Volume 6: "Prestigious and Determination" | Chapter 92: "A Basketball Trace"
At the Hyodo Residence in Rokugō, the members of the Burnt Leaf are staying at the living room where they sit in the sofa for relaxation time. Koneko taps Issei’s shoulders as she’s thinking about what Issei will do to Motohama and Matsuda after the two perverts have joined the Kikuchiba Academy High School boys’ basketball team.
Team Gremory: Rias Gremory, Akeno Himejima and Rossweisse
Team Hyodo: Issei Hyodo, Asia Argento, Koneko Toujou, Yuto Kiba, Xenovia Quarta, Irina Shido, Gasper Bloody, Ravel Phoenix, Kuroka, Elmenhilde Karnstein, Seiichi Matsuda, Eiji Motohama, Aika Kiryuu, Kaori Katase, Minami Murayama and Le Fay Pendragon
Students of Kikuchiba Academy: Kenta Suginami, Hideo Suginami, Reiji Matsutomo, Asami Shimizu and Kozue Murayama
“Issei-kun, I believe that you’re lucky to get Motohama and Matsuda to the basketball team. What are you thinking about them?” said Koneko.
“To be honest, Motohama and Matsuda must pay attention to the use of magic if they will be able to join the team. I know that those two are worked hard, practicing their skills in my own court” said Issei.
While Issei continues to explain about Motohama and Matsuda’s possible inclusion to the Kikuchiba Academy High School boys’ basketball team, Motohama and Matsuda play each other in a one-on-one match. Elmenhilde, Le Fay and Yuto are observing both Motohama and Matsuda. “I gave them free training every day and both Motohama and Matsuda have really started their new ways in playing basketball. Unfortunately for them, they still don’t know what kind of talent they have. I mean, Motohama and Matsuda have been troubled with turnovers because they don’t know who to pass the ball another player. It seems that I made a big deal in convincing two perverts to join the basketball team, so that they will be ready to step up in the court. They usually don’t like to get hammered by girls like Katase and Murayama, but they need to pay attention to me because they will be able to strive for their difference. I want to build the Kikuchiba Academy High School boys’ basketball team to be more revolving like a meteor and someday, I will manage them to a championship.”
“So, basically, you have talked to Motohama and Matsuda a hour ago. Right?” said Koneko.
“Yep” said Issei.
“Uh, I’m worried about them if they won’t be selected by your head coach. I mean, they don’t deserve to join the team if they keep flunking in seatworks, assignments or quizzes. They will get mocked by their classmates if they keep on doing their things of their own” said Koneko.
“Yeah, I know, Koneko, but…” said Issei.
“…I believe that your number one priority is your mind. Think about them if they’re good to play basketball and then, you have to observe them” said Gasper.
“Why do I observe them?” asked Issei.
“It’s because you convince them to play basketball and I believe that those two perverts should learn more about the techniques in basketball. Did you get it?” said Gasper.
“Yes, Gasper, I understand” said Issei.
“Well, I’m sure that you can’t lose them if you can observe them on your own” said Gasper.
“Of course, Gasper. What could possibly go wrong when they are clashing with their techniques?” said Issei. Issei leaves the living room to go outside to the terrace.
Gasper and Koneko are quiet after Issei left. Gasper talks to Koneko shortly in the sofa. “I’m not sure what will happen to both Motohama and Matsuda once they will join the basketball team.”
“Well, students will react about their inclusion, saying that those two nerds are having lack of talent, but I’m sure that Issei will try his best to fix the problem” said Koneko.
“Yeah, I agree, Koneko. To be honest, like all players in Kikuchiba, Motohama and Matsuda have been known for their mind observation. If these guys are going to use detection in the court, they can steal the ball immediately. However, both have been lacked on offense. So, usually, they have to watch out for playmakers who have good IQ and hustle. It’s difficult to beat them without mastering the detection” said Gasper.
“Yeah, I believe that they should learn new tricks to make sure that their opponents will be surprised by those moves” said Koneko.
“Yeah, I agree with that, Koneko” said Gasper.
At the terrace, Issei meets Elmenhilde, Le Fay and Yuto, who are watching Motohama and Matsuda playing basketball. “Hi, Elmen! Hi, Le Fay! Hi, Yuto!”
“Hi, Issei!” said Elmenhilde, Le Fay and Yuto.
“How’s my two buddies doing?” asked Issei.
“Issei, they look tired after showing their techniques to each other, but apparently, Motohama had a great sense in doing detection. Just watch” said Yuto.
Matsuda is now holding the ball and dribbling the ball while facing Motohama. Motohama would use his mind observation to look at what Matsuda doing. When Matsuda is about to change his hands while dribbling the ball, Motohama steals the ball with a jab.
Issei, Elmenhilde, Le Fay and Yuto gasp as they are surprised to see how Motohama doing the detection to steal the ball over Matsuda.
“Wow!” said Elmenhilde.
“That steal rocks!” said Le Fay.
“Motohama is good in observing people in his class, but when it comes to his bold personality, he can end up being red hot” said Yuto.
Motohama dribbles the ball before driving past Matsuda. Motohama shoots the ball with the finger roll and the ball drives to the basket.
“People said that Motohama is disrespectful to most girls, but he’s a handsome man after he had changed since his transfer to Kikuchiba” said Yuto.
“Ah, I think it’s true to see Motohama’s own vision and also, to touch some girl’s body would make him lustful. If you imagine, Motohama had to keep an eye on what the girls doing before taking the action” said Issei.
“You’re right about that, Issei” said Yuto.
