A peaceful morning in May, quiet and serene, with morning dew, mountain mist, and a faint floral fragrance.
On the Hyotei tennis court, two boys stood at the net, gazing into each other's eyes. A gentle breeze swept past, ruffling their hair.
Atobe Keigo stood on the court, looking at the silver-haired boy across from him. He knew that the last time they'd played, the boy hadn't used his full strength.
That was why Atobe had been looking forward to this day: to a second match against this boy. This time, he hoped his opponent would give it everything he had.
"Kannagi, I want to see your true ability in today's match."
Atobe's expression was solemn. He had not underestimated the opponent standing before him for a moment. He wanted to defeat Kannagi Shinichi—and to do it fair and square.
"If that's what you want, Atobe, then I won't hold back in this match."
Kannagi Shinichi hadn't planned to hold back today anyway. He wanted to see if he could bring out Atobe's potential and take his eyesight to a new level, allowing him to develop the special move he was destined to master: Ice World.
Hearing Kannagi Shinichi's words, Atobe Keigo gave a proud laugh. "I wouldn't have it any other way!"
At the edge of the court, Oshitari Yuushi, Yamazaki Uye, Shishido Ryo, and the other regulars stood watching the showdown between Hyotei's two strongest players.
"Yuushi, you can referee again today."
Kannagi Shinichi called out to Oshitari at the side of the court. He took this match just as seriously and didn't want anything to mar it.
Oshitari nodded, went straight to the umpire's chair, and then asked the two players to decide who would serve first.
"Heads or tails..."
Atobe planted his racket on the ground