---
The following days brought a new intensity to their training. Ryo's recent level-up had sparked something within him, and he was even more determined to help Issei become a formidable fighter. With Riser's lingering threat still on the horizon, Ryo knew that honing Issei's skills was more important than ever.
---
Morning Training Session
The sun was just peeking over the horizon, and Ryo was already at the training grounds, arms crossed as he watched Issei go through a series of drills. The younger fighter was pushing himself, his movements sharper and more precise than before, but Ryo's critical eye didn't miss a beat.
"Not bad," Ryo remarked, his voice carrying a hint of sarcasm as he watched Issei throw a punch. "You almost look like you know what you're doing. Just don't let it go to your head."
Issei, drenched in sweat, shot him a determined look. "I'm trying, okay? I can't all be a natural like you."
"Oh, believe me, you're far from natural," Ryo replied, smirking. "But keep this up, and you might actually resemble a fighter instead of an overenthusiastic fan."
Sona and Ophis arrived shortly after, carrying equipment for the day's training. Sona watched Issei's efforts with an approving nod.
"I have to admit, Ryo, he's come a long way since you started training him," she said.
Ryo shrugged, as though brushing off a compliment. "Yeah, well, I didn't do much. Just had to hammer the basics into his thick skull."
Issei paused to catch his breath, grinning despite himself. "Thanks, Ryo. I think."
Ryo rolled his eyes, trying to hide the flicker of pride he felt. "Don't get used to it. Now, let's move on to agility drills. If you're still this slow, Riser will have an easier time dodging you than a fly would."
---
Afternoon Strategy Meeting
Later, they gathered in the clubhouse to go over battle strategies. Riser's recent appearances had made it clear that they'd need more than brute strength to handle him and his allies. Ryo took the lead, drawing out formations on a chalkboard.
"Alright, listen up," he began, his tone dead serious. "Riser's biggest weakness is his arrogance. He loves to showboat, which means he's vulnerable when he thinks he has the upper hand. Our job is to use that against him."
Ophis tilted her head, curious. "And how do you plan to do that?"
Ryo's smirk grew wider. "Simple. We'll bait him. Issei will make the first move-something flashy to get Riser's attention. He'll think Issei's desperate, and when he takes the bait, that's when we hit him where it hurts."
Issei gulped but nodded. "So... I'm the bait?"
"Pretty much," Ryo said bluntly. "But don't worry, it'll be controlled. Besides, you wanted to punch him in the face, right? This is your chance."
Sona's brow furrowed slightly. "And what if things don't go as planned?"
"They won't," Ryo said confidently. "They never do. But we'll improvise. The key is to stay flexible and keep Riser off-balance. With our training, we'll be able to adapt."
Ophis crossed her arms, her gaze focused on Ryo. "And what about you? What's your role in all this?"
"Oh, I'll be there, too," he said with a casual shrug. "Throwing insults, keeping morale high, and maybe landing a few blows if Riser gets too close."
---
Late Night Reflections
That evening, after everyone had dispersed, Ryo sat alone in the training area, looking up at the stars. Despite his confident facade, he knew the risks they were taking. He could feel the weight of responsibility settling on his shoulders, the same weight he had once run from. But now, with friends and allies who trusted him, he felt a sense of purpose.
Opening his status screen, he reviewed his stats again, looking at his progress. His Teaching skill was steadily climbing, thanks to his work with Issei. His other abilities were close to reaching their peaks, but he knew he had to be careful. One wrong move, one moment of overconfidence, could put his friends in danger.
---
Status
Name: Ryo Uchiha
Race: Human
Level: 113
Bloodline: Uchiha (Awakened)
Title: Ouroboros Dragon God's Mate, Werewolf Slayer, Silent Killer
HP: 215,000 / 215,000 (+27,000 per min)
Chakra Capacity: 260,000 / 260,000 (+95,000 per min)
EXP: 7,300 / 66,500
STR: 760
END: 570
INT: 925
AGI: 730
CHR: 85
Points: 108
Money: [∞]
---
Skills
Fireball Jutsu [99 / 100]
Swordsmanship [100 / 100]
Void Manipulation [81 / 100]
Ice Style: Twin Dragon Blizzard [30 / 100]
Lightning Blade [50 / 100]
Sharingan [3 Tomoe]
Perception Enhancement
Copy Technique
Teaching [20 / 100]
Partners: Sona, Ophis
---
Satisfied with his progress, Ryo leaned back, allowing himself a moment of quiet. He knew the coming days would bring challenges unlike any he'd faced before, but he was ready. With Issei's rapid improvement and his team at his side, they would face Riser and whatever else awaited them.
He closed his status screen, the faint glow of the display fading as he clenched his fists, determination etched on his face.
"Riser, you have no idea what's coming," he muttered to himself, a confident smirk playing on his lips. "And this time, I'll make sure my sarcasm hits as hard as my punches."
With that, he stood up, ready to take on the next day-and the battles it would bring.