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Chapter Text

Chapter 1: I just want to cherish what it is we have now

Prologue : Starting point

2st - 4rd July (Mon-Wed)

For Sawamura Daichi, Sawamura Eijun was the most worrisome and yet the most longing cousin he had missed in a long time.

That little sun of his was always a ray of light in his day and when he heard the slightest bit of bad news about him, it was enough to make him skip a beat.

As of right now, Daichi's heart sank, trying to repeat the words from the other side of the phone, “w-what was it?”

There was another deep sigh. “Mom said Ei-chan was hospitalized three days ago. Now he's in Nagano, Emi asked him to come home.”

“What?!” Daichi unconsciously yelled, his friends gave him a quizzical look.

“What's wrong Daichi-san-?” He kept silent, instead tightening the cell phone in his hand even more. It felt like the world stopped and only the words, “Ei-chan is in the hospital” rang in his head.

“I'll be there immediately!”

“Eh, Dai-chan, Mom hasn't-” Daichi didn't care if his mother would punish him later or the barrage of questions his friends would ask when he returned. Right now there was the most important thing he needed to make sure of. That his little sun was completely fine.

“Ukai-san, I'm excused from practice today. I have some urgent matters at home.” Not even waiting for a reply, Daichi hurriedly put in all the newly changed clothes and clean towels that hadn't been used yet. A hand held out a water bottle halted his movements. Suga gave him a concerned look.

“I hope everything is okay.” 

“So do I, thank you Suga. I'll go first, the rest I'll leave to you.” Suga nodded. Daichi wasted no time, immediately booking a ticket to Nagano, stomping his feet impatiently. 

Sawamura Eijun, was a younger cousin whom he had think of as a brother. They did not share blood directly but just the words of the hospital followed by Eijun were enough to make him lose his mind. Eijun shouldn't be hurt, he should be laughing happily even without him. Daichi didn't want to see Eijun cry so he chose to stay away rather than watch tears fall from his golden eyes. After receiving the call his hands were still shaking until this moment he opened the door full of memories, barging in without greeting.

“Eijun!” In front of the four family members, Daichi stumbled. He could feel his whole body heating up, sweating, his face blanched, anxious, as well as his hands shaking violently. 

“Dai-nii?” Eijun, the figure he was worried about just moments ago, looked at him absently. 

For the sake of everything Daichi's eyes were still blind, he didn't see Eijun who was being messed with by his grandpa Eitoku. Or didn't notice the bright-faced Emi and Eiichi with spoons ready to feed Eijun. The only thing in his view was Eijun sitting in a safe state- thank God!

“Ei! Are you alright? I heard from mom that you were hospitalized three days ago? Gosh, why did mom just tell me now?” With a panicked look he spun Eijun around, pulling on his arm, which ended up cupping both cheeks. There were no visible injuries anywhere, except-

“Your head-! You have a big bump on your head, Ei!” Daichi reflexively pressed it, only realizing when Eijun gasped. “Dai-nii why are you-!”

Suddenly a warm embrace ran through Eijun's body. Is this real? Daichi who he hadn't seen in a long time. The older cousin who he always thought was the coolest person in the world, who he always followed, and who left him. “Sorry, Ei. I really mean it.”

Eijun could feel tears gathering in the wells of his eyes. “I know I'm horrible and I don't deserve your apology, you can hate me, you can punish me, but not in this way. I don't want to see you hurt, Ei. It makes me hurt, you know?” The smile on Eijun's face shattered the wall in Daichi's heart. The tears that had flowed did not diminish the light in Eijun's golden eyes. This baby brother of his definitely deserves the world's best. 

“Why did you only come when I was hurt?!!! Do I have to be like this all the time for you to see me, huh!? You are terrible Dai-nii! You're soooo horrible!!!” Eijun ranted, all of his frustration when Daichi suddenly walked away with no words spilling out. He struggled to wipe away the tears that were welling up, 

“ I beg you, don't. Just this once Ei, I can't watch you get hurt again. You are right, I am terrible. So punish me, I deserve it.” The corners of his eyes also began to tear as Eijun desperately clutched at his shirt. 

“You know, you're a jerk!” he cried even louder. Daichi tightened his arms around Eijun and pulled him closer to him.

“Yes, I'm sorry, Ei. I'm truly sorry.” for some time the two stayed in that position until Eijun's crying subsided. His and Eijun's clothes were completely drenched but the embrace between them did not loosen.

“Well, are you guys better now?” Emi set down tea and a plate of sweet treats to comfort the two. “Hm, maybe?” Eijun blew his nose with the tissue Daichi had given him, then finished the tea in one go. 

“Maybe? You are such a cruel person, Ei,” Daichi chuckled, ignoring the bitterness in his heart. 

“Dai-nii was the one who asked for my punishment.” Eijun stuck out his tongue like a child, which made him even more adorable. 

“Yes, yes. What should this Sawamura Daichi do to make you stop sulking, hm?” 

“Huh ... there is nothing.” Eijun looked away while Daichi blinked. Nothing? 

“You ... simply no longer need to stay away from me. You hear me?! Don't suddenly disappear again, okay?” Daichi's heart tightened. He was really grateful to have a brother who was as wonderful as Eijun but sometimes he felt anxious. Whether people said Eijun was just a fairly honest, cheerful, and overly innocent kid or said Eijun was a stupid kid who was easily fooled just because he liked to express his emotions clearly. They are the ones who are both blind and foolish! Even though they themselves didn't realize they had been deceived by this overzealous Sawamura Eijun. 

Clearly they didn't know or didn't want to know the other side of Sawamura Eijun. Because in Daichi's eyes, Eijun was just a kid who liked to make others happy and therefore liked to keep everything to himself. 

“Heh, you two, are you done? Then hurry up and come here, I'll beat you in shogi.” Eitoku and Eiichi were currently chilling in the living room. Just as Daichi hugged Eijun, the three had moved away, leaving time for the two. And well, right now they were forced to play shogi, a sport he was not good at but surprisingly Eijun was better than him. 

That afternoon was filled with cries of protest from Eijun, grumbles of annoyance from Eitoku, and laughter from the rest of the group. 

Ace.

Number one.

On top of the mound.

With the smell of freshly cut grass. 

To this day Eijun can still vividly remember the sun hitting his face. 

In the ninth inning, Eijun blew out a sharp breath. His physicality had reached its limit, all his teammates' legs and he himself were as weak as jelly. But the fire in their eyes still burned strong. It's the first time they've made it this far. It was only the third round, but for a small team that liked to be underestimated like them, it was clear that their achievement was history. 

Eijun snorted. But this wasn't the end of their journey. This was just the beginning! And Sawamura Eijun wouldn't stop until they reached that stage everyone was talking about. 

National.  

Eijun dropped the rosin, blowing the remnants of white powder from his hands. It was the only way he could repay the debt of gratitude to everyone who supported him. The only way he could prove that he was a pitcher worthy of this jersey number. 

Number one.

Ace.

Eijun nodded to his catcher - Nobu - and went through the motions that had seeped into his bones over the past three years. His body might be exhausted, his fire might be dwindling, but his fastball was getting sharper.

Eijun could feel the world stop, only the ball kept moving towards the mitt, the batter was silent for a moment then the next second his arm had swung, his bat hit the ball hard.

Clang.

The small white object shrank further into the vast sky. Stifled breaths became shouts of complete exhilaration. Nine tense innings, nine amazing games, and in these nine innings their team's dream was crushed, ending just in the third round of the qualifying match. 

The. Third. Round.

Reality slowly crawled over him, Eijun witnessed smiles and tears from the top of this mound. Two different sides with two different fates. They won and he lost. 

“It's okay, everyone. We have fought hard!” He encouraged his friends who had tears in their eyes. As captain, Ace, and coach of this team, he had to stand strong, not show any vulnerability. 

“It's okay ...” unfortunately his brain couldn't cooperate, without him realizing the tears were falling slowly. His companions were getting more and more hysterical watching him. “Ei-chan!” 

“... we ... we fought so hard!” 

“You're right, Ei.” They hugged him tightly. That day, on the same mound that had cost him the game, he vowed-to take his friends to the stage of Koshien in high school. 

“Ei-chan! Congratulations on being invited to Seido!!!” Eijun was flabbergasted in front of the house, he knew he should have forced his grandfather not to tell the other neighbors-huft, surely his grandfather was bragging again in a loud voice that he was invited by Seido. 

“No, what do you mean? I'm going to turn down Seido's invitation because I made a promise with you guys, right? Seido isn't that good anyway, they're just Tokyo kids who are too arrogant!” Eijun drew up the corners of his mouth that were visibly forced. Fifteen years he had grown up with them, it was obvious they saw through the lies he wanted to hide. 

“Eijun,” Wakana called him without a nickname-a sign she was serious or angry, “don't lie to yourself, Ei. I-we, want you in the best place possible and Seido is definitely the way to go.” 

“But I'm your ace!” 

“Since you're our ace, we want you on the mound with an even higher stage. And that's in Koushien. Frankly, with us, you'll have a hard time getting there.” 

“Wakana!” Eijun didn't like them belittling the hard work they'd put in. All this time they had been willing to train with him, help maintain the club, and volunteer to support him just because they wanted to see him happy. Eijun knew their love for baseball had faded long ago, but because he still loved it and even considered it his life, they stayed by his side, helping him achieve his dreams. His repayment to them would never be enough, especially since he failed to bring them to that stage. He was not worthy of being called an Ace.  

“Eijun, listen. You're the best ace we could ask for. I know what you're thinking so stop thinking about it or I'll ask Eitoku-san to embed it in you,” the smile on Wakana's face gave him chills. 

“Wa-wakana! Don't bring Jii-san into this.” 

“ I have to, you're very hard-headed, so I need someone who's also hard-headed to remind you.” Wakana folded her arms, her gaze signaling him to refute. Seeing him sulking, all his friends laughed, finding Eijun amusing. 

“The thing is Ei, we just want you to be happy. I won't say anymore with us that you failed to reach Koshien, but now it's time for you to spread your wings. By being in Seido, you can take one step towards it.” this time Wakana gave him a gentle smile, a smile that could always strengthen his heart. The rest of the group nodded in agreement. 

“You didn't betray us Ei, instead you brought the Akagi team spirit with you. Take us to that stage with number one on your back. We'll look forward to that day.” feelings of warmth and pride flowing inside of him, Eijun wipes the corners of his eyes, nodding determinedly. 

“I'll carry that spirit with me during my time in Seido.”

With a wave of their hands, tears flowed, filling his vision. Eijun fell silent. “Goodbye, Ei! I actually still want to play with you!” 

“Hey, we promised not to mention it.” 

“Sorry Ei, me too!” 

“Eijun.” 

“Ei-chan.” 

The train doors blocking his view, Eijun was still frozen in place when all his friends waved, catching up to the train that was slowly moving away from the station. “Eijun, don't ever give up and just keep going. Remember we're here to support you!” 

The time that had stopped seemed to slowly start running again, his tears seemed to have fallen since when, he squeezed tightly the hat Wakana gave him with precious words written inside.

Once again Eijun vowed to take that number one back and bring both Seido and Akagi to the stage called Koshien. 

“You know Sawamura Eijun?” 

“Ah, the first year who striked out Azuma-san that time. Yes, I heard he's been promoted to second string!” 

“No way, he's only in first grade.” 

“That's right. I heard from the tryouts that his grades were decent, but what got him selected was his pitching that caught Kantoku's attention.” 

“Tch, even we, who have been three years, can't even catch his attention.” 

“Indeed, many first graders nowadays are arrogant.”

Eijun's hand stopped on one of the vending machine buttons, the orange juice he had wanted to buy now losing its charm in his eyes. On wobbly legs he returned to the room, ignoring the greetings from his teammates, immediately climbing onto the bed, covering himself with the blanket. 

“Hey, where's my drink?” Kuramochi-senpai, Eijun's roommate - who played ps in front of the tv - was also like an older brother to him. 

“Sorry, mochi-senpai. I forgot,” he replied curtly. At that moment Kuramochi immediately realized that there was something different about Eijun today. He paused his game for a moment, glancing at the upper bunk, “What's wrong? You're not feeling well?” He climbed the stairs, looking at Eijun's back from under the covers.

“ ... well I guess. I probably skipped dinner, wasn't in the mood.” 

Kuramochi looked at him intently, sighing. “Make sure you eat a lot tomorrow morning. Also ... you know you can always talk to me, right.” 

“Mmn,” Slightly, he could see Eijun who nodded. “Then I'll turn off the light.” 

“Yes, good night Mochi-senpai.”
 
As the door closed, the sound of the clock's ticking replaced the noise of the room. 

In the darkness the words were still looping like a broken record. Eijun clutched his chest, breathing roughly. He should have known it wasn't that easy to gain their trust. Granted he was just a child from a rural village, but he worked just as hard as the other children. Wasn't it natural for him to beat the seniors who were ahead of him? Did he have to give in because of seniority? 

Just because they are older, even though we are only 2 years apart in age!?

He tightened the blanket, pulling it so that all of his body was covered. 

“I'll prove it and shut the mouths of those who say what they want. I will snatch that jersey number as soon as possible. Just you wait Seido!”

Eijun had indeed promised to take that jersey number - the number on the back of the currently fallen Ace. Eijun swore this was not how he wanted it. His heart leapt as Tanba-senpai - Seido's current Ace - was hit by a ball from the opposing pitcher's wild throw. 

He could feel his hands shaking, his complexion growing pale, and his heart racing even though he wasn't the one hit by the pitch - not to mention the sudden chills from his friends' reactions.

“Whoever is on top of the mound is the Ace.” Those words became a new light in Eijun's path. Thanks to it he reaffirmed his resolve. After a suffocating silence, the practice game resumed, Tanba-senpai was taken to the hospital to be checked out and he took his place as a substitute pitcher-replacing him as an Ace.

Eijun doesn't want to just replace him. He wanted to snatch it from him and make it his own. He wants to be a real ace. By his own efforts instead of being given.

“I feel sorry for Tanba.”

“Yes, this is his last year.” 

“Especially with two first-years ready to take his number from him.” 

“I don't think Furuya is ready to take it, but if Sawamura-” 

“Yes, if it's him, we all know he has the ability. I'm sure Kataoka Kantoku thinks the same thing.” 

“Right, it's a pity that Tanba is currently injured. I bet Sawamura is quite pleased that he's injured at the moment. We know how eager he is to take that position.” 

The others nodded from his remarks. “Yes, I'm sure he's planning to secure that position with a sense of excitement by now.” 

Pleased? 

Him? 

They thought he was glad to see Tanba-senpai injured?

The loud noise accompanied by his fallen body, Eijun still dreamed of it until now. That nightmare continues to haunt him! Kuramochi-senpai is getting worried about his lack of sleep. And they think he's happy because he can become an Ace faster?

Ridiculous.

The truth is, he's really tormented by it. 

“Eijun!!! Watch out!” Blinking a few times, he was pulled to reality the instant a volleyball hit his face. He forgot that his class was currently in PE and they were playing volleyball with the class next door. Still in a daze, his body slammed into the floor, hitting his head quite hard. 

“Oi, Sawamura!!!” Kanemaru, Haruichi, Furuya and Tojou approached the dazed Eijun struggling to sit up. 

“Stay still, we'll call sensei immediately.” the voices just passed through his ears, Eijun bent over, holding his head tightly. the buzzing in his head bothered him even more. 

“Sawamura Eijun-”

“...he will definitely be happy...”

“...Ace-!” 

“Ei!!!”

Eijun woke up with cold sweat soaking his entire body, his breath hitched. Beside him Daichi helped him up, hand on his back gently patting his back. 

“Are you okay?! Did your headache get worse?” Eijun's breathing was still ragged, his eyes unfocused, Daichi who realized that grabbed his shoulders, making Eijun face him. 

“Ei, you're okay. You're safe. I-your cousin Daichi is here, beside you. Breathe, Ei, follow my voice.” 

Perhaps because of his soothing voice or his warm touch, life slowly returned to Eijun's eyes. Slowly but surely the rhythm of his breathing stabilized with the help of the constant patting.

“Are you feeling better?” He accepted the glass from Eijun, his hand wiping his sweat-stained forehead. 

“Mmn, thanks Dai-nii.” 

“No big deal, Ei. ...but are you really okay?” 

Eijun let out a gruff sigh. “... just a Nightmare.” 

“Nightmare, huh?” 

'If it was just a nightmare you wouldn't be shaking like this Ei.' Daichi shook his head, his heart aching.

He was currently sitting on the edge of the bed, still gently patting Eijun's back. It was times like this that Daichi regretted. He knew perfectly well  that Eijun was hiding something but now was not the time to ask. 

“I just wanted to say, you know I'm always by your side, right?” He waited for Eijun's response, though quietly he at least nodded. 

“Since I'm not going anywhere anymore, don't keep it to yourself, promise?” Daichi held out a pinky finger-hell, he knew pinky promises seemed outdated-Daichi grumbled a little watching Eijun who alternately stared at him with his pinky finger. 

“Dai-nii-” the corners of Eijun's mouth turned up, he chuckled. Sometimes Daichi could do childish things like this.

“Ahh, I know, just hurry up if you want.” Before Daichi pulled back his hand, Eijun intertwined their fingers, making a promise in his heart. 

“You promise not to keep to yourself anything that burdens you anymore?” 

Eijun was silent for a moment, looking Daichi straight in the eyes. “... I promise-” I'll tell you everything when I can bear it any longer. Daichi could sense there was more to Eijun's words but it didn't matter, there would be a time for them to tell everything. 

The promise had been made, the two fingers pressed together, binding the promise.  

He just hoped it wouldn't be too late when that day came.

“Eijun, Uncle, Grandpa it's time for dinner.” Daichi called out from the kitchen, since the afternoon he had been helping Emi cook - he wasn't that good but at least his skills could help ease Emi's burden. 

“Eijun?” his head poked around the door, there was silence, he didn't see or hear Eijun anywhere. His pulse began to race. He was becoming more and more sensitive to Eijun because he is currently recovering. It felt like not seeing him for a second had cut his life in half. 

“Eijun's in the room,” Eitoku patted him on the shoulder, pointing the chin to the upstairs room. “He's out of the shower probably dressing.” a sigh of relief, his shoulders sagging weakly enough to tell Eitoku how tense he was. 

“ Just don't lock him up or he'll start to rebel.” He felt his shoulder tapped twice before raising an eyebrow. Lock him up? What did that mean? He was simply worried about Eijun, not wanting to see him get hurt even more. If possible he would forbid him from going out for the time being-

“Ah ... I'll try, Grandpa,” he muttered unconvincingly, he had become a terrible Big Brother. Eijun had the right to go out as long as he watched after him. Gosh, he could really die young. 

“Ei? It's dinner time.” he didn't hear a response from inside. Once again he knocked on the door, this time there was an “I'll be there” sound, five seconds of silence, before it was replaced by a scream. 

“Ack!”

“Eijun?!” in a flash he smashed the door, his eyes catching Eijun holding his head and another hand holding a cell phone. “What's wrong? Your head hurts again?” he hurriedly sat up straight, which made him stagger. Daichi could feel the grogginess from here. 

“Uh, Dai-nii. It's nothing, it's nothing. I just-” 

“Sawamura? Are you okay?” from the cell phone came a voice that was just as anxious as he was. Daichi flicked his chin towards the cell phone. “Ah, Chris-senpai! I'm fine, the baseball I threw almost hit me in the face by accident, but I was able to avoid it with a small stumble.” 

“Eijun!” 

“Sawamura!”

“Ehh?!” Eijun was startled by being pressed by two people - actually only Daichi, but just the sound of Chris' voice was enough to make him shudder. He straightened his back again, sitting in a seiza position. The cell phone was placed in the middle of the two.

“You know it's dangerous. It hasn't been three days since you got hurt and now you want to be injured again?”

"I've also forbidden you from touching baseballs, Sawamura. That includes at home and everywhere else. Do you understand?” 

“Yes ...” he replies quietly.

“Sorry Dai-nii I don't want to get hurt again, I'm just bored here without baseball. I also understand Chris-senpai, I reflexively picked it up because the ball was in front of me. Sorry.” His head hung further down. Seeing him like this really did remind them of an abandoned puppy. Simultaneously, they–Daichi and Chris (though Daichi didn't know where Chris could see it from, perhaps he was familiar with Eijun's quirks) sighed together. 

“Did you feel alright, though? Any pains?” his voice softened, his hands carefully checking Eijun. 

“Yes, I'm fine. Nothing hurts.”

“Good.” On the other side Chris also breathed a sigh of relief.

Eijun fiddled with the hem of his shirt, his face deeply scrunched up. “Ei, we're not angry with you, just concerned. What if you had fallen? Your head was hit again? You said yourself that you were bored because you couldn't play baseball.”

“True. We're also here waiting for your return, Sawamura. You haven't forgotten your goal, have you?” 

Eijun nodded vigorously, making Daichi frown, hurriedly stopping his antics. “I'll be the Ace and take you and Seido to Koshien, Senpai!” he clenched his fists, determined. 

“In that case, focus on recovering and coming back stronger. I'll be waiting for you here.” 

“Eh! Does that mean you'll catch my throw?!” The fire of enthusiasm flowed from Eijun, Daichi had to cover his ears-because it was too loud-and his eyes-because it was too blinding. 

“I'll consider it when you're healed. So listen to me and your brother, just focus on recovering.”  

Eijun saluted. “Yes, Shisho! This Sawamura Eijun will get the utmost rest.” Was there anyone who could make Eijun listen easily? Other than Eitoku and sometimes himself, it was rare for Daichi to see Eijun listen to the words of anyone other than those closest to him. He was more and more amazed by Chris' ability.

“As long as you understand, that's fine.” 

“Don't repeat that next time, Ei.” 

“'Aye, sir!”

Daichi and Chris chuckled. Eijun grabbed the cell phone again, eagerly reporting what had happened in the past three days. And again to both his surprise and disbelief, Chris was patient and listened intently. His curiosity seemed to show when Eijun looked at him in question. Who wouldn't be curious? Not many could stand Eijun's ramblings because sometimes Eijun was a bit chatty and a bit noisy when talking. 

Without realizing it, Eijun had been silent for a long time to suddenly grin. “Chris-senpai, do you want to talk to my older cousin? He has something to say to you~” Daichi's eyebrows rose. This boy, what a prankster.

“Ei,” he chided. 

He put his phone away, whispering, “I know you have a lot to ask about shisho. So, why don't you just talk in person?” 

“ That is indeed true-” 

“Dai-nii, I'm not your real brother but we grew up together. I'm naturally familiar with all your traits as well as your thoughts. Right now you want to know what Chris-senpai is like, right? So, just talk to him directly.” 

Daichi wanted to refuse, but his cell phone was already shoved in front of him. “Shisho said he also has something to talk about, it's okay to just talk Dai-nii.” the corners of Eijun's mouth widened to see him reluctantly accept the offer. Daichi sighed again, a smile etched on his face. This kid really was his weakness. 

“Hello?” 

“Ah, hello. Greetings once again, I'm Daichi Ei- I mean Sawamura's cousin.” Daichi felt awkward, he was worried about giving a first impression that was... not cool at all. Next to him Eijun just chuckled at his nervousness. 

“Nice to meet you too Daichi-san, I'm Takigawa Chris Yuu Sawamura's senior.” He could feel the pride of being Eijun's senior in his voice. Slowly his hesitation subsided. 

“Eum, Chris-san? First of all, as Sawamura's older cousin, I sincerely thank you for training him as well as supporting him. I've heard a lot about it from him and I'm glad there's someone reliable by his side.” 

Daichi paused to hear the response from the other side. 

Five seconds passed, Chris coughed before replying, “There's no need for that. It's my job to train Sawamura and as for the latter, Sawamura does have an appeal that makes you want to support him. Even without my help he would still be a great player and that's why he deserves to be supported.” Daichi smiled at that, glancing at Eijun who was looking at him curiously. His heart was at ease, there was someone who was sincere and concerned for his little brother. 

“... I do owe him anyway,” Chris murmured barely audible to Daichi. Daichi's eyebrows raised, glancing back at Eijun who tilted his head. Hm? There's something between them, he thought. Even so it wasn't his place to ask about their personal matter.

Daichi suddenly grinned, an idea crossing his mind. It wasn't that he was a spiteful person - this was just a little payback for earlier “Also, I apologize to you because this little cousin of mine must have troubled you a lot all this time. Thank you again and I would appreciate your help! Even if he's a little overbearing to handle.” 

He heard Chris chuckle before hearing the hysterical Eijun beside him. “Da-Dai-nii!”

“Alright. Thank you for your trust in me. I'll keep a good eye on him.” Daichi chuckled, nodding. 

Eijun forcefully grabbed his cell phone. “Dai-nii give me back my cell phone. Shiso! I'm not a trouble, right? I'm a good student, right?!” 

Daichi winced, not understanding why Chris could be so patient with his younger brother. “Yes, Sawamura. You're not a troublesome kid.” Eijun breathed a sigh of relief before Chris continued, “as long as you don't go out of your way and break the rules.” 

Abruptly Eijun saluted as if Chris could see him, Daichi shaking his head at the action. “This Sawamura Eijun promises not to break the rules and will continue to be a good student.” 

“Hmm. I'll keep your promise.” 

 “Of course. This Sawamura Eijun is also always true to his word.” They continued talking for some time before Eitoku banged on the door, said they had waited too long at the dining table, and now dragged the two children mercilessly away. Chris flinched slightly at the commotion from the other side, cracking a small smile, before taking the initiative to hang up the call. The last thing he heard was Eijun's begging his grandfather for mercy. 

The morning air in Nagano was different from the morning air in Miyagi. Although both were not in urban areas, the atmosphere was clearly different. Nagano leans more towards rural areas while Miyagi has quite a lot of residential areas around it. 

On this morning that was still veiled in fog, Eijun had dragged him exactly 5 am! Once again at 5 am! He had woken him up at 4, but Daichi vehemently refused - it was still dark, no one was up that early. So he couldn't resist anymore after an hour of Eijun pacing back and forth in the room.

“Do you always wake up this early, Ei? Is everyone in Seido like you?” 

“No, I usually wake up earlier than everyone else, jogging every morning always calms me down. The guys usually wake up around 6, an hour before morning practice starts.” 

“That means you guys start training at 7?” 

“Hm, yeah. It always starts with a run as a warm-up after which we eat and shower, and then we do what we want to do until school starts. But most of us go back to practice stuff for a while, like lifting weights, doing towel drills for us pitchers or batting practice.” There were still so many things Eijun mentioned, the thought of all that time spent practicing gave Daichi goosebumps. 

Once again he was reminded of Eijun entering one of the powerhouse schools in the Tokyo area. Seido, Inashiro Industrial, and Ichidai Sankou were the three schools with the strongest baseball teams in the Western Tokyo region. If those three were spread out over the various regions, they would automatically enter Koshien-not that the other teams were weak, it was just that those three schools had long been known to compete with each other, so they were always strong.

“What about Dai-nii himself? How are your friends, are they any good?” Eijun probably saw the grim face earlier, he immediately changed the topic, such an Eijun. 

“Yeah ... you know. They're nothing compared to taking care of you who's more hardheaded than a rock, hahaha.” Eijun's face turned sour. “That's not funny Dai-nii!” he puffed out his cheeks, annoyed. 

Daichi playfully pressed the cheeks of that baloon. “Hey, that's true. On our team there's Tanaka-who's sometimes mistaken for a thug, though he does act like one sometimes. There's also Nishinoya and Hinata who are both tiny but have inexhaustible energy. There was also Tsukishima who was always sharp-tongued - sometimes I got tired of dealing with him myself. Then there's Asahi-who also likes to be mistaken for an old man, and Suga who is a soft-hearted person- but don't make him angry, once Tanaka bothered him when he was in a bad mood, he smiled but-” without explaining Eijun could imagine that sweet but prickly smile - similar to Ryo-senpai who both liked to put on that eerie smile. 

“They sound troublesome when you explain them.” 

“Ahaha, that's right. Apparently you seemed more composed than them this time.”  

“I told you I was a good boy.” Eijun puffed out his chest proudly. 

“Yeah, whatever you like, Ei.”

The sunlight slowly fell on their faces. It was both warm and soothing, along with the chirping of birds, both of them exhaling faint fumes from their mouths. In the middle of the field, they lay down, the smell of freshly cut grass tickling their noses. Just for now they wanted to enjoy the limited time that rarely came. Putting aside the past full of regrets, the future with uncertainties, there was now only the present that was clearly in front of the eyes. 

With their eyes closed, the gentle breeze played with their hair mischievously, encouraging both of them to fall asleep for a while, forcing them to forget about everything. 

That morning, there was only peace in the warm silence. 

The one that blends all feelings into a dreamy peacefulness. 

“How long will Dai-nii stay here?” his Leg swung quietly, in front of the terrace Daichi practiced serving with a volleyball that was apparently still stored at home.

“Probably until Wednesday tomorrow. I've already had two days off from school and tomorrow is my third day off from training. We have a match in a month and we want to practice as much as we can. You have a match too, right?” 

“Hm, yeah,” he replied reluctantly. Daichi caught the floating ball, staring at Eijun intently. “What's wrong? Are you afraid of losing?” 

“No-it's not like that ... well yes, I'm a little, remember just a little, afraid that if we lose the third year seniors will lose their summer.” 

This was a sensitive topic, Daichi knew it best, as next year would probably be his last year at Karasuno. Daichi moved to sit beside him. “Ei, you know all things must come to an end.” 

“Yes, but ... I want to bring this team, the current team to Koshien. What if we don't succeed and I might be the cause of their failure? How will those who worked hard for three years for that dream feel only to be stopped in their tracks by a mere first-year like me?” His chest felt tight. As strong as he was, Eijun was also just a human being. It felt like the wall of negativity was tearing away, creeping up on him bit by bit, and pulling him down, trying to swallow him whole.  

It was only thanks to a piece of rope that he hadn't fallen completely. 

Daichi realized that, he saw the dark swirl in Eijun's eyes. His hand slowly reached out, patting Eijun's head a few times before grabbing his shoulder, patting it again, and bringing the two of them closer together. “Sawamura Eijun. Do you know what that name means?” 

In the midst of his confusion Daichi's question pulled him slightly from the void. “Hm? What does it mean?” 

“You know there was a first pitcher who brought Japan back to its glory days!” a smile broke out at the sight of Eijun's eyes lighting up again.

“You're not lying, are you?” 

“If you don't believe me you can look it up on the internet.” He shrugged, feeling unfair. A small laugh slipped from Eijun's mouth. 

