi, the reserve defender. He had a solid defense, capable of stopping some of Ishikuno''s advances. However, there was the problem that Hidefumi was extremely lazy, so he started most of the games as a substitute and sometimes didn''t even play. His motivation wasn''t very high either, and his mental state was weak. When Hidefumi came across a good striker, he quickly became discouraged. ''I have to find a way to motivate Hidefumi.'' Lucas concluded. The next morning, sunlight streamed through the windows of the hotel cafeteria where the Wushia High School players were staying. Nishida entered the cafeteria with his usual serious expression. He saw Lucas working at the buffet and frowned. He approached Kuwabara who was filling his plate with scrambled eggs, sausages, bread and whatever else he had. "What''s going on over there?", Nishida asked, pointing with his chin at Lucas, who was carefully assembling a plate of breakfast. Kuwabara shrugged. "I don''t know. Looks like Lucas is up to something." Nishida grumbled with a skeptical expression. "Of course he is. He''s always thinking too much." Hidefumi yawned and sat down. Then a tray full of healthy food was placed in front of him by Lucas. "Tanaka, why are you doing this?" "I want to make sure that you have enough energy for the game. We need you to be at your best today because you''re going to be a starter, right?" Lucas carefully selected items that would provide energy without burdening his stomach: rice, grilled fish, some natto, and fresh vegetables. He also set out a bowl of miso soup and a serving of fresh fruit. It was a lot of food, but nutritious food. Hidefumi sighed and took the chopsticks, not refusing the food that Lucas had prepared without Hidefumi asking. "Holder? I didn''t hear anything about it when I talked to Mr. Yamamoto yesterday." "No need. I already sent him a message, and he agreed with me. You''ll be an appetizer today." Hidefumi started to eat and asked with his mouth full: "You''re doing this today because you''re afraid we''ll lose the next game, right? Why do you care so much about soccer?" "Because without soccer, I''ll be just another office worker and bachelor in my thirties. I don''t want that." "Huh? You''re more pessimistic than I thought." Chapter 25 24 - Itou College The next day, the Asset Minato Soccer Stadium was much fuller than Lucas and the others had expected for a pre-qualifying match. The reason, however, had a first and last name: Shinto Ishikuno.Ishikuno was known for his extraordinary soccer skills, his unpredictable style of play, and the almost playful way he dribbled past his opponents. The anticipation of seeing him in action had attracted a crowd of fans, onlookers, and scouts. The atmosphere was much more electric than on the first day of the championship, with anxious murmurs echoing through the packed stands. Lucas was a little nervous, as were Hidefumi and the rest of the Wushia High School team. "Hu... I don''t know if I can play for a long today. It''s too hot..." Hidefumi commented. Kuwabara, the smallest player on the team and the right back, slapped Hidefumi''s back. A slap! "Stop being lazy, man! If you start slogging it out on the field too early, the girls in the stands will be disappointed!" Kuwabara said, already looking at a trio of girls in the front row. S~ea??h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. At that moment, however, the same girls stood up and held up a large sign with letters that read: "Go, Shinto ! Dribble, Shinto !" Little Kuwabara felt as if an arrow had pierced his heart and his shoulders slumped. "Ahh... you really can''t compete with the talented, even in love..." Mr. Yamamoto gave them one last motivational talk in the locker room, stressing the importance of discipline, teamwork, and concentration in winning. However, Mr. Yamamoto exuded a sense of a false smile that disturbed everyone. It was as if losing to the team that was one of the heavy favorites in the championship was something natural. "You know what to do. Let''s focus on the game, play the way we practiced and not be intimidated," Kenji stressed, trying to cheer the team up. Lucas was more nervous than usual. After his performance in the last game, he was finally getting his chance to start. The bad part was that he wouldn''t be playing a position he was used to. Yukihiro wasn''t able to play this game due to a minor ankle injury, so Lucas formed an attacking duo with Nishida, who was a fast player, had already shown that he could play as a striker, and had a good ability to cross. Everything a winger needed, at least a backup. Lucas'' hands were sweaty and his heart was pounding as he stepped onto the field. He took a deep breath, trying to calm his nerves as he mentally prepared for the challenge ahead. ''So this is what it feels like to be a starter in a championship game? I experienced it in kindergarten, but those school championships were too small for me to be nervous.'' "Come on, Lucas!" Tsukada gave him an encouraging pat on the back. "You stole Yukihiro''s spot, didn''t you? At least try to look confident." Tsukada had a cynical look on his face. He knew that Lucas wasn''t at Yukihiro''s place of his own free will. "It''s a pity that Mr. Yamamoto decided that I was better than you and didn''t leave you as number 10. I would have loved to play as a winger. You know, just run and cross the ball. There''s no secret to it." Tsukada''s words quickly began to irritate Lucas. He didn''t mind hearing slander about himself, as he''d gotten used to it from working with such an asshole boss in his previous life, but it was completely different when other people''s names were involved. "Better than me? Don''t make me laugh. What did you do in the first game to be better than me?" Lucas asked, looking into Tsukada''s eyes without fear of retaliation or debauchery. Tsukada gritted his teeth. ''How can this idiot, who has never won anything in his life, act like this after scoring only one goal in a championship?'' He thought and then said: "It''s not in my interest to discuss these things in public, but at least play properly today and pass me the ball so I can score the winning goal." Lucas didn''t answer Tsukada. He simply turned and walked to midfield, where Nishida was waiting with the ball. On the other side of the field, the Itou High School players were also positioning themselves, and Ishikuno''s figure stood out among them, with her tousled hair, yellow eyes, and calm expression. A coin was tossed to decide who would start with the ball. Kenji, representing Wushia High School, watched intently as the coin spun in the air, glistening in the intense sunlight. When it finally hit the ground, the referee announced that Wushia High School would have first possession. Lucas and Nishida waited for the referee''s permission to kick off. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath. It was crucial that he stay focused and execute the game plan to perfection. When he opened his eyes, he noticed that Shinto Ishikuno had tied his boot a few moments ago, as if he was in no hurry at all. The scene seemed strange, almost surreal, considering how tense everyone was at Wushia High School. "Look at that smug idiot..." muttered Nishida. "He''s tying his boots just as the game is about to start. He''s got to be kidding us." Lucas frowned, but couldn''t help smiling slightly. Ishikuno really did seem to be in a world of his own, oblivious to the pressures of the moment. "Maybe it''s his way of concentrating," Lucas suggested, trying to stay calm. "In any case, I''m going to knead him." Nishida declared. Just then, a window appeared in the champion system for Lucas. [New Mission!] [Mission Name: Defeat the Sleeping Monster Description: Shinto Ishikuno is the star of his second match in the Chubu Region Summer Championships. All eyes and cameras are on this one of Japan''s top talents and one of the JFA''s biggest bets on the next generation of soccer players. It would be funny if he was overshadowed, wouldn''t it? Goal: Overshadow Shinto Ishikuno''s game by drawing more attention to yourself. Rewards: + 1 Epic loot box. + 200 Star Points + 10 attribute points +1 Uncommon Mystery Card]. Lucas Tanaka took a deep breath and kicked off after the referee''s whistle. The ball rolled smoothly across the field, and the match finally began. Chapter 26 25 - The Art of Dribbling As the referee blew the whistle to start the match, Lucas Tanaka took one last look at Ishikuno.The match was about to begin, and Leo knew that every move, every pass, and every decision would be crucial if he were to complete his mission. But he wasn''t doing it just for a few rewards. He was doing it for his dream of becoming a professional. Lucas felt a chill run down his spine as the sharp sound of the whistle cut through the air, and he knew it was time. Nishida wasted no time, and with his muscles giving him a frightening burst of strength, he immediately went on the attack. "Lucas, over here! Let''s teach these idiots that, in soccer, the man who scores the most goals wins!" Nishida shouted, shooting across the field like an unstoppable battle tank. Lucas knew that Nishida was determined to score a goal quickly and silence any doubts about his abilities. He would trust Nishida with his life if he had to, so Lucas threw a precise pass, just as Nishida had asked, which raced towards the opponent''s goal and sliced through the Itou High School formation like a pair of scissors, or rather a machete. Nishida smiled confidently as he felt the familiar touch of the ball at his feet, already imagining the moment when it would find the back of the net. Suddenly, something unexpected happened. In a split second, Nishida realized that he was running without the ball. Confused, he looked back and saw the agile figure of Shinto Ishikuno running with the ball in his possession. Ishikuno''s playful face had appeared, making his serious expression disappear. "I can''t believe it... He took the ball from me!" Nishida muttered in disbelief. Determined to regain control, he ran after Ishikuno, but he was already too fast. Ishikuno ran towards Lucas who, seeing the situation, didn''t want to risk his luck. "Defend! Don''t let them through!" Lucas shouted to his companions as he moved to block Ishikuno''s advance. "They won''t get past me!" Lucas shouted, preparing for a direct confrontation. Ishikuno stopped, smiling slightly, his eyes gleaming with excitement. "Let''s see then!" He replied before performing an impressive dribble, sweeping his right leg over the ball and making it disappear like a magic trick. Lucas blinked twice, not understanding what the hell had happened. He had no doubt that the ball had literally disappeared. However, a few moments later, when Ishikuno ran past him without the ball, Lucas heard the sound of the ball and realized that what Ishikuno had done was to hide the ball while doing a backheel flick to pass it to a teammate. Thus, the sound of the ball being touched that Lucas heard was the sound of Ishikuno''s teammate completing a triangulation that left Lucas lost. Ishikuno began to run past one defender after another, keeping the ball close to his feet as if glued to them. He exchanged quick glances with his teammates, signaling the next move. Keisuke, one of Itou High School''s forwards, positioned himself to receive a pass, while Takeshi, another player, prepared for a possible rebound. Ishikuno skillfully dribbled around the Wushia High School defenders. The Itou High School players were far away, not giving Ishikuno many passing options, but he still advanced on his own. Kenji tried to close the space, but Ishikuno had already anticipated it. With a quick turn, he evaded Kenji and left him behind. Fortunately, Hidefumi covered Kenji''s mistake and kicked the ball away from Ishikuno''s feet, sending it to the side of the field and ending the frighteningly promising attack that Ishikuno had created. Surprisingly, the Wushia High School players were already panting, not from fatigue, but from their hearts racing. "Are we going to have to endure this for another 89 minutes?" Kuwabara asked in a cold sweat. Lucas looked at his teammates and saw the same startled expression on their faces. Ishikuno was that kind of player, a monster capable of terrifying opponents with his superhuman talent. Takeshi, a player from Itou High School, saw the scene of the Wushia High School players being frightened by Ishikuno and smiled a little nervously. ''I don''t blame them for being scared. I was the same way when I saw Shinto play for the first time...'' Hidefumi, however, seemed calm. He had saved the team with a shot that averted the immediate danger. Sear?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. "Well done, Hidefumi!" Lucas shouted and gave him a nod of appreciation. Hidefumi smiled back only briefly and straightened his headband, which was starting to slip due to sweat. "We have to keep an eye on Ishikuno." Hidefumi said in a serious tone. "He is fast, unpredictable. If we can surround him and not give him any space, we can mitigate the threat." Wushia High School would have to work as a team to take on a player like Ishikuno. Ishikuno looked around the field, analyzing the formation of the opposing team. Keisuke and Takeshi, his teammates, were strategically positioned off to the side, waiting for an opportunity to receive the ball and help with the attack. The referee blew his whistle to allow a corner kick. The ball was put into play and was soon in the possession of Wushia High School, where Hidefumi took it again. He looked for Lucas, who was already in a favorable position in the midfield. Hidefumi passed the ball to Kenji, who passed it on to Lucas. "Let''s go." Lucas muttered to himself and ran like a winger. He picked up the ball and made a long pass to Nishida. Combining defense and offense with quick passes was Wushia High School''s specialty. At least, that''s what this team had been doing best since they started playing together six months ago. Lucas made a long pass to Nishida, who was further up the field. Nishida controlled the ball and charged forward, his imposing presence cutting through the opposing defense. Keisuke, Itou High School''s #12, was nearby and ran towards Nishidato try to intercept the ball. However, Nishida didn''t lose his cool and passed to Kuwabara, who was approaching from the side. Kuwabara was small, but he was a little faster than their right winger, so a few weeks ago, Mr. Yamamoto practiced a position reversal and had Kuwabara go forward with some special moves. Kuwabara ran down the right sideline with a smile on his face and his eyes fixed on the opposing goal. ''This is where I get to consecrate myself with the babes watching!'' He crossed the ball to the center of the field, where Lucas, Nishida, and Tsukada were already positioned. Lucas tried to jump with , but... [ failed]. His chance of jumping as high as Nishida was about 15%. In other words, he couldn''t do it every time. Luckily, Nishida was there to show off his No. 9 skills, and he jumped higher than any defender to head the ball into the goal. Nishida headed the ball powerfully into the left corner of the net, leaving the goalkeeper no chance. The High School Itou goalkeeper stretched but couldn''t reach the ball. The ball went into the right corner of the goal, and the stadium erupted in applause. Nishida ran to the stands to celebrate. "That''s it!" Lucas shouted, jumping onto Nishida''s back. "I''M THE BEST!" Nishida said, opening his arms to the crowd. Chapter 27 26 - Skill Characteristic [Wushia High School 1-0 Itou High School.]Cheers echoed through the stands as Lucas and his teammates hugged each other in celebration of Nishida''s goal. On the other side of the field, however, Ishikuno stood watching the scene with an unusual expression on his face. His mischievous smile had not disappeared; in fact, it seemed to have grown more intense. When Lucas'' eyes met Ishikuno''s, he noticed something different. It wasn''t just the usual competitiveness of a soccer player. There was a brightness, an intensity you don''t see every day. Ishikuno wasn''t discouraged by the goal; he was excited, almost as if this was the opportunity he had been waiting for to show off his soccer skills, almost as if he was more excited to face us with the score against us than before. Hidefumi, who was closest to Ishikuno, felt a chill run down his spine. It was a strange feeling, a mixture of admiration and fear. ''No one should look so excited after scoring a goal.'' Hidefumi thought, frowning. He knew that Ishikuno was talented, but there was something else, something almost monstrous in the way he thought. When the game started again, Ishikuno''s position changed immediately. He moved between defense, midfield, and offense, as if floating on the field, creating offensive opportunities. Every time he touched the ball, he seemed to be one step ahead of the Wushia defenders. Hidefumi tried to remain confident, but it was hard not to be overwhelmed by Ishikuno''s imposing presence. "Shit, stop him!" shouted Lucas, trying to run after Ishikuno after a dribble that left him on the ground. Ishikuno advanced down the left flank, masterfully dribbling past the Wushia players. He made a quick pass to one of his teammates, who quickly returned the ball after Ishikuno passed behind Kenji. Ishikuno was getting dangerously close to the area, and Lucas knew he had to act quickly. He stood up and ran toward Ishikuno, determined to stop him even if it meant fouling him, but the Itou High School prodigy was already far away. With an agile movement, Ishikuno executed a perfect spin as Hidefumi tried to stop him, dribbling past him. He then cut in from the left, pulling the ball close to his body to shake off a tackle from Kuwabara and found himself face-to-face with the Wushia School goalkeeper. Ishikuno smiled, a smile that Lucas began to understand meant trouble. He kicked the ball, aiming for what the South Americans called the ''drawer''. Toshinori, Wushia''s goalkeeper, stretched as far as he could, but the ball flew past him and into the goal with a deafening noise. The stadium exploded again, this time even louder. Ishikuno raised his arms and ran to hug his teammates. At that moment, Lucas felt as if Ishikuno had put the entire weight of the stadium on his back. The game had been tied, and despite everything, it didn''t mean that Wushia High School had lost. However, the crowd was mostly in favor of Itou High School. "Come on, guys! We''re still in the game!" shouted Tsukada, clapping his hands and trying to pump up his team. "We need to keep attacking from the wings. It''s our best chance! They''re all good players, but we already knew that, didn''t we?" Kuwabara vigorously agreed. "That''s it! Let''s show them why we train so hard." For his part, Nishida was already in the middle of the field, waiting for the Itou High School players to return so that the game could be restarted. Nishidahad an irritated look on his face and probably a bruised ego. He was used to being the star of every game, the top scorer, so his irritation was more about ambition than anything else. Lucas went up to him with the intention of asking him to repeat the play from earlier in the game, when Nishida had shredded their defense from the start. But Nishida spoke to him first. "Lucas, you need to play better." He wasn''t looking at Lucas, but at the Itou High School boys, who were returning to their seats at the referee''s command. "Our team needs everyone to think about playing soccer." From the start of the game, Lucas'' attention was almost exclusively on Ishikuno, as if he had become a shadow of the Itou High School prodigy. This was not only a tactical problem but also a lack of confidence. Lucas had proven himself to be a necessary player for his team, no wonder he had become a starter, but this second match of his was far from the quality he had shown in the first. Lucas took a deep breath and nodded, even though Nishida wasn''t looking at him. The referee blew his whistle, signaling that the match could resume. With a grim expression on his face, Nishida kicked the ball to Kenji, who quickly passed it to Tsukada, and the game was back on. Wushia High School needed to regain their rhythm, and Lucas knew that this depended not only on good strategy, but also on good execution. At midfield, Lucas'' eyes scanned the field, looking for an opening. He looked at Ishikuno, who was also scanning the field. ''So. that''s how he does it, he knows where he''s going even as he''s acting. Up close it looks like pure improvisation, but from a distance you can see he''s thinking.'' Lucas could copy one skill per day with , but the use of this skill was limited by three characteristics. The first and second limitations were that this skill only worked once a day and in real life, so he couldn''t try to copy a skill he had seen on video. The third was something Lucas didn''t fully understand, but so far he hadn''t been able to copy two skills from one person. In conclusion, as much as Lucas wanted to copy Nishida''s finishing skill so that he could finish as well as the top scorer at Wushia High School, Lucas couldn''t because he had already copied his thrust. ''Today, the obvious choice to be my target is Shinto Ishikuno. The only problem is, just like when I copied Nishida, I''m not sure which skill to copy. It seems to be a spur of the moment thing. In other words, I have to let him demonstrate the skill I want to copy in order to activate the at that moment.'' Lucas analyzed. [Your conclusion is correct. The skill copies the skill that the target is currently using. For example, when you copied Tsuyoshi Nishida, he was jumping, so you copied the skill ]. ''Yes, but this skill characteristic doesn''t make it as easy as it sounds, especially when the targets are players who have such a large arsenal of skills like Ishikuno. If I try to copy him, I''m sure I won''t be copying a general dribbling skill, but a specific one.'' S§×arch* The N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. [If you want to learn to dribble like Ishikuno, your only chance is to become his teammate and copy his skills on a daily basis, because it''s impossible for you to copy his entire arsenal of dribbling skills in one go]. ''This complicates things, but it gives me an idea¡­'' Chapter 28 27 - The Monster Show Usually, the ball would roll quickly through the feet of the Wushia High School players, a characteristic of the team''s play, but these passes were often intercepted.Lucas looked at his teammates and analyzed them. They still didn''t seem nervous enough to start intercepting a lot of passes, so it was clear that Itou High School had learned how they played and had adapted. What''s more, every time the ball was intercepted and taken by Itou High School players, it was always passed to Shinto Ishikuno, no matter how far away he was. However, Wushia High School had good defenders, and interceptions and steals were not uncommon for them either. "Over here!" Nishida shouted and rushed forward. The ball reached Kenji, who passed to Tsukada without hesitation. The field was open and the opportunity for a promising attack presented itself. Tsukada advanced, dribbling past one of Itou''s defenders, but was soon surrounded by two more. He gritted his teeth in frustration. With a quick pass, he gave the ball back to Kenji, who then passed to Lucas, who was free on the left. The latter, now aware that he couldn''t be distracted by Ishikuno, concentrated on creating an attacking move. With a strong touch, he let the ball run free on the turf before beating his marker at speed with a backheel. But Itou were prepared. Their defense adapted quickly, closing down the left-back and forcing Lucas to look for another option. He looked to Nishida, who was already in the penalty area, ready to receive a cross. Lucas lofted the ball towards Nishida. Nishida leapt, but the ball was deflected by the Itou defender, who sent it wide. "Shit! If only I''d been quicker!" Nishida muttered to himself. "Don''t put too much pressure on yourself, man. It was a good jump." The opposing defender kindly tried to cheer Nishid aup, who glared at him so angry that the boy backed away. "Sorry about that..." The Itou High School fans, who were the majority in the stadium, shouted and whistled, trying to rattle the Wushia players. "Hey Lucas, get in the box. You''ve got very good pace, you''ll be very useful there," Kenji said as Lucas picked up the ball to go for the corner. "But your shot from outside the box could also be useful." "It might not look like it, but they''re very well set up defensively. So they won''t give me space to shoot from outside the box. It''s better to have you in the area and bother them with your jump." Kenji positioned himself for the corner. He quickly glanced at his teammates, looking for the best moment to launch the ball. With a strong kick, he sent the ball into the box, and the wind made the ball fly in a large arc. Nishida and the Itou defenders engaged in an intense aerial battle. Unfortunately, the ball was deflected out of the box by an Itou defender and landed at the feet of Kuwabara, who quickly attempted a long-range shot, Kenji style. The ball was close to the corner, but Itou''s goalkeeper made a spectacular fingertip save. The game was intense, and the pressure on both teams was evident in the tense expressions on both coaches'' faces. High School Itou''s defense was solid, and Ishikuno remained a constant threat. Every time the ball reached his feet, the Wushia players were on high alert. In Wushia''s defense, Yugga struggled to keep the ball, but the high marking Itou tried to impose was annoying. He managed to get past one marker with a triangulation and looked forward, where he saw Lucas positioned in the middle of the pitch. He sent the ball to Lucas, who received it, but before Lucas could do anything, Ishikuno appeared out of nowhere and dispossessed him with a cart. Not only did Ishikuno have a supernatural talent for dribbling, but he also had a lot of breath, and the fans couldn''t help but comment. "Did you see that? This kid is unbelievable!" exclaimed one fan. "He has a level of dribbling that most professional strikers in Japan don''t have, and he still knows how to help the team defensively." "He is fast, smart and analytical. Without a doubt, the best on the pitch so far." "If things continue like this, Itou High School will score another goal. And when Wushia''s formation opens up to try to equalize, Ishikuno will be there." All the Wushia High School players had the same pessimistic impression as those watching from the sidelines. In fact, it was even worse. It was hard not to get discouraged, angry, and shaken when playing against a player like Ishikuno, who seemed to get past anyone. In the end, Ishikuno was like a ghost, always one step ahead of the defenders. Kuwabara tried to intercept him with a trolley when Ishikuno picked up the ball in midfield and started dribbling, but Ishikuno, with incredible skill, lifted the ball slightly and let it pass over the defender. "What?" Kuwabara exclaimed. The stands erupted in applause and cries of admiration. Ishikuno was doing what he wanted on the field, and Wushia High School seemed powerless to stop him. He approached the area, and Toshinori, Wushia''s goalkeeper, braced himself for the inevitable. "Come on, Toshinori! You can do it!" shouted Hidefumi, trying to instill confidence in the goalkeeper. Ishikuno raised his head and analyzed his options. With one shot, he sent the ball toward the goal. Toshinori stretched as far as he could and couldn''t reach it, but the ball went just wide of the post, much to the relief of the Wushia players. The ball was cleared off the line and Wushia had a chance to restart the game. The team needed something to break Itou''s solid defense. S§×ar?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. It didn''t take long for Itou High School to regain possession, and they predictably played the ball to Ishikuno to create space. Then it was Lucas who stepped into Ishikuno''s path and looked him in the eye. Ishikuno stopped and threatened to move to the right. Lucas didn''t budge, holding his position with a serious, focused expression. Ishikuno then tried the left side, but Lucas stood firm, not giving an inch. Ishikuno''s eyes narrowed, and he knew that Lucas would no longer fall for simple dribbles. The passing options weren''t good either. So Ishikuno had to pass to Lucas or drop back, and dropping back was something he never liked to do. Ishikuno smiled and with this joyful expression he performed a breathtaking dribble, with a body feint, a pass with the sole of his right foot over the ball and finally Lucas was nutmegged. Ishikuno passed Lucas, leaving him stunned. At that moment, just when Ishikuno thought he had won, Lucas smiled. It wasn''t a smile of contempt, but a smile of recognition, for this was the moment he had been waiting for. [The player Shinto Ishikuno has just demonstrated the skill . Do you want to check the copying conditions for this skill?] Chapter 29 28 - A desperate or... admirable decision? [Skill Copy Conditions : Make Ishikuno see you as a monster as well].''A monster?'' Lucas asked himself, feeling a chill run down his spine. Becoming a monster in the eyes of Ishikuno, who was already a monster to Lucas, meant playing on the same level as Ishikuno. In other words, Lucas would have to reach the level of one of the most promising young players in the country. This was not only absurd, but also crazy for Lucas, someone who considered himself to be talentless. Even so, the skill was for everyday use only. So, once he used it, he could only copy this skill from Ishikuno and no one else on the field. To make matters worse, Itou High School seemed to be getting past Wushia High School''s defense with increasing ease. Ishikuno, after dribbling past Lucas, crossed the ball to the left wing and saw his teammate almost score a beautiful goal. Luckily, Toshinori was able to save the Wushia High School goal, but he was beginning to get tired. Soon, Toshinori wouldn''t be able to make any more shots, and even the defense wouldn''t be able to stop Itou High School. Lucas watched the whole scene with shock and realized that he couldn''t hesitate any longer. There was no time for that. Ishikuno had to see him as a monster, right? So that was what he was going to do. No matter what, Lucas would become a nightmare for Ishikuno. During the next breakthrough at Itou High School, Ishikuno realized that something had changed in Lucas. There was something unusual about this black-haired boy. Lucas wasn''t like the other midfielders at Wushia High School, who always fell for his feints and gave up after one or two dribbles. Even after being easily outdribbled, Lucas would run after Ishikuno to stop him. He was persistent and stubborn. After being passed by Ishikuno again, Lucas didn''t give up. Ishikuno glanced back and his heart leapt when he saw Lucas so close. Lucas recovered from his dribbles faster and faster. He had a determination in his eyes that were always focused on the striker, as if he was the only thing that mattered in the world. "This guy..." Ishikuno said aloud, feeling a bead of sweat run down the side of his face. Not everyone on and off the field saw Lucas'' ability to react in such a sportsmanlike manner, however. "Really? What''s that number 8 doing?" "I hadn''t noticed before, but he''s a bit rash, isn''t he?" "He wants to chase every ball, leaving holes in the team''s defense. Wushia High School used to be able to attack, but now they can''t even do that. Doesn''t he realize that he''s a nuisance?" Lucas didn''t care about the comments or the yelling. He was focused, ignoring the burning in his legs and the pain spreading through his body from the constant effort. He knew that he needed more than skill to stop Ishikuno, otherwise Hidefumi would have done it by now. He needed stamina, a willpower that could make him a nuisance to even the most talented striker. Ishikuno, still with the ball at his feet, tried to remain calm. He was used to being the most unpredictable player on the field, but now he felt that unpredictability had changed sides. "He''ll catch me..." Ishikuno said to himself, speeding up his pace with the ball, but something inside him wondered if that would be enough. The Wushia High School defense was organized, on the lookout for another attack from Ishikuno, who had amazing dribbling skills, but who needed help against a well-positioned defense. What''s more, they took advantage of the fact that Lucas was marking Ishikuno almost single-handedly, and managed to give the other Itou High School players more attention. Lucas seemed to be everywhere at once, helping the defense, returning to the attack, and when the ball rolled to Ishikuno, Lucas was already approaching him again to mark him individually. After minutes like that, the fans who had previously criticized Lucas began to marvel at Lucas'' willpower. "This kid...doesn''t he get tired?" one spectator asked in disbelief. "Lucas Tanaka... He''s not the most technically gifted, but he makes up for it with absurd stamina." [1 Elixir of Restoration has been consumed.] [You have recovered 50% of your stamina.] Lucas, who was drenched in sweat and practically exhausted, felt the energy return to his body and continued to run after Ishikuno. There was a tone of almost desperation in the way Lucas moved around the field, always coming back, always ready for the next move, as if he had infinite energy. It was then that Ishikuno finally realized the true challenge that lay before him. He was facing someone who embodied pure willpower. That animated smile of Lucas''s, which he had underestimated at first, now looked like the smile of a monster to Ishikuno. A monster that didn''t know the word "surrender", a monster that didn''t want to lose. "I have to end this now," Ishikuno decided, tightening his grip even more than he moved forward. But as much as he didn''t want to admit it, a broad smile appeared on his face. It was nice to play against someone so interesting. [Copy Conditions Achieved]. [Skill acquired]. [ unlocked]. In a flash, Ishikuno glanced back to confirm what she already knew: Lucas was there, coming closer and closer, his eyes fixed with an unyielding determination, as if he was willing to sacrifice everything for this victory. There was something in Lucas'' gaze that sent a shiver down Ishikuno''s spine - a mixture of madness and passion that he himself knew well, but which now seemed to be turning against him. But while Ishikuno was too preoccupied with Lucas, a crucial mistake was made. Hidefumi, the chief defender of Wushia High School, was already strategically positioned. He had read the game like a book. With impeccable precision, he stepped forward, stretched out his leg, and intercepted the ball with a firm touch. sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Ishikuno barely had time to realize what had happened. In one instant, the ball was at his feet and in the next; it had been taken away by Hidefumi. "What...?" exclaimed Ishikuno and twisted to the defender. Hidefumi replied with a serious but slightly teasing expression in his eyes: "You''re focusing too much on Lucas. Don''t forget, he''s not playing alone." Hidefumi then made a quick pass to Lucas who, without Hidefumi having to ask or look at him, was already turning to start a lightning counterattack. The ball flew a few meters through the air and landed softly at Lucas'' feet. "That''s what I wanted." Lucas said. Chapter 30 29 - The ball rested gently at Lucas Tanaka''s feet, as if fate had decided to conspire in his favor.For a brief moment, time seemed to slow down. The crowd, previously engulfed in murmurs and criticisms of the way Lucas was playing, now watched in silence, waiting for the next move of the boy who had become the center of attention. Lucas lifted his head and scanned the horizon of the field. He knew he could not falter on this counterattack. Ishikuno was still on his tail, despite the mistake, and the opposing team wasn''t going to make it easy. Every muscle in his body screamed with exhaustion, but the energy he had regained from the elixir gave him a little of what he needed to keep going. Sweat dripped down his face in thick drops. Despite his fatigue, his feet moved with a precision he didn''t even know he still possessed. This was what scientists called skill, basically the result of hard work and consistency in playing soccer. When the ball hit the turf, Lucas took it with a light, almost affectionate touch and immediately began to run. Sear?