Ryoma has barely pulled out his gumshield when one of the newcomers steps forward and bows so low his forehead nearly touches the canvas.
"Senpai… it's my turn."
The other rookies freeze, exchanging looks.
"Satoru…? Are you out of your mind?" one of them blurts.
"You saw what happened to Kobo. You'll get killed in there!" says another.
Ryoma studies the kid's posture. Unlike Kobo, there's no cocky grin in him, no forced bravado, only a stiff bow and a steady voice.
"I came here to become a boxer," Satoru says. His tone is quiet but firm. "Please… go easy on me."
There's no bluff in his eyes, just raw nerves and a stubborn sort of resolve.
"What now, Coach?" Ryoma asks.
"He's here to learn," Nakahara says. "Just don't bully him. Teach him something."
The coach turns back to Kobo, who's still on the canvas, headgear askew. He unbuckles the straps, pulls the headgear free, and pats Kobo's shoulder before helping him out between the ropes.
