Chapter Text
France really was extraordinary. Scorching sun, colourful buildings; what an amazing place. Clutching a PxG ticket in his hand, Isagi enthusiastically strolled through the vibrant streets of Paris. Ego had previously ordered Isagi to take a flight to France; urging him to witness this particular match. The sun's shine felt intoxicating, a constant pressure against his skin. However, this didnt bother Isagi in the slightest.
"Only a 10 minute walk and I'll be there!" Isagi hummed exuberantly.
This really was like a mini vacation. Closing his eyes, Isagi basked in the warm heat radiating from the sun. The streets were loud and lively; many people ecstatic regarding the PxG versus Lon football match.
After the events of the Neo Egoist League, each of the 5 teams that participated completely exploded in popularity; PxG being one of them. In addition, Blue Lock itself became renowned as a successful project, boosting potential investments and merch sales. Even in France, Isagi swore he spotted miniature figurines of him, Hiori, Yukimiya and Kurona. Seeing his friends receiving the attention they deserved drastically boosted his mood.
Lost in his thoughts, Isagi sauntered straight into someone's arms. Only now realising walking around with his eyes shut was a terrible and dangerous idea in a populated foreign street, he immediately snapped his eyes open.
"I'm so sorry!" He exclaimed, stepping out of the person's grasp and bowing down in shame.
Glancing upwards, Isagi's eyes widened in surprise. His first thought was that this guy is extremely tall. Already envious, Isagi made a quick analysis on this stranger. He had an athletic build, burgundy hair, dark soulless eyes and was holding what seemed to be a book. He wore a white vest, black shorts, white socks paired with black trainers.
His eyes were beautiful upon further inspection. Almond shaped with the darkest shade of onyx available. He had long, fluttering lashes etched horizontally. Isagi's focus further lowered to his thighs, which were strong and muscly and-
Isagi slapped his face with both hands to stop those intruding thoughts. Not the time!
The man studied Isagi briefly. His gaze was heavy; a relentless attack that shivered Isagi to the core. He muttered something in rapid French and that's when Isagi realised how awkward the situation really was.
Feeling around in his pockets, Isagi was engulfed in a feeling of relief as he took out the Mikage earbuds that he used in the Neo Egoist League. Making a mental note to thank Reo, he grasped a singular earbud and extended his hand to the stranger. The man skeptically looked at the earbud before grabbing and placing the small object in his ear. Isagi did the same with the other earbud and watched the man expectantly.
"Isagi Yoichi, am I correct?"
That caught Isagi off guard. Stealing another glance, the man was clearly waiting for a response. Isagi smiled pleasantly at him and said, "Hello! Yes, I am Isagi."
The man's eyebrows furrowed before he quickly relaxed them. This really was awkward.
"I'm Hugo, Vivian Hugo. It is wonderful to finally meet you, Japan's hero." The man said.
Hugo offered his hand, prompting a handshake. Isagi reluctantly offered his own hand to the man. Hugo's hand was large, much larger than his own. This made Isagi feel rather insecure about his smaller build.
Abruptly, a familiar figure exited the building next to both Isagi and Hugo.
"Loki?!"
"Isagi?!"
Both exclaimed at once, comically glaring at each other.
Isagi suddenly became self aware about how he... criticised Loki's abilities in the past. Perhaps calling him a pace merchant on live TV was not the best idea at the time. Snatching his hand away from Hugo's grasp, Isagi took a few steps back away from the two as a way to escape this situation. Loki was scowling, his face contorted with rage. On the other hand Hugo, only stared at Isagi in his apparent awkward fashion. However, amusement was visible in his eyes.
"Vivian, what is your business with Isagi of all people?" Loki asked judgingly. His distaste regarding anything to do with Isagi was quite evident. "And you," continued Loki as he returned to glowering at Isagi, "What are you doing here?"
Before Isagi could even defend himself, Hugo spoke up. Giving Loki the most deadpan stare in existence, he stated calmly, "Just an accidental collision, Julian. You're getting so worked up over nothing."
Loki looked even more irritated now. His attention now concentrated back onto Hugo, his features even more enraged than before.
Isagi decided now was the best time to escape. Quietly, he attempted to duck into a local flower shop. Unfortunately, Hugo's gaze was locked onto Isagi's movement and immediately grabbed his wrist firmly.
Hugo stared blankly at Isagi, unimpressed by his attempt at freedom. "And where do you think you're going? I would like to have a conversation with you, Japan's hero."
Now frowning, Isagi wondered whether all foreigners liked to disregard people's personal space. Kaiser was bad enough, and now this tall French guy? Just picturing Kaiser's smug face angered Isagi immensely. Not now!