Then, Motohama and Matsuda continues playing basketball where Motohama is good in stealing the ball while Matsuda recovers the ball by grabbing the ball with his right hand. When Motohama tries to shoot the ball with the jump shot, Matsuda swats the shot out of there before making the impact in using the drive. Motohama tries his best to steal the ball, but Matsuda proves Motohama too much where Matsuda drives past Motohama before shooting the ball with the layup. The next thing happens is when Motohama performs the combination of dribble and power step before goes for the spin move. Motohama shoots the three-point shot and the ball drives to the basket.
“A perfect three-point shot!” said Le Fay.
“That would make him smile after the ball goes in to the basket!” said Elmenhilde.
Matsuda performs the isolation move before doing the behind the back dribble. Matsuda would go for the up and under where he shoots the ball with his acceleration. Matsuda’s shot is a success after the ball drives to the basket.
“At least Matsuda is going to overcome his mistakes from the diceball match. I’m sure that there’s a consideration in making Matsuda being a role player” said Issei.
“Well, it depends on him, Issei. He should be quicker if he can detect any move Motohama using” said Yuto.
Motohama and Matsuda go back and forth in using their techniques before Matsuda’s three-point shot is successful.
“Alright, boys. Let’s call it a match!” said Issei.
Motohama and Matsuda are exhausted, huffing with their sweats are all over the body and their faces.
“Issei, did you have recruited your players?” asked Motohama.
“Yep” said Issei.
“Are those coming from the first year?” asked Matsuda.
“Definitely” said Issei.
“Uh, did you found something interested when you’re staying at the booth?” asked Motohama.
“Actually, there is a lavender-haired guy named Hiroshi Ozato. Hiroshi Ozato is a first year high school student and a content player who had a dream of becoming a starter for the Kikuchiba Academy High School boys’ basketball team” said Issei.
“Is he a pervert?” asked Matsuda.
“Uh, no, Matsuda. He’s a handsome guy who is always being ambivalent. He had a lot of friends during his middle school years and at least, a few of it join with him to enroll at the Kikuchiba Academy” said Issei.
“From what school he came from?” asked Motohama.
“He came from Shimoda Middle School, a school located in Nishi Rokugō” said Issei.
“It reminds me of one of my classmates named Yoshitsugu Ishida. Ah, Yoshitsugu has been handsome whenever he wears his glasses all day. He is the older brother of Itsuki Ishida. Uh, by the way, Issei, did you recognize some students from that school?” said Matsuda.
“Uh, no, Matsuda. But apparently, there are some students that I’m familiar with based on my research on Hiroshi. They are Ryōsuke Fujii and Aoi Wakasa. Ryōsuke is a first year high school student who loves to focus on flora and fauna of Japan and now studying in Nashiba High School. On the other hand, Aoi is also an elegant black-haired first year high school student who loves to create illustrations because she works as a member of an art committee in the manga industry known as Shiba Shoten” said Issei.
“I see that those people are very generous when they’re in Shimoda, but I can’t figure it out where Hiroshi lived in” said Motohama.
“Hmm… Issei, I believe that you’re tracing their careers while reading the application forms. Right?” said Matsuda.
“Uh, yeah… it’s true that I read the profiles of different applicants, but not including the two of you” said Issei.
Motohama and Matsuda are relieved after their application forms are not read by Issei.
“If you’re not reading our application forms, then who did?” asked Motohama.
“It’s the head coach of the Kikuchiba Academy High School boys’ basketball team Akihiro Shirogane” said Issei.
“Uh, the head coach of the Kikuchiba Academy High School boys’ basketball team? Akihiro Shirogane?” asked Motohama.
“I believe you’re right, Issei. Akihiro is a common head coach who had invented leverage strategies throughout his coaching career in Kikuchiba” said Yuto.
The flashback shows how Akihiro communicated with the players of Kikuchiba during a match against Tsubasa High School. Yuto explains to Issei, Motohama and Matsuda.
“Akihiro Shirogane is a formerly a basketball player from the same school he entered. Many students said that Akihiro had created leverage strategies in order to defeat their opponents with the use of run-and-gun and man-to-man defense. The players of Kikuchiba are very different than any other schools in Tokyo because they have capabilities of using their own special talents. Akihiro observes anyone with his eyes before he takes the action to pull off a strategy for them. One of the examples is the Straight-Out Amethyst.”
The players of Kikuchiba play their major role in doing the Straight-Out Amethyst where they will be forming a variant of the diamond formation where the captain faces the opponent’s captain in the top of the key.
“When they formed the Straight-Out Amethyst, they decided to use their stamina and strength while pressuring their opponents in order to match their level. Then, one player is about to pass or shoot, they will attack the offense by stopping them in force. It’s easy to receive defensive stops against your opponents because they’re focusing on the defense.”
The flashback ends after the players of Kikuchiba have successfully worked their strategy. Motohama questioned Yuto after the explanation. “I’m not sure if their opponents get surprised by that move. Did they get puzzled when the players of Kikuchiba used that strategy?”
“Yeah. The players of Kikuchiba are thought to be strict, but they have abilities to stop their opponents with the use of stamina and strength. Akihiro can let the players to form the Straight-Out Strategy if the players think that their opponents are good enough to stop Kikuchiba’s defense” said Yuto.
“Ah, I guess I believe that Akihiro is very good in forming the offense. There’s no doubt that the players of Kikuchiba are going to make sure that their opponents are going to lose their momentum once the intimidation comes out” said Motohama.
“Yeah, I agree with that, Motohama. That’s why you have to follow what our head coach said” said Issei.
“Okay!” said Motohama and Matsuda.
Akeno appears from the living room, calling the members of the Burnt Leaf. “Everyone! Your dinner is ready!”
