Chapter 343: Rendezvous (1)

Ken stared at the lesson contents and homework that he’d been given, feeling a headache starting to form. It was rather depressing to find out that despite representing the Japanese National Team, he would still have to do his studies.

‘Damn it. I’ve already finished school and college, can’t you just let me be?’ He cried inwardly.

Yet even if this was the case, no one would possibly believe that he had regressed back in time.

Thankfully, his increased mental capacity allowed him to scour his memories so that he was somewhat familiar with the content.

While it was likely possible to copy the same answers he’d used back then, he had been barely above average in the grades department. What person would want to stay in mediocrity if they were given the chance to improve?

So after a few more complaints, Ken dove into his homework, making sure to tackle the English homework first since it was his best subject.

It was times like these that he thanked his Grandfather who was from America.

‘I wonder if we’ll get to see him while over there?’ Ken thought.

However, now was not the time to dwell on such things. He hadn’t seen his Grandfather more than a few times in his life. All that he remembered was the guy was tall and old.

After almost 2 hours of study, both Ken and Daichi left the dorms to go grab some lunch. Surprisingly they had another guest at their table this time.

“I must say Daichi, your training plan has been a real hit with the coaching staff. Even the Head Coach sang your praises during our meetings today.” Chris said, a proper grin on his face.

“Ha haha.” Daichi tried to smile, yet he could still feel some tension from the other players nearby. It seemed that they would not forgive him so easily for the torture he had caused.

Ken’s eyes widened as he thought about what his father said.

In the next moment he nudged his brother and whispered, “Bro, if the Head Coach has a good opinion of you, maybe he won’t be mad when… you know.”

“Ah… You’re right!” Daichi’s mood swiftly changed as he almost stood up in triumph.

Chris gave him a knowing smile followed by a wink, also lowering the volume of his voice.

“Just remember, try and hold off until we get to America.”

Daichi beat his chest in response, “Don’t worry dad, I’m a patient guy.” He said confidently.

Hiroki watched as the three Takagi’s acted as if he wasn’t there, saying some rather treasonous things in his presence. He could only turn his attention to the food and began eating in silence.

‘I don’t want to be involved… I didn’t hear anything.’

Apparently Kuro and Aki felt a little intimidated by Chris’s presence, so they decided to sit at another table for dinner which was just as well. Ken could already imagine the big mouth on Aki if he were to overhear their conversation.

Of course he trusted Hiroki, if anything he could pull him into some responsibility if it ever leaked out.

After around 30 minutes, Chris stretched his long limbs and let out a contented sigh.

“Better make the most of this food here guys, America’s cuisine will be a big change from what you’re used to.” He said with a grin.

“We’ve had burgers before though Dad. Can’t we just eat those over there?” Daichi asked, his head tilted up in confusion.

“Try explaining that to Miho~” He said with a big grin.

“Alright, get some sleep tonight guys. We’ve got 2 training sessions tomorrow and another film session. Goodnight.”

With that, he stood up and took his tray back to the counter, leaving the trio at the table.

“Guys, I’m beat. I’m heading to bed.” Hiroki said, standing up in the next moment.

“Goodnight.”

“Wait, I forgot to ask. Who is your roommate this time?” Ken questioned.

Hiroki’s face paled, feeling a little exasperated.

“It’s Ichiro…”

“Hmm? Why that expression?”

From what Ken knew, Ichiro might be a little serious, but he didn’t seem to have any obvious flaws that would scare off someone like Hiroki.

“He’s just so… quiet. I never know what he’s thinking, and his statue-like face is intimidating.”

Ken scoffed in his heart. If anyone could be likened to a statue or sculpture, it would be Hiroki with his chiseled abs. Inwardly, he was rather enjoying his friends plight, since he was forced to bunk with Kei the last time.

“Alright well good luck.” Ken said abruptly, showing absolutely no sympathy.

“Geh.”

Hiroki could only force a wry smile on his face as he took his tray back up to the front of the cafeteria.

Soon after, Ken glanced at his brother and could see him deep in thought. He had seen that look on his face before, so he didn’t worry too much. If anything, he knew the guy would speak up if there was anything he couldn’t handle.

“Alright, I’m heading off too.”

“Ah, wait for me.”

With that the two headed back to the dorms before going through their night time rituals.

Since Ken couldn’t enter the Image Training with Daichi in the room, he looked at his system window for a while before activating Mika’s sleep protocol. Within a few seconds he had entered a deep slumber.

Daichi was laying awake on the bed, staring at the ceiling for a while before he heard the soft snores of his brother.

“Damn that was fast…” He murmured.

It was a rather full on day today, even though they had only one training session this afternoon. Of course the training plan that Ken put together was a big reason why his muscles were tired.

Thinking of the training plan, his thoughts moved to Miho briefly.

Daichi had been so upset when seeing her reaction this morning. He’d seen a flash of hurt in her eyes upon seeing him that didn’t quite sit well with him.