THE PAIN - Inazuma Eleven Go Fanfic

CHAPTER 64: MENTOR

FLASHBACK

Endou studied him carefully, his sharp gaze searching for something—anything—that would give him a glimpse of the truth buried beneath Arion's cold composure.

But Arion didn't waver. He stood there, calm, distant, as if the weight of everything that had just happened barely touched him.

Endou exhaled, his expression shifting—less rigid, yet still firm.

"Alright," he said, at last, his tone measured. "If this is what you want... then fine."

He let the words settle for a beat before swiftly continuing.

"But I have something to ask you." His voice carried an edge of quiet resolve. "In exchange for keeping quiet."

Arion's eyes flickered with something indistinct, the barest hint of curiosity breaking through his mask of indifference.

He tilted his head slightly.

"...Go on."

"I want you to help Raimon."

For the first time that evening, Arion's expression shifted—subtle, but there. His posture remained composed, but his golden eyes darkened slightly, his intrigue giving way to something more guarded.

"Help Raimon?" His tone was neutral, but there was a flicker of something beneath the surface. "That's a rather bold request, Coach Endou."

Endou didn't back down. His stance was unwavering, his eyes locked onto Arion's.

"The team is struggling," he admitted. "Ever since you left, things haven't been the same. They need someone to push them forward."

"You're asking for something impossible, Coach." His words were measured, but beneath them was a clear warning. "I told you—I'm not the person you once knew. That part of me is gone."

Endou took a step closer, undeterred. "I don't believe that." His tone softened, but the conviction in his voice remained firm. "You can tell yourself that all you want, but deep down, you still care. I know you do."

Arion scoffed, crossing his arms. "Even if I did, what difference would it make?" His golden eyes glinted under the lantern's glow, frustration creeping into his expression. "I'm not the answer you're looking for. They need someone else."

"It doesn't have to be Matsukaze Tenma," Endou countered, his voice steady but imploring. "I'm not asking for him."

Arion stilled.

"I want you to train them as Arion Sherwind."

The name hung between them, heavy with meaning.

Arion's jaw tightened, his hands balling into fists at his sides. "And why would I do that?"

Endou's gaze softened. "Because no matter what name you go by... you've never been the kind of person to turn your back on those who need you."

A tense silence followed, filled only by the distant hum of the gala. The flickering lantern light cast shifting shadows over Arion's face, highlighting the internal battle raging within him.

For the first time in a long time... he hesitated.

His fingers curled slightly at his sides, his golden eyes clouded with something unreadable. Then, finally, he spoke, his voice quieter, but laced with something raw.

"Why does it have to be me, Coach Endou?" His voice, when it came, was quieter, as if speaking the words aloud solidified the weight of them.

Endou exhaled, his expression persistent. "Because you understand them," he said simply. "Because you've fought alongside them. Because no matter how much you try to convince yourself otherwise, they still matter to you."