"I never expected Japan Team to be tied one-all with Germany."
"Two years ago, they were fighting tooth and nail against us. Now their strength has completely surpassed ours..."
"And Duke... what a shame..."
In the stands, Bart, the vice captain of France Team, watched the players leave the court and sighed with emotion, especially over Duke, who had once been France's captain.
"Yeah. Japan Team's middle schoolers really are packed with talent. In just two matches, three of the super middle schoolers have all turned out to be from Japan."
Camus smiled gently. "Duke has found his own path, too. We should be happy for him, shouldn't we?"
Although Camus's tone was still gentle, only he knew how shaken he felt inside.
Niou's impersonation—and the way he had even transformed into himself during the match to partner with Duke—had deeply affected Camus.
In truth, it wasn't just him. Players from Greece Team, Spain, Argentina, Belgium, and other teams were all marveling at Niou's creativity.
"Great job, Niou!"
"Nice work, Duke!"
Niou and Duke received a warm welcome from everyone when they returned to the team.
After losing Singles 3, another defeat in doubles would have made the match very difficult. That was why winning this Doubles 2 match was so important for Japan Team.
With one win and one loss, the two teams were back on equal footing.
Even Coach Mifune, in the coaching area, wore a slightly broader smile. He now had a pretty good idea of how the remaining matches would go.
Just as everyone on Japan Team was celebrating,
two figures were darting back and forth on a practice court beside the central stadium.
One of them was a blond young man. Compared to his mature air, the other looked somewhat more youthful.
Yet beneath that