Chapter 8: Introduction
"Alright, now you can introduce yourselves in order," Coach Kataoka said with a nod, his voice deep and firm.
"Yes, sir!"
"I'm Daitou Sugiyama from Miyakawa Junior High. I hope to play center field, and I'm confident in my defensive abilities!"
"I'm Uesugi Kinya from Nakaji Junior High. I aim to play first base, and when it comes to hitting power, I'm confident I can compete with anyone!"
"....."
"I'm Kominato Haruichi from Yokohama Sunshine Junior High. My preferred position is second base." Although Haruichi's face was slightly flushed with embarrassment, his voice carried a resolute tone that caught the attention of those around him.
Among the second- and third-year students, another pink-haired senior noticed Haruichi's introduction. His eyes softened, and a gentle smile appeared on his face.
This wasn't just anyone; it was Kominato Ryousuke, Haruichi's older brother.
"Hey, Ryousuke, that kid kind of looks like you," said Isashiki Jun, who was standing nearby with his arms crossed. His intimidating gaze was fixed on Haruichi as he nudged Ryousuke and asked.
Other second- and third-year students, including Kusunoki Fumiya, Tanba, Miyuki, and Kuramochi, perked up their ears with curiosity.
"Yes, he's my younger brother," Ryousuke replied with a slight nod and a calm demeanor.
"Oh!"
"I knew it, he looks just like Ryou-san."
"No kidding!"
The surrounding second- and third-year players all wore expressions of realization. However, because the coach was present, they kept their voices deliberately low. Having spent over a year, some even two years, at Seidou, these upperclassmen were well aware of how terrifying their coach could be.
The consequences of getting on Coach Kataoka's bad side were too grim to even imagine.
"I'm Furuya Satoru from Tomakomai Junior High. I want to be a pitcher." Following Haruichi's introduction, Furuya was next. His tall, lanky frame and cold, stoic expression drew everyone's attention.
However, since there hadn't been any entrance tests, scrimmages, or actual games yet, Furuya Satoru didn't stand out at this time. While he attracted a bit of attention from the group, the focus quickly shifted away.
Only Eijun gave Furuya a long, deep look. This guy, who would surely become his biggest rival, deserved all the attention he could give.
It all starts today...
"I'm Nozawa Yuu from Nagadai Junior High. I hope to play third base, and I'm confident in my batting skills!"
While Eijun was lost in thought about the challenges ahead, the introductions continued, and it was soon his turn.
As the order approached Eijun, among the second- and third-year students, Kuramochi Yoichi flashed a mischievous grin, while Miyuki Kazuya's eyes gleamed with a curious light. He rubbed his chin and chuckled quietly to himself.
"So, this interesting kid ended up coming to our school after all..."
Although half a year had passed since their last encounter, Eijun's performance back then had left a lasting impression on Miyuki. Especially since they had partnered as a pitcher and catcher. Miyuki remembered him vividly, and as he watched Eijun step forward, a look of intrigue settled on his face.
But Eijun had no time to notice Miyuki's playful gaze.
When it was his turn, Coach Kataoka's eyes naturally fell on Eijun.
There was a depth and intensity in those eyes, the kind that came from a man once known as the "Soul Ace of Koshien," and now the iron-willed coach of Seidou High. The pressure was palpable.
Eijun could feel the weight of Kataoka's gaze, and it stirred an uncontrollable surge of excitement within him. Whether it was the lingering emotions from his own personality or the deep respect and admiration he had for Coach Kataoka from his previous life, Eijun felt a swell of determination.
Steadying himself, he took a deep breath, crossed his hands behind his back, and his eyes sparkled with resolve.
His voice rang out across the field, clear and strong, filled with self-awareness and conviction.
"I'm Sawamura Eijun from Akagi Junior High. I want to be a pitcher. I've come to Seidou to challenge myself and become the team's ace!"
His words were powerful, his eyes bright and unwavering. There wasn't a hint of hesitation or fear in his expression. In that moment, Sawamura Eijun captured the attention of everyone present. The first-year students turned to look at him with a mix of surprise, shock, and even disdain—various emotions flashed across their faces as they focused on him.
Meanwhile, among the second- and third-year students, a collective expression of interest emerged. It seemed this year's first-year class had brought in quite a remarkable individual. Each senior regarded him with curiosity, except for third-year Tanba Kouichirou, who furrowed his brow slightly.
Second-year Kawakami Norifumi offered a small, wry smile. 'This kid hasn't changed at all since half a year ago.'
In the dormitory, Kuramochi clicked his tongue in amazement, while Miyuki's eyes gleamed with a peculiar light.
"Interesting, really interesting. This kid suits me perfectly."
Miyuki thought to himself.
"Heh, got some nerve, huh?"
"Coming out with a declaration to be the ace right off the bat. Hey, Tanba, Kawakami, looks like the kid doesn't think much of you two, haha!"
Even Coach Kataoka took an unusually long look at Sawamura Eijun, not just because of his bold statement but also because Takashima Rei had evidently given him a detailed report on Eijun after he decided to come to Seidou.
In this moment, Kataoka could more directly sense the kind of player Eijun was.
"Should I say he's straightforward, or that he has a clear goal..." Kataoka mused silently.
But this was only the beginning. There was nothing more to say for now. The real test would come in the upcoming training sessions—whether Eijun could truly make an impression on everyone.
A baseball player isn't judged by words; it's their performance on the field that proves their worth.
Eijun didn't think too much about it. He was simply driven by the lingering emotions and personality of his past self, combined with his own determination, which led him to declare his goal here. After finishing his introduction, he quietly returned to his place and remained silent.
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