January 6th, 2015. 7:53 PM.
Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium.
~ Morikawa Hayato's Perspective ~
Sweat. A natural biological process of the human body. It's the body's way of cooling itself through a mechanism called thermoregulation.
Sweat itself produces no smell. But when it comes into contact with bacteria on the skin, it acquires a distinct odor.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"Coach."
"Hm?"
"The gym stinks."
"So what? Does it bother you?"
"Kinda'."
Coach would pause for a moment. His eyes lingering on the gymnasium net.
A net that held thousands, or maybe even tens of thousands of memories.
"'The body that sweats will never regret its work'". Or something like that."
"Sorry?"
He groaned. Dragging a hand over his face like he was embarrassed for me. Although, I don't think I said anything stupid.
"What I'm saying is... Don't look at it as something minor. To me, this smell is a scent of effort."
He'd rest his hand. Tucking his arms behind his back as he gazed at the stained gym floors.
"Your sweat is proof that you're pushing yourself beyond comfort. That you're alive and trying."
" . . . "
"Every drop tells a story. Every stench? It's a small victory over laziness. So yeah, it smells. Hell it even stinks like hell. But it's the smell of getting better. Hehe!"
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
I've kept your words to heart coach. I know they can't see it, I know they might even try to deny it, but I know they've been working every damn day for this moment.
Their blood. Their sweat. Their tears. Sacrificed for this very day.
I feel it too. The sweat dripping from my scalp to the soles of my feet...
But damn it... It's still annoying.
BAM!!!
THUMP.
"SHŌNAN TAKAO'S ACE, FIRST YEAR 'SHINAZUGAWA RYŪKI', TAKES ANOTHER POINT HOME FOR A DEVASTATING 9 POINT LEAD!!!"
The gymnasium roared with excitement. They screamed like they wanted us crushed under the noise. The scoreboard ticked. 23:14.
A droplet of sweat managed to make its way to my right eye... How unlucky-
"GET YOUR HEAD IN THE DAMN GAME! You lazy fucking captain!"
Endo Masaki, our middle blocker. With how tall he was, I'm surprised he didn't join our school's basketball team.
Well, ever since the Fukui Seimei basketball team lost by 40 points in some tournament, it was dismantled by the higherups... A shame really.
"Calm down Masaki-kun! If you wanted to stop them from scoring you should've just blocked it~ Or did all of your brain power go to your height?"
Hayashi Naoto, the second middle blocker. If Endo was a grumpy house-cat, Hayashi would be the annoying mouse that always comes to bother.
"Do you wanna' die? And who the hell gave your permission to use my first name?"
"Aww, don't tell me you're getting angry."
"You two, stop it. Now."
Murakami Souta, the setter of the team. It's unfortunate on how he has to play every set since he's the only setter on the team.
He placed himself in between the cat & mouse duo. Stopping the argument in the process. His calm and toned demeanor is almost softening.
"Morikawa-senpai, you alright?"
Hoshino Reiji, an outside hitter. Out of everyone here, he looks up to me the most. No matter how bad things got, he always stayed smiling.
He's a bit shorter than me, so he has to tilt his head higher to match eye-contact with me. His undaunted resolve never fails to amaze me.
"Don't worry Reiji, I'm alright. I'm sorry I wasn't able to receive their spike."
"HAHA! I'm sure if anyone here tried to do the same, they'd have their hands blown away from the sheer power of that monster!"
I'm sure these are jokes, but with how Reiji is, I'm sure he meant those words with 100% certainty.
With that being said, I could feel the daggers glaring into Reiji by the other guys. Not sure if Reiji can sense that too, but it would probably be the best if he didn't.
"Morikawa-senpai."
Souta said as he approached me, with Haruto on his side.
"We have to get a point back no matter what. No matter who digs the ball next, I'll be sending the ball to Haruto."
"Hah? Why?"
Renji asked. His eyes showed disbelief.
"To regain a point back, we'll have to make a play so unforeseen that even we can't predict what's going to happen. That's the only way we'll be able to disorient their flow of play."
It's true. Shōnan Takao high school is famous for their exceptional chemistry. All being led by their ring leader, Shinazugawa Ryūki.
"Once we disrupt their flow, we'll sub in Nishiyama. Once he's in, his duty is to serve directly to their outside hitter, soon to be on the 5th position. He's the worst at digging by far."
From across our side of the court, I could see their setter making his way towards the serving area. Time is running out.