“The pitcher's name is Sawamura Eiji. You're named after him. Isn't that great?” Eijun nodded in agreement, pride in his eyes.

“The point I'm trying to make is that you're a great kid Ei. You are destined for greatness. However, listen to me, it's okay if you reach a dead end. It's okay if you need time to turn around, go back the way you came, or even if you end up choosing a different path, starting all over again. Because whatever you choose, all of us-your family, your closest friends, and everyone here-will fully support your decision. I mean it, Ei, because all we want is your happiness, nothing more and nothing less. Understand?” Eijun's eyes blurred, tears vying to fall freely from his eyes. 

“That's why, Ei, no one will blame you if your team loses-I'll pray for them to win, of course-but everyone has their obligations and roles. All you need to do is perform that role to the best of your ability and leave the rest to others to do their job, as well as to fate. In the end, we can only do what we can.” 

His hand that was tired and almost let go of the rope seemed to gain new strength. In that depthless nothingness a hand seemed to be outstretched and the owner of that hand was Daichi - who smiled warmly in acceptance. He tried to grab it, wanting to receive all of its warmth. “Da-Dai-nii ...” 

Daichi chuckled, rubbing Eijun's wet cheeks, “You're a crybaby, huh. From childhood until now. Still doesn't change.” 

“Huhuhu ... Dai-nii ... that ... that's not funny.” Eijun struggled to wipe away his spilling tears.

“Haha, yes-yes.” his arms squeezed tighter around his shoulders. “Don't change, Ei. Don't change. Just be like this, okay?”

In front of the two, crimson orange filled the scenery, the orange orb slowly descending from its throne soon to be replaced by the moon. 

The warmth from the body temperature dispelled the chill of the afternoon air. 

In this quiet atmosphere, the two just sat and relaxed until the moon finally descended into the sky. 

When Eijun and Daichi arrived at the station - the next day - they were greeted by Wakana, Nobu, and all their friends with a feeling of excitement that could match Eijun. It was rare that they could go to Tokyo together if not like now. Also since today was Daichi's last day here he wanted to spend some time together before they went back to their respective lives.

“Ei-chan!” Wakana waved a hand which was greeted with a crisp laugh from Eijun. 

“ Eh, Dai-chan's coming too!?” Daichi smiled, nodding to everyone. 

“Yeah, I'm here as your watchdog so you don't get lost. Especially someone here.” he grinned nosily. 

“I told you I won't get lost again, Dai-nii. Tokyo is like a second home to me!” 

“Oh, yeah? As long as you don't get distracted by cats again, maybe I'll believe you.” They all laughed, Eijun's eyes reflexively becoming cat eyes, agitated. 

During the train ride they talked a lot, the problem was that Eijun couldn't stay still, so they got reprimanded by other passengers. That's why now Daichi is holding Eijun's head, also bowing to apologize, because as we know who is the cause of their being scolded at this time. 

Huft, it feels like Daichi's life has reduced by half even though it hasn't been a day since they left.  

Getting off the train, their first destination was of course the tourist attractions. Eijun wanted to take them to the baseball stadium but they stopped him, saying that if they had time they would visit it later.   

That noon, Wakana forced him to try Onigiri - which oh God! Turns out it had nato in it?! Eijun's face immediately bleached while Wakana blinked innocently, apologizing. The onigiri in her hand filled with tuna mayo, so she didn't know the other one contained natto. To cheer up his somber look Nobu took him to a souvenir shop, giving him a baseball-shaped keychain as a gift. Which managed to cheer up his mood easily.

Not just Eijun, the others bought a few things, until Wakana asked them to come closer, revealing a colorful bracelet of the same design. “This is a friendship bracelet!” Wakana exclaimed cheerfully. Eijun, Nobu, and the others exchanged glances for a moment. The friendship bracelets were a little ... outdated. 

“Oh, yes Dai-chan too, here I give you one.” In unison they looked at the now overwhelmed Daichi. There were a few seconds of silence before they all sighed, nodded, finally decided. 

So what if it was outdated? As long as their friend was happy that was enough for them.

After struggling with their internal thoughts, they continued to go to various places. They tried many foods, bought goodies for people back home to share, and took many photos as mementos. 

“Ei try posing over there.” Nobu directed him to stand in front of the shrine gate after taking turns with the others. 

“Dai-nii, let's take a picture together!” Wakana pushed Daichi who was a little embarrassed by Eijun's rather loud voice. 

“Okay, get ready! One, two, three, smile!” Eijun posed, his two fingers made a peace sign while Daichi put his hand on Eijun's head. They smiled widely. Anyone who saw these two cousins would definitely smile along. 

“Ugh, Dai-nii, I'm stopping by the restroom for a bit, you guys go ahead.” 

“Then I'll take you-” 

“As I said Tokyo is my second home Dai-nii, you can rest easy, I've been to this area.” 

Not even a second had passed before Eijun was running away. Daichi wanted to chase after him when a voice stopped him. “Sawamura-?” Daichi snapped to attention. In front of him stood a figure he recognized very well.

“Ouch, where's the restroom? I thought it was around here,” Eijun looked around, taking in the surroundings. If Daichi found out he was lost again, he was doomed. 

“Ah, hey! You there.” his hand held back the half-blonde haired boy, Eijun knew he was being rude but this was an emergency. 

“Do you know where the restrooms are?” The other person paused, he slowly nodded pointing down the street. 

“Uwahh, sorry I can't take it anymore! You just show me the way-!” With lightning speed Eijun pulled his hand away, they both ran around with the boy's direction. Thankfully not far away, the door he was searching for finally appeared. Without wasting any time, he immediately entered, leaving the boy in who knows what condition. 

“Wahh, what a relief. Good thing I still have time ... eh, you were still here?” The boy he thought had left was still waiting at the door, with a game console in hand -he looked up, hesitating to answer. “Eum, actually ... I got separated from my friend,” his voice was so small, Eijun had to get closer, “What?”

“I said I got separated from my friend, so ... do you know the way?” 

Eijun blinked a few times. Does he look like someone who memorized the road? “Eum, hehe, it seems I'm also ... lost (again). But! I'm sure we can find them. Just stay positive.” He puffed out his chest as if he had said the most revolutionary thing in the world. The boy didn't make any comment, just stared at him silently, it seemed like he was at a loss to deal with someone like Eijun. 

“Alright come on, let's finish the mission of conquering this area of Tokyo!” 

“Hm, we just need to find our friends, but okay.” Turning a challenge into a mission in a game? He was an expert! Taking a quick glance, he thought, it looks like he could like this brown-haired boy.

The two held hands so as not to lose each other - though Eijun was the one pulling, walking in front while the boy had no problem being pulled by him. 

Oh, gosh, so adorable, they were acting like elementary school children who wanted to cross the street, maybe that's what the passersby were thinking. 

Without realizing that the sky above them was starting to turn a shade of orange, Eijun, who was not too happy with the silence, invited the boy to talk. At first he only got a nod or a short answer in return, but when he mentioned the game he often played with Kuramochi-senpai in the dorm, the boy's eyes lit up. 

Bingo. 

Eijun smiled widely, he knew what topic to talk to him ... 

Some time passed, this is the umpteenth time Eijun has nagged. “You know? It's so annoying! Why do I always lose against my senior? It feels like he plays that game more often than practice.” 

“Practice? What sport do you-?”

“Eijun!” 

“Ei-chan.” 

“Ei!!!”

Their conversation stopped, a sudden chill ran down Eijun's spine. “Ah, guys ...!” 

“Eijun, where have you been all this time? We've been looking for you since earlier. Then why didn't you pick up the call?!” Daichi was itching to nuzzle Eijun's cheeks but Eijun was still recovering. 

“Eh?! Right, cell phone!” he checked the phone, waiting for the screen to light up, but for a few seconds the screen was still dark - a sign that the battery had run out. “Sorry, looks like I forgot to charge it last night.” 

“Eijun!” 

“Ack, I'm sorry! I'm really sorry!” 

Ignoring the commotion next to them, the black-haired boy who was with Daichi earlier was chatting with his new friend.  

“Kenma, where have you been? And why didn't you answer my call?” Oh, so that kid was named Kenma. Eijun was too busy talking to him to forget they hadn't been introduced yet. Kenma seemed to check his bag, rummaging through the contents before blinking. “I think, I left it at grandma's house.” 

“Are you serious? You? One Kozume Kenma, leaving a cell phone at his grandmother's house?” Kenma casually shrugged, not bothering with his friend's exaggeration ... “We just have to go back there again.” 

The black-haired boy pressed his temples. “Then we must hurry, it's getting late.” 

While still watching them, Daichi pulled him along, casually introducing him. “This is Sawamura Eijun, the younger cousin I mentioned before. And it looks like he and Kenma were together earlier.” 

“Ah, right. Where have you guys met?” 

Wait, if Kenma said they met on the way to look for a toilet - actually he was the one looking for it - Daichi would know he was lost again. No, that can't happen!!! 

With all the strength he could muster, Eijun looked at Kenma expectantly, hoping to get his thoughts across.

Kenma reluctantly replied, “I ... met him in the restroom, we accidentally bumped into each other earlier.” 

Hearing that, Daichi squinted. “Really, Ei? You didn't fall, did you?” 

“Uh ... yes-yes. I didn't fall, just bumped into him a little.” He didn't know if he was flustered because he didn't expect Kenma to understand his thoughts or alarmed that the excuse he made backfired on him. You see, lately Daichi has been more protective to him after his injury. 

“I hope you're not lying, Ei.” Thankfully at least Daichi didn't really ask for more explanation. 

“Since you seem to have gotten to know Kenma, I'm the only one who hasn't. So, hi, I'm Kuroo Tetsuro, the Captain of the Nekoma school and the rival of your cousin's brother's school.” His grin reminded Eijun of someone. His eyes squinted before accepting the outstretched hand, “Hello too, Kuroo-san, I'm Sawamura Eijun. And I'm currently attending Seido!” 

“Seido?!” Both of them asked curiously. Who doesn't know Seido? Especially those who live in Tokyo. 

“What's your position?” asked Kenma suddenly. Kuroo looked surprised to hear Kenma was curious about something. 

“I'm a pitcher!” 

“Ace?” 

“Not yet! But I'll definitely be an ace in the future. You guys just wait.” Eijun puffed out his chest, both hands on his waist, laughing loudly. Perhaps all he wanted to know had been said, Kenma just gave a small nod, accepting Eijun's proclamation. 

Kuroo whispered to Daichi, “Your little cousin seems ... unique. I don't mean that in a bad way. He can get Kenma to be like this, well ... you understand, right?”

 “Yes, I understand. Eijun does have a charisma that can attract people. And in return if you get his attention, just accept it because he won't give up on you,” Daichi's chuckle gave Kuroo a little chill. 'And it looks like you're one of them.' he thought. 

“Too bad he's in Seido and a baseball player. If he could have gone to the same school as you or if he was a volleyball player. Maybe it would have been fun to see him on the field.” 

If he was honest, Daichi regretted it too. But he understood Eijun, as baseball used to be a part of his life before switching to volleyball.

“Yeah, I kind of agree with you,” he smiled. They were watching Eijun and Kenma who were busy talking about manga this time. Obviously Eijun when he found out that his new friend also liked reading manga, his smile was endlessly flashing. Although Kenma said he didn't read much and preferred games, but still a manga reader friend was very valuable to him. Eijun nervously asked for Kenma's number which was no longer surprising to be received by him. 

Eijun practically floated into space, looking at the new contacts on his phone. He had envisioned them talking about a popular new manga or Kenma giving him some gaming tips. Gosh, he couldn't wait! 

“Bye, Eijun. I hope we can meet again.” Kenma waved which was obviously returned with an enthusiastic wave from Eijun.

“Me too, see you again, Kenma! I'll look forward to that day!!!” The group watched the two walk away, then soon they too were preparing to return to Nagano.

Today was a day he never expected to be so ... interesting. At first, he felt hesitant to go to Tokyo, afraid of bumping into one of his friends or even his school rivals. But as it turned out, not only did he have fun spending time with his precious ones, he also made an unexpected new friend. 

Eijun stopped his stride, glancing again at the mobile phone, precisely the new contact on his mobile phone, there was a small smile on the face. 

Witnessing firsthand the interaction of the two school rivals, in truth, caused a slight envious feeling in his heart. To Eijun, Daichi seemed to be having fun, even off the field their friendship remained. And he yearned for a relationship like that. A relationship of equals regardless of individual differences or flaws. But who knows. Eijun himself still hadn't realised what was really bothering him. And he would just have to wait until he realised it himself.

The gentle breeze played with his hair. Eijun was still standing there contemplating. Well, how about we change the mood for a moment? Making new friends like Kenma really helped him. 

"Dai-nii." Daichi stopped his steps, turning around, both of them now lagging behind the group, but Eijun didn't seem to mind. Behind them, the sky was now a golden orange colour. Which was comparable to Eijun's golden eyes at this moment. From within Daichi's black eyes, those smouldering eyes full of life reflected, locking him in eternal fervour. It was Eijun's gaze that Daichi recognized so well. A look full of determination, as if he had decided something. 

“Yes?” 

“Can I ...  go to Karasuno with you?”

- To Be Continued -

Chapter Text

Chapter 2:

Karasuno Trip I: This world always give me love and fear

 4th July - 5th July

(Wed - Fri)

The door in room 5 quietly closed, Kuramochi who had just taken a shower dried his hair, walking towards the desk. He quickly checked his messages before snarling in annoyance, putting his phone down again. “That Bakamura. His habit of not reading messages still hasn't changed.” 

“Sawamura hasn't replied again?” Kuramochi turned around, at the study table, Masuko-senpai glanced over. The pudding container had piled up a lot on its side.

“Yes, it has been three days since he replied. Even though I've been kind enough to ask about his condition. Just watch out, after he returns and has recovered I'll give him the new moves I learned yesterday. Kyahaha.” creepy laughter accompanied by arm-bending movements, Masuko felt sorry for Sawamura's fate later. 

“Well, but I didn't expect it either.“ Masuko chuckled suddenly making Kuramochi turn his head. 

“Didn't expect what?” He moved to sit at his desk, placing a towel on his shoulders. “I had no idea you guys weren't biological siblings. Don't you realize the similarities between you two?” Masuko was not one for teasing, but seeing Kuramochi's flushed face and hearing him stammer out an answer was quite amusing. 

“Senpai! Me? With that Bakamura? No, we don't look alike at all!” Kuramochi waved his hands. Just thinking of such an idea had never been in his dreams. 

“Hm, is that so?” Kuramochi nodded quickly. “Yes.” What's with Masuko-senpai today? The way he's talking now ... is it because he's been interacting with Ryo-san for too long? 

“Well, but you do care about him, right? I won't tease you, so just be honest. Because to me Sawamura is similar to my little brother at home.” That fact was new to him, it was only fitting that sometimes Masuko seemed soft with that Bakamura. 

Kuramochi looked thoughtful, if being honest, “Hm, well ... I'm the youngest child, there's only an older sister and Grandpa that I have. So Sawamura's arrival ... quite... makes my life a little interesting.” He would never tell the truth even to himself that from the beginning he had thought of Eijun as his younger brother. A troublesome little brother who always had to be watched over. He wasn't really complaining, though. 

The screen on his phone suddenly lit up, Kuramochi glanced over and whether he realized it or not the corners of his mouth turned up slightly. Masuko who noticed it just gave a small grin without saying anything. 

“Kyahahaha, this brat.” Occasionally Masuko could hear a small scolding or laughter from his roommate. After a short period of time he asked Eijun how he was and Kuramochi explained with a look of annoyance but also a hint of longing in his eyes. “--so he said he won't be back anytime soon! That brat ... wait Masuko-senpai, why is your phone screen on ...?” he pointed out suddenly.

From his expression that remained calm, Masuko seemed to have anticipated that reaction. “Hm, looks like we got caught ... Ryo?” Hearing that name, Kuramochi's eyes instantly widened. “Ryo... What does Masuko-senpai mean-” At the table, next to the pile of pudding containers, Kuramochi stared at his senpai's cell phone screen that seemed to be lit up. Indeed. No doubt, it was the name that gave him the creeps.

Realization dawned on him. “Masuko-senpai ... how could you?” Of all the people, Masuko-senpai was the one who was the closest to him. So it pained him when he was framed by the senpai he trusted the most. 

“I'm sorry, Kuramochi ... I had to win a bet with him.” Masuko's expression was genuinely guilty. If it wasn't a bet over pudding he wouldn't have done this. 

“Then what about your little brother is also a lie?” Masuko just smiled in response, giving a small nod. “But I really do think of Sawamura-chan as a younger brother. For that one you can rest easy.” Did that statement help with his current situation?  Kuramochi wanted to scream those damn words.

“Ho~, so that's actually how you feel, Mochi? I suspected it but I really didn't expect you to have those feelings.” the voice broke his train of thought. He forgot there was a bigger problem. The demon now found out his innermost feelings. 

“No! It's not like that Ryo-san! I just-!” 

“Hm~ Are you sure? Do you want me to remind you? Haruichi." Wait a minute, there's Haruichi too?

“I'm sorry Kuramochi-senpai. I can't refuse, aniki.”

“Just turn it quickly, Haruichi.” After saying that, there was a recorded voice from the other side. With slow steps Kuramochi approached, he strained his ears, preparing for what he would hear. 

Kuramochi's eyes widened for the umpteenth time. “Ryo-san!!! You-you're recording it?!” 

“Just in case,” replied the other side casually. 

“What do you mean just in case?!” Kuramochi ruffled his hair, feeling frustrated. He desperately wanted to go to where Ryosuke was at the moment, take his (or Haruichi's) cell phone by force, and throw it away as far as possible. But it was all a fantasy, there was no way he could win against the cruelest demon in Seido. 

That night there was a gloomy aura from room 5. Kuramochi had desperately asked Ryosuke to delete it, but as usual Ryosuke stubbornly refused. He had proposed an idea to Kuramochi if he wanted the recording deleted but Kuramochi had immediately rejected it, asking for something else. 

Realizing that Kuramochi wasn't going to give up anytime soon, Masuko had slipped out, carrying a new pudding while he left his cell phone with Kuramochi. 

And on the abandoned table, Kuramochi's cell phone screen lit up several times, a sign that a new message had come in. The name of the sender was the name that got him into the current trouble. 

 

Mochi-senpai! Why aren't you replying ...?

Hm, maybe you're doing night practice. Alright, I'll stop bothering you then. 

... 

Eum, but senpai ... there's one more thing I want to say. I ... would like to send my regards to Chris-senpai and everyone. And especially to you ... (I'm serious this time, okay! Listen to me.) This Sawamura Eijun is really thankful that you're worried about me and always willing to listen to this small human. If it weren't for you, I might have a hard time adapting to a harsh environment like Seido.

Anyway, I'll see you soon Mochi-senpai! Don't misunderstand the message above, okay! I just feel grateful to meet friends like you guys. 

So senpai, you need to be on your guard because I'm going to return to Seido and become a stronger player later. 

Just you wait!

Bye!

Bwahahaha!

A few hours ago. 

After his words that afternoon, Eijun was now sitting in the seiza position, facing all of his family in the living room. He gulped, cold sweat pouring out under the predatory, curious gazes before him.

“So, Eijun. What do you mean you want to go to Karasuno with me?” Daichi was the first to break the silence. He sat down beside him, his eyes investigating, searching for the truth of the nonsense Eijun had said earlier. “As I said ... can I come with you? Dai-nii will be back tomorrow, right? I want to meet Daina aunt too.” 

Eijun did not dare to look at anyone, he lowered his head, staring at his hands under the table. “I know that, what I mean is why? Why all of a sudden? Then what about your school?” 

Eijun honestly hadn't thought of the latter. As for the reason why he wanted to go to Karasuno, it was simple. He just wanted to go there, what other reason was needed? But obviously he couldn't say that, otherwise Daichi would kill him later. "Eum ... because I wanted to change the mood or atmosphere? Well something like that." 

“Huh?”

“I mean since I'm still in recovery I wanted to make a change, then ... then I wanted to meet Daichi's friends. Plus I can meet Daina's aunt too. As for school, I can extend my sick leave. Since I have exams already so these times are a tad more free,” Eijun rambled on, trying to say whatever he could to convince them. Oh my god. Why didn't he prepare an excuse first before asking Daichi earlier that afternoon? What a mouthful of trouble! 

“Eijun, you do know that means you skipped school, right?” Eiichi, who had been silent, gave a disappointed look. 

“Rascal! I never taught you to ditch school!” Eitoku smacked him on the back - rather gently - the crease on his forehead also deepened. 

Now that only his mother remained silent, Eijun mustered the courage to look at her and in that instant his heart sank. Her mother smiled sadly with teary eyes. “Ei, I never thought you would ever lie.” 

The living room was silent again for a moment, the ticking of the clock filling the gaps, Eijun looked up, steeling his heart to answer, “Mom, I'm wasn't going to lie. It's true that I was told to rest for about a week or so from baseball but as for school ... well, I should still be able to do my daily activities. But trust me, mom. I need a change of pace and right now I'm ... not yet ... ready to go back to Seido ...” at the end of his sentence his voice was getting smaller and the four of them needed to sharpen their hearing to hear him.  

They could more or less guess what Eijun meant, seeing his slightly downcast look added to their conviction. What happened in Seido? Was the decision to let him attend the school wrong from the start? 

Emi's eyes growing teary, she pulled Eijun's hand, clasping it. Her little baby must be having a hard time there. 

“If-if it's about the lessons, I can ask my friend, Kanemaru, for his notes, since he likes to help me with extra studying. And as for the grades this time, I'm sure they'll be good! Or at least it won't be below average, because again thanks to Kanemaru's strict teaching, I can answer questions confidently.” The corners of Eijun's mouth raised slightly, making the hearts of the four warm up a little. 

“Kanemaru, although sometimes harsh, is a caring and attentive child. We secretly call him Mamaru or mama maru, because of his attitude.” a small laugh escaped Eijun's mouth. At least they didn't regret giving Eijun to Seido, because his friends sounded nice and Eijun also seemed happy. 

Emi tightened her hand again, bringing Eijun's attention to her. “Are you sure your test scores will be good, Ei?” Her eyebrows raised, asking Eijun to answer honestly. 

“Ma-maybe? I don't know how it will turn out but I've been studying hard! You can ask Kanemaru.” 

“That won't change your exam results, brat.” 

“Bu-but, besides results, effort also needs to be taken into account, right?!” Eijun looked at his grandfather with a frown. 

“Why are you looking at me, like that, huh?” He hit his back again. “Aw, that hurts Jii-san!” 

“Punishment for being rude.” Eitoku ignored Eijun's whining.

“Well, you're not wrong Ei. Besides results, effort also needs to be taken into account. Because rather than achieving instant results, earnest effort is better.” Eiichi ruffled his hair lightly.

“Yes, I agree,” next to him Daichi also nodded. 

Eijun beamed at the two then he turned to Emi who still hadn't spoken. “Hm, alright. How about this. Mom will allow you to come with Dai-chan and tell Rei-san that you'll take a longer leave to focus on healing here. But in exchange if you have any red marks in your exams, you promise to study harder and in the next exam your marks should be all above 60. How's that?” 

Eijun's eyes lit up hearing that - he hadn't thought about having to study desperately so that his grades would be above 60 - because he was sure that this time his exam results would not be red.

“Yes, Okaa-san. This Sawamura Eijun promises to work hard and make Okaa-san proud! Even though I'm pretty sure I'll pass!” Eijun puffed out his chest confidently, but before he could get cocky Eitoku gave him a warning blow. “Don't be so confident, boy. You weren't taught to be cocky!” 

Emi just chuckled at the two before asking for Eiichi and Daichi's approval who were still silent. “Yes, I agree. As long as Eijun can hold and accept the decision he has made. I'll allow it.” 

Emi then looked at Daichi, asking for his opinion. After all, Daichi was the one who would be taking Eijun so the final decision was up to him. “Ei, can you promise not to get into trouble and not push yourself? Because like I said my friends are a little ... excited.” Daichi had clearly imagined what it would be like if Eijun met those friends of his especially, again, Hinata and Tanaka. Imagining Hinata's energetic voice with Tanaka's menacing behavior ....  Hahh~ It feels like Daichi's head hurts already. 

“Ah, them. Take it easy Dai-nii, this Sawamura Eijun will be nice and certainly won't look for trouble with Dai-nii's friends. Unless ... if they go first ...!” He said with his voice getting smaller.

“Hm, what did you just say?” 

“No, nothing!” Daichi's eyes narrowed, looking at Eijun intently. He hoped what he heard earlier was just his imagination. 

“One more thing, make sure you really thank Kanemaru for helping you so much. Also, you should treat him well, because meeting a friend like him isn't easy.” Out of the corner of his eye, Eijun caught a hint of sadness in Daichi's look. Alas despite his curiosity he felt it was inappropriate to ask about Daichi's problems, so he gave his best smile to cheer things up. 

“Take it easy Dai-nii. I always tell him how lucky I am to have a friend like him. Kanemaru himself got tired of me because of that Hahaha.” He laughed heartily realizing that his actions at that time made Kanemaru unable to refute.

“Alright since everyone has agreed, it's time for dinner. Eijun you help tidy up the plates, as for Dai-chan ....” 

That night the five of them ate with a warm atmosphere, Eijun as the youngest child was of course the one being teased by the four. It's true that watching the various expressions that start from huffing and puffing, to suddenly laughing widely, and ending with yelling in agony is an interesting and exciting sight. No wonder anyone who knew Eijun would occasionally tease or annoy him.

That's why ... Daichi was reminded again to request, to remind them - his friends - not to tease Eijun too much. 

Oho~ If they didn't listen - Eijun glanced at him, surprised to suddenly see a lopsided smile on his face - Daichi was ready with several punishment scenarios in his head. 

They could look forward to that.

"Huft ..."

In reality, he had explained very clearly word by word to his friends not to trouble Eijun too much. Because today his little cousin was coming to watch. However, he forgot one of the most important things regarding his teammates' customary behavior. They-though not all of them-needed to be warned many, many, many times, with threats in tow. Otherwise everything he said would just pass by ear to ear. 

And in the two years he had been at Karasuno he should have known, he had to be the one who knew best and could anticipate it. Because he was their captain now. 

“DA-DAI-NII!!! Save me!!!”

And for the umpteenth time, he heaved a soft sigh. He massaged his temples gently to lower the blood pressure that had risen. Anyone who was nearby could see the thick veins appearing on his forehead plus his tightly clenched fists.

Daichi took one last breath ...

“Tanaka Ryuunosuke, Nishinoya Yu, Hinata Shoyo, and Kageyama Tobio!!!” his voice roared in the gymnasium, the names called out straightened up, turned their heads, gulped. 

“You too Tsukishima Kei!” Tsukishima who was laughing behind them fell silent. 

“The five of you run on a five-no, ten lap course! And the ones who don't finish I'll add later when you get home!” He clapped his hands, “If you don't want to, you better run!” 

All of them - certainly except Tsukishima - rushed out-leaving Eijun who could finally breathe a sigh of relief. 

- 🃁 -

Yesterday after Eijun was able to jog a little, they spent the morning under the dew and the refreshingly crisp air. This peaceful morning was starting to become a routine for Daichi. And thanks to Eijun, it seemed that when he returned to Miyagi, he would start doing this every day.

Now in both of their hands were the belongings to take to Miyagi. Both of them would take the morning train so that they could get enough rest the next day. After greetings-with lots of hugs and kisses-the two waved goodbye to Emi, Eiichi, Eitoku, as well as Wakana, Nobu, and all of Eijun's friends. 

They thought it was better for Eijun to go back to Seido from Miyagi than to go back to Nagano and then go to Seido, which made sense. 

During the two hour ride, their time was filled with Eijun's stories of his time in Seido (again), but this time or rather after that nightmare, for a split second Daichi could see a hint of grief in his eyes, before it disappeared. Daichi didn't know if he was overreacting or if Eijun was good at hiding it. 

“What's wrong?” Eijun raised an eyebrow, puzzled. Not getting a response right away from his partner bothered him a little.

Daichi just sighed, ruffling Eijun's hair playfully. “It's nothing.”

“Ei-chan!!!” 

“Aunt Daina!!!” Daichi momentarily covered both ears, chuckled, watching the two suns hugging each other tightly. Daina nuzzled against his cheek then kissed Eijun's cheek fondly before ruffling Eijun's increasingly messy hair, “Aun-aunty, enough!” Eijun struggled to break free from Daina's embrace.

“Aww! My little baby is now a big boy?!” she once again tightened the hug. This time Eijun returned it with the same enthusiasm before the two laughed together. 

“How are you? Are you eating well? Do you have any friends at school? Ah, our Ei-chan must have a lot of friends. In that case, does anyone bother you at school-?!” 

“There's none Aunty!” the answer was too quick and harsh compared to what he expected. Eijun immediately covered his mouth, caressing the back of his neck, ashamed. “Eum, I mean no one bothers me Auntie. And yes, I have many friends also, I eat well too. One thing for sure is that I'm looking forward to being able to play baseball again soon.” he tried to reassure the three with a smile but Daichi kept glaring at him, not buying it. 

Thankfully Aunt Daina and Uncle Kei-Daichi's father-didn't ask many questions. Both of them preferred to give Eijun and Daichi an extended welcome. With Kei taking turns hugging and exchanging banter with Eijun.

“Hm, Dai-chan did you forget something?” Daina suddenly approached, Daichi's attention that had been on Eijun now shifted to his mother. “Forgot what, mom?” his head tilted.

“Are you sure you don't remember? Hm?” The aura around his mother hinted at annoyance, Daichi knew it all too well and he hurriedly recalled what had made his mother so pissed off. The last time he had a conversation with his mother was when she told him Eijun was hospitalized ... 

'I'm dead.'

“Hm, you seem to have remembered?” Daina drew closer, both hands on his shoulders, grasping tightly. Eijun and Kei just watched behind in horror. 'May you be at peace in the beyond, Dai-nii,' Eijun put two hands together, praying sincerely.

“Why are you so damn quiet? Do you want me to explain what you did wrong? Hm?”

“Eum ... mom, I didn't mean-”

“Yes, you probably didn't mean to. But did mom ever teach you to interrupt other people, let alone your parents?” the grip on his shoulders tightened, Daichi let out a small cry. Only in this case did he believe that his mother was really Eitoku's daughter. The strength of their grip or punch was truly terrifying. 

“I'm sorry, mom. I panicked at the time.” 

