Isagi

The training pitch was practically empty. The sound of balls hitting the net broke the afternoon silence.

Isagi had finished his training a few minutes ago, but he was still there, watching the plays recorded on his phone screen.

"Not again..." he muttered, frowning.

A familiar voice sounded behind her.

—Are you still trying to figure out how to beat me?

Isagi slowly looked up. Michelle Kaiser was leaning against the entrance to the field, with a confident expression.

"I don't need to figure out how to surpass you," Isagi replied. "I'm just looking for your mistakes."

Kaiser let out a small laugh.

—Then you're going to need a lot of time.

Before Isagi could respond, the stadium's loudspeaker came on.

—Kaiser. Isagi. They'll play together tomorrow.

Both remained silent.

Isagi narrowed his eyes.

—Together?

"Looks like we'll have to put up with each other," Kaiser said, crossing his arms.

Isagi put his phone away.

—Don't get confused. I don't intend to play to make you shine.

Kaiser smiled slightly.

—Perfect. I don't plan to play to make you shine either.

For the first time, neither of them looked away.

"Then…" Isagi said, "we'll see who ends up keeping up with whom."