“Okay!” said Issei, Elmenhilde, Le Fay, Yuto, Motohama and Matsuda.
At the dining area, the members of the Burnt Leaf are sitting together in a large table. The foods are now prepared and served.
“Thanks for the food!” said the members of the Burnt Leaf.
The members of the Burnt Leaf start eating their food by picking one dish to another. Then, twenty minutes later, they finish eating their food and start talking in a conversation.
“Issei, I don’t know if you’re analyzing the applicants who are going to participate at the tryout next week or not. Aren’t you?” said Asia.
“Yeah” said Issei.
“As soon as those players are going to participate at the tryout next week, do you think you can pick at least 4 or 5 players?” asked Asia.
“Uh, no, Asia. It’s the decision of the head coach to pick the players if they’re worthy to be good in using their skills based on the different categories: offense, defense, athleticism, stamina, mental strength, technique and special ability” said Issei.
“I hope that you’ll be able to pick the good ones, Issei. Remember, you have to trust them, so that they will be able to obey you” said Asia.
“Yeah, of course not, Asia! I will always do it!” said Issei.
“That’s great! Uh, also, I want to let you know that Motohama and Matsuda should be more careful on their actions because they’re also planning to join the Kendo Club” said Asia.
“Oh, you’re worrying about the Kendo Club, Asia. But why?” said Issei.
“It’s because the Kendo Club is a group of girls who are good in using kendo sticks. Murayama and Katase are already joining that club because of their recognition by the members of the Kendo Club. Their leader is Miho Okayama, a beautiful third year student. She is a classmate of Murayama because she came from section 6-C” said Asia.
“Miho usually likes to hang out with her friends and of course, I befriend her. That’s why Katase and I are going to join the Kendo Club, but Motohama and Matsuda want to become members too in order to spy on us” said Murayama.
“Yeah, our club is supposedly for girls only, but if Motohama and Matsuda joined the club instead of joining the basketball club, they are gonna destroy our prestigious club” said Katase, who is worrying about Motohama and Matsuda if they will join the Kendo Club instead of the basketball team.
“Ah, I understand about the problem, Murayama and Katase. You see, I supposedly lead the Student Council in Kuoh Academy, but since we’re all in Kikuchiba Academy, I might need help from the Kikuchiba Academy High School Student Council to control the situation. I’m sure that Miho is trying to find out if Motohama and Matsuda are going to join the club. If that happens, I will ask the two of them even they’re eager to peep at the beautiful girls in the club” said Xenovia.
“Okay, Xenovia! We’ll try our best to watch out for Motohama and Matsuda if they’re not accepted by the basketball team and instead joining the Kendo Club” said Murayama.
“If they’re coming at us, then you’ll do it for us!” said Katase.
“Oh, sure, I can handle this, Murayama and Katase. Don’t worry, I’m be here in no time if the situation is coming” said Xenovia.
“Okay!” said Murayama and Katase.
“Gee. That Xenovia is seemed to be strict like the other members of the Student Council in Kuoh Academy did. I mean, Sona Sitri is intelligent and Tsubaki Shinra is quiet. They’re very good with the use of water powers” said Motohama.
“You’re right, Motohama. If Akihiro is not accepting our admission to the basketball team, then we’ll be instead joining the Kendo Club. But if Akihiro is accepting our admission, then we should focus on another way to look at Murayama and Katase” said Matsuda.
“So, you’re thinking that you’re going to bet that if you’re going to join the basketball or the Kendo Club. Well, the two of us are betting on your admission too!” said Katase.
“Yeah! We’re warning you to stop peeping at any member of the Kendo Club. If the girls of the Kendo Club feel embarrassed just like us, then we’ll prepare you the worst nightmare of your lives!” said Murayama.
Motohama and Matsuda are scared of seeing Murayama’s eyes. The heating situation between Motohama and Matsuda and Murayama and Katase is getting escalated to the Kikuchiba Academy to the fact that Murayama and Katase are formerly members of the Kendo Club of the Kouh Academy.
“Ah, we won’t do that again, Murayama and Katase!” said Motohama.
“Just don’t spare us!” said Matsuda.
“Oh, well. I guess that I will you a warning for the two of you, perverts” said Murayama.
“There’s no secret to see us undressed because we’re living in another room that no one ever knows” said Katase.
“Uh, where do you two girls gonna sleep?” asked Motohama.
“It’s located in the top floor where it is beside the room of Issei” said Katase.
“Oh, can I see that room?” asked Matsuda.
Murayama slaps Matsuda on the face, angrily saying, “Oh no, you don’t, Matsuda!”
“Ow! That hurts!” said Matsuda.
“You can’t come to our room because it’s for girls only! If you try to get our lingerie to inspect them, then I will give you a beating like the way we did in the Kendo Club” said Murayama.
“Okay, okay, okay! I won’t do it!” said Matsuda.
“Yeah! We don’t want to get spanked by the two of you!” said Motohama.
Murayama and Katase sigh after Matsuda and Motohama pleaded not to let the two girls attack them if the two perverts are running to the room of Murayama and Katase.
“Okay, fine. But if you two are behave and not able to peek on us, then I will let the two of you accept to see our room” said Murayama.
Motohama and Matsuda happily accept the condition. “Okay!”
“Okay, remember your promise, Motohama and Matsuda. I will be keeping an eye on the two of you. Issei is also eying on you” said Katase.
“Okay!” said Motohama and Matsuda.
Issei sighs after the heated argument between the two lovely girls (Murayama and Katase) and the two perverts (Motohama and Matsuda). “Gee, I believe that Motohama and Matsuda are not getting tolerated due to the fact that they’re going to join the Kendo Club. I have to keep an eye on those two.”
