Chapter 47: Chapter 47: Sparks of Progress and Chaos
Six days had passed since the intense training began. Ippo's improvement was evident in every drill and exercise.
During their morning run, he was no longer trailing behind. His strides were longer, his breathing controlled, and he kept pace with everyone. Even Takamura gave an approving nod as Ippo surged ahead at times.
"Not bad, Ippo!" Kimura shouted, half-teasing. "You're finally running like a man instead of a turtle!"
In the gym, during the tennis ball drill, Ippo's transformation shone. Kimura threw the balls in rapid succession, left and right, yet Ippo's feet moved swiftly and precisely. Not a single ball hit the ground.
Kimura whistled. "Damn, rookie! You're making me look bad now."
Ippo laughed nervously, scratching the back of his head. "I've just been practicing."
The real test came during sparring. Ippo faced Kimura again, but this time, the tables turned. Ippo's punches were sharper and faster. His improved speed and balance left Kimura scrambling to keep up.
"Whoa! Where'd this come from?" Kimura muttered as he narrowly dodged a quick one-two combo.
Ippo pressed forward, his confidence growing with every punch. Sweat poured from Kimura's face as he desperately defended himself, his energy waning. Just as Ippo wound up for a clean shot to Kimura's face, the bell rang, saving him.
Kimura slumped against the ropes, panting. "That bell is my hero. Ippo, you're turning into a monster!"
The group laughed as Ippo smiled sheepishly.
The day continued with shadowboxing sessions, everyone pushing themselves to the limit. By evening, they were all exhausted, yet the sense of accomplishment was palpable.
Later that night, Takamura had a mischievous glint in his eyes as he pulled Alex aside.
"Hey, kid. I got something fun planned,"
Takamura said, holding up a bag.
"What's in there?" Alex asked.
"Fireworks! Let's give everyone a surprise."
Alex grinned. "Sounds fun. Let's do it."
The two snuck off to gather everyone outside.
"Alright, losers," Takamura announced, holding up a long firework tube. "Prepare to witness the greatest fireworks show of your lives!"
Aoki squinted. "That thing doesn't look reliable…"
"Shut up and watch!" Takamura snapped, setting the firework in place.
He lit the fuse, but nothing happened. Everyone stared at it in silence.
"Really?" Kimura said, crossing his arms.
Takamura growled and kicked the firework in frustration. "Stupid thing—"
"Let me try," Kimura said, lighting a new one. This time, the firework shot into the sky, exploding in a cascade of brilliant colors.
"Wow!" Ippo exclaimed, his eyes wide as he watched the shimmering lights.
The group stood in awe, marveling at the display.
But amidst their admiration, the earlier dud firework suddenly reignited. A spark shot from its fuse, and the firework launched—straight at the group!
"Run!" Takamura yelled.
Chaos ensued as they scattered in all directions. Ippo tripped over his feet, Aoki and Kimura collided into each other, and Alex barely dodged the projectile. The firework spiraled crazily before exploding harmlessly in the sand, leaving them all in a heap.
As the smoke cleared, they stared at each other in silence before bursting into laughter.
"Who knew fireworks could be this dangerous?" Alex said, wiping tears of laughter from his eyes.
Takamura smirked. "That's why I'm the genius who makes training camp fun!"
The group spent the rest of the night lighting the rest of the fireworks—carefully this time—creating memories filled with laughter, friendship, and a little bit of chaos.
To be continued…
Weekly Power Status
-- Power
Ranking 
-- Power
stone