“As panicked as you are, you still have to listen to others finish talking, you brat.” And yes, Daichi felt a hard punch on the back, a specialty of the Sawamura family before receiving many pinches on the cheek, cuddle, and kisses. The truth was that Daichi dreaded this last one more, he was fine with being hit or nagged but not with that kiss! Daichi was very mortified to receive it. “Mom, that's enough-” 

“Will you just shut up and take it or will Mommy add more?” Obviously, between the two options - dying from being kissed or dying from being kissed with another addition - he preferred the former. There would be no telling what she would do to him again if he chose the latter. 

“Ei-” Then his only savior right now remained Eijun. He put on a pleading expression with all his might, but Eijun just shook his head, putting his hands together as if in prayer, feeling sorry for not being able to help. 'I'm sorry, Dai-nii.' his mouth seemed to utter those words.

Great. His only savior couldn't help and in the midst of the chaos, Kei - his own father - preferred to leave them alone, giving a smile before carrying the luggage and asking Eijun to enter first. From inside shortly he cooed, “Honey, I prepared the food.” 

“Okay, dear!” Daichi could not help but smile as he resigned himself to his current fate. 

After going through that gutsy welcome, they could finally eat together, and after more than an hour in Daichi's room, both of them had unpacked their things. Then right now Daichi closed his cell phone, putting on his shoes in front of the door. “Ei, I gotta go to school first. Tomorrow I'll introduce you to them before practice.” Not hearing an answer, Daichi turned his head. Eijun had somehow joined him in putting on shoes, standing in front of him, he took in his appearance from top to bottom, shaking his head. This kid is really impatient, he mused. 

“You want to jogging again?” 

Eijun nodded. “You wouldn't go overboard, would you?” He just smiled, nodding in response.

“Ei.” 

“Hehe, alright Dai-nii. I'm just looking around here.” He put up his hands in surrender and showed the maps on his phone screen. “I won't get lost either so you don't have to worry.” 

“Hm, fine. Then be careful.” Daichi ruffled Eijun's hair before they parted ways halfway. 

The cool breeze blew softly, the leaves on the trees swaying in rhythm. Every step of the way, his steps carried him under the clouds that shaded him. All he needed to get rid of this slight feeling of overexcitement and uneasiness was indeed simply to jog. “I feel alive.” he muttered softly, the corners of his mouth turned up a little.

The neighborhoods here were fairly quiet-not as quiet as Nagano and not as crowded as Tokyo city-but it seemed like it would be quite comfortable to live here. And if he does stay here ... will he be able to be with Daichi for longer?

Right at the turn ahead, he picked up the tempo a bit, his breathing starting to get rougher. A trickle of sweat fell behind him.

However, the thought of leaving Seido, especially this quickly, was unimaginable to him. 

Eijun suddenly felt the hard ground beneath him began to soften, turning to resemble deep mud as his feet were slowly forced to pull. Wanting to drag him in.

One step. 

But with all his might he straightened his back, trying to regain his footing. At the same time the voices cruelly whispered back to him.

Isn't that a good idea? 

What? A good idea to leave Seido? Yes, obviously.

Eijun snorted.

Why did I need to leave Seido in the first place? Are you seriously asking? Of course because you're weak. Someone who is unworthy.

Another step.

I swore that I would be their Ace! Bullshit! Who said you were needed by them?

The soft wind turned rough. His breathing grew agitated.

Chris-senpai said the others were waiting for me. Then they really need me! And you know it's all a lie. There's no way they'd trust a noisy kid like you! 

The vision in his eyes grew blurry. Against his will, his legs began to weaken. 

But ...

Another step for the umpteenth time. 

He couldn't stop. Not now. Not anytime soon.

The corner of his vision was getting smaller, his heartbeat beating frantically. A small fume with a throbbing head filled his senses. 

Snap out of it Sawamura Eijun!

Suddenly a sharp turn was ahead, as he opened his eyes wide, his steps widened, making his body sway slightly. For a split second with the remaining resolve he sent power to his legs, his eyes then automatically closed again - because deep down he was kind of expecting his foot to misstep. 

Hah ... hah ... Hah ...

Some time passed, there was no pain that he imagined.

He took a peek, unsurprisingly managing to land safely. Feeling all his adrenaline disappear, his body immediately hunched over, both hands holding his knees, panting. “Snap out of it! Snap out of it Sawamura Eijun ...! Come to your senses ....”

The tightness in his chest grew more and more suffocating, he gripped his shirt roughly, trying to calm himself down. One ... inhale ... two ... exhale ... one ... inhale ... two ... exhale ....

“Hah ... hah ,,,.” The throbbing in the head and his heartbeat slowly but surely began to stabilize.

“... ha. Haha ...! Hahaha ...!” Both hands covered his face. How annoying! Wanting to ease up his mind, he had gone to this place to change the atmosphere, to rest for a while, but instead that shadow kept chasing him all the way to this place? Trying to swallow him? 

Hahaha. Insane. He might totally go insane. That's for sure.

After taking a few more breaths and feeling like he had stabilized, he momentarily checked his phone. Without realizing it, he had been running for an hour and the good news was that so far he hadn't gotten lost despite being unfocused earlier. 

Eijun resumed walking - he had stopped jogging, not wanting to worsen his condition with fatigue - this time trying to enjoy his surroundings.

Passing the same convenience store - he guessed - he decided to stop by for a moment to buy some water, luckily he had some money in his pocket. “Thank you for stopping by. Please come later.” the cashier's voice could be heard while he was still choosing a drink, his hand grabbed a bottle of isotonic water and moved to the cashier. 

Instantly Eijun's eyes widened somewhat, he looked at the blond person in front of him. 'So tall. Are the people here this tall? Even in Tokyo, I rarely meet people this tall like him.' He joined the line behind the person, taking a step forward when it was the blonde boy's turn to pay. 

“Thank you for stopping by. Please come later.” In the corner of his eye, he eyed the blond-haired boy who walked out.

“Is this all?” Eijun nodded, placing the bottle down for payment until suddenly his eyes found something.  

“Okay, I received the money. Here's the item, thank you-” 

“Ah, thank you! Excuse me for leaving first.” the cashier gave him a surprised look before he went back to serving other customers. 

“Hey, wait!” Thankfully the blond boy hadn't gotten too far from the convenience store. His blonde hair really helped to find him. Hearing someone call out to him, he reluctantly (was it just his feelings?) turned to him. 'Oh gosh! Being this close he sure is tall! And what's with that deadpan look?!' Eijun muttered a bit offended. 

“You called me?” His eyebrows shot up one side, as if asking him to mind his business quickly. Eijun stopped in front of the boy, took as many breaths as he could (patience, let's not get into trouble), then presented something in his hand. “This ... looks like your keychain fell off.” 

Seeing the dinosaurs-shaped keychain swaying in front of him, the blond boy reflexively checked his pants pockets, shirt pockets, and jacket pockets, then exhaled tiredly not finding it anywhere. 

“Tch, how careless.” he snorted. Eijun knew he was annoyed with himself (definitely not at him, right?) but why was he the one feeling offended? The boy quickly snatched the keychain from Eijun. 

“Thanks.” The boy bowed slightly (at least he still had manners), hurriedly turned around, from the corner of his eye Eijun could see the reddened tips of his ears. 

“Uh, hey! Wait a minute!” he called a little louder than he expected. And even from behind Eijun could still see the frown on his face due to his voice. “What now?”

He didn't care that even though the expression on his face told him to get lost, the corners of Eijun's mouth were already fully extended, his enthusiasm obvious. And the person in front of him knew this might be troublesome. It looked like one of them needed to give in, but it was definitely not Eijun. His index finger pointed at the dinosaurs keychain he had given out earlier. “That ... do you like that dinosaurs too?”

On the downhill road his legs were a little tired from running straight from school. The orange-haired boy hurriedly turned towards the nearest convenience store when he found the boy he was looking for. “Tsukki! What took you so long-” His waving stopped.

Ah, Tsukki wasn't alone. There was a brown-haired boy who was talking to him. The two of them seemed to be engrossed in conversation before turning their heads, then the brown-haired boy momentarily glanced at the cell phone then spoke something to Tsukishima again before bowing, seemingly saying greetings. 

The boy bowed to him as well, smiling - which he hurriedly returned - before jogging away. “Tsukki, who is he? Your acquaintance?” He glanced at Tsukishima who didn't answer his question and instead forced him to carry a bag of buns that were starting to become cold. “No. I don't know ... and I don't care either,” he mumbled. 

Even though Tsukishima said that, it was obvious that he saw the corners of his mouth lift up on his face (that means a smile, right?) when the two of them were talking. Oh my. Wait a minute! He just realized, 'A smiling Tsukishima?! Is there going to be a disaster tomorrow?' He watched the Tsukishima walking in front of him again. 

“Hurry up Hinata. I don't want to get scolded by Suga-senpai later.” that remark immediately stopped him from asking further questions while trying to tease him. 

He would tell the others later, they all wouldn't believe it.

And for that boy?

Well, it doesn't matter. If he was lucky maybe he could meet him again later. 

- 🃁 -

“How was jogging yesterday?” Daichi suddenly asked making him choke. 

“Ei-chan! Daichi, don't startle her while eating.” On this sunny morning Daichi had received a warm spanking from his mother. This was indeed Daichi's fault. Yeah right. 

“I'm fine Auntie,” he smiled a little as he received the wipe from her.

“Eat carefully dear. How was it? Is the food good?” Of course it was good! This morning's meal was definitely his favorite, curry! Obviously he would love it. “Aunt Daina's cooking is the second best second only to Mom's!” 

Daina chuckled, stroking Eijun's head fondly. “Hoh~ it's hard to compare to Emi-chan. Her meals are top-notch! That's why your father fell in love with her.” Daina laughed, recalling the time when Eiichi couldn't stop talking about the woman who gave him his lunch on the phone. Ah, how quickly time passed. 

“Oh, there's a story like that?” Eijun's eyes lit up. Daina was getting more and more excited.

“Of course there is. We'll talk some more after this, so hurry up and finish your meal.” With the vigor of a new morning and the curiosity of Daina's story, true to her word Eijun quickly finished the three bowls of rice with ease. 

“Did you eat that much in Seido?” 

“Yes, we need to replenish our energy so we can train longer.” 

Seeing Eijun receive a new bowl from his mother made Daichi sick. Did he have to eat that much to become a great player? 

“Come on, Dai-nii, hurry up. I can't wait to see your school.” The bowl that had just been handed over a second ago was now clean without a single grain of rice. Eijun chugged the water down, clasped his hands together in prayer, before urging Daichi to eat quickly. 

“Hold on. I'll finish it first.” 

Seeing the two getting along warmed both of their hearts. Diana and Kei must have heard from Emi why Eijun was here. And of course they would with all their strength help and support Eijun who knows what he is facing alone right now.

“Dai-nii! Just five more grains of rice left. Come on, be strong!” 

“I can't do it anymore Ei-!” 

“Chew what's in your mouth first and then speak. There's only five grains left anyway, Dai-nii! You can do it!” Eijun was busy trying to move Daichi's mouth who couldn't chew anymore, while Daichi's face was pale, trying his best not to vomit. It seemed like Eijun was secretly increasing Daichi's rice portion.  

“Ugh-”

“Dai-nii!” 

“Dai-chan.” 

Yield. Daichi finally chose to give up and spit out all the contents of his stomach with the help of a pat from Eijun. 

“Ugh! No more eating with you, Ei,” he muttered in resentment. 

“Why? Yes, it was wrong of me to force you, but it was for the sake of you becoming a great volleyball player! Even I still sometimes can't eat three bowls of rice back in Seido!” Daichi glanced at Eijun who huffed, his eyebrows raised. Not able? The kid who ate four bowls of rice earlier said he still can't eat sometimes? 

“You must be joking.” 

“No, I'm telling the truth.”

And from there the two continued to argue. From before saying goodbye to Daina and Kei, putting on their shoes, on the road to Karasuno, even after grabbing Eijun who almost fell down, they argued again. This time the topic changed to how careless Sawamura Eijun was which was clearly refuted by his own person. 

“You wait here for a minute. I want to change first.” And only now did their arguing stop, replaced by him being left alone at his cousin brother's school. The school was still empty, it was six o'clock, and in Seido it was around this time that the children were waking up and getting ready. 

So he wasn't really expecting to see anyone else when he heard the loud squeak of shoes followed suit. Looking in the direction Daichi had disappeared to find no sign of him, Eijun moved closer to the source of the sound - fulfilling his curiosity and killing his boredom. 

And yeah. Whatever he had expected earlier shouldn't have taken him by surprise like it did this time. 

Because oh my! What the hell is this?!

So he didn't really expect to meet anyone else when he heard the loud squeak of shoes following him. Looking in the direction Daichi had disappeared to find no sign of him, Eijun moved closer to the source of the sound-fulfilling his curiosity and chasing away his boredom. 

And yeah. Whatever he had expected earlier shouldn't have taken him by surprise like it did this time. 

Because oh my! What the hell is this?!

In the middle of the field, the two unknown children were doing the same movements over and over again, but even Eijun was still marveled yet again.

The orange-haired boy, one of the two, slowly took a step back, preparing, his eyes fixed on the ball, before running with all his might. Right in front of the net he stopped, his legs tightened and then like a spring, he jumped with all his might, swung his arms, and ... 

BAM! 

The ball rolled across the court. The orange-haired boy gracefully landed lightly, Eijun had to rub his eyes because he seemed to see wings behind the boy's back.

“Did you see that, Kageyama? That was my best shot!” the loud voice of the orange-haired boy shattered the beautiful painting that Eijun had just witnessed. And it seemed that the boy named Kageyama thought the same. 

“Hinata boge! Don't yell, it's still morning. And it's a little out of line, do it again, you need to hit it just inside the court.” Hinata--whose name he had just learned-was grumbling but still listened to him anyway. On the other hand, Eijun also realized that there was a hint of pride in Kageyama's words just now, because as he had said, the scene was truly mesmerizing. Time seemed to stop, and if Eijun could paint he would paint that scene and display it in his room. 

Such a beautiful scene was rare to see anywhere. Even on a baseball field 

“Ah! You!!!” The scream once again interrupted-and saved-his wild musings. Eijun looked up, his eyes blinking, only to realize it was Hinata who was pointing at him. 

“You were the one who talked to Tsukishima yesterday!”

“Uh, Tsukishima?” 

“Yes, that blonde-haired kid! Wait a minute, what are you doing here? Going to see Tsukishima? This early?” Hinata kept asking without giving him a chance to answer and it also made Kageyama seem annoyed. 

“Can you shut up for a minute? He can't answer because you keep asking.” He pulled the collar of Hinata who was trying to lunge towards him. What was Hinata trying to lunge at him for anyway? 

“Ah, right! You'd better come in, don't stand in front of the door like that.” HInata waved - which was still pulled by the collar - making Eijun glance at Kageyama for approval which was returned with a nod from him. 

“Alright, excuse me. Sorry to interrupt!” 

“So what are you doing here, mysterious-san!” Mysterious... what?

Eijun watched as Kageyama slowly released his grip on Hinata's collar, before standing by his side. “I didn't know your name so I called you that. Oh, yes I'm Hinata Shoyo, nice to meet you!” On second thought, Daichi was right in saying that this kid did have too much energy in him. 

“Oy, you know him?” he whispered. Hinata looked at Kageyama with a reproachful gaze, seeing him made Eijun stifle a little laughter.

“Didn't you hear me earlier? I said I saw him chatting with Tsukishima which means I don't know him yet, do you understand Ba.ka.ya.ma?” With his last words Hinata deliberately emphasized word by word as if Kageyama was a child who didn't understand sentences, Eijun held back his laughter even more seeing Kageyama's red face. 

“Huh?! What did you say?!” And the two began to argue. Eijun felt dejavu seeing it.

“Hey, hey. You two stop.” After laughing contentedly at the behavior of these two people he had just met but felt like they had known for a long time, Eijun was kind enough to intervene before a voice stopped them. 

“Hey! Hey! Hinata! Kageyama! Who did you bring here, huh?! Is he a spy!!?” The gym door opened loudly, revealing two figures with sinister appearances. One was a bald-headed kid and the other was a kid with hair like ... a rooster? You know, like the crest on a rooster's ... head?

Oh my god, what's going on. Why were there so many things that amused him today? 

Eijun held back his laughter as he was being glared at by the two other boys. “Hey! Who are you kid?” The kid with hair ... of that color glared at him, raising his head as if he was beneath him. And his behavior was similar to someone he knew very well. With colored hair too. 

“Eum, I-”

“Noya-senpai! He's my friend! Don't frighten him!” Hinata hurriedly pulled Eijun behind his back. Yeah, though, since he was taller than Hinata, it was obvious that Eijun was still receiving stares from both of them. 

“Tanaka-senpai too, quite suspicious of him, he's not a spy, right?” Eijun found himself being stared at by four people - also Kageyama behind him - with a somewhat burdened feeling. 

“Uhh, yes. I'm not a spy. I'm just 'taking a short vacation' at my cousin's house right now.” Naturally, those who listened carefully to what their captain said knew who the cousin Eijun was referring to was.  Alas, among the four, they were not the type of people who were interested if it was not about volleyball or girls.

“Oh, you don't live here?” asked Hinata to which Eijun replied with a nod. 

“You said he was your friend Hinata. Why did you just find out?” Tanaka moved his body forward even more, making Hinata shrink a little. Here he goes again, acting like a thug to scare Eijun. Unfortunately Eijun had met a scarier thug than Tanaka, which thug was her roommate as well.

“So-so ... I just befriended him ... this ... day.” seeing Hinata's shrinking body made Eijun feel guilty. Eijun did not notice Kageyama behind him was about to defend Hinata because he pulled the boy's hand first, standing in front of him, facing his two senpai in turn. 

“Yes, it's true that I just met him but I already think of him as a friend. So senpai I ask you not to scare my friend, can you?” Eijun raised his gaze as if looking down on Tanaka who now had an enraged face. 

Eijun honestly felt deja vu with this whole scene. And he didn't want to experience it again but look at it now. Eijun -like the time with Azuma-senpai -once again returned the senior's words by slightly looking down at him (just a little okay, he was not as bad as when he met Azuma-senpai).

“You-you! What a rude boy-!” 

“Ahahaha! What a crazy kid. Tanaka-senpai, that kid managed to threaten you?!” The five turned around, Eijun caught the blonde-haired boy from yesterday with a slightly green-haired boy-reminding him of Kuramochi-senpai-entering the gym. 

Shortly behind them was another ash-haired boy and a slightly older boy ... uh or was he a man with a beard? Wait a minute, why are there old men in a high school? Oh, or is he the same as Jun-senpai's species?

“Hey, Tsukishima! You guys as underclassmen are just as disrespectful!” Tanaka turned toward the blonde-haired boy-who turned out to be named Tsukishima. “Oh, right. Hinata said you were talking to a stranger yesterday. Is that person that brat?” A frown creased Eijun forehead when he heard that, plus he heard Tsukishima's answer that he didn't know him.

Honestly feigning ignorance is a little hurtful, you know.

Too focused on Tsukishima's answer he didn't notice the other senpai, Nishinoya (if he wasn't mistaken) approaching. Patting his shoulder a few times. “I didn't know you were such a loyal friend. I misjudged you, I'm sorry.” Nishinoya-senpai suddenly bowed, respectfully. Eijun although still not understanding the sudden change in situation still bowed back. Because fellow honoured gentlemen should respect each other. 

"Wow, who is this? Do we have a guest?" The boy had been at Eijun's side since who knows when. Startled, he reflexively retreated, almost tumbling over with Hinata if not held back by Kageyama behind them. "Eh, are you guys okay?" 

Through his bangs, Eijun could clearly see who the boy was. The smile on his face hinted that he was a gentle boy but there was a feeling that said not to mess with him. 

"Suga senpai!"

"Hi, Hinata. Can you introduce our new guest?" Suga stroked Hinata's head before giving another smile to Eijun.

Ah, right he looked like someone. To be precise, he looked a bit like the pink-haired demon in Seido.

"O-onii san?!" Eijun immediately covered his mouth. Gosh, that smile was different from Kominato Ryosuke senpai's sweet smile, but he couldn't help calling out to him. 

"Onii-san? Who are you talking about? Me?" Eijun hurriedly shook his head, "No, no. I got the wrong person." 

"Oh? Suga-senpai is your cousin? Why didn't you say so?" Behind him, Kageyama exclaimed, for some reason he was still there, not moving an inch.

"Ah, so he's your cousin Suga?’ Nishinoya asserted which clearly didn't help at all. 

"No, it's not. I've never met a cousin like him." While the others were asking for an explanation from Suga. The person who was the subject of the conversation quietly retreated, preparing to run away. Eijun couldn't stand being interrogated anymore. God, he hoped Daichi would come quickly. Why was he taking so long?!  

"Ah! Wait, aren't you-" Before Suga could finish speaking, Tanaka with Tsukishima on his arm, interrupted, "Suga, you should at least teach your little cousin some manners. He just waltzed in here and picked a fight with me."  Tanaka came forward, pointing at Eijun. There was a smile on his face as if he had won something. 

Wow ... he didn't want to cause trouble, you know.

He had promised Daichi to be a good boy but it seemed like it was his destiny to always get into trouble. 

His footsteps stopped, a tense atmosphere could be felt throughout the room when Eijun who had been silent for a while, turned around. He slowly approached, standing in front of Tanaka with a resentful look. "Senpai, I'm not being rude but I'm just asking you to step back. Do you have a hearing problem?" 

Tsukishima who had slightly anticipated Eijun's response burst out laughing. He really couldn't believe there was a crazy kid who dared to fight a senior (well, even though he was like that too). 

"Huh?! Brat, you're increasingly being insolent, dontcha think?!"  

"I'm not insolent, senpai."

"This behaviour of yours!!! Where exactly are you from, huh? Ah, you must be from Tokyo, right? I knew Tokyo kids were all rascals!" 

"What? He's from Tokyo, Ryu?’ Nishinoya, who had been quietly watching, suddenly chimed in. 

Why else would he suddenly bring up Tokyo? And who's a rascals anyway?! 

If they're calling Tokyo kids rascals, then they're calling him one too ...

Hold on! Then they dare to call Chris-senpai a rascals!? How dare they badmouth his shisho! 

"So what if I'm from Tokyo? Senpai, you can't judge everyone the same! And don't ever equate Shisho with a rascals, because he's a greater person than that!" People could see that Eijun seemed to be more annoyed about his Shisho than he was about being called a rascals. But then again, who was Shisho? 

"Ahahaha, this kid is really amazing." Tsukishima felt like he was going to die laughing from the ridiculous show in front of him. Tanaka's hold on him had long loosened as Tanaka was busy fighting back at Eijun, what started as an argument had now turned into a tug of war.

Yamaguchi beside him tried to warn him but his laughter grew when Hinata and Kageyama, who tried to separate, were dragged along by the three of them. As a result, Eijun, Tanaka, Nishinoya, Hinata, and Kageyama were either elbowing each other, pulling hair, or pinching each other's cheeks. 

God! Everything is really messed up!

Suga and Asahi respectively held Tanaka and Nishinoya who continued to resist, while Hinata with the help of Kageyama was overwhelmed by Eijun who somehow had this much strength. 

Just as Eijun was about to break free, the corner of his eye caught sight of a very familiar figure. With a loud voice he called out a name that chilled the entire room immediately.

"DA-DAI-NII!!! Save me!!!"

Oh, Eijun. Either you did it on purpose or not, but it's really sneaky of you.

And as expected, Daichi immediately took action. He massaged his temples, took one last breath ...

"Tanaka Ryuunosuke, Nishinoya Yu, Hinata Shoyo, and Kageyama Tobio!!!’ his voice instantly boomed in the gym, the names called out straightened up, turned their heads, gulped. 

"You too Tsukishima Kei!" Tsukishima who was laughing behind them fell silent. 

“The five of you run on a five - no, ten lap course! And the ones who don't finish I'll add later when you get home!” He clapped his hands, “If you don't want to, you better run!” 

All of them - certainly except Tsukishima - rushed out-leaving Eijun who could finally breathe a sigh of relief. But only for a few moments. Eijun hadn't realised the demon also had another gift for him.

Hearing the wails of despair not far from the gym, this kind-hearted Eijun silently prayed for their forgiveness. He did have an argument with the seniors in particular, but there was no malice in his actions earlier. He just ... got a little carried away and had no other intentions. Eijun swore.

"Ei." a deep voice with no room to reply, Eijun knew full well he wouldn't get out of this alive. Quietly, with some courage, Eijun turned his head. Gone were all the confidence and courage he had earlier when arguing with Tanaka because now under that piercing gaze, his guts automatically shrank to speechlessness. 

"Ei, how many days has it been since we travelled from Nagano?" The question was beyond his expectation. Although he was surprised but he didn't dare to ask yet, so he answered casually. 

"Just two days." 

"Right, just two days. Then you remember your promise to me before I allowed you to come here?" His eyebrows raised, demanding an immediate answer. Ah, he was really going to die this time. 

" ... sorry Dai-nii-" 

"Nope. It's not that. I said what did you promise me back then?"

"Eum, that-" 

"Say it Ei. I'm sure you still remember. Don't let me tell you myself." 

Eijun nervously fiddled with the hem of his shirt, lowered his head. "I promise I won't get into trouble with your friends." 

"Hm, then?" 

"Then, I'll be a good boy and not disturb the training." 

"After that?" 

He paused, looking up, already not thinking too much about Daichi's gaze. " ... is there more?" he asked softly. Daichi didn't answer right away, instead he looked at Eijun who gave him a confused look. A minute passed and still no one started talking. 

"Eum, Dai-nii-?!" Suddenly there was a warm touch on top of his head. From underneath his increasingly messy hair Eijun peeked out, seeing Daichi who sighed. 

"At least you didn't get hurt, right?" He blinked before shaking his head lightly. 

"Are you sure?" Eijun nodded again, this time he spun around in front of Daichi, showing that he was fine. 

"Well, there might be a little pain in my cheek as well as my hair getting messier. I'm fine for the rest." Daichi who heard that jolt a little, he slowly stroked Eijun's cheek which was indeed a little red from being pinched just now. 

The screams of the sinners who had been filling the field unmistakably grew closer. The tension that overcame his body barely faded by the time Eijun realised the bustle around him, Suga senpai and his friend were working together to set up the equipment with the female managers setting up the chairs. For a moment Eijun tugged at Daichi's sleeve, pointing at the bustle around them. "Right, I forgot to say we're having a practice match today." 

‘’Er, then am I not interrupting?" 

"No, no problem. I already asked Ukai-san for permission yesterday and he said it's fine as long as you don't make a scene. Which unfortunately you broke from the start." An embarrassed smile was all Eijun could show, he put his hands together, apologising. 

"Since it already happened so be it." Daichi paused, pinching Eijun's ear lightly. "You know Ei, I've been thinking about what kind of punishment would suit you so you don't do it again." Daichi seriously thought about it, he felt he had to discipline Eijun as long as Eijun was with him. 

"Sorry, sorry. I won't do it again, Dai-nii." 

"Hahh~ you might be right but you might forget again." He gave Eijun's ear one last squeeze of strength before turning to ruffling his hair. "But I'll only let you this time, because it's busy right now. Don't forget to go rest, I'll introduce you officially to the team after practice." Finally after endless torture, Eijun was freed from the hands of the angel who sometimes became a demon. And just then the gym doors opened. The five warriors who had finished their punishment entered with bated breath. Eijun watched them from a distance, not wanting to be seen making a scene again. 

"Ahh, watch out!!!" The scream was right beside him as he turned his attention, immediately found someone lunging towards him. With his quick reflexes he was fortunately able to catch the figure. "Ouch ... ah! So-sorry, I'm genuinely sorry!" The girl hurriedly moved away, bowing repeatedly. While Eijun's hand that caught her was still in the air, his eyes blinked, trying to process. "That's not a problem. But, are you okay?" 

He came closer, intending to check on her, but his choice only made the girl more frightened. "Yes-yes. I'm fine. Thank you for helping me!" She hurriedly bent down again, causing some of the bottles in her hands to fall. "Oh, no!"

"Hey, City boy! What are you doing to our manager, huh?" Tanaka who came out of nowhere shouted. 

"City boy?"

"Don't tell me you like our manager? Never! Our managers are goddesses that cannot be touched by lowly mortals like us." Behind him he heard the girl yelp. Gosh, senpai, why bother a timid child like her?

"You should be grateful even if you only stare-"

"Tanaka! Hurry back and warm up or I'll ban you from being a starting player. What are you doing looking for trouble with my cousin anyway?" 

Tanaka turned his head quickly.

Crack.

Eijun grimaced, he could feel the pain instantly, the sound was so loud.

"A cousin? He's your cousin Daichi?"

"You didn't know? Aha! You didn't listen to me again yesterday, did you? You weren't paying attention?!" In turn, it's Daichi who scolds Tanaka now.

"That's not it Daichi- Akh!" Anyone would have a hard time holding back their laughter when looking at the scene in front of him right now.

Ah, really.

He straightened his back, ignoring Tanaka's hysterical screams and Daichi's exclamations behind. His eyes alternately watched one by one the Karasuno members who were busy on their own, the clock on the wall that was still working, and the ceiling of the roof that seemed far away yet also close. Normally his view was unlimited, the vast sky being his roof while here there was an actual roof that both covered and restricted his vision. 

Is this called being locked in a cage?

Eijun glanced back at the child in front of him. Even though he had said it was fine, the girl kept apologising while cleaning up the new mess she had just made.

Ridiculous. 

Not to the child in front of him but to this whole situation. It hasn't been a day since he's been in Karasuno but he feels like he already knows them? Starting from the kid who looked like Kuramochi-senpai (i.e. Tanaka), there was the kid with a warm smile but reminded him of Ryo-senpai (i.e. Suga), and to this kid in front of him who looked like Haruno, their manager in Seido. 

Haha. 

Fate is so cruel. It felt like wherever he went, anything related to Seido would always chase him. It was as if he was caught in that birdcage with no way to get out. As if under the sky it was more like a cage than under this roof. 

The sound of screeching shoes with the ball bouncing everywhere trailed off. Without realising it the bustling gym became even more lively and Eijun absorbed all the sounds dispelling the thoughts that haunted him.

"Hey, can I help you?" The girl glanced up. In the reflection of her eyes she caught the golden eyes of Eijun, who was smiling and holding out a hand.

Somehow the depth in those eyes worried her a little, she felt like the boy in front of her was on the edge. A slip up could be dangerous if not cared for.

"Thank you." She welcomed the hand, smiling. This time, in the reflection of her eyes, Eijun smiled back. 

With sincerity.