"This chance is one in a million. It worked in the first set, it'll work now."
He walked back to where he was stationed. As he walked back I could hear a small whisper leave his mouth.
"I hope."
Not something you want to hear from the person taking the one in a million gamble.
It's almost like time is set in stone. The cheers from Shōnan Takao are clearly getting to our team.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"For our starting lineup, we'll be running a 5-1 rotation."
We've used this strategy the entire year. Not because coach liked it, we had no choice.
"Souta, you'll be taking the first position as setter."
"Yes coach."
"Hayato, you'll be in the second position as outside."
"Yes coach."
"Naoto, you'll be in the third position as middle blocker. Riku will sub in once it's your turn to serve."
"Tch."
Masaki never liked this strategy. Whenever we have to play this strategy, Naoto always looks at him with this mischievous smile. Masaki has never recovered.
"Endo-kun, you'll be our opposite on the fourth position."
"As long as I don't get subbed out, I don't care."
The locker room went silent for a few seconds. Coach spoke again.
"Renji, you'll be in the fifth position as outside."
"Ready!"
"And Haruto, you'll be in the sixth position as another middle blocker... And our pseudo-libero."
Our Achilles heel reveals itself. Our lack of backrow defense.
"That's alright coach."
"Our opponents will not be easy. They were the runner-ups of last years All-Japan tournament. If we're going to win this match, I want your heart and soul in 100%. Understand?"
"Understood." We'd all say in unison.
He'd put his hand forward, with the rest of us following with him. This is the chance. To show the Fukui Seimei volleyball team's strength!
"Fukui Seimei!"
"Fight!"
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
PHEEEEEEEP!!!
Their opposite hitter tosses the ball into the air, it barely spun. It's going to float.
BAM!
It's fast, but it lacks the natural unpredictable factor of a normal float serve. So naturally.
BUMP!
"FUKUI SEIMEI'S TANABE HARUTO DIGS IT CLEAN!"
It's only natural that Haruto was able to receive a serve like that. Honestly, we don't deserve a prodigy like him in our team.
He also has to play pseudo-libero. Since we don't have a dedicated defender, we're forced to utilize his speed and reaction time to improve our defense...
"The ball is falling directly onto their setter, Murakami Souta!"
Volleyball is a game of split-second decision making. The moment you don't decide to act is the moment you lose.
FWUPP!
They expected the attack. The three blockers at the front have been anticipating the set. If Haruto hits it, it's over.
THWP!
They jumped. It's... Over.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"You know, being just a lil' selfish isn't so bad!"
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
SKRRT.
BAM!!!
"MORIKAWA HAYATO SPIKES IT CLEAN TO SHŌNAN TAKAO'S BACK ZONE!!!"
"Morikawa-Senpai..."
"Morikawa!"
Hopefully, I've motivated my team enough to see this through.
Fight on, Fukui Seimei!
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ Takashi Genzo's Perspective ~
"Nice one Hayato!"
It was difficult, but they managed to pull it off. A shoot set meant for Haruto, transformed into a monster quick to Hayato!
They were led to believe that we were going to use our team's prodigy to take the comeback point, but they were wrong! Hehe!
"Riku and Yuuta, you're up."
"About time." Yuuta stood up, holding and raising the paddle on his right hand.
"Hayashi-kunnn~! It's switch time!!!" He swung the small plastic paddle left and right.
I know they're both ecstatic about being subbed in, but was it really necessary to hold on to those paddles as they make their way to the substitution zone...
"Hah? Seriously..." Naoto's back hunched up as he crept towards the substitution zone.
"It's okay Naoto." Hayato remained firm. Patting Naoto's back as they walked.
When they both made it to the substitution zone, Riku placed his hand in front of Naoto's face.
"What's this?"
"I'm asking for a high five!"
"Sigh..."
Clap!
"If you hit 10 aces in a row, I'll treat ya!"
"Don't take back those words now!"
Hayato made his way to the substitution zone. He stuck out his hand. Yuuta grabbed it, and exchanged a firm handshake.
"You sure you can last 10 points? You can always switch with me after the first 2."
"Morikawa-senpai, arrogance doesn't suit you. Especially after you hit the spike meant for Tanabe." He smirked.
"Haha! I think being greedy is okay. Once-in-a-while!"
They both shook, then they both went their separate ways. Naoto's back was still hunched, almost as if he were at the verge of tears. But he's probably just playing a role.
