Even though it was only a race to five points, Jin poured in everything. Every spike, every block, Mad Dog was stopped cold.
Not a single point slipped through. And twice, when there were open spots on court, Jin still chose to drive the ball straight at Mad Dog, grinning after scoring each point as if to rub it in. The taunt only fueled Mad Dog's frustration.
"Who is that silver-haired kid?" someone whispered from the sideline. "He's already scored four in a row… must be from one of the famous schools."
"I don't know. His blocking and spiking are ridiculous. The other side hasn't scored even once."
As the whispers spread, Mad Dog leapt to hit the next ball but Jin was already there, shutting him down with a perfect block.
5-0.
Jin's makeshift three-man team snapped Mad Dog's streak in an instant.
---
"Thanks for the game. I'll stop here today." Jin smiled at his two teammates, waving them off.
He hadn't come to prove anything, only to test the "Eye of Insight." Having felt the change, there was no point dragging it out.
His teammates still looked dazed, their faces caught between awe and disbelief. A moment ago, they'd thought he was just another high schooler.
On the other side, Mad Dog stormed across the court, face twisted with rage, his stride so sharp it seemed like he was ready to throw a punch.
Spectators stirred nervously, some even stepping forward to hold him back.
But Jin raised his hand, signaling for them not to worry. He already knows Mad Dog's personality. The guy wouldn't lash out just because he'd lost a game. And even if he did, Jin had no intention of backing down.
Sure enough, when Mad Dog reached him, he didn't attack. He just glared, voice sharp and demanding.
"Again. Play with me again!"
---
That fiery demand almost made Jin laugh. In the anime, Mad Dog only rejoined Seijō in the Spring High Tournament. It may be understandable he wants more.
"No can do today," Jin replied coolly. Then he leaned closer, grin turning sharp. "But if you want to win, I can give you an opportunity."
Mad Dog froze, instincts flaring. He stepped back half a pace, the snarl on his face faltering for the first time.
'Hah. still sensitive… Jin thought.
"What… opportunity?" Mad Dog demanded suspicious6.
Jin grabbed the jacket draped over a nearby chair and slid it on. Across the back, bold letters spelled: "Karasuno"
"Seijō is a good team. Go back. I'll be waiting for you at Interhigh." His eyes gleamed with challenge.
---
The spectators caught on instantly. "Karasuno… wasn't that school once strong? Could it be?" Discussion rippled through the gym.
Mad Dog stiffened, eyes widening when the name of his old team was spoken aloud. Memories on school came rushing back, the isolation, the clashes, being benched away for his recklessness. His expression clouded.
Jin stepped in closer, resting a firm hand on his shoulder. "A team doesn't just force you to fit in. Sometimes it bends and grows with you. Seijō is worth going back to."
It was the kind of line an old coach should have said. Jin just stole it for effect.
"Tch. Don't stick your nose in my business." Mad Dog slapped his hand away and stormed out of the gym, his pride unbending even as his steps faltered.
---
*Ding!*
"You have successfully drawn the hostility of Aoba Jōsai's 'Kyōtani Kentarō.' Next time you defeat him, a special reward will be granted."
Jin smirked as he left the court. 'Good. That guaranteed Mad Dog will show up at Interhigh.'
The thought of the qualifiers just days away made his blood run hot. He licked his lips in anticipation.