- To Be Continued -

Chapter Text

Chapter 3:

Karasuno Trip II: When we go past this tunnel, when we open our eyes. Our dream becomes reality 

6th July - 7th July
(Fri-Sat)

Standing in the center of the court. He imagined that in front of him lay a high net like a huge wall, disguising the opposite side of the court. Silently his eyes closed. Still vivid in his mind, the hard-hit ball, the screeching of shoes, those calls of encouragement, and that air of passion for scoring. Yesterday was truly a game that changed his worldview. And there are probably many new things he will see when he visits the training camp. 

At that time the whistle blew loudly. 

Kageyama got ready, threw the ball high before jumping, hands swung and quickly the ball traveled hard, falling in the opponent's field. First score for the Karasuno team.

"Kageyama! Nice serve!"

The match was exciting. Eijun couldn't stop cheering and encouraging Daichi and his friends. By the end of the second half, Team Karasuno was leading 17-15. 

"Left!" Asahi asked for the ball, he ran to the front of the net, accurately the ball came in front of his hand and with a powerful swing he hit it hard. Another score for Karasuno. 

"Asahi-san! Nice kill!" Hinata and Tanaka extended their hands, the three of them high-fiving each other before returning to their respective positions.  

"Eijun-kun, the score." Shimizu reminded Eijun who was dazed and hurriedly added the score. "Woah, they're so fast," he muttered. 

"Yes, a volleyball player must have good reflexes but as long as you don't drop the ball even if you make a mistake, the game will continue." Shimizu's turn to add to the opponent's score. Hearing another call Eijun refocused his attention on the court. This time it was Tsukishima's turn to serve. The ball bounced over the net.  

It was then that Eijun realized Kageyama was already in position, his eyes keenly watching. Eijun didn't know what Kageyama was waiting for but he shouldn't have been surprised anymore. 

His eyes slowly opened. Among all those memories there was one that was the most vivid and still gave him goosebumps to this day.

Out of nowhere with lightning speed, the sound of screeching shoes brought Eijun's attention. Orange hair appeared in his vision, his mouth gaped, suddenly that figure had jumped high in front of the net. Before he could process all that, Kageyama, who had been preparing, reached out, and the ball flew out of his hand with lightning speed. In the next second, the ball was on the opponent's court. Time seemed to stop, the ball rolling slowly while the offender landed gracefully, ignoring the shocked reactions of the others. 

The whistle blew, signaling the end of the match. 

"Hinata! Kageyama! Your combo is always crazy!" Eijun watched in amazement. His hands were busy adding the last point as he watched the team interactions, Tanaka ruffling HInata's hair in excitement, Suga high-fiving Kageyama, and the other members congratulating them happily. This was just a scrimmage, not a real game. But their happiness felt as if they had won the most prestigious match in the nation. 

But Eijun understood the feeling anyway. Winning a small match was sometimes more valuable than winning a prestigious match and you weren't the one playing on the field. Yup, Eijun knew that feeling all too well. 

"Shimizu-san, we won!" Yachi, who was next to him gushed, while Shimizu just smiled, nodding happily. This team, meaning the entire Karasuno team, from the players, coaches, and managers seemed to have a strong bond. Eijun approached the two, congratulating them and telling them how amazing the match had been. 

"Thank you for the match!" Both teams bowed, exchanging handshakes and laughter. 

"How was the match?" Daichi walked up to him, Eijun handed him some water which he immediately chugged down.    

"Awesome! You're all so fast like the flash." Eijun explained cheerfully, his hands flailing around to support his explanation. Hearing Eijun's proud words made Daichi blush a little. Sometimes Eijun liked to go overboard. 

"Eijun!" 

"Shoyo!" Both of them high-fived before jumping up and down excitedly. 

"How was it? How was it?" His eyes lit up, Eijun had already explained twice how he felt about the match, but if he needed to explain it once more it would be fine. He nodded. "You're so cool, Shoyo! I can actually see the wings on your back." Hinata rubbed the back of his neck, embarrassed. 

"How did you do that?" 

"Do what?" 

"Flying. How can you jump like you're flying?" Eijun's eyes lit up in turn, imagining he could jump that high, it must be fun. 

"Hm, I have no idea when I was able to jump so high but it must have been since I was a kid?" It's a talent, Eijun thought. Does that mean he won't be able to? 

"But maybe I can teach you a little? Although I'm not sure if it will work or not." Hinata pondered, looking at Eijun. Whether or not it would work was another matter, for now he was going to learn to fly! He grasped both of Hinata's hands tightly, enthusiasm radiating from his body. "No problem, the important thing is that we try it first." 

And so it was. After the two helped clear away the equipment, Hinata started stretching for a moment, as if jumping up and down before asking him to come closer. "So we need to take a stance from that end of the court," he pointed, "and then run at full speed before stopping in front of the net." Eijun nodded in understanding, he could imagine it because the image of Hinata flying was still fresh in his mind. There was no way he would ever forget it. 

Hinata continued the explanation. " Then, you're going to Kaboom! Keep running like Wushh! After that, Bam! Jump as high as you can." Hinata acted it out a little, staring expectantly. "Do you understand?" 

Eijun's mouth opened slightly. Did he understand? With an explanation like that anyone would-

"Oh my. I forgot. Sorry, my friends always say my explanations make them confused or don't make sense. Hm, I'll find some other words-"  

"Awesome!" Hinata looked up, blinking in confusion. "Your explanation is really marvelous. I can imagine it very clearly." He clapped his hands as if appreciating the most beautiful poem he'd ever heard then made a gesture as if wiping away his tears.

"You ... you got it?!" Hinata stammered, he had never met anyone who understood this side of him. Eijun nodded lightly. "Yes, that's the easiest explanation I've ever heard." he said as if it was an obvious fact. 

Somehow Hinata's eyes glazed over. "Eijun!" Without warning he jumped into his arms. "You! you are such a good friend. Not like that bakayama." 

"Huh? What did you say Hinata?" Hinata clicked his tongue, ignoring him. 

His attention returned to the boy in front of him. "Eijun." he called softly.

"Yes?" 

Shyly Hinata spoke up, "Not just a friend-" Eijun didn't quite hear Hinata's words, he leaned closer, sharpening his hearing.

"A-Am I ... allowed to think of you as a brother?! Since I don't have a brother, we also seem to have a lot of similarities, I want to be a brother to be close to you, is that okay? If not then at least being your best friend would be fine too!" that out-of-nowhere mumble made his stammer. 

"Eh?" Brother? So suddenly? What does being close have to do with being a brother?

He was so surprised that his mouth opened and closed like a fish swimming in water. As the seconds passed, Hinata became increasingly anxious as he did not get any reaction. Steeling himself he glanced at Eijun, "It can't be, right? Forget it, I'm just-" 

"Alright!" Eijun hurriedly held back Hinata's ramblings who had turned red like a boiled octopus. "In fact, if you don't mind, can I call you Shoyo, Sho or Shochan? I'm an only child, I have no siblings so adding another half-brother would be an honor for me!" Another half-brother? Hinata caught Daichi occasionally glancing at them with a smile.  

"Are you sure?" 

"Yes! As long as you don't mind yourself." Hinata had thought about it from the beginning, Eijun was like the sun. He was warm, cheerful, and full of energy. Many said he was like that too, but to him Eijun was the sun in his world. The Sun that shines onto another sun, doesn't that sound interesting? 

"What the hell are they doing?" Tsukishima asked Yamaguchi who shrugged. He didn't know either.

"But they're both so adorable, aren't they." Suga next to the two started taking pictures of the two embracing each other, laughing together. 

"Did you hear Daichi? Looks like you've got a new little brother." Suga chuckled, nudging Daichi who shook his head. "How did it come to this?" he couldn't help but smile though. 

"I sympathize with you, Daichi-senpai." said Tsukishima, Daichi raising an eyebrow. "Why?" 

"Because it would be troublesome and tiring to deal with them." He pointed at Kageyama, who was arguing with Hinata. Eijun as the third person was trying to separate them. 

"If I were you ... ah, no. I don't want to be like you Daichi-senpai." Suga laughed loudly, hitting Tsukishima on the back. Yamaguchi also stifles his laughter in the background. 

"It'll be an interesting experience for sure. Well, you have to stay strong with them, Daichi. Good luck with your two younger siblings!" Suga gave a caring smile, Daichi couldn't tell if he was sincere or just teasing.

"I will begin." Their attention returned to the field. Apparently Kageyama was helping out too. Hinata took a breath while Eijun at the side had his mobile phone ready to record the spectacular video he was about to witness. 

Hinata took a step back, eyes focused squarely on the spot. The ball in Kageyama's hand soared high, it was Hinata's favorite set.

Immediately he dashed to his feet and in an instant had cut across the court, stopping in front of the net, both hands stretched out like wings behind him. As he tightened his legs like springs, he pulled his right hand back with all his might and jumped. Ah, his guess was right. This was the scene he was referring to. Hinata did have wings. Wide wings that spread beautifully. For a moment Hinata seemed to float in the air and that convinced Eijun even more that he could indeed fly

Those few seconds that seemed like an eternity were over when the sound of the ball being hit echoed throughout the gym. Moreover, that sound, the sound of the ball bouncing sounded fascinating no matter how many times Eijun heard it. 

He stopped the video recording, rushing over to Hinata in high spirits. "You're absolutely awesome, Sho!" Eijun complimented Hinata relentlessly, making him blush. 

"What about me?" Kageyama, who had been listening, asked. 

"Of course you're great too, Kageyama-san!" Hearing that his brows furrowed. "Why do you call me san while this fool doesn't? We're the same age, you know, right?"  

"Uh ... should I call you Tobio then? Oh, or Tobi? Tobichi?" Hinata laughed at Kageyama's perplexed face.  

"Eijun, just call him bakayama. It suits him." 

"Hey!" 

"Hm, it's harder than I thought." His eyes watched Kageyama up and down, as if assessing him.

"Fine, you can just call me Tobio, then." He didn't want to bother with nicknames as long as they weren't weird.

"Okay, I'll think of another nickname, later."

"Please, no need." 

- 🃁 -

After the match, they went back to training, trying to make up for the deficiencies in the match. "One more time." 

"Haik!" 

Eijun watched the practice with a sense of amazement. As a baseball idiot, he rarely watched other sports practice. And there was only one word he could say. Thrilling! 

He didn't expect to be able to feel this kind of exhilarating feeling apart from baseball. It seemed that when he returned to Tokyo he would try to watch other sports games other than baseball. Although baseball would still be his favorite sport. 

"How's it going? Are you bored?" A teacher approached him, he smiled which was returned with a smile. "No, it's very thrilling and exciting. Other than baseball I rarely watch other sports so this experience is new to me." 

"I'm glad you enjoyed it." Takeda sensei returned to watch the practice. Ittetsu Takeda, a teacher who had no understanding and experience of volleyball (Daichi said) but was very dedicated to his club's children. Seeing his persistence, Eijun was reminded of Sano sensei who despite having no experience, for the sake of Eijun and his friend, he was willing to learn and help his small baseball club-in Akagi. People like them were precious and irreplaceable to Eijun. 

"Alright, you guys take a ten-minute break." Ukai-the head coach of Karasuno-dismissed them. Eijun walked over to Tsukishima who was sitting back, chugging water. 

"Ah, Tsukishima-san?" The one called out reluctantly turned around, raising an eyebrow. Eijun was still not used to his reproachful gaze. "It's about what I said yesterday ..." He went back to explaining with additional gestures. Tsukishima just stared at him intently.

"Ah, it's a shame he doesn't know Tsukki's nature. Even though he seems like a nice boy, I don't want him to be hurt by Tsukishima's words." Yamaguchi, Enoshita, Asahi, Suga, as well as Daichi, watched Eijun who was focused on talking about something, not noticing the frown on the other's forehead. Oh, no, it seems Tsukishima was getting annoyed. When they realized Tsukishima was about to open his mouth, Daichi reflexively approached to stop whatever he wanted to say until-

"Do you have that one?" His interested question made the five of them fall silent. One Tsukishima seemed interested and spoke without any other intentions? Was what they saw and heard not mistaken? Will the sun rise from the west tomorrow? Ah! Is the world really coming to an end!?

"Yes, want me to show you?" Eijun, who was happy, showed something on his cell phone. Tsukishima approached with ... a bright face?

"Tsukki?" Yamaguchi doubted his vision. 

"Ahaha, Daichi, it seems like your little cousin is an easy child to like. Even a Tsukishima can get carried away." 

"Well, Eijun is indeed a sociable child. I don't know when they met but I'm glad they get along." They watched the two enthusiastic kids talking about something again, and from here they heard them say, "Do you want to exchange numbers?" Eijun asked. Tsukishima nodded, "Hm, yeah, what's your name again?"

How come? Tsukishima's attitude is suddenly very friendly to Eijun?

"Okay, done. We'll talk about it later. Have fun training again." Eijun waved casually, unaware of the great deed he had done.

"Ryu!" Eijun's steps stopped, even though it was still rest time there were still people practicing, ignoring the fatigue like monsters. Aren't they tired? Asked someone who had monster-like stamina. 

The ball in Tanaka's hand soared, the hand swung, immediately the ball crossed the net, a fraction of a centimeter away from falling on the opposite court if not for someone. 

"Rolling thunder!" True to his name, with a super lightning move Nishinoya received the ball, bouncing it, before he rolled gloriously. "Haha, Ryu, you still can't beat me!" 

"Akh! Noya, you are amazing." Despite his frustration, he still gave a thumbs up. The two turned their heads, hearing an applause. "Wow, it turns out you two are great senpai!" Eijun had realized during the match earlier. Especially that Nishinoya moves with the cool name.

"Hah, now you're acknowledging our greatness." Both puffed out their chests, raising their chins.

"Yes! I knew you guys were good from the start." His sincere praise was not what they expected. They thought Eijun would still look down on them, because Tokyo kids usually do, right? 

"Yeah-well. Just so you know." Tanaka coughed while Nishinoya stroked his nape. 

"Can I ask you a question, Noya senpai?!" 

"Ask what?" 

"How did you do that move?" Leave it to Eijun when it came to pleasing people. Whether he realized it or not, Eijun could easily win over his interlocutors. The proof was that Nishinoya's eyes were now sparkling, pulling Eijun into the field. 

"Earlier I also saw you asking to be taught to jump from Hinata. Okay, now it's my turn." Eijun nodded.
 
"Ryu, help me." The two began the simulation in order to give Eijun an example. His eyes stared intently at every move Nishinoya made and without realizing it, he simulated the movements in his head. His hands were twitching as if he was the one receiving the ball.  

No one realized it yet, but starting from here, one of the chains on his leg had come off. 

It was getting late in the afternoon and the practice seemed to be reaching its end. "This is the last practice, get ready!" Ukai threw the ball in front of the net, everyone took turns hitting one by one. 

In gratitude for being allowed to come over, Eijun helped the managers any way he could. Now Eijun and Yachi were collecting balls on the other side of the field while occasionally chatting. They seemed to be so engrossed in their conversation that they didn't realize a ball was hurtling towards them. 

"Eijun!" 

"Yachi!"

From the corner of his eye, Eijun saw something approaching, he dropped the ball in his hand, reflexively bent his legs, leaned slightly, and brought his hands together in front of him. Eijun received the ball smoothly, the reflection of his eyes caught the ball bouncing beautifully in front of him. 

Thump. The sound of the ball falling was loud in the quiet gym.

"Woah ... that was close." Eijun fell backwards feeling all the adrenaline drain from his body. 

"Are you okay, Yachi?" He asked Yachi who was looking at him in awe. "A-ah, yes thank you Eijun-kun. You're fine too, right?" Eijun nodded lightly, smiling.

"Did you guys see that?" 

"Who exactly is he?" 

"They say he's Daichi's cousin." 

"I know, but is he a volleyball player too?" 

"No, I heard he's a baseball player?" 

"Baseball?! No way, his moves are so natural." 

"Ei, are you okay?" Daichi checked his entire body, fearing that there was an injury that had escaped him. "I'm fine, Dai-nii, the ball didn't hit me, mostly my hand feels a little hot." He showed his slightly reddened arm. 

"That's a relief. If you had been hurt, I can't imagine how angry Mother and Auntie Emi would have been." Goosebumps went down his back instantly. 

"Woah!!! Eijun, you're so cool. In one try you got it right away? How did you do that?" Nishinoya noisily asked. He could see there was talent in Eijun. 

Eijun rubbed the back of his neck, blushing. "Hm, maybe it's because I practiced a bit with my friend who likes volleyball? That time I was a little curious as to why," he glanced at Daichi who glanced back, "someone I knew switched sports to volleyball. Plus seeing your previous receive, Noya-senpai ... " he shyly looked at everyone, rubbing the back of his neck, "it became easier for me to do it."

"Just by watching me you can receive?" There was pride in Nishinoya's voice.

"Are you of the same species as our foolish king? A genius?" Tsukishima commented, smiling cheekily, pointing at Kageyama. Beside him Kageyama growled in displeasure at the nickname.

"Genius?!" they said in unison.

"Daichi-san, why didn't you say that your cousin is a genius?!" Almost the entire Karasuno looked at Daichi with sparkling eyes, cornering him. Daichi took a step back. This was not good. He would be bombarded with questions and wouldn't be let off easily. 

While on the side, Eijun just chuckled, he felt sorry for Daichi but as long as he wasn't the one who suffered, it didn't matter to him. 

"Wow, Eijun! Can you teach me?" But there was an exception. Hinata tried to approach which was immediately held back by Yamaguchi. 

Eijun could only sigh. Looks like he got his immediate reward. 

- 🃁 -

After the practice was over, Eijun was again formally introduced to all the members of Karasuno. There were warm welcomes as well as teasing remarks but in the end everything was harmonious. 

"Excuse me." Eijun was quite impressed with this room he entered. Indeed, this changing room is quite small but still neat and convenient to use. Unlike Seido, which mostly changed clothes in their respective dorm rooms, there were no dorms here so they used the changing room together.

"Don't forget, Hinata, Kageyama." Suga stood in front of the two who were sitting in a seiza position, looking serious. "Tomorrow you have to work seriously. Don't rush and fill it in lazily. Understood?" Both of them sluggishly nodded, 

"Haik, Suga-senpai." 

"Is there anything tomorrow?" Eijun whispered to Yamaguchi. "Oh, they're going to do extra classes so they can attend tomorrow's training camp at Nekoma." His head poked out from under his shirt, then he folded his dirty clothes. 

"Ah, the training camp ... wait, you guys are training camp at Nekoma?!"

"Yeah, you know Nekoma?" Yamaguchi looked at him curiously. 

"Well, you could say that." 

"You two only failed one subject, right?" Tanaka appeared standing in front of them, both hands on his waist. "In that case, the extra class should be over before noon. After that, I'll call your savior." He smiled.

"So just focus on what you have to do, okay?" Tanaka patted the two's shoulders in turn, Hinata and Kageyama looked at Tanaka with tearful eyes. 

"Tanaka-senpai!" Hinata jumped in, she hugged Tanaka tightly while Kageyama just smiled a little. 

"Hey-hey, it's no big deal! As your senpai, it's my duty to help my kouhai." Tanaka shyly patted Hinata's back which was returned with an enthusiastic nod from the orange-haired boy. 

Everyone laughed at Tanaka's red face, Nishinoya and Enoshita even teased him, obviously Tanaka replied unhappily. Eijun laughed too. Glancing to the side, there was a gentle smile on Daichi's face. 

"See you soon Eijun!" 

"Yeah, see you too, Shoyo!" They fist bumped, waving enthusiastically. 

Eijun spun around, catching up to Daichi who was a few steps ahead. "Looks like you're already familiar with them." 

"Haha, after all Dai-nii's friends feel familiar, they also easily accept me." 

"Yes. They seem happy with your presence." Their feet stepped in a steady rhythm. The sounds of night insects began to sing loudly, accompanying their journey home. 

"Dai-nii." Eijun started the conversation, Daichi glanced at him. "You're going to the training camp tomorrow. Is it really going to be held at Nekoma High School?" 

"Yes. Didn't I tell you?" 

"Not yet. Then ..," he fiddled with the hem of his shirt. Daichi patiently waited, "can I go there?" He looked up, daring himself to look into Daichi's eyes. The reflection of Eijun's eyes seemed to glow in the moonlight.   

"Hm, well ... " Daichi touched his chin, pretending to think.

"I-I promise I won't bother-" Daichi's eyebrows rose, "-again. This time I'll just watch you guys practice. Then, I can be your temporary manager. Like today, I'll help Kiyoko-san and Yachi-san. They definitely need extra help especially when it comes to lifting heavy things." Eijun showed off his slightly muscular arms. Looking at Daichi expectantly. 

Daichi was still staring at him intently, not having spoken yet. "Hm. I need to tell Ukai-san though. Not to mention asking Nekoma High for permission." At the end of his words he glanced at Eijun who was now looking down, disappointed.

"There's still no way, huh." It's not that he hadn't expected, but still he was hopeful. 

"Hahaha. Ei." startled by Daichi's laughter, Eijun looked up again. "I was joking. I knew you might ask so I talked to Ukai-san first and he said it was okay. Like today as long as you don't cause any trouble to other schools, you can come." 

"Are you serious Dai-nii?" Eijun jumped up and down a little happily. 

"Yes." Daichi looked at him fondly, nuzzling Eijun's head. 

The moon that had been covered by clouds shone again, as if smiling at the two. 

- 🃁 -

"Who is this?" Passing through the gate, Eijun was greeted with a warm hug from Suga. "Ei-chan coming too?" He pinched Eijun's cheek affectionately. 

"Just as I thought he'd ask." Daichi folded his arms, nodding.

"Haha, it's true what Daichi said. My Ei-chan is really adorable. Don't make trouble okay." Eijun squirmed. He purses his lips in annoyance after escaping from Suga who obviously only made him even more adorable.

"Yes, I'm not planning to cause any more trouble for sure. But, by the way, where are Shoyo and Tobio?" He looked around, not hearing that cheerful voice. Their rental bus had arrived and almost all the members had arrived except those two. 

"Didn't you hear last night? They'll have extra classes and catch up later." Speaking of which, Tanaka got out of the van with someone. " Guys, let me introduce you, this is my sister Tanaka Saeko. Just call her Saeko." 

Suddenly Tanaka's head was hit from behind. "Saeko-neesan. Don't forget that." She smiled at them - who were slightly creeped out - and then continued to hit Tanaka's back. "You must be having a hard time with this child. Thank you for taking care of him." 

Tanaka just grumbled while Nishinoya had been approaching the two since who knows when, greeting them excitedly.

"So your brother will take them?" Ukai and Takeda had arrived, the car engine had been started. 

"So your older sister is going to drive them?" Ukai and Takeda approached, the car engine had been started. "Yes, she says she will." 

Takeda approached Tanaka. "You should thank her properly."

Ukai shook Saeko's hand as Tanaka nodded. "Yes, I did." He recalled the incident last night in front of his sister's room. 

Not far away Eijun was just silently watching. He checked the time and realized that he had forgotten to do his morning run. He had been so excited last night that he had overslept, resulting in not having time to run in the morning. 

"Dai-nii." He tugged on Daichi's sleeve, whispering. 

"What?" 

"You guys are leaving soon, right? What time will Shoyo and Tobio leave?" 

"It depends on what time they finish. But maybe before noon? They only have one extra class right now."

 "I see. If I go with Saeko-neesan alone with the two of them, is that okay? I forgot to run in the morning and I can be their supervisor at the same time." Eijun grinned. 

"Hoo~, good idea, but try asking Saeko-san first." Without waiting Eijun immediately approached her and asked with an enthusiastic expression. Saeko had wondered who he was, after being introduced and Eijun gave a reason, she was finally allowed to come along. One more person was still enough in the car. 

"Alright, it's time to go." One by one boarding the car, Eijun waved, watching the car slowly disappear behind the road. 

"Sawamura." 

"Just call me Eijun." Eijun pointed at himself. 

"Alright, Eijun. Do you want to wait here or go home first? I have some business to attend to and it looks like those two kids are going to be a while." 

"I'll go for a morning run first though I haven't decided afterward. So Saeko-neesan take it easy." Saeko nodded in understanding, starting the car engine. She rolled down the window. "If there's anything, just call. You have my number, right?" Eijun casually nodded.

"Be careful, Saeko-neesan!" The sound of the car engine grew farther and farther away. In the end Eijun stood there, left alone at someone else's school.    

- 🃁 -

“Excuse me. Sorry for sneaking in,” he whispered. Quietly, slowly, he opened the gym door with a pang of guilt. The door squeaked and each squeak brought more guilt to his heart. It was wrong but, hey, knowing it was unlocked, he just couldn't stop himself from entering. 

In order to fulfill his curiosity, he was willing to get scolded for sneaking in. But hopefully he wouldn't make too much trouble for Daichi later. 

Some time ago, after his morning run, Eijun returned to Karasuno with a clear head. He stopped in front of the gym, took a breath, feeling the fresh air enter his lungs. And indeed, running is the best.

After taking a sip of water to moisten his throat, Eijun began to do the training menu that Chris-senpai had given him a while ago, which of course had been adjusted for his current condition. 

Everyone just didn't know how frustrating it was that he couldn't touch a baseball! And now finally!! He was able to let out all that frustration after being away from the sport for so long.

Chris-senpai did say not to overdo it, but even so he was happy.  

When an hour passed he stopped, and decided that was enough for today.

He briefly checked the cell phone in his pocket, and found that there was still enough time until the two of them finished the extra class. So he decided to wait a bit and look around the gym again. 

There was something that intrigued him.

Standing in the center of the court. He imagined that in front of him lay a high net like a huge wall, disguising the opposite side of the court. Silently his eyes closed. Still vivid in his mind, the hard-hit ball, the screeching of shoes, those calls of encouragement, and that air of passion for scoring. Yesterday was truly a game that changed his worldview. And there are probably many new things he will see when he visits the training camp. 

Eijun looked around. There was still time, although there were no items he needed but it seemed he could use this room for a while. Hands pulled above the head, legs stretched out to the sides, warm-up completed, Eijun stood at the back of the field. He tried to recall what Hinata did yesterday. 

Hinata took a stance, eyes focused straight on. The ball in Kageyama's hand soared high.

Eijun also took a step, eyes focused forward. Even though there was no ball coming he still imagined that someone standing in front of the net was ready to give him the ball.

Immediately his feet sprinted and in an instant had cut across the court, stopping in front of the net, both hands stretched out like wings behind him. As he tightened his legs like springs, he pulled his right hand back with all his might.

With determination, Eijun ran with all his might and in the blink of an eye he had cut across the court. Just as Hinata did, he tightened his legs like springs, both hands stretched like wings behind him. Before jumping high with all his might while pulling his left hand back. 

The imaginary ball in front of him bounced hard into the opposite court, Eijun landed safely, panting as he stared at his empty left hand.

What did he just ... do?

He had intended to try jumping high like Hinata. However, he suddenly envisioned someone who would throw a ball at him like Kageyama did beforehand. So he reflexively did that ... 

Deep down in his heart he knew. He knew why he did it. He was just ... sick of letting someone down, even if it was just a figure or a fantasy.  

"Maybe one more time." The habit deeply rooted in his blood made him not easily satisfied. Even though no one was watching, even though his actions might have gone to waste, he kept repeating the movement over and over again, until the gym door opened. 

"Eijun! Are you here? I called you earlier." Saeko stood in the doorway with her arms folded. Oh, no! What time is it? 

"Sorry, Saeko-neesan. I didn't hear you. I'm on my way now." He hurriedly put his towel and cell phone into the small bag he was carrying, not forgetting to close the door, again watching the surroundings. Luckily none of the teachers had seen him enter here. 

"Are they done yet?" 

"They should be, I got a message from Kageyama earlier. Hurry up, I'll turn on the car right now." 

Eijun put things in the back of the car before getting an idea. He grinned silently. 

"Fighting!" Their teacher cheered. The second the bell rang, Hinata and Kageyama hurriedly ran outside. In front of the school was waiting for a woman with a white car behind her. "Hey, you two failures." Saeko smiled which reminded the two of Tanaka.

"Get in!" She pointed at the car behind her, both of them gulped. "You ... Are you Tanaka's sister?"

"Call me Saeko-neesan." She turned around, "I'll take you to Tokyo in no time." She winked making both of them blush. 

"Saeko-neesan!"

"Saeko-neesan!" 

Saeko entered first, followed by Hinata who sat in the front, while Kageyama chose the back. "Eijun?!" 

"What?! There's Eijun?!!!" Hinata turned his head, his eyes perfectly rounded to see Eijun back on the chair after hiding below.

"Surprise! Did you miss me?" Eijun chuckled, he tried to wave a hand in front of Hinata's face but Hinata didn't budge. Too stunned to react.

"You, how come you're here... no! More importantly. Kageyama, switch places with me!" Kageyama just looked away, ignoring Hinata's ramblings.

"Too late, just sit quietly." Saeko locked the door, fastening the seat belt. "Alright, let's go!" Without waiting for Hinata to speak again, Saeko stepped on the gas pedal, turning the steering wheel to the extreme. 

"No! I want to sit near Eijun-!!!" her words were cut off as the car took another sharp turn. 

"Woohoo~" And that's how the three of them had to survive that 'hellish' car.

Some time passed, the road was no longer curvy and they could finally breathe a sigh of relief. Kageyama had even fallen into a deep sleep who knows when. 

Saeko glanced over, "Hey, stop making that face. I know you're anxious," she said as she tugged on Hinata's cheek. For a moment she pulled the lollipop from her mouth, "But certain scenery can only be seen when a longer road is taken."

"Wow, I don't really understand it but that sounds cool." Saeko just laughed at that, "I mean that due to your failure, you got to sit in my car now." The car swerved slightly, making Kageyama almost hit the window, luckily Eijun had time to hold his head. He slowly re-established Kageyama's sleeping position.

"You look worried. Do you really like volleyball?"

"Yes." 

"Why did you start playing volleyball?" Eijun, who had been silent, became interested in the question.

"When I was in elementary school, I watched Spring High on TV. Karasuno's match was aired at that time and ..." 

"I saw the Little Giant."

"You saw the Little Giant. Right?" Seeing Hinata's reaction Saeko chuckled, "Haha, my guess was right?"

"Saeko-neesan you know about the Little Giant?" 

"I think I was his classmate." she grinned. 

"I don't know who he is, but Saeko-neesan is awesome." Eijun couldn't resist commenting. Hinata also looked surprised. 

"But I never talked to him. I would've known him if he was the rebellious type."

"Is Saeko-neesan the type to be friends with all the delinquent in the world?" Hinata's innocent question made Eijun laugh.