Hayato pulled off his arm band and sat down next to me. He sighed.
"Satisfied?" I asked him.
"I just pray that my juniors will do alright." He replied.
Yep. Exactly what I'd say.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Current Positions:
1st: Nishiyama Riku
2nd: Endo Masaki
3rd: Hoshino Renji
4th: Tanabe Haruto
5th: Murakami Souta
6th: Okabe Yuuta
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"Kyaaaaaa!!! Nishiyama!!! Look over here!!!"
"Waaaa!!! Nishiyama-kun!! Please sign my t-shirt!"
Riku is especially popular with the female portion of the crowd. Let's hope that doesn't get to his head...
A line judge handed him the ball. He went to the end line and stood on it for a while. He took three steps back, hesitated for a while, then took a fourth step.
He then faced the opposing side. Riku has always had this weird serving ritual whenever he starts serving. He lifted the ball to the sky, whilst he stared at it with a beautiful glare.
Almost as if he placed all his hope into the ball. He then lowers it down, and points it towards his opponents. A warning perhaps? To this day, I still don't know.
FWEEEEEP!!!
Step.
Fwup!
He began his serve with a short step of his right foot. He tossed the ball high in the air. Riku purposefully tosses the ball at a high arc.
He once told me that if he threw it high enough, the spot lights might blind the enemies. Sometimes I wonder how a boy like him managed to get into Fukui Seimei...
Step. STEP. STEP!
Three explosive long steps meant to catch up with the ball as hit reaches apex and begins descending.
WHOOSH!
And finally, a jump. A basic 4-step approach, mixed with an unorthodox toss. Normally this wouldn't change anything. It was just a regular serve.
But unfortunately for them, this is Nishiyama Riku.
BAM!
"OUT!"
THUMP!!!
The line judge points the flag down.
"A MONSTROUS SERVICE ACE BY NISHIYAMA RIKU, AS THE BALL BARELY GRAZES THE SIDE LINEEE!!!"
"KYAAAAAAAA!!!" The crowd cheered concurrently.
Riku's jump serve is one of the best I've ever seen. His swift and explosive movements allowed for a tremendous impact on the ball. His accuracy makes it twice as frightening.
But what really seals the deal is the psychological pressure he places on his opponent. I can't tell from where I'm looking, but if I know Nishiyama Riku long enough, I'm sure he was staring daggers into that outside hitter.
"Nice Nishiyama! Let's go for one more!" Souta shouted.
"Likewise~"
The line judge returned the volleyball to him. Instead of taking three steps from the end line, he took four. He repeated the ritual once more, but this time with the ball on his left hand.
He presented the ball forward, his right hand raised right after.
Fwup!
The main characteristic of a jump float is its unpredictable flight path. When you're sending a ball with no spin, you're surrendering it to the unstable currents of the air.
The plan was to serve directly at their opposite, but since he's in the corner there's a high chance Riku might send it out if he were to do a risky float serve...
Riku... What are you planning to d-
BAM!!!
BBBUMP!
"SHŌNAN TAKAO'S SARUTOBI OUGA DIGS IT, BUT SENDS IT BACK TO FUKUI SEIMEI'S SIDE!!!"
"Nice one Riku!"
He started with a jump float, and switched to a spike serve before he made contact with the ball! But the lack of power made it easier for them to receive the ball!
"Send it here!"
BUMP!
"G-Gah!"
He may be good, maybe even the best in serving, but what he lacks is in other skills. He may have the body for it, but the immense pressure in a rally makes it impossible for him to play properly...!
"Sorry, Murakami-senpai!"
The bump was low, it would barely tip over the net if he tried to send it over. Souta had already positioned himself near the left antenna. There was no way he ca-
Where's Souta?
"Don't worry."
FWUPP!!!
His biggest strength is his ability to assess any situation, and fire a set at any position in 100% accuracy!
"All you, Renji!"
"Two blockers!-"
BAM!!!
They called too late! Amazing!
Even though they've seen it the whole game, they didn't expect Souta to still be able to fire quick sets! That's Fukui Seimei's "sniper", Murakami Souta!
"Nice spike, Renji!"
"AFTER AN INSANE SET AND SPIKE DUO BY MURAKAMI SOUTA AND HOSHINO RENJI, SHŌNAN TAKAO'S FRONT LINE WAS LEFT SHOOOOK!"
. . .
FWEEP!!!
Step. STEP. STEP!
BAM!!!
BUMP.
