A/N: Prince of Tennis belongs solely to Konami Takeshi.

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Ohtori watched his senpai carefully; each slight, quick move Shishido made was all registered into his head. He couldn't help but worry for Shishido. It must've been really hard on him, losing to Tachibana Kippei of Fudoumine that easily. It must have been a really hard blow for Shishido to take. They weren't even a seeded school. Not that Ohtori looked down on seeded school – in fact, he admired their perseverance – but still, Hyotei was rather harsh with people who lose. One could tell by how they kick people out of the regulars because of one loss. It was tough, but Ohtori managed – he had a strong serve, after all.

"Choutarou, could you do me a favor?" The mention of his name immediately snapped the boy out of his reverie. He turned his head to the direction in which the voice came from, hoping that at least, he could be of some help. The slight, pleading look in Shishido's eyes told Ohtori that he guessed right. "What is it, Shishido-senpai?"

Shishido's expression changed into a serious one – one that showed Ohtori how much determination his senpai really had. "I need you to train with me," he replied, eyes narrowing slightly, remembering of how utterly humiliated he felt being defeated. He didn't care if he had to beg someone to help him – as long as it would allow him to keep his spot in the regulars.

Ohtori smiled softly at his senpai. He admired him, and Shishido would probably never be able to know how much.

"Are you free tonight?" Shishido asked, looking at Ohtori hopefully.

"I'll be free, Shishido-senpai," Ohtori knew how anxious Shishido was. Shishido loved tennis – he enjoyed the tension, the sound of the ball hitting the ground, the cheers… everything. To be unable to participate in any other games after losing to someone made him realize that, and he would do anything to keep on playing – even if it meant hours of training.

To be able to help his senpai in some way gave Ohtori a great sense of satisfaction. Hopefully, this would mark the start of a wonderful friendship.

Little did Ohtori know what kind of training Shishido was about to put himself through…