"Exactly," Saeko replied with a simple smile. "But ... I happened to see one of the practice matches in school. He seemed to be scarier than any delinquents I knew." 

Eavesdropping on a conversation such as this was rude, but Eijun was really interested in this Little Giant they mentioned. Maybe he could ask Hinata or Daichi later. Eijun's attention returned to Saeko. "Not scary. More like intense."

"Are you talking about his spike?" Hinata asked while Eijun felt movement beside him.

"No. He probably wasn't in good condition then. He was substituted halfway through a match." 

Karasuno: 19, Yugama: 25

The final whistle blew.

Saeko, who was leaning by the door, watched the Little Giant exit the gymnasium as he looked down with wide strides. Not sure what she was expecting, but this wasn't what she had anticipated. Approaching the small cupboard, the Little Giant suddenly slammed his head hard and soon the bucket on top of the small cupboard fell down. Even so, he didn't budge. Silent. Without warning he suddenly turned to her. That intense and deep gaze stared at Saeko. It seemed to swallow her whole. Suddenly her whole body got goosebumps instantly.

"He was probably what you would call an ace. The pride and absolute confidence of being an ace. You could actually see that from him." Eijun's hand stopped at that.

Saeko laughed. "That time I almost fell for him." By his side Kageyama's outstretched hand took the onigiri from his hand, oblivious to Eijun's hesitation.

An Ace. 

A figure who leads and paves the way for the team. Someone who is given an obligation and has the trust of the entire team.

As the name says, they are the person the whole team relies on and expects the most from. 

So, if he wants to be an ace in Seido he must earn their trust, no?

Can he earn it?

Saeko continued. "When the ace is in action, the team morale is kept high. It's like the team members won't let the ace fight alone."

"Neesan, you seem to know a lot about the Little Giants."

Saeko's face flushed slightly. "Not really, I just happened to have watched a few of his matches." She took another bite of the candy she had been holding, grumbling slightly, "So you've woken up."

With his messy hair, Kageyama gobbled up the onigiri. "Because I'm hungry. Eijun gave it to me." Eijun nodded, taking a bite of his salmon onigiri too. He had offered it to Hinata but he didn't seem to be in the mood.

"Following your instinct, huh?"

"Yes." 

Ignoring the small commotion around him, Eijun glanced at Hinata who remained silently staring at the window. 

'You too must be trying hard to earn this team's trust, right?' Silently, the reflection of Hinata's eyes from the window seemed to light up.

As if answering his question.

The corners of Eijun's mouth lifted, giving a small nod.

"'Course," he murmured.

In the end Eijun joined in looking at the scenery outside the window. 'Hopefully we can reach our own dreams.' 

The sun had dropped from its throne when the four got there. Saeko opened the gym door, breathing a sigh of relief. "They're still playing! We made it in time."

“Saeko-neesan!” Nishinoya immediately greeted. Waving his hand cheerfully.

"Ah, Tanaka's sister." 

"They finally made it." 

Tanaka, who was breathing heavily, was also relieved. “It's a good thing they came in one piece.”

Saeko grinned, turning her head. Tired breathing sounded faintly behind her. 

"So, the stars showed up fashionably late? How infuriating." There was a frown on Kuroo's forehead while Kenma glanced over curiously. The members of the four teams were also curious about the sudden interruption. 

In the threshold, under the inquisitive gaze with the orange sky as the backdrop. The highly anticipated Karasuno duo finally arrived. 

Behind the pair, Eijun, who was just an outsider, could only watch their backs in silence.

- 🃁 -

“Amazing!” Eijun's eyes lit up. It was true that the Karasuno match yesterday was mesmerizing but it turned out that he could still be even more enthralled like this. How thrilling and amazing would the national match be?

"Nice serve!"

Night had fallen, but the gym was still buzzing with excitement, as if their energy would never run out. Along with Kiyoko and Yachi, Eijun's heart was involuntarily racing. There was always a new feeling for him every time he saw the ball flying back and forth over the net.

"Nice receive!" Hinata stomped her feet, jumped up, hands swung, before Eijun could blink, the sound of the ball bouncing was heard on the opponent's side of the court.  

"What was that?" 

"It was so fast!"

"I've never seen such a quick attack."

"Let's stop the next one!" cheered Captain Shinzen.

"All right."

"All right."

"Nice serve!" Kageyama performed his signature serve which was received by the opponent but the opponent failed to secure it. 

Bokuto commented, "Oho, nice serve. Not bad." He and Akashi were watching on the sidelines with a watchful eye. 

Number 7, Eikichi-spike. Both of Karasuno's blockers-one of whom was Hinata-successfully blocked, Hinata even touched the ball. "Nice, Hinata!" 

With no time to stop, Hinata immediately ran, preparing to score points.

"Eikichi, stop number 10!" Useless, Kageyama's eyes had locked on Hinata's figure in front of the net, with great accuracy he threw the ball right in Hinata's hands. Although Eikichi's efforts were not too futile, he managed to touch the ball slightly. 

The whistle blew. Signaling the end of the match. 

Shinzen: 21, Karasuno: 25

"Damn!"

"I manage to touched it, but we couldn't catch up!"

"What's with the quick attack from their number 9 and number 10 anyway?"

Under the cheers of amazement as well as astonishment, the duo being talked about seemed to be panting. Hinata wiped her face. "Stop stealing the show, you two late failures." Both of them gave a small gasp. As usual Tanaka brought them back to reality.

"We finally won once after nine matches. We don't have to do diving drills anymore." 

"Only won once? Are you serious?" Eijun welcomed everyone, handing each of them a towel and a water bottle. "Unfortunately yes. As expected of a national-level team."

"I'm hungry!" Nishinoya grumbled in the middle of it. Karasuno. This team that he thought was already great lost nine times? Eijun grinned. This was getting interesting. 

Speaking of which, he didn't hear Hinata's voice. Where is he now? 

At the back, alone, Hinata's face looked down. He didn't wanna be nosy, because even he and Hinata were just getting to know each other, but there was a familiar feeling seeing her right now. 

Those eyes, Eijun knew them too well. 

No wonder they got close so quickly. It was as if they could share their feelings without talking. 

- 🃁 -

In the corridor illuminated by the moonlight two people walked hurriedly and impatiently. 

Eijun thought again about what he had done wrong to deserve this punishment.

"Akaashi!" Bokuto approached the person he called with Eijun in his arms. In order to meet this person, Eijun was dragged along involuntarily without being able to resist. 

"What's wrong Bokuto-san?" Akaashi glanced at Eijun who was pushed to face him. Wait, this is too sudden! Eijun squirmed.

"I told you, Juni! You guys sound alike!"

"What?"  

Eijun shook his head for the umpteenth time, "And I told you, Bokuto-san, I.Don't.Sound.Like.Anyone! Also why do you keep calling me Juni?!" Eijun was tired. If only he had met Daichi, he might have gotten out of this situation by now. This was all because of Tsukishima! He wouldn't help him when Bokuto pulled him out. 

"Wait a minute, Bokuto-san. What's going on?" 

Bokuto didn't answer, instead he explained back to Eijun. "You heard it yourself, right. Your voices are similar! Maybe Akashi is quieter and smaller than you, but still!" 

"It's not similar!" Eijun stubbornly refuted. 

Akashi more or less understood the situation. "If I may know, Bokuto-san. How did you know that mine and his sound alike?" After a long time, Bokuto finally reacted. For a moment he seemed to contemplate, releasing Eijun's shoulder that he had been holding back so as not to run away. 

He put his hand on his chin. "How do you sound alike? Isn't it obvious?" 

"Which one is obvious?" Eijun, who had been thinking of running away, decided to hold back for a moment. While Akaashi was not too confident in the answer Bokuto would give. 

"Just hearing it, you'll know right away! Haven't you noticed?! Juni, even though your voice is loud, I can hear the resemblance to Akashi. Especially when you're mumbling like you did earlier." 

Eijun was honestly speechless. This was all nonsense, the explanation he gave made no sense at all. He glanced at Akaashi for help. And as Akashi expected, the answer Bokuto gave was not helpful. 

"So you are saying that our voices sound similar. But I think our voices sound different. So I ask you again, Bokuto-san, how do you know we sound alike?"

"'How? What does that mean? I told you that you guys look alike. Akaashi, try shouting like Juni right now, as loud as you can. I'm sure your voices will sound very identical." 

He glanced at Eijun in turn, "Or Juni try talking like Akaashi, lower and quieter too. Like when you were mumbling earlier." This is frustrating. Bokuto would not give up until his wish was fulfilled. At this rate, they would inevitably need to obey him. 

Akaashi made a pleading yet guilty face at Eijun. Eijun sighed, giving a small nod. "Bokuto-san, Akaashi-san is unlikely to shout now that it is already late. So ... maybe I should ..." Eijun paused. Now what should he say?

Also, why was he in this current situation again? 

He had talked to Haruichi and Kuramochi, sharing news during his absence from Seido, before returning to the room where they were staying. He also got to talk to Tsukishima, more like argue, before Bokuto came out of nowhere, saying his voice was similar to Akaashi's and pulling him forcefully to meet him. 

That's right. So now what should he do? 

"See? I told you already, Juni. You do sound similar to Akaashi!" 

"Eh?" Just what had he said? Didn't he merely speak in his head?

"You were mumbling earlier," Akaashi explained. Eijun stared in disbelief. "Really? I didn't realize." 

"Yes. You believe me now, don't you." Bokuto puffed out his chest.

Oh God! This question is really tricky. They had to be careful to answer. The two exchanged glances for a moment before nodding. They hoped that this gesture was enough to convince Bokuto, even if they didn't admit or deny it directly. 

"Hahaha, my instincts can never be wrong!" Thankfully Bokuto seemed to believe them. 

"Then I'll leave first. Good night Bokuto-san, Akaashi-san." Eijun bowed respectfully. He had to get out of here quickly! Akaashi nodded, pushing Bokuto's back to walk. 

"Juni! Call me Kotaro next time! Okay!?" He waved, clearly satisfied. 

"Good night." Akaashi also greeted him with an apologetic gesture. 

Sigh. This was so tiring. He glanced at the backs of the two who were moving away quietly.

- 🃁 -

"Shoyo's quick attack is as awesome as always!" In one of the rooms where they were resting, Hinata and Inuoka were chatting with Kenma occasionally joining in.

"But that also means I'm not improving." Inuoka looked stunned by Hinata's answer. He had not expected it.

'I'm just the same as before.' There was a feeling like something was binding his legs at the moment. 'I came here to become tougher.'

"Sho, are you here?!" Hinata's musings were interrupted when he heard that voice. You see, you could never mistake that voice for anyone else. In an instant, his sinking mood improved at the sound of that voice. An excited Hinata looked out from behind the door. "Ei! Come here! I'm here!" 

Eijun waved. Finally! He had been looking for Hinata in every room and couldn't find the orange-haired boy. How could he? He should have found him pretty easily thanks to his bright personality. Although he seems to have a lot on his mind at the moment.

The point is, he was happy to have found him. Despite being scolded by Daichi for being too loud and for getting lost again, he was able to get to know many members of the other teams. Kuroo in particular was very happy to see him, obviously just to annoy him earlier.

"Excuse me, sorry to interrupt."

Glancing over. It seemed that he was no longer surprised to see the game console in Kenma's hands now.  "Oh, there's Eijun?"

"Kenma, you know Eijun? How come?"

"Ah, we met by accident back in Tokyo." Eijun sat down near Kenma, greeting the boy he had just seen. "Hello, I'm Sawamura Eijun. Greetings!" 

"Greetings, too. I'm Inuoka So!" he replied with a smile.

Hinata sat back down in her seat. "What's the matter, Ei? Looking for me?" 

"Oh, I was just bored. Tsukishima was tired of talking to me, so he told me to meet you," Eijun explained casually. 

"How could Tsukki! I didn't know you were in the same room as him. It's good that you're here." 

"Yeah, my roommates also include Bokuto-san, Kuroo-san, and some Fukurodani members." 

"Too bad we're not roommates, Ei!" Hinata was sincerely disappointed which was only nodded in agreement by Eijun.

"Kuroo's not bothering you, is he?" Kenma asked without taking his eyes off the game console. "Huh! Even when I just entered the room, he kept bothering me! Kenma, do you have any tips for people like Kuroo?" 

"He's actually nice, but sometimes he's just too much." Kenma thought for a moment. "How about this." Hinata and Inuoka wondered what Kenma was whispering to Eijun. 

"Are you sure?" 

"Just try it." 

"Okay." Either way it seemed to be interesting.

They resumed their conversation when Hinata suddenly asked, "Hey, who's that middle blocker from Nekoma's?" 

"He's a freshman, Haiba Lev. He's half-Russian and half-Japanese." From what Eijun could see, Kenma was doing a great job of focusing on the game while occasionally joining the conversation. 

By the way ... Lev? Seems like he's heard somewhere ... 

At the sight of the lone Hinata that time, Eijun was about to reach out when the orange-haired boy suddenly turned around.

What was he looking at?

"Come on, Lev!" 

Bam. 

Gosh, not only Tsukishima but now there's another kid who is super tall? Is he from overseas? Or a mixed blood like Chris-senpai? 

Then, what the hell was that spike? His arm! His arm swung like a whip!

Is there a human who can do that? He unconsciously touched his own shoulder. 

Ah, yes. There really are humans like that.

Due to the shock, he forgot to see Hinata at that time. That's when he made up the excuse to check on him now.

"Half? So cool! Lev ..." Hinata tried to say his name.

"Lev. What was it? Is it 'tiger' in Russian?"

"It means 'lion'. Lion," Inouka explained.

"He wasn't in the previous practice match, right?" 

"Yes. Lev only started playing volleyball in high school." Eijun's ears perked up slightly. "During the Golden Week at Karasuno he was still new. Only the regulars went at that time."

"He played like that when he just started playing?" Eijun couldn't help but think. Indeed, from this layman's eyes, he could see that his movements were sometimes still stiff compared to other players he had seen, for example Karasuno. 

"Yes. When we were paired up, it was very difficult. No matter how hard I tried, I couldn't adjust the timing." He added, "but I'm already used to it." 

"Kenma-san kept sighing back then."

"There's was actually someone who Kenma can't understand?"

"That's because Lev is a special case. He's basically playing by depending on his innate physical ability and instincts. Then there's his height." 

"You're right! That height isn't fair! He should give me some!" Hinata sulked thinking about it again. Sharing that little bit of height with him wouldn't instantly make him short, right?

"He's too blessed! But I will not lose!" Inuoka got excited while Eijun just nodded, unable to comment much yet. Right now his status was still that of an outsider. So he chose to lean back, watching Kenma play the game. 

"Well, he can be a weapon to the team and he's also honest. So, he isn't that bad. He's just too blunt at times."

As if remembering something, Kenma's face fell. "Ah, but his skills like passing are still hopeless. He's worse than you, Shoyo. His serve is also worse than yours." 

"Kenma! So, your standard for bad skills is me?" 

"But you are bad," he said lightly. Eijun laughed loudly next to her.

"Kenma is actually talking to someone without being shy." Unbeknownst to the four, Yaku, Kai, and Fukunaga entered the room and overheard the conversation. With a feeling of pride Yaku's tears flowed while Kai nodded and Fukunaga remained as usual. 

Silence surrounded the two of them as they left the room. Hinata said he wanted to go to the restroom and asked Eijun to accompany him.  He didn't say it out loud but it seemed like he was afraid of meeting some kind of ghost on the way. Well, for Eijun himself, it was no big deal.

"Haiba. Haiba Lev? Foreigners have cool names, huh." Hinata initiated the conversation.

Eijun nodded. "Yeah. I wish I had a foreign name like that." 

"Oh, that sounds cool. I want too-" Hinata opened the door just as an ash-haired boy stood there.

Hinata hugged Eijun in panic. 'Russian! I have to greet him in Russian!' their minds probably thought like that.

"Karasuno No. 10?" 

"Japanese?"

"Sorry, I don't know Russian at all. I was born and raised in Japan." 

"Is that so?" Lev seemed to have just noticed Eijun's presence, raising an eyebrow. Seeing that, Hinata introduced him. "This is Sawamura Eijun, he came as a temporary manager at Karasuno." 

"Greetings!" Eijun extended his hand, smiling widely. "Nice to meet you too, I'm Haiba Lev." he replied, taking the hand. 

"Do you play volleyball too?" 

"No, I don't. I'm a baseball player-" 

"Really! Who's your favorite player? Is it Clayton Kershaw? Or a player like Yu Darvish? I heard Shohei Ohtani is also very promising. Oh, or do you like teams from Japan, like the Yomiuri Giants? Tokyo Yakult Swallows?!" Eijun gulped at the barrage of questions. He blinked a few times, overwhelmed by his opponent's passionate gaze. 

"Eum, I haven't really been following the other teams," Eijun glanced over, the corners of Lev's mouth dropping, making his heart grimace, "but! I know Clayton Kershaw, Yu Darvis and Shohei Ohtani! They're really great players!" Damn! That was all he could say. He promised that when he got home, he would be actively researching popular baseball topics. Not just during the game.

Helplessly, desperately he looked at Hinata, asking for help. "Uh, um, oh yeah! Hey, how tall are you? I didn't introduce myself properly, huh? I'm Hinata Shoyo, a first-year student."

Frowning slightly at the sudden question. Lev answered anyway. "The last time I measured my height was 194 cm. Also, I'm Haiba Lev, a first-year student too. Well, it seems you already know." Eijun secretly breathed a sigh of relief. Seems like Lev's attention had shifted completely.

"Your height is 194 cm? How nice!"

"You look even shorter up close,"  he said casually.

Ouch, Lev, why mention that forbidden word?! Doesn't he know there are people who are sensitive about their height? Eijun hurriedly restrained Hinata's hand which rebelled in annoyance. "What did you say, jerk?" 

"Calm down, Sho!" 

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to offend you." Lev raised a hand, backing away slightly. He continued, "But you can easily jump this high, right? I saw it during the match earlier." Hinata was slightly persuaded though his brows were still furrowed. 

"But I can jump higher." Again. Why did he love provoking people so much? Eijun tried to stop Hinata again before halting, a smile on his face. With wide eyes unblinking, Lev stepped back slightly. Hinata easily jumped high and hit his head, even though the door was almost as tall as Lev. 

"Ei, don't laugh!" he grumbled while holding his sore head. 

Turning around, Hinata gave Lev a steely glare. "Then," a grin appeared, "I'll jump higher than you." Lev was smirking too.

Hinata stepped back a little to give Lev some space. "Your spikes went over the net without anyone blocking them. That's awesome." Lev made a sound of agreement. 

"That's because ..." He pointed at himself. "I'm Nekoma's ace." What? An Ace? Even though he was only in first grade? Eijun was silent.

"But Taketora-san will scold me if I say that." Oh, apparently not.

"But you're a middle blocker just like me, right? You're a center, right? Shouldn't an ace be like Nekoma's Mohawk? Or a wing spiker?"

"Does being one have anything to do with your position?" Hinata's eyes widened at the realization. 

"The ace should be the one who scores the most points on the team. It's that simple." He said confidently, Eijun watching Lev pass them by, "See you tomorrow then. Course tomorrow, I'll be the first one to stop your quick attack." 

After that he casually left. And again Eijun only watched the tall back that walked confidently under the moonlight. At his side Hinata was silent, seemingly quite affected by the conversation. 

"Sho-" Now, from under the clouds the moonlight cast its light on the two of them at their backs. The silence in between was a little unsettling for Eijun.

"An ace should be the player who scores the most in the team." The outstretched hand stopped. Eijun held his voice back as he watched the orange-haired boy stare intently at his hand. He added, "Using his own hands." 

For a moment Eijun could hear the smoothly turning gears begin to make a screeching sound in the back of his head.

Blowing out a heavy breath, Eijun let Hinata's words sink into his mind. He, too, looked down at his left hand. 

He remained silent.

Slowly, he opened the rough, tightly clenched hand and closed it. 

Opening then closing. 

Opening ... then ... 

- 🃁 -

Then.

Before he knew it, a cold hand reached over his shoulder from behind. He chewed. A chill ran down his spine. 

" ... becoming an Ace?" Eijun felt his shoulders being grabbed firmly, a squeal escaped his mouth and the voice whispered in his ear again.

"Are you fucking kidding me?? That can't be happening." 

While one hand was on his shoulder, the other began to crawl, wrapping around his throat. Each of its fingers Eijun could feel slowly but surely strengthening.

"Never. As long as I'm here!" Both hands immediately strangled his throat. Eijun coughed heavily, unable to breathe. He wriggling desperately with his arms stretching helplessly into the air.

Just what did he do wrong? 

Why was he receiving this treatment?

His vision slowly blurred before he closed his eyes tightly. 

- To Be Continued -

Chapter Text

Chapter 4: Crumble sand castle, who's the liar?

8th July  (Sun)

The sunlight seeping through the window starts the morning in Seido. The chirping of birds greeted the children as they went about their activities. 

Entering room no. 5, Kuramochi dried his hair with a towel, putting the bathroom supplies in place before pulling on his uniform. In contrast to this morning's cheerful demeanor, his expression seemed twisted with an occasional grunt as he recalled last night's events. 

Kuramochi moved to comb his hair in front of the mirror. His reflection stared back with dark eyes and swollen red cheeks. He scoffed. His ferocious face looked even more ferocious now. 

After tidying up his hair, he took the ointment Rei had given him and applied it to his face gently. With this he hoped that in a few days the swelling would heal. 

Feeling that it was enough, he put the ointment back and then checked the cell phone that was being charged on the table. It wasn't long before Masuko entered with a towel over his shoulders and hair still wet from his shower. It was just the two of them in the room and it honestly felt very empty without the presence of a noisy brunette. Kuramochi and Masuko were used to it by now, to all that silence, but they still missed the bustling atmosphere when the boy was around.

Moving out the door, Kuramochi glanced once more at the bed where his brother usually slept before closing the door silently. For a moment, a somber silence enveloped the two who stayed in front of the door.

Masuko patted Kuramochi's shoulder lightly, saying, “I'm sure you'll be back soon. Good luck,” then he left Kuramochi leaning against the wall with all his thoughts to himself. 

A gentle breeze blew across his face, while the summer morning sun had been getting warmer lately. Slowly Kuramochi began to move his feet, moving towards the field. Both of his legs felt heavy, with every step he took forcibly reminding him of those foul words. 

A bitter taste was felt on the tip of his tongue. He should have been happy today, the kid he was waiting for would be back. Unfortunately, just last night he instead heard the thing that ruined his happiness this day.

Approaching the field he hears a greeting from behind. “Good morning. Yoichi-san.” Haruichi greeted. Next to him was Furuya who was leaning on his shoulder looking sleepy. 

“Yo, Haruichi. Furuya too.” He nodded, there was no excitement in his voice. The two first-years silently glanced at each other. They had heard the events of last night, not just them, perhaps the whole team had now heard it.

“Eum, senpai ... isn't Eijun-kun coming back today?” Trying to find a topic to change the atmosphere seemed to cause a reverse reaction, Kuramochi's face darkened even more and Haruichi didn't know what to do. 

“That's right. He'll most likely be home tonight, he said. What a bastard, when there are only two days left before the opening ceremony.” The corners of his mouth twitched slightly which Haruichi noticed. 

“I hope he's recovered,” Furuya chimed in, stroking his waist that his best friend had pinched, in order to help the conversation along. 

Suddenly a cracking sound sounded eerily in Haruichi as well as Furuya's ears. Now Kuramochi laughed with his trademark laughter making the two first-years feel happy to lighten their senpai's heart a little. “That should be it. He's been resting for a long time. If he comes back and gets injured again. Just watch out, kyaha!”  

'I wish you luck Eijun-kun.' Haruichi silently prayed.

Arriving at the field Haruichi waved to Kuramochi while Kuramochi moved to a quiet place, watching all the Seido members line up on the field listening to Kataoka's instructions. As soon as Kataoka asked them to disperse, the reality that he could no longer deny finally came. 

Inside the room with the multitude of trophies and certificates lined up, Kuramochi's breath seemed to catch. Under the sharp and pressure-filled gaze, cold sweat rolled down his back, his hands, which were trembling, were clenched behind his body. 

In utter silence, he waited. 

He waited. And then waited. Until the sound of his own heartbeat resembling the ticking of a clock rang loudly in his ears. 

“So ...” Reflexively, Kuramochi's body stiffened again. A heavy and authoritative voice echoed in the room, “What exactly happened last night? Can anyone explain?” 

Glancing to the side Kuramochi saw the boy who had fought with him, opening his mouth, he hurriedly interrupted, “I will explain Kantoku.” Kataoka nodded in permission. 

While the boy glared at him fiercely. With his two friends cowering behind him.

“Last night when I was about to train as usual, I overheard senpai and his friends talking about Sawamura secretly.” 

“So?” 

Kuramochi paused for a moment, “Maybe it's not my right to be angry about it, but I can't stay silent when I hear my friends being ridiculed. Sawamura was called an arrogant, stupid first-year boy, and better ...” 

It felt like the blood vessels in his forehead wanted to burst. His teeth gritted, as he recalled the conversation. The words he hated so much and had been replaying in his head all night. “We don't … do …, because soon … will definitely ...”

“It was better that Sawamura was injured than Tanba. And they were grateful when they found out he was injured not long after. With that they hoped Sawamura would become even more useless and be dropped from the first string.” 

There were small gasps from Rei and Oota. There was also the cold feeling of Kataoka's gaze on the two. And of course there was the burst of anger that came to the surface again after last night had subsided. 

The senior next to him certainly didn't accept it as he hastily rebutted, pointing at Kuramochi firmly. “It's all lies, I'm being slandered. Last night the three of us were just talking as usual until he came in suddenly saying that Sawamura was better than us third graders. So I was just paying him back, Kantoku!” Kuramochi growled loudly.

“Pay back? Pay back with a punch?” At Kataoka's question, the boy fell silent. His head lowered slightly, no doubt pretending to feel guilty.

“For that one I apologize. I was easily carried by emotions so I unconsciously hit him.” For the first time since arriving in this room, the boy, whose name he had forgotten, faced him, extending his hand. As if he was offering peace, “I'm sorry Kuramochi, I really didn't mean to. You forgive me, right? Oh, and is your face alright?” 

'Do I need to teach you another lesson like last night?'

Kuramochi understood what he meant. He understood that if he refused this apology, he would get his punishment.  

But Kuramochi just remained silent, looking him straight in the eye like last night. He didn't flinch in the slightest. 

He stared at the hand again for a long moment, before he looked up, watching the small grin that no one noticed except him standing in front of himself. Swallowing all the harsh words he was about to spit out, Kuramochi shook the hand, challenging it back with a grin of his own. “My face is fine, it doesn't hurt at all, senpai~” 

“Is that so?”

“Yes. Because it's not my face that hurts but the others ...”

The boy's forehead wrinkled, not liking the direction of this conversation. “Is there an injury you're hiding, Kuramochi?” Rei stood up feeling disappointed with him. 

Kuramochi continued, “No Rei-san, because my face is nothing compared to Sawamura's! That time I heard the three of them laughing while discussing those who 'taught' him a lesson!” 

“What?! That's not true!” Right. What Kuramochi said was not entirely true. They were not laughing about the 'lesson', but Kuramochi was sure they were not doing nothing to Sawamura either. 

A few months ago, on a normal day in a normal routine, the wrestling Kuramochi did to Sawamura seemed normal. His friends also felt nothing strange. Thinking Sawamura's request for forgiveness was just a mere response. Until a genuine little whimper escaped his mouth, barely caught by the shortstop's hearing. That second Kuramochi froze. Sawamura's headlock loosened. He didn't exert too much force to make Sawamura groan in pain, but with a sense of worry he gripped his shoulders, looking at Sawamura straight on. 

Kuramochi was foolish and so ignorant not to notice sooner. 

“Mochi-senpai?” 

Those eyes seemed to blur for a moment before his bright smile distracted Kuramochi.  

Precisely the smile that never reached his eyes. 

Not like normal. 

“Once again Kantoku! Everything he says is not true because I never did it!!” Kuramochi was pulled back to the reality he was facing. He snorted, momentarily forgetting the human jerk who was blabbering shamelessly next to him. 

Disgusting. 

He finally engaged his senior - who did not deserve to be considered a senior - in an argument that his opponent vehemently denied.  
 
The atmosphere in the room was instantly chaotic. Both of them had forgotten about the adults present and were only focused on the opponent in front of them. 

“Enough!”

A booming, heavy voice filled the room. “If you continue to fight, I will not only suspend you, but I will expel you from the club. It doesn't matter if there's a competition coming up or not.” This meant that Kataoka didn't care about taking the risk of losing one player from the first string.

The two immediately fell silent as Kataoka stood up, approaching the two. Under that gaze their guts shrank even more, bowing their heads deeply. “Kuramochi for two weeks I forbade you to set foot on the field.”

“But Kantoku-?!”

“After you reflect on your actions and depending on your actions in the first week. I may allow you to return sooner.” Kuramochi could not argue anymore.

Kataoka shifted. “And, you and your two friends. Regardless of whether what Kuramochi said about Sawamura is true or not. You will all be suspended for a month. You're forbidden to set foot on the field until your suspension is over. Is that clear?” The trio were about to protest before noticing Kataoka's narrowed eyes.

“Did I make myself clear?” 

“Yes, Kantoku.” 

Shortly after all matters were settled, the four stood at the door in silence. Kuramochi snorted while the third-year boy's face scrunched up with a dark feeling swirling at the pit of his stomach.

Wanting to rest quickly Kuramochi gave a small nod-as a final courtesy-and left the boy who was staring at Kuramochi's back with dark eyes.  . 

Kring ... 

Kring ... Kring ...

The time hit four in the morning. The alarm on his cell phone continued to ring loudly. 

With a ragged gasp Eijun sat up, waking up from his sleep. He cupped his face, breathing slowly, trying to calm his wildly beating heart. 

Hahh ... because of the previous night, the nightmare came back. Even though he had been able to sleep peacefully for the past few days.

Kring ... Kring ... Kring ... 

The alarm on his cell phone continued to ring loudly, slightly awakening his blurry thoughts.

Five minutes passed, Eijun rubbed his face once more before turning off the alarm and stretching. He looked around. Fortunately, no one had woken up except him. He was afraid of disturbing their sleep because of his alarm just now. 

Besides, why did he forget to reset the time again? He should have woken up at five! Not four?!

It was too early today. 

...

Ah.

He usually woke up at this time. 

... If he had a nightmare ... 

