"This new ability… it's way too strong!"
"With this move, I might even be able to hold my own against national-level players."
"Except for my low five-dimension stats, I should already have the comprehensive strength to compete at that level."
Ryohei Rin narrowed his eyes, calmly evaluating himself.
With his [Visual Guidance], he could vanish from his opponent's sight. Then, by suddenly unleashing a quick and powerful accelerated return, he had a finishing move that could decide a match in an instant.
In his mind, this combination was flawless.
"No solution at all."
"System. Show me my personal dashboard."
At his command, a glowing panel appeared before him.
[Host: Ryohei Rin (12 years old)]
[Speed: 2 | Strength: 2 | Stamina: 2 | Skill: 3 | Precision: 5]
[Total: 14]
[Character Template: Kuroko Tetsuya – 58%]
[Misdirection – Visual Guidance]
By reducing one's presence on the court, the opponent's attention is unconsciously drawn away, creating the illusion of disappearance. Effective for about 40 minutes before losing effect.
[Accelerated Return]
Using the racket to push the ball in a flat, sharp stroke. The return travels faster and heavier than normal.
[Accelerated Return – Spiral Rotation]
Like the spin of a bullet, the twisting motion channels extra force into the ball, increasing speed, penetration, and stability. Can deflect an opponent's racket and cause a paralyzing shock on contact. Twice as fast and powerful as a normal accelerated return.
[Support Points: 0]
[Comprehensive Evaluation: Kanto Level]
"Just as I thought," Ryohei muttered. "Unlocking new abilities also raises my five-dimension stats. My skill went from 2 to 3 thanks to the Spiral Return."
"But…" His gaze lingered on the evaluation.
"Kanto class? System, are you serious? With misdirection and an enhanced accelerated return, who in the Kanto region could beat me?"
[Ding! Please do not question the system's evaluation.]
[Even if the host has abilities capable of contending with national-level players, there remain severe weaknesses. A skilled opponent could exploit these weaknesses and defeat you.]
"Weaknesses?"
Ryohei blinked, then realized.
Of course. His offense might be nearly unstoppable—but defense was another matter.
With only 2 points in speed, strength, and stamina, his baseline stats were dangerously low. If his opponent targeted his endurance, he could collapse before long. Worse still, a powerful server could crush him with ace after ace, and he wouldn't even be able to return.
"…I really did overlook that."
Ding-ling-ling!
Ding-ling-ling!
The bell rang, signaling the end of class.
After reviewing his stats, Ryohei had already made his decision.
Training.
That was the only way forward. No tricks, no shortcuts—just fundamental, brutal training. If he could close the gap in physical ability, then stepping into the national level wouldn't be a dream.
Lunch Break – Hyotei Tennis Courts
After a quick meal in the cafeteria, Ryohei returned to the quasi-regular courts. Having defeated Taki Haginosuke, he had automatically inherited Taki's spot as the number one among the quasi-regulars. That also meant Taki's private court now belonged to him—along with Taki himself, who was bound by their bet to serve as his ball boy.
"Ah…"
"I thought you wouldn't show up today."
Taki's expression stiffened when he saw Ryohei. He walked over, forcing a nod.
"…"
"Since I've joined Hyotei's tennis club, of course I'm here to train," Ryohei said with a small laugh, waving a hand.
The two exchanged looks, silence hanging between them.
Ryohei, not much of a talker, had no intention of prolonging the exchange. Adjusting the tennis bag on his back, he started walking toward the courts.
But Taki's curiosity got the better of him. He followed after, blurting out:
"Training? If it's training, shouldn't you go to Coach Sakaki Tarō?"
"Coach Sakaki? Why would I?"
"Why else? Training! Sakaki-sensei arranges the daily program for the whole Hyotei club. His regimen is recognized as one of the most professional in the country."
"…Oh." Ryohei nodded, as calm as ever.
"Wait—Rin, you idiot, do you get what I'm saying?" Taki grew more animated. "Coach Sakaki's program is strict, but it's why Hyotei produces so many strong players! Following his routine will give you results a hundred times better than anything you make up on your own!"
But Ryohei remained unmoved.
He knew exactly what Sakaki's training entailed—strict, comprehensive, and effective. For an all-rounder, it was perfect. But for him, with his glaring weaknesses, such general training wouldn't solve the problem fast enough.
He needed focused growth.
"Coach Sakaki's program isn't suitable for me," Ryohei said flatly.
The words only made Taki more agitated.
"Not suitable?!"
Impossible. The very reason Hyotei had risen to national prominence was Sakaki Tarō's system. Every member who had followed it had grown tremendously—including himself, over two years.
And yet Ryohei Rin dared to say it wasn't enough for him?