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Time returned to its normal speed, and with it, the pitch was transformed into a stage of controlled chaos. The opposing players quickly repositioned themselves, trying to close off the spaces that Lucas could exploit in this counterattack. The shouts of the coaches mingled with the screams of the fans, who were now completely captivated by the game. However, a figure appeared on the left side of the pitch. It was Kazuo Inoue, a defensive midfielder from Itou High School, known for his relentless marking and ability to read the game. He had been watching Lucas all game, waiting for the right moment to make his move. Kazuo was not only a skilled player but also a born strategist. He was the one who used Ishikuno all the time, always setting him up with passes, and he knew that if he could stop Lucas there, Wushia High School''s offense would fade along with his energy, and frustration would take hold of the man who had become Itou High School''s main obstacle. Kazuo moved forward with determination, quickly closing the gap between himself and Lucas. The midfielder didn''t want to give Lucas any space or time to think about his next move or to make one of his passes. With his gaze fixed on his opponent, he prepared to intercept the ball. Through his peripheral vision, Lucas saw Kazuo''s figure rapidly approaching. Lucas'' heart was pounding in his chest, but his face was pure calm. He remembered the skill he had acquired just moments before: Mirage Feint. It was a technique he had never used before, but now it seemed to be the only card he could play to get out of this situation. Kazuo was only a few meters away when Lucas made the move. With a slight tilt of his body to the right, he gave the impression that he was going to run in that direction. Kazuo immediately positioned himself to stop him. Suddenly, Lucas shifted his body weight to the left, the ball following his movement in an almost impossible spin. The change in direction was so quick and precise that Kazuo, as prepared as he was, couldn''t react in time. His feet tried to adjust, but it was too late. Kazuo still tried to extend his leg to reach the ball, but the illusion created by Lucas'' movement caused him to kick into empty air and fall to the ground. His eyes widened in surprise and frustration as he watched helplessly as the junior player moved on. Shock flashed across his face as he could not believe he had been so easily defeated. ''What the hell? Is he a dribbler like Ishikuno?'' Kazuo thought. He was expecting a simple dribble, but what Lucas did was worthy of a striker. And at that moment, the crowd erupted. Shouts of admiration and disbelief echoed from the stands as the crowd tried to process what they had just witnessed. "Did you see that?! How did he do that?" "That''s what?!!!" "It''s unbelievable! He walked past #6 like it was nothing!" Another fan shouted, getting up from his seat to get a better view of the court. Even the online commentators in their reserved seats were momentarily speechless, until one of them regained his composure and began to describe the play with obvious excitement in his voice: "And there goes Lucas Tanaka, the boy who doesn''t know the word ''give up''! He''s just made a spectacular dribble to leave Kazuo Inoue behind! It''s a move that will live long in the memory of all Wushia High players, as it seems to mark a shocking turnaround! Lucas'' will seems to be catching up with his teammates, because look at him, they''re all moving forward with him!" Lucas could feel his heart beating fast: ''I can do it now! Did you see that, Ishikuno?'' he thought with a smile on his face. The sound of the crowd''s shouts seemed far away, almost drowned out by the absolute concentration that filled his mind. The energy that Lucas had created with that spectacular dribble seemed to have spread throughout the entire Wushia High School team, like a bolt of lightning striking the earth and causing everything around it to vibrate. Nishida, a little further up the court, looked at Lucas and waited for the pass he knew would come. The ball, which seemed to have a life of its own at Lucas'' feet, meandered across the pitch in an almost hypnotic rhythm as he searched for the best moment to make the decisive pass. Kazuo, still dazed from the previous dribble, tried desperately to reposition himself, but was now just a distant shadow, out of play. Lucas lifted his head for a moment. Nishida was free, but not for long. Two Itou High School defenders, like wolves hunting in pairs, began to close in on him, trying to anticipate Lucas'' pass, which was logically more likely to go to the team''s top scorer. In fact, Nishidahad the best chance of finishing and scoring; his physique and finishing ability were unique, but the two defenders were already too close. Lucas realized the risk. If he passed the ball to Nishida at that moment, Nishida might not be able to get away from his markers in time. The glimmer of opportunity he had seen was fading fast. Going for the goal alone wasn''t possible either. Even if he used again, there was no guarantee of a hit. Then, something caught Lucas'' eye. A figure standing in the same direction as Nishida, but further back. It was Tsukada, Wushia High School''s number 10, running at speed, his eyes fixed on the ball and the space opening up around him. He was free, unmarked, and advancing quickly. Lucas wasn''t so sure about Tsukada, but he made his decision in a split second. He changed the position of his body and directed the pass so that Tsukada was almost alone with the goalkeeper. Chapter 31 30 - Goals Tsukada, Wushia High School''s #10, advanced like an arrow from a bow, with an open space in front of him, unnoticed by Itou High School''s defenders, who were focused on Tsuyoshi Nishida. It was an opportunity that could change the course of the match, something Lucas couldn''t ignore.Lucas subtly changed the angle of his body, disguising the intended pass that any spectator or opposing player would expect. The defenders, already prepared to block the pass intended for Nishida, were caught off guard when the ball passed behind them. The pass didn''t go to Nishida, but to Tsukada, who was perfectly positioned to receive the ball behind the defense. The sound of the crowd, which had seemed distant before, returned to Lucas'' ears with the force of a wave breaking violently on the beach. The pass glided across the field with almost surgical precision, cutting like a razor. Tsukada, seeing that the pass was for him, could already feel the sensation of the net rattling as he hit the goal. His heart was racing, but it was a familiar rhythm, the rhythm of someone who was used to being the hero wherever he went. Tsukada reached for the ball and adjusted his body for the shot. He kicked with his right foot, with all the power and technique he possessed. The ball flew in a precise curve toward the upper right corner of the goal. But then something inexplicable happened. The ball, seemingly destined for the back of the net, began to lose momentum at the last moment. Tsukada saw the perfect curve begin to deviate slightly, as if a treacherous wind had altered its trajectory. He watched in horror as the ball struck the crossbar, reverberating like a thunderclap around the stadium before bouncing out of reach of any player on the field. Lucas couldn''t believe what had just happened. Tsukada felt his legs fail him, and in an almost involuntary movement, he fell to his knees on the field. His mind was unable to process the reality of the mistake he had just made. The muffled sound of the crowd was in murmurs of disbelief and disappointment. Lucas remained static. His feet seemed to be planted on the pitch as his mind tried to process the catastrophic mistake. ''He missed... At the most crucial moment of the game, he failed to do what everyone expected of him...'' Lucas thought as he stared at Tsukada on the ground in disbelief. The wind blew gently across the field, bringing a cold breeze that only added to the weight of this moment. Tsukada felt small, diminished by the magnitude of his failure. Lucas walked over to Tsukada, who remained motionless, his eyes fixed on the ground. As Lucas approached, he extended his hand, a simple gesture. Tsukada lifted his head and looked into Lucas'' eyes. Lucas showed no anger or frustration. The shock was still in his face, but there was something else in his eyes - something Tsukada hadn''t expected. There was understanding, empathy. Lucas knew the weight Tsukada carried as number 10, because that was the number he wanted to wear one day. Tsukada hesitated for a moment, still ashamed of his mistake. But then, seeing the expression on Lucas'' face - a mixture of weariness, acceptance and, above all, solidarity - he finally accepted the outstretched hand. With a deep sigh, Tsukada took Lucas'' hand and pulled him back up. "I... I''m sorry. I should have kicked you. I teased you at first, and when you really trusted me... I failed." Lucas shook his head negatively, a small, tired smile appearing on his lips. "Don''t worry, Tsukada. The game isn''t over yet." [Wushia High School 1-1 Itou High School]. S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. [82:55] The clock was ticking down relentlessly, and the tie seemed to be more of a defeat than a victory for Wushia High School. Before the final play, which began with a steal of the ball, High School Itou were the ones in control. So when High School Itou''s goalkeeper took the penalty kick, it wasn''t expected that the dynamic on the pitch would change much. With a powerful shot, the goalkeeper sent the ball into the middle of the field, where players from both teams engaged in a fierce battle in the air. The ball was headed away by a High School Itou player and landed at the feet of one of their midfielders. Itou High School''s pressure on Wushia High School, which had already dominated much of the game, intensified. The Wushia players, aware of the technical superiority of their opponents, quickly backed off to try to stop the advance. The defense was organized, but exhaustion was already beginning to take its toll on many of their legs. Lucas'' eyes were fixed on the opposing player, who was advancing with the ball, looking for a gap in Wushia''s defensive wall. The Itou High School player looked around, looking for a way to pass. He saw his most advanced attacker, Yamato, running toward the penalty area. With an agile and unexpected move, he passed the ball perfectly, finding Yamato in a dangerous position. Wushia''s defense was taken by surprise, and the screams of the Itou fans echoed like the roar of a predator about to pounce. But before Yamato could finish his shot, the Wushia High School defense closed in on him. Kuwabara, Wushia High School''s right back, managed to intercept the pass, causing the ball to bounce toward midfield and land at Kenji''s feet. He lifted his head to look for an open teammate. He spotted Tsuyoshi Nishida, who, despite the intense play and constant pressure, still seemed to have some energy left, as he hadn''t moved or attacked much. Nishida gestured for the ball with a commanding movement. Kenji, aware of Nishida''s abilities, made the pass and sent the ball his way. Nishida received the ball with an ease that seemed to contradict the intensity of the game. He took it in his chest, quickly placed it on the ground, and began to take long strides forward. The field seemed to open up in front of him, but the Itou High School players quickly sensed the threat and began to surround him. With a quick and unexpected touch, Nishida managed to outrun the first marker, leaving him behind as he ran. Three Itou High School players quickly approached in an attempt to surround him and neutralize the threat. Nishida, however, was not the type of player to be intimidated. With a pass to Lucas, who was approaching from the left, he managed to get away from the triple marker and found space to continue his advance. Soon after, Lucas returned the pass to Nishida, who saw the ball coming towards him and managed to control it, but the marking was relentless. There were still two High School Itou players in front of Nishida, and even more behind him. It wouldn''t be possible to play with Lucas again because the defense was tighter, and as soon as he slowed down to face the players in front of him, those behind him would catch up. Besides, he was still far from the goal. He had to think fast. Nishida felt the pressure on his shoulders grow, but instead of backing down, he decided to risk it all. ''Fuck it... I''ll do it for my self!'' Nishida thought. He grabbed the ball and prepared to shoot from just outside the box. An opposing defender, sensing Nishida''s intention, stepped forward to block. "We can''t let him shoot because..." Nishida was quicker. He unleashed a shot with a force that seemed superhuman. The ball sliced through the air like a cannonball, heading toward the goal with frightening speed. The crowd, the players, the coaches - everyone was paralyzed for a moment. The Itou High School goalkeeper, despite his experience and quick reflexes, only noticed the shot when the ball hit the back of the net. He was still standing there, arms outstretched, hearing only the sound of the ball falling behind him and into the goal. "What a strike!!!" said the announcer of the online broadcast. Chapter 32 31 - The Turning Goal The stadium erupted in a deafening roar as Nishida''s shot crashed into the back of the net with the force of a meteorite. S§×ar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.Tsuyoshi Nishida''s goal wasn''t just another point on the scoreboard; it was a masterpiece, a masterful painting, the likes of which can only be seen on television. For a brief moment, this field of green grass had become his canvas. The Wushia High School players rose like a wave in ecstasy. Arms in the air, screaming, jumping and hugging, all at the same time in chaotic celebration. Even the most skeptical spectators in the stands couldn''t deny what they had just witnessed. This match had been more exciting than anyone could have predicted. Nishida''s eyes, still fixed on the goal, revealed his surprise. For a few seconds, he didn''t smile or celebrate. Instead, he just stood there, his chest rising and falling as his heart raced in his chest. While the Itou High School players looked at each other in disbelief at what had just happened, Nishida''s teammates ran towards him. Lucas was the first to reach him and jumped on his back. "Man, you did it!" Lucas shouted. Other Wushia High School players joined in the celebration surrounding Nishida. Each of them was clearly exhausted, sweat dripping from their foreheads, but the gleam in their eyes was impossible to ignore. Kenji gave Nishidaa gentle pat on the back. "I knew you had something up your sleeve, but this... was surreal." Nishida finally smiled, a small smile befitting his reserved personality, but full of satisfaction. "It had to be now, didn''t it? There was no other chance." On the sidelines, Wushia''s coach, Mr. Yamamoto, watched the scene with an expression of unbridled pride. He knew of Nishida''s potential, he always had, but even he was surprised by the precision and power of that shot. "Tsuyoshi... Tsuyoshi..." he murmured to himself, shaking his head in amazement. "This boy has something special." On the other side, the coach of Itou High School gesticulated furiously, trying to reorganize his players for the final minutes, but it was clear that Nishida''s goal had destabilized the team. They looked lost, their morale shattered. Itou''s goalkeeper picked up the ball at the back of the net and stared at it, trying to process how he''d been beaten so easily. "How could I not have seen this coming?" He asked himself. The referee finally restored order to the field and blew the whistle to resume play. The Itou High School players lined up for the restart, but the flame that had once burned in their eyes seemed to have been completely extinguished. Extra time was almost up, and everyone knew that Nishida''s goal would probably seal the match''s fate. Even Shinto Ishikuno, the monster from Itou High School, was a little frightened by the turn of events. When the ball was put back into play, most of Wushia''s players remained in their formation, but they were visibly more relaxed, confident that victory was within their grasp. Nishida, however, remained focused. "It''s not over yet," he said. On the field, the clock seemed to run slower than ever for Wushia High School. Every second that passed was a blessing for Wushia and a burden for Itou. The ball moved from side to side, but Itou''s momentum was gone. They were on the field, but their minds seemed to be elsewhere, perhaps reliving Nishida''s shot while trying to find some mistake or flaw that would explain what had happened. When the final whistle blew a minute later, it was as if an electric charge had been released throughout the stadium. The Wushia High School players erupted in celebration again, and this time Nishida let go, raising his arms to the sky and shouting as he and his teammates ran toward the coach. Nishida was quickly surrounded by his teammates, all eager to show their gratitude to the player who had sealed their victory. Mr. Yamamoto approached and put an arm around Nishida''s shoulders. "That was brilliant, Tsuyoshi. Today, you showed everyone why you''re one of the best." Nishida smiled again, this time more openly. "Thanks, coach." Meanwhile, in the stands, several Wushia High School fans were chanting Nishida''s name. Even the commentators on the online broadcast were ecstatic, praising the skill and courage Nishida had shown in risking that shot. "This kid has a bright future. What we saw today wasn''t just luck, it was pure stardom. Mr. Doya, our expert on high school teams and national grassroots soccer, did you know him?" "Tsuyoshi Nishida has always been a standout in the youth leagues. He''s always had this natural ability to score goals, but like today, he didn''t make many appearances in the course of the game because he was always very well marked. Still, he seems to have a star in him, doesn''t he? Even though he was out of action for the whole game, he comes on at the right time and fires a powerful shot from this distance towards the goal. It''s crazy. For sure, Tsuyoshi Nishida is a youngster to keep an eye on, and it''s a warning to the big national clubs." "Yes, yes. Definitely. I think that apart from the surprising goal in the 45th minute, Wushia High School''s performance today was also surprising. There were high expectations for Itou High School. Do you think that might have had a negative effect?" "It''s hard to say. They''re all young players, and their emotions are unpredictable. However, I don''t think that High School Itou''s defeat today was due to nerves. They didn''t play badly. In fact, I think they did even more to win than they did in the first game, when they massacred their opponents." "Ohh! So why do you think today''s result wasn''t what you expected?" "Can I be honest?" "Of course!" "I think the main culprit is that young midfielder. Let me see his name here... Um, yes, Lucas Tanaka, the #8 from Wushia High School!" "Actually, come to think of it, he didn''t give Itou High School''s midfield or Shinto Ishikuno a moment''s peace. That boy has energy!" "More than energy, he did it with intelligence." "What do you mean?" "Look at it this way: Itou High School has quality when it has freedom. That way, the passes always reach Shinto Ishikuno, who can single-handedly disorganize a team''s entire defensive structure. On the other hand, if the pass to Shinto Ishikuno is made under pressure, he won''t have as many opportunities. What''s more, by creating a system of individual marking on Ishikuno, the talented dribbler will be able to get forward two or three players at a time, but when he has to make a play to avoid losing the ball, Lucas will be there to get in his way and make him hesitate, make a mistake, or even take a risk." "Huh? Did that kid think all that up?" "If he didn''t think, it would be even scarier, because it means he acted on instinct." "There you are, Lucas Tanaka! The boy managed to stop the great talent Shinto Ishikuno! Wushia High School will now advance to the main round of the Chubu Regional Summer Championships!" Chapter 33 32 - Beat the Sleeping Monster [Congratulations! You have completed the quest "Beat the Sleeping Monster"!][You have earned the following rewards: +200 Star Points +1 Epic Loot Box +10 Attribute Points +1 Mysterious Common Card]. Lucas Tanaka saw the system''s notifications appear in front of his eyes as soon as he left the arena. So I really managed to outsmart him? Ah, what a relief. I thought for a moment that Nishidahad taken all the attention. Lucas thought, but unfortunately, he wouldn''t have time to check his reward yet. Better to take his time. Lucas Tanaka took one last look at the field, where the echo of the shouts still echoed in the stands. After this exhausting game, all he wanted was a moment''s rest and a hot shower. The entrance to the locker room was a hubbub of voices and laughter, a lively celebration of the hard-fought victory. "Hey, Lucas!" Kuwabara''s voice stopped Lucas in his tracks. "What?" "Did you see that woman over there? The one with the dark hair and the blue eyes? She keeps looking over here. Do you think it''s me?" Kuwabara asked, pointing to a woman in a white summer dress. Lucas followed Kuwabara''s gaze to near the steps of the grandstand, where the woman was standing. She was small, with black hair cascading down her back. Lucas stifled a laugh. "This is Moeka Tahara, Kuwabara. She''s the volunteer nurse." Kuwabara''s smile faltered for a second before he pulled himself together and forced a laugh that clearly masked his disappointment. "Oh, really? I didn''t know they had such an impressive nurse." He scratched the back of his head, trying to hide his discomfort. "That''s right." Lucas replied, already imagining that Kuwabara was trying to find a way to save face. "Actually, I need to talk to her. I''m going to thank her for her help with my ankle." Kuwabara raised an eyebrow but nodded. "Go on, man. Thank her for me too. After all, if it wasn''t for her, you might not have been able to play today." Lucas nodded slightly and walked over to Moeka. As he approached, he saw that Moeka Tahara was a little lost as to where to look. It seemed that she hadn''t noticed that they were talking about her yet, so her eyes went to different places when she saw he approaching. She was the kind of person who didn''t open up easily to others. Lucas respected that, but he still had his other mission to complete. "Hi, Ms. Tahara." Lucas started, trying not to sound nervous. "I just wanted to thank you for helping me with my ankle before the game. If it wasn''t for you, I probably wouldn''t have been able to play." Moeka gave a soft, almost imperceptible, but genuine smile. "I''m glad I could help, Lucas. But it was you who did all the hard work on the field. I just did what was necessary to make sure you could play safely." "Anyway, thanks for that and thanks for coming. Do you want to talk somewhere that isn''t so noisy?" Lucas asked. He had already noticed that Moeka Tahara was the kind of person who preferred to go unnoticed. She had a quiet personality, and that was something Lucas admired. He knew that this invitation to talk in a quieter place might seem a little unusual, especially after she had already turned him down, but, surprisingly, she accepted. "Sure, we can talk somewhere else," she replied him with a shy smile, the kind of smile that warms any man''s heart. It was as if she was trying to hide the fact that she was flattered but didn''t want to show it too much. "Great." As the two of them walked towards the exit, Lucas felt the eyes of some of his teammates following him. One of those looks belonged to Tsuyoshi Nishida, who had just taken off his boots to let his feet breathe. "Hey, Tsukada," Nishidacalled to the teammate next to him. Tsukada, who was drinking water from a bottle, raised an eyebrow and followed Nishida''s gaze, noticing Lucas next to Moeka. He smiled, noticing something he rarely saw in Lucas: an attempt, however clumsy, to get close to a girl. "Well, that''s something new..." Tsukada commented with a mischievous grin. "I never thought of Tanaka as the flirtatious type." Nishidalaughed softly and shook his head in disbelief. "If he''s trying to be, he''s doing it wrong." "Why?" "Look at him," Nishidapointed with his chin. "All sweaty, still in his game clothes. If he really wants to impress an older woman like that, he should at least shower and change first." Tsukada laughed and agreed with Nishida. "You''re right, but now it''s explained how he had so much energy to run in that game." Nishidatook his cell phone out of his jacket pocket and quickly typed a message to Lucas. He glanced at his friend, who was still focused on Moeka, and sent the message without hesitation. A short vibration on Lucas'' phone alerted him to a new message. He asked Moeka to excuse him before checking what it was. Lucas opened the message and his eyes quickly scanned the words: [Nishida: You should at least shower and change before going out with a pretty girl. She deserves at least that, don''t you think?] Lucas couldn''t help but laugh silently. He quickly glanced at Nishida, who nodded slightly, as if to say "Trust me". Knowing that Nishidawas right, Lucas turned his attention to Moeka, who was waiting patiently with a curious expression on her face. "Moeka, I think it would be best if I changed before we go out to talk. Would you mind waiting for 10 minutes?" Moeka looked slightly surprised, but then agreed with an understanding smile. "Sure, no problem." "Thank you. I won''t be long." Lucas replied with relief in his voice. Sear?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. He turned quickly and headed for the changing rooms with a new sense of urgency. As he passed Nishidaand Tsukada, he couldn''t help but notice the mischievous smiles they both threw in his direction. "Go ahead, Casanova," Tsukada teased with a small laugh. "Don''t ruin everything," Nishidaadded, patting Lucas on the back as he passed. Lucas shook his head, a half-amused, half-embarrassed smile forming on his lips. He knew his friends were having fun at his expense, but deep down, he appreciated their concern. Nishidawas right, smelling fresh and not being sticky with sweat would probably help him avoid being rejected by Moeka a second time, and his chances seemed better now than before. Chapter 34 33 - A coffee Won’t Hurt When Lucas arrived at the locker room, he quickly found the locker where he had left his bag and began to take off his sweaty uniform. Then, as he quickly washed up, his thoughts turned to Moeka.He hadn''t met her in his past life, but he was pretty sure she would have rejected him even after seeing him play well. She didn''t seem like the type of woman who would be interested in him, and she wasn''t easy to win over. "She''s different from most women..." Lucas muttered to himself, soaping his arms. In his previous life, he had only had quick relationships, the kind that lasted a month at most. He worked too hard not to get fired by his strict boss, so he always had to work a lot of overtime. This kind of thing took precious hours out of his day, and even though he liked the girls, he sometimes went out with, he watched them walk away with their hands tied behind their backs. However, he was young now and had time to devote to not being a thirty-something single man. After a quick shower, he put on a clean t-shirt and jeans, looked in the mirror and grimaced. "Nothing impressive, but it''ll have to do." He laughed at himself. When he returned to where he had left Moeka, she was standing exactly where he had left her, staring absentmindedly at the sky. She turned when she heard Lucas'' footsteps approaching. "You were quick." "I didn''t want to keep you waiting too long," he replied. "Ready to go?" She asked, pointing to the exit. "Don''t worry. We won''t go far, so you won''t worry about your friends and coach." S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. ''If she only knew what Mr. Yamamoto said to me when I told him I had to leave the locker room a little early because I wanted to talk to a girl...'' Lucas thought. Lucas thought, a bead of sweat running down his face as he remembered the old coach''s naughty side. The Asset Minato Stadium had a shopping mall inside, with souvenir shops, restaurants, and cafes scattered throughout the corridors. The interior was very modern and spacious, and it was a way for the stadium to make money even when there were no games, and the mall was very busy after games. Moeka and Lucas walked in silence for a moment, both feeling a little uncomfortable in the situation. "You played really well today, Lucas." Moeka finally broke the silence. "I knew you had potential from the rumors I heard, but I didn''t know you had so much energy." Lucas laughed. "If you think you saw energy today, you ain''t seen nothing yet." Moeka smiled and blushed a little, but soon returned to her usual expression. "That''s what I wanted to talk about." Lucas raised an eyebrow. "About what, exactly? About my energy?" Moeka hesitated for a moment, as if choosing her words carefully. "I wanted to know if... well, if the request to go out with me that day was some kind of bet with your teammates." Lucas stopped abruptly. "A bet? Of course not! What gave you that idea?" Moeka blushed slightly and looked away. "Well, it''s just something teenagers do sometimes. They make bets to see who can get a girl''s attention first or put pressure on a classmate to do something." "Moeka, I would never do that. When I asked you out, I meant it. I really wanted to spend time with you, without any bets or ulterior motives, well, ulterior motives I do have." Moeka was surprised by Lucas'' sincerity, put her hand to her mouth and laughed again, looking relieved. "It''s okay, I believe you, Lucas. And I really appreciate your feelings, but... I can''t repay you." Lucas felt a pang of disappointment. "And why not?" "Because it would be unprofessional of me. I''m a volunteer nurse here, and it''s not appropriate to have that kind of relationship with such a young player." "But you''re not working now, are you? We''re just chatting, off the clock. That doesn''t count as lack of professionalism." Moeka let out a small laugh, surprised by Lucas'' wit. "You''re smart, Lucas, but I still can''t." Lucas feigned an exaggerated sigh of defeat. "All right, you win. I''ll respect your decision. Now, since you can''t give me what I want. How about buying me a coffee so I don''t have to rush back to the locker room? I''d pay, but..." Lucas pulled out his pockets, revealing that he was penniless. "A coffee, huh? You really know how to turn a situation to your advantage, don''t you?" "I''ve learned that sometimes persistence is the key." Moeka was hard to decipher, but he was determined to spend more time with her and try to complete the mission of kissing her. "All right, a coffee won''t hurt." They chose a cozy coffee shop in the corner of the mall, where the aroma of freshly ground beans dominated the air, mingling with the sweet smell of cakes and pies on the counter. Lucas ordered an American coffee, simple and strong, like he used to drink during his long working days, while Moeka opted for an iced coffee with milk and a hint of caramel. They walked to the parking lot to wait for the Wushia High School team to leave the stadium. "So, Moeka, how about telling me a little more about yourself?" Lucas asked. Moeka held the cold glass in his hands. "There''s not much to tell, really." I''ve always liked helping people and being a nurse allows me to do that." "And you like football? Or do you volunteer more for the chance to help people?" "A bit of both, I''d say." Moeka replied with a slight smile. "I grew up in a family that always followed soccer. My brothers were fanatics, and I got the hang of it. But more than the sport itself, I like being where I can make a difference, however small." Moeka seemed so at peace with herself, so aware of her choices, that Lucas found himself reflecting on how he himself had changed since his reincarnation. "I understand. I think sometimes we just want to find a place where we can be useful, right? We spend so much time chasing goals and objectives that we sometimes forget to live in the moment, to enjoy the little things." Moeka stared at him for a moment, as if she was really surprised. "Yes, you have a very mature side, don''t you?" Lucas smiled, a bit embarrassed. "What? Don''t say it like that, I''m mentally more mature than any boy my age." "I can see that, you''re trying to find an older girlfriend." She joked, making him blush with embarrassment. She laughed, and the sound of her laughter made Lucas'' heart beat a little faster. Just then, Lucas picked up Moeka''s cup, which was lying between them on the bench, and took a sip of her iced coffee. "Hey, that''s my coffee." Moeka said, still laughing. Lucas'' eyes widened as he quickly removed the straw from his mouth. "Oh, sorry! I got my cup mixed up!" "Um... You saw you couldn''t get a direct kiss, so you stole an indirect one, right?" She looked at him with crossed eyes, causing him to break out in a cold sweat. "What?! Of course not!" [Congratulations! You have completed the ''Flirt'' mission!] [You have won the following rewards: + 1 Uncommon Loot Box and + 1 Common Mystery Card]. "Don''t worry, Lucas. I know it was an honest mistake." Her tone was playful, but there was something else, a feeling that made Lucas relax. He laughed at his own distraction, and for a moment the embarrassment was replaced by a feeling of friendship. They chatted for a few more minutes until they saw the Wushia High School players leaving the stadium in the distance. Moeka sighed softly. "I think it''s time for me to go." "Time has passed quickly, Moeka." "It has." She agreed and stood up. "Thank you for the coffee and the conversation." "Thank you, Moeka. It was nice spending time with you." "Lucas, I hope you continue to play with the same passion you showed today. And remember, no matter what happens, you must always follow what you believe is right." "I promise, Moeka." So Lucas joined his colleagues while Moeka got into her car. When he sat down in his seat on the bus, he looked out and saw that she was no longer there. ''She rejected me, but it seems I managed to cheat the system with that simple indirect kiss... Well, not bad for a first rejection in your teens, right?'' He thought and a female face with a wicked smile appeared in his mind like a flash, making the smile on his face disappear. ''No, it wasn''t really my first rejection...'' "Hey, Tanaka, you dropped this on the bus." Tsuyoshi Nishida approached Lucas and handed him a small piece of paper. Confused, Lucas opened the paper and there were several numbers on it that definitely made up a cell phone number, and underneath it was written: "Call me if it''s a big emergency, but only big emergencies." Chapter 35 34 - Skills *Knock, Knock!*"Will you be in there for long, Tanaka?" Tsuyoshi Nishida asked. "I have to go to the bathroom." "More five minutes!" "Argh! Never mind, I''ll use the bathroom in Kuwabara''s room." After arriving at his hotel room, Lucas locked himself in the bathroom of his room so he could tinker with the Champion System without his roommate, Nishida, thinking he was going crazy. "I got 10 attribute points for completing the mission to blind Shinto Ishikuno. I had 5 points left... What should I do with those points? My speed attribute is my highest attribute with 25 points, but if I want to be number 10, I don''t need to be very strong. I could invest some attributes in passing and the rest in defense..." The rewards Lucas had earned for completing two missions in a single day were many, but he felt that deciding where to invest his attribute points was a priority. If he was going to be a professional, every attribute was important. However, he couldn''t just think about distributing all the points equally, because he would be trying to become a perfect player, and that was probably unattainable. Therefore, Lucas had to focus on the type of player he wanted to be and invest more in that. Being the best at something would make him stand out much more than just being good at whatever he set his mind to. Of course Lucas wanted to become a complete player, but that shouldn''t be his focus just yet. "Okay, I''ve made up my mind." S§×arch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. [You have allocated 5 attribute points to shooting. This attribute has increased from 21 to 26]. [You can now better control the accuracy and power of your shots on goal.] [You have spent 7 attribute points on Physical. This stat has increased from 17 to 24]. [Running for several minutes is no longer a problem for you.] [You have 3 Dribbling attribute points. This attribute increased from 17 to 20]. [The success rate of your skill has increased from 20% to 35%.] "Ouch, for only 3 attribute points, the success rate has increased that much?" [The skill fights dribbling, so investing in that attribute will greatly increase its success rate. However, the success rate will never be 100% even if you reach 100 attribute points in Dribbling, because complications may occur]. "I see. So if I invest in attributes that match my skills, I''ll improve my hit rate? Doesn''t that mean that since I invested in Physical, my hit rate should also improve?" [No. does not combine with any attribute, but with the talent called Positioning. When you earn talent points, if you invest them in Positioning, your hit rate will increase]. "That''s... a bit wrong, isn''t it? How can my positioning be related to my punching power with this skill?" [It''s a matter of sensory elements]. "Haha... Such an evasive answer. Alright, I''ll ignore it for now, C¨¦os." C¨¦os seemed to have answers for almost everything, though sometimes with a cryptic tone that frustrated him. Lucas Tanaka then opened his inventory and selected the first mysterious card. A new system screen appeared before his eyes, along with a [Reveal] button. It was always a risk - these cards could give him extremely useful skills or, as had only happened to him so far, skills completely irrelevant to soccer. But there was no reason not to open it. As Lucas clicked to open it, an elaborate animation unfolded before his eyes. The map spun in the air before revealing itself. Lucas leaned forward, trying to decipher the gray text that began to appear. [Common Skill obtained!] [ unlocked]. Lucas blinked, stunned. He could hardly believe what he saw. "Judo? Why on earth would I need Judo?" The frustration was palpable. He wasn''t training to be a martial artist; his goal was soccer, and any skill that didn''t directly contribute to that seemed like a waste of resources. Still, he knew he couldn''t just ignore the skill. It was there, part of his arsenal, and who knew, it might come in handy at some point. "Okay... come on, next card. I hope its something better." He told himself, trying to keep the hope alive. The process was repeated, and Lucas held his breath as the second card was revealed. [General Skill Acquired!] [ unlocked]. This time, he couldn''t stop laughing. "Garden? Really? I should give up soccer and open a flower shop now?" Lucas shook his head, laughing at the irony of the situation. It was ridiculous. Sure, maybe if he wanted to grow the perfect lawn for playing soccer, the skill would be of some use, but on the field, during a game? Unlikely. He knew the system could be unpredictable, but this was becoming a bad joke. [If you don''t like the skills you''ve obtained, you can destroy them to try to obtain a skill with a higher rarity.] "Is that serious?" [Yes. However, the success rate is about 50%. Also, the higher the rarity of the card, the lower the chance of being able to evolve it]. Lucas ignored the second part of C¨¦os'' answer, focusing only on the first. "50%? Wait, if I destroy the cards and get cards of higher rarity, what''s the chance that they''ll be soccer-related?" [It is impossible to calculate this because the Champion system provides cards of every existing ability. Therefore, it''s true that the chances of getting a soccer-specific ability are low, but you can get abilities that help you on the field, such as ]. "Having a chance to get a skill like that is certainly better than having a skill that focuses on gardening." Lucas said with a smile. He was starting to get excited about the possibilities again. Chapter 36 35 - Obtain & Destroy Lucas Tanaka stared at the screen in front of him, a wry smile slowly fading as his thoughts raced.The initial frustration of getting skills that seemed to have nothing to do with soccer vanished as he pondered what C¨¦os had mentioned. The idea of destroying the cards to possibly get something better tempted him, but he knew there was a considerable risk involved. Uncertainty was part of the equation, and while 50% was a reasonable chance, it still meant that the other half of the possibilities could leave him empty-handed. Lucas shook his head, trying to put the dilemma aside for the moment. He had to focus on what was in front of him. The champion system had given him two loot boxes as a reward for his last few missions, and he was now pinning his hopes on them. The first was an epic loot box, a treasure chest wrapped in a pulsating purple aura. The second was an unusual loot box, simpler in appearance, but still shimmering with a slight green tint. "Let''s start with the least promising, shall we? If the worst comes to the worst, I still have the Epic to save me." He held out his hand, his fingers hovering over the unusual loot box. When he touched the box, a gentle animation unfolded. The sound of a lock opening echoed in his mind, followed by the greenish glow that grew until it completely enveloped him. The light slowly faded, revealing three items floating in front of him. [You have obtained the item: ] [You have obtained the item: ] Lucas raised an eyebrow as he examined the items. The boot immediately caught his eye. Its design was aerodynamic, with details in a shade of electric blue that seemed to pulsate. This boot had no branding, but it was beautiful. He knew that even though it was a level 2 boot, it probably offered some kind of speed boost - something that could be extremely useful on the field. The recovery gel, on the other hand, was handy, but not exactly what he expected from a loot box. "Well, it''s not all bad... At least there were two items this time." Lucas thought aloud, picking up the items and carefully placing them in his inventory. "But I really hope