"Do all you foreigners like touching people?" Isagi scowled, discreet aggression laced in his question.
For a split second, Hugo's eyes widened before returning back to that nonchalant stare. His grip further tightened, rendering Isagi powerless to any more escapades.
"And what if I do?"
Isagi yanked his arm away, face flushing red. "So you just walk up to random strangers all the time and grab them?"
"I seem to recall you being the one to bump into me."
This smug bastard had a point. Isagi was the one who crashed into him. However, that doesn't particularly mean Isagi has to owe him anything... right?
"So I believe you at least owe me a little chat."
This consulting bastard really knew what to say to piss Isagi off. Hugo and his radiant burgundy hair, Hugo and his hollow eyes, Hugo and his thick thighs-
"I don't owe you shit," Isagi started, "and whatever you want from me, save it for later!"
Loki had been observing this conversation (if you would call it a conversation) for a while now. No one besides him had ever piqued his friend's interest before. What could Hugo possibly want from this little brat? He still hadn't forgotten his disrespectful attitude during the Neo Egoist League.
Besides, what was up with everyone's obsession with Isagi Yoichi anyway? From what he recalled, Blue Lock was a habitat for Isagi obsessed fanatics. As a mentor during the league, he could remember the many times he witnessed Sae's little brother Rin muttering on about how he was going to devour Isagi. Wherever he went, Isagi was the main topic of conversation.
Shaking his head with new-found resolve, he walked away from the chaotic arguing. He had to prepare for the football match tonight as well, and wasting time watching Isagi and Hugo is definitely not productive.
"It's early morning Yoichi, there's plenty of time before the PxG match. Spend some time with me."
"I already said no, you stupid bastard! Leave me alone!"
Hugo had his right arm wrapped around Isagi's waist with his chin resting upon his shoulder. Does this bastard really think he's just going to listen to him? No way!
Hugo flaunted a slight grin before it fledged into a full smile. Damn him and his attractive face, it's so distracting! Isagi tried to wiggle out of Hugo's grasp but to no avail. This was worse than Kaiser's initial chin pull from the start of the Neo Egoist League. These Europeans really got on Isagi's nerves.
"What if I take you to a cafe specialised for sweet treats? I'm sure you're hungry right now. There's still time before the match as I stated previously." Hugo offered unhelpfully, as if this new option would change Isagi's mind.
Coincidentally, Isagi's stomach rumbled loudly as soon as Hugo finished his proposal. How embarrassing.
Freeing himself from Hugo's tight hold, Isagi said reluctantly, "I guess, if you're the one paying." He made sure to avoid eye contact completely. Already imagining those dark onyx eyes staring straight through his soul sent shivers throughout his body.
"Of course, Yoichi."
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This was awkward. Very awkward.
The restaurant Hugo recommended was very aesthetically pleasing. Comfortable duets of wooden chairs with the typical glass table were present for majority of the area. Vases containing daffodils were placed in the center of each table, creating a relaxing and enjoyable atmosphere.
Isagi continued to avoid eye contact even now, instead directing his focus on devouring the kintsuba cake Hugo had purchased for him. Almost like an uncomfortable first date-
"So Yoichi. I would like to discuss with you about your aptitude."
"Wait, what?" Isagi was incredibly confused. What was Hugo on about? Aptitude?
"You are destined to become a number two. I understand you may be rather reluctant to accept this, but I only deliver the truth to you. I am discontent with your current decision and ideals; pursuing to be number one regardless of your limited talent and skill? I personally find that rather disturbing. Your insistence to outperform what you can achieve does not appease me at all."
"Say, do you believe in destiny?"
What the fuck? Who does this guy think he is?
All this shit about following your destiny and the implication that he wasnt competent enough to become the number one striker? This guy must be living in a world full of delusion.
Any respect Isagi had for this Frenchman had diminished in less than 2 seconds. Disheartened by Hugo's... yap session, he directed an angry glare towards him. Either Hugo was completely stupid or just decided to ignore Isagi's very obvious glaring. It doesn't help that the man's features were so defined, making it difficult to stare directly at him.
Isagi decided to speak up now after the awkward silence continued to prevail. With a small cough to attract Hugo's attention, he declared, "There's no way I believe in this shit. You expect me to give up my goals just to suit your aptitude? What bullshit!"
Hugo didn't even flinch. The smug bastard looked unimpressed, as if Isagi was just a disobedient child throwing a tantrum. Instead his eyes locked onto Isagi's with a look of contemplation, studying the dark haired striker as if he was a creature.
