The Patreon page is now live! Unlock early access to multiple chapters every week, with posts scheduled from Monday to Friday. Additionally, a One Piece fanfiction awaits your exploration.
Here's the link: patreon.com/user?u=76259148
If the link doesn't work, search for this username: The_Omnipotent_Slayer
Also, participate in the free poll to help choose Koganei's love interest. You can help choose the story's female lead by heading to the Patreon page. Participating in the poll is free, so why not do it?
.
.
.
.
As the evening sun cast long shadows on the quiet street, Kenji Natsume found himself embroiled in a heated phone conversation with his mother. The cold exchange of words echoed through the air as Kenji stood resolutely in front of his aunt's residence in Shibuya, Tokyo. The disapproving voice on the other end sought to pull him back to their home back in Hiroshima, dismissing his current living situation with his aunt as if it were inconsequential.
"I told you to come back home. What are you doing all the way up in Tokyo, living with strangers?" his mother's voice laced with discontent.
Kenji's frustration boiled over, his retort filled with defiance, "Auntie isn't a stranger; she's more family than you've ever been!" He said with conviction, anger starting to build up from the argument he was having with his mother.
She, however, seemed unyielding, launching into a self-centered tirade that sought to diminish Kenji's sense of self-worth. The hurtful words poured through the phone, each phrase a jab at his pride.
"Do you see your stepbrother going to Tohoku University? Such a successful young man! Living the life you should be living. What have you achieved? You can't even bring home an acceptable report card while he has been accepted into one of the country's best universities. Aren't you ashamed of yourself?" Her words were a relentless assault, emphasizing the success of her stepson as a means to belittle Kenji and diminish his self-worth.
Kenji, usually confident and proud of himself, found himself momentarily silenced by the verbal onslaught. The weight of his mother's expectations bore down on him, leaving a bitter taste of inadequacy.
The barrage continued, each sentence more pointed than the last. "You're wasting your time in Tokyo, playing basketball. When are you going to grow up and be responsible?"
As Kenji absorbed the verbal abuse, the sting of his mother's words threatened to break through his tough exterior. The conversation became a battleground of emotions, with Kenji desperately trying to defend his choices and assert his independence.
"I don't care about your basketball nonsense. It won't get you anywhere. You should be focusing on a real future," his mother insisted, the disdain for the sport known as basketball palpable in her voice.
In that vulnerable moment, Kenji decided he had endured enough. With a sudden and assertive end to the call, he sought refuge on the steps leading to his aunt's residence. Ignoring the persistently ringing phone, he grappled with the emotional turmoil stirred by his mother's relentless criticism.
The persistent ringing of Kenji Natsume's phone echoed through the evening air, each call a reminder of the strained relationship with his mother. He sat on the steps, contemplating whether to answer, the weight of familial expectations heavy on his shoulders.
"She doesn't even care that I'm one of the best players in the country..." he muttered, frustration and hurt intertwining in his voice. The unspoken desire for acknowledgment lingered, his achievements as a basketball player seemingly overshadowed by his mother's indifference. He originally called her to announce the news about him being called for the basketball camp. However, instead of receiving praise, he got berated.
Amidst his silent lament, warm hands enveloped him from behind. The unexpected embrace startled him, but a familiar scent and the gentle touch reassured him. It was his aunt, Chiyo Natsume, his deceased father's sister. A connection that ran deeper than blood, offering solace in moments of emotional turmoil.
The embrace spoke volumes, conveying a sense of understanding that transcended words. Kenji, usually resistant to such displays of affection, allowed himself to be comforted by the one person he trusted. The unspoken reassurance hung in the air, dispelling the loneliness that threatened to consume him.
As Chiyo held him, she offered words of comfort, assuring him that staying in Tokyo was a choice he could make without fear of repercussions from his mother. The history of strained relations seemed to dissolve in the face of Chiyo's support.
Gratitude surfaced in Kenji's response, a simple yet heartfelt "thank you." The relief of being seen and cared for created a sanctuary in that moment on the steps.
The question of relocating to Kanagawa lingered in the air, a decision that would shape Kenji's immediate future. Chiyo, with a smile that spoke of newfound opportunities, shared that she had secured a better job in Tokyo, eliminating the need for a disruptive move.
Her commitment to ensuring Kenji's well-being revealed itself in her efforts to keep him in a place where he had recently found camaraderie. A couple of days prior, Chiyo had witnessed Kenji enjoying the company of a couple of teenagers at a local park. Recognizing the significance of these budding connections he's creating, she has resolved to make a conscious effort to build a stable life for the two of them in Tokyo.
