The next morning, the four met early and headed to the tryouts together. As they walked, Min-jun broke the silence:
"Do you guys still remember the water oath?"
Yuta looked away, a little embarrassed, but said nothing.
When they arrived at the field, the atmosphere was tense. Ford was checking his watch impatiently.
"There was only one minute left before the test was to start," he announced firmly.
At that moment, someone came running, 15 seconds late. Ford turned to them with a stern look:
"You're eliminated. Being late is unacceptable."
The others were shocked, but Akira tried to argue:
"Maybe something happened to him on the way, that's why he was late."
Ford responded without hesitation:
"That may be true. But it doesn't matter. Being late shows a lack of commitment to the team. If you don't value training, you don't deserve to be here. Those who don't respect the club only hold the group back. You're out."
Silence fell over the group, and the test continued.
Ford led them to the starting line, where he was no longer alone. Other coaches waited, each ready to evaluate a different challenge.
"Min-jun, your challenge is speed," announced a Korean coach, smiling approvingly. "I want to see explosive bursts and control in direction changes."
Min-jun took a deep breath and gave it his all, his legs slicing through the air as he dodged obstacles and sprinted.
Tanaka was called over by a serious, experienced Japanese coach who launched high balls for him to head.
"Show your strength and positioning," he ordered, watching every jump.
For Akira and Yuta, the challenge was different and intense.
An older coaches with a keen eye explained:
"You two will work together against a set defense. There will be several attackers on the field, and your goal is to create plays and finish with goals. But it won't be easy," he warned. "The defense is strong and organized. I want to see creativity, quick passes, and game vision."
Akira felt the pressure but focused. Yuta, confident as ever, faced the challenge with a daring smile.
The test began, and they needed to find gaps, exchange passes, and surprise the defense to score. Every play was crucial.