"NISHIYAMA RIKU SENDS A POWERFUL JUMP SERVE TOWARDS THEIR OUTSIDE, BUT HE MANAGES TO RECEIVE IT!"
"Tch!"
This is bad. He managed to pass it straight to their setter!
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ Sarutobi Ouga, Shōnan Takao's Outside Hitter's Perspective ~
Got it! I've finally managed to dig that bastard's serve! I hate that ass hole!
Whenever he's about to hit the ball he always stares at me with this lecherous look. It's fucking creepy!
The ball's falling down to Tsutomu-san! And there's barely anyone in my lane!
"LEFT!!!"
Finally, I can send these bastards to loser hell!
FWUPP!
The set's timing and angle is perfect. If I leap with all my might I'll be able to reach it and get a clean hit. I stood outside the court to start my approach.
I placed my right foot forward. My left followed quickly, arms swinging back in sync with my stride!
My right foot returned quickly to the front to match my pace! The floor rattled under my last powerful step!
I could feel the adrenaline surging through my body. I swung my arms forward and bent my knees and exploded into the air.
WHOOSH!
No clue what I look like right now...But I'm sure I look damn beautiful!
TAKE THIS YOU FUKUI SCUM!!!
BAM-
What?
BOOOOM!!!
"What's the matter? Your face tells me someone just shat all over your pathetic attempt of a spike."
Who the fuck-... When I looked up I saw a towering figure. His shadow swallowed me whole, the lights above him barely peeking out of his large body!
"Let's see you try that shit in the next round. I'll be standing here to block you every single damn time!"
I know him... He's the basketball prodigy who'd already hit six feet back in middle school. The worst fucking part is that he grew more when he reached his junior year...!
That's Fukui Seimei's 6'6 first year, Endo Masaki!!!
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ Takahashi Genzo's Perspective ~
Nice one, Masaki! That block was sure to crush their team's spirit even further! Especially with that... Monstrous looking grin.
I've never understood it but whenever he manages to block someone's spike, his eyes clench in this grotesque way. His mouth spreads in a way that his shark teeth become fully visible. Sometimes I see a red glow in his eyes, but it may just be my imagination...
But with that play, we're closing in the gap! It's 23:17!
FWEEP!!!
BAM!!!
BUMP!
"FUJIOKA DIGS THE SERVE CLEAN!!!"
"Damn it!"
Crap. Their libero stepped in the way of the outside hitter, granting them a cleaner pass. The ball's going straight towards the setter, and they're definitely sending it to their ace!
"3 BLOCKERS!"
FWUPP!
Haruto, Renji and Masaki jumped at the same time. We've thrown this strategy at him over-and-over. But no matter how many times we try to defend, Shinazugawa Ryūki hasn't been blocked a single time this match!
BAM!!!
"Bump it Souta!" I yelled from the sidelines.
"Shit...!"
Bump.
"To the right antenna, Murakami-senpai."
"O-Okabe-kun!"
If Haruto is the fastest player on our team, second place would either be given to Naoto or Okabe Yuuta. But at a time like this where everything's on the line...
FWUPP...and BAM!!!
"OKABE YUUTA HITS A DEVASTATING BACKROW ATTACK!!!"
Okabe Yuuta clearly surpasses everyone else! He's Fukui Seimei's "deuce ace!"
He landed back on his feet. He gave his palm a frustrating look. The reason we keep him for the last few points of a round is due to his low stamina and durability. I'm sure the bump that saved Souta took a large portion of his stamina.
"How long can you go for?" Souta asked.
"Maybe 2 or 3 more points... I'm kinda' disappointing aren't I?" He replied somberly.
"Hell no dude, you're the only one we can rely on in times like this."
"Alright then. Let's go for 4!"
The crowd roared for Fukui Seimei once again. If this doesn't fire up the team, nothing else will...!
FWEEP!!!
BAM!
BUMP!
Looks like they've adapted to our strategy. Nishiyama tried once again to fire at the right side but their Libero swiftly passes it! The ball is going to their ace again...!
"Hurry, Hurry!"
"THREE BLOCKERS!"
Shinazugawa Ryūki leapt into the air. What followed was a thunderous boom that echoed through the entire stadium.
When he reached the apex, I could see his eyes light up for a short moment. What was he seeing? Did the blockers mess up? Is Souta's form wrong? No...
There's a big enough gap between the blockers and the net! It's going to be a cut!
