The class ends and the teacher leaves. Just a second after the door closes, Riccardo approaches the desk under the gaze of the entire class.
"Before you all go, I want to make things clear. I ended up living in Japan because of my father's job. I don't even know how he managed to get this recommendation to bring me here. But let me be clear: I haven't taken the physical tests yet, so it's not my fault, and I didn't ask to be put in this situation!"
The students don't seem entirely convinced by Riccardo's speech.
Nishimura stands up and looks at him.
"Maybe you didn't want to be in this situation... but that doesn't change the fact that you'll probably pass the physical tests, even if you fail miserably. After all, you're a recommendation. That alone is enough to make people suspicious."
Everyone silently agrees with Nishimura's doubts.
"Yes... it's a valid concern." Riccardo gives the class a challenging look. "But in the end, it's only a matter of time."
The class looks back, clearly annoyed by Riccardo's words.
"What do you mean?"
"I mean I'll prove myself to all of you, both on and off the field!"
After making his statement, Riccardo grabs his bag and walks out of the classroom, ignoring the stares burning his back.
Nishimura sighs as Riccardo walks out, then grabs his bag and duffel bag.
Outside the classroom, Shimizu is waiting for him, also carrying a bag and duffel bag.
"Hey!"
Nishimura sees him and approaches. The two begin to walk together.
"So... tough day?"
"Did you hear everything?"
"Mostly, though I think the entire hallway did, honestly."
They walk down the stairs and into the entrance of the building.
"You know... I actually agree with the boy."
"Why?"
"Well, like he said, he didn't know anything. He was suddenly thrown into a world that wasn't his. If anything, he probably just wants classmates to support him, not judge him."
Nishimura walks in silence, head down, considering Shimizu's words.
"Yeah..."
Shimizu notices him deep in thought.
"Anyway, let's change the subject. Coach probably won't show up today either."
"It's been four days straight now."
They stop in front of a door.
"I think by now, in this first fifteen days here at Shūdan-teki, you've understood why our club has been called the worst of all, for ten years straight."
"I understood it clearly... loud and clear."
Shimizu opens the door and enters, followed by Nishimura.