Chapter 28: Chapter 28 : Freedom!
Naruhaya scored again, increasing Team Z's tally to 5-0.
Team V never imagined this game would turn out this way. It was a humiliating score, and there wasn't much time left in the match. Making a comeback now was nearly impossible.
Isagi congratulated Naruhaya for scoring the goal. He was very surprised by Naruhaya's growth and felt that Naruhaya was even better than the original Isagi at this stage of Blue Lock, which was also due to his own influence.
"Reo, let's score six goals and win this game. That Isagi isn't defending anymore. Give me the ball, and I'll make it count"
As Reo faced the biggest crisis of his life, he encountered defeat for the first time. Nagi stepped up with the ball in hand and placed it in the middle of the field.
Reo didn't believe it was possible to win with so little time remaining but Nagi's determination to win was something he experienced in this match, He wanted to let Nagi grow this way.
He nodded at Nagi, who then kicked the ball towards him, starting the game.
Reo charged forward with the ball at his feet, his determination shining through as he dribbled aggressively down the field. With deft footwork, he maneuvered past Kira, leaving him momentarily bewildered. As he closed in on the goal, he spotted Nagi in a prime position and made a swift, precise pass, just as he found himself face-to-face with Isagi, ready to face the next challenge.
At this stage, it was clear to everyone that Isagi was the undeniable cornerstone of Team Z. Reo, filled with a mix of admiration and frustration, understood that he could no longer gamble with his own prospects. The truth settled heavily on him: Isagi was simply the superior player. With this realization, Reo resolved to abandon any thoughts of challenging Isagi in one-on-one matches, fully aware that he risked humiliation in trying to compete against such formidable talent.
Nagi expertly received the ball at his feet, instantly drawing the attention of his opponents. As he began his smooth dribble, Raichi quickly closed the distance, eager to steal the ball away. However, Nagi's mesmerizing touches left Raichi grasping at air, unable to predict his next move. With a burst of speed, Nagi deftly maneuvered past defenders, executing a flawless run that brought him one-on-one with the goal.
Meanwhile, Chigiri, stationed as a left back, made a determined sprint across the field to take up a position in the center defense on the right side. However, he found himself unable to contain the dazzling display of skill that had awakened the monster of curiosity in Nagi, who was now fully immersed in the game.
Isagi sprinted across the field, his legs pumping with effort, but he found it impossible to catch up to the ball, which zipped past him like a lightning bolt. Unlike Loki, who had an uncanny ability to perform incredible feats on the pitch, With a swift and precise motion, Nagi struck the ball, sending it soaring toward the net. Gagamaru, known for his remarkable reaction speed, lunged desperately to intercept it, but even he couldn't thwart Nagi's expertly executed shot as it hit the back of the net with a satisfying thud.
"Good Job!, Nagi!"
Reo's voice echoed from the back of the field as he congratulated Nagi, but soon a wave of embarrassment washed over him. His team had managed to score just one goal against Team Z, and it stung even more knowing that they accomplished this feat after their top defender had already left the game. Despite the circumstances, the single goal remained a bright spot in an otherwise lackluster match.
The remarkable goal was achieved entirely due to Nagi's outstanding dribbling abilities. It was a breathtaking display of skill that completely surprised the opponents.
During the first half of the match, Nagi had tried to dribble the ball but faced difficulties, losing possession far too quickly. Frustration began to mount as the minutes ticked by and the threat of defeat loomed closer. This mounting pressure, however, became a catalyst for him; it ignited a fierce determination within Nagi. With renewed focus and passion, he set out to change the course of the game, resolved to push his limits, and gave everything he had to secure victory for his team.
Chigiri and Isagi ran till the end to stop that Goal but it didn't work, Though it didn't bother Team Z, It was going to happen sooner or later since they had changed their playing format completely.
The match between Team Z and Team V reached a gripping climax as the time dwindled down. Both teams relentlessly pressed forward, each struggling to thwart the other's offensive maneuvers throughout the remainder of the game.
Team Z adopted a sophisticated and intricate strategy that aligned perfectly with the principles of Blue Lock, allowing them to execute advanced plays and maintain an edge. In contrast, Team V focused on a more coordinated approach, skillfully sidestepping direct confrontations with formidable opponents like Isagi and Raichi. This tactical avoidance played a pivotal role in their performance, enabling them to net an impressive total of 6 goals by the end of the match.