"Riku! COVER THE RIGHT SIDE!!!"
"Shit!"
BAAAAAM!!!
Thud.
"OKABE YUUTA NARROWLY SAVES THE CUT SHOT!!!"
"Yuuta!" Riku said in relief.
"HELL YEAH OKABE!" Masaki shouted.
"IT'S NOT OVER IDIOT!!!" Yuuta yelled back.
THWACK!!!
Riku sent the ball upward. You could barely see it from the sidelines.
"Three blockers! Three blockers!"
Shōnan Takao had already prepared their defense. The ball was falling down at a slow pace. Almost as if time slowed down at that very moment. Three players could take the swing here, but there's only one that I'd trust in a moment like this.
First is easily Masaki. He towers over the rest and his vertical is nothing to laugh about. But I doubt he'll be able to get an accurate shot in.
Second is Hayato. As the captain, he holds the most responsibility. I doubt he'd be shaken if he took the shot from such a high angle.
Third would be Renji. He may be the shortest out of the three, but he's the one player who never hesitates to swing when it matters most. So naturally...
Skrrt. THWOOOOOM!!!
Renji soared into the air, his grin plastered all over his face.
"OOORAAAAA!"
BAM!!!
"HOSHINO RENJI BLASTS IT OFF THE BLOCKERS' HANDS AND IT DEFLECTS OUT OF BOUNDS! POINT TO FUKUI SEIMEI!!!"
"YOSHAAA!" Renji howled into the crowd.
The ball dropped fast toward the attack line. Renji had just landed from the three-man block and without hesitation sprinted forward.
Although his body was still angled away, he twisted nearly ninety degrees midair, facing the net just in time to fire a vicious cross-court spike!
Yuuta is on the ground. I need to sub him ou-
"Oi."
"Ah.. Endo-kun.."
Masaki reached his hand down.
"I'll block the next one. So get the fuck up."
"Heh... I can probably go for one more save..."
Guess not! Hehe!
FWEEEEEEP!!!
BAM!!!
Nishiyama was done being flashy. He served straight to their libero!
BBBUMP!!!
"S-Shit!"
"Ono Takayuki receives the ball but sends it back over to Fukui Seimei's side!"
"Fuck yeah!" Riku shouted.
"Chance ball!"
Souta goes in for the set!
FWUPP!!!
"Renji!"
"Leave it to m-"
BAM!!!
"Endo-san!?"
BUMP!
"SHŌNAN TAKAO RECEIVES THEIR QUICK ATTACK!"
"TCH!"
Dang it. Masaki got greedy and stole Souta's set! Shōnan Takao has the game in their control again!
"SHINAZUGAWA RYŪKI GOES FOR A SPIIIIIIKE!!!"
BAM!!!
The impact roared through the gym! It was so sharp and violent, my eardrums nearly shattered...!
BBBUMP!
"Agh!!"
Shit! Yuuta couldn't dig it properly! The ball was sent flying towards the back!
"Riku! Get the ball!"
"S-Shit!-"
SHHK...THUMP!
Riku fell! He won't be able to get up fast enough to save it! Yuuta had already touched the ball so he can't catch it, and Souta wasn't expecting Riku to fall! Our backrow players can't make it! What can they d-
. . .
zzzzooooooooooooOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOMMM!
BAM!!!
"TANABE HARUTO SENDS THE BALL FLYING WITH A BICYCLE KICKKK!!!"
Haruto managed to break through the back row and catch up with the falling ball!
"OUT! IT'S OUT!"
BOOOOOOM!!!
"HE SCORES!!! SHŌNAN TAKAO FROZE AND THE BALL CRASHED DOWN INTO THE CORNERRR!!!"
"Gooooooooaaaal!!!" Haruto celebrated, as he lied down on the floor. Souta and Riku quickly rushed to his side.
"Haruto-kun, are you okay???" Souta asked.
"Of course!" He said as he sprung back up.
"How did you know the ball was going to go in?!" Riku asked.
"I didn't! Maybe it was just luck I guess, haha!"
Tanabe Haruto. A former middle-school football all-star, and the fastest person on the team. He is Fukui Seimei's black blur!
. . .
FWEEEEEP!!!
It's time for substitutions. Riku and Yuuta are clearly tired. Itsuki and Naoto raised their paddles to signal the switch.
They both made their way to the substitution zone to initiate the exchange.
"Can I at least get an ice cream?" Riku asked.
"If we win the game~!" Naoto responded.
