Chapter Text
Do, or do not.
There is no try.
Yoda | Star Wars, Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back
Wakatoshi knew that serving first would give his team an advantage—especially with Oikawa’s incredible accuracy—but there was nothing like opening a match up with a powerful and definitive hit. Selfishly, he wanted to put on a bit of show for the Tigers. And Yua, of course.
The boys were trying to work out which lucky four would be linesman for the first game. All of them wanted the advantage of watching their idols play up close and personal. After a few minutes of intense negotiations and bribing, Rui, Tsuda, Oyama, and Arai hurriedly took their spots at the corners of the court. Saitou-sensei also agreed to act as referee, as he also couldn’t resist seeing an old high school rivalry play out in real time.
The match was best of 3, with the first two sets capped at 21 points, and then 15 points if a third set was necessary. Of course, each set had to be won by at least 2. And lastly, no dinks were allowed, as the teams were cut in half. Wakatoshi had grown to love 3v3 matches because they were challenging. There was no place to hide on the court, and the structure forced players to be creative with scoring points. Both teams would have only a few minutes to plan their strategies, so the Adlers’ ace joined Oikawa and Aone on their side of the court.
“Normally, I would’ve opted to serve first.” Oikawa sighed as he folded his hands behind his head. “But attacking first is fun.”
Wakatoshi nodded. As suspected, Kageyama would serve first. He was used to the setter’s jump serve and knew he could comfortable send it to Oikawa if it came his way. “I thought the same. Attacking first is the best way to set the tone for the game.”
“Merciless as ever, Ushiwaka-kun.” Oikawa cocked his head as he threw him a side glance. “I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I’m glad to be on your team for once. You know I hate losing.”
Wakatoshi suddenly realized that he and the infamous setter had never played on the same team. Shiratorizawa Junior High and Kitagawa Daiichi were always vying for the top spot, so he and Oikawa were rivals from the moment they set foot on court.
“Our blocks are technically stronger,” Aone stated confidently. “But we’ll have to play smart because we won’t be able to put up a three-man wall.”
“Smart is my specialty.” Oikawa teased with a grin. “What were they feeding you over at Date-Ko? It seemed like everyone on your team grew a foot each year.”
“Even Washijou-sensei was cautious of your read blocking,” Wakatoshi chuckled. “He could never get Tendou to warm up to your technique.”
The tall man smiled, unable to hide his pride at the compliments. “Good thing I’m on your side this time.”