for more next time." His attention turned to the epic loot box. The purple glow seemed more intense now, as if the box itself was eager to be opened. He took a deep breath, feeling the weight of his decision. This box had the potential to change the course of things, to provide him with an item that could make all the difference in his journey. Lucas clicked on the epic loot box, and the animation that followed was even more magnificent. Sounds of metal being forged, like hammering on an anvil, mixed with the sound of stormy winds and thunder, all blending into a symphony that seemed to herald something monumental. The box opened with a flash of purple light, revealing three items floating majestically in front of him. [You have obtained the skill: ] [You have obtained the item: ] [You have obtained the item: ] For a moment, Lucas did not react. The first thing he noticed was the Titanic Weight skill. "This is it... That''s exactly what I needed!" Lucas exclaimed, feeling a wave of relief and excitement. "What does this skill do?" [The skill transforms your body weight into the equivalent of a 120 kg person for 1 minute.] "That''s good, but... won''t it slow you down?" [It will make you slower, but also much stronger and more resistant to impact]. In other words, although the Titanic Weight skill had its drawbacks, it also had its advantages for use on the field, such as making a pivot or not getting pushed into the opponent''s goal area. "I think I can leave this skill aside for now," Lucas muttered, still thinking about the other rewards. The Storm Sword glowed a deep blue, as if it was constantly surrounded by an invisible thunderstorm. The sword seemed to scream power, but Lucas knew that as tempting as it was, he didn''t have much use for such a deadly weapon in his current life. "But it could be useful if I could sell it... But it would be too risky to sell it to humans. Hey, C¨¦os, can I sell this sword to the system or to you?" [Yes, it''s possible to trade the sword for credits within the Champion System]. "Then I want to trade it." [The Storm Sword is currently worth 100 credits. Are you sure you want to complete the trade?"] "Is that a lot?" [Enough for you to buy a skill when you reach Star Level 10 and unlock the Champion Shop]. "Very well, you may make the exchange." Lucas picked up the Elixir of Sharp Sight and twirled the vial in his fingers. The substance inside had a greenish color. "This might come in handy someday... who knows?" Lucas carefully placed all the items in his inventory and turned his attention back to the abilities he had gained from the mysterious cards. The idea of destroying them and trying his luck at something better was tugging at him, and he knew he couldn''t rest until he''d tried it. "Let''s do it then. I won''t lose anything by trying." He said to himself. Lucas opened the Champion System menu, located the skills, and selected . A red button with the word [Destroy] appeared on the screen, pulsing slightly as if to encourage him to make the decision. "Are you sure about this, Lucas? Remember, destroying a skill doesn''t guarantee you''ll get something better." "I know. But I''d rather take the risk than keep a skill that has nothing to do with what I need now. Judo is good, but I need something that will help me win at soccer." With a deep sigh, Lucas pressed the destruct button. The screen flashed, and then the skill began to disintegrate, turning into a cloud of glowing particles that vanished into thin air. For a moment, nothing happened until a message appeared. [No skill obtained]. Lucas frowned, but shrugged. "Well, it was worth a try. I still have two more chances." Two more skills to destroy, but Lucas hesitated for a moment. This time, he selected the and clicked the [Destroy] button, and the skill began to disintegrate into a cloud of glowing particles. Lucas'' heart pounded as he waited for the result. When the screen flashed with the same message as before, he felt a wave of frustration. S§×arch* The N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. [No skills obtained]. "Damn... Weren''t my chances 50%?" "Yes, but 50% for each attempt. The chance of a coin landing on the same side twice is lower, but it''s not zero." Lucas closed his eyes for a moment and took a deep breath. Even though he had lost two abilities for nothing, there was still one last chance. "There''s no point in moping around... I''ve still got a chance." He selected the skill and destroyed it. Then the screen flashed again, and finally, a new skill appeared in front of him. [Rare skill of obtained!] [ Unlocked!] Chapter 37 36 - Hasumi Seiya The morning after Wushia High School''s decisive match against Itou High School came as a relief to the players.The exhaustion of the game was still weighing on their muscles, but it was accompanied by a feeling of satisfaction and euphoria that was slowly settling into their minds. The dramatic end to the game and Tsuyoshi Nishida''s spectacular goal had secured their passage to the next round of the Chubu Region Summer Championship. Now, they had the morning off to rest, because their game was the last of the day, towards the end of the afternoon, but some of the team wanted to watch the official opening of the championship at Asset Minato Stadium. Lucas Tanaka was carrying a bucket of popcorn and a large soft drink in his other hand. His mischievous smile indicated that he was looking forward to watching a live match. In his past life, there had been few chances to watch high school teams play live, because the Wushia High School club had lost a lot of strength with Nishida''s departure for England and they never got very far in the championships. When Tsuyoshi Nishida saw him approaching, he frowned and crossed his arms. "Lucas, you know you shouldn''t eat those things on a match day..." he said with a tone of disapproval. Lucas shrugged nonchalantly. "Oh, relax, Nishida. It''s just a bit of popcorn. It won''t kill me." He took an exaggerated bite, chewing slowly while keeping his gaze fixed on his friend. Sitting next to Nishida were Yukihiro and Kuwabara. Lucas sat down and noticed that Yukihiro still had a bandage around his ankle. "What''s up, Yukihiro, is your ankle any better?" Yukihiro shook his head affirmatively. "Yes, it''s much better. I talked to Mr. Yamamoto earlier, and he decided that I won''t be a starter in the game later. It''s the sensible thing to do, I think." "Yeah, it makes sense. Better to recover completely than risk a more serious injury. Besides, you can still play in the second game." "I hope so. But the important thing is that we stay in the league." S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Kuwabara, who had been silent until then, looked at Lucas with a curious look. "Do you think this afternoon''s match will be difficult?" Lucas chuckled as he tossed a handful of popcorn into his mouth. "It always is, Kuwabara. But after what we went through yesterday, I think we''re ready for anything." As the group chatted, the stadium''s stands became more and more crowded. The sound of animated conversations, laughter and distant shouts mixed with the music playing from the loudspeakers, creating a vibrant atmosphere. The opening game would be between Hanrahan High School, one of the most famous schools in the province, and a lesser-known opponent called Gramma High School. Even before the game, everyone knew that Hanrahan High School would be the center of attention. Time passed quickly, and soon the players from both teams began to take to the field. Hanrahan High School appeared first to warm up, their players wearing impeccably white uniforms with blue accents, a striking contrast against the green of the pitch. Confidence exuded from each of them, as if they knew they were destined for victory. The opposing team''s players followed close behind, a less imposing but determined group. They wore black and orange uniforms. The real shock came when the coaches of the two teams approached the pitch to observe the warm-up. The Gramma School coach was what everyone expected: an older man with gray hair and a serious expression, typical of someone with years of experience in school soccer. However, it was the coach from Hanrahan High School who really surprised everyone. Instead of a seasoned veteran, a young woman of around 17 or 18, with blue hair tied up in a high ponytail, walked in confidently. She was wearing a technical uniform from Hanrahan High School and had a cool demeanor. Her presence immediately caught everyone''s attention, including Lucas, who almost dropped his bucket of popcorn because he recognized her. "Do you see what I see?" muttered Lucas, nudging Nishida with his elbow. Nishida finally looked at the young technician. "Yeah, I don''t see that every day." Kuwabara immediately remembered that girl. "Hey, isn''t she the girl from our first day here?! The one who brought order to those slacker guys?" "Now that you''ve said it, I think she is." Yukihiro tried to remember if he had ever heard of a young technician like that. "Is she a prodigy?" Kuwabara shrugged. "I''ve never heard of her, but if she''s running Hanrahan High School. She must be good." Lucas, still impressed, remembered the girl''s words that day they met in the corridors near the locker room. If he wasn''t mistaken, her name was Hasumi Seiya, and she said that Lucas played like an animal and that he wasn''t suitable as a number 10 because he wasn''t elegant. "You know, I really want to see how her team performs," Lucas commented, putting a hand to his chin with an evil look on his face. Chapter 38 37 - Non-positional Hasumi Seiya''s tactics were evident from the first touches, and it soon became clear that this was no ordinary soccer match.The defense, made up of defenders who looked more like midfielders, exchanged short, precise passes, always keeping possession of the ball. Gramma High School seemed stunned by the speed and precision with which the passes were made. Their players ran from side to side, trying to keep up, but it soon became clear that they were being overpowered. Hanrahan''s style of play was a pure representation of the soccer ideas that Fernando Diniz, one of the most innovative coaches in world soccer, had popularized in Brazil. His concepts of fluid, dynamic positional soccer were applied to perfection by Hasumi Seiya. The main objective was not just to win the match, but to control the game, control the ball, and dictate the rhythm of every movement on the pitch. The non-positional system of play meant that the players were not locked into a fixed position. The defenders moved forward as midfielders, the full-backs cut into the middle of the field, the midfielders dropped back to help defend, and the forwards sometimes dropped back to pick up the ball. This mobility created an environment in which the opponent never knew where the next attack would come from, nor the defense. Lucas, fascinated, watched as the Hanrahan players moved as a cohesive unit, their short, quick passes cutting across the field like sharp blades. At the heart of this system was the midfield, the heart of the team. Hanrahan''s captain, a short, blond-haired player called Kazuki Nakamura, was the conductor of this orchestra. Kazuki wasn''t particularly imposing in stature, but his vision of the game was impressive. He would receive the ball from the defenders and, in the blink of an eye, distribute precise passes to the flanks or to the attack. Gramma High School tried to press him, but Kazuki always found a solution, dribbling or passing with an elegance that baffled his opponents. It wasn''t long before the first goal was scored. After a sequence of quick passes that began in defense, the ball arrived at Kazuki''s feet. He raised his head, analyzing the options and then, with a low, millimetre pass, found Hanrahan''s main striker, Hiroshi Saito, who had retreated to receive the ball between the opposing defenders. Hiroshi didn''t have to think twice. With a subtle touch, he turned his body and launched the ball to the right, where winger Takumi Endo was running towards the back line. Takumi, a quick and skillful player, received the pass and immediately crossed into the area. The cross, although unexpected for the Gramma defense, looked rehearsed. There, in the middle of the penalty area, was the second striker, Ryo Tanaka, who rose higher than the defenders and accurately headed the ball into the right corner of the goal. Lucas felt a shiver run down his spine. The precision, the coordination, the speed... it all reminded him of a true work of art in motion. He couldn''t help but wonder what it would be like to be on the pitch against such a team, facing such beautiful and destructive soccer at the same time. After conceding the first goal, Gramma High School tried to fight back. However, this only opened up more space for the opponents'' lethal counter-attacks. Every time Gramma attempted an attacking move, Hanrahan''s defense quickly closed in, regaining possession of the ball and initiating another series of short, precise passes. The ball was passed from foot to foot, without haste, while the Gramma players ran desperately, trying to keep up. The second goal came in a similar move to the first. Kazuki Nakamura, always the man, started the move with a short pass to left-back Ryota Maeda, who had cut into the middle. Ryota made a quick one-two with midfielder Makoto Shimizu, who then played the ball diagonally to Hiroshi Saito. Hiroshi, now positioned as a winger, dribbled past the defender marking him with a dry cut and crossed low to Ryo Tanaka, who deflected the ball into the back of the net with a simple touch. When the referee blew for half-time, the score was already 3-0 to Hanrahan High School. Gramma High School walked slowly off the pitch, visibly shaken. Meanwhile, the Hanrahan players were calm, as if it was just another day of training for them. The young coach, Hasumi Seiya, showed no sign of exaggerated emotion. She just watched her players, like a general planning his troops'' every move. Lucas, still shocked by the performance he had just witnessed, looked at his friends. "Did you see that? They make it look so easy!" Nishida, who was rarely impressed, gave a slight smile. "They''re good, no doubt about it. But what impresses me most is their calmness. It''s as if they know exactly what''s going to happen." sea??h th§× n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. "They don''t have many individual stars, but each of them knows their role and trusts the others." "That style of play... it''s almost like a trap." Kuwabara commented. "They make you think you have a chance, but the moment you try anything, you''re already surrounded." ''That girl, Hasumi Seiya... she knows what she''s doing.'' Lucas thought. When the teams returned to the field for the second half, Hanrahan High School continued to dominate possession, passing the time with a mastery that only elite teams possess. The ball passed through Kazuki Nakamura''s feet on almost every play. He was the brains of the team, always controlling the pace of the game, dictating when to speed up and when to slow down. His vision allowed him to find the spaces that the Gramma players didn''t even know existed. The fourth goal came 15 minutes into the second half. Kazuki Nakamura received the ball in midfield and soon found Takumi Endo on the right wing. Takumi, using his speed, skipped past two defenders before cutting inside and firing a cross into the goalkeeper''s left-hand corner. The ball flew into the net, and the Gramma goalkeeper didn''t even have time to react. With the score already 4-0, Hanrahan High School began to show their superiority even more. Not only were they in control of the game, but they were now starting to play with their opponents. The passing became even faster and more engaging, with heel touches and first-time passes that drew gasps from the crowd. It was as if they were playing a practice match, while Gramma were trapped in a nightmare. Finally, the fifth goal came from a brilliant move. Kazuki Nakamura, again in command, found Ryota Maeda with a precise pass. Ryota advanced down the left and crossed into the area. But instead of trying to finish, Ryo Tanaka, who already had two goals to his name, slipped a pass to Hiroshi Saito, who, unmarked, just pushed the ball into the empty net. When the final whistle blew, the score was 5-0 to Hanrahan High School. Gramma''s team was devastated, but Hanrahan simply lined up in the center of the pitch, politely greeting their opponents before leaving. There were no exaggerated celebrations, no gestures of provocation. They knew they had done a good job, but for them, this was just another step on their long journey to the league title. From the look on their faces, this victory was natural because for them it was only the first game of the championship and for them there was no way a good team could lose the first game. Chapter 39 38 - Tahara High School Tahara High School''s performance was a surprise to everyone. They had expected to win their first game, as they always do very well in the National Championships, but they had recently lost their coaching staff to a J-League club, so there was a shadow of uncertainty over them and no one knew exactly who the coach was.They just didn''t imagine that the team''s new coach would be a 17-year-old girl in her third year of high school. Many were disbelieving, and some spectators on the internet even said they would bet on the team losing, but there wasn''t a second after the whistle blew that Tahara High didn''t prove to be on a higher level than their opponents, both technically and tactically. After the game was over, the spectators in the stands were convinced that they weren''t going to see another team of such a high standard on this day, even though it was the first official day of the championship. "Uaaww!" Kuwabara squinted, stretching out his arms and looking away. "Hey, did anyone see where Tanaka went?" "He must have gone to fill his popcorn bucket or get more soda." Yukihiro said. "That guy... Stay here, I''ll stop him before he gets stuffed and takes ill before today''s game." Nishida stood up. In fact, Lucas was walking away from the stadium''s candy stand, in the opposite direction to be precise. Lucas walked through the stadium with quick, determined steps. The crowd around him barely registered his presence, absorbed in the frenzy that followed the end of the Tahara High School game. In Lucas'' mind, however, there was no room for the euphoria that still hung in the air. Hasumi Seiya''s words echoed in his head, hammering incessantly since he had first heard them. "I mean you have no finesse. You replaced the other number 10 and you''re even a bit better, but a real number 10 plays with elegance as if he were wearing a suit. You just run around like a savage. You''re desperate, you''re rash, you don''t show calm at any time. Even during the game, you look scared." These words hit him like a gust of icy wind. He thought he was doing well, yet Seiya, the young coach from Tahara High School, had cast a shadow of doubt over it all. And now, more than ever, Lucas needed to understand exactly what she meant by that. As he walked across the stadium, he thought about what he had witnessed during the match. The Tahara High School players seemed to move in perfect synchrony, as if they were parts of a single organism. There were no fixed positions, no traditional number 10 who dictated the pace of the game. Instead, all the players constantly changed position, adapting to the flow of the game with impressive fluidity. Lucas arrived at the entrance to the teams'' changing room, where two security guards were stationed. "I need to speak to coach Hasumi Seiya," he said. The security guards exchanged a glance before one of them replied. "She''s not receiving visitors or interviewers right now. Her team is resting." "It''s important. Tell them that Lucas Tanaka from Wushia High School wants to talk to her." The security guard seemed inclined to refuse again, but the determination in Lucas''s gaze made him hesitate. "Wait here." One of the security guards asked, turning to enter the locker room. Lucas waited. He wasn''t sure what he was hoping to achieve with this conversation, but something inside him knew that he needed to hear her explanation. It wasn''t long before the security guard returned, nodding. "You have five minutes. She''s waiting for you in the technical committee room," he said, allowing Lucas to pass. Lucas soon found the door he was looking for. It was slightly ajar after a man and a woman had left and entered the players'' changing room. Lucas took a deep breath, pushed the door open and entered. The room was modest, but well organized. A large whiteboard occupied the opposite wall, filled with tactical diagrams, arrows, circles and notes that clearly indicated the meticulous preparation of a strategic mind. A small sofa was against the wall to the right, with a low table full of papers, bottles of water and a pile of notebooks. In the center of the room, with her hands in the pockets of a black sports jacket, was Hasumi Seiya. She looked even younger than when seen from afar. "Lucas Tanaka, isn''t it?" Seiya said, with no particular tone of welcome or surprise, just a statement of fact. "I wanted... I need to understand what you meant that day, about me not having the finesse to be a number 10." Seiya raised an eyebrow, as if pondering his answer, then gestured to a nearby chair. "Sit down, Lucas." He obeyed, feeling uncomfortable and exposed, and Hasumi remained standing, walking slowly towards the tactical board. "You want to understand what I mean." Seiya began, almost rhetorically. "Very well. I''ll be blunt, then: you have energy, speed, a good pass and an undeniable will to win. However, that''s not enough to be a team''s number 10, otherwise all professional players would be number 10s." S~ea??h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Lucas frowned, feeling a slight heat of frustration rise in his chest. "But from what I''ve seen of your team, no one plays like a traditional number 10. Your players don''t have fixed positions. They move around all the time, change positions, adapt to the game... So how can you say I''m not suited to being a number 10 if no one in your team plays like that either?" Seiya smiled, an enigmatic smile that made Lucas feel even more uncomfortable. "Exactly. You''ve captured the essence of my strategy. I believe that modern soccer requires flexibility that goes beyond static positions. All my players need to be able to operate in different areas of the pitch, to adapt to situations in real time, and that requires a keen tactical mind and, most importantly, calmness. It goes in the opposite direction to the philosophy of great coaches like Guardiola and J¨¹rgen Klopp, but I believe that this tactical scheme will become more and more popular in modern soccer, because there are no more number 10 players like there used to be." Chapter 40 39 - Besides... "What do you mean there are no more number 10s like there used to be? I can give you some examples." Lucas asked."That''s literally it. The number 10s of yesteryear were complete, calm, knew how to do everything, how to set up a team, attack, defend, they worked magic. However, in soccer as intense as it is today, such complete players will become increasingly rare. Therefore, the team that has the greatest number of players who know how to do everything on the pitch will be the one that stands out. All my players need to be able to do the minimum depending on the situation on the pitch. It''s a style of play that requires intelligence, discipline and, above all, experience." She paused, studying Lucas'' reaction. He was attentive, but there was a certain rigidity in his posture, as if he was prepared for an attack. "When I say you lack finesse, I''m not referring to your ability with the ball or your ability to deal with opponents. I''m talking about the way you behave on the pitch. You play as if you''re in a race against time, always accelerating, always on the verge of desperation. That can be useful in some situations, but it''s not what a number 10 does." Lucas felt the blood rise to his face. He had always been praised for his energy, his ability to move quickly from one position to another, to appear in every corner of the pitch. And now here she was, a 17-year-old coach, criticizing precisely those qualities. "So you think I should play slower?" Seiya shook his head negatively with an almost imperceptible smile on his lips. "No, Lucas. It''s not a question of speed. It''s a question of control. You need to learn to dominate the game, to impose your own pace rather than be carried away by it. That''s what differentiates the great players from the average ones." She approached the tactical board and picked up a marker. With quick, precise movements, she began to draw a formation, highlighting the positions and routes of movement that her players followed. "You see, in my team, the players are constantly on the move. There are no fixed positions, because modern soccer requires constant adaptation. Each player needs to be able to operate in different areas of the pitch, depending on what the game requires at that moment. This means that, for example, a defender can become a midfielder in a given situation, or a striker can drop back to set up play. But for this to work, you need a deep understanding of the game and, more importantly, the ability to remain calm in any situation." She turned to Lucas and continued: "You have energy, you have speed, and yes, you have a good pass. But you still play scared, Lucas. You''re afraid of making mistakes. And fear makes you lose control." The comment hit Lucas like a punch in the gut. "Fear?" Lucas repeated, almost in disbelief. "I''m not afraid. I play with intensity because that''s how I can give my best." "Intensity isn''t the problem. The problem is the lack of control over that intensity. You get carried away by the adrenaline, and that makes you lose sight of the big picture. You see the game as a series of individual battles, but you can''t see the war as a whole." Her words were harsh, but somehow Lucas knew there was truth in them. He had always been an instinctive player, relying on his natural ability to try and stand out. However, as he ended up as an office worker, all that effort was for nothing. "You have to learn to master time. Great players don''t run all the time; they know when to speed up and when to slow down. They know when to wait and when to attack. That''s what I mean by finesse. You know Messi, don''t you?" "Of course I know him. Who doesn''t?" "Messi is the best example of what I''m trying to say. He''s not just fast or skillful. He controls the game. He dictates the pace, decides when to accelerate, when to hold the ball up, when to look for the killer move. And he does all this with a calmness that disarms his opponents. It''s this finesse that sets him apart. He''s not just a player; he''s a conductor, leading the orchestra around him. At times he seems listless, but suddenly, when he picks up the ball, everything catches fire." "I understand what you''re saying." Lucas finally admitted. "But how do I change that? How can I become the player you''re describing?" "The first thing is to learn to breathe. Literally. When you feel the game getting out of control, stop for a second. Take a deep breath, analyze the situation, and then decide what to do. Don''t let the adrenaline take over. Experienced players know that often the best move is to wait, observe, and then act. You have potential, Lucas," said Seiya, his voice softer now. "But you need to learn to control your game, to not let the game control you." If Lucas wanted to become the player he had always dreamed of, he would need to change his approach. And, strangely, he felt a growing gratitude for Seiya. Few coaches or teachers had been so direct with him, and none had cared enough to try to shape him in this way. "Why did you tell me all this? I mean, we''re from different schools. We could end up facing each other in a possible final. Why did you agree to help me and then reveal so much about your team''s style of play?" Hasumi put the marker away and crossed her arms, tilting her head slightly as she considered Lucas'' question. "You''re right. We could face each other in a final. But that''s just a detail. The truth is that I believe my team can beat any opponent, regardless of how much they know about our tactics. I''m not worried about that." S§×ar?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Lucas frowned, trying to understand what she was implying. "Besides..." she said, raising a finger as if she was about to make an important revelation. "I don''t think you''ll even make it to the semi-finals." "What do you mean?" "The team that won the Nationals at the start of the year is on your side of the bracket. I''m talking about Nishikawa College. You might win your next match, but I doubt you''ll get past them in the quarter-finals. They have an extremely strong and experienced team, with players who understand the game on a much deeper level than most. Some of them will go on to become professionals." Chapter 41 40 - Anxious Hasumi Seiya''s last sentence echoed in Lucas'' head like a thunderclap that wouldn''t go away."You can win the next match, but I doubt you''ll get past them in the quarter-finals..." S§×arch* The N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Even as he left the stadium, with his friends exchanging views on the game, he felt isolated, trapped in a whirlwind of thoughts. As they walked through the busy streets to get back to the hotel, Baro, Yukihiro and Kuwabara were still enthusiastically discussing the game they had watched. Hasumi Seiya''s tactics and Hanrahan College''s soccer display were on every lips. However, Lucas walked in silence, his steps mechanically following those of the others, his mind wandering through the clouds of uncertainty that Seiya had sown. The vibrant melody of the big city, with the sounds of conversations, honking horns and the constant murmur of urban life, were drowned out by the cacophony of doubts that now invaded his thoughts. Finally, when they arrived at the hotel where the team was staying, Lucas secluded himself in his room, under the pretext that he needed to rest. But as he lay on his bed, staring at the ceiling, no rest came. He spent hours like this, debating internally, until it was time for them to return to the stadium. The changing room where Wushia College changed was filled with the sound of boots hitting the floor, the excited chatter of the players and the rustle of uniforms being adjusted. Lucas, however, was stuck in contemplative silence, sitting on a bench in the corner of the changing room. His team shirt was already adjusted to his body, but his boots remained by his side, untied. He lowered his head and began to tie them mechanically, but the knot seemed to fall apart in his mind, repeating the gesture several times without success. Yuuga, who sat a few meters away, watched his friend. He noticed Lucas'' worried expression and the repetitive movement of his hands, tying and untying his boots as if he were trapped in some kind of trance. With a worried frown, Yuuga got up and walked over to him, crouching down beside him. "Hey, Lucas." Yuuga called out softly, trying not to disturb the other players who were still concentrating on their own preparation. "Is everything all right?" Lucas was slow to answer, as if he had been pulled from a distant world. Finally, he looked at Yuuga, his eyes showing the confusion he felt inside. "I... I''m just thinking, Yuuga." said Lucas, trying to force a smile, but failing miserably. "Nothing much, I''m just thinking." Yuuga frowned. "Thinking about what? You''ve looked worried ever since you came to watch the game earlier with the other boys. Did someone mess with you or something?" Lucas felt exposed. He hadn''t realized that he had let on that he was so focused on his thoughts. "I''ve been thinking all day about ways to get our team to play in different formations. Mr. Yamamoto is an older, more experienced coach and I trust him, but he''s out on the pitch and won''t always be able to see what we players see, so I want to be able to change the smallest things to make us do better." Lucas lowered his eyes to his boots, which were now firmly tied. "I just... I want the team to have a chance to fight, Yuuga. I saw how Hanrahan College played today. They''re a finely tuned machine, every move on the pitch is calculated, like a work of art in execution. And I... I wonder if we''re prepared to face something like that." Yuuga nodded slowly, understanding the depth of his friend''s concerns. "I know what you mean. Me and the other kids saw how incredible they were because we were watching the broadcast online, but that doesn''t mean we don''t stand a chance. Every team has its weaknesses, even the best ones. If we can figure out how to exploit those weaknesses within the 90 minutes, we could have the game in our favor." Lucas let out a sigh. "It''s easy to say, but how? How are we going to achieve that when they always seem to be two steps ahead?" Yuuga smiled, an encouraging smile full of confidence. "You''ve led the team through difficult situations before, and I know you can do it again. There''s no need to be so anxious about this kind of thing." Yuuga''s words were simple, but they carried a weight that Lucas couldn''t ignore. ''Anxious? Me? I''ve never thought of myself as anxious, but... in fact, I''m worrying about problems that haven''t even arisen yet.'' Lucas thought and then smiled at Yuuga. "You''re right, Yuuga. Thank you for your words. Yuuga smiled in response and tapped Lucas lightly on the shoulder. "It was nothing. Now, let''s finish getting ready. We have a game to win." Lucas nodded, feeling a little lighter. He finished packing his boots, this time with firm, determined hands. When the Wushia College players took to the pitch, they were greeted by a wave of applause from the fans they had won over in the city since the tournament began. The pitch was spotless, the white lines glistening under the floodlights. The early evening air was cool, with a light breeze blowing, bringing with it the smell of freshly cut grass. Lucas took a deep breath, closing his eyes for a moment to take it all in. When he opened his eyes again, he felt ready, more centered and focused than ever. Mr. Yamamoto, the coach of Wushia College, was standing at the side of the pitch, watching his players. He was an elderly man with gray hair and a serious countenance. "You know what you need to do. Remember what we''ve trained, but above all, trust each other. This is our game. No matter who the opponent is, play with heart and the rest will fall into place." The team knew that winning this match would not be an easy task, but they also knew that if they played as a team, they always had a chance. Chapter 42 41 - Gekokujou [High School Wushia 0-1 High School Gekokujou].Twenty minutes into the first half, Lucas was running around the pitch with his eyes fixed on the ball moving between his opponents'' feet. The opposing team, Gekokujou, were not easy opponents, as they were also in the main tournament. They played with a combination of physical strength and technique that demanded the maximum from all the Wushia players. However, Lucas felt that, despite the goal conceded, the team''s morale was intact. Gekokujou had scored in the 15th minute, following a positioning error in the Wushia defense. The central defender, Hidefumi, had gone up to try to cut out a cross, but the timing of his impulse was wrong, leaving one of the opposing strikers free to head it into the left corner, out of the reach of goalkeeper Toshinori. The goal came quickly, and Gekokujou celebrated with the intensity of a team that believed it had taken control of the match. But Wushia were undeterred. They had faced adversity before and knew that the game of soccer was a continuous ninety-minute battle, where every second counted. "Let''s not lose our heads," said Lucas, his voice firm but calm. "It was only one goal. We have plenty of time to turn it around. Keep doing what we train, trust each other, and remember: the game isn''t over until the final whistle." Those words reverberated inside every player. They knew Lucas was right. Coach Yamamoto had always emphasized that the game of soccer was as much mental as physical. No matter how well or badly things were going, keeping a cool head was essential. Lucas, playing as a central midfielder with Yukihiro back and Tsukada remaining in the first team, was less likely to go forward and was just coordinating the attack, looking for spaces between Gekokujou''s defensive lines, basically what he would normally do if he didn''t have a system. This was bothering him. Lucas knew that the opponent, having scored early, would probably retreat to protect the advantage. And that''s what Wushia needed to exploit. As they approached the half-hour mark, Lucas received a pass from Yukihiro, who had dropped back to look for play after seeing that he wouldn''t be able to pass on the left. At that moment, Lucas used , deceiving his direct marker and opening up space in midfield. He raised his head and saw Tsukada on the right wing, accelerating parallel to the sideline. Without hesitation, Lucas delivered a shot that cut through the opposition defense like a hot knife through butter. Tsukada masterfully controlled the ball, but was soon surrounded by two defenders. Instead of trying a one-on-one, he opted for a pass into the box, where Nishida, the center forward, was already positioned. The ball reached the feet of Nishida, who immediately tried to shoot, but was blocked by one of the Gekokujou defenders, who made a precise tackle. However, Lucas didn''t let the opportunity slip away. He ran on to the ball that was left outside the penalty area and struck it first time. The shot was low and placed, but the opposing goalkeeper stretched as far as he could and managed to put it out for a corner. "Shit, my shot''s too weak." One part of the stadium let out a sigh of frustration, while the other, perhaps the majority, celebrated. At that moment, Lucas looked to his right and saw a wall of green shirts with white stripes. This was the Gekokujou crowd, a huge crowd with more than 2,000 fans present waving poles and banners. "Seriously, why do they have so many fans? I know it''s the weekend, but it doesn''t make sense to have so many people here to watch a high school game." Lucas thought aloud. The corner was taken by Lucas, who put the ball into the center of the box with a perfect cross. Hidefumi, the defender who had missed the opponent''s goal, rose higher than anyone and headed the ball in. The ball, however, went straight into the hands of the goalkeeper, who held firm and quickly launched a counter-attack. Gekokujou, aware of the need not to retreat too far, began to throw long balls to their speedy forwards. In one of these moves, Wushia''s right-back Kuwabara was outpaced by the speed of Gekokujou''s left-winger, who advanced quickly to the by-line. He crossed low with his three toes, making the ball take a bizarre curve, and the Gekokujou striker narrowly missed the ball, which passed through the penalty area untouched. As the half wore on, Wushia High School kept up the pressure, but the goal still hadn''t come. Coach Yamamoto watched from the sidelines. He knew his team was playing well, but needed something more. He approached the sideline and called Lucas over for a quick instruction. S§×ar?