Hugo cleared his throat loudly before bluntly stating, "Yoichi the path you have chosen won't be accessible forever. It's more appropriate for you to choose the option that is best suited for your capabilities. I am not telling you to give up being a football player at all, I am aiding you to become a better player overall. I only want the best for-"
"Hold up a second, you consulting bastard." Isagi has had enough.
Not only is Hugo seriously pissing him off, he's basically saying Isagi isn't good enough. Not enough to beat his rivals. Not enough to beat anyone. Hugo has absolutely no idea how hard he's worked to devour his rivals, devour any obstacles blocking his way. The physical strain, the mental strain, everything. Does Hugo really think he'll throw it all away for a more 'suitable' choice? When hell freezes over!
What's worse is that Hugo looks unbothered by Isagi's refusal to cooperate. He probably believes Isagi will cave in eventually, realise his incompetence and subject himself to his correct destiny.
"Who the fuck do you think you are? Who are you to tell me my choices are unsuitable? My dream - no, my goal - is to become the number one striker. I'll accomplish it, no matter how difficult it'll be to achieve." Isagi scowled furiously.
Hugo looked utterly bewildered. His onyx eyes widened for a fraction of a second and his eyelashes fluttered gently. There's no way absolutely everyone has listened and believed the nonsense this shithead spouts from his mouth. His soft lips were slightly parted, perhaps stunned from Isagi's rebellion.
However that vulnerable look faltered almost immediately, making Isagi double check whether he actually witnessed that surprising occurance. This bastard has good looks but it's all wasted on his appalling personality and ideas. How disappointing, those thighs were really wasted on a guy like him. Hugo was had now returned to that memorable deadpan stare. It was honestly frightening, and made Isagi nervous. What will he say now?
"Yoichi, I only wish the best for you. Why continuously meet with failure when you have the possibility to exceed all the expectations people have for you? Take Loki for example. He is the embodiment of what I would consider to be a desirable number one. His physical capabilities, such as his devastating speed far exceeds my own talent. That's why I deem him to be a worthy person to receive my advice. With my guidance, Loki has flourished immensely."
Has Hugo just kidnapped him to glaze the hell out of Loki? No way Isagi was going to listen to this shit any longer. He just yaps on and on and on, probably lost in his own little world. How embarrassingly stupid. Isagi won't blindly listen to his words just because he gave an example of how he was right.
Hugo must really be self absorbed to have the confidence to offend people so casually. Or maybe he's oblivious to the point of being too clueless. Either way, his whole personality is plain annoying.
"Stop it."
Hugo curiously gazed at Isagi, waiting for elaboration.
"Stop all this shit. I refuse to abide by what you call 'my destiny'."
For the first time today, Hugo was completely in shock. His beautiful features had paused indefinitely, but this time Isagi was able to witness the man's temporarily moment of astonishment. A sense of pride established itself deep in Isagi's heart, proud of himself for finally breaking this cyborg like yapper."
Isagi decided to continue whilst targeting another glare towards Hugo, "I'll prove my competence during the U-20 World Cup. I'm sure you're aware of my speech I gave out after my win against the former U-20 team. I'll win the world cup no matter what, and I'll be the one leading my team to victory."
Time to leave. After rummaging around in his wallet to find a few crumpled Euros and slamming it down onto the table, he stood up abruptly and leaned in towards Hugo. The man's breathing came in an exasperated sequence, almost a contrast to his usual calculated form.
Isagi stopped only when their noses began to touch; a challenge concealed for Hugo to take against his own will. The egoist was so focused on intimidating his nemesis that he was unable to notice the tips of Hugo's ears turning a deep shade of red, matching his curly burgundy locks.
"I'll prove myself to you. Watch me."
With one final harsh glower, Isagi recoiled away from Hugo and stomped out of the restaurant.
Hugo was fascinated with the being known as Isagi Yoichi. Loki had described Isagi to be immature and overly confident. However, the boy had exceeded all of Hugo's expectations and continued to do so. Not only was he actively rejecting Hugo's philosophy, he chooses to try and prove otherwise?
An anomaly. Isagi Yoichi is most certainly an anomaly.
Hugo wants to crush those hopeful dreams and demonstrate his overwhelming superiority.
Besides, he's sure they will meet soon. With the earbud grasped in his hand, Hugo looks forward to their next coincidental meeting. Sooner than Isagi may expect...
In the background, Hugo's phone rang until the recipent finally picked up. "Salut Julian, es-tu toujours en contact avec Jinpachi Ego? Si oui, demande-lui si Isagi Yoichi sera présent au match de PxG. J'ai des soupçons, mais j'aimerais en être sûr. Merci."
