Since Fujimoto's purchase pushes the total beyond ten thousand, the pressure that once seeps into every corner of the gym finally loosens. The number is no longer haunting the office walls.
With three weeks left before the weigh-in, Ryoma's world contracts to something simpler and far more unforgiving, his conditioning.
He stands near the ring as Hiroshi adjusts the timer on his wristwatch. The assistant coach doesn't carry Nakahara's authority, but in moments like this, he carries the tempo.
"Today we test endurance under deficit," Hiroshi says. "No hero pace. Stay efficient."
Ryoma nods and the jump rope begins; steady rhythm, minimal lift, conserving energy.
Sweat forms quickly, sliding down a frame that has visibly thinned over the past week. His cheekbones are sharper now, but his eyes remain steady.