Well, it was a good thing he woke up because of the alarm, since he could be freed from the confining trap of the nightmare before.

Eijun exhaled again. Completely frustrated with himself.

Strangely, other than the nightmare, he was feeling uncomfortable today. 

He shook his head. trying to dispel the unpleasant feeling in his heart. 

For some reason he felt uneasy ... 

Okay, that's enough. 

Hope nothing happens today.

After sorting out his feelings, Eijun got ready for his morning jog as usual. He had asked Kuroo if there was a park nearby and he said that right in front of this school Eijun would be able to directly see it. Fortunately, he decided to jog there instead of circling around this neighborhood. It was both so that he wouldn't get lost in the new neighborhood and so that he could focus on reflecting on all the things that happened before coming to Karasuno until now. 

What he needed now was time to think.

“Ei! Since when are you here?” Hinata approached him with a towel on his shoulders. It looked like Hinata had been running earlier as well. 

Eijun stood up from his pitching position, switching to wiping his sweaty forehead. Today he tested shadow pitching and luckily his posture was still good, though he needed to practice a few more times. In front of him Hinata was still waiting curiously with sparkling eyes. “Hm, since 4 in the morning.”

“What?! How come it's so early! Next time you take me along too!” 

Eijun smiled. “I will, if I come to Miyagi again later. By the way, have you been running? I didn't expect anyone to be up early besides me.”

Hinata sat up, patted the space next to him, then picked up the water bottle near the chair for Eijun. “I went for a run. Then because my house is far from the school, I had to ride my bike from early in the morning. Can you say I'm used to it?” Eijun nodded, taking turns giving him the remaining water.

They talked for another half an hour before hearing the bustling inside the school. It seemed that many were awake now. 

“Gather around!”

The practice match was held again. Eijun stood slightly behind Yachi, listening to Ukai-san give instructions. When Kiyoko-san mentioned their final score against Nekoma, he gaped. Woah, Nekoma was indeed strong. 

Together with the staff, an excited Eijun was finally able to watch the match between his two new friends. And it was said that these two schools - Karasuno and Nekoma - had been rivals for a long time.  

A duel between a crow and a cat in a trash can. The famous duel that people used to talk about. And now there are still many who want to witness it again.

To put it bluntly. Eijun was completely dumbfounded! The Karasuno team that he had noticed was strong on offense met a team like Nekoma that was strong on defense. The meeting of the two teams was like fate brought them together. Perfectly matched, harmonious. As well as being natural enemies.

It was only in the middle of the match that Eijun realized how terrifying the kid named Kozume Kenma was. That new friend of his. He overheard Kenma asking Lev for something and afterward Lev managed to touch the ball hit by Asahi. Where Hinata was the decoy at that time. Eijun didn't know what Kenma was asking for, but it seemed like their plan was working.

That's not all, after Lev managed to block Hinata and Kageyama's quick attacks. Hinata clearly looked restless. It also made Eijun uneasy. Especially when he and Yachi were handing out drinks, he noticed Hinata's gradually changing demeanor. 

To be honest, probably since last night? Since their conversation with Lev. Or maybe longer than he knew? Glancing to the side, Kageyama stared at Hinata intently. There seemed to be one more person who noticed. 

And then it happened.

The whistle blew another round, Eijun stood again at Yachi's side and for some reason his anxiety was growing. His hunch really said something was wrong with Hinata today.

He watched as the ball Daichi saved bounced in front of the net. Suga and Yamaguchi called out, as the ball was too close to the net, but it looked like Asahi could still hit it. 

“Asahi!”

“Last!”

Answering the call, Asahi was already running and preparing to jump. Eijun imagined the ball would be hit into the opponent's court until-

The reflection of orange-colored hair suddenly appeared in his vision. 

And in slow motion Eijun watched the two collide in midair. 

Thud. 

Eijun gasped as Hinata fell to the floor hard.

He knew he couldn't brush it aside anymore. This uneasy feeling in his gut proved to be true.

A panicked Hinata apologized to Asahi while he was scolded by Ukai and Kageyama. The whole atmosphere among the Karasuno team was starting to tense up and it seemed to take some time to get back to normal.

Unfortunately Hinata didn't realize any of that. Eijun watched with a sinking feeling. 

Hinata approached Kageyama, with a serious face that Eijun had seen for the first time. “Hey, Kageyama.”

“What?”

“For that quick attack, I ... won't close my eyes again.”

The next second Eijun could hear the wheels of a machine that got stuck somewhere. 

No one would know that Kuramochi was waiting in his room instead of having dinner. 

Nor would anyone know when Kuramochi was pacing back and forth, restless when the kid he was waiting for was five minutes late, contrary to the message he had sent. 

And no one would know either when there was a knock on the door, Kuramochi with a racing heart opened the door then was immediately disappointed when he saw Miyuki standing in front of him. Not the brunette.

Now, there was someone who knew he was waiting for that idiot (his idiot) and that person was none other than the jerk who paused for a moment, looked him up and down then grinned, understanding the situation. 

Without Kuramochi asking Miyuki immediately sat down on his bed, the grin on his face not missing a beat as he looked at Kuramochi full of mischievous intentions.  “What? Just tell me what you want to talk about,” hissed Kuramochi irritably. He tried to cover his embarrassment by chugging some water. Then sat down at his desk while folding his hands. 

Miyuki just hummed, amused at her friend's frantic state. “Hm~ nothing like that. I was just wondering what Kuramochi Yoichi was doing since he wasn't in the cafeteria earlier~.” He suddenly laughed, dodging to the side from the book that Kuramochi threw. 

A response that never misses! 

The frown on Kuramochi's face deepened. “If you don't have anything to say, then just leave, you jerk!” Miyuki held his stomach. He hadn't laughed this much in a long time. The absence of the sun figure that he usually teased, a little made his day less interesting lately. Perhaps just like Kuramochi, he was also a little restless, (impatient) to meet that kid tonight.   

It's not like Kuramochi needs to know.

“Tsk, just tell me quickly. I know you have something to talk about.” 

“Hm, well ....” His eyes scanned the room. Apart from the room being quiet, the pile of new clothes drying near the unmade bed. And the game console that was always lying around carelessly had not been seen for several days. Miyuki looked back at Kuramochi. There was silence for a moment. Until finally, the duel of gaze between the two was won by Miyuki. 

Letting out an annoyed sigh, Kuramochi relented. 

“I don't want to beat around the bush. Honestly, what really happened last night?” Miyuki's eyes searched sharply, he continued, “As mischievous as you are, you're not a kid who looks for trouble especially with seniors.” Kuramochi snorted. It's not that he was afraid of getting into trouble with the seniors or anything. It's just that-

“Is this related to that idiot? That's why you're agitated like this right now?"-right on target. Kuramochi's mouth froze. 

For all those sharp minds, why did it have to be this time? Kuramochi ruffled his hair violently with both hands. “Agh! I don't know either!” he said desperately. ”All this would have been easy if that idiot had told me from the start.” 

Kuramochi pulled his hair fiercely, vaguely recalling the events of last night.

Closing the door and locking it, Kuramochi with bat in hand hummed. As usual he intended to practice swinging until he was satisfied, reducing the impatience he felt. And hopefully later, he could sleep well so that the next day he could welcome the youngest after a week away. 

His steps, which were a little carefree as Eijun once again gave the message that he would be back tomorrow night, stopped at the end of the hallway. At the back of this building, the non-selected members usually practiced while the main members practiced inside or on the field. But today in particular, Kuramochi wanted to be alone. He wanted to enjoy his time of solitude before his days became busy again, as they should be.  

Kuramochi chose a spot further away and deeper than his friends who were also training here. He simply greeted them and moved his feet through the trees and bushes until he truly felt there was no one around. 

Before long he began his routine. Swing after swing, eyes focused, he put all his concentration into it. His mind went blank and his feelings became clear. On the fiftieth swing he took a break, catching his breath as he wiped the sweat from his face.  

Perhaps he was too focused on swinging to notice the third years talking behind the building. Wonder, they seem to be here to practice, judging by the bat in their hands and near their feet. But why did they seem so engrossed in conversation that they didn't even notice him?

They also did not seem to be having a normal conversation as evidenced by their occasional glances and small, whisper-like voices. 

Kuramochi just shook his head.

Whatever they were doing he honestly didn't care. Although he just realized there was a cigarette in the hands of the three. It was better for him to continue swinging, fulfill his daily swing practice quota and go to bed.  

A night plan that should have been simple.

But it was hard to do when Sawamura's name faintly entered his hearing. 

His hand that was raised to swing suddenly stopped, he blinked a few times. Did ... his hearing go wrong? Why is that brat's name here? 

He scanned the surroundings again and there were no new people other than the four of them in this place that would automatically explain where the name came from. 

Kuramochi's forehead wrinkled. His stomach felt like it was churning and the alarm in his head went off loudly. A sign that something bad was about to or had happened. 

“Sawamura, that arrogant bastard. When did he say he was coming back?” 

“Yesterday Kuramochi loudly said he'll be back tomorrow.” 

“Damn, whereas without his loud voice and idiotic antics, the atmosphere of the team is peaceful.”

It's never a good sign when your name comes out of a senior's mouth in that tone. And it didn't take him long to realize that the three seniors were mocking their southpaw pitcher.

Kuramochi exhaled. It was not his right if they had any displeasure with Sawamura, as everyone had different opinions. However, he was honestly very annoyed at the taunts and disdainful tones coming out of their mouths. (If possible he wanted to gag each and every one of those poisonous mouths.) 

“What good is he anyway?” One of them continued. “He just has a unique form when pitching plus being a southpaw. His ball speed is no match for Tanba and Kawakami let alone his friend Furuya.” 

His two friends nodded. “ At best it's just that he can control his straight pitches and his bunts are decent as well as his batting which isn't too bad.” A puff of smoke escaped from his mouth, “If you can manage his unique form and get used to the timing of his pitches, he's nothing.” 

“Yeah~” The two turned their heads, waiting for the person with the piercing (who had been silent) to continue. Kuramochi's hunch said that guy was the leader among them. “He is simply useless. That noisy and annoying bastard only attracts attention because of his idiotic tricks. Maybe Kantoku took pity on him and put him on the first string to see how long he could be useful.” Kuramochi's hands clenched into tight fists. His teeth gnashed loudly. 

The man made a gesture with a smirk on his face. The ash from his cigarette fell in the process. “ Afterward he will surely be thrown away~” The three of them casually laughed. Kuramochi gripped the bat (and phone) in his hand even more. What was so funny? How could they laugh after saying that? It felt like he wanted to beat them up one by one. 

But he couldn't. 

Because Sawamura would certainly not be pleased.

He tried to catch his breath, slowly relaxing his grip on the bat. It was better to get back quickly. He might get his ears bleeding if he continued to listen to the conversation

“That's right. I feel sorry for Tanba. Because of his injury, his place is being threatened by an arrogant first-year kid. But, fortunately, that bastard got injured shortly after.” They laughed again. Seemingly satisfied and not the least bit guilty. 

Kuramochi's lips became scarlet from being bitten too hard. 

He felt like vomiting.

Enough, he couldn't take it anymore. 

Hurriedly turning around, Kuramochi wanted to quickly get away from this foul place. His darkened face was slowly illuminated by the moonlight that finished hiding from behind the clouds. Although the faint sound of swishing leaves could be heard, Kuramochi's hearing was still able to catch the last sentence that they said.

The sentence that made his heart stop beating. 

And he wished he hadn't heard those words.

Because he could no longer bear to hear them.

“We don't need to do anything, because soon that bastard will definitely break.” 

Asshole! 

That filthy mouth full of shit! 

How dare they?!

His wish to get away changed. His original aim towards his room switched to approaching the three people instead. “Senpai...”

The whispering between them stopped, with wide eyes they looked at him. The cigarettes in their fingers immediately discarded, the three stood up straight, glancing at each other. Kuramochi neither heard nor saw them smoking, did he?

“Oh, Kuramochi. What are you doing here?”  

Kuramochi ignored him, his feet taking another step. “It's obvious he's training, look at the bat in his hand.” 

“Haha, you're right.” The laughter between them quickly died down and awkwardness began to envelop the four. Kuramochi still kept his mouth shut but anyone could see the anger in his eyes with his hardened jaw. 

After maintaining enough distance, Kuramochi squinted his eyes, then opened his mouth. “Senpai ... can you guys stop?”  

The three were momentarily astonished, but quickly the friendly smiles they had shown earlier turned cold. They understood. Kuramochi heard everything. “What is it?” 

“Can you please stop looking down on other people's efforts? Look, I can't stop you from disliking him, but at least acknowledge his hard work. Because he has proven that he is worthy.” 

“Hah!” The kid with the piercing snorted. His two friends kept watching with absolutely no intention of stopping him. “What exactly are you talking about? Who needs to be recognized? And who deserves it? I don't understand what you're saying.”  

Kuramochi's patience was wearing thin. It was not his style to mince words like this, but he had to hold back. 

He had to.

“It's fine if you don't understand. I'm sorry that I misjudged you, senpai.” They did not expect Kuramochi to suddenly bow. He seemed to be very sorry and that made the three of them somehow annoyed.

Just as if Kuramochi was looking down on them.

“Huh?! What do you mean!!?” 

“I'm sincerely apologizing for overestimating you guys. It's not your fault if you didn't understand what I just said. At the same time, I also regret that I thought senpai could judge people well. But, I was wrong. So, please forgive me once again.”  

Kuramochi bowed once more, then excused himself. He did not look at them once. Neither did his feet stop to turn around. It was as if all his words were sincere and he was truly guilty. 

All that arrogant behavior made the veins in his temples thicken. With clenched fists and quick steps, he grabbed Kuramochi by the collar, pulling him roughly before punching him angrily in the face. 

Kuramochi fell to the ground and could not avoid getting punched in the face. 

Just as he predicted.

“All of you! Whether it's the first-years or the second-years, you're so arrogant! We third-years are the ones who deserve to be on the first string!!!” The pierced boy punched the right face and then the left face in turn. And in the process Kuramochi didn't fight back at all. Instead, he gripped the hand on his collar and stared straight at it as if challenging it back. Which obviously provoked him even more. 

“God! Stop it!” 

“It could be bad if Kantoku finds out!!!” Two of his friends tried to pull him away but somehow he was able to shove them off. Then with great intensity he continued to beat Kuramochi up. 

Things could have been even wilder had it not been for someone in spectacles arriving. 

“Why did you call me here, anyway, Mochi-?” His eyes instantly widened, “Kuramochi!!!” 

“There's Miyuki! Let's go!” Sensing the problem was about to get bigger, he gave one last punch before spitting in Kuramochi's face and leaving.

While Miyuki quickly got a towel lying nearby and helped Kuramochi to sat up.

“You're slow,” he commented harshly. Thinking back, if only Miyuki had come earlier maybe he wouldn't have been beaten so hard. Miyuki who heard that gave an incredulous look.

“Sorry?! I didn't check my phone because I was studying the scorebook in the room. Why are you challenging them directly anyway?! Are you a fucking idiot?? You could have gotten injured at that time.” Miyuki was annoyed that his friend was so careless, which was uncharacteristic. Kuramochi just growled, unable to argue. 

“Because I don't want them to just graduate in peace. If it wasn't for this, their loser actions would have gone unnoticed.”

“Yeah, you son of a bitch. You're the one who got beat up.”

“Kyaha, why? Are you worried about me?”

“You know what? I honestly wanted to leave you alone there, but seeing your pitiable face I couldn't.” 

“Asshole. Given your personality, you might as well do it!” 

“Hahaha, you know me so well~” 

Silence again engulfed them. Occasionally Kuramochi would wince, feeling the sting on his swollen cheeks. While Miyuki quietly stood up, went out of the room for a while, shortly returned with a towel filled with ice and handed it to him. 

Kuramochi grumbled. “Thanks.” 

“Mmn.” Miyuki returned to his place while Kuramochi was now sitting on the floor leaning on the desk leg. The faint sound of rain could be heard, Kuramochi with a towel in hand took a deep breath. 

“But I'm quite impressed. That night you purposely gave me a message, didn't you?” 

“Yeah.” 

Miyuki smirked. “It turns out Mochi can be sneaky too~” 

Kuramochi snorted. “It's because I've been close to you for so long that I got infected.” 

“Aww~ Thank you.”

“That's not a compliment!” 

Miyuki just laughed wiping away the traces of tears in his eyes. At least now the tension that had been hanging over them was slightly loosened. He didn't lie that he was impressed with Kuramochi's plan. Because if he was in his position, who knew if he could still think clearly hearing those foul words. 

Just thinking about it made him nauseous. 

“Just go back, I'll be gone for a while.” Kuramochi got up from his seat with the towel still on his face. He put the cell phone that had been in his hand into his pocket.

“Where are you going?” 

He pointed outside. “It's raining. That kid must have forgotten to bring an umbrella.” 

“Ho~ Big Brother Yoichi! You're very caring~” 

“Shut up! Or do you want me to beat you up? In exchange for that third year bastard from yesterday?” His grin signaled he wasn't joking. Making Miyuki immediately shut his mouth, raising both hands. Surrender.

“Alright, alright. I stopped.” He also stood up. Grabbed the umbrella Kuramochi was about to take and immediately opened the door. 

“You'd better sit here. I'll bring your beloved little brother back safely~” 

“Who's beloved little brother?!” 

“Yes, yes. See you soon, Big Brother yoichi~” Miyuki waved with laughter in his voice.

“Hey!”

Thud. 

Safe! Thankfully the door was closed otherwise whatever Kuramochi threw would have hit him hard. 

- To Be Continued -

Chapter Text

Chapter 5: If I Could Hold Onto That, If I Could Just Do That

July 8th - July 10th 

(Sun - Tue)

“Huh! Miyuki Kazuya?! Why are you here?” Eijun felt incredulous seeing the bespectacled catcher waiting for him in front of the gate with an umbrella in hand. The uneasiness in his chest was slightly covered by the warm feeling he hadn't felt in Seido for a long time.

“Yo~ Did you have a good vacation?” Wrong, he retracted his words just now. How could Miyuki do it for nothing? That's right, this was the Miyuki Kazuya he knew. 

“Miyuki Kazuya! You want to pick a fight?!”

Miyuki laughed and raised his hand. It was a hearty laugh that had not come from him in a long time. “Hai’ hai’~ That's enough. Let's go back because your big brother is waiting~.” 

Eijun tilted his head. Big brother? Who?

And the answer came when he opened the door, a hand went straight into a headlock on him followed by the signature laugh he sometimes missed. “Bakamura! Are you happy that you haven't seen me in a week? Too bad!!! Now you're stuck with me for two more years, Kyahaha!”  

“Geh! Mochi-senpai, let go!” 

“I won't. You must accompany me to play until I get tired. This is your punishment for lying to me.”

“With all due respect, Mochi-senpai, I didn't lie. There was a small incident before I returned. Then– one moment, Mochi-senpai! What's wrong with your face?!” This is why Kuramochi held his head, so that this brat would not see his swollen face. But because of his flexible body he still knew. Miyuki, who felt that there would be an uproar, immediately fled from the spot. 

“Hahaha, Bakamura you should scold him, okay! Because now I want to sleep. I'll leave him to you, bye~”

“Miyuki! Shut your mouth!” Kuramochi barked loudly, trying to buy time from the demanding gaze asking for an explanation. Damn it! Screw you Miyuki! 

“Tsk, sit down first.” 

As ordered, Eijun put all his belongings on the bed, charged his cell phone on the table, before sitting next to Kuramochi and accepting the game console that his senpai held out. 

“Listen to what I say while we play. Don't keep looking at my face.” Kuramochi continued to grumble. All the excitement of welcoming Eijun earlier was gone (well not completely gone if Kuramochi confessed) but Eijun knew this was a serious matter. So he held back all the questions he wanted to ask and obediently stared at the screen attentively.

Kuramochi sat back down after turning on the television, another sigh escaping his mouth. He had expected this. During the time Miyuki picked Sawamura up he had thought of various reasons to convince him. What was clear was that he would never be able and willing to explain the truth. 

He didn't want Sawamura to blame himself again . 

After the game started both of them were immersed in their own silence. Each of their fingers moved quickly to press the buttons, at least filling in the emptiness that was too distasteful for their taste. 

“ … last night … I got into an argument with a senior.” Eijun's fingers stopped at the same time as the words “game over” appeared on the television screen. Both of them stayed where they were, keeping their promise not to look at each other during the conversation. 

“Why?” Eijun asked in a low voice. 

“It's typical. They're just jealous.” Kuramochi's hand waved in the air. “They just don't like me and I just talk back.” Then he put away his game console on the floor. “And that was a stupid decision. I should have expected them to hit me out of annoyance. It's a good thing Miyuki came along, even though I don't want to admit it.”  

“Does Kantoku know?”

“Of course. I was banned from playing for two weeks, but he said I could come back sooner.” Eijun breathed a sigh of relief at that. 

“Huft, was Mochi-senpai a fool? I know habits are hard to change but why pick a fight with a senior? Did you hit him too? Was there any injury??” Now that the explanation was over, with a worried face Eijun examined Kuramochi's body. His hands were busy moving with his frowning face. 

“Uh, stay away from me! I didn't hit him because he was too busy beating my face. Also I'm fine, no other injuries other than my face being swollen and sore. Plus, did you know you look like Miyuki before? You guys are like moms already.” Kuramochi chuckled at Eijun's snarl.

“Don't equate me with that jerk. Huh! But thank goodness you're okay. Next time don't be impulsive, just report it to Kantoku.” 

“... you too.” Eijun's body froze instantly, his eyes blinking slightly in panic. “Hm?” 

“Tsk, you too, idiot. If anyone bothers you just tell me! Otherwise you'll be the one getting love from this fist of mine.” Kuramochi locked his head again (with little force) and gave his head a playful nudge. 

“Geh! Senpai! Mercy. Mercy!” Just then the sound of the door opening distracted both of them. Masuko entered, the plastic bag in his hand swaying happily as he rushed over to Eijun, hugging him tightly. “Sawamura-chan you're back.” 

“Masuko-senpai! I missed you too!” Kuramochi only smiled slightly at the interaction between the two. 

“Would you like some pudding? I bought a lot of new flavors to welcome you.” 

“Wow, thank you senpai! You're the best!”  

They spent the rest of the evening playing as they listened to Eijun's stories and the new things he had discovered while away from Seido. 

“Eijun-kun!” 

“Harucchi!!!” Once out of the room Eijun was immediately greeted with a warm hug from Haruichi. As usual Furuya was at the back following him. “I missed you!” 

“Me too Eijun-kun.” They laughed together, walking back towards the field with their arms still around each other. 

“How is it, Furuya? You didn't become strong without me, did you?” Eijun pulled Furuya to his side and put his arm around his shoulders as well. Although his height made it a little difficult. 

“I'm fine.” 

“Heh! I'll catch up with you quickly!” Furuya simply nodded too sleepily to respond to Eijun in the morning. 

“Yo, Sawamura! You're back already?!” 

“Jun-senpai! Of course! I can't let Seido lose because of me!”

“Asshole! Don't get cocky, kid.” But the smile on his face couldn't lie to anyone.

Many players began to circle around Eijun. Like Yuuki who nodded to him and said he was glad Eijun was better and back. Also Ryosuke, who hit his head, was a little annoyed by his loud voice but there was a smile on his face. Not to forget Miyuki who had just arrived immediately invited him to fight as usual. 

Anyway, Eijun couldn't stop smiling widely. He was happy to be back by their side and happy to be able to join the fight with his teammates again. 

It felt like Eijun was on a cloud until Kanemaru approached him with worrying news. 

“Sawamura, you were called by Kantoku to his room. Then Yuki-senpai, Kantoku said you would take over the morning training today.” 

Just like that, Eijun's heart skipped a beat. What's wrong? Did he do something at fault? Or was he still banned from training? Ah! Right, he should have reported back last night. 

Eijun smacked his forehead. Really, that's why Kantoku was looking for him.

Once in the room all eyes were on Eijun. And right in the middle, someone Eijun knew was smiling at him. A smile? Supposedly so. Because that was the smile he usually gave. “Hiroshi-senpai? Do you have business with the boss here too?” 

“Sawamura.” Eijun turned around, standing beside his senpai. “I know you just came back but I wanted to ask you something.” Wait. Why did the room temperature suddenly drop? 

“What do you want to ask, boss? Will I be punished for forgetting to report? If so, this Sawamura Eijun apologizes-”

“No, it's not. You're not guilty of anything.” Kataoka looked troubled for a moment. “First of all, I want to point out that you can be honest with all of us here. Don't be afraid.” Eijun was getting confused. Where did this all come from? For a moment Eijun looked around the room. In the small chair next to Kataoka was Rei with her eagle eyes fixed on him. On the other side of the room there was also Ota who Eijun realized kept wiping his face as if he was sweltering. Strange, when this room is air-conditioned. 

While sitting in the center of the sofa, there was Kataoka waiting patiently for an answer as if ... he was being careful with Eijun. For what, though? 

Then, Eijun glanced over, there was Hiroshi next to him. With the same smile every time Eijun spoke to him. A smile that sometimes feels ... odd . His every action always gave a friendly appearance but on the other hand Eijun realized there was a cold look in his eyes.

Eijun didn't really understand. 

“I'm sorry but I have no idea just what you are talking about. Haven't I always told the truth?” 

Seeing Kataoka being so cautious like this was starting to make Eijun uneasy. Fortunately Rei shed some light on the whole confusing situation. “Sawamura, did you experience anything unpleasant during your time in Seido?” And that … wasn't what he wanted to hear, to say the least.

Like a bomb, the question struck directly at his heart. Just what did Rei know? 

Subconsciously, he glanced at Hiroshi again who silently gave a small nod. “W-what does that mean?” His trembling voice did not stop Kataoka, “Someone told us that there might be something bothering you? Can you please explain further?”  

It felt like the world around Eijun abruptly stopped. Eijun really didn't know what to answer. He was sure he had hidden it well. So how did Kataoka and everyone else know? 

A tap on the shoulder brought him back to reality. Gradually the world around Eijun spun again. “O-oh.” Hiroshi patted his shoulder two more times. The form of support he always gave when Eijun finished sharing his feelings. 

“Kataoka Kantoku doesn't like players who complain all the time.” 

Under the mounting tension, the sound of laughter from Eijun felt out of place. “No, Boss! During my time in Seido everyone was nice to me.” He gave a small nod as if thinking, “Although sometimes there are jokes that go a little too far … but I don't take them to heart!” Because there are too many to fit in anymore.

“So, no matter who says so, I'm fine ! But I'm really very grateful that you guys care about me!” He bent down, closing his eyes. He really meant it.  

It felt like he wanted to cry. 'Thank you Boss, Rei-chan, and Ota-san! It seems that I'm still useful to you guys.' 

The room fell silent once more. Kataoka remained glaring at Eijun, waiting for him to let his guard down. But until the end there was no sign that he would drop his stubbornness.  

“All right, you may return.”

“Thanks, Boss.” Eijun took another bow before greeting Rei and Ota as well.

“Hiroshi-senpai. I'll go first.”

“Wait for me outside, Sawamura.” 

“Well ... alright.” He glanced once more before closing the door behind him.

- 🃁 - 

The sound of the door opening was heard as someone came out of the room. Hiroshi found Eijun leaning against the wall, waving to him with a smile on his face. “Have you been waiting long?” 

Eijun shook his head, looking at him for a moment. “Eum, if I may know, what Senpai has to do with Boss?” 

“Oh, right. Kantoku asked for my testimony, since I was … quite close to my friend who had a fight two nights ago.”  

“Fight?” It sounded familiar. “Are you talking about the one who fought with Mochi-senpai!?” Hiroshi just nodded silently. A few moments later he asked again. “Shall I not mention this to you?”

“Uh, why?” 

“Due to you being close to Kuramochi. I was afraid that you would feel uncomfortable with me. Because you know, I'm close to those kids.”

There was indeed one thing that always made Eijun curious. Out of all the people, why was Hiroshi who was friendly and kind able to be friends with them? Eijun wasn't one to judge from the outside, but to his knowledge they ... didn't seem like nice people either. 

“I'm fine, Senpai! Since it wasn't you who did it, right? Mochi-senpai won't have a problem with me being friends with you anyway.” 

“Sawamura.” As swiftly as it came the icy feeling from his gaze dissipated. Somehow Eijun caught this odd sign that he didn't want. 

“Yes?” Because this senpai was completely different! If not for his assistance Eijun didn't know what would have happened to him back then. 

“I will listen to you, so just talk to me. However, remember this one thing, only I support you, no one else, Sawamura.” 

“I think it's better that we don't meet for a while.” A cracked voice was heard in the back of his head. “Wa-wait! Why?” The sound of his heartbeat was deafening, Eijun was afraid he couldn't hear the answer. “You're too close to Kuramochi, in the end I'm sure he'll ask you to stay away from me too.” 

“That's impossible, senpai. You're a good person, even if you're close to them . Mochi-senpai must understand.” 

Not once did Hiroshi look away from Eijun, the look in his eyes did not show the usual warmth. As if to say he was serious. “Sorry, Sawamura. I didn't want to strain your relationship with him.” Eijun was getting agitated, unconsciously biting his nails. No, not Hiroshi-senpai either. 

“Remember this one thing. Only I support you, not others, Sawamura.”  

“Sawamura, listen to me.” Hiroshi gently pulled Eijun's hand away. “To achieve the things you want you must also let go of other things. And all those decisions are in your hands.” 

Hiroshi turned to pat Eijun's shoulder twice. “Only me... not the others ....”

“I–is the issue on Kuramochi-senpai?” Eijun looked up to look at Hiroshi, as always that smile could always calm him down. “I-if ... if I stay away from him, can we still meet, senpai?” 

Eijun never knew that Hiroshi could smile wider than usual. Hiroshi just gave him a long look after which he patted his shoulder again. 

Eijun smiled awkwardly. He couldn't get rid of the shadow of Kuramochi's gently smiling face last night. 

“To achieve the things I want, I also have to let go of other things.” Eijun muttered. “And all those decisions are in my hands.” This was probably the first time he was given the freedom to choose. Hiroshi's words were never wrong. Indeed. 

Crack.  

All decisions were indeed in his hands. 

He was right, wasn't he? Kuramochi would definitely understand because Hiroshi-senpai was a good person. 

Eijun silently nodded. Even so, he must not let Kuramochi notice it.

- 🃁 - 

By the time Eijun returned, it seemed that morning practice was over. Usually after this practice, many chose to have breakfast first, so Eijun took advantage of the time to take an early shower. After returning to room no. 5, putting on his uniform, and picking up his school bag, Eijun heard Kuramochi's distinctive voice. He hurriedly put on his shoes, then went around the corner from where his green senpai had come.