However, despite Team V's notable efforts, the outcome remained unchanged, as Team Z emerged victorious with a commanding score of 11-6. Isagi demonstrated exceptional skill and composure throughout the game, capitalizing on every opportunity and showing an overwhelming dominance that left Team V scrambling to keep up. His ability to anticipate plays and execute goals effectively ensured that not a single chance was wasted, reinforcing Team Z's triumph in this intense battle.
He scored an astounding six goals in the second half, seizing every opportunity and demonstrating unparalleled determination. His relentless drive and commitment to the game left no room for his teammates, as he fully immersed himself in the game for the victory.
Team V trudged off the pitch, their shoulders slumped and faces downcast, reflecting the weight of their defeat. In stark contrast, Team Z burst from the building, exuberant and radiant with joy. They celebrated a 'hard-fought' victory, having overcome the strongest team in the league, and proudly maintained their unbeaten status until the final whistle. Cheers and laughter echoed around them as they relished their triumph, the thrill of conquest brightening their spirits.
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Inside Ego's Den
"Each attack done by Team Z in this game was incredible, Isagi Yoichi's development as a player is nothing short of extraordinary; his skills and understanding of the game have advanced at an astonishing rate"
Anri was holding a tablet in her hand, taking note of the abilities and stats of the players in Blue Lock. Since Isagi's arrival at Blue Lock, she had been confused by the sudden changes in his rank. However, after watching the last match he played in the tournament, she began to understand the reasoning behind his ranking. Still, she couldn't grasp the rapid development of Isagi's talent.
Ego, despite his own lack of understanding, found himself reveling in the moment. Isagi's actions during the second half of the game embodied the very spirit he had envisioned for the players he nurtured at Blue Lock. This mindset—intense, relentless, and daring—was precisely what he sought to cultivate in each individual athlete. As he observed Isagi's performance, it became clear that the young player already possessed this tenacity. It was a quality that radiated from him, spreading like wildfire and inspiring those around him to adopt the same fierce determination.
Isagi played a pivotal role in transforming the entire team's performance, elevating their skills to new heights. His guidance and keen insights provided the necessary boost for each player, particularly for someone like Naruhaya. Without Isagi's intervention and support, Naruhaya likely wouldn't have experienced such remarkable growth in his abilities.
His anticipation grew as he thought about the remarkable skills Isagi Yoichi would showcase in the upcoming selection of Blue Lock, envisioning the intensity and creativity that characterized his play.
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Every member of Team Z began celebrating their victory, but the festivities were short-lived as fatigue quickly set in for everyone. Isagi was the only exception; he felt ready to continue if given the chance.
That night, Isagi decided not to train and opted to rest instead.
The next day, while everyone in Blue Lock was still asleep, the intercom started ringing in their room in an attempt to wake them up.
Everyone woke up, and in the next moment, Ego appeared on the screen. He started by reminding them that being the best in the Lowest-wing means nothing and that they are still the worst.
'His toxicity never diminishes'
He explained that they would be training until he decided to stop. After that, their long-anticipated second selection would begin.
Upon hearing the announcement, a palpable shift swept through the group. Each person grasped the weight of the situation and began the arduous task of mentally gearing up for the grueling training that lay ahead. Faces hardened with determination, while others exchanged anxious glances, understanding that they were on the brink of an intense and challenging journey. Silence enveloped them, punctuated only by the quiet rustle of gear being gathered and the soft sounds of deep breaths as they steeled themselves for the trial they were about to face.
Isagi, after finishing his training, headed directly to the shower. The warm water cascaded over him as he reflected on the changes in his body. Although the progress was noticeably less dramatic compared to his initial days of training, he could still sense the subtle improvements. For now, pushing his strength training further might not be the wisest option. He was beginning to shape a physique more befitting an adult athlete, but he knew there was still a long journey ahead to reach his full potential.
It was worrying and needed to be stopped, He had a risky approach in his mind and He didn't feel any fear in using it.
Isagi left the shower after putting on his gear. He walked toward the outside of the training room, where a small intercom connected the players to Ego or Anri.
Isagi got there and clicked the button, Waiting for someone to pickup.
"...Is there some problem?, Isagi Yoichi"
On the other end, Isagi heard a feminine voice which he heard at the entrance of Blue Lock, Anri.