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. "Lucas, they''re retreating. Tell the others to keep trying to make runs down the wings and crosses, keep pressing and then Nishida will score at some point. Take care of the defense, though. They''re waiting for a mistake from us to try for the second goal." Lucas agreed. He knew the coach was right. They couldn''t be careless, but they couldn''t despair either. They had to keep a cool head and stay focused. ''Should I use that skill? I haven''t received a mission for this game yet and...'' Lucas was thinking when, just then, a system window popped up for him. [The mission "Oppressive Silence" has been granted.] [Main Mission: Oppressive Silence Description: Gekokujou High School is famous in Nagoya for having sports teams that excel in all competitions. Their fans are big precisely because they win a lot and therefore underestimate lesser opponents, so how about shutting them up? Goal: Humiliate Gekokujou High School to the point where their fans stop cheering. Rewards: +40 Star Points +1 Rare Loot Box +200 Credits]. Chapter 43 42 - Shut them up completely The system, always enigmatic and unpredictable, had just given him a mission that was both challenging and irresistible. "Oppressive Silence".Gekokujou College was known for its fervent fans, and the idea of shutting them up with a brilliant performance sounded like a challenge worthy of his talent and the system he possessed. "Shut them up, huh?" muttered Lucas to himself with a slight smile forming on his lips. The mission was risky, but the rewards were tempting: more Star Points, a Rare Loot Box and Credits. However, what attracted Lucas most was the chance to show Gekokujou and the rest of the audience that Wushia was not an opponent to be underestimated. The game resumed and Wushia College pressed again, following Yamamoto''s instructions. Lucas received the ball from Tsukada, who had repositioned himself further back to support the midfield. With possession, Lucas advanced while keeping the ball close to his feet and observing the movements of the opposing players. Gekokujou had retreated quickly, as he had predicted, setting up a solid defense to protect the advantage they had gained earlier in the game. But Lucas had already played against a team with the same tactics in this championship and knew that this strategy had its flaws. By dropping back too far, Gekokujou left gaps between the defensive lines, and it was precisely in these gaps that they planned to attack. As he approached the opponent''s area, Lucas discreetly activated the skill, a technique that allowed him to deceive his marker with a subtle, almost imperceptible movement. His marker, a Gekokujou midfielder, tried to anticipate Lucas'' move, but was completely fooled. In an instant, Lucas turned his body as if he was going to pass to the left, but instead he changed direction, leaving his marker behind. With the space he had created, Lucas raised his head and saw Yukihiro running down the left, accelerating along the sideline. It was a good opportunity. Lucas took a long throw, and the ball cut through the air until it landed near Yukihiro, who controlled the ball and soon saw two defenders approaching. He could have tried to dribble, but opted for a more collective approach. Looking towards the center of the area, he saw Nishida, the center forward, already positioning himself between the defenders. He remembered Tsukada''s failed cross, so he opted for a low cross. Nishida was ready to shoot, but a Gekokujou defender was ahead of him and about to block his shot. Luckily, Tsukada appeared in the middle of the area, anticipating a tackle that could have been made. Tsukada didn''t hesitate. With a burst of force, he kicked the ball with the instep of his foot, sending a missile towards the goal. The sound of the impact echoed through the stadium, and for a brief moment, time seemed to slow down. The ball flew towards the top left corner, but the Gekokujou goalkeeper, with amazing reflexes, leapt like a feline. His fingers touched the ball, deflecting it slightly, but enough for it to hit the crossbar with a metallic clang. The ball returned to the center of the box, spinning in the air like helpless prey. The Gekokujou defenders, still disoriented by the rapid progress of the play, jumped desperately, trying to clear the danger. But Nishida, with almost superhuman strength, stood between them like a titan. His eyes were fixed on the ball. Nishida rose higher than anyone, his body defying gravity. For an instant, he hovered in the air, his muscles tensed, and then, with a precise movement, he headed the ball with all the force he could muster. The impact was brutal, the ball crossing the space that seemed to widen between the defenders. Sear?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. The ball found the back of the net with a bang that seemed to silence the stadium. The Gekokujou fans, who had previously been roaring like a raging sea, fell silent. An oppressive silence, just as Lucas had imagined. Nishida fell back to the ground, panting, but with a victorious smile on his lips. Lucas ran to celebrate with Nishida, and the energy of the Wushia College team, which had previously seemed restrained, exploded in a wave of confidence and determination. They knew the game was far from over, but that move had been a huge blow to their opponents'' morale. The Gekokujou goalkeeper, still on the ground, punched the grass in frustration, while his teammates looked around, trying to understand what had happened, where the mistake had been. The solid defense they had built had been destroyed in the blink of an eye, and now they were at a disadvantage. On the other side of the pitch, Mr. Yamamoto was applauding loudly, his voice rising above the noise that was beginning to take over the stadium again. He knew that goal could be the turning point, and his confidence in the team was renewed. But the game wasn''t won. Gekokujou were not a team that surrendered easily, and neither were their fans. While Lucas, Nishida and the others were still celebrating, the wall of green shirts gathered in the stands began to chant in support of Gekokujou College, making them feel that they were not alone. "Shut them up completely..." thought Lucas aloud. Silencing a large crowd was not an easy task for almost any team or player, because as long as a small group of the crowd still had faith, that faith could quickly be spread to everyone else, changing morale. However, as difficult as this task was, it wasn''t impossible. Normally, fans of teams that are used to winning are the worst, because the tide of morale that the team has with its fans can quickly turn and make the fans turn against the team itself. Chapter 44 43 - First Half The Gekokujou High School fans, who had previously been chanting from the bottom of their chests, became quiet and began to complain amongst themselves. At that moment, booing sounds could be heard, but they were still few and far between and it wasn''t possible to tell whether the booing was for the Gekokujou players or for Nishida, who was celebrating with his arms open to the opposing fans.Lucas, however, wasn''t satisfied with just that. One goal wasn''t enough to silence such a ferocious crowd for the rest of the game. To do that, it was necessary to crush not only the spirit of the opposing players, but also that of the supporters. When Nishida returned with the others to their side of the pitch, and the game was about to be restarted, the Gekokujou College crowd started chanting loudly again. "These guys don''t give up easily." Lucas thought aloud. Hidefumi gave a lopsided smile. "And they won''t stop. It''s getting annoying." "For us? Of course. After all, we''re the ones playing against all this pressure. But for them..." Lucas pointed with his chin at the opposing players who were in midfield for the restart. The Gekokujou College players were wearing expressions that expressed all the eagerness they were feeling for the goal. They were frowning and looking down. "Huu... What a fright." Tsukada quipped. Unlike Tsukada, Lucas was not someone who usually underestimated opponents, especially when the opponent was such a traditional school in the Chubu Region. So, after the game restarted, Lucas rushed to put pressure on his opponent. Surprisingly, Gekokujou''s midfield had some obvious cracks, the result of their haste to score. They were still trying to stick to their formation, but they were a bit disjointed because we were marking high and, as a result, not only did they need to be in a hurry to pass, they also needed to create good moves. S§×ar?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. At one point, the ball reached one of the Gekokujou defenders, but the pass was miscalculated. "Oh, shit!" Before another player could correct the mistake, Lucas appeared like a shadow, stealing the ball with ease. The defender in question, number 4, tried to chase Lucas down. However, Lucas was advancing like a predator that smells blood. The defense was instantly disorganized. The fear in the eyes of the Gekokujou players was as clear as if they had seen a haunting in front of them. They tried to reposition themselves while marking Tsukada and Nishida, but panic took over anyway. Lucas evaded the first defender with a light touch, and the boy, clearly frightened, nearly tripped over trying to keep up. Another player approached, trying to close the angle, but hesitated for a fraction of a second - and that was enough. Lucas fired a left-footed shot, a missile straight into the bottom right-hand corner. The goalkeeper, desperate, threw himself at the ball, but it was too late. The net rattled and, once again, the Gekokujou fans stopped singing in bewilderment. Expressions of disbelief and shock spread like a virus through the stands. And then the murmurs began once again. It was no longer fervent support; it was the sound of a crowd beginning to lose faith. The Gekokujou players were in despair. Their breathing was rapid, sweat dripping down their faces as they exchanged frightened glances. Lucas could see the fear in each of their eyes and, for some reason, he felt good, because in his past life, after Nishida left school, this happened many times until the end of high school. Now, with two goals scored in less than five minutes against one of the strongest schools in the region, Wushia High School was clearly on the rise. This team, which had previously only been seen as cautious and afraid to make mistakes, was pressing their opponents relentlessly. But Lucas wanted more. He had to shut them up completely, put an end to any hope. A few minutes later, Gekokujou attempted a counter-attack, but it was disastrous. A pass in midfield was intercepted by Kenji, who quickly passed the ball to Tsukada, who played it to Nishida and the ball easily fell to Lucas. The Gekokujou players, visibly terrified, tried to retreat, but they were disoriented. When Lucas got close to the box, three defenders tried to surround him. Fear showed in their eyes - fear of failing, of leaving their team even more exposed. They knew what was at stake. Lucas, however, kept his cool, used , and left the three players completely lost. For him, it was as if they were playing in slow motion. The last defender fell to the ground as he tried to make a desperate tackle, but Lucas had already left him behind. Facing the goalkeeper, he did something unexpected: a subtle touch, deflecting the ball with class into the opposite corner. The goalkeeper, completely fooled, didn''t even move. The third goal had been scored, and this time there were no murmurs. Just silence. 3-1 to Wushia College in the first half. The Gekokujou fans were devastated. Many lowered their heads, unable to watch the massacre on the pitch. Some angrily started shouting profanities at the players, while others seemed frozen, unable to believe what they were seeing. On the other side of the pitch, the Gekokujou coach was desperately shouting to his players, trying to wake them up from the nightmare they had fallen into. But his distant words were in vain. The players were lost, sinking into a sea of insecurity and fear. What had once been a strong and imposing team was now a group of terrified youngsters with no direction. "Doesn''t this count in the system as a completed mission? Does it only count when the game is on? If that''s the case, we have to score more goals so they don''t have the chance to come back after the break." Chapter 45 44 - Well Done When the players left for the break, the scoreboard on the big screen showed a surprisingly one-sided result for Wushia College. 3 a 0.As Lucas walked to the front of the group, he heard sparse praise from his teammates. He was panting, tired, with sweat running down his face because he had given his all throughout the first half. However, the satisfaction of seeing the opposing team bewildered was surprisingly pleasurable. As soon as the Wushia College players entered the dressing room, Mr. Yamamoto arrived shortly behind. He waited patiently until everyone was settled and said: "Attention, everyone, we''re playing! Congratulations, everyone!" The excited players started clapping, but Mr. Yamamoto was a very experienced coach and knew how dangerous confidence could be. "However, don''t think we''re close to winning. Yes, the score is 3-0, but two of these goals were lucky strikes, and the other Lucas pulled off a miracle in attack. We''re scoring well, but a big part of that is because, at that moment, the Col¨¦gio Gekokujou players weren''t mentally present on the pitch. I''m sure that will change when we come back for the second half, because they have a psychologist on their coaching staff and so they will deal with this scoreline. In fact, I think they''ll come back with even more verve than at the start of the first half." While Yamamoto was talking to the rest of the team about keeping up the pressure in the second half, Lucas couldn''t help but notice the leering looks Tsukada was giving him. He tried to disguise it, but it was clear that something was bothering him. Lucas began to suspect what it might be, but he didn''t want to pay any attention to it at the moment. He preferred to focus on the game and the fact that they were on their way to an important victory. "We''re playing well, but we still have a lot of work to do." Yamamoto continued, looking each player in the eye. "Gekokujou are a dangerous team. We need to be on our toes and keep up the pace. No slacking off." The players nodded in unison, absorbing the coach''s words. Yamamoto then looked at Lucas and said: "Keep it up, Lucas. You''re being more offensive than ever, and that''s breaking down their defense. I want to see more of that in the second half." "Roger that, coach!" Lucas replied with a discreet smile forming on his lips. It was nice to hear recognition, especially coming from Yamamoto, a coach known for being demanding and rarely handing out compliments. As the team prepared to return to the field, Lucas felt Tsukada''s eyes on him once again, a heavy, uncomfortable energy. The number 10, who was usually an egocentric person, was quieter than usual. The players began to get up to return to the pitch. Lucas, already prepared, adjusted the laces of his boots, but it was then that he heard Tsukada''s voice calling his name. "Lucas." He stopped, turning to face his teammate. Tsukada was standing with his arms crossed and a serious look on his face. The other players continued to leave the changing room, but the silence between the two of them was like an isolated bubble. S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. "Do you have a problem with me?" Tsukada asked abruptly. "Or are you angry about something?" Lucas blinked, surprised. "What are you talking about?" For a moment, bewilderment took over his expression. He really hadn''t understood what was going on. But then it all started to make sense. The way Tsukada had watched him during the game, the way he seemed to avoid direct contact, and now, this question. It was clear. Tsukada was feeling threatened. He was afraid of losing his place as the star of the midfield. Lucas took a deep breath, thinking about how to respond without aggravating the situation. He knew that in soccer, players'' egos and confidence were delicate aspects, especially when it came to players like Tsukada, who had always been the team''s attacking highlight alongside Nishida. "Tsukada, you''re thinking too much." Lucas said, looking back over his shoulder. "I''m not trying to steal your place. I''m not here to compete with you. We''re on the same team. If I''m playing well, it''s because I''m trying hard, just like you. What I need is for you to accompany me and Nishida. If the three of us are on the same page, you''ll score your goals too. We just need to play as a team." "So... you''re not trying to get me out of the team?" Tsukada asked. Lucas shook his head negatively. "You think that because I took your place that time, right? You worry too much about these things. When Yukihiro can come back for the next game, I''m sure Mr. Yamamoto will find a way to keep everyone together. Now, come on, the second half is about to start." Tsukada nodded, finally showing a small, albeit crooked, smile. They left the changing room together. Indeed, the second half was about to begin, and Wushia College had a clear mission: to keep up the pressure and secure victory. The conversation with Tsukada brought to light something that Lucas had known for a long time, but had only now really understood. Soccer, as individual as it could be at times, was a team sport. It wasn''t enough to be good; you had to be in tune with the others. And Lucas saying he didn''t like Tsukada or something like that wouldn''t help, so he supported his colleague. The ball was placed in the center of the pitch and the referee started the second half. Gekokujou, as Yamamoto had predicted, were trying to mount a desperate comeback, and they were indeed doing better. However, the Wushia College team were still better in midfield. When Kenji made a tackle just behind midfield, he laid the ball off to Lucas, who shot forward. He waited for the ball to bounce a voice on the ground and then took it in his stride. "Tanaka! Over here!" Nishida shouted, and Lucas saw a passing opportunity between the defense. However, just as he was about to make the pass to Nishida, something unexpected happened. Suddenly, Lucas felt the impact. It was as if the world around him exploded in pain and shock. A high, brutal, underhand tackle had hit his right ankle. He barely had time to react before he was knocked to the ground. The green, damp grass of the pitch met him hard, and he felt the impact reverberate throughout his body. A scream escaped his lips before he could stop it, and he immediately grabbed his ankle with both hands. The pain was intense, sharp, as if something inside his foot had been crushed. Lucas tried to move, but the pain was too strong. As he lay on the ground, Lucas looked up and saw the figure of the player who had knocked him down getting up. It was one of the Gekokujou defenders, a burly young man with a hard expression and eyes full of contempt. He began to walk backwards without the slightest concern, as if the act he had just committed was something trivial. With a cold expression, he spat on the ground, a few centimeters from Lucas'' face, and said with a tone full of disdain: "I did well. You''re thinking you''re winning. But we''re in charge here, you bumpkin bastards." Chapter 46 45 - Serious injury? "I did well. You''re thinking you''re the boss just because you''re winning. But we''re in charge here, you redneck bastards," said the player who had knocked Lucas down.The referee whistled frantically, running towards the scene. Players from both teams began to approach, some indignant at the foul being called, and others wanting to defend Lucas. For the first time, Kenji''s face was showing anger. He glared at the Gekokujou player and pushed him with his arms. "Are you crazy? That cart was ridiculous! Do you want to end his career?" Kenji shouted indignantly. The Gekokujou player feigned indifference and raised his arms. "I didn''t do it on purpose! I swear!" At this point, the referee was already between the two groups and was trying to somehow control the situation. He raised the red card and pointed directly at the defender who had made the foul. "But it was just a promising attacking foul, referee! He should get a yellow!" The player wearing the Gekokujou College captain''s armband tried to argue. Either way, the damage had already been done. Coach Yamamoto, who had a background in physiotherapy, was able to come onto the pitch to help his player. "Take a deep breath, Lucas. It''s going to be okay." said Mr. Yamamoto, moving Lucas''s ankle cautiously while he kept his eyes closed and hid his lips so as not to cry out in pain. Lucas didn''t want to leave the field, definitely not. So far, this had been his best game in a long, long time. Two goals... One step short of his first hat-trick in the league. If he wanted to become a striker, he needed that. And this time he deserved it. It wasn''t fair, not after giving so much of himself in the first half, not with victory so close. However, the swelling in his ankle was starting to form, and the pain showed no signs of easing. "He''ll have to leave the pitch for the game to return. Can you carry him?" asked the referee. "Lucas, can you walk on the other foot?" "Yes..." S~ea??h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. "Nishida, you''re the strongest, come here and help!" Mr. Yamamoto shouted, looking around the field. "I''m already right here, coach," said Nishida, from Lucas''s side. "Oh, you were just there. Come on, lift him up with me." Lucas hated the idea of being taken off the pitch, especially under these circumstances. But he knew he had no choice. Every movement he tried to make with his ankle brought a new wave of pain, as if needles were being driven into his skin. As he left the pitch, he looked up once more, only to see the player who had injured him slowly leaving the pitch, to the booing of the crowd. The player had been punished, but the damage had already been done. On the bench, the team was reorganizing itself. Yamamoto, always calm, knew that Lucas'' possible absence would change the dynamic of a team that was playing well. Even so, they needed to hold on to the lead for a few minutes and therefore had to adopt a more defensive formation. On the stretcher next to the bench, Lucas closed his eyes, trying to concentrate on something other than the pain. But his mind was in turmoil. "I''ll be back." The words came out of Lucas'' lips, almost as if he was trying to convince himself as much as his coach. Mr. Yamamoto, who was bent over Lucas'' swollen ankle, bandaging it with an expression of concentration, stopped for a moment and raised his head. "What?" he asked, surprised by the determination in the young man''s tone. "I''m going back to the field. Give me two minutes." Yamamoto arched an eyebrow, clearly skeptical. "Lucas, have you seen your ankle? It''s swollen like a soccer ball. You''ll barely be able to walk for a day, let alone play." "I just need two minutes, coach. I''ll recover in two minutes. I know I can." The coach was silent for a moment, weighing up the decision. He knew that Lucas was one of the team''s most promising players and had already shown what he was capable of in that game. Two goals was no mean feat. But he also knew the risks of letting an injured player back on the pitch. "Lucas..." Yamamoto started to say, but was interrupted by the boy''s serious and determined expression. The coach sighed and finished bandaging his ankle with extra care. "Okay, if in two minutes you can stand up and walk to the edge of the field normally, I''ll let you come back." Nishida, who had helped Lucas off the pitch, was already on his way back to the game when he heard the request. He turned around, a broad smile spreading across his face. "Two minutes, huh, Tanaka? I''ll pass the message on to the staff. We''ll hold the pressure for you. With ten against ten, it won''t be a problem." Lucas smiled and nodded. "Thanks... Nishida." As Yamamoto finished bandaging Lucas''s ankle and the whistle for the restart echoed through the stadium, Lucas raised his back, looked at his swollen ankle and thought: ''System, I have a healing potion and a quick recovery gel. Can these help me recover? [Yes, these healing items can help you.] ''And I can use them without necessarily putting them on visually.'' [Yes, nothing that the system displays to you is displayed to other people, animals or objects. The system is in your soul.] ''Perfect... So, system, I want to use a healing potion first and then the fast recovery gel on my ankle.'' As he gave the mental command, something strange began to happen. Before his eyes, a small bottle with a golden liquid appeared, floating in the air in front of him. No one else seemed to notice - it was invisible to the eyes of others - but to Lucas, it was as real as anything else around him. He held the floating potion. It didn''t look like anything special, but he knew that its contents were the key to his recovery. Without hesitation, he opened the lid and brought the bottle to his mouth. The taste was unexpected - smooth, almost sweet - and as soon as he swallowed, the effect was almost immediate. He felt the pain in his ankle subside, as if invisible hands were massaging the injured area, relieving the swelling and stiffness. Lucas let the empty vial disappear from his hand. The healing potion helped speed up the process, but he needed more to ensure he could return to the field without any problems. The next item appeared just as silently. This time, it was a small tube, similar to a sports ointment, with a shiny label that read "Rapid Recovery Gel". Lucas smiled to himself. It was almost funny, the way the system worked. He applied the gel directly to his ankle, rubbing it carefully over the still slightly swollen area. The effect was immediate and surreal. He felt a sensation of coolness running through his skin, as if the ice was melting and seeping deep into his muscles and ligaments, repairing everything that had been damaged. The pain, which had previously been like a relentless pin pricking his skin, began to fade quickly. The swelling reduced before his eyes, and the stiffness in his ankle practically evaporated. Lucas moved his foot, cautiously at first, testing the limits of recovery. To his surprise, the movement was normal, almost as if he had never been injured. "Lucas, it''s been two minutes. Can you do it?" Chapter 47 46 - Hat-trick "Lucas, it''s been two minutes. Can you make it?" Mr. Yamamoto asked.At that moment, Lucas raised his head and looked at Yamamoto. The coach was a man of few words, so even if Lucas chose not to use words, the coach would understand what Lucas wanted. "Yes, Coach!" replied Lucas, getting up from the stretcher. Mr. Yamamoto smiled. He, more than most, knew how much Lucas had struggled to improve to get to this moment. He was an honest boy who worked hard for the team, and the coach also knew that soccer was the center of this boy''s world. Lucas raised his head, meeting Yamamoto''s steady gaze. The coach was a man of few words, but his face, although serious, showed a hint of hope. He, more than anyone, knew how hard Lucas had fought to reach this moment. The coach also knew that, despite everything, soccer was the center of the boy''s world. As he got to his feet, Lucas felt a slight strain in his ankle, but it was nowhere near the stabbing pain of before. The combined effect of the healing items had done an excellent job. He tested the weight on his foot, first slowly, then a little more boldly, trying to bend his ankle from side to side. Nothing. No pain. No discomfort. Yamamoto needed to make sure that Lucas was really all right, that the boy wasn''t just pretending to get back on the pitch. "Take a few steps," ordered the coach. Lucas nodded and walked towards Yamamoto. His gait was firm, his weight evenly distributed between both feet. The pain seemed to have disappeared completely. After a few steps, he stopped and looked at Yamamoto. "I''m ready." The coach took a deep breath while his eyes were evaluating Lucas'' every move. He was impressed by the quick recovery, but something in the back of his mind warned him to be cautious. However, Yamamoto knew that players like Lucas, young men full of ambition, needed these decisive moments to grow. "Okay, Lucas. You come back." The coach finally gave in, but added: "But if I realize you can''t take it, I''ll take you off. No discussion." "Thanks, Coach." Lucas replied. Nishida, who had returned to the field shortly before, took a quick glance at the bench and, when he saw that Lucas was getting up, raised his fist in encouragement. When Lucas'' return was authorized, our No. 8 started walking towards the center of the pitch. As he crossed the sideline, he realized that his teammates'' eyes were on him. The stadium, small and with limited capacity, was packed. He looked around, recognizing the familiar faces among the fans, some of whom had been there from the first. The murmuring in the stands grew, and soon a wave of applause echoed, showing that the local fans, not just the ones who were enjoying Wushia High School, were backing the boy who had already shown his quality with two goals in this game. On the pitch, the opposing players looked on suspiciously. They knew Lucas was a danger, and even with his injured ankle, he still posed a threat to the defense. The referee blew the whistle, and the game resumed. Lucas looked at Nishida, who was already positioned further forward as a center-forward, and received a firm nod. They had a trusting connection, and Lucas knew that Nishida would help him get forward by pulling the ball back. As the ball rolled from foot to foot, Lucas walked around the pitch, watching, as if he were starting again, testing the limits of his body. If Gekokujou High School had been in trouble before, now they were at a complete disadvantage. With a player sent off for a childish foul and two goals behind, it was a mere formality for Wushia High School to win. The ball passed through the feet of Tsukada, then Kenji, and Lucas already knew what was coming next. He had played long enough with these teammates to recognize the little signs. Lucas ran, and the pass came, a quick ball, cutting through the middle, piercing the defense. Lucas shot up the pitch. The field opened up in front of him, and the Gekokujou High School defense was slow to react. Their defenders, disoriented by the change of pace, hesitated for a fraction of a second - just long enough for Lucas to get through. Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. With his gaze fixed on the goal, he knew that this was the moment. Nishida, who was usually the center forward, pulled two defenders into the middle of the box when he started running for the ball, and this created a lot of space on the edge of the box. The opposing goalkeeper''s vision was obstructed with so many people in front of him. By the time he realized that the ball was no longer at Lucas'' feet, it was too late. Lucas'' shot was simply beautiful. Kicked with the tip of his right foot, the ball rose and curved to the left of the goalkeeper and into the top corner. For a moment, it seemed as if time had stopped. Both the Wushia High School and Gekokujou fans were speechless. Lucas had scored the hat-trick. He stopped, panting, his eyes shining. For a moment, he was alone in that silence. It was as if the world was holding its breath, waiting to see what would come next. Sweat dripped down his forehead and his breathing was heavy, but Lucas felt an inexplicable lightness. The weight of expectations, of his past, of uncertainties... He felt that his dream was within reach for the first time. Suddenly, an explosion of sounds came from all sides. His companions ran towards him. Nishida was the first to arrive, pulling Lucas into a hug that almost knocked him over. Soon, the rest of the team joined in, shouting, celebrating with euphoria. Lucas'' smile was wide and bright. They knew what it meant to him. "You''re a monster, Tanaka!!!" shouted Nishida, laughing as he pulled him to the center of the pitch. "I knew you''d make history today!" Kuwabara exclaimed. While the Wushia High School team was celebrating, the Gekokujou team was stagnating. The defenders stared at each other in disbelief, the goalkeeper bowed his head, hands on his knees, trying to understand how they had let Lucas get past them so easily, so decisively. But what Lucas didn''t expect was the reaction of the opposing fans. For a few seconds, yes, the stadium fell into an awkward silence. The Gekokujou fans fell silent. But slowly, a solitary clap began. Then another. And soon, the entire Gekokujou section was on its feet, applauding Lucas. He stopped, confused at first, until he realized what was happening. This wasn''t just a victory for him and the team. This was recognition. The applause grew, reverberating throughout the stadium, crossing the boundaries between the fans. Lucas turned to the crowd, still a little stunned. He had never imagined that one day he would be applauded by the opposing fans. It was surreal, something you only saw on television. And then he raised his arm, acknowledging the respect he was receiving. The feeling was indescribable. Chapter 48 47 - Commentator At the end of the short second half, the referee''s whistle echoed around the stadium, sealing the victory for Wushia High School.[Wushia High School 4-1 Gekokujou High School]. Lucas'' gaze was lost on the horizon as the entire stadium cheered on the Wushia High School team this time. "We''ve really qualified for the quarter-finals..." Lucas muttered. The commentators on the online broadcast soon began to comment as the teams left the field. "My friends, what we have just witnessed was a very beautiful and memorable spectacle!" began the main narrator. "Lucas Tanaka... this young striker or midfielder, I don''t know! Does it really matter? He was brilliant! Hat-trick in a decisive match, and against a team as competitive as Gekokujou!" The commentator next to him nodded. "You can''t underestimate Lucas'' achievement today. Yes, the whole of Wushia High School seemed to be totally focused on the game, but two of the goals were pulled out of the hat by Lucas. Not only was he a decisive factor in Wushia''s victory, but he showed maturity and skill of a level that, honestly, few players of his age have demonstrated in this tournament so far. The way he read the game, took advantage of the spaces created by Nishida''s movement, and finished with such precision every chance he got... it''s the kind of thing that separates the good players from the great players." "Absolutely, Kakuda! And we mustn''t forget to mention the team spirit of Wushia High School as a whole. They fought until the last minute with focus, grit and, above all, an impressive tactical understanding." The narrator paused briefly as the cameras showed Lucas being hugged by his teammates. The camera then panned to a scene in which the coach of Wushia High School, Mr. Yamamoto, was walking up to Lucas with a smile on his face. He was always serious, but he couldn''t hide how important this victory was for him and the team. "Coach Yamamoto also deserves a lot of credit for this campaign so far," said Kakuda. "He''s shaped this team with a solid strategy, but more importantly, he''s managed to turn these youngsters into a real cohesive unit. Look at Lucas, for example. We''ve never heard of him before this tournament and he''s shining." "That''s true, Kakuda," the narrator agreed. "And speaking of Lucas, what do you think of his future? He''s a player who can go far, isn''t he?" Kakuda nodded as the cameras focused again on Lucas, who was now talking to Nishida. "I have to say here that if Tanaka keeps playing like this... Well, I wouldn''t be surprised to see professional clubs keeping an eye on him very soon. What we saw today was a player who not only has the technical talent, but also the right mentality for top-level soccer. Many youngsters with potential can''t cope with pressure, but Lucas seems to thrive on it. He has that rare instinct of players who are destined for big things. The road is still long, of course, but if he continues to develop like this until the end of the championship, I''d say he has all the tools to excel on the national stage." While the commentators discussed Lucas'' future, he left the pitch with his teammates. In the changing rooms, the atmosphere was one of pure euphoria. The Col¨¦gio Wushia players celebrated as if they had won a title. Laughter, shouts of joy, hugs - the atmosphere was one of pure victory. Lucas sat on one of the benches, still trying to process everything that had happened. Entering the changing room, coach Yamamoto came in, clapping his hands. "Boys, boys! Attention for a minute!" The entire locker room fell silent, and the players gathered around the coach. "I want you to know how proud I am of each and every one of you. Today, you showed what it means to be a team. You fought, you helped each other, you believed in each other. And Lucas..." He paused, looking directly at the young player. "You proved today that I wasn''t wrong to put you in the first team. Congratulations on your progress." "Thank you, coach... This victory represents our journey so far. Every training session, every sacrifice that everyone like me has had to make. We showed today that we can play at national level. We mustn''t forget that. Today, we''re reaping the rewards of all our hard work, and that''s how great victories are won." The players started applauding, moved by Lucas'' words. Everyone had to do a little to be at the soccer club, whether it was giving up time with their parents, or getting bad grades because they didn''t have much time to study, or going through economic hardship because they didn''t have time to work part-time, but these small sacrifices were what separated them from defeat now. While the party in the dressing room continued, outside the stadium, the media on the internet were already starting to cover the highlights of the match. On a Yourtube channel about sports news from Japan, two friends were commenting after watching the highlights of Wushia High School''s match against Gekokujou High School. S~ea??h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. "This kid has something special. He has vision, skill, and he showed that he can take responsibility for being the protagonist in decisive moments." "And the most impressive thing is that he''s still so young. If he continues to develop like this, we could be looking at one of the future stars of Japanese soccer. Still, I''m skeptical... Every year, there''s a youngster who shines like this. He could be another one. He''ll have to prove himself against Nishikawa High School. It''s not necessary to win, but if he at least plays well, it''s an indication to the other teams that he can go further." Chapter 49 48 - Item Store Later, on the same day as the match against Gekokujou College, Lucas couldn''t sleep.He was lying on the hotel bed, staring at the ceiling, trying futilely to slow down the rapid rhythm of his heart. It seemed as if he was still feeling the euphoria of the game in every muscle, as if he were still on the pitch, running, dribbling, looking for the next goal. The hotel room was plunged into darkness. The air conditioning emitted a low, constant noise which, on any other night, would have been almost hypnotic. But that early in the morning, it was insufficient. Lucas turned over in bed, trying to find a comfortable position, but the discomfort wasn''t in the sheets or the pillow. His thoughts were racing, mixed between the shouts of the fans, the sound of the ball hitting the net and the comments of his teammates. Try as he might, he couldn''t detach himself from that triumphant moment. He looked over to the next bed, where Nishida was sound asleep. Nishida was on his stomach, his face sunk into the pillow, breathing heavily and drooling into the pillow. Lucas couldn''t understand how Nishida could sleep so peacefully after a match like that and with a quarter-final to come. After a few more minutes of restlessness, Lucas decided that lying there was pointless. He threw the covers aside and got out of bed quietly, taking care not to wake Nishida. Lucas''s body was warm, as if he was still under the stadium sun, and he felt an almost childish urge to drink something cold. Perhaps a latte from the vending machine in the corridor would help cool down both body and mind. Soon, he was out of his room and into the silent corridor. The carpet on the floor muffled his footsteps, and the hotel was quiet. Lucas walked over to the vending machine, a dim blue light flashing from inside it. He inserted a few coins and pressed the button. The sound of a can falling into the compartment below was a comforting sound in the silence. Lucas took the milk, opened the can and took a long sip. He leaned his back against the wall next to the machine and took a deep breath. "Now that''s life." At this point, it was impossible to ignore the presence of an icon in the top left-hand corner of his vision. The icon''s symbol resembled an exclamation mark. "System, or rather Heavens... what were the rewards for today''s mission? [You obtained +40 Star Points.] [You obtained +1 Rare Loot Box.] [You obtained +200 Credits.] S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. "I got 40 Star Points? That''s exactly the amount I needed to upgrade my Star Level, right?" [Yes, you''re currently at Star Level 3. People might recognize you in the street by your soccer, but the chance of that happening at this point is rare]. "I understand, but at least now I''m recognized. But, C¨¦os, you can let me know when I evolve my Star Level without me asking." [Understood. [Understood. I''ll notify you whenever that happens from now on]. "Great, thanks. By the way, before I open the Loot Box, how many Credits do I have now?" [Balance: 300 Credits] "Okay, okay... Not bad. You told me that I have to reach Star Level 10 to be able to access the skill store, right? So, what can I currently do with these credits apart from accumulate them?" [You can spend them in the Item Shop. I can show you a detailed, expanded version or, if you''re in a hurry, you can ask me which item you want and I''ll promptly give you the price of the item in question]. "All right. Show me what''s in the store. Full expansion, please." [Item store opened]. Immediately, a new holographic interface appeared before his eyes. Several categories appeared in the air: Equipment, Accessories and Consumables. Well, it wasn''t much different from the items he received in the Common and Uncommon Loot Boxes, but he could buy them if he was in an urgent situation. "Show me the most affordable items. Something in the range of 300 credits or less." The screen flashed quickly, reorganizing itself. Several items appeared, each with a short description next to it. [Item: Simple Healing Potion Cost: 100 Credits Description: Heals minor injuries and restores moderate energy]. + [Item: Stamina Potion Cost: 150 Credits Description: Temporarily increases physical stamina by 30% for 1 hour]. + [Item: Advanced Bandage Kit Cost: 75 Credits Description: Used to treat more complex wounds efficiently. Useful on and off the field]. The Stamina Potion seemed to be the most tempting for his performance on the field, something that could give him an advantage just like when he played against Shinto Ishikuno. Lucas pondered whether he should buy it now as he took another sip of his milk. He knew he couldn''t rush into anything. Although the idea of spending it all right away was tempting, he had to think in the long term. "I''ll hold on to these credits for now," he muttered to himself, even though he knew C¨¦os was listening. "I want to see what''s in the Loot Box before I spend it." [You still have 300 Credits.] Lucas closed the store interface with a wave of his hand. "Okay, time to open the rare Loot Box." [Confirm opening of the rare Loot Box?] Lucas nodded and in the next instant a new animation appeared in front of him. A virtual box appeared in the air, rotating slowly. Subtle, enveloping music accompanied the box''s movement until, with a sharp sound, it opened, releasing a burst of green light. [Rare Loot Box opened.] [You have obtained Skill Fragment ''Solid Defense'']. "Skill Fragment? What''s that?" [Skill Fragments are temporary enhancements that only last for one match. Once used, the shard disappears in three hours. When you can access the skill store, you can buy the Skill Fragments you''ve already used and turn them into Permanent Skills.] Chapter 50 49 - Experience of the most experienced "Solid defense, huh? This shard can temporarily improve your defense on the field."