Chapter 10:Rising Tension

As the sunlight streamed through the high windows of the Blue Lock facility, the air buzzed with anticipation. The atmosphere in the locker room was thick with the scent of sweat and determination as Team Z huddled together, nerves and excitement coursing through them.

They had gathered for one purpose: to decide their positions for the upcoming match against Team X. In a playful yet intense spirit, they engaged in a game of rock, paper, scissors. Kira, feeling the weight of his ambition, focused all his energy into the game. With swift reflexes and a sharp mind, he emerged victorious.

"Forward! I'm going to be the one leading the charge!" Kira announced with a confident grin, a fire ignited in his eyes.

The other players nodded, acknowledging his decision. They knew that Kira had the talent and the drive to shine on the field, but there was an underlying tension about how they would work together as a team.

Once the positions were settled, the screen flickered to life with Ego's face. He began to explain the First Selection in detail, a round-robin tournament format involving the five teams of the fifth stratum. Only the top two teams would advance, and individual players could also secure advancement by becoming the top scorer on their team.

"Remember," Ego's voice boomed from the screen, "every point matters. A win gets you three points, a draw one, and a loss none. But be careful—the points lost will affect your rank too. Play smart!"

Kira felt the weight of those words settle heavily on his shoulders. The upcoming match was more than just a game; it was a crucial step toward his dream of becoming the best striker.

"The first match is Team X versus Team Z," Ego continued. "You have two hours to prepare. Use this time wisely!"

As the screen went dark, the locker room buzzed with murmurs and strategies. Kira's teammates began to discuss their approach to the game, and a sense of urgency filled the air. They needed to center their plays around Kira, but some players were still unsure of his strength.

"Are you really up for this, Kira?" Rachi asked, his voice filled with skepticism. "You might have won at rock, paper, scissors, but this is a whole different ballgame."

"Trust me," Kira replied, his determination unwavering. I know what I'm capable of, and I won't let you down."

Isagi chimed in, trying to calm the brewing tension. "Let's just focus on teamwork. We can't win if we don't support each other."

"Exactly," Bachira added, his eyes wide with excitement. "We need to play as one. If we can't trust each other, we'll end up losing."

As they continued their discussion, the atmosphere shifted from uncertainty to resolve. They knew they had to come together as a cohesive unit if they wanted to stand a chance against Team X.

The time passed quickly, and before they knew it, the moment of truth arrived. They found themselves standing in the dimly lit corridor that led to the field. Kira's heart raced, adrenaline coursing through his veins. This was it. The start of their journey.

Stepping onto the field, Kira surveyed the expanse before him. The grass was freshly cut, and the lines were perfectly marked. A sense of serenity washed over him, but it was soon replaced by the thrill of competition. They were here to win.

With a deep breath, Kira took his position. The whistle blew, signaling the start of the match. Bachira immediately took control of the ball, weaving expertly between the opposing players. Kira felt a rush of excitement as he followed closely behind, ready to pounce when the opportunity arose.

"Pass it!" Kira shouted, his voice cutting through the tension. Bachira nodded, a glint of understanding in his eyes. He sent the ball flying toward Kira, who deftly received it, his instincts kicking in.

With the ball now at his feet, Kira took a moment to assess the field. He spotted three defenders closing in, their expressions determined. He had to act quickly. With a quick feint to the right, he bypassed the first defender. The second lunged at him, but Kira used his God Speed Impulse, dodging effortlessly to avoid the tackle.

Suddenly, Rachi, in an ill-timed display of pride, attempted to steal the ball. "I've got this!" he shouted, but his arrogance only served to leave their back line exposed. Kira's frustration boiled over.

"You idiot! You left our defense open!" Kira yelled, grabbing Rachi by the collar. "We can't win if we keep playing selfishly! Remember, we need to work together!"

Rachi bristled, his pride wounded. "I'll do it my way!" he shot back, determination in his eyes.

Kira understood that with Rachi's attitude, losing this match was inevitable. He glanced at the other players; they shared the same prideful look. Only Isagi and Bachira seemed to understand that they needed teamwork to succeed.

As the ball was passed to their opponent, Kira's heart raced. The opposing players kicked the ball towards Shouei Barou, ranked 250. Kira's instincts screamed at him to prepare. This was the moment that could define the match.

Kira positioned himself, ready to spring into action. Barou was known for his ruthless playing style; he wouldn't hesitate to take advantage of any opening. Kira narrowed his eyes, focusing solely on Barou's movements.

As Barou took control of the ball, Kira felt a surge of anticipation. The moment was upon them. The match would hinge on what happened next.

With everything at stake, Kira steeled himself for the challenge. He would show them what he was capable of.

The game was on, and the true test was about to begin.