For today only, they should not talk. He had not settled in yet and his heart could not bear to stay away from his favorite senpai. 

At school Eijun couldn't focus at all (not that he usually listened to lessons), mostly he stared out the window, to the point where Kanemaru gave him murderous looks during lessons. 

He knew he wouldn't always be able to avoid it. There were many occasions for them to meet and Eijun practiced his expression many times in front of the mirror, during breaks and after school. Kuramochi was the third (or fourth?) person after Chris, Ryosuke (and Haruichi) to be sensitive to his surroundings. So Eijun had to act naturally in case they accidentally met.  

Thankfully, today Eijun would be spending time in the bullpen with Chris. In order to see Eijun's progress after a week of rest, Chris ran various tests such as readjusting Eijun's training menu, testing his posture strength, and looking at his pitches. As a result, he has less and less contact with Kuramochi, at least until practice is over. 

“Sawamura, what did you talk about with Kantoku this morning?” Kanemaru placed the tray across from Eijun, followed by Tojo next to him. Haruichi sat beside Eijun, added, “You didn't come back until after morning practice. Is that important?” 

Eijun took a sip of miso soup before stuffing his mouth full of curry rice. “Oh, there were a few things. I reported that I was back and the boss talked about how important it was to stay in shape.” He swallowed for a moment. “Because the tournament starts tomorrow.” 

“That's great news. Glad you've recovered, Sawamura.” 

“Thank you Tojou!” Eijun beamed at him before standing up to take the third bowl.  

Kanemaru scoffed. “It's a good thing you didn't come back another injured. It would have been useless for you to pass the exam but not be able to play.” This time the target of his comments shifted. “Speaking of passing the exam." Kanemaru squinted his eyes, "Furuya, Haruichi said you got a red mark in one of the lessons?” 

“Shinji, don't be so harsh. Furuya must have tried his best too.” Tojo sympathized with Furuya who was frozen in place. 

“You got a red Furuya? That means I won this time!” The newly seated Eijun puffed out his chest proudly. 

“Eijun-kun.” Haruichi sighs.

“Ha! Those mediocre grades? What can you be proud of? Anyway, I won't care if you fall asleep in class, because I won't help you, Bakamura. Also return my notes. I want to review the math lesson from two days ago.”    

“You mean Kanemaruuu, I just borrowed today!” Eijun pursed his lips in annoyance, but Kanemaru was completely unfazed.

“That's why, just focus on yourself, don't meddle with other people's business, idiot.” 

“Mumumu, mean! Kanemaru is so mean!” Grumbling, Eijun shoved as much rice into his mouth as he could until he choked. “Slow down, Eijun-kun.”  

In one gulp, the glass was empty. “Gah, thanks Harucchi. You're definitely the best compared to Kanemaru!" He glanced sarcastically before continuing to eat. At this point Kanemaru just rolled his eyes in mock indifference.

After a raucous dinner, mostly due to Eijun upsetting Kanemaru (no, Kanemaru was the one who upset me!). Haruichi invited Eijun to practice swinging which he immediately agreed to. Right now Kuramochi may or may not be in the room, or he may be secretly practicing somewhere else. But anyway, Eijun was happy to buy time for them not to meet. 

Taking turns Eijun hit the ball thrown with Haruichi then an hour later they finished and returned to their respective rooms. 

As soon as he entered the room, Kuramochi and Masuko had not yet returned. Eijun hurriedly changed his damp clothes with new ones, put the bat into the bag, immediately climbed into bed and closed his eyes. 

Today a lot of things happened. His physique was tired and so were his emotions. 

So just today please let him rest peacefully.

The next day, on the 10th of July, in the morning, all of Seido's first string players had gathered and lined up, waiting for Kataoka to speak. 

“I'm going to hand out your numbers.” the sound of beating hearts could be heard everywhere. “Come forward to take your number.” Kataoka took the topmost number from Rei's hand, then faced them all again.

“First, number 1.” Eijun gulped, his heart beating fast. He wasn't expecting much, but if given the chance. If he was given that responsibility, he would take it with all his might- 

“Whoever is on top of the mound is the Ace.”  

“Tanba Koichiro.” -yup, no one was surprised, there were only definite nods around. Only Tanba himself was silent, momentarily in disbelief. “What's wrong? You don't want to?” 

Eijun watched the broad, sturdy back take a steady step. His hands trembled slightly but the determination in his eyes signaled that he was ready for the task.  

“I will fulfill my duty.” Kataoka said no more, nodding in satisfaction at the declaration. Tanba returned to his place to be greeted with a warm punch and a rub on his newly bald head. The wide smiles from his comrades were not missed by Eijun, a sign of great confidence in the rightful Ace. 

At his side Haruichi gave him an understanding look which was returned with a faint smile from Eijun. Perhaps he lost this time and as someone who was sportive, Eijun admitted his defeat. However, to be clear, he had not given up at all. 

“What did I tell you? You don't deserve it, hahaha.” Eijun secretly clenched his fists

During the number distribution process, Eijun's gaze this time did not leave the back of his favorite green-haired senior. Last morning Kuramochi managed to hold Eijun, just asking (interrogating to be precise) about last night's early bedtime, checking if he was sick, and telling him not to exert himself. 

During the conversation it warmed Eijun's heart, but on the other hand he felt sick. Kuramochi was like a big brother, so he felt guilty for being disloyal to him. 

“Remember ... Sawamura.” 

“Number 6 Kuramochi Yoichi.” Eijun let out an involuntary sigh of relief. He noticed the others all seemed to be much the same. In the front row, Miyuki nudged the still-dazed Kuramochi, urging him on. 

Kataoka did not take his eyes off Kuramochi as if in challenge with his eyebrows raised.  “I'll accept it, Kantoku!” Kuramochi stood in front of Kataoka with trembling hands. 

The jersey number that had always been his, felt different now in his hands. “Remember, your punishment still stands. I'll decide whether or not to play you in the first match after this week has passed.” Kuramochi nodded, not protesting his decision. 

“Just wait, I'll be back soon.”  That morning Kuramochi stated it confidently and Eijun did not doubt it in the least,

Lost in his reverie again, Eijun did not realize Kataoka was calling him. “... Sawamura Eijun.” His eyes blinked. “Why are you being quiet too? Come over here immediately.” Both of his feet had stepped without him realizing it. And his hands had received the number 18 before his brain could process all of this. 

“I trust you. Don't forget that.” A wave of emotions hit him all at once.

“Just trust me, because you've already caught Kantoku's attention.”  What he said was indeed true. 

The doubts gnawing at his mind suddenly faded away the moment he looked into those confident eyes. Kantoku believed him. Not his team members, not even himself, but Kantoku. 

From the very beginning. Ever since he first set foot in this school. 

Eijun nodded. He would guard this precious flame of trust. He would not let that one and only spark of trust be destroyed.

“Congratulations Eijun-kun,” Haruichi whispered happily. “Thank you Harucchi,” he replied, smiling gently before he distanced himself from the world again. 

Number 18. 

Slowly, like he was holding the most fragile thing in the world, Eijun folded the cloth, leaving the number one in his field of vision. Eijun didn't know how long it had been since he had forgotten this tingling feeling that rose in his chest. The light in his eyes was still blurry but the twitch at the corner of his mouth could be noticed by anyone who took a glance.

18.

The number he got was still in double digits but seeing and holding this jersey number in person, it felt like all his efforts were at least worth it. 

Eijun looked up.

Number 18 - with the number 8 he was still folding, displaying the number 1 - he projected on Tanba's back in front of him.

The image of the number 1 fluttering on Ace's back gave Eijun goosebumps. 

And soon Eijun for sure! 

Once back in the room, he hurriedly put it up. The reflection of himself in the mirror with number 18 instead of number 1, it felt far yet close. 

When he saw Kuramochi who had just entered, Eijun forgot his promise, being too excited. He urged Kuramochi to take a picture of him, and despite his reluctance, Kuramochi agreed. Turning around, the number 18 was clearly displayed on the camera screen. “Are you ready?” asked Kuramochi, sighing. Without Eijun realizing it, there was a small smile on Kuramochi face.

“Yes!” Before the click could be heard, Eijun's hand had closed over the number 8, leaving the number 1 shining brightly. 

- 🃁 -

“We will now begin the Qualifying Round of the Tokyo East and West National Baseball Championships!” The excited voice from the loudspeaker filled the entire stadium. With so many people crowding in, people were making do with umbrellas or buying lots of water to stay hydrated. The sun was starting to rise up there, making the air even hotter and more stifling. But that didn't stop them from getting excited for the biggest sport in all of Japan.

“Wow, there are so many players!” Eijun's eyes lit up, glancing around. It was the first time he had met so many teams at once. 

“Because now the opening ceremony is combined with the eastern and western parts of Tokyo.” Behind him Haruichi explained. “The westerners will play here, in the semi-finals. Coming back here is our first destination.” Eijun nodded in understanding.

Among the 260 schools in Tokyo after 3 weeks only one school each from the east and west would qualify. The desperate summer battle to qualify for the nationals was about to begin.

“Hot. Too many people ....”

“Hey, Furuya! Are you okay? Geh!? Don't lean on me!” Eijun grumbled. Why was he so unlucky to be standing behind this polar bear-loving kid?

“Too crowded ... I don't like it.” Furuya leaned his body back even more. Eijun struggled to hold him back. The speaker in front had no sign of finishing, while the players on either side of him were also starting to grow weary of the scorching sun that penetrated their skin. 

Feeling unable to run anywhere, Eijun just sighed, accepting his unlucky fate. 

“Eijun-kun, be careful.” Haruichi put Furuya's arm around his shoulder, helping Eijun carry Furuya out of the stadium. 

“Argh! You're so heavy!” It felt like his body was getting hotter with Furuya clinging to him.

After the number assignment this morning, Seido immediately left to attend the opening of the competition at Meiji Jingu stadium. On the way, Eijun exchanged messages with Daichi who congratulated him and provided updates on the Karasuno team. Daichi said they were busy practicing and trying new things. And at the end of the message there was news about Hinata and Kageyama after the incident that night. 

Until now Eijun hadn't contacted Hinata, but that was okay, Eijun was confident that Hinata or rather the Karasuno team could handle their problems well.

“Just a moment Harucchi, I need to go to the restroom first. Can you take Furuya to the bus yourself?”  

Haruichi faintly heard Jun's loud voice whoever he was talking to not far from where they were now. “Don't worry Eijun-kun. I can already hear Jun-senpai's voice up ahead. But are you sure you can go alone?”

“Harucchi~ You don't have to be afraid. This great Sawamura Eijun can find the bathroom with his eyes closed,” he grinned, pointing at himself.

Haruichi gave him an incredulous look but finally nodded. He pulled Furuya's arm so that the entire weight of his body rested on him while Furuya was still limp. “Alright. If there's anything, just call me, okay.” 

“Yes, sergeant Harucchi!” The tips of Haruichi ears turned red, but He just chuckled at that. 

“Be careful, Eijun-kun.” 

Eijun waved to the two before hurrying to find a restroom along the hallway. Haruichi had nothing to worry about as he had memorized the location of the restrooms in this stadium. Thanks to the incident with Kenma back then, Eijun had learned to be prepared for any situation. Including looking up the public restroom floor plan in the first big stadium he ever visited. In Tokyo, the city he had recently moved too as well. 

Eijun was sure everything would be fine.

He was sure. 

Fifteen minutes passed, by now he should have been in front of the men's restroom door, with the board hanging above it, but why was he back where he started? Glancing over, the light of the vending machine where he bought water for Furuya, seemed to mock him. Making his feelings tickled with a mixture of panic and embarrassment. 

Where did he take the wrong turn earlier? He had clearly seen the symbol of the restroom board.  

Damn. Eijun was about to shout something (rude) to anyone, but he didn't want to cause trouble. There were more important issues at the moment anyway.

“... Sawamura … Eijun?” Like a firefly in the middle of the forest, the blonde hair's presence was unexpected but really helped him find his way. 

“Narumiya Mei! I have a few questions to ask first.” Mei's mouth that was about to speak immediately closed. He gave him a quizzical look from head to toe, before asking. “What?” 

“... do you … know where the restroom is!?” 

A second passed, “... Ha?” He furrowed his brow.

“You know what? There's no time, hurry up and tell me please!”  

The face that said what nonsense Eijun was talking about, five seconds later changed to an amused one. From her gaze Eijun could sense danger, but what else could he do, he couldn't take it anymore. “Ho~ You want to go to the restroom? Alright, I'll take you.” 

“You're serious?”

“Yes~” he replied casually. Which smelled even more suspicious. 

“Okay, thank you.” Other times Eijun would wonder why a Narumiya Mei would help him for nothing. However, that was for another time, whereas right now he had no time to think about anything. 

Not far from where the two met, five minutes of walking and then turning, the board he had been looking for appeared. Eijun reflexively wanted to curse again. It was just this close? So he's just embarrassing himself as usual?!

“We've arrived. Just hurry up and get in,” he grinned, clearly mocking. 

Eijun squinted at the board, with murderous intent, turning to glance at Mei for a moment, before staring at the board again. What an unlucky day. 

“ ... thanks again ....” he whispered, hurriedly entering. Eijun didn't care if Mei saw his flushed face or when he heard laughter from behind the closed door. His dignity was long gone when he asked this haughty left-handed pitcher for a favor. 

Ten minutes after he finished his business, Mei was still standing outside as if waiting for Eijun. “Are you done?” he asked, leaning against the wall with his arms folded across the chest.

“ ... yes?” Although his brain cast a spell to forget what happened earlier, under that gaze full of laughter it didn't work at all.  “What?! You want to laugh?” Without needing an answer, the blond-haired punk happily laughed out loud in front of Eijun. Making him even more annoyed (and embarrassed).

“Ha~ how foolish.” not provoking enough, he made a tear-wiping gesture, showing how satisfied he was laughing.

“What did you say?!” 

“I said you're a fool. The restroom is clearly nearby, why did you get lost?” Eijun's eyes turned into cats. “Wh-where did you know that?!” 

“Haha, are you really an idiot? It was obvious at the first glimpse I had of you.” 

“Mumumu,” The smoke in Eijun's head soared, he was about to retort before being cut off again by the left-handed pitcher. “Hey, it's my turn to ask now.” 

“What? You want to make fun of me again now?” 

“Hah! That's what I want.” The imaginary tail behind Eijun raised, furious. Mei, who didn't care, waved a hand casually. “Unfortunately, there's no time now. Even Seido must be busy looking for you already.” Sure enough, the ringtone of Haruichi's number broke their conversation for a moment. 

“ ... yes, Harucchi, I'll be back in a moment. No, you don't have to. My business just settled, so tell Mochi-senpai not to look for me. Alright, thank you.” 

Eijun hung up the call while Mei continued to watch him. “So what did you want to ask?” 

Mei was silent for a while as if thinking it over. “I remind you,” he began, ”I was just asking and not curious about you.” 

“Ha? What nonsense?” A thick wrinkle appeared on the blonde's temple.

“I heard …” he managed to ignore Eijun's outburst, “you know a kid named Kozume Kenma?” Eijun raised his eyebrows. From the tone, he felt that the southpaw was not asking but merely stating. 

Eijun became alert straight away. “How do you know?” 

“You brats don't need to know.” Mei stood up from where he was leaning against the wall, a small nod barely missing Eijun in the process. “Then you shouldn't ask him, got it? Anyway, that's it. Now I'm leaving.” Eijun was still stunned when Mei walked past him. 

“Oi-!”

“One more.” Mei turned around, “Between me and you, as fellow southpaw pitchers. Let's see who deserves the title of the best southpaw pitcher in Japan.” His cocky smirk returning, Mei looked down at Eijun, as if daring him to take his own. Even so, Eijun stared back, not even flinching from the challenge. He grinned, “Obviously it's me. Narumiya Mei, you just wait, I will take your position soon.” 

“Hah! Try to prove it. Come anytime because I'm always ready.”

For some time the two stared at each other. The wind that blew played with the two lads' hair, silently carrying their promise.  

Omake: 

One night in the dimly lit dorm, a cell phone rang from one of the rooms.

Kring... kring... kring...

The sound was loud enough to reach outside the room. The people in the next door had protested many times to the owner of the cell phone, but he deliberately kept setting the ringtone with a song that was quite annoying too. Sometimes he even enjoyed the frustrated looks on their faces.

Kring... Kring... Kring...

Really, tonight they just wanted to rest, because tomorrow there would be the opening of the games. So as soon as they heard the sound of the door opening, one of them came out. “Mei! Pick up your cell phone quickly!” Then he shut the door hard without waiting for the blonde's response. The person in question just grunted in annoyance, closing the door behind him. He dried his hair with the towel over his shoulder, approached the table, and picked up the call. 

Reading the caller's name on the screen made his forehead crease slightly. “Ho, so unusual for him?”

Kring... Krin- 

“What is it this time?” As usual he got straight to the point. For a while there was no answer. Mei glanced at the screen to check if the call was still connected. Due to the lack of calls, Mei had to admit that whatever the other person reported was quite interesting to him. Because the boy rarely shared if there was nothing that caught his attention. If he remembered correctly, the last time his cousin told Mei about the orange-haired boy he met when he visit his school. 

“If there's nothing else, I'll just end it now.” He normally had no problem waiting, but right now Mei was getting too tired and starting tomorrow they would be entering an important time. So Mei wanted to focus without any distractions. 

“... Mei.” Geez. Finally! this brat made a sound. “ Yeah, Ken-ken.” He replied. “What do you want to talk about? Hurry up if you can because I want to rest now.” 

Once again, for a while, the other person only made a small sound as if listening. Hahh~ Mei's patience quota was running thin now and he didn't want to wake up tomorrow morning with a headache just for this. 

“You said you went to Inashiro High School, right?”

“Yeah. Don't tell me you forgot?!” 

“... no. ” 

“Seriously?! you're always like that, Ken-ken. You won't pay attention if nothing catches your eye.” He continued. “Whatever, what does that have to do with it anyway?” 

“Well, then you know Seido, right?” Seido? Did he meet someone from there? “Yeah.“ Mei is too lazy to explain further, after all, this punk already knows. 

“Then do you know a kid named Sawamura Eijun?” Woah, he paused, staring at the screen. His cousin is bothered to memorize someone else's full name? What's so interesting about that brat? 

“... well, I remember he played in the Kanto tournament back in the day. Even if it was just once? He's that southpaw pitcher, right? Whatever, I don't really care about him.”

Mei heard an affirmative voice, before his cousin spoke again, “What do you think of him?”

Well, this was really surprising. Mei could understand why he was interested in the orange-haired boy-whose name he forgot-because they were both volleyball players. However, being attracted to Sawa-what was it? There must be something wrong with his cousin's head. “Why are you curious? I told you that I don't care much about him anyway, so I never considered him to exist. Besides, he must be a naive first-year student. So there's obviously not much information out there.”

“I see.”   Mei knew very well that his cousin's interest had faded. And so, without further ado, he ended the call. “Alright, see you later, then.”

Beep. 

Then, it got quiet in the room.

Mei was so stunned that he stared at the blackened screen for several minutes. As soon as he realized it, the veins in his temples threatened to burst. “What's wrong with this kid?! Oi! Kozume Kenma!”

“Mei! Shut your mouth!!!” 

- To Be Continued -

Chapter Text

chapter 6: Bitter sweetness, just like an orange

“Sawamura, congratulations on getting a number.” 

“Thank you, Hiroshi-senpai! It's all thanks to you.” Eijun received a bottle of orange ramune from Hiroshi, and now both of them were sitting on the bench next to the vending machine outside. Eijun opened the lid of the bottle in time with the loud screeching of the coffee can from his side, slowly the sweet and fresh taste of his ramune soaked his dry throat. 

Under the moonlight, he rubbed his clammy face, then leaned deeper into his seat. Eijun smoothed his hair as the wind played with it, listening to the song of the insects with the tapes of memories that began to be playing in his head. 

It didn't feel like his first meeting with Hiroshi had long passed and here, in this place too, he strengthened his relationship with his savior. The savior he had come to rely on when things got tough. The first savior and the same savior who advised him to make up with Chris, his second savior. 

It was all thanks to Hiroshi and Eijun was truly grateful to get to meet him.

It is now one of their secret spots when they want to talk casually instead of seriously. There is a special place where they talk about serious things on their own but at times their conversations while in this place can become too serious to bother changing places. So you could say that this place was his sanctuary in Seido or as long as Hiroshi was there, it was his sanctuary.

Sure, sometimes Eijun still wasn't sure why they had to meet in private, but ... it didn't matter. As long as Eijun could still reach out to him.  

“ ... this is for your sake Sawamura, so that you can tell me without anyone interrupting.”  Yes, everything Hiroshi said was for his own good. Eijun always reminded himself over and over again. 

Striking against the blurry background, the falling leaves caught his attention.  

An image of that time flashed through Eijun's mind. He remembered that night was also quite warm like now. If he was not mistaken. It was possible that he was mixing up his memories with the happy feelings of that time or perhaps he was confusing himself with the swallowed feeling that welled up in his chest that same night.  

For the last part Eijun ... didn't want to dwell on it. 

The green leaves he played with mindlessly while the quiet atmosphere around him was making Eijun think of many things. Good memories, delightful. Bad memories, heartache.

Like that night. A night like any other night. Eijun, who was still unfamiliar with Seido's culture, wanted to quickly adapt to them. One of them, starting with the night practice he always saw, had changed his worldview. Here he was not alone in his love for baseball. Here, everyone competes with a passion that blinds the eyes. 

Here, the naive Eijun learns quickly what it means to be ruthless. 

He who initially just wanted to play baseball had to realize the harsh reality that not everyone gets the same opportunities. It was all so new to him, it gave him a cold feeling in contrast to the warm feeling Akagi gave him. 

Not to mention Eijun had to participate in running when he still couldn't walk properly. The race for position turned out to be scarier than people said. 

Yet, it didn't matter to him. Eijun was not one to give up easily. He loved a challenge and that passion was the fuel for it. 

Oh, his wonderfully foolish mind. 

West Maimon vs Seido

“We will now begin the second round of the Tokyo West qualifier between Seido High School and West Maimon High School.” 

The cheers of the supporters surrounded the two teams, facing off in the center of the field, they bowed in unison, “Let's play well.” Before returning to their respective dugouts. 

“Kuramochi.” A low, heavy, authoritative voice rang out clearly amidst the crowded dugouts. Instantly all the noise stopped, everyone held their breath, watching as the summoned one stiffened, the bat in his hand gripped firmly. 

With steady steps, Kuramochi stopped in front of the man. “I entrust it to you.” Kataoka said without even looking at him, his gaze still straight ahead. That confidence was not shown for Kuramochi alone, for anyone on the Seido team, as a coach, Kataoka always trusted them. 

Kuramochi nodded with a shaky breath. For the sake of that trust he would not waste the opportunity given to him. 

He would prove that he belonged on this team.

The night before the match, the Seido team gathered in the cafeteria to discuss the information on the West Maimon team that Chris and the other third years had gathered. 

“Thank you for the explanation. You boys have worked hard.” Chris and the others nodded, retreating in acknowledgment. Kataoka faced his players with his back straight. Pride welled up in him as he saw the fire in his students' spirits. He knew they would succeed this time. “The opponents are coming with momentum after a win. We must not underestimate them.” He continued, “Whoever our opponent is, play your best! That way, we can achieve victory.” 

“Yes, sir.” Everyone said in unison. 

Leaving the cafeteria, Kuramochi's head bowed. It had been a week since he had practiced without the others, secretly practicing alone behind the school building or a quiet place away from his peers.  

He believed Kantoku needed him, but not hearing anything from the man until now still made him uneasy. 

“To Furuya and Kuramochi, please stay.” Miyuki gave him a knowing smile, he pulled Kuramochi who was still silent at the door. 

“Mochi-senpai, good luck.” Eijun offered encouragement, waving to him wistfully.   

Standing directly in front of the man, Kuramochi was left wondering. If he could hope, tonight he might get some good news. 

Silently watching every move of the man's expression in front of him, Kuramochi actually did not really hear what Kantoku said to Furuya before that heavy gaze met him. Nearly two years in Seido, he was still not used to receiving that intense look. “Kuramochi, I expect by now you have learned the lesson of your mistake and I will not ask you about it again. Only one thing I want to know. Are you capable of returning to the game tomorrow?” 

Kuramochi loudly wanted to answer, 'Yes!' Yet, he restrained himself. 

Kantoku's challenge implied that this was the opportunity he had been waiting for and would he be able to fulfill it? Would he not disappoint him again like before?

With his fists clenched, Kuramochi took a breath, looking back at Kantoku with firm, unwavering determination. “I beg you Kantoku. Give me one chance, again.” He bowed, waiting and waiting. 

After a tension-filled silence, Kataoka finally spoke. “I entrust the opening attack to you.” 

“Thank you, Kantoku!”

“Oh? They're not playing their Ace?” The grin on Kuramochi's face looked even more sinister after hearing Kataoka's words that ignited his spirit. West Maimon, are they underestimating Seido? Or is there another plan ....

“But you can definitely hit his pitch, can't you Mochi-senpai?” Eijun went over to him, handing him a helmet. The first match for Seido opened with them attacking first while Maimon would defend. 

“Brat. Who do you think I am? Just sit comfortably in the dugout and watch your senpai in action.”

The laughter next to them caught both of their attention. “Don't let your guard down, Mochi~ If you get a strikeout, then I won't be able to help you by hiding your flushed face.” 

“Who let their guard down? Besides, since when have you ever helped me?!” Kuramochi pointed the bat at Miyuki who was still laughing. “Hahahahaha.” 

So as to avoid any bloodshed in the first match, Eijun hurriedly pushed Kuramochi out of the dugout, not forgetting his cheer. “Give them a kick in the ass, Mochi-senpai! If you fail, buy me an ice cream!” 

“Why should I?!” he grumbled, but the smile on his face couldn't lie to Eijun. For the umpteenth time he took another breath. As much as he didn't want to admit it, thanks to the two of them, his nerves were slightly eased from his body.

Right now Kuramochi's sharp eyes shifted, assessing the number 10 pitcher before him. Based on what he noticed, his pitch wasn't too fast and it was no coincidence that they had just put up this pitcher against them. 

Taking a few swings, Kuramochi stood up, setting up in the batter's box for the left hand, bat raised steadily. Well, whatever it was, he would find out what they were planning. Because that was his job as a leadoff player. 

“Play ball!” 

The catcher signaled to the pitcher while Kuramochi focused his attention on the ball coming towards him. For the first pitch Kuramochi simply watched and judged the path of the pitch. Indeed, as expected. The pitch was so slow it almost made him swing earlier. 

“Strike.” 

Kuramochi blew out a breath. Calm down. Don't get carried away with their game. Let Ryo-san and the others see more of this pitcher's ability. 

“Strike two!” 

In the face of a pitcher with unknown information Kuramochi didn't flinch. The pitcher made another windup and this time Kuramochi tried to hit it. The ball bounced off the field. 

“Foul!” 

That was close. Out of the corner of his eye he could see the contorted face of the opposing catcher. He refocused all his concentration on the pitcher ignoring the whispers of the crowd.

“Mochi-senpai! Smash the ball!” Kuramochi snorted, 'I got it!' 

On the fourth pitch in spite of not being perfect, Kuramochi managed to hit the ball between 2nd base and 3rd base. And with that small gap, it was enough for Kuramochi to run to 1st base safely. 

“Safe!”

“Chee-senpai! This is Seido's cheetah everyone! His name is Kuramochi Yoichi.” Kuramochi reminded himself to teach this brat a lesson later after they won, just for now he brushed it off, choosing to look at Kataoka who was nodding contentedly in the dugout. 

And with that he had to admit he could only really breathe a huge sigh of relief to himself now. The heaviness that had been on his shoulders since that day was finally lifted. 

“Hm~” The little hum from Ryosuke seemed to remind him that the match had just started. '’Let's not let our guard down, okay.’

With a slight nod, Kuramochi waited for Ryosuke to stand in the batter's box. Not even waiting for the bat to make contact with the ball and before hearing the umpire's voice, Kuramochi had slid to touch 2nd base in no time. 

“Foul.”

“Safe!” 

The crowd roared again, deafening. By this, Kuramochi, as Seido's representative, declared that Seido would take the first point without mercy.

- 🃁 -

“Harucchi! Will you accompany me to play catch?” 

“It seems like you won't be playing, Eijun-kun.” Haruichi checked the scoreboard, 6-0. Seido was still leading in this third inning. 

Eijun knew, he glanced at Kantoku. That he might not be used this time.

“Unlike Furuya, Kantoku would not play you that easily.”

Eijun smiled at Haruichi. “There's no harm in being prepared, right?” Eijun gently rolled his left shoulder. “Come on, Harucchi.” Haruichi was a little flustered, asking for Chris's approval. 

“Go with what he wants. It'll reduce his restlessness.” Nor did Kataoka forbid it, Chris hinted. Haruichi took his gloves, chasing after Eijun, “Eijun-kun, wait.”

Clang. 

In the bullpen during the throwing session, instead of focusing, Eijun was more eager to cheer loudly. Nevermind Haruichi who ended up cheering along, making Miyauchi snort in irritation. “ Everybody, this is our Silent Killer Seido, Shirasu-senpai! Senpai you're so cool!!!” With Shirasu's hit deep into the right fielder's defense, Seido's score became 10-0 now.  

“Home Run!” Then in the top of the fourth inning, Tetsu hit a home run and brought Ryosuke and Jun back. This crushed the spirit of the West Maimon players even more. Seido earned 3 points at once, it becomes a harsh reality that their chances of winning are completely gone now.

As Eijun knew his chances of being played were dwindling as well. 

Deep down Eijun really felt proud. He had always known his senpai were great, but when he witnessed their ability to shine on that stage again. They seemed to be telling him to never even think about forgetting it. 

Blow after blow. The excitement when the opposing batter couldn't hit the ball. And the shouts of support to the pitcher on the mound. 

“One Out!”

Each and every cell in his body screamed to stand on that mound. As every inch of his body twitched, he wanted to run, and monopolize the mound all by himself. 

“Two Out.”

And his heart's desire to help the guys who had shown him what baseball was all about. 

“Strike Out! Change sides!” 

Eijun held out water to Furuya after his turn to bat. One look and anyone would see that Furuya looked exhausted. It was still only the fourth inning. The damp clothes proved that fact. 

Still, as was tradition, Eijun purposefully fought to pull his focus back. “If you're not up to it. Let me replace you!” 

