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[Scene: A high school football field, where a young player named Kirito trains with unwavering dedication. Kirito is a talented young footballer with big dreams and an even bigger role model—Marshal Kirigaya, the legend. Kirito has followed Marshal’s career since he was a child, watching every match, studying his moves, and hoping one day to reach the same heights.]
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Kirito’s Determination
[It’s a crisp autumn afternoon, and Kirito stays behind after school to practice his shooting. With each kick, he imagines himself playing alongside the greatest. He knows it’s a long road to becoming a professional, but his ambition burns brightly. He’s determined to give everything to achieve his dream.]
Kirito: (to himself) “Just like Marshal… I want to be just like Marshal Kirigaya.”
[His friends on the team watch from a distance, impressed by his dedication.]
Friend 1: “Kirito never stops, does he? He’s here every day, even after practice is over.”
Friend 2: “Yeah, he says he wants to be like Marshal. That’s a high goal to aim for.”
Kirito: (smiling) “It’s a long way to go, but someday… I’ll make it. And maybe, just maybe, I’ll get to meet him.”
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The Event Announcement
[A few weeks later, Kirito’s school announces that Marshal Kirigaya will be attending a special event as a guest speaker. Kirito can hardly believe it. His hero, the player he idolizes, is coming to his school. It’s a dream come true, and Kirito decides he has to make the most of this opportunity.]
Kirito: (excitedly to his friends) “This is my chance! I’ll get to meet him, tell him about my dream. Maybe… maybe he’ll give me some advice!”
Friend 1: “This is amazing, Kirito! You’ve been working so hard. You deserve this.”
[As the day of the event approaches, Kirito feels both excited and nervous. He’s practiced what he wants to say to Marshal, hoping he’ll be able to express how much he admires him and share his dream of becoming a professional player.]
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The Day of the Event
[The gymnasium is packed with students and teachers, all gathered to see the famous footballer Marshal Kirigaya. Marshal enters to roaring applause, smiling as he waves to the crowd. As he begins to speak about his journey, his challenges, and the importance of hard work, Kirito listens intently, absorbing every word.]
Marshal: “Success in football, or in any field, is about dedication, passion, and resilience. I didn’t reach the top alone—I had people who believed in me and pushed me to be better. Never forget that with hard work and heart, you can achieve great things.”
[After his speech, there’s a Q&A session. Kirito, his heart pounding, raises his hand, and to his amazement, Marshal calls on him.]
Marshal: (pointing to Kirito) “You there, go ahead.”
Kirito: (standing, a bit nervous) “Um, Mr. Kirigaya, you’ve been my hero for as long as I can remember. I want to be a professional player like you. I know it’s a big dream, but… I want to make it real.”
Marshal: (smiling warmly) “That’s a great dream, young man. What’s your name?”
Kirito: “Kirito. I’ve been training every day, trying to follow in your footsteps.”
Marshal: (nodding with approval) “Well, Kirito, that’s where it all begins. Hard work, dedication, and the willingness to keep going even when things get tough. If you’re serious about this, maybe I can help you.”
[The crowd murmurs with excitement, and Kirito’s eyes widen. He can hardly believe what he’s hearing.]
Kirito: “Really? You’d… you’d help me?”
Marshal: “Absolutely. I know what it’s like to have a dream like yours, and sometimes, a little guidance can make all the difference. If you’re willing to put in the effort, I’ll be there to guide you.”
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Training with Marshal
[In the weeks that follow, Kirito begins training with Marshal. It’s a challenging experience, as Marshal pushes him to his limits, teaching him not only technical skills but also the mental strength needed to succeed.]
[They practice shooting, passing, and stamina drills, with Marshal focusing on every detail, ensuring Kirito understands each technique and strategy.]
Marshal: “Remember, Kirito, it’s not just about physical ability. A great player thinks three steps ahead. Always read the game, anticipate where the ball will go, and position yourself accordingly.”
Kirito: (breathless but determined) “Got it, Marshal! I’ll keep that in mind.”
[Marshal smiles, seeing a bit of himself in the young player’s determination. Kirito’s commitment and willingness to learn remind him of his own journey.]
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Lessons Beyond the Field
[Aside from football techniques, Marshal teaches Kirito about discipline, teamwork, and humility—values that have guided him throughout his career.]
Marshal: “Football isn’t just a sport; it’s a team effort. Your teammates are just as important as your own skill. Learn to trust them, and they’ll trust you.”
Kirito: (nodding) “I’ll remember that. Thank you for everything, Marshal.”
Marshal: “You have a lot of potential, Kirito. Keep going, keep improving, and don’t let anything hold you back.”
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A Special Moment
[After months of training, Marshal organizes a small match between Kirito’s school team and a youth academy team. During the game, Kirito applies everything he’s learned, showing remarkable skill, vision, and composure on the field. Marshal watches from the sidelines, proud of how much his young protégé has grown.]
[At the end of the match, Kirito’s team wins, and his teammates lift him up, celebrating his contributions. Marshal approaches him with a big smile.]
Marshal: “Well done, Kirito! You played beautifully out there.”
Kirito: (grinning) “I couldn’t have done it without you, Marshal. Thank you… for everything.”
Marshal: “This is just the beginning, Kirito. Keep working hard, and one day, you’ll be out there on the professional stage, making your dreams a reality.”
[Kirito, filled with gratitude and excitement, nods with determination, knowing he has the support of his hero.]
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The Promise
[As they walk off the field together, Marshal places a reassuring hand on Kirito’s shoulder.]
Marshal: “One day, I’ll be watching you from the stands, cheering you on. And remember, no matter where this journey takes you, stay true to yourself and keep playing with heart.”
Kirito: “I will, Marshal. I promise.”
[They share a handshake, a moment of shared respect and admiration. Kirito feels ready for whatever challenges lie ahead, knowing that he has learned from one of the best. With Marshal’s guidance, his dream feels closer than ever, and he steps forward, ready to chase greatness.]
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[As Kirito continues his journey, he carries with him the lessons and inspiration from Marshal, determined to make his mark on the world of football and one day stand as a legend in his own right.]
YOU ARE READING
Dribble of Love
Short StoryThis is a heartfelt story about Marshal, a star football player with dreams of greatness, and Yuki, a dedicated badminton player with quiet strength and elegance. Marshal, known for his intense drive and ambition, finds himself unexpectedly captivat...
