Blue Lock: Isagi the egoist

The JFU cruiser glided smoothly into Japanese waters, the skyline of Tokyo looming in the distance. Onboard, the air was a mix of excitement and tension. Isagi Yoichi and Itoshi Sae, returning from their reign in Spain, were the subjects of attention as a press conference had been arranged onboard. Cameras flashed, reporters jostled for position, and questions were hurled their way as the two prodigies took their seats.

The first question came quickly, directed at Sae:

"Itoshi Sae, now that you're back, will we see you donning the jersey of the Japanese national team?"

Sae's expression turned cold, his sharp features intimidating as he delivered his response.

"Japan's national team? Let me put it this way: I'd rather play with German middle schoolers who kick a ball during recess than waste my time here. If this country wants to be taken seriously in soccer, it needs to start from scratch."

The room went silent, shocked at his blunt dismissal.

The next question turned to Isagi:

"Isagi Yoichi, do you agree with Itoshi Sae? Will you play for Japan?"

Isagi's calm demeanor didn't falter. His piercing gaze scanned the room before he leaned forward, his voice steady and resolute.

"For now, Sae and I have to focus on becoming better. Sure, I could be a forward for Japan and promise you a World Cup, but let's be real—no solo player can save that atrocity of a team. Fix the system, and then maybe we'll talk."

Without waiting for further questions, Isagi stood up, signaling the end of the interview. Sae followed, both walking out of the room with an air of finality that left the reporters in stunned silence.

As they wandered through the ship's lower levels, the two stumbled upon a meeting room. Peering inside, they overheard Anri Teieri, a young woman with sharp eyes and an earnest voice, speaking passionately to JFU officials about a new initiative: Blue Lock.

"This project is the future of Japanese soccer," Anri declared, "and it will launch at the perfect time to cultivate a generation of strikers who can lead Japan to international success."

After he heard the dtae of the launch, Isagi's mind raced as he did the math. "Sae will be 18, and I'll be 17 when this launches," he murmured.

Unable to hold back his curiosity, Isagi gently knocked and entered the room, Sae right behind him.

"Excuse me," Isagi began, his voice smooth but firm, "I couldn't help overhearing. This 'Blue Lock' sounds interesting, but let's be clear: Japan needs to improve for either of us to consider joining."

Standing next to Anri, their towering presence was undeniable. Anri, caught off guard by how handsome and confident the two young stars looked up close, found herself momentarily speechless.

Isagi continued, "If Blue Lock and this Jinpachi Ego can make that happen, then maybe there's hope. Otherwise, don't waste your time—or ours."

Sae gave a curt nod. "We'll be watching."

With that, they left the room, leaving Anri both flustered and inspired.

As the ship docked in Tokyo Bay, Isagi and Sae stepped off to the roar of fans and reporters. The two exchanged a chill bro-hug and a dap.

"Don't slack off, Sae," Isagi teased.

"You either, Yoichi," Sae replied with a smirk.

Sae left for his family home, while Isagi was greeted by his parents, Issei and Iyo. His father gave him a firm pat on the back, pride evident in his eyes.

"It's been a long time, son," Issei said warmly.

"Too long," Isagi replied, grinning. "Let's go eat. I'm starving."

Sae arrived home to find Rin training outside, his younger brother's determination etched into every movement. As Sae approached, Rin paused, his eyes lighting up.

"Nii-chan! Did you win in Spain? Did you—"

Sae cut him off, his voice cold. "Rin, I have a new dream now. And it has nothing to do with you."

Rin froze, stunned. "What are you talking about?"

"I'm not your motivation anymore. Stop chasing me. Find your own path—or don't. I don't care."

Sae challenged Rin to a one-on-one, and though Rin gave his all, he was utterly outclassed. Sae dominated, leaving Rin beaten and humiliated.

As Sae walked away, he delivered a final blow. "You'll never be good enough if all you care about is me."

Rin's despair turned to anger—a burning fury directed squarely at his brother.

The Isagi family made their way to Shibuya for a day out. While strolling through the bustling streets, they bumped into the Chigiri family. Neneko Chigiri and her daughter, the strikingly beautiful Koyuki, both gasped upon seeing Isagi.

"You're back!" Neneko exclaimed, pulling him into a tight hug.

Isagi chuckled, hugging her back as she planted a kiss on his cheek. Her daughter wasn't far behind, mirroring her mother's actions with a playful smirk.

Iyo raised an eyebrow. "Who are these two?"

Isagi scratched the back of his head sheepishly. "Ah, my girlfriends from Spain. I didn't know they'd be here, but it's a nice surprise."

The group spent the rest of the day together, laughing and bonding. As the evening came, Isagi lay in bed, staring at the ceiling. Despite the joy of reuniting with his family and friends, his mind kept drifting back to soccer.

"I already miss Spain," he thought, smirking. "But this Blue Lock thing… maybe it'll be fun."

With that thought, he drifted off to sleep, dreaming of what was to come.