The dialogue shifted to the practicalities of school choices, a topic Kenji hadn't considered in the midst of potential relocation. Uncertainty clouded his expression as he grappled with the unfamiliar terrain of school decisions.
Understanding his predicament, Chiyo gently suggested he consult with his newfound friends about their school choices. Despite initial hesitance, Kenji reluctantly agreed, recognizing the wisdom in seeking advice from those who had become integral to his Tokyo life.
A moment of quiet appreciation passed between aunt and nephew, their unspoken bond reinforced by shared glances and a mutual understanding. The impending dinner called them inside, a simple yet meaningful family ritual awaiting them as they navigated the complexities of life together.
.
.
.
The early morning light crept through the curtains, gently rousing Shinji Koganei from his slumber. A glance at the clock confirmed the time – 6 AM. It was the beginning of another day, but this time, Koganei had a subtle shift in his routine. The air was charged with a sense of purpose as he prepared to elevate his training regimen.
His usual routine, a meticulous focus on skill development with an emphasis on ball handling and mid-range shooting, now embraced an additional dimension. Koganei decided to intensify his efforts, leveraging the resources available in the affluent neighborhood where he resided. Among the amenities catering to their desires was a 24/7 gym, a haven for those dedicated to pushing their physical limits.
As a former trainer with a wealth of knowledge and experience, Koganei delved into the gym's array of equipment, each piece a tool for enhancing his physical qualities. The metallic clinks and whirs echoed in the quiet gym as he methodically moved from one station to another, his focus unwavering. Two hours elapsed in a whirlwind of exertion, sweat, and determination.
By the time he emerged from the gym, the clock striking 8 AM, Koganei bore the signs of his intensified efforts. Fatigue clung to his limbs, a testament to the rigorous training session he had undertaken. Yet, an underlying confidence emanated from him, rooted in the knowledge that his unique abilities bestowed upon him a swifter recovery than the average athlete.
Returning home, the exhaustion prompted a quick decision – a revitalizing shower to wash away the physical toll of the morning's endeavors. The cascade of warm water offered a moment of reprieve, cleansing both body and mind.
As droplets trickled down his face, Koganei's thoughts shifted to the impending afternoon training session. The accelerated recovery afforded by his enhanced abilities alleviated any concerns about being unable to fully participate. Instead, a new goal crystallized in his mind – crafting a training plan that would capitalize on his accelerated recovery.
"I need to maximize it," he mused, the words echoing in the solitude of the shower. With a towel draped over his shoulders, Koganei embarked on the next phase of his day, fueled by a determination to push his limits and extract every ounce of potential from his unique capabilities.
The morning sun painted a warm glow across the room as Shinji Koganei descended from his shower, the rejuvenating water having washed away the remnants of his intense early morning training session. The enticing aroma of breakfast greeted him as he reached the kitchen, where a carefully prepared meal awaited him, courtesy of his absent sister.
Akane, immersed in her role as a valuable aide on their parents' filming set, had left behind a nourishing breakfast for her younger brother. Koganei chuckled to himself, acknowledging that despite her dedication, she couldn't match the intensity of his morning training routine. The realization brought a smile to his face as he savored the thought.
Seated at the table, he relished the meal, contemplating the day ahead. With his sister engrossed in her responsibilities, Koganei seized the opportunity to delve into his studies. The textbooks and notebooks scattered across his desk bore witness to his commitment to finishing the year's curriculum before its conclusion. Aiming to complete both the first and second-year syllabi by month-end, he immersed himself in the familiar material, having traversed the high school journey once before.
The morning hours dissolved into a diligent study session, interrupted only by the occasional scribble of notes and the turning of pages. By 10 AM, Koganei rose from his desk, a decisive expression on his face. Navigating to a corner of his room, he retrieved a camera, a pivotal tool in his burgeoning YouTube venture.
Positioning himself at his desk, Koganei embarked on a meticulous breakdown of the recent game between the Spurs and the Thunder. The plays and moments, meticulously scripted, reviewed and highlighted, became the focal points of his analysis. The process, a delicate balance between conveying insightful points and infusing an entertaining flair, unfolded over three dedicated hours.