"Hey Julian, are you still in contact with Jinpachi Ego? If so, ask him if Isagi Yoichi will be at the PxG match. I have my suspicions, but I'd like to be sure. Thanks."
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It was only after Isagi had exited the restaurant when he realised he left his earbud. Well, there's undoubtedly no way he'll go back inside after that manic display. Making another mental note to apologise to Reo AND ask for a new pair of earbuds, Isagi decided to walk back to his apartment to get ready to watch the PxG match. After all, that was the task Ego had set him out to accomplish.
Anyway, what was up with that guy Hugo? All that rubbish about his aptitude. How idiotic does he think Isagi is? Of course Isagi himself is painfully aware of his own limited abilities, yet that doesn't mean he's just going to give up.
With newfound determination he strode back to his apartment in record time, planning to get ready for the match. All Isagi has to do is locate his ticket and change clothes. He's lucky that he pestered Isagi instead of the other crazy egoists Blue Lock has created. Imagine if he confronted Barou with all that second best shit. The King would never accept what Hugo would call 'his destiny'. Unless Barou was most likely what Hugo perceived as a number one, worthy to be a striker. That might also be a potential idea. Who cares about what this cyborg says, anyway? As long as Isagi proves him wrong in the end, that's all that matters.
Ego had given Isagi a PxG shirt to wear for the match, saying it was for, "the beneficial experience." Isagi didn't believe a word he said but arguing against Ego is basically like having a shouting match against a tree. In other words, pointless. Ego is too stubborn and obnoxious to the point that majority of people just avoid quarelling with him at all.
Unfolding the shirt, he saw the letters 'L O K I' imprinted boldly on the back of the shirt. "There's no chance I'm wearing this shit," Isagi exclaimed angrily. Who does Ego think he is? Making him wear Loki's merch for no particular reason at all? However, Isagi could already imagine the amusement twinkling in Ego's eyes.
"For your own personal enjoyment," he imagined Ego stating bluntly. The man was as predictable as he was unpredictable. Slipping the shirt on, Isagi decided to wear comfortable grey jeans, white socks and dark blue shoes to match the shirt. Whilst taking a picture to send to Ego as proof that he is wearing the shirt, Isagi began to collect other necessities he may need.
Ring... Ring... Ring!!
Isagi's phone began to suddenly vibrate violently in his hand. He almost dropped the device but then he spotted the contact name: Meguru Bachira 💛🐝. With absolutely zero hesitation, he accepted the call.
"Hey hey, Isagi! How's France? Is it hot? When's the match starting? You haven't been beat up have you?" Bachira immediately questions, his voice slightly static. He continues whipping out more questions regardless whether Isagi attempted to answer the previous ones.
Slowly but surely, Bachira is now finally out of breath; yet his excitement to see Isagi is still evident through the huge grin plastered on his face.
Isagi laughed and cheerfully said, "Bachira! It's great to see you too! France has been alright, but I definitely prefer it back at Japan. How are you?"
Bachira was ecstatic to see his best friend thriving in this foreign country. He had initial doubts circulating beforehand but seeing Isagi's smile again really reasurred the dribbler. After all if Isagi is feeling happy, Bachira is feeling even more happy!
"I'm doing great! It's quite boring here in Japan because everyone else have got their tasks to do and don't even have time to reply to my messages. They can't be that busy right? Anyway, when's the match?"
Isagi chuckled quietly. "In around an hour, so I have to go soon."
"Aw, okay! You know, apparently a special interview is going to happen after the match. A New Generation 11 player that Loki is close friends with."
"Well, that's something to look forward to! I'm not bothered about Loki but the player that could be equally as good as him? I'm so excited!"
An audible grin was heard from the other side of the phone. "Of course you're excited Isagi. I don't know who it might be but imagine if it's Kaiser?"
With a purposeful scoff Isagi retorted sassily, "Yeah sure. The dethroned emperor is going to fly to France just for an interview. As if!"
"Blehh! You're so easy to tease Isagi. Don't fall in love with anyone while you're in France. It is known as the country of love and romance, you know~"
"Shush, Bachira!"
After some back and forth teasing, Isagi realised the time. "Shit, Bachira, I have to go! Message me later, okay?"
"Aw, I'll miss you Isagi! Don't forget about me!" Bachira exclaimed playfully before hanging up. The dribbler really had no shame, but that's just another aspect of Bachira that Isagi adores about him.
It was time to head out. Isagi grabbed his bag and departed his apartment. He felt oddly excited, anticipating something good may happen during the match. Maybe his metavision was working off the field for once? Who knows.
Little did he know that there was a New Generation 11 player expecting his arrival. The man had come early, planting himself in the seat next to Isagi's.
"I'm waiting for you, Yoichi."