The sun barely peeked over the horizon, yet the EOS training ground was already alive with energy. Today was the final day before the clash against the World 11, and every player was sharpening their weapons for war.
The EOS Top 11 stood in a circle, each one carrying an intensity that hadn't been there before. Seeing the World 11 in person had only solidified their determination.
Mori crossed his arms, his gaze sharp. "We're not just going to play against them—we're going to crush them."
Renji smirked, his mind already racing with possibilities. "They may be the best in the world right now… but that just means we have the biggest opportunity to prove we belong there."
The air was thick with competition. Each player had something to prove.
Kaizen, watching from a distance with the old legends, chuckled. "They're fired up," he said to Nakamura.
"They should be," Nakamura replied. "If they hold back now, they'll never reach the next level."
Kaizen turned to the EOS players. "Alright, listen up! This is the final day of training, so whatever you've been working on, perfect it now! There won't be a second chance tomorrow."
No one needed to be told twice.
Day Training – Specialized Regimens
Each player focused on refining their individual strengths, using their final day wisely.
Mori vs. Amagi – The two most dangerous forwards clashed repeatedly in intense 1v1 drills, pushing each other's limits. Mori's confidence and raw power against Amagi's unpredictable, manipulative playstyle.
Renji's New Footwork – Under Kobayashi's watchful eye, Renji trained relentlessly, modifying his Specter Drive and Phantom Step into something completely original—an evolved version that blurred his presence even further.
Riku Saionji's Control – Training with Ryohei Sakamoto, Riku refined his playmaking, learning how to manipulate the entire field, dictating the game's rhythm against even the best defenders.
Tetsuya Aikawa's Awakening – Frustrated at his lack of goals, Aikawa unleashed an aggressive, all-or-nothing striker style, developing a new finishing technique that prioritized raw, unstoppable power.
Yuto Kisaragi's Speed Duel – Facing off against Nakamura, the fastest player among the old legends, Kisaragi was forced to refine his acceleration and reaction time to the absolute limit.
Everyone was evolving. Everyone.
Night Training – The Final Test
As night fell, only one player remained on the field—Renji Kurogami.
His breath was ragged, his muscles burned, but his eyes were still sharp.
"You're still here?" a voice called out.
Renji turned to see Seiji Nakamura and Eiji Kobayashi walking toward him.
"We figured you'd push yourself like this," Kobayashi smirked. "So we're here to make sure it's worth it."
Nakamura cracked his knuckles. "One last session, Renji. No holding back. Show us how much you've evolved."
Renji's lips curled into a grin. "Then let's go."
The three disappeared into the shadows of the field, the sound of rapid footsteps and clashing wills echoing in the night.
Tomorrow, they would face the best in the world.
And they would be ready.
To be continue...