[Another opponent, from a different team, might fill in the moment that followed those words with a laugh of encouragement, a lighthearted review of the match, friendly commentary on the things she'd done well and the places she still had yet to improve. And surely there are people in the world like that, but Yagyuu isn't one of them, and attempting to open that venue of discussion after the match they've just had only seems ignoble and discourteous.

Let that sort of instruction come from Yukimura, with his unfailing ability to draw out the best of a player and hone it into excellence. For now, Yagyuu's expertise is best put to use by being a rival--something to set her sights on, something to pursue. She's got a long way to go if she thinks she's going to be able to take him head-on when he's playing at his best, but he doesn't doubt now that she has it in her to try.

Yukimura once said that people become stronger in equal measure to the defeat they've endured. It's a Rikkai sentiment. And now he can believe she honestly understands that.

On the other hand, the match is over, and it's come time to sink carefully back into their respective roles--which means it's a gentleman's next duty to see the lady home, if only to make sure she doesn't collapse on the side of the road along the way.

...Whoops.]

I was pleased to oblige, and I'll certainly look forward to your next challenge. For now, though, let me walk you home.

[Funny how neither of those two remarks are questions.]