Koneko is quiet after the heated argument between the two lovely girls and the two perverts. “Perverts or not, I will assist you and the girls to beat them.”
Reiji Matsumoto talks to Ravel about the idea of tracing the careers of the applicants of the basketball team. “Ravel, did you find familiar to the applicants?”
“Uh, no, Reiji. What are you talking about?” said Ravel.
“I believe that most of the applicants are coming from our first year class. What about yours?” said Reiji.
“Uh, there are at two students who are aiming to join the basketball team. They are Norio Oguma and Mototsugu Abe. Norio Oguma is my classmate and he’s very intimidating when he is curious about his friends trying to make fun of him” said Ravel.
“Is he your crush?” asked Reiji.
“Uh, no, Reiji. He’s not my crush, but I believe that he has granite eyes just like a man who is always bold for his actions” said Ravel.
Reiji smiles on his face to Ravel and softly laughs. “Bold for his actions? That’s an interesting idea to describe a boy like him.”
“You said it, Reiji. I’m not sure he is trying to talk to me, but I refuse to stand to meet him” said Ravel.
“Ravel, all you have to do is to express your feelings to him. Then, you have to be kind to him because he is your love interest. I mean, polygamy is prohibited in Japan, but Kurenese people can marry anyone without the conditions of the Japanese parents” said Reiji.
“Is Norio a Japanese?” asked Ravel.
“Uh, yeah, definitely, he’s a Japanese. Born in Meguro and he’s the only child of two parents who were working in Chiyoda” said Reiji.
“What am I going to do if Issei knows this? I might end up getting troubled by him if I will do it” said Ravel.
“Don’t think bad thoughts about your decision. On out mind, you should keep an eye on who are you talking with. My expression can be your expression if you’ll be able to do it” said Reiji.
“Okay, Reiji! I’ll do it!” said Ravel.
“That’s my girl!” said Gasper.
“I think Ravel is ready to meet the guy who has granite eyes and a bold personality” said Koneko.
“If I remember correctly, we know that the applicants of the Kikuchiba Academy Elementary School boys’ basketball team and I believe that they have different things to remember because some guys are sporting their colors different or sometimes wearing your favorite color of your shirt” said Asami Shimizu.
“Well, that’s my point, Asami, but to be honest, you know that many boys have bold personality. They are very different than the boys of Kuoh” said Gasper.
“If I remember correctly, Gasper, the boys of Kuoh are very less interested in being bold and handsome, but some guys like Genshirō Saji are very interested to woo a girl” said Le Fay.
“Ah, I get it. So, I believe that there’s a difference between the boys of Kuoh and the boys of Kikuchiba. I wonder if they will meet each other in person. Do you think the boys of Kikuchiba can outsmart the boys of Kuoh?” said Gasper.
“Well, it depends on their intelligence and talent” said Asami Shimizu.
“Oh, okay, I’m sure that both sides are going to interact each other no matter what they will do” said Gasper.
“Exactly!” said Asami Shimizu.
“Issei, once the Occult Research Club is back in business, we’ll start all over again. Who do you think who can lead the club?” said Rias.
“Apparently, Asia. She can handle everything” said Asia.
“Oh, okay. Then, we will ‘re-appoint’ Yuto as the vice president of the club. I’m sure Asia and Yuto are already knowing the plans for this year. It’s going to be different than the ones in Kuoh because we’re going to explore everything in the human world. Everything is gonna be fine if we can do it together” said Rias.
“Sure, Rias” said Issei.
“I’m sure that we’re going to find things interested once we’re going to find some new evidences about the relationship between the Kurenese people and the humans in the planet Earth” said Asia.
“We’re going to start tracing the races and when we get into it, we’ll be able to find some evidences that we need to put it all in our research. Also, while the internship is ongoing, we should communicate with anyone and get to know with them” said Yuto.
“So, are we in with the plan?” asked Asia.
“Yeah!” said the members of the Burnt Leaf.
“Good! Then, we’ll begin this in a few days and while the club registration week is ongoing, we’ll be going to see some names on who will be joining the new Occult Research Club. I think we can trace their roots as well!” said Asia.
“Yeah, Asia! Let’s make sure that we’ll be going to have at 100 members to join our club. We’ll gonna make it. Right, everyone?” said Yuto.
“Yeah!” said the members of the Burnt Leaf.
“Then, let’s leave this place and go up to our room! Later, let’s play card games!” said Yuto.
“Okay!” said the members of the Burnt Leaf. When the Burnt Leaf promised that they will establish the Occult Research Club, they finally did it. To make things interested, the Occult Research Club hopes that they will be able to have many members, so that they will start giving new duties to them as this is going to be the start of a new journey in the Kikuchiba Academy. Also, Issei hopes that his two best friends Motohama and Matsuda will be joining the basketball team as soon as they don’t act crazy to the two lovely ladies Murayama and Katase. The Burnt Leaf is ready to revolve things around the Kikuchiba Academy and hopefully, they are going to build their friendship with the students of the Kikuchiba Academy.
UP NEXT: Chapter 93: " A Double Play Encounter”
The Occult Research Club is finally back! This time, in Kikuchiba Academy. So, things are going to be more revolving throughout the story of Issei and his company as they will be ready to meet new friends and explore new information about the ties between the human world and the ‘crimson’ world. In the next update, there is no such thing as double trouble encounter as the Foul Play Crew are the next group to take their mission to find the associated groups of the New Camellian Dragons. Also, there will be more details about the associated groups of the New Camellian Dragons, in which the three remaining groups are going to make their appearance in last part of the sixth volume. I’ll see you on December 5 (Wednesday) for the next update!