[Yes. Although temporary, it significantly improves your defensive capacity during the game. Consider it a test. If you like the result, you can turn it into a permanent skill when you reach the required Star Level]. "Okay... I was hoping for something better, but I''ll keep it. Maybe it''ll come in handy at the right time." He closed the screen with a gesture and sighed deeply, leaning back against the wall of the corridor where he was standing. Suddenly, he heard heavy footsteps echoing down the corridor. Emerging from around the corner was Coach Yamamoto. "Lucas?" Yamamoto looked surprised to see Lucas. "Coach." Lucas straightened up, almost instinctively. Yamamoto stopped in front of him, crossing his arms. "What are you doing here? Up at this hour?" Lucas put a hand to the back of his head and smiled nervously. "I was sleep deprived, so I came to get a latte." Despite his progress as a player, whenever the coach appeared unexpectedly, the weight of authority fell on Lucas like a ton of bricks. Yamamoto looked at him with those piercing eyes. "Milk, huh?" he grumbled, with a half-smile. "You know, kid, I admire your dedication... But you need to remember that rest is just as important as training, maybe even more important when you''re in the middle of a championship." S§×ar?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Lucas nodded, knowing the lecture was coming. Yamamoto was like that - serious but concerned. He always found a way to make even the smallest transgression seem like a great life lesson. "Do you have any idea how many promising players I''ve seen destroy themselves because they thought they could do everything? Train harder, play harder, try harder... and in the end, their body couldn''t take it. Tomorrow is an important game, you know that. You need to be rested, both mentally and physically." Lucas, with his hands in his pockets, looked down at the floor: "I know, coach. I just couldn''t sleep, my head was full of stuff, you know?" "Full of stuff? What''s bothering you, Tanaka?" Yamamoto uncrossed his arms, taking a step closer. "Oh, it''s just... the championship, you know? The responsibility, the pressure... it feels like everyone is expecting something from me, and I can''t fail. If we get through tomorrow, my parents will come to watch the semi-final." "I understand. Pressure is part of it. But do you know what separates the great players from the good players? It''s not always their ability on the pitch, it''s not how much they train either. It''s the ability to deal with that pressure and do what needs to be done, even when they''re feeling exhausted." Lucas opened his mouth to reply, but Yamamoto held up his hand, cutting him off. "And that''s exactly where rest comes in, Tanaka. Do you remember the Wushia School team that went to the National Championships? Well, of course not. You were just a kid. That team I was in charge of five years ago was practically unbeatable. We had exceptional players, a talent in every position. Everyone thought it would be the team that would bring the most important title in school soccer to the school. But you know what happened?" Lucas shook his head, even though he had already heard the rumors. "They broke down before the final. All of them. The goalkeeper twisted his knee, the main defender had a muscle strain, and the star striker? He couldn''t get off the bench because he had cramps during the warm-up. Do you know why?" Lucas already knew the answer, but the coach said it anyway: "Because they didn''t rest. They thought they were invincible, ignored orders and kept pushing their bodies to the limit. The result: we lost the final by a shameful scoreline. That team had everything to win, but they failed because they didn''t understand that the body has limits. After that, frustration occupied the minds of several of them. Only two went on to become professionals, one playing in Switzerland and the other in Brazil. In small teams, nothing very relevant." The coach sighed and approached the drinks machine. "I see potential in you, Tanaka. A lot of people do now. But you need to learn to listen to your body. You need to understand that it''s not just about how hard you work, but about how much you take care of yourself." Lucas listened, but didn''t absorb. How could he think of resting with so many things going on at the same time? How could he sit still while his future as a simple office worker pushed him to do his best on the pitch every time. Yamamoto looked at him for a few more seconds, then, with a sigh, walked away. "I''m not going to stand here and pressure you. Just think about it, okay? We''ve got a big game tomorrow, and you''re going to need all your strength. Get some sleep. And please, no more milk at midnight. It can give you a stomach ache." "All right, coach. I''ll try." Yamamoto patted him lightly on the shoulder before walking away down the corridor, ironically with a can of coffee in his hand. "Yeah... Maybe I should... try to sleep." Lucas muttered to himself, walking back down the corridor towards his room. Luckily, the milk or the conversation with Mr. Yamamoto helped Lucas'' mind relax a little. The next morning, he woke up feeling very sleepy. Lucas stretched as he got out of bed and then looked at the bed next to him. Nishida was no longer there and, as expected, the sheets on the bed were completely organized. "He must have gone down to breakfast by now." Lucas muttered and yawned. "Yaaw! I think I need a coffee now too..." The game against Nishikawa College was scheduled for 11 am at Asset Minato Stadium. It was the first game of the day, so the stadium would probably be even more crowded than the day before. The electronic clock on the bedroom wall read 9:01 a.m., but for some reason, when Lucas put his first foot out of bed, he felt a strange sensation, a feeling that not everything would go as smoothly on this day as it had during the game against Gekokujou High School. Chapter 51 50 - Russian Cristiano Ronaldo & Messi On the internet, some soccer fans were commenting in the chat of the online broadcast of the Chubu Regional Championship that the only school that could beat Tahara High School, led by Hasumi Seiya, was Nishikawa High School, which Hasumi herself told Lucas that Wushia High School would probably not be able to win in the quarter-final.So, first thing in the morning, Mr. Yamamoto gathered all the players in a room at the hotel to show them the moves, tactics and players of Nishikawa High School, in order to prevent some mistakes and rehearsed moves. The light from the projector illuminated Mr. Yamamoto''s wrinkled face. All the players present were concentrating on what he was saying, because they knew that the quarter-final was not going to be a game like any other. Lucas Tanaka was sitting in the second row, with his elbows resting on his knees and leaning forward slightly. "Nishikawa High School are known for their tactical strength and the technical quality of their players, but what really makes them a challenge is their attacking duo, Luke and Klaus Ivanov." Upon hearing those names, a brief murmur spread around the room. Luke and Klaus. The Russian-Japanese twins. Two players who seemed destined for greatness. Lucas had heard of them, of course. Anyone who followed grassroots soccer knew who they were - legends in the making. "These two are unlike any opponents we''ve faced so far. I''d venture to say they''re as monstrous as Shinto Ishikuno." He signaled for Kuwabara to change the image on the screen. A video then began to play, showing Nishikawa High''s last match. "Luke, the number 10, is a natural dribbler. He has the speed and skill to get past any defender, and his ability to shoot from outside the box is a constant threat." The screen showed Luke receiving the ball in the middle of the pitch, turning quickly with an elegant touch and leaving two defenders behind as if they were training cones. He advanced at speed, swaying his body from side to side, mesmerizing his opponents before, with a touch that looked silly, firing the ball towards goal from outside the box. "And Klaus... The number 9. A natural goalscorer. He has a sense of positioning and a coolness in his finishing that we rarely see in players of this age." Yamamoto pointed at the screen again. Klaus was in the center of the box, waiting for a cross from his brother. With an impressively high leap, he headed the ball into the top corner of the goal with force. The combination of Luke and Klaus was fatal. Luke created the chances and Klaus finished them with frightening efficiency. It was almost as if they moved in perfect harmony, two bodies sharing one mind. No wonder some people called them the "Russian Cristiano Ronaldo & Messi". Nishikawa High School had built its team around them, and rightly so. They were the heart and soul of that team. "I know what you''re thinking," said Yamamoto. He paced back and forth. "If these two are so good, how can we beat them?" He stopped and looked at his players. "Double marking." said Yugga after raising his hand. "And use four players to mark two? We''ll be exposed." "Individual marking then?" Another said. Yamamoto nodded. "It could work, but that would create holes in our defense." Surprisingly, Nishida raised his hand to answer and, with a serious tone, said: "Goals. We''ll only beat them if we score goals." Kuwabara was the first to break the silence that followed Nishida''s speech. He raised an eyebrow, slowly turning towards his teammate. "Goals? Is that really what you said? Goals?" Yugga, sitting next to him, let out a muffled laugh, trying to cover it up. "I think he''s definitely just evolved into a Pok¨¦mon," he commented, squinting at Kuwabara. "He can only say one word." Toshinori, the goalkeeper, shook his head as a low laugh escaped his lips. "Goals... Goals... Goals." he repeated, imitating a robot or, perhaps, an early-stage Pok¨¦mon. "Nishida! Use Goal Attack!" Nishida, who until that moment had kept a serious expression, narrowed his eyes, clearly annoyed by the mockery. Even Lucas, who was usually more introspective, couldn''t help but smile at the joke. "You''re a bunch of idiots," muttered Nishida, crossing his arms. "I was serious. The only way we can win is if we score more goals than them. It''s that simple." "Oh, of course, it''s that simple," replied Kuwabara, sarcastically. "We just need to score more goals than the opposing team to win a match. I never thought of that." "Okay, okay, guys, enough with the pleasantries. Nishida is right on one point: we need to be offensive. But let''s also not forget that Nishikawa High School has a solid defense and only conceded one goal in their previous match. They don''t just rely on their attacking duo." As Yamamoto spoke, Lucas looked back at the screen where the Ivanov twins were still frozen in a victory pose after yet another goal. Lucas knew his limitations, but he also knew that soccer was unpredictable. It was often the small decisions on the pitch, the unexpected moments, that decided a match. What''s more, Lucas liked playing with these more skillful players, because he could copy them. Yamamoto walked to the whiteboard at the front of the room, picking up a pen. "It''s not just about scoring goals. The key is to control the midfield. If we can block the lines of passing and interrupt Luke and Klaus'' connection with the other players, we can neutralize much of the danger they offer. For this reason, I want to use a different tactical formation today, something we''ve practiced in the past." sea??h th§× ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. "In the past?" "Do you remember the friendly against Nagatura High School a month and a half ago?" Mr. Yamamoto asked as he drew a tactical formation on the board. "On that occasion, what formation did we use?" Kenji raised his right hand. "It was a 4-3-3. We had Kuwabara, Hidefumi, Jun and Yuuga in defense. In midfield, it was me, Tanaka and Tsukada. In attack, there was Nishida, Yukihiro and that other kid who left the team." "Exactly, and do you remember why we lost?" "Because our midfield was completely dominated that time." Lucas replied. "Exactly. We had three players in midfield, while they had four because they played with a pair of strikers. What does Nishikawa High School have in common with Nagatura High School?" "The attacking duo." This time, the players answered all together. Yamamoto smiled with the corner of his mouth, "Exactly. So we''re going to use a 4-4-2 formation, and our attacking duo to rival their monster attack will be a pair of players who have a lot of synergy too. I''m talking about you, Nishida and Tanaka. You''ll be responsible for scoring all the goals in our victory against Nishikawa High School." Chapter 52 51 - Breathe As Lucas and his classmates from Wushia High School entered the pre-match warm-up area, he glanced at coach Yamamoto, who was standing on the edge of the pitch and adjusting his cap while talking to someone from the tournament committee. Next, Lucas looked at Nishida, who was lightly kicking the ball with the tip of his foot to warm up goalkeeper Toshinori.Lucas stretched his arms up and his gaze wandered to the stands, and his stomach knotted up. It wasn''t just the number of spectators present - although the crowd was significant throughout the stadium - but the press. Huge cameras were positioned on the sides of the pitch, the photographers, with intimidatingly large lenses, were also preparing for the game. All this was normal, considering that the Japanese school championships were gaining more and more attention because soccer fans liked to keep an eye on the new national promises. "Breathe, Tanaka..." muttered Lucas to himself as he looked around. The press had always been present at matches, but never in such numbers. This meant that this match was not like any other. The Ivanov twins, rising stars from Nishikawa College, had a breathtaking reputation. Now, about to face them, the weight of expectation seemed doubled. Yamamoto blew his whistle, and the team began to line up for the start of the match. Lucas exchanged a glance with Nishida, who returned it with a confident smile. They had trained and worked hard to be in this place, so they felt prepared. Still, Lucas couldn''t ignore the chill that settled in his stomach, especially when his eyes finally met those of the Ivanov twins, standing on the other side of the pitch, adjusting their boots. Luke and Klaus Ivanov were almost identical. The white hair, the sharp blue eyes and the smiles as they chatted, it was as if they knew they owned the pitch. The mere fact that they were standing there, relaxed, exchanging a word or two, showed that, for them, this was just another match. Another challenge to be overcome. Luke, the taller of the two, took a quick glance in Luke''s direction and smiled. That smile bothered him, as if Luke knew something he didn''t. He swallowed. He swallowed, but also allowed himself to smile. ''That kid is going to be shocked when I copy his skill.'' "What''s up, Lucas?" Nishida asked. "Yes. I''m fine," Lucas replied, standing up and smiling. "That''s it. Let''s go. Let''s put on a show for the press," said Nishida with a mischievous grin. "Are they here to see the twins? They''ll be talking about our duo." "Let''s do it!" replied Lucas. Lucas''s hands were slightly sweaty, his feet a little heavy. But he had a system and he felt he could rely on it to win. Suddenly, the referee''s whistle blew, calling the teams to begin their performance. After forming two lines and greeting each other, each team went to one side of the pitch. This time, Wushia College would start on the right. This was the first time they had started on this side, but in the end it didn''t make much difference. Soon, the referee blew the whistle and the game began. Unlike the other games, this one surprisingly seemed to be more evenly paced, perhaps because both teams weren''t as frazzled having played long games the day before, perhaps because they were both respecting each other. So the first few minutes were as controlled as ever. The teams tested each other, trying to find their gaps and analyze each other''s movements. Lucas was positioned in front of the midfield, pressing at times and also a little further back to be able to receive passes from midfield and connect them with Kenji. And then one hour it happened. Kenji, with a subtle touch, sent the ball towards Lucas, who took it with his chest and started running. Kuwabara suddenly pulled up on the right flank and advanced quickly, becoming a more plausible passing option because Nishida was marked. However, Nishida was hungry for a goal, he had an aura. "Tanaka!" shouted Nishida. Lucas could only look at Nishida. He waited for the No. 9 striker to advance a little further and made a pass behind the back of one of the Nishikawa College defenders. Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Nishida received the ball and prepared to shoot, but out of nowhere Klaus Ivanov threw his body at Nishida, pivoted and kicked the ball away. ''What is this guy doing here in defense?! He''s their main striker! Luckily, or unluckily, a player from Nishikawa College managed to stop Klaus'' clearance kick from going wide and started to mount a counter-attack. Kenji clicked his tongue and started running to help out in defense Luke Ivanov received the ball from his brother and started to advance. This was the moment everyone had been dreading. The twins'' synchronicity was frightening, because soon Klaus was on the attack to receive. He ran past Kenji as if he were a superhero. Toshinori, the goalkeeper, was shouting frantic orders to the defense. "Close the gaps! Don''t let them get forward!" But it was no use. The twins were jockeying for position and seemed to be in a completely different league. When the ball was again with Luke, who was now face to face with Kuwabara. He made a quick feint, and before anyone could react, Klaus was already in position to receive the pass. The ball crossed a few meters of the pitch and, in a split second, Klaus shot towards goal. The sound of the ball hitting Toshinori''s gloves echoed through the stadium, followed by a collective gasp from the crowd. He had saved it. Lucas let out a sigh of relief, but not for long. The Ivanov twins were not the type to give up easily. The game continued to be intense, with Nishikawa College pressing relentlessly. The clock was ticking, and it wasn''t long before 20 minutes had passed, but for Lucas, every second seemed like an eternity. He wanted to understand what kind of skills the Ivanovs had so that he could choose which one to copy, but the strange thing was that they didn''t have one skill that really stood out from the rest. They weren''t great at handling the ball, dribbling, shooting or anything like that. In the end, they just seemed to be much better physically and that was enough. In a moment of distraction for Hidefumi, who was following Luke closely, a seemingly ordinary move would change the course of the match. Chapter 53 52 - Sync Hidefumi''s role as Wushia College''s main defender was to keep an eye on the ball at all times and coordinate the defense, deciding whether or not they should advance the line of scrimmage. In addition, his secondary role in this game was to keep a close eye on Luke Ivanov''s movements. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.However, there was something about the Ivanovs that unsettled even the most experienced players. Luke, for most of the time, wasn''t even trying to dribble; his relaxed body and almost disinterested eyes made it look like he was just waiting. And then it happened. With a simple sideways touch, Luke passed the ball to Klaus without even looking. It looked like a harmless move, but the whole pitch seemed to tilt at that moment. The ball moved as if it had a life of its own, flowing from Luke''s feet to Klaus'', and Hidefumi hesitated for a fraction of a second, just long enough for the twins'' almost perfect synchrony to take over. Luke watched the scene from a distance, his heart racing. He tried to calculate, to process how the Ivanovs managed to move so quickly and so precisely. No obvious skill, no mystical power, just a harmony between the two that made the game look like a ballet, elegant and lethal. "Go on, Hidefumi, don''t let him through!" shouted Kenji. But it was too late. Klaus was already ahead. In the blink of an eye, he dribbled past Yuuga and was face to face with Toshinori. The Wushia goalkeeper prepared himself, positioning himself with his knees bent and his arms ready to react to the shot that seemed inevitable. ''I''m ready. I can do it... I''ll defend again.'' Toshinori thought, feeling sweat trickle down his temples. Klaus lifted his leg and, instead of a direct kick, made a soft touch to Luke, who came running like a bullet from the side. Their plan was clear: confuse the defense, disorganize the lines, until it was impossible to predict their next move. Luke received the ball from Klaus and, without hesitation, shot low and hard, aiming for the left corner of the goal. Toshinori stretched as far as he could and his fingers grazed the ball, but it went into the net. The muffled sound of the ball hitting the net was followed by an explosion of shouts from the fans in favor of Nishikawa College. The Ivanov twins greeted each other with a quick high five, as if it was the most natural thing in the world. "Damn!" Toshinori punched the ground angrily. Lucas looked at Nishida, who stood with his hands on his hips and his gaze fixed on his own goal. "Let''s not keep our heads down! We still have time!" shouted coach Yamamoto from the sideline, clapping his hands as if he could energize the team with his own willpower. They were still in the first half, and a goal wasn''t the end. But the psychological impact of seeing the Ivanovs dominate the field so easily was hard to ignore. Lucas knew that if they didn''t find a way to contain the twins, the match could quickly spiral out of control. "What do you think, Lucas?" Nishida asked, approaching him as they walked back to the halfway line to restart the game. "They''re good, but they''re not unbeatable. What can we do?" Lucas looked at Nishida and then at the twins. He clenched his fists, because this time he didn''t have the answers. Enjoy new chapters from empire "They play in sync, as if they were one. But... what if we break that synchrony? Force them to act individually?" Nishida asked. Luca raised an eyebrow, puzzled. "What do you mean?" "If we focus on one of them, just one, the other won''t be able to maintain the same fluidity. They depend on each other for those quick moves. If we force one of them to play alone, maybe we''ll find a way through." Lucas smiled. "That''s an idea. But which one do we target?" Nishida hesitated, looking at the two of them. Luke was the main striker, the playmaker, but Klaus had shown surprising defensive ability. Both were dangerous in different ways. "What about Klaus?" asked Luke. "He drops back to help defend, but when he gets forward, he''s more predictable than Luke. If we can isolate him, we can destabilize the pair." Nishida nodded, patting Lucas on the shoulder. "Okay, we''ll do that. But I''ll need you up front, ready to receive the pass. If we manage to steal the ball, you''ll be the one to score, because they''ll be watching me very closely. I can see that." Soon, the game resumed and Wushia College seemed more focused. Kuwabara and Kenji moved closer to Klaus, following Lucas'' plan. They pressed the striker whenever he touched the ball, forcing him to make quicker and consequently riskier passes. Klaus, surprisingly, showed no discomfort with the extra pressure. It was as if it came naturally. But, as Lucas predicted, the twins'' synchrony began to break down. Without the time to react in perfect harmony, the passes were no longer as precise, and Luke began to move forward more to help his brother, which limited his role in defense. Even so, the first big chance for Wushia College came in the 38th minute. Kenji received the ball, passed it to Tsukada and then the ball fell to Yukihiro on the left wing. Yukihiro ran on. The sound of his feet stomping on the grass, and the roar of the crowd as he advanced, was heartening for the boy who was coming back from a mid-season injury. His peripheral vision caught Nishida running down the middle between the defenders, already prepared for the cross. Yukihiro had to be precise. He couldn''t waste that opportunity. He slowed down for a moment, lifted his left foot and, with the inside of it, launched the cross. Nishida jumped with all his might, the ball seemed destined for his head, but at the last moment it sailed over him. He fell back to the ground, turning his body to follow the movement of the ball. Behind him, Lucas was ready, his eyes fixed on the ball, his body stretched in the air, as if that jump was his only mission. He rose higher than anyone expected, using of course. The Nishikawa College defenders, taken by surprise, tried to react, but it was too late. The ball met Lucas'' forehead and produced a satisfying sound, the kind of sound that any footballer would recognize as a good header. "GOOOOAAL!" Chapter 54 53 - Years Ago The roar of the fans exploded through the stands, as if thunder had ripped through the sky.When Lucas'' feet finally touched the turf again, he ran and slid on his knees across the grass. The screams of the fans reverberated in his ears. Lucas could barely breathe, but a smile appeared on his face, wide and genuine. The plan had worked. Nishida was the first to reach him, hugging him tightly and almost knocking him back to the ground. "You did it, Lucas! You did it again!" He shouted, laughing with excitement. Kenji, Tsukada and several other players went to celebrate with him. But while Wushia College celebrated the goal that tied the game, Klaus and Luke were static. The sound of cheers and shouts from the crowd echoed around them, but it seemed distant, muffled. Klaus, his hair wet with sweat falling over his eyes, felt a pang of fear rise in his chest. He cast a furtive glance at Luke, who still kept his head down and his jaw clenched in frustration. Klaus knew what was going through his brother''s head. They were failing to be the best... Luke clenched his fists at his sides, trembling slightly. His gaze was distant, lost. He knew they couldn''t lose. They couldn''t afford to fail. The image of his father came to mind with the clarity of a recurring nightmare. * Years ago, the twins were still small, simple boys playing soccer in the streets of a small town south of Moscow called Yasenevo. Although the sun was shining that day, their lives were shrouded in shadows. Their father, Sergei Kazuki, was a man of Russian-Japanese origin, a stern, rigid and brutal man. Rumors in the neighborhood said that Sergei was a retired military man who had fallen on hard times, but no one really knew how much truth there was to it. What everyone did know, however, was the fear he instilled in his own family. With snow-white hair and an expression that never softened, Sergei was the monster in the closet that the twins Klaus and Luke feared. He didn''t see his children as children, but as unfinished projects, promises of greatness that had to be forcibly molded. He demanded perfection - he couldn''t accept failure. Klaus vividly remembered an evening when he and Luke had returned home after playing a friendly match in a city field. Normally, the twins'' mother would take them to the championship, but she had a black eye and couldn''t leave the house, so Sergei took them. During the game, he didn''t cheer or congratulate them on their victory, but left everything to be said when they got home. "You should have scored more goals!" Sergei had said to Klaus. Klaus, only eight at the time, had cried quietly, but Sergei showed no mercy. He believed that feelings were weaknesses. "A mediocre man has no place in this world." he continued, before raising his heavy hand and slapping the boys, one at a time. "If you want to make me proud, you need to be stronger." The twins'' mother, Ayame, was always on the sidelines, watching in silence. She rarely spoke, never interfered. But her eyes, red from suppressed crying, said it all. She was a broken woman, trapped in an abusive marriage, with no way out. For Klaus and Luke, the only way to free their mother from Sergei''s control was to become the best at soccer, to get a career that would give them the means to get her away from that life. Their mother had no other option - she was financially dependent on Sergei because she had been married to him from a very young age, and Sergei knew this, which made his cruelty all the more ruthless. Soccer, for the twins, had always been more than a sport. It was the only thing that connected them to the hope of a better life, the possibility of escaping their father''s shadow. Klaus played with the strength of someone who had something to prove, while Luke, always the quieter of the two, carried an even greater burden: he felt that the protection of his brother and mother depended on him. * Back in the field, Luke raised his head slowly. He met Klaus'' eyes. The silence between them was charged with memories and promises. Klaus approached Luke and said, "We can''t fail." It was rare for Klaus to show vulnerability, but there, in that instant, the weight of expectations and the fear of failure was something logical. Luke took a deep breath, closing his eyes for a moment. When he opened them again, the familiar fire of determination had returned. Enjoy new stories from empire "We won''t fail." His voice was low, almost inaudible, but full of conviction. On the other side of the field, Kenji watched the pair carefully. He knew that the plan to isolate them was working, but something in their countenances made him uneasy. They weren''t just good players, they were also hard-working, which explained why the No9 always came back to score. "They won''t give up easily." Kenji muttered, already anticipating that this was going to be a much tougher game than the previous ones had been. The game restarted with the referee''s whistle, and this time the twins didn''t hesitate. Klaus dropped back to pick up the ball, while Luke floated between the opposing lines, waiting for the right moment to cut in like a blade. The ball came in low, passing through three players with quick, precise interchanges. The passes were agile, and the ball seemed glued to Luke''s feet as he advanced. Sear?