They both high-fived. This may or may not be the last high-five for our tournament run.
"Fujimoto-senpai, Murakami-senpai told you to stay on the right side." Yuuta said.
"Got it. Good work, Okabe Yuuta." Itsuki replied.
They both made their way to the court.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Current Positions:
1st: Hayashi Naoto
2nd: Endo Masaki
3rd: Hoshino Renji
4th: Tanabe Haruto
5th: Murakami Souta
6th: Kuroda Itsuki
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
FWEEP!!!
Naoto presented the ball forward and raised his right hand. He took a short step with his left foot and tossed the ball forward.
SLAP!
The ball flew slow. Like a small bird against strong currents of wind. It landed right at the top of the net, and it slipped through to their side!
The ball dropped slowly, looks like an easy point!-
THWACK!!!
"SHINAZUGAWA RYŪKI SAVED IT IN THE LAST MOMENT!!! THE BALL IS STILL IN PLAY!!!"
He saved it right as the ball was about to hit the ground. Not only does he have exceptional spiking power, his ability to react to anything puts him in Japan's top 5 greatest high school players!
But this is a good thing, he's sacrificed himself and forced another spiker to score...!
"FOUR SET!"
THWUPPP!
Shit... This is bad! He's sent the ball upward with full force...! He's allowing Shinazugawa Ryūki to regain his stature and prepare another spike!
The crowd's erupted cheers were the only thing I could hear, but in that moment I knew exactly what conspired between that wing spiker and the setter.
A pact of brotherhood and trust between each other. Something that I can't see in this team... And I regret that with all my heart.
"THREE BLOCKERS!!!"
"WHERE DO WE BLOCK?!?"
"BLOCK DOWN THE MIDDLE DUMBASS!!! 3... 2... 1!!!"
THWOOM!!!
All three of them leapt into the air in a panic, doubt filled their faces. Their hands rose unsteadily, like shields full of holes. Shinazugawa could aim anywhere he pleased, and not one of them would be able to stop it...
Dang it! We were so close!
. . .
BAM!!!
Huh?
BON!
"WHAT?!? AFTER A TREMENDOUS CROSS SPIKE BY SHINAZUGAWA RYŪKI, IT WAS RECEIVED BY NONE OTHER THAN HAYASHI NAOTO!"
Wait! That's right! We have Naoto! Shinazugawa shot the ball straight at Souta, but hiding himself behind the wall of the three blockers, he slipped into position last second! He appeared out of nowhere and shielded Souta with a perfect save!
"Kuroda-senpai! Its your turn!" Naoto cried out.
Souta calmly made his way to the ball. He must be conserving his stamina for the next attack. If I were him, I would have sent it to the front line... But he had already set his target for the next attack.
"Murakami-senpai! Send it here!" Haruto shouted.
"SOUTA!! RIGHT HERE!!!" Renji screamed.
They called out to him, But his gaze was unwavering. Sharp as a blade.
FWUPP!
"MURAKAMI SOUTA SETS THE BALL TO THE CROWDS!?! WHERE IS HE AIMING?!?"
"Look again, idiot."
Typically, the approach is the foundation of a good spike. It's not just running up and jumping; it determines how much power and control you put into a good hit.
The approach builds speed, which transfers into upward and forward force. The greatest spikers have repeatable approaches. That rhythm gives the setter confidence in placing the ball. But not this spiker.
BAM!!!
He's the most obedient and "robotic" player on our team. Only attacking when commanded to. He's Fukui Seimei's "turret!"
THUD!!!
"KURODA ITSUKI SENDS IT TO THE SIDELINES! BARELY GRAZING THE NET AND SLAMMING IT TO THE OTHER SIDE!!!"
Not to mention that amazing defensive play by Naoto. He's a master at covering for others when needed! He may be the greatest versatile middle blocker in high school volleyball!
"THE SCORE IS NOW AT 23:22!!! WILL FUKUI SEIMEI BE ABLE TO COMPLETE THEIR 9 POINT COME BACK!?!"
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ Morikawa Hayato's Perspective ~
"Hayato." The coach called out to me while I was still on the bench.
"Ah, yes coach?" I replied abruptly.
"We're going to use our last substitution on you."
"W-What? Why?" I asked him.
"Just look at them."
I looked closer at my teammates. My friends.
Itsuki had just scored the point, but his face carried uncertainty. As ifwhat he just did was a fluke. It wasn't, so why does he look so... Panicked..?