Part 2
At the Hyodo Residence in Rokugō, the members of the Burnt Leaf are staying at the living room where they sit in the sofa for relaxation time. Koneko taps Issei’s shoulders as she’s thinking about what Issei will do to Motohama and Matsuda after the two perverts have joined the Kikuchiba Academy High School boys’ basketball team.
Team Gremory: Rias Gremory, Akeno Himejima and Rossweisse
Team Hyodo: Issei Hyodo, Asia Argento, Koneko Toujou, Yuto Kiba, Xenovia Quarta, Irina Shido, Gasper Bloody, Ravel Phoenix, Kuroka, Elmenhilde Karnstein, Seiichi Matsuda, Eiji Motohama, Aika Kiryuu, Kaori Katase, Minami Murayama and Le Fay Pendragon
Students of Kikuchiba Academy: Kenta Suginami, Hideo Suginami, Reiji Matsutomo, Asami Shimizu and Kozue Murayama
“Issei-kun, I believe that you’re lucky to get Motohama and Matsuda to the basketball team. What are you thinking about them?” said Koneko.
“To be honest, Motohama and Matsuda must pay attention to the use of magic if they will be able to join the team. I know that those two are worked hard, practicing their skills in my own court” said Issei.
While Issei continues to explain about Motohama and Matsuda’s possible inclusion to the Kikuchiba Academy High School boys’ basketball team, Motohama and Matsuda play each other in a one-on-one match. Elmenhilde, Le Fay and Yuto are observing both Motohama and Matsuda. “I gave them free training every day and both Motohama and Matsuda have really started their new ways in playing basketball. Unfortunately for them, they still don’t know what kind of talent they have. I mean, Motohama and Matsuda have been troubled with turnovers because they don’t know who to pass the ball another player. It seems that I made a big deal in convincing two perverts to join the basketball team, so that they will be ready to step up in the court. They usually don’t like to get hammered by girls like Katase and Murayama, but they need to pay attention to me because they will be able to strive for their difference. I want to build the Kikuchiba Academy High School boys’ basketball team to be more revolving like a meteor and someday, I will manage them to a championship.”
“So, basically, you have talked to Motohama and Matsuda a hour ago. Right?” said Koneko.
“Yep” said Issei.
“Uh, I’m worried about them if they won’t be selected by your head coach. I mean, they don’t deserve to join the team if they keep flunking in seatworks, assignments or quizzes. They will get mocked by their classmates if they keep on doing their things of their own” said Koneko.
“Yeah, I know, Koneko, but…” said Issei.
“…I believe that your number one priority is your mind. Think about them if they’re good to play basketball and then, you have to observe them” said Gasper.
“Why do I observe them?” asked Issei.
“It’s because you convince them to play basketball and I believe that those two perverts should learn more about the techniques in basketball. Did you get it?” said Gasper.
“Yes, Gasper, I understand” said Issei.
“Well, I’m sure that you can’t lose them if you can observe them on your own” said Gasper.
“Of course, Gasper. What could possibly go wrong when they are clashing with their techniques?” said Issei. Issei leaves the living room to go outside to the terrace.
Gasper and Koneko are quiet after Issei left. Gasper talks to Koneko shortly in the sofa. “I’m not sure what will happen to both Motohama and Matsuda once they will join the basketball team.”
“Well, students will react about their inclusion, saying that those two nerds are having lack of talent, but I’m sure that Issei will try his best to fix the problem” said Koneko.
“Yeah, I agree, Koneko. To be honest, like all players in Kikuchiba, Motohama and Matsuda have been known for their mind observation. If these guys are going to use detection in the court, they can steal the ball immediately. However, both have been lacked on offense. So, usually, they have to watch out for playmakers who have good IQ and hustle. It’s difficult to beat them without mastering the detection” said Gasper.
“Yeah, I believe that they should learn new tricks to make sure that their opponents will be surprised by those moves” said Koneko.
“Yeah, I agree with that, Koneko” said Gasper.
At the terrace, Issei meets Elmenhilde, Le Fay and Yuto, who are watching Motohama and Matsuda playing basketball. “Hi, Elmen! Hi, Le Fay! Hi, Yuto!”
“Hi, Issei!” said Elmenhilde, Le Fay and Yuto.
“How’s my two buddies doing?” asked Issei.
“Issei, they look tired after showing their techniques to each other, but apparently, Motohama had a great sense in doing detection. Just watch” said Yuto.
Matsuda is now holding the ball and dribbling the ball while facing Motohama. Motohama would use his mind observation to look at what Matsuda doing. When Matsuda is about to change his hands while dribbling the ball, Motohama steals the ball with a jab.
Issei, Elmenhilde, Le Fay and Yuto gasp as they are surprised to see how Motohama doing the detection to steal the ball over Matsuda.
“Wow!” said Elmenhilde.
“That steal rocks!” said Le Fay.
“Motohama is good in observing people in his class, but when it comes to his bold personality, he can end up being red hot” said Yuto.
Motohama dribbles the ball before driving past Matsuda. Motohama shoots the ball with the finger roll and the ball drives to the basket.
“People said that Motohama is disrespectful to most girls, but he’s a handsome man after he had changed since his transfer to Kikuchiba” said Yuto.
“Ah, I think it’s true to see Motohama’s own vision and also, to touch some girl’s body would make him lustful. If you imagine, Motohama had to keep an eye on what the girls doing before taking the action” said Issei.
“You’re right about that, Issei” said Yuto.