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. They had adapted to the marking that isolated them. However, Wushia had evolved over the course of the championship too. Since the preliminary round, the team had faced tough opponents, growing stronger with each victory. It was no longer the same group of players that had started the competition. The togetherness, the pace, the confidence - all of it had grown together. When Luke passed the ball to Klaus with a soft touch, Kenji read the play precisely. He stepped forward, anticipating the next move, and blocked the pass with an outstretched leg. Kenji, with the ball at his feet, saw the field open up in front of him like a blank canvas, and Tsukada was free on his right, with Nishida on the right edge and Yukihiro further left, ready to run. "Now go!" thought Kenji and passed the ball to Tsukada, but before Tsukada could turn with the ball in hand, Luke appeared out of nowhere, like a sudden shadow, stretching out his leg and stopping the movement. Chapter 55 54 - Lack of focus is a Trap Luke appeared out of nowhere, like a speeding shadow, blocking Tsukada''s spin with an outstretched leg.Tsukada stumbled, lost his balance, and before he could process what had happened, he fell to the ground. The ball, which should have been in his grasp, was deflected by Luke''s pressure and bounced a few meters in front of him as the referee blew his whistle, signaling a fair but hard-fought contest. The impact with the ground was more than physical. Tsukada felt an invisible weight descend on his shoulders as he remained slumped for a few seconds, the euphoric shouts of the crowd sounding like a distant hum. He heard Kenji shouting his name, perhaps asking him to get up quickly, but everything seemed distant, as if time had slowed down around him. Tsukada blinked, trying to reorganize his thoughts. There was a nagging feeling growing in his chest - a bitter familiarity that he always tried to suppress. As skilled a player as he was, he felt out of place on the pitch. Still lying on the ground, Tsukada remembered when he was just a boy, the pride of his school. From an early age, he had stood out in every team he played for. Soccer came naturally to him. At regional tournaments, his name danced on the lips of people and coaches like that of a prodigy. He was the kind of player that, even at a young age, scouts watched closely. At his old school, Tsukada was revered by his classmates and teachers because he could see plays that others couldn''t. Deep down, he knew he was different. Deep down, he knew he was different. He knew that while other boys played for fun or for a place in the first team, he played to dominate. When his parents realized their son''s precocious talent, they put all their hopes and resources into his future in sport. There was no plan B. It was then that he heard about the chance to join Nishikawa High School , one of the most renowned schools in Japan for developing athletes. It was a golden opportunity, and he was determined to get a scholarship. The selection process was rigorous, with physical and technical tests that left even the most talented players exhausted. But Tsukada felt he was ready for the challenge. It was just a question of impressing the coaching staff. However, when the day of the test arrived, something unexpected happened. That day, Tsukada wasn''t just playing against other talented boys like himself, he had to compete against a foreigner with an unusual playing style: Luke Kazuki. The name wasn''t familiar to him at the time, but watching him play, Tsukada realized that Luke was different from everyone else. He was clever, shot well, led the team, passed well and even dribbled. The look in Luke''s eyes on the pitch was of someone carrying a weight that Tsukada could never understand. In the test, while Tsukada shone with his dribbling and precise passing, Luke emerged as a born leader, dominating the midfield, organizing plays and breaking down opponents. It seemed that Luke was everywhere on the pitch. In the end, when the names of those chosen were announced, Tsukada waited anxiously, but the name that came out of the mouth of the man with the clipboard was that of Luke Kazuki for the number 10 spot. The defeat that day was a deep blow. Tsukada, used to being the best on the pitch, was left on the sidelines. He didn''t get the scholarship he wanted, and with that, the doors of Nishikawa High School closed to him. He remembered returning home that day, the disappointed look on his parents'' faces weighing on him like a cloud. They said nothing. From then on, Tsukada swore to himself that he would find a way to make amends. And there he was, years later, facing Luke once again. "Get up, Tsukada!" Kenji finally broke through the fog of thoughts that enveloped him. Still dazed, Tsukada got up from the floor, rubbing his face with the sleeve of his shirt to wipe away the sweat and frustration. "Damn..." Tsukada muttered to himself. Kenji ran over to him. "Are you all right?" Tsukada nodded, forcing a smile that didn''t reach his eyes. "I am... it just distracted me for a second." Kenji looked at him skeptically, but didn''t insist. Time was running out, and there was no room for hesitation. They needed to react quickly. The game was still wide open, and Wushia needed all his players at their peak. "Hold your head up, Tsukada," said Lucas Tanaka as he approached. "It''s our free-kick. We need to take advantage of it." Lucas came closer and noticed something different in Tsukada''s distant gaze. "Tsukada, you have a past with Luke, don''t you?" Lucas whispered. Tsukada turned to him, slightly surprised by the question. "How do you know?" "Anyone could see the look you threw at him..." "It''s just that..." "I don''t care what happened between you. That''s in the past. What matters now is what you do from now on." Tsukada remained silent. He didn''t have an answer to that. He was stuck in that rivalry, that resentment. Ever since the day he had lost his place to Luke, he had felt like he was trying to chase something he would never achieve. Even there, at that moment, in the heat of the game, Luke''s shadow seemed larger, denser. sea??h th§× n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Luke looked at the referee, who authorized the free-kick. "Look, we don''t have much time, but I want to give you a mission. An important mission." Tsukada, who had already started looking at the ground again, looked up. "Mission?" "I want you to mark Luke. Individually. When he passes midfield, you stay on him. No space. No matter how much he tries to lose you, you don''t leave his side." "But why me? You saw what he did to me just now. He''s taller, faster, stronger..." Lucas tilted his head to the side, as if pondering for a moment before answering. "You have something to prove, don''t you? If you keep playing with that doubt, he''ll beat you before you even step on the pitch. But if you focus on just one thing, if you turn this rivalry into fire, you''ll stand out more. Remember, there are a lot of scouts here today. They are the ones who will define our future." Chapter 56 55 - Number 9 Lucas''s comment sounded to Tsukada like a gentler rebuke, as if Lucas was telling Tsukada to try not to ruin everything. Well, Tsukada knew Lucas was right. He looked at Lucas, who was already preparing to take the free-kick, and Kenji was positioned a little further forward, giving him the option of a pass, but he was marked."Got it. I''ll mark Luke." Tsukada said as he pulled back a few passes. Luke gave a smile, something between gratitude and a vote of confidence. "Whoever can, go forward! Let''s use this foul to dominate more of their field!" Lucas shouted, which prompted Nishida to move a little closer to the box, and so the Nishikawa High School players did Lucas gently placed the ball on the pitch and looked ahead to see who was best positioned. The sun, which had previously been shrouded in clouds, was now peeking out, casting an intense glow over the pitch. After glancing to his left, he flicked the ball with his right leg and it landed on the left edge at Yukihiro''s feet. Immediately, the right-back pressed Yukihiro, but Yukihiro dribbled past him with a body movement, giving the impression that he was going to cut inside and instead went the other way. Yukihiro was able to drive the ball a little further before finally crossing. ''Please, someone touch this ball before the goalkeeper!'' Yukihiro mentally cheered. Nishikawa''s defenders, surprised by the change of target, took a second to react. A second that would prove costly. Nishida, in the center of the box, leapt with all the strength his body could muster, and the goalkeeper read the play too late, rushing forward desperately to intercept the ball in mid-air. Luckily, Nishida was very well positioned and had the momentum of a basketball player, so he managed to get a clean, strong header, directing the ball into the bottom right corner of the goal. Everyone''s eyes followed the path of the ball as if they were caught in a spell. Toshinori threw himself at the ball with his fingertips outstretched in a final attempt to deflect the shot. Then the metallic sound of the ball hitting the crossbar echoed throughout the stadium. *Plim! The crowd let out a roar of exasperation. However, the ball came back with force, bouncing in the opposite direction, but still inside the box, floating as if in slow motion. At this point, Hidefumi, who had run into the area when Yukihiro managed to advance, was virtually unmarked inside the penalty area, possibly because he wasn''t used to scoring goals and his opponent knew it, but the opportunity fell to him. Hidefumi was usually a lazy and uncommitted lad, but it was impossible for someone not to want to take advantage of an opportunity like this. With an agile movement for a defender, he threw himself into a volley, catching the ball perfectly in the air. The sound of the shot was dry and strong, and this time the ball met no resistance. The ball flew into the net, with the Nishikawa High School goalkeeper unable to do anything but watch helplessly. Hidefumi raised his arms, as if even he couldn''t believe what had just happened. His smile was wide, almost incredulous, as his teammates ran towards him. "WHAT A GOAL, EVERYONE! An absolutely fantastic moment! Hidefumi, the defender who hardly ever appears in attack, scored a volley that will go down in the history books of this tournament!" the commentator on the tournament''s main broadcast shouted into the microphone. "Not only was it an unexpected move, but the accuracy of the shot was unparalleled. He''s doing really well at the back and now he''s scored! It''s the essence of great defenders to score goals with their heads, but what about volleys?! The scouts are going to keep an eye on this boy!" Next to the commentator, his colleague in the booth, a specialist in tactical analysis, couldn''t hide her own surprise. S~ea??h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. "Incredible! Forget the fact that he''s not a natural striker. The way Hidefumi managed to adjust his body to catch the ball in the air was a skill of the highest level. If you told me he was a No9, I''d believe you! His positioning was well-timed, and he read the shot before anyone else. The Nishikawa High School goalkeeper had no chance." In the midst of all the euphoria, the official broadcast camera zoomed in on the small Wushia High School crowd. There were no matching shirts or anything from the team, they were all dressed casually, but many had identified with this underdog team since the beginning of the championship. On the pitch, Hidefumi was still surrounded by his teammates, all patting him on the back, congratulating him on the moment. Lucas, in particular, gave Hidefumi a friendly push in the chest and smiled. "You had that saved, huh?" Lucas said, panting, his eyes shining with pride. "I just..." Hidefumi replied, still out of breath "...closed my eyes and kicked. Pure luck." The euphoria in the stadium began to subside as the Nishikawa High School team got organized again to restart the game. The opposing players looked shaken, exchanging looks of frustration. The goalkeeper, still kneeling by the post, shook his head in disbelief, visibly annoyed at having been surprised by a move that no one saw coming. From above, the main commentator for the official broadcast was visibly excited, ready to take a break from the excitement. "And while we''re on the subject of bursts of energy on the pitch, do you know where else you can find a burst like that? Yes, my friends, in the new ''Power Pulse'' energy drinks! With a combination of caffeine, taurine and unbeatable flavor, ''Power Pulse'' is the fuel you need to keep up the pace in any situation!" he said, as the camera focused on a bottle of the drink placed strategically on the commentary table. "And now, with this dose of energy, let''s get back to the game because there''s a lot of ball to play!" When the match resumed, Nishikawa High School, once confident, now seemed affected by the unexpected goal. The players'' expressions were grim, their eyes fixed on the pitch like predators waiting for the moment to strike. They knew they had to react, and quickly. "Hey, let''s get organized! We can''t let them pressure us like this!" shouted one of the twins from Nishikawa High School, trying to incite his teammates. It was noticeable that, although confidence had been shaken, there was still a ferocity in the opponents, as if they were ready to launch a counter-attack at any moment. The ball started rolling again, and Lucas positioned himself in the middle of the pitch to intercept any attempt by his opponents to regain control. Tsukada, further back, kept the defensive line compact, aware that the game could turn at any moment. It was a dangerous game, and everyone knew it. [Nishikawa High School 1-2 Wushia High School] [39''] Chapter 57 56 - Exhausted The second half began with a heavy air, as if everyone knew that the next few minutes would be definitive.The Wushia College team had organized itself again, with Lucas Tanaka playing closer to midfield to use his strength to create plays and also help defend, while Nishida and Yukihiro were further forward. As the first few minutes went by, his eyes kept up with the pace of the game, but his body began to feel the weight of tiredness, even though he had just come back from the break. The scoreboard showed a slender lead: [Nishikawa College 1 - 2 Wushia College]. The clock was already ticking 12 minutes. There were just over 30 minutes left. Half an hour. They only needed to hold this scoreline for half an hour to qualify for the semi-final. Lucas, in particular, wanted this because her family was going to Nagoya to watch them in the semi-final. So when Lucas intercepted a ball, he felt the urge to go forward and score another goal to make them more comfortable. Sweat poured down his face and his lungs burned, but he knew he couldn''t fail. Not now. However, when he looked sideways, he realized that the team wasn''t advancing with him. Kenji was running, but much slower than usual. Hidefumi, the unexpected hero of the previous goal, was at the back, breathing heavily with his hands on his hips and trying to catch his breath. Tsukada was running, but he was moving his legs with worrying slowness. The rest of the team looked equally exhausted. On the other hand, Nishikawa College was fast, alert, determined to turn the corner and win. "Lucas!" Nishida shouted. Nishida was further forward, trying to position himself to receive the pass, but even he, who was normally a tireless machine, seemed to be succumbing to the weight of fatigue. Lucas had no choice. He had to act, and quickly. Nishida was pushing himself, running as fast as he could. Lucas tapped the ball, calculating the trajectory with precision. The ball slid across the grass towards Nishida. For a moment, Lucas felt that the move had worked, that they could keep possession and perhaps, with luck, find a way through on goal. But Nishikawa was alert. Before the ball reached Nishida, an opposing defender, faster and with much more energy, intercepted the ball with ease, starting a counter-attack. The pitch, which seconds before had looked promising, suddenly turned into a minefield. Lucas saw Nishikawa''s team advancing, like predators who had sniffed out their prey. He knew what that meant. One mistake, one slip-up, and the slender lead that Wushia College had fought so hard to maintain would disappear. At the side of the pitch, coach Yamamoto was watching the scene with watchful eyes. He was obviously aware of the extreme fatigue that had settled over his team. He knew that every player on the pitch was at their limit. But he also knew that he didn''t have many options. The bench was thin, with few substitutes capable of sustaining the insane pace that the match demanded. The commentators, also attentive, began to question the old coach''s decisions. "Yes, viewers, Wushia College is exhausted. They have talent, no doubt about it, we saw that in the first half, but Nishikawa College''s energy seems to be swallowing them alive now." "Doesn''t Coach Yamamoto see that? Why hasn''t he made any substitutions yet?" "The problem is that he probably knows that the best are on the pitch now. The options on the bench don''t have the same capacity to handle that pressure. He hasn''t changed the team much since the start of the championship... Substituting and putting someone in who isn''t in a good rhythm could end up making the situation worse." "That''s true, but if he doesn''t do anything, Wushia College will be swallowed up more and more. S§×arch* The n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. For his part, Lucas had the same reading of the situation as the commentators. He knew, as well as Yamamoto, that the players on the pitch were the best they had. There were no alternatives. It was all or nothing. They had to hold out until the end, even if their bodies were crying out for rest. The pressure was overwhelming, but giving up was not an option. As Nishikawa College''s counter-attack advanced, Lucas ran desperately to get back on defense. His legs were heavy as lead, but he forced every step. The opposing team launched a powerful shot, but Hidefumi, with a Herculean effort, managed to block it, deflecting the ball away. It was a temporary relief. The game was relentless. Collective exhaustion was an invisible enemy, eating away at the mental and physical stamina of all the Wushia College players on the pitch. Lucas needed to do something. He needed a brilliant move, something to give the team a breather. But the genius move came from Luke. Luke, the prodigy from Nishikawa, was also famous for his lethal accuracy with long-range shots. The young striker had just intercepted a misplaced pass and was setting up his leg for the shot. Luke''s arm swung out, his left foot subtly settling on the turf before he drove his shot into the opposite corner. The ball left his boot with disconcerting effect, curving slightly in the air in a movement that would fool any ordinary goalkeeper. Enjoy exclusive content from empire But not Toshinori. The goalkeeper from Wushia College, stoic to the limit, deflected the ball outwards with his fingertips. The impact of the save made a muffled sound, like distant thunder. The ball went out for a corner, and the Nishikawa players let out sighs of frustration. Lucas, on the other hand, felt something different. As soon as the ball was kicked away, the familiar cold buzz ran down his spine. [The player Luke Ivanov has just demonstrated the Skill , would you like to check the copy conditions for this skill?] Luke''s heart raced. He knew what was coming next. The condition for activating the was always a challenge. The system didn''t make you strong without effort; it always demanded something in return. [Skill Copy Conditions : Make Luke and Klaus fight to the point where they no longer want to pass the ball to each other]. Chapter 58 57 - Magic Curve Effect [Skill Copy Conditions : Make Luke and Klaus fight to the point that they no longer want to pass the ball to each other].It was as if the system was challenging him to do the impossible. Considering that Luke and Klaus were twins and playing well, creating a rift between them seemed unrealistic, almost ridiculous. Their gazes met and, without words, they knew what to do. Destroying them from the inside, separating them mentally, would be a Herculean task. Yet that was exactly what he needed to do. Lucas clenched his fists, feeling sweat trickle down his palms. The sticky feeling bothered him, but he didn''t have time to think about it. The score was still 2-1 in his team''s favor, but the fatigue of the Wushia College players was evident. He himself could barely breathe even though he had already used up a Rapid Recovery Elixir. He looked up at the sky. The sun was shining high, relentlessly, making the heat on the pitch almost unbearable. "Damn sun..." Lucas muttered, drying his face with his shirt. On the other side, the Nishikawa College team looked like a hungry beast, with Luke and Klaus leading the way. Their energy was in stark contrast to the state of Luke and his teammates. Not surprisingly, they didn''t have to play for several days in a row like Wushia College did this past week. They started in the playoffs. Suddenly, the system flashed in his peripheral vision, bringing up a new set of information: [Hint: Emotional sabotage. Psychological attack could force a break-up between Luke and Klaus. Create an internal rivalry between the two to create discord]. "Internal rivalry?" Luke grumbled to C¨¦os as he ran. "They seem to work together perfectly." sea??h th§× nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. [Brothers can have fights too]. "I know, I have a younger sister. The problem is that fights only happen when there''s no common goal, and they definitely have one." "Lucas!" Nishida shouted again, trying to snap him out of his state of contemplation. Lucas turned around and realized the impending counterattack. Klaus was already approaching the area at speed. He wasn''t as technical, but, unlike his brother, he had extraordinary strength and was therefore a threat from outside the area. His cold, focused eyes were looking for the perfect moment to shoot. Without thinking, Lucas ran towards Klaus, even though his legs were as heavy as lead. Klaus'' posture was one of pure confidence, as if he knew he had everything under control. He dribbled past Kenji with ease, using his superior speed, and was about to enter the goal area. Toshinori, the goalkeeper, was watching, ready to save. But then a treacherous detail appeared. The bright sun was directly over the defense area, reflecting hard against Toshinori''s gaze. He blinked, trying to keep his focus, but for a moment the sun was so strong that it was impossible to see more than a few feet ahead even with his eyes crossed. And Klaus noticed. Seizing the opportunity, Klaus positioned his body and launched a kick. Lucas shouted, trying to alert Toshinori, but the distance between them was too great, and the shout was lost in the noise of the field. The shot was hit with disorienting force, and the ball traveled like a rocket towards the left corner of the goal. Toshinori could only react too late. His fingers touched the air, away from the ball, and the sound of the net rattling was immediately followed by the roar of the Nishikawa High School crowd. Enjoy more content from empire "Damn..." Toshinori muttered, watching the ball bounce on the grass inside the goal. He had made impressive saves all game, but at that moment, he had been defeated by the most treacherous enemy: the environment itself. The scoreboard now read [Nishikawa College 2-2 Wushia College]. The draw put pressure on Lucas''s team, who were already exhausted. They needed something miraculous to hold on to the match or, better still, to try to get back into the game. Lucas wiped the sweat running down his forehead. Nishida approached, tapping Lucas hard on the shoulder, almost as if he wanted to transfer some of his energy to him. "Let''s not let it go to waste, understand? There''s still time!" Nishida''s eyes were burning with excitement and he didn''t even blink. Lucas nodded, even though his muscles were crying out for rest. "Come on, Wushia!" Kenji shouted from the other end of the pitch, trying to cheer up his teammates. He had just been dribbled by Klaus, and his pride was still burning. "We need to be more focused!" While waiting for the game to restart, Lucas looked at Nishida, who was standing next to him, carefully adjusting his boots. The two had built up a healthy rivalry since childhood, fueled by an incessant desire to outdo each other on the pitch. Nishida was stronger, faster and a finisher. Lucas, on the other hand, had his positional intelligence and ability to read the game. They needed to keep using this combination. The referee blew the whistle, and the game resumed. Nishikawa College, buoyed by the draw, continued to press, with Luke running the midfield. Nishida and Lucas knew that the best defense was now attack. They couldn''t let the opposing team dominate the pace of the game. "Lucas, let''s focus on quick counter-attacks using Yukihiro as well," suggested Nishida, looking at the empty space ahead. "If we can catch them by surprise, we could score before the end!" Lucas agreed. They needed something unexpected, a quick move that would break their opponents'' rhythm. Every second was precious. For the next few minutes, the game continued at a relentless intensity. Every pass, every run was made with the feeling that the next move could be decisive. When Nishikawa tried a new attack, Lucas saw the opportunity. He intercepted Luke''s pass, his leg stretching out at the last moment to touch the ball before it reached its destination. "Now!" Luke shouted, throwing the ball to Nishida, who shot down the right side of the pitch. Nishida received the pass masterfully, running as if he were on the run, while the opposing players tried to catch up with him. Lucas followed close behind, running with everything he had, his legs heavy as stone, but his heart racing with a single thought: the chance of victory. As they approached the opponent''s penalty area, Lucas and Nishida exchanged glances. They knew what to do. Wordlessly, Lucas accelerated down the left, while Nishida drew his marker into the center. The movement was coordinated, almost instinctive. They had practiced it many times, but there, in the heat of the match, it seemed to be more a question of heart than technique. Nishida made the pass at exactly the right moment, just as they had practiced that day before the championship. Surprisingly, the ball came in clean, low, sliding across the pitch. Lucas was free. He adjusted his body and took the shot. Nishikawa''s goalkeeper, alert, came out of his goal to close the angle. The shot was strong, but not strong enough. Lucas didn''t have any exceptional finishing skills apart from the first-time shot he copied from Kenji. The opposing goalkeeper managed to stretch out his right arm and, with his fingertips, deflected the ball out of the area. "Damn!" Lucas roared. "Nice try! Let''s not give up!" shouted Nishida. They returned to their positions, trying to hold off Nishikawa College''s last attacks. The clock was ticking. The score was still 2-2, and both teams were now on the verge of exhaustion. Then, when no one expected it, the final whistle came. Regular time and extra time had passed and the players from both teams hadn''t even seen it because they were anxiously searching for the goal. Lucas took a deep breath with his hands on his hips as he tried to pull himself together. Nishida approached, tapping his friend on the shoulder once more. "It''s extra time now, isn''t it?" Nishida said with a half-smile, clearly as tired as Lucas. "Yeah, I think if we make more plays like that last one, we can score. But let''s try to reverse the roles." But then something unexpected happened. The referee walked to the center of the pitch, and instead of signaling for extra time, he raised his hand, calling the captains of both teams. Lucas and Nishida looked at each other, confused. "What''s going on?" asked Lucas as he sipped his water near the bench. "We won''t have extra time. The game will go straight to penalties... It''s a short championship, so that''s their policy." said Mr. Yamamoto. Chapter 59 58 - Penalties Penalties.The result of months of training and effort would now be summed up in a sequence of kicks. Lucas approached Nishida, who was standing next to him, trying to catch his breath. "Straight to penalties? That wasn''t in the plans." Nishida said. Lucas forced a smile. "Nothing ever is, is it?" He snapped his fingers, as he did whenever he got nervous, and looked up at the sky. "Let''s end this the right way." Coach Yamamoto called them together for a quick meeting near the dugout. "You know what''s at stake better than anyone. You also know that you''ve trained for this. I''m not going to keep repeating the same old words of encouragement. It''s us who will take the first penalty, and it''s us who will win. Let''s follow the order we discussed in the hotel this morning when we imagined this scenario." Nishida nodded. "Yes, sir." Find your next read at empire Nishida would go first. After him would come Kenji, Lucas, Tsukada and, finally, Hidefumi. The weight of responsibility was enormous. Lucas looked at his teammates, who, despite their visible fatigue, seemed ready to take the last step. When the referee blew the whistle to signal the start of the penalties, the players from both teams lined up on the halfway line, while the fans held their breath, aware that every shot was now decisive. "Who would have thought we''d get to this point?" One of the commentators on the online broadcast said. "This is undoubtedly the most exciting game of the championship so far. The Wushia College team, who no one expected to go this far, now have the golden chance to win on penalties. And look, Nishikawa High School, with its solid defense and aggressive attacking tactics, also has the chance to win after such a tough game." "That''s it. Let''s see who has nerves of steel." Nishida was the first to walk slowly to the penalty spot. His countenance was serious. The goalkeeper from Nishikawa College, a young man with an intimidating expression, looked enormous under the stadium lights. He swayed from side to side, trying to unsettle his opponent. Lucas knew that his friend had skill and confidence, but he also knew that the moment could move anyone. And so, with a simple gesture, Nishida positioned the ball, took two steps back and, when he heard the referee''s whistle, shot with force. The ball flew into the right side of the goal. The goalkeeper jumped in the right direction, but the shot was strong and placed well enough to pass through his outstretched fingers. Goal. Lucas smiled, feeling the first layer of tension dissipate. They were ahead. But there was still a long way to go. Goalkeeper Toshinori, from Wushia College, was greeted by Nishida, who whispered: "I trust you! Catch even one of their shots and we''ll be in the semi-final!" Toshinori agreed with a nod, but the truth was that he wasn''t very confident. Before entering high school a few months ago, Toshinori hadn''t imagined himself playing soccer because he had always preferred basketball, but he had started playing because his best friend, Kuwabara, had joined him in training as a goalkeeper and so he had gradually joined the team. So although Toshinori didn''t see himself as a great professional goalkeeper in the future, he was just as nervous as his teammates who wanted to become professional players because his friends'' fate was in his hands too. Luke, Nishikawa High''s most skillful striker, was already positioned with the ball at the penalty spot. He had a relaxed, almost casual posture as he adjusted the ball with his foot. From the bench, coach Yamamoto watched silently. "Football is more mental than physical now." Toshinori positioned himself in the center of the goal with his hands outstretched and his eyes fixed on his opponent. He knew that the technique for taking penalties wasn''t just to throw yourself to one side and hope for the best. You had to watch the player''s body, his eyes, his movement, his feet. The referee raised his arm and blew the whistle, then Luke began his run towards the ball. Lucas barely blinked. He saw the striker advance, place his supporting foot firmly on the ground and shoot. The shot was perfect. The ball flew towards the top left corner of the goal. Toshinori jumped up, stretching as far as he could, but he knew mid-jump that he wouldn''t make it in time. The score was level. Lucas exhaled slowly, feeling a pang of frustration. He knew it wouldn''t be easy, but deep down there was a silent hope that Toshinori would be able to make the save early on. Toshinori stood up slowly, wiping his hands on his shorts. Kenji walked to the penalty spot with an intense focus in his eyes. He was known for his calmness on the pitch, technical defensive skills and control under pressure. Unlike Luke, Kenji wasn''t the main striker, but his precision with the ball was respected by everyone in the team. Kenji adjusted the ball, took three steps back and waited for the whistle. When it sounded, Kenji advanced and his shot was dry, straight into the bottom right corner of the goal. The Nishikawa goalkeeper dived the other way. Goal. The next spot-kick came from Klaus, another skillful player from Nishikawa High School. He had a reputation for taking penalties with impressive force, which made his shots dangerous, because even if the goalkeeper got it just right, the force of the shot often made it indefensible. The referee blew the whistle again, and Klaus shot with all the power of his right leg. The ball flew like a bullet, but this time Toshinori was ready. He had been watching Klaus'' foot, noticing the slight angle of his position. In fractions of a second, the goalkeeper dived to his right, stretching out as far as he could. His fingers touched the ball, diverting it slightly from its trajectory, but it still ended up inside the goal. The tie still stood, and Lucas sighed. Now it was his turn. S§×ar?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Chapter 60 59 - Mistakes Lucas walked towards the penalty spot with his heart pounding. He took a deep breath, trying to calm the whirlwind that was forming inside him. He looked at the opposing goalkeeper, a tall boy whose eyes seemed not to blink, fixed on Lucas with a menacing intensity.Lucas knew that all eyes were on him. He knew that his teammates placed the same trust in him that he had placed in Nishida and Kenji. Now it was his turn to carry all that weight. But unlike many other times, Lucas felt a calm come over him. It was as if, at that crucial moment, everything he had trained for, all the afternoons he had spent on the pitch perfecting his skills, had been condensed into a single simple gesture: the kick. ''Breathe, concentrate and shoot. Nothing else matters now,'' he thought, repeating the words Yamamoto always said during penalty shoot-outs. He placed the ball carefully on the spot, as if it were a ritual. The goalkeeper''s eyes never left his. Lucas tried to decipher his opponent, looking for some hesitation, some sign of nervousness, but the goalkeeper seemed impassive, a veritable wall of concentration. Taking two steps back, Lucas heard the referee''s whistle. It was the signal he needed. The world stopped for a brief second. He stepped forward confidently and shot. The ball came out hard, heading for the bottom left corner. The goalkeeper even tried to throw himself at it, but it was too late. The ball kissed the net and Lucas raised his arms, letting out a cry of relief and satisfaction. "That''s it!!!" S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Now they were ahead once again. If they kept this up, all they needed was for Toshonori to make a save or their opponent to throw it away. "Come on, Toshinori... you can do it!" Lucas greeted Toshinori before turning back to his teammates in the middle of the pitch. The next player from Nishikawa High School approached the mark. Luke and Klaus had already kicked, so Wushia High School''s chances were better than ever. Toshinori positioned himself in the goal with his legs slightly bent, his body ready to react to any movement. His eyes were fixed on his opponent. The referee blew the whistle, and the opposing player advanced. The shot went into the bottom right-hand corner. Toshinori was quick to pounce, but the ball slipped under his body and into the back of the net. The tie was back on. "Damn..." Lucas whispered, clenching his fists. It wasn''t Toshinori''s fault, the shot had been good. Now it was Tsukada''s turn. He walked to the penalty spot with a firm stance, although Lucas could see a slight tremor in his teammate''s hands. Tsukada had always been a reliable player, but shooting wasn''t exactly his strong point. The stadium fell silent for a brief moment when the referee blew his whistle. Tsukada ran, and the sound of the kick echoed. The ball went wide left, only for the Nishikawa High School goalkeeper to guess the side and dive. With a quick touch with the palm of one hand, the goalkeeper deflected the ball away. "Oh, no!" One of the live commentators said. "It was a good shot, but goalkeeper Namiki read the Wushia High School No. 10 like an open book!" The ball rolled slowly off the sideline, and goalkeeper Namiki, with a discreet smile on his face, stood up and shouted to his teammates. The tie still stood, but Tsukada''s mistake had tipped the scales dangerously in Nishikawa High School''s favor. "I''m sorry, guys." Tsukada said as he walked back to the center of the field. "It''s not over yet." said Nishida, concentrating on the goal where the penalty kicks were being taken. "One mistake doesn''t define you, Tsukada," said Lucas, putting his hand on his colleague''s shoulder, trying to offer some consolation. Tsukada just nodded, his eyes still fixed on the ground. The mistake seemed to weigh heavily on his back, as if the entire team was to blame. But there was no time for regrets. Nishikawa High School''s next player was already in position. The striker was an unknown, a player who had come on at the end of the second half and played a long time. Nobody knew what to expect. However, Lucas knew that this was the kind of substitution made with penalties in mind. Toshinori had his arms open and his eyes fixed on his opponent as if they could pierce his soul. He knew that this was one of the decisive moments of the match. A single movement, a split second of hesitation, and everything could be lost. The referee''s whistle blew, cutting through the air like a blade. The Nishikawa player began his run with quick steps. He kicked the ball hard, aiming for the top right corner of the goal, an unstoppable ball. The ball looked like an arrow, shooting towards the goal with precision, but Toshinori saw it all. For a brief second, all eyes were fixed on the ball and the goalkeeper who was now flying through the air, like a hawk towards its prey. Toshinori''s fingers, stretched to the maximum, finally touched the ball, deflecting it out of the goal with a firm clap. A roar of euphoria filled the stadium. The Wushia High School fans erupted in shouts of joy, and Lucas smiled broadly. They were still alive in the game. Toshinori stood up quickly, raising his fists in the air. "That''s it, Toshinori! What a save!" shouted Nishida. Now it was Kuwabara''s turn. The last of the normal penalty kicks. If the next two penalties were taken, the game would remain tied and other players would have to start taking the penalties one by one until the tie-breaker finally took place. Kuwabara walked slowly to the penalty spot. He was short but quick and had a good cross. However, what few people knew was that Kuwabara never felt comfortable in high-pressure situations. And now, as he approached the ball, his shoulders seemed stiffer than usual and he was shaking. "Kuwabara, you can do it!" shouted Toshinori, Kuwabara''s best friend. With the score still tied, a mistake by Kuwabara could cost him the victory. At that minute, only the wind was blowing lightly through the stands. Goalkeeper Namiki was already in position. He knew that if he saved that shot, Nishikawa High School would be one step away from victory. Kuwabara took a deep breath and settled the ball with his feet, took three steps back and, after a moment that seemed to last an eternity, the referee blew the whistle. The striker waited a few seconds, trying to create discomfort in the opposing goalkeeper, and then ran towards the ball, but unlike Lucas and the others who had shot with confidence, Kuwabara was too careful because he didn''t want to. His body leaned slightly backwards at the moment of the kick, and the impact with the ball wasn''t firm enough. The shot came out crooked and slow, making it fall easily into the hands of goalkeeper Namiki. It was the worst shot of all the kicks so far, and probably the easiest save of Namiki''s life. Kuwabara, incredulous, put his hands to his head. He had made a mistake. Continue your journey with empire Kuwabara stood still for a moment, his eyes lost, unable to believe what had just happened. The High School players knew they had an advantage now. The next player walked to the penalty spot with confident strides. Toshinori, as much as he had saved an incredible shot, was now faced with an almost impossible task. If his opponent hit the target, it would be the end of the line. Lucas closed his eyes for a moment, trying to dispel the pessimism. He wanted to believe that there was still a chance, that Toshinori could pull off another miracle, but the reality was just as cruel as in his past life. The referee blew the final whistle, and the Nishikawa High School player sent the ball into the opposite corner. This time, Toshinori couldn''t reach it. The goal sealed the fate of the match. The Nishikawa players celebrated, running towards their goalkeeper, while Wushia High School stood still on the pitch, trying to process what had just happened. Lucas felt the bitter taste of defeat spread in his mouth. It didn''t matter how hard they had fought, how hard they had tried. His eyes filled with tears. He had the emotional age of an almost middle-aged man, but the feeling of frustration was the same as that of any 16-year-old boy. He looked up at the sky, trying to keep the tears from flowing, but as his friends around him began to cry at the ready, tears streamed down Lucas''s face. Defeat hurt like a stab wound. Toshinori ducked his head under the crossbar, exhausted, but then a shadow blocked out some of the sunlight beneath him. "You did what you could. Let''s leave here with pride." Kuwabara held out his hand to Toshinori. Toshinori''s mouth began to tremble as he tried to hold back the tears, for seeing Kuwabara with tear-filled eyes was the hardest blow he could have received. The two of them walked together towards the rest of the team, ready to face what was coming next, but knowing that, despite their defeat, they had done very well. Chapter 61 60 - Farewell Your next read is at empire"What a match, my friends! Nishikawa High School have just secured victory and their place in the semi-finals in a tight contest! Namiki''s last-gasp penalty save was the final blow, and they now advance in the tournament! But hats off to Wushia High School. These boys gave their all on the pitch, faced a strong opponent and, even with a limited coaching staff - just one coach, no assistants, no analysts - they made it far." "Absolutely! Unfortunately, the penalty mistakes weighed on them. But in all honesty, these boys had an incredible campaign. Wushia High School doesn''t have a