There is strength in unity and weakness in division
A team of
friends
ema pen
The night fell over the training field like a heavy curtain, covering the colors and casting pale shadows on the players’ faces. The members of Team Japan were catching their breaths after a grueling practice, yet one of them remained standing in the middle of the field, silent, as if his body were present but his spirit absent. That was Daimon, the team’s defender. His eyes wandered, following the ground without focus, and his shoulders bore an invisible burden.
For days, he had changed. He no longer laughed wildly with Bastien as he used to, nor did he shout with enthusiasm when intercepting the ball from a strong opponent. His silence spoke louder than any words. Kaven, the captain, approached with steady steps. His heart knew something was hidden behind this emptiness. He spoke firmly, yet with warmth:
“Daimon, what’s wrong? I haven’t seen you like this before.”
Daimon didn’t respond, as if he feared exposing what was churning inside him. Yidian, the vice-captain, intervened with a gentle smile, placing his hand on Kaven’s shoulder:
“Perhaps he just needs some time… don’t push him, Kaven.”
But Bastien could not tolerate the silence, stepping forward with a laugh:
“Hey! Are you bored? Or can’t you keep up with my madness anymore?”
Daimon did not move. Bastien’s laughter faded slowly, replaced by a genuine worry. Even Yoheim, the calm midfielder, looked up from his bag and said quietly:
“There’s something devouring him from within… isn’t there?”
The next day, training was intense. Captain Kaven shouted instructions, sweat pouring from the players’ faces. Everyone ran with passion, except Daimon. He ran as if his feet were stuck in mud, misplacing his position and dropping the ball easily. Kaven shouted in frustration:
“Daimon! This is not your level! Focus!”
He lowered his head silently, and Kaven’s anger grew. But Yidian quickly stepped in, placing his hand on Kaven’s shoulder:
“Calm down, it’s not just a mistake.”
Bastien kicked the grass forcefully and shouted:
“What’s wrong with you, man?! You’re our solid defender! Where’s the craziness you used to yell at me
Daimon’s chest heaved as he tried to catch his breath, but the weight inside him felt heavier than ever. He could hear the rhythm of his own heartbeat, a relentless drum of doubt and self-reproach. Every mistake, every slip on the field replayed in his mind like a haunting echo. Yet, as he glanced at his teammates, their eyes filled with concern and unspoken support, a tiny spark of hope flickered within him. For the first time in days, he felt that maybe he was not entirely alone in this battle, and that perhaps, together, they could face the darkness threatening to consume him
