The buzz around Seidou was palpable. Even after the first-year exhibition game, the focus shifted to something much bigger — the upcoming interhigh tournament.
Inashiro's presence loomed in the background.
Although there wasn't a direct practice match with Inashiro at this point in the story, the rivalry was starting to heat up.
Kenji had heard the name Narumiya Mei on the lips of almost every player, coach, and fan. He was the ace of Inashiro, and his reputation for breaking batters was nothing short of legendary.
Kenji couldn't help but feel the weight of that name, even if they hadn't crossed paths yet.
Days passed, and the pressure of the upcoming games mounted. The Seidou team was gearing up for their interhigh matchups, with every player pushing themselves harder in training.
Furuya, Sawamura, and the others were giving it their all. As the games approached, Coach Kataoka began narrowing down the starting lineup for the first official match, and the competition for spots was fierce.
But through it all, Kenji continued to make his mark.
He was on track to become a crucial member of the team. His swing had only gotten sharper, and his reflexes even faster. Miyuki, ever the strategic mastermind, took a special interest in Kenji, constantly evaluating his potential.
One afternoon, after an intense training session, Kenji found himself alone on the field again. The sun was beginning to set, casting long shadows across the diamond. He was practicing his batting once more, feeling the weight of his resolve as he swung at pitch after pitch.
But someone was watching him.
Miyuki.
He had been observing Kenji's practice for some time now, a contemplative expression on his face.
Kenji noticed him and stopped.
Miyuki finally approached, his usual confident smirk replaced with something more thoughtful.
"You've been impressing everyone, Takahashi."
Kenji gave him a small nod but didn't say anything.
"I don't need praise. Just let me play."
Miyuki chuckled.
"That's exactly why you'll be a problem for the other teams. But it's not enough just to have talent. You need to get inside their heads — make them doubt themselves before they even step onto the field."
Kenji took a deep breath, wiping the sweat off his forehead.
"I don't need mind games. I'll let my bat speak for me."
Miyuki's smirk returned.
"I like that. But don't forget — even in this team, there's someone who won't let you have it easy. It's not just about your strength."
Kenji's eyes sharpened, sensing the unspoken challenge.
Miyuki continued, his gaze hardening.
"Narumiya Mei. He's not the type to let anyone rise without a fight. You'll meet him soon enough, and when you do, I hope you're ready."
Kenji stood in the quiet of the field, thinking about Miyuki's words. Narumiya Mei. He had heard the name in passing, but now it felt real. The rivalry had already begun.
As Seidou prepared for their upcoming games, the tension in the air was thick. Inashiro and other powerhouse teams were on the horizon. Kenji knew he would have to face Narumiya Mei eventually. And when that day came, he would make sure he was ready.