recent sporting record, but it looks like that could start to change!" "Yes, yes! And coach Yamamoto deserves applause too. He''s managed to tie this group together, even without the resources and structure we see at other schools. They may have lost today, but the future looks bright for this team." However, at that moment, the boys couldn''t hear the words that were trying to comfort them. Anyway, if they could hear them, for the boys the weight of defeat was stronger than any external recognition. The bitter taste of defeat still lingered in Lucas'' mouth. He wanted to shout, to punch something, but at the same time, all he could do was walk with his head down, in silence, following the flow of the players. He was no longer a young man who couldn''t control his emotions. In the dressing room, no one said a word. Kuwabara, sitting on a bench, was still in disbelief at the mistake he had made. He pressed his face into his hands, clearly ashamed, sad, disappointed, frustrated... "I''m sorry..." muttered Kuwabara. "I''ve ruined everything." The weight of that mistake was evident, but his companions knew that it wouldn''t be fair to put all the responsibility on Kuwabara. Everyone knew deep down that there were points in the game where they could have done better, made different decisions. It was a collective defeat, not just the result of individual failure. Nishida raised his head and walked over to Kuwabara, then put his hand on his shoulder. "You did your best, man. It was a penalty shootout, anyone can make a mistake. It''s not the end of the world." Kuwabara only nodded slightly, still visibly dejected. Toshinori opened his mouth to speak, but couldn''t find the right words. Everyone was emotionally drained after such a long and short championship at the same time. When coach Yamamoto entered the locker room, there was no anger or disappointment in his countenance, which was different from what many had expected. He was calm and his eyes swept the locker room before he finally addressed the boys. "I want you to listen to me, men. What you did today was something extraordinary." The players'' eyes turned to the coach, confused. After all, they had lost. "I know losing hurts. I know you wanted to be on the other side of that match, celebrating. We have been. But that''s part of sport. For someone to win, someone else has to lose. Even though we lost today, I want you to know how proud I am of everyone here." He raised his right hand and, before the boys'' eyes, he closed it into a fist. "You''ve taken the name of Wushia High School further than most people could have imagined. And, above all, you played as a team." Yamamoto looked at each of the players and smiled. "Today, you have taken the first step towards bringing back Wushia High School''s sporting legacy. And that''s no small feat... Most of you are in your first or second year. That means you''ll still have plenty of chances to play soccer. To compete. To win. And if you keep working hard, as you have done so far, I have no doubt that you will achieve even greater things. Hold your heads high. Today was just a battle. The real goal is still ahead." Lucas looked around and saw that his teammates also seemed less discouraged. Yamamoto''s words had struck the right chord, bringing a little light to that dark moment. "You''re a good coach, old man..." muttered Tsukada, finally breaking his self-imposed vow of silence. "I do what I can." Yamamoto laughed softly, and many others laughed too. "When you''re all ready, pack your things and we''ll head back to the hotel." Before leaving, Lucas went to the restroom outside the locker room because the one in the locker room was, as usual, too noisy. He leaned on the sink and stared at his reflection. "System, this time you didn''t give me an assignment. Why did that happen? Did you already know about my defeat?" Lucas asked. [Missions are offered to encourage you to do your best. This time, you didn''t need any more motivation to win than you already had]. "Ah, so that''s how it works." [Stimulating you isn''t the only function of missions, but it is the main one.] "I imagine that the other functions are to help me improve, make me mature and so on... Yeah, anyway, I haven''t managed to be any better." Lucas''s black hair was still messy and he still had the expression of someone who was struggling internally to process what had happened. The penalties... the missed opportunity... the look of despair in Toshinori''s eyes when the ball went in. It all repeated itself like an endless cycle in his mind. "I should have done more." He punched the sink lightly. [Indeed. You could have used your skills better. You didn''t get the best out of yourself or your team]. "I know..." Lucas had become accustomed to criticizing himself. Since the start of the championship, every mistake, every inaccurate pass, was an extra stone heaped on his shoulders. After such a narrow defeat, the feeling of inadequacy seemed unbearable. It was at that moment that the bathroom door opened. Lucas looked up, expecting to see one of his teammates. However, the person who entered was not one of his friends, nor was it someone from Wushia High School or even a male, considering that the bathroom was for men only. It was Hasumi Seiya, the young coach from Hanrahan High School. Her light blue hair was tied up in a high ponytail, and she was wearing a blue jacket from her school, the badge embroidered on the sleeve. "Y-you?! What are you doing here? You''re in the men''s room, what if someone sees you?" Seiya didn''t seem in the least bit bothered by the likelihood that Lucas had pointed out. She crossed her arms with a calm expression and said: "If someone sees me, it''s not your concern, Tanaka. I came here to talk to you." Lucas arched his eyebrows. She wanted to talk to him? At a time like that, after a defeat? He imagined that Seiya was there to criticize him again, perhaps to point out his mistakes or even ridicule the team''s performance. "I know you''re probably blaming yourself for today''s result." She began, and Lucas felt a knot tighten in his throat. "But I didn''t come here to tell you how bad you are as a number 10." Lucas blinked, surprised. "Then what did you come for?" "I came to congratulate you." "Congratulate? We lost." "Yes. Just as I predicted would happen." Hasumi Seiya agreed. "You lost. But you... well, you showed that you have the potential. Sure, you''re not a leader on the field, you''re far from be creative with the ball on your feet and you can''t even be tactical, but you stand out from the rest for your physical composure, your finishing, your passing, your drive, your defensive work, your attacking work and your midfield work. You have what it takes to be a good footballer." Lucas was used to criticism and demands, especially from himself, but the praise, especially from Hasumi Seiya, took him by surprise. "Why are you saying that?" Seiya stepped forward and held out a hand. "It''s because I''m looking forward to seeing what kind of player you''ll become, Tanaka. By the time I reach my goal and am coaching the Japanese men''s national team, I hope you''ll have made a name for yourself in professional soccer, because I''ll still be keeping an eye on you." Those words sounded like thunder in Lucas'' mind. He was facing one of the most promising figures in Japanese soccer. A young coach who, despite her age and because she was a woman, had already won the respect and admiration of many in the sporting world. "Me? Do you really think I...?" Seiya smiled. "I don''t know. You have some of the qualities I value in a player. The difference is that you need to keep improving your strengths and weaknesses. You need to work harder, be more strategic on the pitch and technically better. You''re on the right track and I don''t think I''m the only person who has noted it. But you also need a team where you don''t have to work so hard, think so much about others and focus more on your game." "What do you mean?" Lucas frowned and asked. "I think you know the answer... It''s the end of the school year. Think carefully about your opportunities and evaluate them." [New Main Mission!] [Name of Main Mission: Farewell Description: Wushia High School has a good school soccer club, but to follow a different path you may need to do more than make different decisions, you may need to breathe new air. S§×ar?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Goal: Leave Wushia High School. Rewards: +1 Mysterious Function]. Chapter 62 61 - New Day Nishida was sitting on the wooden bench, facing the open cupboard with his elbows on his knees and his head down. He had already taken off his boots and changed, but he still couldn''t convince himself to leave. His eyes were fixed on the ground, but his mind was reliving every moment of the game, every shot, every pass, every small decision that could have made a difference.Finally, with a heavy sigh, he stood up, slowly picking up his backpack with a tired expression. The promise he had made to himself to carry the team to victory echoed in his head like an invisible scar. However, there was a nagging certainty in his chest: it hadn''t been enough. As he slung his backpack over one shoulder, his fingers tightened on the strap. The other players were slowly leaving to go to the bus. Nishida preferred to leave last, to give himself a moment to face his own thoughts before facing the tired faces of his teammates and, even worse, the emptiness on the bus. So he did. When the changing room was empty, he left, still listening to the sound of the fans in the stands a few meters up the road. The day would still be filled with three more games than they had. As he left the changing room, everything seemed colder. Perhaps because he had just showered, perhaps because he no longer felt all that body heat. The long corridor towards the exit was empty, but when Nishida least expected it, two other people crossed his path. Klaus and Luke Ivanov, the twins from Nishikawa High School. Klaus, their No. 9, didn''t turn aside to make way for Nishida. It was a sign of rivalry. They had played far away from each other, but at that moment they both tried to impose their presence on the other. It wasn''t just a question of personality, but of pride as number 9s. Luke, on the other hand, seemed calmer. Even though he was equally talented, he didn''t carry the same competitive fervor as Klaus. The three of them stared at each other in silence for a few seconds, and Nishida felt something inside him. It wasn''t exactly hatred, but anger. It was a natural feeling, after all, these twins were the main problems for Wushia High School. It was Luke who broke the silence, with a slight smile on his face. "It was a good match, Nishida. You fought well." Nishida looked first at Luke and then at Klaus, whose eyes hadn''t left him from the start "Not well enough. I wasn''t able to help my team as I should have." Nishida admitted. He was proud of himself, but he felt he needed to admit it to someone. Luke gestured with his hands. "That''s part of the game. Sometimes you do everything right, and it''s still not enough. But you played well, no one can deny that." Nishida felt a lump in his throat when he heard those words, because he knew that, although they were true, they weren''t enough to erase the disappointment he felt. He looked at the ground for a moment, but then, when he turned back to face Luke and Klaus, he tried to convey what he really felt. "If we meet again on the pitch, I won''t lose!" It wasn''t a threat, but an oath he was swearing both to himself and to the Ivanov brothers. Klaus, who had said nothing until then, raised an eyebrow and smiled. "Let''s see, Nishida! I hope you''re right, because we''re not going to make it easy either!" He clenched his right fist and showed it to Nishida. Continue your journey on empire Luke once again tried to defuse the situation with a laugh. "Good luck for the rest of the year, Nishida. Maybe we''ll meet in the pros." He smiled genuinely, offering a gesture of respect that Nishida couldn''t ignore. Nishida nodded, but didn''t say anything else. Instead, he continued on his way towards the exit. There was nothing more to say. The game was over, but the story between them was far from over. The Ivanov brothers stayed behind, watching Nishida walk away. Klaus kept his eyes fixed on him for a few more seconds before speaking with a slight laugh: "That guy''s hot-blooded. I like that." "Hot-blooded? No, he''s just very good. Better not underestimate him when we meet him again." Klaus shrugged. "I won''t underestimate him. But he''s going to have to work hard if he wants to beat us." * S§×arch* The ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. For the Wushia High School players, getting home around dusk and telling their families in person about the result was a real blow. As he reached the door, Lucas hesitated before turning the knob. Ayumi and John always supported him and he felt he could finally do them proud, but this time... this time he didn''t know how to face them. When he finally went in and found them in the living room, he felt pain because they were surprised to see him home ''early''. Of course, it would have made it easier for him if he had texted them to let them know he was coming back, but he also felt that they deserved to know everything in person. "I''m glad you''re home again, son." John said and hugged Lucas. "Ah... yes, I''m back early," mumbled Lucas, trying to avoid eye contact with either of them. Ayumi, noticing the tone in her son''s voice, closed the book and got up from the sofa. She was a woman of subtle gestures. "We... we lost." he said before she could hug him and then raised her head. "We lost on penalties." "Son..." John said. "I... I let you down," said Lucas, looking at them. "I wasn''t good enough. I couldn''t win." Ayumi, with her gentle eyes, touched Lucas''s shoulder with one of her hands and squeezed it. She knew how much Lucas demanded of himself, how much he wanted to be perfect in everything he did, how rushed he felt, as if opportunities and time were slipping like grains of sand between his fingers. "Lucas, you don''t have to be perfect. The important thing isn''t the end result, it''s how much you gave." "I did that, but it wasn''t enough... I just... I just wanted to make you proud." "And you make us proud, son. We''re always proud of you, no matter what the result. What matters is your effort, the person you are, how much you grow with every step. And you''ve grown a lot." Ayumi''s words were like a balm, but the hole inside Lucas was deeper than they could reach. He wasn''t just disappointed that he hadn''t won, because this had already happened to him several times throughout high school in his past chance. The real pain came from knowing that, with all the power the system gave him, with all the chances, items and so on, he still lost. He was no longer sure that he would be able to get where he wanted to go. Deep down, he believed that in order to be noticed in professional soccer, it would be necessary to win school championships, to stand out among the best. And now, having lost... how could he compete with players who were on the winning team? Only a few players of that level would be selected for the youth teams and of those selected, a small percentage would become professionals. After turning professional, there were also different levels of leagues and so on, so how could he become the best in the world and change his destiny and the lives of his family? "I just... I just wanted it to be different." He mumbled with watery eyes. John sighed and carefully placed a hand on Lucas''s vacant shoulder. "I understand that you feel that way. Believe me, we''ve all felt that way at some point. But this defeat doesn''t define you. It doesn''t define what you can achieve." "We''re with you, no matter what." Ayumi said with an encouraging smile. "We always will be." That evening, after telling her everything and a long bath, Lucas retired to his room. The walls seemed to reflect his own thoughts of doubt and frustration. He threw himself on the bed, staring at the ceiling. Lucas knew that if he wanted to become the player Seiya believed he could be, he would need to overcome more than just his opponents on the pitch. He had to face himself. But how could he do that? [You failed today, Lucas.] C¨¦os'' voice was neutral, almost cold. "I know..." [But failure is part of the process. There''s no growth without failure]. Lucas was silent for a moment. The system was right, of course. Failures were necessary. "I just... I just don''t know if I''m strong enough to keep dealing with this." [You''re stronger than you think, Lucas Tanaka. If it weren''t for your willpower, I wouldn''t exist]. "What do you mean?" [...] [If you want to keep going, you need to learn to get up after defeats and, instead of crying, think about what you could have done and what you can improve]. [Despite your defeat, you earned 150 Star Points and reached Star Level 4]. [Everything wasn''t so bad, right?] [Go to sleep, tomorrow''s a new day]. Hours passed before Lucas finally fell asleep, exhausted not only physically, but emotionally. Even asleep, his mind wouldn''t leave him alone. He dreamt about the match, about the moments that could have been different. But deep down, he knew he had to learn to live with it. When he woke up the next morning, the classic daily mission appeared for the first time since the tournament began. [Daily Mission "Effort X Reward" is available]. Lucas knew that staying in bed after defeat would be worse. He had experience with this. So he got up, went to the bathroom and looked at himself in the mirror. His eyes were still red from tiredness and the deep circles under his eyes showed that he''d had a bad night''s sleep. "I''m better than that." He washed his face with cold water in an attempt to dispel the sadness. After breakfast, Lucas decided to go for a run to start the daily mission with the worst part. He put on his sneakers, strapped his cell phone to his arm and left the house. The streets were still quiet at that hour, only a few people walking because it was Saturday. He turned up the music playing in his headphones and began to run at a light pace. After a while, while he was running, his cell phone vibrated on his arm. Lucas stopped, panting, and looked at the notification. Surprisingly, it was a message from Coach Yamamoto. "Lucas, I know it''s Saturday and you''re tired because of the championship trip, but I need to talk to you today. There''s someone I''d like to introduce you to. Meet me in the teachers'' lounge at 10am?" Lucas frowned. Who did the coach want to introduce? He looked at his watch: 8:30. He had just enough time to finish his daily assignment and get to school. Chapter 63 62 - New opportunity outside Japan Wushia High School was deserted when Lucas Tanaka arrived at the gate. Of course it would be, after all it was a vacation Saturday and so there weren''t even any club activities going on.The only people around were a few men from a gardening company who were pruning the grass and trees. Passing through the gate, Lucas headed for the entrance to the main building. As usual, he removed his shoes at the entrance and changed into school shoes, a common practice in all Japanese schools. He looked at the empty corridors and wondered if any soul other than himself and the coach would be there that day. As he walked slowly down the corridor towards the teachers'' room on the second floor, he could only hear footsteps. As he reached the door to the teachers'' room, he heard something he hadn''t expected: laughter. One of them, hoarse and with a slight wheeze, was unmistakable - it was Coach Yamamoto''s. The other laugh, a little younger and thicker, belonged to someone Lucas didn''t recognize. "Who could that be?" Before knocking on the door, he thought. But instead of imagining it, he decided to see who it was and knocked on the door three times. Immediately, Yamamoto''s familiar voice sounded. "Come in." Lucas opened the door slowly, entering the room which, like the rest of the school, was practically empty that day. The teachers'' room was usually full of teachers preparing lessons or marking exams, but now it was devoid of the usual bustle. Only Coach Yamamoto was there, sitting at the center table next to a man Lucas had never seen before. The strange man''s hair was slightly graying on the sides, suggesting that he was in his forties. He was dressed in casual clothes and smiled when he saw Lucas. "Ah, Lucas, how nice of you to come!" Yamamoto said, approaching him and putting a hand on his shoulder. "I want you to meet someone very special to me. The coach then gestured towards the middle-aged man. "This is Takashi Otsuka, a very old pupil of mine who also played here, at Wushia High School." "Eh? Have you been a teacher that long, Mr. Yamamoto?" Lucas asked. Yamamoto laughed softly. He pulled out a chair for the young man to sit on and gestured for him to make himself comfortable. "Yes, Lucas, I''ve been a teacher for longer than you might think. I sometimes forget how many years have passed," said Yamamoto, with a nostalgic smile. "Takashi was one of my first students, at the start of my career, and I''ve watched him grow into an exceptional person." Lucas had always known that Coach Yamamoto had a long career, but he hadn''t imagined that he had helped train older people like Takashi Otsuka. "And what do you do now, Mr. Otsuka?" Lucas asked. Otsuka picked up the pot of tea on the table and started pouring it into a cup for Lucas. "Well, I''ve been working in soccer for over 20 years. My history with soccer began here, at Wushia High School, playing on the same pitch where you train today. Of course, it''s not literally the same, it''s been modernized. Anyway, after finishing school, I went to High School, but my heart was always in soccer. Soon after graduating, I got an opportunity to work abroad, and it was there that my career really began to take shape. I''ve managed a few teams during my career, and I''ve had several offers to work as a manager in J-League teams." "Ow...." "Between you and me, Tanaka and Mr. Yamamoto, I''ve never really liked bureaucracy. I love pure soccer, on the pitch, seeing the development of players, tactics, moves, the growth of teams. I''m not a big fan of the commercial side of it." Continue your adventure with empire "Is that why you didn''t accept the positions?" Lucas asked. "Yes, exactly. I prefer to travel, to see soccer being played around the world, to understand the different cultures, how the sport connects with people in different countries. I can''t imagine being stuck in an office, dealing with contracts and paperwork." Lucas couldn''t hide his admiration, because it showed on his face as he listened to Ostuka speak. "If you prefer to travel, then what made you come to Wushia High School?" Lucas asked. "Business in Japan?" Otsuka laughed, as if he had expected this question. "I was back in town to visit my family. It had been a few years since I was last here. Just listen. I was walking down the street when I overheard two men talking about how well the Wushia High School soccer club was doing in a school championship in Nagoya. It was a surprise, to be honest. I didn''t know that Wushia High School still had such a strong team. I was curious, so I decided to investigate further. I watched your entire match against Gekokujou High School, and that''s when you, Lucas, caught my eye." Lucas was speechless for a moment. He didn''t know what to say. Why would someone so experienced in the world of soccer, someone who had already worked abroad, be interested in him? Otsuka seemed to notice the confusion on Lucas''s face. "What charmed me about you wasn''t just your technical talent, although you have plenty of that. It was your ability to adapt, the way you read the game and adjust to situations, the way you work hard and give your all. You don''t just play soccer - you think about soccer. And that, at the level you''re at, is rare to find." Lucas felt his face blush slightly at the compliment. "After that, I decided to look for more of your games. I watched some recordings of previous matches and was impressed by your progress. Maybe I''m being hasty, but you''re the kind of player that hardly exists in Japan." "I... don''t know what to say." Lucas finally admitted, with a slightly nervous smile. "It''s an honor, Mr. Otsuka. I''ve always strived to improve, but to hear this from someone with your experience in soccer is something that really leaves me speechless." "Otsukada still hasn''t mentioned the most important part of the conversation," said Mr. Yamamoto. Lucas looked between the two men, confused. "The most important part?" Takashi Otsuka gave a reassuring smile, passed Lucas his tea and leaned his elbows on the table. "Lucas, I''m not a scout for any Japanese club, nor am I a manager of a J-League team or any other team. Although those people could probably start contacting you in the coming days and months, especially after your performance in the league. My role in soccer is a little different. I''m an assistant coach for a Premier League team in England." Lucas blinked, completely surprised. Premier League? The most watched league in the world, where some of soccer''s biggest stars played. He didn''t know if he could even imagine the scale of it. "Yes, I''m an assistant coach at Brighton FC. The season ended two weeks ago and I decided to rest for a few days here in my hometown." sea??h th§× n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Brighton FC wasn''t just any team. Although not one of the globally renowned giants like Manchester United or Liverpool, Brighton played and competed in one of the most competitive leagues in the world. Lucas looked at Yamamoto, seeking some confirmation that this was real and not a joke. The coach, noticing the boy''s state of shock, laughed lightly. "There''s more." "More?" asked Lucas. "As I mentioned, I came to Japan to rest, but I can never completely disconnect from soccer. After watching your matches and following your progress, I got an idea in my head. I spoke to some colleagues at Brighton, and they told me that the club is about to hold a series of try-outs to collect potential talent to help the youth teams." Lucas blinked, trying to take in every word. "The screening will be held next week at the club''s properties in England. It''s an open competition, where any player can sign up if they pay the fee, but they said that several players with potential will be invited. They asked if I had anything in mind and you came to mind, not just because you''re talented, but because I see something unique in you. I''m not going to lie to you, Lucas, it''s a long road. Even if you stood out in the sift and got into the youth team, you''d start in the youth team, playing in a lower division in England and..." In the middle of Otsukada''s explanation, the words started to become distant to Lucas because it was much more absurd than he had expected for his life at that moment, after a defeat. "But I''m still... I''m still in high school." Lucas stammered. "Don''t worry, if you pass the sift, you''ll have the chance to move to England. There, the club offers a school for developing athletes. You''ll continue your studies, but with a routine that allows for professional training and games. Brighton also has a special program for young foreigners that includes personal and psychological support and even financial support. It''s not just an opportunity to play soccer, Lucas. It''s a chance to change your life." A school for athletes? To join the youth ranks of a Premier League club? He thought about his current life - at Wushia High School, the daily training sessions, the matches, the friends he had made, his family. The thought of leaving it all behind was daunting, but at the same time, how could he turn down a chance like this? "Of course, this is something you need to discuss with your parents, with your family. But I agree with Otsuka - opportunities like this don''t come along every day." Mr. Yamamoto said. "Think carefully, because it''s not a guarantee either and as well as paying for the ticket, you''ll need to stay for at least three days there for the screening. Your parents would need to spend between 150,000 and 300,000 yen. Of course, this cost would be paid right from your first salary as a youth player." Chapter 64 63 - English Mr. Yamamoto cleared his throat, catching Lucas''s eye. "I know it''s a lot to process right now, kid. You don''t have to make a decision right away."Lucas nodded slightly, signaling that he understood, but his mind was still far away. He rose from his chair almost automatically, bowing respectfully to the coach and Otsuka before saying goodbye and leaving the office. The heat of the summer sun hit him as soon as he left the school building, but strangely it didn''t seem to bother him. His thoughts were so charged that he barely noticed his surroundings. As he walked through the streets towards the house where he lived with his family, Lucas tried to organize the words in his head. He needed to tell John and Ayumi what had just happened, but how could he explain something so... big? He had always imagined that he would follow the normal path: be spotted by a scout, join a youth team and work his way up. He never imagined living abroad so young, let alone training at an elite club in England. When he finally got home, the low sound of the television came from the living room and the washing machine in the laundry room was running. This simple house... he had felt relieved to come back to this place after ''dying'', and he didn''t know how to feel about it now. John was sitting on the sofa. It was his day off because he''d asked for it because he''d thought he''d go to Nagoya to watch Lucas play in the semi-finals. Well, the plans didn''t turn out as they had imagined. John was concentrating on a sports program while Ayumi was bustling around in the laundry room. "Hi, Lucas! How was practice today?" Ayumi asked excitedly when she saw Lucas in the hallway. "Did you go to the park?" Lucas took a deep breath and let it out slowly before answering. "Training was... good. But I had to go to school." Ayumi frowned. "On a Saturday? What happened? Did you forget something on the bus?" "Actually, Mr. Yamamoto wanted to talk to me and it''s something important I need to talk to you about." John looked over his shoulder at his son, puzzled. "Important, huh? Come and sit here, then." He patted the sofa lightly, inviting Lucas to join him. Lucas walked over to the sofa and sat down. His hands were restless and intertwined. Ayumi, sitting down too, looked at Lucas'' hands and realized that the matter was quite serious. Experience more on empire "So, what is it, son?" John asked as he turned off the television. Lucas began to speak slowly, choosing his words carefully: "Mr. Yamamoto sent me a message, telling me to come to school because he was going to introduce me to someone important. I went and he introduced me to a man called Takashi Otsuka..." "Takashi Otsuka?" John''s eyes widened. Lucas was surprised too. "Do you know him, Dad?" "Of course I do! What sports fan in this town doesn''t know Takashi Otsuka? A few years ago, he was simply one of the most coveted men to become a coach in the J-League. Everyone wanted him! "Khum!" Ayumi cleared her throat, drawing John''s attention back to what really mattered. "Ah, yes. Son, please continue." John said. "Well... Otsuka said he works as an assistant coach at Brighton, a Premier League club in England. They''re holding a try-out next week, and he''s nominated me to take part." The television room fell silent. John and Ayumi exchanged glances, clearly shocked, astonished and frightened. It was much more than either of them had expected to hear that morning when the cicadas in the garden were making so much noise. "A sieve... in England?" Ayumi repeated, as if trying to absorb the information. "Yes, an open competition in Brighton. They''ll be looking at talent for the youth team for next season. But... it''s not guaranteed that I''ll get through. And there are other costs involved." "Lucas, do you realize what that means? Brighton! The Premier League! That''s the dream of any footballer your age." "But, according to Otsuka, the trip, the stay, all of that, could cost between 150,000 and 300,000 yen." "300,000 yen... that''s a lot of money, Lucas." Lucas said with a tone as if he''d been stabbed. "And you''re still in high school..." His voice wasn''t one of reproach, but of concern. He was clearly pondering the challenges of sending their eldest son to another country at such a young age. "I know. I know it seems a lot and there''s still the question of college. But... if I passed the screening, Otsuka-san said that the club would take care of it. I could continue my studies there, at a special school for athletes, and I''d even have a salary." He paused. He paused. "It''s a unique opportunity. But at the same time, I know it''s not easy or guaranteed. And the cost... I don''t know if we can afford it." John looked at Ayumi, who was standing next to him, and asked: sea??h th§× n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. "What do you think, honey?" Although Ayumi''s expression was more restrained, more measured, she smiled: "You''ve always worked so hard, Lucas. If this is something you want, I don''t see why you shouldn''t try. But... do you really think you''re ready for it? You''ll be far away, practically on the other side of the world, and you''ll be living alone." Living alone would be nothing new for Lucas, because he was already an adult. The only problem would be living in another country with a completely different culture. "And there''s the language issue too." Ayumi said. "Oh, about that... I can speak English." Ayumi and John looked at each other again, surprised and stunned by the unexpected revelation. John, who had spent most of his life speaking English at home thinking no one understood him, shifted uncomfortably on the sofa. "Can you speak English?" John repeated a little louder than usual. Lucas smiled a little. It wasn''t exactly one of triumph, but one of restrained satisfaction, like someone finally revealing a well-kept secret. "Yes, I''ve been training for a few years... in secret." In fact, Lucas had had to learn English in his past life to try to stand out in the design office. "Hidden?" Ayumi arched her eyebrows. "What do you mean?" "What do you mean you trained in hiding? And why didn''t you ever tell us?" Lucas scratched the back of his head. "Well, it''s just... I always wanted it to be a surprise for you, Dad. You''ve always said that English is the most important language, that it could open doors all over the world. And, to be honest, I knew that, at some point, I could go on a trip or maybe live abroad. So I thought: what better way to show you that than by speaking fluently when you least expect it?" John blinked several times, as if trying to remember all the times Lucas could have disguised his attempts to learn the language without him noticing. "So... all this time... you were preparing for this? On your own?" "Yes. I listened to podcasts, watched series, practiced with language apps and sometimes even spoke alone in my room or when you weren''t around. I... wanted to make you proud." Of all the lies Lucas has ever told his parents, this was probably the most comfortable because, in parts, it was true. He really did do all this, only years later and in another life. A proud smile began to appear on John''s face. "I''m impressed, son. I really am. I had no idea you were dedicating yourself to this. But... that doesn''t change the fact that the decision you''re about to make isn''t just about the language." Ayumi agreed. "The language is an important part, Lucas, of course, but as your father said, there are so many other things involved. Living alone in a foreign country... it''s a huge challenge. And even if you can speak English, cultural adaptation can be much harder than it seems. The things you love here, the people you live with... Everything will change. It will be very difficult at first. And we''re not saying this to discourage you, but to give you an idea." In fact, life in Japan was always comfortable. It was a safe country, with good food, family and plenty of opportunities. On the other hand, playing soccer for a Premier League club seemed like an opportunity he''d never get otherwise. "I know. I know it''s going to be hard. I also know you''re worried... rightly so. But... I feel like I have to try." "Then let''s do it." John said. "Shall we?" Lucas and Ayumi asked at the same time. "Of course I''m going with you! You''re underage, you can''t go to another country on your own and think everything''s going to be fine." "But what about the costs..." "Don''t worry about that. A year ago, Ayumi and I started saving up to help you or Hana with some of your goals. Whether it was living alone or going to college. Well, since we started this not so long ago, we don''t have much, but I think I''m over 700,000 in savings." "700,000?!" "In yen!" "That''s still a lot of money!" In fact, it was only a lot to them who didn''t have much opportunity to save money. That amount was worth just over 6 thousand dollars. Chapter 65 64 - Heathrow Airport As the plane cut through the dense clouds over the vast expanse of land, Lucas looked out of the small oval window next to him. The landscape below was engulfed in a thick fog, and only the constant hum of the engines could be heard from anywhere in the plane.Next to Lucas, John was leafing through a magazine about tourist destinations in England, although his eyes didn''t seem focused on the colorful images of countryside and historic cities. He seemed to be lost in his own thoughts. Lucas closed his eyes for a moment and felt the comfort of the Business Class seat. Thanks to Mr. Otsuka''s contacts, Lucas and John had managed to get good and relatively cheap tickets considering how urgently they needed to buy them. Suddenly, John closed the magazine he was holding and asked: "So, Lucas... have you told Nishida yet?" Lucas, who had almost fallen asleep, opened his eyes abruptly. "W-what?" Enjoy exclusive content from empire "Well, he''s your best friend, isn''t he? I thought you were going to tell him about the sieve." Lucas scratched the back of his head. "Oh... about that..." He sighed. He sighed. "I... haven''t said anything yet." John raised his eyebrows, turning his body slightly towards his son with a look of restrained surprise. "What do you mean you haven''t said anything? You''re going to another country, Lucas. Don''t you think he should know?" Lucas avoided eye contact with his father''s direct gaze. He knew he couldn''t avoid the conversation, but that didn''t make it any easier. "I know, I know... It''s just that I didn''t want to say anything because... I''m still not sure how it''s all going to happen, you know? I mean, I don''t even know if I''m going to pass the tests. And the club''s training doesn''t start until next week. I thought I''d wait and see how things turn out before telling everyone. It might not work out here, right? Besides, I thought he might get a bit annoyed... After all, Mr. Otsuka only recommended one of us." John let out a long sigh, but his tone remained calm. "I understand, son. But regardless of how this ends, you must be honest with the people around you. Especially Nishida, who has been your teammate for so long. He''ll notice your absence, and if he doesn''t know why, it could lead to misunderstandings." Lucas knew his father was right. Nishida, as well as being a teammate, was a friend, someone with whom he shared the tensions and joys of