The camera lens captured his every word and gesture, a testament to the perfectionism that underpinned his content creation. Multiple takes were warranted to ensure the seamless blend of analysis and entertainment. At last, the final cut emerged, a polished product that satisfied Koganei's exacting standards. Satisfied, he promptly dispatched the footage to his sister via email.
The clock striking 1 PM signaled the completion of his filming session. Eager to savor the afternoon and perhaps explore culinary delights, Koganei stepped out of the confines of his house. The bustling world beyond awaited, and with his duties fulfilled, he set out, guided by the dual passions of basketball and content creation that shaped his distinctive routine.
.
.
The afternoon sun cast long shadows as Shinji Koganei, fueled by the satisfaction of a well-rounded lunch, geared up for another session of basketball practice. Exiting his home, he embarked on the familiar journey to the park, his stride reflecting the determination that characterized his approach to training.
As he sprinted towards the court, Koganei couldn't help but revel in the noticeable recovery of his energy since the morning's intense workout. A contented smile graced his features, prompting a decision to push his physical limits incrementally, a daily challenge he willingly embraced.
Upon reaching the park, his keen eyes spotted Kenji and Asuma engaged in a conversation on the court. Despite sharing the training grounds for over ten days, their interactions had not transcended the realm of basketball. Observing their somewhat awkward exchange, Koganei decided to linger on the sidelines, granting them the space to foster a genuine connection.
Aware of his intention to invite Kenji into the Seirin team, Koganei recognized the significance of letting him forge connections beyond the confines of their practice sessions. Among the current Seirin members, only Koganei and Mitobe could claim any degree of camaraderie with Kenji. The rest remained acquaintances bonded by the common pursuit of basketball excellence.
Observing from a distance, Koganei's smile persisted as the minutes ticked by, witnessing the gradual warmth between the two players. Kenji, with his pride and competitive edge, found an affable counterpart in Asuma, who, having navigated the personalities of Coach Kimura and his teammates, approached interactions with ease.
Fifteen minutes passed in a harmonious dance of conversation and shared laughter. Satisfied that the ice had broken, Koganei joined Mitobe, who had strolled onto the court. The duo patiently waited for the right moment to integrate into the ongoing camaraderie.
As the rest of the Seirin members trickled onto the court, the collective energy surged, marking the commencement of their training session. The rhythmic sounds of dribbling, sneakers on pavement, and the occasional swish of a successful shot became the soundtrack of their dedicated efforts.
Throughout the practice, Koganei, attuned to the nuances of his teammates, sensed a palpable tension emanating from Kenji. The telltale signs of something on his mind were apparent, yet the newcomer seemed hesitant to voice it. Unwilling to press, Koganei maintained an air of obliviousness, opting to let Kenji approach him when ready.
The workout unfolded seamlessly, each player pushing their limits and refining their skills under the watchful eye of the waning sun. As the session concluded and the group dispersed, Koganei's confusion lingered – Kenji, seemingly burdened with unspoken words, remained silent. Walking home alongside Mitobe, the mysteries of the day accompanied them.
.
.
"Isn't there, like, not much of a difference?" Shinji questioned anxiously, feeling his confidence take a hit. Across from him, Hirano Koganei, his mother, gave a slight shake of her head. Meanwhile, Akane, Shinji's sister, couldn't hide her amusement, snickering as she pretended not to eavesdrop on their conversation.
"You know I love you, baby. But comparing your email to hers is like comparing the beauty of a cockroach to that of Beyoncé," Hirano responded, her tone apologetic yet brutally honest. She could sense her son's disappointment but felt compelled to be truthful.
Disheartened, Shinji trudged over to the couch, a portrait of defeat. Akane, despite trying not to pay attention to them, couldn't help but burst into laughter. Even Hirano, reflecting on past challenges with Akane, admitted that not even she, as their mother, could outshine her daughter in a writing contest.
Shaking off the memories, Hirano approached Shinji to offer consolation. However, it didn't take long for his resilient spirit to resurface. He resolved to never venture into professional writing, reassuring himself with the thought of having a literary genius as a sister. "Why bother when I've got a genius with me?" he mumbled, trying to regain his composure.
After a brief interlude, Shinji rose from the couch and ascended the stairs, shooting a disdainful look at Akane, who wore a triumphant smile. "Don't forget to send MY email to them!" Akane called out, emphasizing the possessive 'MY.' As Shinji disappeared from view, he clenched his fists, momentarily tempted to return downstairs. Yet, the realization that both his parents were home prompted him to quell the impulse and continue his retreat upstairs.