Then, Motohama and Matsuda continues playing basketball where Motohama is good in stealing the ball while Matsuda recovers the ball by grabbing the ball with his right hand. When Motohama tries to shoot the ball with the jump shot, Matsuda swats the shot out of there before making the impact in using the drive. Motohama tries his best to steal the ball, but Matsuda proves Motohama too much where Matsuda drives past Motohama before shooting the ball with the layup. The next thing happens is when Motohama performs the combination of dribble and power step before goes for the spin move. Motohama shoots the three-point shot and the ball drives to the basket.
“A perfect three-point shot!” said Le Fay.
“That would make him smile after the ball goes in to the basket!” said Elmenhilde.
Matsuda performs the isolation move before doing the behind the back dribble. Matsuda would go for the up and under where he shoots the ball with his acceleration. Matsuda’s shot is a success after the ball drives to the basket.
“At least Matsuda is going to overcome his mistakes from the diceball match. I’m sure that there’s a consideration in making Matsuda being a role player” said Issei.
“Well, it depends on him, Issei. He should be quicker if he can detect any move Motohama using” said Yuto.
Motohama and Matsuda go back and forth in using their techniques before Matsuda’s three-point shot is successful.
“Alright, boys. Let’s call it a match!” said Issei.
Motohama and Matsuda are exhausted, huffing with their sweats are all over the body and their faces.
“Issei, did you have recruited your players?” asked Motohama.
“Yep” said Issei.
“Are those coming from the first year?” asked Matsuda.
“Definitely” said Issei.
“Uh, did you found something interested when you’re staying at the booth?” asked Motohama.
“Actually, there is a lavender-haired guy named Hiroshi Ozato. Hiroshi Ozato is a first year high school student and a content player who had a dream of becoming a starter for the Kikuchiba Academy High School boys’ basketball team” said Issei.
“Is he a pervert?” asked Matsuda.
“Uh, no, Matsuda. He’s a handsome guy who is always being ambivalent. He had a lot of friends during his middle school years and at least, a few of it join with him to enroll at the Kikuchiba Academy” said Issei.
“From what school he came from?” asked Motohama.
“He came from Shimoda Middle School, a school located in Nishi Rokugō” said Issei.
“It reminds me of one of my classmates named Yoshitsugu Ishida. Ah, Yoshitsugu has been handsome whenever he wears his glasses all day. He is the older brother of Itsuki Ishida. Uh, by the way, Issei, did you recognize some students from that school?” said Matsuda.
“Uh, no, Matsuda. But apparently, there are some students that I’m familiar with based on my research on Hiroshi. They are Ryōsuke Fujii and Aoi Wakasa. Ryōsuke is a first year high school student who loves to focus on flora and fauna of Japan and now studying in Nashiba High School. On the other hand, Aoi is also an elegant black-haired first year high school student who loves to create illustrations because she works as a member of an art committee in the manga industry known as Shiba Shoten” said Issei.
“I see that those people are very generous when they’re in Shimoda, but I can’t figure it out where Hiroshi lived in” said Motohama.
“Hmm… Issei, I believe that you’re tracing their careers while reading the application forms. Right?” said Matsuda.
“Uh, yeah… it’s true that I read the profiles of different applicants, but not including the two of you” said Issei.
Motohama and Matsuda are relieved after their application forms are not read by Issei.
“If you’re not reading our application forms, then who did?” asked Motohama.
“It’s the head coach of the Kikuchiba Academy High School boys’ basketball team Akihiro Shirogane” said Issei.
“Uh, the head coach of the Kikuchiba Academy High School boys’ basketball team? Akihiro Shirogane?” asked Motohama.
“I believe you’re right, Issei. Akihiro is a common head coach who had invented leverage strategies throughout his coaching career in Kikuchiba” said Yuto.
The flashback shows how Akihiro communicated with the players of Kikuchiba during a match against Tsubasa High School. Yuto explains to Issei, Motohama and Matsuda.
“Akihiro Shirogane is a formerly a basketball player from the same school he entered. Many students said that Akihiro had created leverage strategies in order to defeat their opponents with the use of run-and-gun and man-to-man defense. The players of Kikuchiba are very different than any other schools in Tokyo because they have capabilities of using their own special talents. Akihiro observes anyone with his eyes before he takes the action to pull off a strategy for them. One of the examples is the Straight-Out Amethyst.”
The players of Kikuchiba play their major role in doing the Straight-Out Amethyst where they will be forming a variant of the diamond formation where the captain faces the opponent’s captain in the top of the key.
“When they formed the Straight-Out Amethyst, they decided to use their stamina and strength while pressuring their opponents in order to match their level. Then, one player is about to pass or shoot, they will attack the offense by stopping them in force. It’s easy to receive defensive stops against your opponents because they’re focusing on the defense.”
The flashback ends after the players of Kikuchiba have successfully worked their strategy. Motohama questioned Yuto after the explanation. “I’m not sure if their opponents get surprised by that move. Did they get puzzled when the players of Kikuchiba used that strategy?”
“Yeah. The players of Kikuchiba are thought to be strict, but they have abilities to stop their opponents with the use of stamina and strength. Akihiro can let the players to form the Straight-Out Strategy if the players think that their opponents are good enough to stop Kikuchiba’s defense” said Yuto.
“Ah, I guess I believe that Akihiro is very good in forming the offense. There’s no doubt that the players of Kikuchiba are going to make sure that their opponents are going to lose their momentum once the intimidation comes out” said Motohama.
“Yeah, I agree with that, Motohama. That’s why you have to follow what our head coach said” said Issei.
“Okay!” said Motohama and Matsuda.
Akeno appears from the living room, calling the members of the Burnt Leaf. “Everyone! Your dinner is ready!”