soccer. Leaving him in the dark seemed wrong, but at the same time, Lucas was still dealing with his own uncertainties. What if he failed the tests? What if this opportunity was just an illusion? The silence between them persisted as the plane continued its journey, now flying over vast territories. "But you know what you''re doing, son... However, if you pass, you won''t be able to avoid a conversation." "I know, I know..." After a few hours of flying, the dim cabin lights dimmed even more, signaling that night time had arrived. Most of the passengers were already asleep. Lucas, however, couldn''t sleep a wink. He stared at the dark sky outside, where stars barely stood out against the clouds. Lucas''s mind wandered to different imaginary scenarios and topics. Although he knew this trip was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, he still couldn''t help the twinge of fear he felt when he thought about the future. John noticed Lucas'' pensive state and, with a gentle smile, reached out to pat his son''s shoulder. "It''s going to be okay, Lucas. You''re ready. Maybe not the way you think, but you are. Try to get some sleep, because your body needs rest." Lucas looked at his father and smiled. "Right, Dad..." When they finally landed at Heathrow Airport, the soft impact of the wheels against the ground woke Lucas up. The pilot announced their arrival in London, and the passengers began to move, picking up their belongings and preparing to disembark. As soon as they got off the plane and walked through the terminal, the difference between Japan and England began to make itself felt. The air was different, a little more humid and charged with a chill that cut gently even during the summer. The voices around them spoke in English, at a pace that, although understandable, seemed faster than Lucas was used to. John looked at his son with an encouraging smile. "Welcome to London, Lucas." Everything seemed different. From the architecture to the smell of the air. The first thing that hit him was the culture shock, something he had underestimated while still on Japanese soil. The signs, the notices, the conversations between the people around him - everything was in English. The accents, in particular, caught his attention. Some passengers and airport staff spoke with the typical British accent, something he had always associated with movies and series, but which now, there, in person, sounded much more intense. As they walked towards passport control, Lucas widened his eyes like a child with each new discovery. "It''s subtly different, isn''t it?" John commented. "Subtly? It''s very different." Lucas replied. The immigration officer greeted them with a neutral expression, asking the usual questions: the reason for the trip, the length of stay and, finally, he stamped their passports with a quick gesture. "Welcome to England," he said. As they passed through the automatic doors and out into the public area of the airport, the chill of London that morning welcomed them with an icy hug. S~ea??h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. John held up the collar of his jacket, trying to shield himself from the wind, as he looked around for the cab that would take them to their hotel. "Now we just need to find a cab to take us quickly to London Victoria Station," he said, rubbing his hands together to warm up. "Taxi? But wouldn''t it be quicker to go by train?" Lucas asked. "Yes, but what fun would that be? Trains are for local people to move faster, not for us tourists. We have to take the opportunity to see places we''ve never seen before, don''t you think?" "I..." "Hey, Taxi!" The sharp sound of tires sliding on asphalt echoed as the cab pulled up in front of them. It was one of London''s iconic black cabs, with its robust design and old-fashioned charm. The driver, a middle-aged man with a thick moustache and a tired look, lowered the window and leaned out slightly. "Where are you going?" He asked in a heavy but friendly accent. John was the first to approach, opening the door and signaling to Lucas. "London Victoria Station, please." "Oh! A long journey. I''m happy to take you." The interior of the cab smelled faintly of aged leather mixed with the discreet perfume of the driver. Minutes later, Lucas was admiring the city. The narrow, winding streets, flanked by red brick buildings, made the scenery very different from any city he knew in Japan. For him, everything was both new and fascinating. "Well, now we''re officially in London. And you''ll see that the city has a lot more to offer than just soccer." The cab drove through streets that were still not very busy, passing through neighborhoods that blended the old and the modern in a unique way. Lucas observed the closed store windows, the historic fa?ades, the caf¨¦s with outdoor tables covered by awnings, and the pedestrians hurrying along, perhaps on their way to work. At every corner, he was surprised by something new - the signs, the architecture. "Have you been here before, Dad?" Lucas asked. "Once, many years ago." John replied, smiling with a hint of nostalgia. "Before you were born, on a business trip." The cab driver, who had remained silent until then, looked in the rearview mirror and, with a discreet smile, commented: "Where are you coming from, if I may ask?" It was a small gesture, but it instantly made me feel more at ease during the long cab ride. "From Japan." John replied quickly. "We''ve come to try out for a soccer club here." The driver let out an admiring whistle. "Japan, eh? What a long journey. And soccer, you say? So, you''re fans of our good old sport, are you?" Lucas decided to get involved in the conversation and show his father some of his English. "Yes, I play soccer in Japan. I''m going to try out for a club here in England." The driver arched his eyebrows. "Ah, so you''re one of those talented kids! If you''re coming all this way for a trial, you must be good, right?" Lucas gave a shy smile. "Well, I''ll try. But I still don''t know if I''ll pass the test." "Oh, don''t worry." the driver replied with an encouraging tone. "If you''re here, you''re already on the right track. London has a lot of good clubs and it also has a tradition of welcoming international talent. You''ll do well, I''m sure. I''ll pray for you, after all, I always want my passengers to do well." Chapter 66 65 - Chloe When the cab stopped at the train station, Lucas and John got out with their bags. The London morning was cold and damp, with a fine drizzle gently spraying their faces as they walked into the station. The air smelled of wet concrete and stale coffee, mixed with cigarette smoke coming from a nearby area.The station was full of hurried travelers, the sound of footsteps echoing on the platforms, voices conversing in different languages, and the illuminated signs announcing the next train departures. John checked his tickets while Lucas observed the movement around him. He had always liked trains and, for a moment, he forgot the anxiety of the test, allowing himself to feel the excitement of being somewhere so different and far from home. The train to Brighton was already standing on the platform, with its elegant carriages, and they quickly boarded, finding seats next to the window. The carriage was comfortable and warm, a pleasant contrast to the cold air outside. Lucas looked out of the window as the train departed, watching London pull away. The rhythm of the train, smooth and steady, brought a sense of temporary calm. "Are you ready for tomorrow?" John asked, adjusting his seat. Lucas shrugged, trying to look casual. "I think so. I''m nervous, but I guess that''s normal, right?" "Absolutely. Nervousness is normal. It means you care." Time passed quickly and, before he knew it, the train was slowing down, announcing its arrival in Brighton. Lucas straightened up in his seat, looking out of the window as the city''s station approached. Compared to London, Brighton seemed quieter, although the traffic around the station was intense. Travelers were rushing out, many with umbrellas, trying to protect themselves from the drizzle that still persisted. "This is it." John said, getting up to get his suitcase from the compartment above the seats. S§×arch* The n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Lucas did the same, throwing the strap of his backpack over his shoulder as he felt the cold outside invade the carriage as soon as the doors opened. Brighton was everything John had described and more. The streets were narrow and charming, full of old buildings and independent stores that gave the city a welcoming air. Lucas watched with interest as they took a cab to the hotel in the center, people walking around, shop windows full of local products. It was a smaller city, but it had a charm that he couldn''t ignore. The hotel where they would be staying was comfortable and discreet, a building with a simple but elegant fa?ade. Upon entering, Lucas was greeted by a welcoming atmosphere, with dark wood furniture and the scent of lavender coming from an air freshener on the counter. After checking in, they were led to their room, which had two separate beds, as John had requested. Lucas threw his suitcase in the corner and immediately threw himself on the bed. The mattress sank slightly under his weight, and he closed his eyes for a moment, feeling the tension in his muscles begin to ease. Traveling was also very tiring. Still, he knew he had something important to do. "I''m going to the hotel gym. I need to get in shape." He said, sitting down again. John laughed lightly. "You''re right... Well, good luck. I''m going to take a break." Lucas left the room and went downstairs to the hotel''s small gym. It wasn''t big, but it had enough for a quick workout. He spent the next thirty minutes exercising, feeling the sweat trickle down his skin as he tried to keep his mind focused. After his workout, the system notified him that he had completed the daily mission, and Lucas smiled as he opened the loot-boxes he had received from that day''s workout and the previous two days. However, his smile quickly disappeared as each box opened and brought nothing useful: just ordinary items that wouldn''t make much difference the next day, but could be useful later. "More of the same..." he muttered, returning to his room. After that, Lucas spent the rest of the day resting from the trip. The next morning, Lucas woke up early. The sky was bluer and the day sunnier. He stretched slowly, feeling the tension in his muscles relax as thoughts of the day''s test dominated his mind. After all, he was in Brighton, about to take part in a screening that could change his life. After a quick shower, Lucas put on comfortable clothes for the day and went downstairs to the hotel''s small restaurant. John was still asleep, snoring lightly in the bed next to him, which gave him the feeling of being on a solitary journey. It was good. He needed this moment to himself. In the restaurant, the smell of fresh coffee and freshly baked bread mixed with the air, creating a cozy atmosphere. He took a cup of coffee and a croissant and sat down at a table near the window. His mind was already wandering to what lay ahead, while his eyes roamed the damp, deserted streets of the city. With breakfast over and nerves building up in his chest, Lucas decided it was time to go. He picked up his cell phone, sent a message to his father telling him he was going for the test, activated the GPS and entered the address of Brighton''s training center. He preferred to walk to warm up his muscles, and it wasn''t far. The city streets were still quiet, the few pedestrians walking hurriedly, trying to shelter from the drizzle. Lucas walked absent-mindedly, following his GPS, but the CT was in a remote part of the city, surrounded by forest, so halfway there, the GPS signal started to get really bad. Lucas was so focused that he didn''t even notice a figure in front of him until it was too late. "Hey, watch where you''re going!" A sharp, angry voice took him by surprise, followed by a slight impact. Lucas felt his body slam into someone, his hands automatically grabbing the shoulders of the person in front of him to stop them both from falling. When he looked up, he saw a girl of medium height, blonde, with a long ponytail. She was wearing a school uniform, consisting of a navy blue checkered skirt and a white shirt with the emblem of some local institute. Her face was frowning in an expression of annoyance. "Sorry." said Lucas quickly, letting go of her shoulders and taking a step back. "I was distracted..." She narrowed her eyes, clearly irritated, but something in her expression softened slightly at the sight of him. Perhaps she noticed the slight foreign accent in his voice, or perhaps she realized that he really was lost. "You don''t look like you''re from around here," the girl commented, still with the tone of someone who wasn''t willing to be friendly, but curious enough to continue the conversation. "Are you looking for something?" Lucas scratched the back of his head awkwardly and took a quick look at the GPS before turning back to her. "Actually, yes. I''m trying to find Brighton''s training center. I have a test there today, but I''m not very familiar with the city." Her eyes widened slightly, and for a brief moment, the annoyance disappeared, replaced by genuine surprise. She examined him for a second, perhaps reconsidering her first impression. "A test? At Brighton CT?" She tilted her head slightly, her ponytail swaying. "Really?" Lucas nodded, a shy smile forming on his lips. He could see that her attitude was changing, even if it was almost imperceptibly. "Really." He gave a half-smile. "I don''t look like I''m from around here, do I?" She huffed, crossing her arms and looking away for a moment, as if she was internally debating what to do. Finally, she sighed and pointed ahead. "The training center is just a few blocks from here. Coincidentally, it''s practically next door to my school. I''ll show you the way." Lucas smiled in thanks, relieved that he wouldn''t have to get even more lost in the city. He followed her in silence, trying to keep pace with her steps while observing his surroundings. Brighton, with its maritime air, seemed to have a rustic and welcoming charm. The girl, although not exactly friendly, was an efficient guide. It didn''t take long for them to pass along a path until they finally reached a more open area. There, Brighton''s training center stood out with its modern design and spacious facilities, which contrasted with the simplicity of the surroundings. Read new chapters at empire "Here we are," she said, stopping in front of the main entrance. "Good luck with the test." Lucas looked at her with a slight smile, surprised that she had been so helpful after all. "Thanks... Oh, and sorry again for bumping into you." She shrugged, still keeping a certain emotional distance. "It was nothing. Just pay more attention next time." Lucas laughed lightly, sensing that, despite her harsh behavior, she wasn''t as unapproachable as she seemed. "That''s fine. And thanks for bringing me here. What''s your name, by the way?" She hesitated for a second, but answered with an air of indifference. "Chloe." "Thanks, Chloe. I owe you." He said with a nod and started walking towards the CT entrance. Chapter 67 66 - Brighton The distant sound of the wind passing through the trees was all Lucas Tanaka could hear as he admired the imposing Brighton CT just in front of him.The place was packed, with a large flow of people at the entrance. Youngsters with soccer bags slung over their shoulders and even a few anxious parents who seemed more nervous than their own children. It took Lucas a few steps before his nervousness was replaced by excitement once and for all. As he crossed the gates, Lucas was immediately struck by the magnitude of the crowd. Groups of young people crowded into the many fields, some wearing uniforms, others still in casual clothes. ''Everyone in this place has a common goal: to be noticed. Lucas thought. Still a little lost, Lucas tried to figure out where he should go. He looked around, but there were no clear signs indicating where he should go to register or confirm his invitation. It was then that he spotted a huge queue stretching along a side corridor. It snaked around one side of the building, with young people chatting and fiddling with their cell phones as they waited. ''That must be it.'' thought Lucas. Without wasting any time, he joined the queue. He glanced at his watch: there was just over an hour until the start of the selection, and the place was only getting fuller. The sound of voices grew louder as more young people crowded around the CT, like an anthill in full swing. ''I thought there would only be a few players invited. At least that''s what Otsuka made me understand...'' After a few minutes, the queue slowly moved forward, and he found himself next to a pile of tables with several sign-up sheets stacked on them. Behind one of the desks, sitting on a chair with wheels, was a girl who definitely stood out from the other employees. Her hair was dyed bright pink, tied in two buns on top of her head, and she wore a T-shirt with the logo of Brighton Hove Albion Football Club, the city''s team. The contrast between her hair and the blue sports uniform was striking, and her face, although young, bore the bored expression of someone who wasn''t enjoying doing it very much. "Next!" she said, without even lifting her eyes from the tablet in her hand. Lucas stepped forward. "Hi. I... I''m here for the test. I think I need to sign up?" He spoke in English. The pink-haired girl finally looked up at him, her extremely green eyes quickly assessing him. She typed something into her tablet and raised an eyebrow. "Name?" she asked bluntly. "Lucas Tanaka." She typed a few more things and, for a moment, seemed to concentrate on the screen. "Age?" "Sixteen." "Position?" S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. "Any position in the Attack." "Versatile striker..." She said as she wrote down exactly what she''d said on her tablet. "You don''t look like you''re from here. Were you invited by a Brighton FC official to this screening?" "Yes, by Mr. Otsuka. I''m from Japan." The girl looked surprised, although she hid it well. She typed something into the tablet, then slid a piece of paper towards Lucas. "Sign this. It''s a disclaimer. If you get hurt, you can''t complain." He took the pen and signed quickly. When she had finished, she handed him a badge with his name and a number printed on it. "Keep the badge with you while you''re not on the pitch and, after changing in one of the changing rooms, put the number on your chest. Both will be used for identification. You''re in group E and you''ll be called up when the trials start," she said, pointing to a field on the right. "Thanks," said Lucas, as he took the badge and hung it around his neck. He was about to turn and follow, when the girl added in a less formal tone. "Good luck there. They don''t take it easy on foreigners." Soon, the pink-haired girl was already calling out to the next in line, her voice sounding distant as he crossed the gravel path towards the CT fields. Brighton''s training center was huge, and Lucas felt that every step was taking him closer to what could be the defining moment of his life. In Japan, his name had already begun to gain prominence in school competitions, but this was another level. This was England, the home of modern soccer, and there, in that very place, he was surrounded by young people with the same dream. If he couldn''t win a place, he hoped he could at least copy someone''s skill. When he reached the changing room, Lucas pushed open the heavy steel door. Inside, the atmosphere was simple, with wooden benches lined up against the walls and metal hangers where the players hung their clothes. Gray lockers occupied one of the corners, where some of the youngsters were already storing their belongings. Lucas found an empty space on one of the benches and began to change. He removed his shirt and, as he did so, he heard whispers and sighs around him. At first, he thought it was just the natural nervousness of the other boys, but when he looked around, he saw that some of them were staring at him with expressions of surprise. "Dude, are you a professional athlete?" One of the boys, who was wearing a normal sports shirt, asked, his eyes wide. Lucas looked at him, a little confused, until he realized that the question wasn''t completely out of place. He realized that, over the last two weeks, his muscles had changed a lot. His abdomen was sculpted into firm chunks, his arms were more defined, and his shoulders were broad and well-marked. He had never consciously noticed this - training with the system had become so much a part of his routine that the changes were happening almost imperceptibly to him. "N-no... I guess I just trained a lot." Lucas replied, still surprised by the question. "I know. Well, let''s hope I''m as lucky one day." The boy said. Another boy approached, apparently curious. "Where did you train? You look like you came from a youth team." Lucas shook his head. "Japan. I played for a school team." "Wow, you''re from Japan? I thought there were only Europeans here..." The boy smiled, clearly impressed. "You speak English very well." "Thanks. I practiced a lot." Lucas smiled back, trying to keep the conversation light, despite the unwanted attention. ''How sociable people are around here...'' Lucas concentrated on finishing putting on the uniform Brighton had provided. He put on the new boots his parents had given him before the tournament and felt confident. Finally, he looked at the clock hanging on the wall. There was still a long time before the tests started, but he wanted to move quickly and find a ball to warm up in a corner. When Lucas came out of the changing room, he was greeted by a breath of cold, wet wind that made him shiver for a second. He looked around, the training pitches stretched vast ahead, each bounded by low fences and lampposts. Lucas still had some time before the tests began, but he wanted to warm up, loosen up his body and mind. He needed to be in top physical and mental shape. He walked towards the pitches, looking for a ball, something he could kick to start his warm-up. However, as his eyes roamed the grounds, he found no ball available. ''No problem. I can warm up without a ball.'' He moved a little away from the main flow of people, looking for a quieter space near one of the CT''s walls. There, he began to stretch his legs, first holding his right ankle and then bending his leg backwards, keeping his balance on one foot. Opening his eyes, Lucas began to make more dynamic movements, running in place for a few seconds. Then he began to do small jumps, raising his knees to his chest, alternating his legs, and then doing a few twists with his arms to loosen up his joints. As he warmed up, his ears picked up the growing sound of voices. The commotion in the CT was growing, and a crowd began to form near one of the fields. Lucas looked in the direction of the movement. Young people were gathering around the main field, where a small platform had been set up. In the center of it, a man in a dark blue sports suit, who looked to be in his thirties, was climbing the steps with a clipboard in one hand and a megaphone in the other. As he stepped onto the makeshift stage, he looked at the crowd for a moment before raising the loudspeaker. "All hands, please! In a few minutes, we''ll start the call for the physical tests. Each group will be directed to a specific field, where instructors and examiners will be accompanying you. You have already been separated into groups, as you know, and each group will be called in order to line up and begin the exercises." The man continued speaking, listing the activities the players would face during the test. "First, we''ll do a fitness assessment: running, endurance, flexibility. Then we''ll move on to ball tests: control, dribbling and finishing. Finally, we''ll have a series of short games where you can demonstrate your skills in real game situations. However, each of these stages will be eliminatory." At that moment, a buzz began to spread through the crowd of participants. Many of them questioned whether a fitness test could be eliminatory even before the ball tests. "To those of you who are questioning our examination, you can take your things and leave if you like. You''re all here because you wanted to be professional footballers, right? So an exemplary physique is the minimum." + === Player name: Lucas Tanaka Star Level: 4 - 0 SP/ 250 SP to the next level* Balance: 300 credits. === [Attributes] Speed: 30 Shooting: 34 Dribbling: 25 Defense: 18 Physical: 35 Passing: 33 === [Talents] Ball Control: 0 Endurance: 0 Strength: 0 Heading: 5 Scoring: 0 Vision: 0 Continue your journey on empire Positioning: 0 === Mystical Skills: ; ; ; ; ; ; === Soccer Skills: ; ; ; ; Chapter 68 67 - Physical Test Just as the man on stage had said, the groups began to be called after a few minutes. A monitor in a fluorescent vest appeared, checking a list in his hands."Everyone from Group E, come with me!" the monitor called out. As part of this group, Lucas followed him. The rest of the group approached, and he soon identified some other contestants. Next to him stood a tall young man, around 1.85m, with wavy brown hair and an athletic build. He looked about 19, maybe older. The boy glanced at Lucas, and a small, sideways smile appeared on his face before he quickly looked away. "My name is Daniel. I play as a defender. What about you?" he said casually. "Lucas. Striker," replied Lucas, who stood around 1.75m. S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Lucas knew this kind of interaction could be as much a friendly gesture as a subtle attempt to gauge the competition. Another player joined the group ¡ª a muscular blond young man, about 17 years old and roughly 5''10 (1.78 m). He began to roll his shoulders, as if accustomed to lengthy fitness sessions. His blue eyes scanned the field in a relaxed manner as he adjusted the collar of his shirt. "What are you looking at?" the boy shouted. "N-nothing. I was just curious about your position," Lucas stammered. "Left winger." Lucas thought of saying, ''Tall like that?'' But refrained. More boys joined them, and then the monitor began to instruct the first stage of the test. "You will run in intervals of five athletes at a time. The race will be 100 meters, and the time will be recorded. Who wants to start?" Lucas didn''t raise his right hand to volunteer as one of the firsts. He wanted to avoid the pressure of being watched by everyone, but he also didn''t want to be last, so he aimed to go second. Soon, the first five competitors were ready at the starting line, their legs crouched, preparing themselves like sprinters. Lucas watched intently as the signal was given, and they shot across the field. The sound of their feet hitting the grass and their panting breaths filled the air as they ran, their bodies leaning forward in search of every possible second to move ahead. Lucas mentally mapped out the competitors, trying to gauge his own chances. Of course, before he focused on the people in other groups, he had to worry about those on his own. The first five finished the race quickly, each breathing heavily, their faces flushed from the effort. The monitor wrote down the times without reacting, maintaining an impassive expression. Daniel, the defender next to Lucas, watched with his arms crossed, looking indifferent, but his eyes remained on everyone. "Next group!" It was Lucas''s turn now. He positioned himself on the starting line next to four other boys. One of them, with short blond hair, caught his eye. It wasn''t the same boy as before, but there seemed to be a lot of blondes here. "Ready?" asked the monitor. Lucas took a deep breath, feeling the tension in his shoulders as he lowered himself into the starting position. His focus narrowed to a straight line in front of him and the burst of strength he would need. The whistle blew. Lucas threw his body forward with all the strength he had. His feet dug into the grass with each step, and he felt himself moving faster than ever before. The field blurred around him, and although he knew he wasn''t the tallest or strongest there, the lightness of his body helped him glide along the ground. The wind whipped against his face, mixing with the adrenaline coursing through his veins. When Lucas crossed the finish line, his breathing was rapid, but controlled. He glanced over and saw that the blond boy, named Raphael, had finished just behind him. Lucas had come in first. However, the others weren''t far behind. "Good time," Raphael said, raising his eyebrows as he took a deep breath. Surprisingly, his tone conveyed recognition rather than arrogance. "You run fast." "Thanks," Lucas replied, wiping the sweat from his forehead with the back of his hand. The monitor consulted his clipboard, checking the times with his usual impassive expression. Daniel, the defender with whom Lucas had exchanged a few words earlier, was now ready for his turn. He stretched again, the muscles in his arm visibly tightening under his tanned skin. Daniel appeared calm, even casual, but Lucas sensed the competitiveness beneath the surface. The boy had the physique of a defender who knew how to use his body on the pitch. After the others finished, it was time for the next test. "Let''s begin the endurance test. Three complete laps around the pitch. Anyone who steps out of line loses points. You''ll be monitored the whole way." Three laps were nothing out of the ordinary, but Lucas knew that accumulated wear and tear would be an important factor. The test wasn''t just about speed; it was about who could maintain the pace and endurance under pressure. "Everyone ready? Start!" the monitor shouted, and the first movements echoed across the field. Lucas began at a controlled pace. He didn''t want to exhaust his energy in the first few laps. He watched Daniel ahead, who had a strong, determined stride, maintaining a steady speed. Next to him, Raphael ran with a lightness that belied his size, his eyes fixed ahead with determination. In the first third of the race, the groups began to distance themselves. Some of the more impetuous runners were already increasing their speed, while others, like Lucas, maintained a steady pace, and some couldn''t keep a good speed and began to slow down. Experience new tales on empire Lucas heard the sound of heavy breathing from another competitor just behind him. He turned his head slightly and saw a shorter boy with close-cropped black hair. The boy''s name was Rodriguez, as Lucas heard him introducing himself to the other guys. Gradually, Lucas felt the effects of fatigue beginning to set in, but he controlled his breathing and maintained his focus. When he completed the second lap, he noticed he was side by side with Daniel. The defender had lost a little pace. "Are you going to keep up this pace?" Daniel asked with a half-smile. "I''ll try," Lucas replied. The boy, who had earlier identified himself as a left-winger, had moved slightly ahead. He possessed an impressive running style, as if his height and muscles weren''t a burden. As the third lap approached, the real test of endurance began. "Last lap!" the monitor''s voice rang out across the field. Lucas increased his pace. When he crossed the finish line, his lungs burned, but he managed to control his breath. He came in second, just behind the left-winger. Lucas was exhausted, but satisfied. He bent over slightly, resting his hands on his knees for a moment. The monitor waited for everyone to finish before starting to take notes. The competitors gathered, some more fatigued than others, as they awaited the next instructions. Daniel approached Lucas, breathing heavily, and said, "You''ve got lungs, man. No wonder you came in first." He ran a hand through his damp hair and glanced at the boy who had beaten them ¡ª the left-winger. The monitor then raised his clipboard, drawing everyone''s attention once again. "Congratulations to everyone who completed the endurance test. You showed determination and pace, but the next test will be about something different. We''ll assess your flexibility. You''ll be divided into pairs to stretch with partners. Remember, this is a test of body control, so don''t rush and perform everything accurately." Lucas looked around, waiting to see who his partner would be. Daniel ended up paired with a taller, thinner boy, while Lucas was paired with Raphael, the left-winger who had won the race. Raphael, with his serious demeanor and imposing posture, didn''t seem like the type who would strike up a conversation, but Lucas didn''t let that intimidate him and invited him to be his partner. After a few minutes of paired stretching, the players were instructed to perform a series of static stretches on their own. As the last flexibility exercise concluded, the monitor began gathering the players together. "Now, let''s start calling those who passed the three stages. First name¡­ Daniel Riber." The 6''2 (1.88 m)" defender stepped forward, a slight smile on his face. He nodded discreetly to Lucas, as if to say: see you at the next stage. "Raphael Portiolli." The names continued to be called, one by one, until finally¡­ "Lucas Tanaka." He could hardly believe for a moment that he had overcome the first hurdle. Other names were called after him, like Mark''s. "That''s all of them. Brighton''s youth team requires these physical performances to be disqualifying because you''ll face long, grueling seasons. When you come here, you''re just a few steps away from becoming a professional. Anyway, congratulations to those who made it through, and to those who didn''t, please keep this feeling and return even stronger at the next trial." Chapter 69 68 - Two-versus-two "Now that we''ve completed the physical tests, it''s time to see what you can really do with the ball. If you want to play for Brighton, you not only need to have a lung, but also know how to attack, defend, and, of course, understand the game."The monitor paused as the players looked at each other. "You''ll be divided into smaller groups for two-on-two matches. Each match will be played on a reduced pitch with smaller goals. You need to demonstrate individual skills, positioning, and, above all, teamwork. This test will tell you a lot about your ability to adapt to different situations in the real game. So do your best." A black-haired boy with glasses, who seemed to be still catching his breath from the endurance run, raised his hand hesitantly. His glasses slipped slightly down his nose due to sweat, and he adjusted them before asking: "Excuse me, sir, but weren''t the matches against each other only supposed to be at the end?" He looked genuinely confused, perhaps even a little worried by the sudden change of plans. The monitor stared at him for a brief moment, without changing his impassive expression, and replied with cool calm: S§×ar?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. "No. That''s correct. With this two-versus-two test, we want to see how your skills perform under pressure from now on. Do you have a problem with that?" Read the latest on empire The boy hesitated for a moment, his eyes searching for some silent support among the other players, but found nothing but serious, focused faces. He shook his head quickly and muttered: "No, sir." The monitor, satisfied with the absence of further questioning, took a step back and began organizing the pairs. He walked down the line of players, watching each one carefully, before starting to divide up the pairs. "Daniel and Mark." he said, pointing to the two burly players who had stood out in the fitness tests. Mark was a left-winger, and Daniel was a defender. It was a good combination for a two-on-two test because they had attacking and defensive potential. "Lucas and Raphael." continued the monitor, and Lucas''s stomach clenched slightly. He wasn''t upset about being paired with Raphael, the boy who had won the endurance race. The left-winger had an impressive physique, but Raphael had yet to show much personality beyond his irritable posture. Raphael only gave a brief nod in Luca''s direction. Of course, he respected Lucas for coming out on top in all the physical tests. The other pairs were organized, but the first five-minute match would be between the first two chosen pairs. Whoever scored the most goals would win. However, they knew that it would guarantee their places in the final phase. The monitor approached Lucas and Raphael, handing them a ball for each court. Lucas took the ball with a feeling of electricity running through his body. This was the moment he had been waiting for ¡ª the chance to show that he could do more than run. He looked at Raphael, who was already positioning himself, and realized that the boy was focused on the ball, his eyes alert and predatory. "Do you play more up front or in the middle?" Raphael asked suddenly, taking Lucas by surprise. "I can play any position in attack, but you''re a left-winger, right? I want to get the most out of you, so I''ll be further back this time," Lucas replied with a cold tone as he looked at his opponents. Raphael frowned. "Get the most out of me?" "Yes. You have a strong physique, so their striker won''t be able to get past you to attack without help, so he''ll move out of the way of the goal. That''s where I come in." "Tsk! Whatever. Just pass the ball to me." As soon as the monitor blew the whistle, Lucas passed the ball to Raphael, who promptly headed it down the sideline. The grass under his feet was soft, but there was still morning moisture on the leaves, which made the ball slide faster than expected. Raphael, with his impressive speed, kept control. Mark, sensing the left-winger''s intention, went to meet him, forcing Raphael to move away from the sideline and bring the ball into the center. Lucas noticed that Daniel was already backing off, forming a line of defense right in front of the small goal. He knew that if Raphael tried a simple dribble, Mark''s physical strength could end the move in seconds. So Lucas positioned himself in the center of the small field, offering a passing option. Raphael glanced up, his eyes briefly undecided. In a matter of seconds, he had to decide: go it alone or rely on the pass. Mark was approaching fast, almost colliding with Raphael, and it was now or never. Raphael rolled the ball with the side of his left foot, a dry, precise pass that found Lucas in the middle of the pitch. Lucas already had his body positioned for control, received the ball with a light touch, and turned quickly towards the goal. Daniel, attentive, took two steps forward to close the angle. Lucas knew he couldn''t waste any time; if he waited any longer, Mark would already be back to help with the marking. Lucas made a quick decision. He made a feint using , as if he was going to move forward, but instead gave a heel pass to Raphael, who had run diagonally, getting rid of Mark. "Go!" Lucas shouted. Raphael had expected the move. With a subtle touch, he controlled the ball and prepared to shoot. The distance was short, but Daniel was already in front, ready to block the shot. Raphael, in a quick move, lifted the ball slightly with his left foot, trying to hook it over the defender, but the touch was a little stronger than he expected. The ball went higher than necessary, and Daniel stretched out his foot to intercept it. Lucas saw the opportunity. He was in constant motion, always waiting for a gap. As soon as the ball bounced off Daniel''s foot, rising a few centimeters in the air, Lucas accelerated into the area. His body reacted by instinct, and he leapt, using