บท 67: CHAPTER 66 - In Progress (1)

In a buzzing clinic, Ichiro was slowly regaining consciousness. The fluorescent lights overhead flickered, and the distant murmur of students echoed through the narrow hallway outside. His vision was still a bit blurry, but he knew right away that he was back in the school clinic.

"I guess I lost," Ichiro mumbled to himself, feeling a dull ache in his head as he closed his eyes.

"Says who?"

The voice caught Ichiro off guard. He opened his eyes wide, his blurry vision now focused on the unexpected presence in the room. Seated on a chair by his bedside was Patriarch Naruhito, the venerable martial arts master who had trained Ichiro since he was a novice.

"Master?" Ichiro exclaimed, a mix of surprise and confusion.

"Easy there," Master Naruhito said with a gentle smile, his weathered face expressing both concern and reassurance. "You should stay laying down."