Naoto had just recovered on the bench. I can;t imagine the mental strain that the last play put on him. His arms shook quietly. Who's wouldn't, after tanking a spike from Shinazugawa.
Endo wasn't panicked, but his stamina was bleeding away. Like a faucet that couldn't be shut.
Souta had been orchestrating all of our teams attacks. After planning so much, it would only be a matter of time until he miscalculates.
Renji and Haruto still look ready to go, but the drops of sweat that draw from their foreheads to the tips of their fingers show doubt.
"Here." He said as he handed me the paddle.
Itsuki's number. The sixth position.
Pat. Pat.
"What's that look on your face?" The coach asked me.
"I'm just not sure," I admitted. "Will this really be the right choice?"
He handed me the arm band. I looked up to face him. His face was calm. No furrowed brows or a trace of panic. Just the steady eyes of a man who had seen countless battles on courts just like this.
Even with sweat glistening on his skin, his expression carried nothing but confidence.
"The tallest mountains are climbed one step at a time. Don't look at the peak, just take the next step."
" . . . "
I said nothing. I couldn't say anything.
"Now get out there!"
Slap!
I felt the firm yet reassuring slap on my left shoulder. The same slap that had carried me through all three years at Fukui Seimei. The same hard feeling that pushed me forward.
I stood up, paddle in hand.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
FWEEEEEPPP!!!
I raised the paddle. My teammates turned. Some sighed in relief, others had eyes that glimmered, and one looked extremely impatient.
Itsuki rushed towards me. He stopped just short, chest heaving.
"I could've kept going, Morikawa-senpai." He said boldly, with a slight fatigue in his voice.
I extended my hand.
Grab!
"We'll win. Don't worry!"
His grip loosened, and I stepped past him, onto the court.
A deafening cheer swept through the crowd. Naoto was preparing to serve a few steps behind me, and the rest were either fidgeting or steeling themselves for what's about to come next.
Next to me, stood the calm Murakami Souta. He glanced at me and gave his final words before the start of the round.
"O' captain my captain."
I gave back a slight smile.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Current Positions:
1st: Hayashi Naoto
2nd: Endo Masaki
3rd: Hoshino Renji
4th: Tanabe Haruto
5th: Murakami Souta
6th: Morikawa Hayato
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
FWEEP!!!
BAM!!!
Naoto delivered a powerful jump serve to their back row, catching them by surprise. Their setter adapted quickly to the loose ball, and sent it straight to Shinazugawa's way.
"THREE BLOCKERS!!!"
"3.. 2... WH-!!"
Haruto and Renji were pushed away as Endo-kun jumped!?!
THUP!!!
The ball deflected right out of Endo's hands!
"ONE TOUCH!"
I looked to the left, Renji was on the ground but Haruto was already moving!
"HAYATO! THE BALL!"
BUMP!!!
I sent it Souta's way, but Endo-kun and Haruto were the only choices. Where's the ball going?!
FWUPP!!!
To Endo!
"Tch!"
"WHAT!?! ENDO MASAKI HESITATED TO SPIKE AGAINST ONE BLOCKER AND TIPPED THE BALL OVER!!!"
"Chance ball!"
Dang it Endo-kun! They have the ball again, and they're sending it the exact same way!
BAM!!!
BUMP!!!
"GAH!" Naoto yelped in pain.
He couldn't tank another hit from Shinazugawa, he sent the ball flying. It was an excellent cover move. He cross was aimed straight at the corner and he saw right through it!
I ran to catch the loose ball, I can get it-
zzzzooooooooooooOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOMMM!
"Haruto!"
He ran past me from the attack line! He dived towards the ball and bumped it back!
"M-Morikawa-senpai! Get back to the attack!!!"
Renji who had regained composure bumped the ball back to their side! I looked back and saw Hayato on the floor.
"FOCUS!! SENPAI!"
They're players haven't shed a brink of sweat! Our team is too unorganized!
BAM!!!
"AGH!!"
BBBBUMP!!!
Damn it, Souta's bump is off! And he's our setter, we're dead without a clean set! What do I do?!
Do I send the ball over? Do I try to start an attack? What do I do..? What do I-
"MORIKAWA-SENPAI!!! SEND IT UPWAAAARD!"
Renji. Amidst the chaos, he stood immovable. His feet anchored to the floor. His gaze cut through the storm of the court. Those same glowing eyes from the day we first crossed paths.
