As Kai was finishing up with his locker, a clatter of footsteps echoed through the hallway, growing louder as they approached. The door swung open, revealing a woman in a white lab coat, her expression a mix of concern and irritation. She was tall and carried an authoritative presence. Her features were sharp, with piercing eyes that quickly assessed the scene before her.
The woman's gaze fell on Tetsuya, who was sprawled on the floor, unconscious and battered. She raised an eyebrow, her eyes narrowing slightly as she approached him. Her movements were purposeful and confident, indicating she was accustomed to handling situations like this.
"Looks like you've really made a mess of things," she said, her voice firm yet calm. As she bent down to check Tetsuya's condition, her large chest was unmistakably noticeable, though she seemed oblivious to any discomfort it might cause others.
Kai glanced at her with mild curiosity. "And you are?"
"Dr. Aiko Nishida," she replied without looking up, her hands moving deftly as she examined Tetsuya. "I'm one of the medical staff here. I handle cases like this—people who overestimate their strength and end up needing a little help."
She finished her assessment and straightened up, casting a critical eye over Kai. "I see you've had quite a fight. Impressive moves, by the way. Not everyone can take down someone like Tetsuya and walk away with minimal damage."
Kai offered a small, wry smile. "He was strong, but I've had my fair share of fights. So, what happens next?"
Dr. Nishida adjusted her coat with a practiced flick of her wrist. "Tetsuya will be taken to the medical facility for treatment. We'll make sure he's patched up and ready to continue, if he decides to."
She met Kai's gaze, her eyes steady and unflinching. "As for you, the tournament is still ongoing, and there are more challenges ahead. You're likely to face opponents who are even stronger and more skilled than Tetsuya."
Kai raised an eyebrow, his interest piqued. "What kind of opponents are we talking about?"
Dr. Nishida's expression grew serious. "The tournament's structure is designed to test every aspect of a fighter's abilities. You've seen the brawns, now get ready for the brains, the strategists, and the specialists. Each stage will introduce a new level of difficulty. Some fighters have techniques that can neutralize your energy attacks or exploit your weaknesses."
Kai nodded, taking in her words. "And what about you? What's your role in all this?"
Dr. Nishida glanced at Tetsuya, then back at Kai. "I'm here to ensure that fighters like you don't push themselves beyond their limits and end up seriously injured. While I'm not directly involved in the tournament fights, my job is to maintain the balance between pushing yourself and staying in one piece."
Kai appreciated her straightforwardness. "Sounds like a crucial role. I'm looking forward to the next round, whatever it brings."
Dr. Nishida gave him a nod of approval. "Good. Stay focused and don't let your guard down. This tournament is as much about endurance and strategy as it is about strength. I'm sure you'll do well, but remember—underestimating your opponents could be your downfall."
With that, Dr. Nishida motioned for a couple of medical staff to assist her in transporting Tetsuya. As they carried him away, she gave Kai a final, assessing look.
"Take care of yourself, Kai. The real battles are just beginning."
Kai watched as Tetsuya was wheeled away, his mind already shifting gears to prepare for the upcoming challenges. The tournament was proving to be more complex than he had anticipated, with each fight revealing new facets of his opponents' strengths and strategies.
As the door closed behind Dr. Nishida and her team, Kai took a deep breath, mentally preparing himself for the trials ahead. The path to victory was becoming clearer, but it was also fraught with greater risks. He knew he had to stay sharp, adapt quickly, and push his limits further than ever before.
With renewed determination, Kai turned back to his locker, ready to focus on the next phase of his training. The road to becoming the champion was long and arduous, but he was more committed than ever to seeing it through.