Chapter 961

Yasui Ryouto had also extended invitations several times, but had been clearly rejected just as many. Seeing that Natsume Chikage's attitude remained firm, he understood that saying more would be useless.

He patted Natsume Chikage on the shoulder once more, this time with a much lighter touch, his tone earnest and understanding.

"Everyone has the right to choose their own path. Since you've decided, I, as your senior, won't nag you anymore."

"Whether it's shogi, collecting, or baseball… finding the path you love and sticking to it is what's truly cool."

His expression turned solemn.

"However, as your senior and also your opponent in shogi, I want you to promise me one thing."

"In tomorrow's sixth round, no matter who the opponent is, no matter how difficult the situation, you must give it your all! Leave no regrets!"

Hearing about the match, Araki Yuai also remembered something. She suddenly widened her eyes, placed her hands on her hips, and said in an even more solemn tone.

"Right! And another thing! If you're unlucky and run into those jerks from Private Tenhao Academy who think they're better than everyone else…"

She gritted her teeth, as if recalling an unpleasant experience.

"You must win against them just like you did against that jerk last time! Avenge me, your Senior Yuai!"

Nomura Tomohiro nodded heavily in reminder, carrying the sentiment of someone who had been through it all.

"That's right! Winning or losing is important, but a player's character and integrity must never be lost!"

"Even if you lose the game due to a lack of skill, you must never lose your spirit! Show the proper resolve!"

He glanced at Araki Yuai.

"Learn from Yuai; when it's time to scold them back… well, expressing our stance within the rules is perfectly fine!"

Natsume Chikage felt a warmth in his heart as he looked at the three people before him—a senior, a senior, and a teacher—who, despite their different styles, all held goodwill and expectations for him.

He put away his smile, nodded earnestly and forcefully, his eyes bright and firm.

"I will!"

"I'll give it my all." ===== CHAPTER 962 =====