An Unexpected Turn

"The match is over. Japan Team wins, six games to four."

The first match had ended, and Ochi and Fuji had claimed the victory.

The whole match had been dominated by Japan Team, with Serbia barely able to keep up.

They had tried targeting Fuji at certain points, but with the powerful Ochi Gekko backing him up, Fuji could attack and defend without holding back. Serbia's two players had been utterly overwhelmed by Japan Team's straightforward tactics.

For the first nine games, Ochi had supported Fuji as Fuji led the offense.

But in the final game, Fuji took on the role of attacker.

He used his overwhelming presence to draw all their attention to himself. Once Ochi's presence had faded into the background, Ochi could easily score while Fuji traded shots with Dusan Ivanovic and Nenad Trojki.

"We won!"

At the referee's call, the Japan Team players erupted in cheers.

They were only one of the three teams in the Matsutake and Ume division, but winning their first match proved that yesterday's victory over Germany hadn't been a fluke.

After all, Serbia wasn't some weak team. They were ranked twelfth in the world.

"Nicely done, Fuji!"

Ochi stepped forward and clapped Fuji on the shoulder, offering an unreserved compliment.

Compared to how things had gone in the original story, when he'd partnered with Oishi, this match had been a real pleasure to play.

He hadn't had to reveal much at all.

Fuji's individual strength might not match Muneyoshi's or Yukimura's, but his offensive and support abilities were both exceptional.

With his many special techniques, he could make his opponents return the ball along the paths he preferred.

Smashes and drives—Ochi Gekko had enjoyed every moment of the match.

The transformed Fuji was practically a natural doubles support partner.

Ochi