“Okay!” said Issei, Elmenhilde, Le Fay, Yuto, Motohama and Matsuda.
At the dining area, the members of the Burnt Leaf are sitting together in a large table. The foods are now prepared and served.
“Thanks for the food!” said the members of the Burnt Leaf.
The members of the Burnt Leaf start eating their food by picking one dish to another. Then, twenty minutes later, they finish eating their food and start talking in a conversation.
“Issei, I don’t know if you’re analyzing the applicants who are going to participate at the tryout next week or not. Aren’t you?” said Asia.
“Yeah” said Issei.
“As soon as those players are going to participate at the tryout next week, do you think you can pick at least 4 or 5 players?” asked Asia.
“Uh, no, Asia. It’s the decision of the head coach to pick the players if they’re worthy to be good in using their skills based on the different categories: offense, defense, athleticism, stamina, mental strength, technique and special ability” said Issei.
“I hope that you’ll be able to pick the good ones, Issei. Remember, you have to trust them, so that they will be able to obey you” said Asia.
“Yeah, of course not, Asia! I will always do it!” said Issei.
“That’s great! Uh, also, I want to let you know that Motohama and Matsuda should be more careful on their actions because they’re also planning to join the Kendo Club” said Asia.
“Oh, you’re worrying about the Kendo Club, Asia. But why?” said Issei.
“It’s because the Kendo Club is a group of girls who are good in using kendo sticks. Murayama and Katase are already joining that club because of their recognition by the members of the Kendo Club. Their leader is Miho Okayama, a beautiful third year student. She is a classmate of Murayama because she came from section 6-C” said Asia.
“Miho usually likes to hang out with her friends and of course, I befriend her. That’s why Katase and I are going to join the Kendo Club, but Motohama and Matsuda want to become members too in order to spy on us” said Murayama.
“Yeah, our club is supposedly for girls only, but if Motohama and Matsuda joined the club instead of joining the basketball club, they are gonna destroy our prestigious club” said Katase, who is worrying about Motohama and Matsuda if they will join the Kendo Club instead of the basketball team.
“Ah, I understand about the problem, Murayama and Katase. You see, I supposedly lead the Student Council in Kuoh Academy, but since we’re all in Kikuchiba Academy, I might need help from the Kikuchiba Academy High School Student Council to control the situation. I’m sure that Miho is trying to find out if Motohama and Matsuda are going to join the club. If that happens, I will ask the two of them even they’re eager to peep at the beautiful girls in the club” said Xenovia.
“Okay, Xenovia! We’ll try our best to watch out for Motohama and Matsuda if they’re not accepted by the basketball team and instead joining the Kendo Club” said Murayama.
“If they’re coming at us, then you’ll do it for us!” said Katase.
“Oh, sure, I can handle this, Murayama and Katase. Don’t worry, I’m be here in no time if the situation is coming” said Xenovia.
“Okay!” said Murayama and Katase.
“Gee. That Xenovia is seemed to be strict like the other members of the Student Council in Kuoh Academy did. I mean, Sona Sitri is intelligent and Tsubaki Shinra is quiet. They’re very good with the use of water powers” said Motohama.
“You’re right, Motohama. If Akihiro is not accepting our admission to the basketball team, then we’ll be instead joining the Kendo Club. But if Akihiro is accepting our admission, then we should focus on another way to look at Murayama and Katase” said Matsuda.
“So, you’re thinking that you’re going to bet that if you’re going to join the basketball or the Kendo Club. Well, the two of us are betting on your admission too!” said Katase.
“Yeah! We’re warning you to stop peeping at any member of the Kendo Club. If the girls of the Kendo Club feel embarrassed just like us, then we’ll prepare you the worst nightmare of your lives!” said Murayama.
Motohama and Matsuda are scared of seeing Murayama’s eyes. The heating situation between Motohama and Matsuda and Murayama and Katase is getting escalated to the Kikuchiba Academy to the fact that Murayama and Katase are formerly members of the Kendo Club of the Kouh Academy.
“Ah, we won’t do that again, Murayama and Katase!” said Motohama.
“Just don’t spare us!” said Matsuda.
“Oh, well. I guess that I will you a warning for the two of you, perverts” said Murayama.
“There’s no secret to see us undressed because we’re living in another room that no one ever knows” said Katase.
“Uh, where do you two girls gonna sleep?” asked Motohama.
“It’s located in the top floor where it is beside the room of Issei” said Katase.
“Oh, can I see that room?” asked Matsuda.
Murayama slaps Matsuda on the face, angrily saying, “Oh no, you don’t, Matsuda!”
“Ow! That hurts!” said Matsuda.
“You can’t come to our room because it’s for girls only! If you try to get our lingerie to inspect them, then I will give you a beating like the way we did in the Kendo Club” said Murayama.
“Okay, okay, okay! I won’t do it!” said Matsuda.
“Yeah! We don’t want to get spanked by the two of you!” said Motohama.
Murayama and Katase sigh after Matsuda and Motohama pleaded not to let the two girls attack them if the two perverts are running to the room of Murayama and Katase.
“Okay, fine. But if you two are behave and not able to peek on us, then I will let the two of you accept to see our room” said Murayama.
Motohama and Matsuda happily accept the condition. “Okay!”
“Okay, remember your promise, Motohama and Matsuda. I will be keeping an eye on the two of you. Issei is also eying on you” said Katase.
“Okay!” said Motohama and Matsuda.
Issei sighs after the heated argument between the two lovely girls (Murayama and Katase) and the two perverts (Motohama and Matsuda). “Gee, I believe that Motohama and Matsuda are not getting tolerated due to the fact that they’re going to join the Kendo Club. I have to keep an eye on those two.”
