As "Byōdōin" and Duke stepped onto the court as a pair.
The spectators weren't the only ones cheering. Even the Japan Team was stunned.
"No way! Can Niou really imitate even Byōdōin?"
"Niou can do this much? That's incredible!"
"Rikkai Dai's Niou Masaharu really is a monster~~"
But unlike the other high school and middle school players, Yukimura and Sanada, who knew Niou very well, were a little worried.
They knew exactly what Niou was struggling with.
And now, before he'd overcome that struggle, he was once again using a Phantom of Byōdōin Hōō—someone far beyond the limits of his own ability—on the World Tournament stage.
It was hard to say whether that was a good thing or a bad one.
"Genichiro, there's nothing we can do right now except believe in Niou!"
Hearing Yukimura say that, Sanada could only calm himself down.
"Be careful, Sefried..."
Across the court, Bismarck's expression darkened when he saw Byōdōin.
He didn't know Byōdōin's exact strength, but the title of captain of the Japan Team and Saeki Muneyoshi's record were enough to show how terrifying he was.
"I know, Captain Bismarck!"
Sefried clearly understood that his opponent had brought out his full strength, but he couldn't back down now.
"Stop hesitating and show me everything you've got!"
Seeing the Byōdōin Niou had mimicked cross his legs, raise the toe of his left foot, and lean back slightly, Bismarck roared again.
"Yes!"
Sefried's face turned troubled and bleak. He didn't look at Niou again, but lowered his head and glanced at his hands.
He had sworn that the next time he faced the Japan Team, he'd make them regret it.
If he ever got another chance to stand on the world stage, he'd make sure everyone knew his name—Sefried.
He would surpass Tezuka Kunimitsu and