I raised my hands upward, my hands and my fingers mimicking Souta's frame. The ball flew down slowly, like an angel's clipped wings. Our final attack. The attack to tie the game, the set that decides everything!
I set the ba-
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
I've kept your words to heart coach. I know they can't see it, I know they might even try to deny it, but I know they've been working every damn day for this moment.
Their blood. Their sweat. Their tears. Sacrificed for this very day.
I feel it too. The sweat dripping from my scalp to the soles of my feet...
But damn it... It's still annoying.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
slip.
"THE BALL SLIPS FROM MORIKAWA HAYATO'S HANDS AND HITS THE GROUND! POINT TO SHŌNAN TAKAO!"
Damn it.
"FUKUI SEIMEI'S TEAM HAS TAKEN A TREMENDOUS HIT BY THAT LAST POINT! THE SCORE IS NOW 24:23!"
The ball slipped from my fingers and hit the floor. The silence that followed was heavier than the whistle. The team was in shambles.
What happened in that rally..? How did everything fall apart so fast..?
And then it struck me.
Our strength doesn't come from unity, not from trust or cooperation. In actuallity, emerge from individual talents acting independently.
Endo-kun's iron wall,
Naoto's unyielding coverage,
Souta's adaptive and sharp setting,
Renji's undying fire,
Haruto's lightning speed,
Itsuki's turret-like spike,
and Yuuta's unshakable clutch factor.
But together..? Do they truly connect? Or are we just a collection of sparks, burning bright but never forming a single flame?
Sure our unity is somewhere, but their individuality shines brighter than any sun. Shit...
"Morikawa-senpai.."
I looked back, Haruto was slowly walking back to his position... Dragging a limp left leg back to the court.
"H-Haruto.."
"I... Don't want to lose."
Haruto didn't look at me. He didn't even look at his teammates. His eyes were fixed straight ahead.
And when I noticed, I realized everyone else was the same. Their gazes weren't on each other, but on the court in front of them. As if the future lay only there.
But... Why? Haruto was injured and Souta and Naoto were drained empty. Why does no one care? Am I not seeing something they're seeing?
This. This isn't volley ball.
FWEEEEEEEEPPP!
The referee's whistle blew long and sharp. His arm slicing downward.
"MATCH SET! FUKUI SEIMEI FORFEITS!"
The cheers stood still. It took a few seconds for the team to realize what had happened.
"...What..?"
. . .
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
January 6th, 2015. 8:28 PM.
Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium, Locker Room.
"WHAT THE HELL WAS THAT?!" Endo-kun erupted.
"ARE YOU FUCKS SERIOUSLY INCAPABLE OF RECEIVE A SPIKE THAT SLOW?!?"
"We wouldn't have had to receive it if you could DO YOUR JOB AS A BLOCKER!"
"I've been stuck at the right side of the damn court, how do you expect me to block a shot aimed at fucking HARUTO!?"
"YOU SHOVED HOSHINO-SENPAI AND CAUSED US ALL TO TIP OVER!!" Haruto retorted, clutching his injured knee.
"If I didn't do that we wouldn't have been able to deflect that fucker's spike, wouldn't we???"
Half the team erupted into arguments, while the other half sat in silence, each lost in the weight of what had just happened.
Creeeak...
The locker room door opened, and coach stepped inside.
Instantly, the noise died.
"Oi." Endo-kun's voice cut through the silence.
"Why the fuck did you forfeit the match?! EVERYONE HERE COULD HAVE KEPT GOING! I COULD HAVE KEPT GOING-".
He froze mid shout.
Coach's right hand was clenched so tightly his knuckles had gone white. A thin trickle of blood seeped from his palm and dripped on to the floor.
"C-Coach.." Haruto's voice cracked.
"I'm sorry. I couldn't..." He said.
"I couldn't bare to see you all kill yourselves out there."
The room fell soundless. Coach took a shaky breath.
Did you think I didn't see it? The bruises... The injuries... The way you pushed yourselves past the point of breaking. Winning means nothing if it takes everything from you! I swore I'd protect-.."
His words caught in his throat. He staggered, clutching his chest, his breath hitching. The players froze as his knees fell.
"C-Coach?!"
"COACH?!!?"
"COACH?!!/...."
. . .
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Fukui Seimei Highschool
Tuesday, April 7, 2015
"I'M HERE! Hehe!"
Takeda Mamoru declares, as he enters Fukui Seimei Highschool!