Koneko is quiet after the heated argument between the two lovely girls and the two perverts. “Perverts or not, I will assist you and the girls to beat them.”
Reiji Matsumoto talks to Ravel about the idea of tracing the careers of the applicants of the basketball team. “Ravel, did you find familiar to the applicants?”
“Uh, no, Reiji. What are you talking about?” said Ravel.
“I believe that most of the applicants are coming from our first year class. What about yours?” said Reiji.
“Uh, there are at two students who are aiming to join the basketball team. They are Norio Oguma and Mototsugu Abe. Norio Oguma is my classmate and he’s very intimidating when he is curious about his friends trying to make fun of him” said Ravel.
“Is he your crush?” asked Reiji.
“Uh, no, Reiji. He’s not my crush, but I believe that he has granite eyes just like a man who is always bold for his actions” said Ravel.
Reiji smiles on his face to Ravel and softly laughs. “Bold for his actions? That’s an interesting idea to describe a boy like him.”
“You said it, Reiji. I’m not sure he is trying to talk to me, but I refuse to stand to meet him” said Ravel.
“Ravel, all you have to do is to express your feelings to him. Then, you have to be kind to him because he is your love interest. I mean, polygamy is prohibited in Japan, but Kurenese people can marry anyone without the conditions of the Japanese parents” said Reiji.
“Is Norio a Japanese?” asked Ravel.
“Uh, yeah, definitely, he’s a Japanese. Born in Meguro and he’s the only child of two parents who were working in Chiyoda” said Reiji.
“What am I going to do if Issei knows this? I might end up getting troubled by him if I will do it” said Ravel.
“Don’t think bad thoughts about your decision. On out mind, you should keep an eye on who are you talking with. My expression can be your expression if you’ll be able to do it” said Reiji.
“Okay, Reiji! I’ll do it!” said Ravel.
“That’s my girl!” said Gasper.
“I think Ravel is ready to meet the guy who has granite eyes and a bold personality” said Koneko.
“If I remember correctly, we know that the applicants of the Kikuchiba Academy Elementary School boys’ basketball team and I believe that they have different things to remember because some guys are sporting their colors different or sometimes wearing your favorite color of your shirt” said Asami Shimizu.
“Well, that’s my point, Asami, but to be honest, you know that many boys have bold personality. They are very different than the boys of Kuoh” said Gasper.
“If I remember correctly, Gasper, the boys of Kuoh are very less interested in being bold and handsome, but some guys like Genshirō Saji are very interested to woo a girl” said Le Fay.
“Ah, I get it. So, I believe that there’s a difference between the boys of Kuoh and the boys of Kikuchiba. I wonder if they will meet each other in person. Do you think the boys of Kikuchiba can outsmart the boys of Kuoh?” said Gasper.
“Well, it depends on their intelligence and talent” said Asami Shimizu.
“Oh, okay, I’m sure that both sides are going to interact each other no matter what they will do” said Gasper.
“Exactly!” said Asami Shimizu.
“Issei, once the Occult Research Club is back in business, we’ll start all over again. Who do you think who can lead the club?” said Rias.
“Apparently, Asia. She can handle everything” said Asia.
“Oh, okay. Then, we will ‘re-appoint’ Yuto as the vice president of the club. I’m sure Asia and Yuto are already knowing the plans for this year. It’s going to be different than the ones in Kuoh because we’re going to explore everything in the human world. Everything is gonna be fine if we can do it together” said Rias.
“Sure, Rias” said Issei.
“I’m sure that we’re going to find things interested once we’re going to find some new evidences about the relationship between the Kurenese people and the humans in the planet Earth” said Asia.
“We’re going to start tracing the races and when we get into it, we’ll be able to find some evidences that we need to put it all in our research. Also, while the internship is ongoing, we should communicate with anyone and get to know with them” said Yuto.
“So, are we in with the plan?” asked Asia.
“Yeah!” said the members of the Burnt Leaf.
“Good! Then, we’ll begin this in a few days and while the club registration week is ongoing, we’ll be going to see some names on who will be joining the new Occult Research Club. I think we can trace their roots as well!” said Asia.
“Yeah, Asia! Let’s make sure that we’ll be going to have at 100 members to join our club. We’ll gonna make it. Right, everyone?” said Yuto.
“Yeah!” said the members of the Burnt Leaf.
“Then, let’s leave this place and go up to our room! Later, let’s play card games!” said Yuto.
“Okay!” said the members of the Burnt Leaf. When the Burnt Leaf promised that they will establish the Occult Research Club, they finally did it. To make things interested, the Occult Research Club hopes that they will be able to have many members, so that they will start giving new duties to them as this is going to be the start of a new journey in the Kikuchiba Academy. Also, Issei hopes that his two best friends Motohama and Matsuda will be joining the basketball team as soon as they don’t act crazy to the two lovely ladies Murayama and Katase. The Burnt Leaf is ready to revolve things around the Kikuchiba Academy and hopefully, they are going to build their friendship with the students of the Kikuchiba Academy.
UP NEXT: Chapter 93: " A Double Play Encounter”
The Occult Research Club is finally back! This time, in Kikuchiba Academy. So, things are going to be more revolving throughout the story of Issei and his company as they will be ready to meet new friends and explore new information about the ties between the human world and the ‘crimson’ world. In the next update, there is no such thing as double trouble encounter as the Foul Play Crew are the next group to take their mission to find the associated groups of the New Camellian Dragons. Also, there will be more details about the associated groups of the New Camellian Dragons, in which the three remaining groups are going to make their appearance in last part of the sixth volume. I’ll see you on December 5 (Wednesday) for the next update!