"Hello Miss Anri, I wish to speak to Ego, please"
Isagi spoke softly and respectfully, He was aware of how she was subjected to daily verbal abuse by Ego, a situation that weighed heavily on her gentle nature. Isagi's heart ached for her, and he resolved not to add any further pain to her already burdened spirit.
"Ah, Give me a minute....."
"What is it? It better be important"
Anri after asking permission from Ego put the call on speaker, While Ego used the mic to have this unpleasant talk with Isagi.
"I don't want to follow the training program you se-"
"Didn't ask for your opinion, You do as I say-"
Ego interrupted Isagi before he could finish and, with an irritated tone, gave the order. He ended the call without waiting for Isagi's response.
'...As expected'
Isagi sighed helplessly. He knew how Ego would react, and as soon as the call ended, he clicked the intercom button again.
"How about I make you an offer"
This time, Isagi paid attention to the intercom, and when the second call connected, he spoke without giving Ego a chance to respond.
"...What can a brat like you offer to me?"
Ego was irritated by Isagi's behavior, and Anri was becoming anxious as well. Isagi was playing with fire by attempting to call back and now making an offer.
"If you let me train in my own accord, I promise not to tell anyone in this building about all the 5 Wings being Wing-5 only"
Isagi played his card, shocking Anri. She was aware of how Ego manipulated the players' minds in Blue Lock to help them grow, but she didn't expect anyone to doubt him or to actually blackmail him about it.
Ego looked at the screen where Isagi was leaning on the wall while talking to him in a serious tone, Not showing much expression.
"Why do you think that way?"
"I don't need to think about this deeply; I just need to say it to those in this Wing, and it will plant a seed of doubt. Over time, that seed will grow, and they will start to contemplate it. Once this happens, it will hinder their development because they will believe it will be easy. Your mind games won't work on them later, either"
Isagi didn't mean to insult Ego; he simply wanted to point out the flaws he could create in his program. Ego wasn't taking this criticism well and felt the urge to retaliate. However, what Isagi was asking for in exchange for his silence wasn't unreasonable.
He also knew Isagi was one of the most hardworking players in Blue Lock, having watched him train more than anyone else, which piqued his interest.
"I will accept that offer. However, before I do, please explain your reasoning for going to such extremes, or I will expel you from Blue Lock. If that happens, you will also lose the right to represent Japan."
Although Isagi managed to confuse Ego slightly, taking control of the situation was another matter—Ego's pride wouldn't allow that.
"I've my own way of training and I don't wish to follow your schedule of training, That's it"
Isagi remained unyielding and, after explaining his stance, ended the call on Ego this time.
He wasn't worried about getting expelled either, Although that would be too much of a mess for him to handle, Still, he wasn't scared of it.
He could always change his nationality and achieve the same level of skill in another country, then return to Blue Lock for the NEL. However, this would be much harder than staying in Blue Lock, and it wouldn't provide the same exciting experience either.
Anri's anxiety reached its limit. She could see Ego's irritation visible on his face. Ego normally wasn't the one to back down, but this time he was considering it.
Isagi was one of the exceptional players in Blue Lock, and he could be a valuable asset for the growth of other members. However, Ego was also a petty individual who was planning to target Isagi in some way later on.
As he was thinking of ways to put pressure on Isagi, The intercom started ringing again, He looked at the screen and saw Isagi standing near the speaker again.
"I'm using my remaining points to leave Blue Lock for a day"
Isagi again kept close attention to the ring and spoke quickly, Not giving Ego any chance to speak, and cut the call as well.
Isagi was amused by playing with Ego, Although he was hoping to see Ego's face right now.
Isagi didn't linger and decided to exchange his points to take a day off from the Blue Lock building. After sharing a few words with his teammates, he noticed that Raichi was visibly frustrated by the news. Isagi was the only one getting a day off, while everyone else would be working tirelessly in training.
Isagi didn't wait long to hear Raichi complain, so he left the building. He decided to skip strength training and focus on refining his body to become more flexible.
'Ah, The sunlight after so many days feels great,...Guess I'm going home'
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[A/N]: Hi Readers!
I'm increasing the Chapter length from now on, The updates will be the same way-
Random!
I write whenever I'm free from College and Studies, So I hope you stay patient with this Author
I'm currently serializing Another Book, It's of the Walking Dead, Please check it out as well
Hope you enjoyed this Chapter as well.