[A\N: Happy New Year everyone, sorry for not updating regularly ,i've been busy ,here is the latest chapter for this new year, ENJOY.]
The town was small but vibrant, nestled in the rolling hills of Japan, far from the familiar streets of Skyline. Takumi's mind buzzed with anticipation and uncertainty as he made his way toward the towering building that marked the start of his new journey. The Japan Under-20 training facility stood before him like a beacon, its sleek, modern architecture standing in stark contrast to the traditional buildings that dotted the town.
It was bigger than Takumi had imagined. The facility stretched high into the sky, an imposing structure made of steel and glass, with large windows offering glimpses into the interior. He had seen pictures online, but they didn't do justice to the magnitude of it all. The building felt like it had a life of its own—alive with history, potential, and pressure.
Takumi stood frozen for a moment, his suitcase in hand, staring up at the facility. The weight of what he was about to embark on, of the expectations placed on him, settled in his chest like a heavy stone. This was the next step. This was what he had worked for, what he had dreamed about since his youth. But now that he was here, it felt overwhelming.
A gentle breeze lifted his hair as he took a deep breath and stepped forward, heading toward the entrance. His steps were deliberate, though his nerves tugged at him like a thousand strings. The security guard at the entrance waved him through with a polite smile, nodding as he mentioned something about his check-in with the coach.
Inside, the facility was just as impressive. The floors gleamed under the bright lights, and the walls were lined with displays of past achievements—trophies, photos of legendary players, and banners with the team's crest. Takumi's eyes lingered on one of the banners, a picture of the Under-20 squad from last year, their faces full of pride and determination. He wondered if he would ever be a part of something like that, if he would ever wear that crest with pride.
A young staff member appeared beside him, guiding him through the hallways to the training ground. The sound of footballs being kicked, shouts of players, and the sharp whistle of a coach echoed in the distance. Takumi's heart raced as they approached the pitch, the realization that this was where it would all happen hitting him once again.
The training field was immaculate, a vast expanse of perfectly manicured grass. The players were already in the midst of their warm-up drills, moving with precision and discipline. Takumi could see the seriousness in their faces, the hunger in their eyes. These were the country's brightest young talents, the ones who would carry Japan's footballing future on their shoulders.
As he stepped onto the pitch, the coach—a tall, stern man with a deep voice—greeted him warmly. His name was Coach Takeda, and he was known for his no-nonsense approach. His eyes, however, held a kindness that was immediately reassuring.
"Takumi," the coach said, offering a firm handshake. "Welcome to the Japan Under-20 team. We've been expecting you."
Takumi smiled nervously, shaking the coach's hand with respect. "Thank you, Coach. I'm honored to be here."
Coach Takeda nodded, glancing toward the group of players. "This is where your real test begins. I know you've worked hard to get here, but now, it's about proving yourself with the best. You'll train alongside them, learn from them, and push yourself beyond what you thought was possible. Are you ready for that?"
Takumi's heart raced, but he stood tall, his voice steady. "I'm ready."
Coach Takeda motioned for him to follow as he walked over to the players, who were finishing up their warm-up. Takumi's eyes swept over the squad, noting their focus and determination. The intensity in the air was palpable, and for the first time, he felt like he was truly stepping into the big leagues.
As they approached, Coach Takeda called out to the group. "Listen up, everyone! We have a new addition to the team. This is Takumi, our latest recruit. He's joining us from Skyline FC. I expect you to treat him like one of your own, show him the ropes, and help him get up to speed."
Takumi gave a small wave, his nervousness evident as the team turned to acknowledge him. He tried to smile, but his stomach churned with anxiety. These were the players he would be training with—players who had already made their mark in the world of football. Some of them were already well-known, their names spoken with admiration. How could he possibly stand out among them?
Just as Takumi was beginning to feel overwhelmed, his gaze landed on one of the players. A familiar face, one he hadn't expected to see here. There, on the far side of the field, was Shinji—his friend, his teammate from Skyline FC.
Takumi's heart skipped a beat. Shinji looked different here—more confident, more composed—but it was unmistakably him. His features were sharper, his posture more assured. He was training hard, leading his group in passing drills, his eyes intense with focus. But when he noticed Takumi standing with Coach Takeda, a smile broke out on his face.
Takumi's mouth went dry as Shinji jogged over to him, his pace smooth and effortless. The rest of the team followed, glancing at Takumi before returning to their own drills. Shinji stopped in front of him, clapping him on the shoulder.
"Well, look who's here," Shinji said, his voice light but warm. "I didn't expect to see you here of all places."
Takumi couldn't help but grin, a sense of relief washing over him. "I didn't expect it either. I had no idea you were part of the Under-20 squad."
Shinji chuckled. "Of course I am. I've been here for a while now. But hey, it's good to have a familiar face around. Don't worry, we'll make sure you get settled in just fine."
The reassurance in Shinji's voice put Takumi at ease. For the first time since arriving, he felt like he wasn't completely alone in this new world. Shinji had already made his mark here, and now Takumi would have the chance to do the same. They were teammates again, even in this new environment, and that connection was enough to give him the strength to push forward.
Coach Takeda watched the exchange with a knowing smile, then gestured for the players to get back to work. "Alright, enough talking. Takumi, Shinji—get yourself into the drills. We don't have all day."
Takumi nodded, feeling the nerves begin to fade. This was it. This was the beginning of his journey with the Japan Under-20 team. And with Shinji by his side, maybe—just maybe—he could handle whatever came next.
As the session began in earnest, Takumi felt the weight of the moment lift slightly. The facility, the team, and the pressure that came with it all felt a little more familiar now. He was here to prove himself, and with Shinji at his side, he knew he wouldn't be facing it alone. The next chapter had just begun.