“No need. I'll finish this inning myself,” he said quietly and accepted the glove from Haruichi before returning to the field followed by the others. 

“See if they can hit your pitches. Furuya, do you hear me?! I'll replace you right away!” After Tetsu's home run, Haruichi decided they should end the throwing session, and Eijun had nothing to complain about. "Sawamura, you can sit next to me.” Chris patted the space next to him before settling down to watch the game again. Perhaps this was his way of calming Eijun down. Without saying a word, Eijun sat down, glancing at the scorebook in Chris' hand for a moment. Furuya had thrown as many as 70. Quite alarming considering many of his pitches were still high and the number of balls.  

The corner of his eye silently seized Kataoka's sturdy back.  

“Furuya, you'll be the starting pitcher tomorrow.” That night Kataoka's eyes were only on Furuya. He had asked if he would play, but the man's answer lacked conviction. 

“This tournament is your chance. If you don't earn the team's trust soon, then it will be impossible for you to become an Ace in the future.”

The corner of Eijun's mouth twitched. Now that they had entered the bottom of the fifth inning, it was Seido's turn to defend. The score was now 17-0 with Miyuki's shutout.  

Only now there was really no room for him to get down today. After this inning had passed, the game would be declared over.

A call from the field caught Eijun's attention. The supporters in the stands were busy cheering for both teams. See? This happened thanks to Seido scoring points and defending them. Looks like Seido is declaring that the curse of “Seido has no ace” has passed. With Furuya, a promising ace candidate, Seido's future can be looked forward to. 

“If you let Furuya shine more than you, you will become useless Sawamura. Because you won't get an ace number.”

Perhaps, this was what made Eijun anxious. 

Because the person defending Seido's point from being conceded was not Eijun. There, on the mound standing up was not him.  

“Furuya! Your throw is as fiery as ever!” 

“Give us more of your bazooka throws, Furuya!”

“We're counting on you!”

Then Eijun wondered if he was the one standing there, would he get such cheers? 

“Sawamura! Stay focused!”

“Do you want me to hit you to calm you down?”

“Hey, Sawamura! Don't embarrass us, get it?” 

“Why are you so surprised? After all, isn't that exactly all you deserve?”

Eijun scowled. He got to his feet, rooting for Furuya at the fence with his loud voice. It parched his throat, but he cheered anyway, as he hoped this shout would drown out the whispers. “Furuya! Stay focused!” 

So Eijun felt like the worst human being ever. He knew he was not supposed to have this awful, disgusting feeling. He was supposed to be delighted that his rival could shine, because Furuya was also his precious friend. 

But why?  

Whereas even Eijun knew he had plenty of chances to prove himself later. 

“Are you sure? Will you be able to get it before Chris-senpai graduates?”

The harsher the whisper the louder Eijun urged Furuya on. With his domineering and ruthless attacks Furuya was truly like a giant on the mound. 

… in the end, Eijun had to admit it.

“Strike! Batter Out!” In the fifth inning with the score at 17 - 0, Furuya brought the first win for Seido. There was praise for him from everyone, Kuramochi gave him a punch in the back, Ryosuke cut off the head with a gentle chop, and Jun locked Furuya's head and ruffled his hair in excitement. 

Even from this far away, Eijun can clearly tell. The trust and hope he so desperately wanted. Snatched in front of his own eyes. 

A first victory. A sign of good fortune and blessing for Seido. Now, Seido was truly declaring that they were ready for war, no matter who stood in their way. 

Alas, it was not Eijun who brought that blessing to Seido. 

Lost in his surroundings, Eijun unconsciously gripped the fence with too much force to the point that his knuckles turned white. Still with his eyes fixed on the mound.

“Sawamura, let's line up.” Chris patted him on the shoulder, as he gently removed Eijun's hands from the fence. He squeezed the hand for a moment, trying to focus Eijun's attention on him. “Sawamura?” 

Without missing a beat, Eijun blinked a few times, looking at Chris in confusion for a moment before looking around. The dugout was getting quieter, the players had started lining up on the field.    

“Ah, Chris-senpai.” Chris nodded, acknowledging Eijun's words. His every action was full of tenderness, which somehow gave his heart a fuzzy warm feeling. Eijun glanced again at the field, his consciousness completely returning when he saw that Kataoka was waiting not far from the dugout. Looking up at him. “Chris-senpai, looks like we need to line up.” 

“Yes.” Chris let go of Eijun's hand and instead wrapped his arm around his shoulders for a moment, as if in support. Eijun wondered, as to why Chris-senpai was acting this way? 

Among the Seido line, Kuramochi gave him a worried glance that was only met with a light smile from Eijun. 'It was nothing.'

“Please line up properly.” 

Amidst the cheers of Seido's supporters, the members of the West Maimon team burst into tears, the stark contrast leaving Eijun speechless for a moment. “Bow!” 

“Thank you for the game!” 

Then regretfully and sincerely they shook the Seido team's hands one by one. Giving them support that Eijun least expected. “Give it your best shot, all of you.”

“You can definitely advance to Koshien!”

“We won't regret losing like this.”

Seeing all this he remembered the moment his team lost. “Ei-chan. You, us, have fought! Don't blame yourself!” 

“Hey, you too, first year.” His reverie broken, a hand filled his vision. He looked up with wide eyes.

“Keep up the fight.”

The losing team... cheering for the winning team? Eijun longingly observed the hand, still in disbelief, he looked again at the face of the boy who smiled patiently at him. 

'We stand with you.' Without a doubt, Eijun felt like he was slapped. 

... of course. They also wanted to go to the National, just like them.

With both hands, Eijun shook his hand resolutely,hoping to convey the message he wanted to express. Then he loudly exclaimed. “We will! We will carry your dreams together. Wait for us in Koshien!” The boy returned with a gentle smile, unaware that a tear had fallen from his eye. 

Eijun vowed that he would not let the dreams of Seido, his senpai, and the dreams of the opponents defeated by Seido end here.

- 🃁 -

On the 20th of July, Seido played East Murata, and Eijun once again did not play. Chris explained to him that it was likely that Eijun would play in the next match. And for that Eijun would have to rest, save his strength. When he heard that, his spirits returned, and his face lit up. A secret weapon! Maybe that's the meaning behind what Chris actually said. Granted, there might still be a sense of unease in his heart, but he would focus his attention on becoming Seido's true secret weapon! 

With that feeling of lightness returned. Eijun continued to encourage Furuya and the other Senpai until the third inning when Furuya was replaced by Kawakami. As much as possible, they saved Furuya's energy for the next game. Tetsu's home run to end the fifth inning gave Seido a 10-0 victory. 

A smooth second win for Seido. 

“It's good that everyone is here. After you finish stretching, make sure you grab lunch in the stands.” 

“Yes, sir!” 

Taking a seat in the shade, Seido watched to see which team would be their next opponent. Team Akikawa, especially You Shunshin, caught their attention. As Chris explained, it seemed that the most predicted opponent would be the team with the Ace from Taiwan. “Look at Akikawa pitcher, he has what you don't have, Furuya. And who can be your guide, Sawamura.” Miyuki explained, pointing. “That is control.” 

“... control,” Furuya muttered.

“Right, control.” Eijun also nodded in agreement. Eijun realized his control still lacked sharpness and he would gladly learn from his enemy. That way he could become Seido's secret weapon, right? 

“Akikawa is a defensive type of team. Their team is centered on You Shunshin, their ace. Or many would say Akikawa is a one man team.” Chris added, noting the new information in his notebook.

Miyuki made a snide comment, “Huh, it must be hard being the only person who bears the entire burden of the team.” No offense, Miyuki just felt sympathetic. There was a huge difference between the ace's ability and the other players. Their individual defense skills were on par with amateurs and Shunshin must be feeling a lot of pressure because of it.  

“Miyuki Kazuya, don't be so rude.” Miyuki raised an eyebrow. “Why? Am I wrong?” 

“ ... not like that,” Eijun grumbled. “On the field sometimes, the little favors that people consider insignificant become the biggest contributions to push you to do your best.” Eijun remembered his friends in Nagano. “Gaining complete trust in return can ease the burden, because we're sure our backs will be guarded wholeheartedly by the others.” 

Eijun looked back at the field, “You Shunshin must feel the same way. Hence later, he will surely be stubborn about not letting us score.” 

“Sawamura~ that was a brave thing to say.” Ryosuke gave him a sweet smile which gave him goosebumps instead. Since when did the others hear it? “Eh?! Ryosuke-senpai?” 

“You think we're going to lose to him?” Jun as well as Kuramochi growled. Eijun shrank further in place. “Uh, that's not what I meant.” 

“Ho~ I just remembered. As the one man team himself, you really know how to encourage the team.” 

“Hot ...” while Furuya was just talking to himself, it could still irritate Eijun aomehow.  

“Miyuki Kazuya, are you insinuating to me!? Hey! Furuya hang in there!” Miyuki laughed while Chris, who was watching, was amused. 'Perhaps, their match against Akikawa will be one of the important parts of Sawamura's life,' Chris thought. 

The end of the match was as expected, in the 9th inning Akikawa was declared victorious with a final score of 3-0. “The opposing team could only give him five hits.” Tetsu commented, “After Akikawa scored three early scores, the mood of the team changed, Sawamura's words were true, all the players believed in You Shunshin.” 

Both teams lined up on the field, Seido also decided to return to the bus. “Our next opponent is unlikely to be easy.” 

As Seido headed out of the stadium, Eijun once again glanced at Shunshin who was talking to his catcher. The number 1 on his back again reminded him of Akagi. 

Trust. 

One man team. 

Ace.  

It seemed that in this match fate wanted to show him something.

Eijun gulped back the orange ramune that was half left. 

It was actually not uncommon for the two of them to just spend time in each other's company like this. And right now Eijun was starting to like the silence between them. 

The moon shone down on them again. The leaf in Eijun's hand flew away in the wind somewhere. 

At his side Hiroshi put the coffee can on the bench, picked up the bat that was lying around, began to continue swinging not far from Eijun. Eijun was also getting used to accompanying his senpai to practice. Ever since they first met, Hiroshi would suggest ways for Eijun to improve. Suggestions about baseball as well as suggestions for him to be liked by his team. 

Hiroshi was the first person to help him before he met Chris and Eijun was always grateful for his kindness. 

This particular evening their only activity was to practice swinging as usual elsewhere before deciding to take a short break, buying a drink at the vending machine. 

Yet another time Eijun wiped his face. The wind that hit his face was getting colder by the second. However, tomorrow was their first match against West Maimon, and Eijun wanted to ease these nerves before going to bed. 

So he picked up his bat, stood not far from his senpai and started swinging. 

He remembered. Just like tonight, back then he was also practicing. But unlike now, that time he had just returned from a night run. 

A night that still left its mark on him.

A night that tasted bitter sweet just like his favorite orange ramune.

Oh, his wonderfully foolish mind

Apparently Seido was not done teaching him. The greedy taste that he thought was familiar was much more terrifying and frightening to him who had just come out of the small town. The ambitious eyes, the strict discipline, and the seniority, all swallowed him whole, leaving him trapped and suffocated. 

Much like any other night, Eijun walked lightly after his night run. He chose to go around the building instead of straight to his room just to get some fresh air. His footsteps were light because he had played today! Sure, it was only one inning before being replaced by Nori-senpai But that's okay! Sawamura Eijun's real debut will be even more spectacular, Eijun will make sure of it! 

That being said, now his excitement was palpable, making him fidget with anticipation.

Right before approaching the vending machine under the moonlight, Eijun's steps came to a halt, the grin that had been expanding ever since dying away in an instant. As per usual he was hiding behind the wall listening to the whole conversation. 

“Shit! Why does it have to be first years who get into first string?!” Jurou threw the can in annoyance. “Not even one of the 3rd year students?! Ridiculous, Kantoku really made a big mistake.” 

“Right, even though we have shown our hard work. Just because Seido is in desperate need of a pitcher, they put in an inexperienced first-year? Then immediately debut in Kanto?” Satoshi waved lazily, “Seido's future is in danger.” 

Hideo chimed in, “It's frustrating that they have no respect for their seniors either. Do you remember the article that talked about Furuya's debut in Kanto? Everyone kept talking about it, but you saw his attitude? He wasn't affected at all as if it was a natural thing. How arrogant!”

Jurou put money into the vending machine once again, pressed two buttons, took out a can of soda and a can of coffee. He gave the coffee can away before opening his soda can. One sip of the drink down, he squeezed until the can was crumpled then threw it into the trash. Yet again, the can fell near the previous one, on the ground, never making it into the bin. As if mocking, it infuriated him even more.  

“Miyuki, Furuya, Sawamura! They all really make me sick!” He spat to the side, the piercing in his ear reflecting the light, drawing Eijun's attention. Jurou took out a cigarette from his pocket, he distributed it to the others but only one refused. 

The tip of the cigarette was burning, he inhaled deeply with the smoke blurring the moonlight. Then he exhaled. “With those two positions filled there is now only one left. Among the third-year students only Chris has a chance, his condition is also getting better.” 

“I doubt it. Even though Chris caught Sawamura's throw in the practice match back then, his condition is by no means perfect.” Eijun clenched his fists, 'Chris-senpai.' He always wished Chris would come back because he really wanted to be his battery partner. 

“Unfortunately that match will most likely be the first match, while he's doing therapy, at the same time his last in high school.” Satoshi took a drag on his cigarette, “You realize? In fact, it was because of catching Sawamura's throw that time that his recovery was hindered. Kantoku definitely wouldn't put him in the first string because of that.”

“Truly an absolute son of a bitch! A cursed child indeed!” Hideo chimed in. “It's better for him to leave Seido so his jinx doesn't spread further.” 

“Right.”  

‘Chris-senpai …?’

... It took Eijun's breath away. His hands pressed against the wall, leaning back, to keep himself balanced. Already his throat felt dry with the pit of his stomach demanding to be emptied out. The dark feeling churning in his mind made the strength in his legs weaken even more. 

Chris-senpai? Cause of him?

It was getting used to Eijun hearing him insulted, it had become a daily meal for him here. However, hearing that he was the cause of Chris' hindered recovery? Never.Even.In.His.Dreams. 

He clasped his mouth with both hands, trying hard to hold back the nausea that was starting to rise and the trembling throughout his body. Nonetheless, sobs repeatedly slipped from his trembling lips. 

“A cursed child indeed!” 

'No! You're wrong! I wasn't a cursed child!

“They're right. You'd better leave so that your jinx doesn't spread further.” 

'I'm not ...! Believe me! Really ... I'm not-'

“What are you guys doing here? Past curfew?” Eijun blinked, dispelling the tears that blurred his vision.

That voice... The voice that always calmed him down. Someone who supported him from the beginning-  

“Hiroshi.” The three immediately threw away their cigarettes, stepping on them to extinguish the flame. Hiroshi made no comment with that. Was he oblivious? Or did he- 

“Now you guys go back before Kantoku finds you.” without much protest. The three hurriedly left, leaving their discarded cans carelessly. 

“How much trouble is it to put the trash in the right place?” He took a soda can and an isotonic bottle. For a moment, he shook the coffee can that was on the bench, “That's too bad, though there's still half of it left.” He finally sat down on the bench after throwing away the can and bottle leaving the coffee can behind. 

He drank it slowly, leaning against the wall. To Eijun, the way Hiroshi played with the leaves that fell into his hair looked like a work of art. There was something mesmerizing about watching him. A picturesque painting that accentuated the tranquility of the world around him. One that seemed majestic but turned out to be fragile and plain.  

... his savior. 

Eijun slowly moved away from the wall. He had to go back or Kuramochi would panic looking for him. Turning around, Eijun took a step before the ringing of the phone startled him. 

“Who is it?” Damn, he certainly wasn't the only one surprised. With trembling hands Eijun turned off the call instead hurriedly texting that he would be back soon. The sound of footsteps getting closer made his heart beat fast. He had to get out of here, he had to! 

Instead, his feet remained firmly planted on the ground. Eijun didn't understand why either. Was it because that person was Hiroshi? Did he want to hear the reassurance from his calm voice?

Or did he want to latch onto his words again, as he had begun to do so often lately? 

Perhaps-

“Sawamura?” Eijun looked up, his hands had stopped swinging and he only just realized Hiroshi had his arm around his shoulders. “What's wrong? You've been silent since before, not swinging your bat.” 

Eijun smiled subtly, smoothly replying. “Nothing at all, Senpai! I might have just been too agitated. Well, tomorrow is the official match I'm participating in at the high school. Not sure if I'll be playing, though.” 

He looked at him carefully, his eyes searching for a lie that Eijun was trying to cover up. But as expected, Hiroshi didn't comment. He knew Eijun didn't want to talk about it, Eijun was sure. “Now that we've finished practicing, it's getting late. Don't let Kuramochi know you haven't returned and find you with me.”

Eijun nodded. He had almost forgotten to keep this meeting a secret from the others. “Alright, Senpai, I'll be back. Senpai should return too, lest Kantoku find you like that night.” Hiroshi chuckled, he patted Eijun's shoulder twice before sitting down, shaking the coffee can with half the contents left. “After finishing this?” 

Eijun giggled, “Then so do I.” He sat back down beside Hiroshi, secretly huffing. 

Now is not the time to be down, Eijun reminded himself. Seido will be playing their first game tomorrow and he needs to be ready. Even if Furuya was the starting pitcher, there was no harm in him being prepared, right? 

“Let's cheer.” Eijun held out his orange bottle of ramune, Hiroshi smiled, holding out his coffee can as well. “Cheers to tomorrow's game and to you."

"Cheers."

Tuk.  

With somewhat trembling hands he brought the bottle of orange ramune to his own mouth. Devouring it in one gulp, he let the sweet taste wash away the bitterness swirling in his stomach. “Thank you again, Hiroshi senpai.”

- To Be Continued -

Chapter Text

Chapter 7: I promise you, over and over (again): One Man Team 

“Ei-chan. Why are you here?" Without waiting for an answer Wakana moved to sit next to Eijun. After school the alarm in Wakana's head warned her that something was wrong with her best friend. And when she asked where Eijun was, Aunt Emi said Eijun had gone to bring his training equipment. Yet they were off practicing today.  

Clearly, something must be bothering him right now.

In the middle of the field where they used to practice baseball, the two seemed to be in no hurry, content to enjoy each other's presence that felt like home. Warm and welcoming. 

The constant whistling breeze played with their hair. Wakana glanced at Eijun curiously, ignoring the shivering all over her body. She hummed softly, playing a song from their childhood, waiting for Eijun to return to reality.

“Ei, is there anything you want to tell me?” Wakana softly asked again. There was curiosity in her tone, but she was more concerned about her best friend's feelings. A hint of wistfulness and melancholy appeared on Eijun adorable face.

“Hm.” Eijun didn't give her a glance, but Wakana knew he was listening. “I'm not pleased.” 

She frowned. “About what?” 

“This.” A magazine that had the whole class buzzing this morning. They were overjoyed to see Eijun's face proudly displayed there. Sure, it was only in a small corner, sure, it was just a passing glance, but to all of them Eijun really made them proud. 

If only they could make it to the finals, maybe Eijun's photo would be on the front cover of the magazine. Smiling broadly with his trademark sweet and warm smile. And everyone could know who Sawamura Eijun was. Who was the best Ace Japan could have.

What Eijun's future would be like, Wakana had imagined many times.

Wakana turned back to the magazine in her hand, a look of wonder evident in her soft voice. “What makes you unhappy about this? You don't like your face in the magazine?” 

Eijun snorted, but the corners of his mouth twitched slightly. “Well, the photos they took were pretty good.” 

“Of course. If they take a bad picture of you, I'll go directly to them. One by one .” The sight of Wakana's raised clenched fist made Eijun laugh. Wakana smiled, her heart warming at the sight. 

“Hey, you don't even know where they live.”

“I can go to their workplace.” Wakana pointed to the address of the building in the magazine. “From there I can threaten them to tell me. Then later-”

“Oi, oi. Don't do that!” Eijun was seriously panicking at the thought. It was unlikely, but it was possible that Wakana was secretly planning that. 

“Ahaha, Ei-chan I would never do that.” The two laughed, releasing the tension under the starry night sky.

For a moment they again enjoyed the silence between them. “Am I too arrogant?” Eijun asked suddenly, Wakana looked at him disapprovingly. “What does that mean? Then who said that?”

Instead of answering, Eijun lay down on the ground, resting both hands behind his head. “Nothing. I was just thinking ...” his hand pointed at the magazine on Wakana's lap, ”They say Akagi Junior High baseball is a one man team . I don't like hearing that, it's like they don't value all your effort and hard work."

It was then that Wakana understood what Eijun was upset about. She lay down on his side and turned her head, looking at Eijun. “Ei.” She called softly. Eijun only hummed to indicate he was listening. “Ei, look at me.” Sometimes Wakana still felt lost when receiving the full attention of those luminous golden eyes. Eijun raised an eyebrow. “What?”

“You want me to tell the truth?” Eijun hesitated for a moment before nodding. 

“I don't think the magazine was wrong. Akagi wouldn't have made it to round three if it weren't for you. You're our ace and captain, Ei.” Wakana added, “as well as a coach, even though your explanations are sometimes hard to understand and your knowledge is limited. You're still the heart of Akagi baseball." Eijun wanted to protest, but Wakana's intense look stopped him in his tracks.

“So it's not wrong if the magazine or people out there call our team a one man team. Because that's the fact. Instead, we're proud of that fact. Because people know the greatness of Sawamura Eijun!” Wakana reached out into the sky, as if reaching for the moon, she clenched her hand into a fist, looking back at Eijun.

“That's the least we can give you. That fame. You're not arrogant, Ei. You've never been an arrogant person. Look how upset you are right now over that magazine." Wakana sat back down, smoothing her messy hair. “In fact, you should be proud, Ei. At least bragging about your accomplishments is better than a lot of talk for nothing.” She grinned. “Now, come on, let's go back. Eitoku-san will definitely scold you later.”

Wakana reached out to Eijun who was still lying down.

Talking to Wakana about this was indeed the best choice. He didn't know what he wanted to hear from his best friend, but his feelings always warmed up after they talked.

Eijun grinned as well, welcoming the hand.

July 23rd 

Seido vs Akikawa

The raucous voices of the fans could be heard all the way outside the stadium. All the Seido players enthusiastically gathered around, listening to Kataoka's instructions. Just three more matches after this and they would set foot in that sacred place. 

“We'll play according to what we discussed. Don't forget to synchronize the sign.” 

“Yes, sir!” 

“Stay hydrated.” He continued. “The rest of the team will support the players on the field.” 

“Furuya you will play at the start. Kawakami and Sawamura. You two be prepared to perform at any time!”

Eijun and Kawakami answered in unison, “Yes, sir!”  

- 🃁 -

The night before, when he did his night training. Under the lamplight that still flickered on, Eijun with a fire of enthusiasm still burning, pitched to Chris's mit. Kanemaru as batter stood in the left batter's box. Unknown to the trio, Kataoka had approached them. “Practice throwing inside against left-handed batters .... Were you practicing this to prepare against Akikawa's players?” 

“Sho-shogun!” Eijun reflexively called out.

A frown appeared on Kataoka's forehead. “Who are you calling Shogun?” Kataoka turned to Chris, reprimanding him, “Isn't it too late to practice, Chris?” Eijun flinched slightly.

“I'm sorry.” An apologetic smile on Chris' face

“Don't push yourself.” Kataoka added. Eijun got a little nervous hearing that. His Shisho didn't push himself again, did he? Let alone for him? The sight of Chris's gentle smile, as if recognizing his worries, made him recall, “I'm happy to catch for you, Sawamura. Remember that.”  

The corners of his mouth turned up, relief and elation pouring out of him. “Thank you Shisho. I'm always happy to pitch to you, too. All the time.” 

Ever since then, Eijun had been truly delighted that Chris had such high regard for his abilities. Of himself. Yeah, that's right. Eijun would never forget. That's why he needed to stop being pathetic in front of Chris.

The intense gaze of Kataoka did not leave Eijun, prompting him to gulp coarsely. As he rolled up his sleeves, Kataoka asked for Kanemaru's bat and helmet. “Hold on, coach,” said Kanemaru by reflex.

Already standing in the left batter's box, Kataoka held up the bat, challenging Eijun. “Show me your inside throw, Sawamura.”    

His pulse rate began to increase. Was this his chance? A serious-faced Kataoka had absolutely no intention of being merciful. It gave Eijun goosebumps. “Begin!” 

Up there on the mound, Eijun's phantom tail was wagging, clearly pleased, despite the uncertain look on his face. Chris nodded at Eijun to reassure him as he positioned his gloves in the right place. 'Kantoku did plan for Sawamura's debut now, but perhaps he needs to see the determination in Eijun once again', smirked Chris.   

“What? Afraid? You lack faith in your throw?” Kanemaru watched with tension on the sidelines, the pressure Kataoka was putting on was too high and he doubted Eijun would be able to keep his cool throwing as usual. Still, if Eijun wasn't pitching under this kind of pressure ... 

Grip on Kataoka's bat tightened. Amidst the shock and anticipation, Kanemaru shuddered at the golden eyes along with the grin that shone in the moonlight, on top of the mound. 

“Huh? Sawamura's name was mentioned too, right?? Is it finally here?” Kuramochi secretly felt happy for the southpaw. “Something must have happened the night before. I wonder why that boy seemed over the moon when I came back." he huffed, a proud smile appeared on his face.

Quietly Miyuki eyed him with wonder. 'Exactly how did you find out?' 

The cheers of the Seido fans could be heard all the way to the field as they warmed up. Lots of reporters came to cover, eager to catch the juicy headlines, especially from Seido's promising new pitcher, Furuya.

“Furuya!” 

“Roar on the mound’ Furuya!”

“First inning, starting with Akikawa High School's turn to bat, Number 1, center fielder, Ninomiya-kun.” 

Eijun paid close attention to the batter, who wore an uncertain expression despite the support of his teammates, as he stood in the left batter's box.

“Play ball.” 

Furuya nodded from behind his glove, wound up, put power into his fingertips, and immediately the ball roared in front of the batter. Eyes wide, Nino stared at Furuya as his body trembled in fear of being hit by the heavy blow.   

An echo of the ball hitting the glove reverberated across the field, faint smoke visible from Miyuki's glove.

“Wow! Fast as ever!” 

“It's so loud!”

“Is he really a first year?” 

A proud smile appeared on his face as he heard the murmurs of the crowd. He had made the right decision in choosing Furuya as his rival. Undeterred, Eijun continued warming up in the bullpen, letting the umpire's shouts and the crowd's cheers wash over him.

Bam. 

Eijun's motion stopped, belatedly registering the shift in atmosphere when the umpire's voice shouted another ball. 

“That's the third ball!” 

“What's wrong, Furuya?” 

“Make the strike as usual!”

“It's not looking good for Seido.” 

Furuya looked confused on the mound while enthusiastic cheers, sounding like jeers, came from the Akikawa dugout. Seems like they had figured something out about Furuya, and whatever the Akikawa players had planned seemed to be working. 

“Foul!”

The scorching sun began to beat down on their skin, but the game had only just begun. Watching Furuya self-destruct on the mound somehow pained Eijun's too. 

“This is serious. Furuya's condition is getting worse, right now.” Kawakami commented beside Eijun. Chris said that Furuya would most likely not be able to play long under the heat of Tokyo and Eijun recalled the opening day. The way Furuya clung to him, it did put him in a difficult position.

“Let alone those Akikawa players deciding not to swing. They reduced his stamina even more, since the difference between a fastball pitcher and a contact pitcher is that they have to keep throwing to get strikes.” Kawakami’s explanation did nothing to ease Eijun’s nerves.  

“Strike!” 

Both of them breathed a sigh of relief. At last, there was good news from the umpire, along with the splitter catch by Miyuki. Eijun nodded. This is Seido all right. Miyuki would never let Furuya get overtaken by the opponent's plan. 

If they're not going to swing, Seido will take this chance to keep scoring as much as they can.

“Strike! Batter out!” Seido's supporters erupted in cheers of joy, some whispers of discontent still audible but at least beginning to subside. Despite the sense of relief, Seido's players on the field, in the dugout, and in the stands could not afford to let their guard down. The key player they had been anticipating finally came down, making his presence known.

You Shunshin. Someone who could be a role model for Eijun. As much as he resented Miyuki's taunts that day, he had to admit the accuracy of his pitch.

"You're different from Furuya. Your strength lies in your control and your determination not to crack under pressure. However imperfect your control is now, with time and hard work, you will surely become a great player in the near future, Sawamura, I have complete faith in you." Faith. Eijun didn't know where that faith came from, he felt unworthy. Yet for Chris, who rarely praised him, to make him realize his own strength, Eijun had to repay that faith.  

From the bullpen, he couldn't hear whatever the bespectacled pitcher was saying, as he rapidly diverted his attention to Miyuki's contorted look once Shunshin swiftly found Furuya's pitching rhythm. 

Miyuki tossed the ball back, gesturing another sign, to Furuya launching another pitch that was too high unlike his demand. The tension Miyuki struggled to ease fell back on Furuya's shoulders. Shunshin's intense aura didn't help either, making Furuya frown even more, totally offended.

Clang! 

As the ball flew to the left side, Shunshin threw his bat, the screams from the Akikawa dugout grew louder. By the fourth turn, in the first inning, Akikawa scored the first run.

- 🃁 -

With the game already tense from the start, Furuya struggled to get the last strikeout to end the first inning. It was obvious that Furuya was dissatisfied with his performance, judging by the aura he was giving off. Regardless, at least he experienced firsthand the biggest problem that people always warn about. Whether he should be grateful or not, though. This first inning, in spite of the difficulties, most of the seniors remained calm. Instead, they urged Furuya not to be upset, saying they would win back the stolen points and help him calm down. With punches and jokes, of course. 

Tanba went so far as to give Furuya slightly misleading advice to distract him. “The quickest way to calm down is to blame Miyuki if your pitch gets hit.” Miyuki could only stammer behind them.

“Here you go, Eijun-kun.” 

“Thanks, Haruicchi.” Eijun took the water from Haruichi, drank it all, and threw the cup in the trash. He took a towel from his bag before sitting down next to Chris. He hadn’t played yet, but he was already sweating quite a bit, so he couldn’t imagine how tired Furuya must be right now.

“First!” 

Eijun carefully watched Shunshin's abilities. Seemingly anticipating Seido's plan, Shunshin ran after the pitch and threw it to first base. Akikawa managed to prevent Kuramochi from bunting and running to base. He growled in frustration, failing to give Seido a head start. 

In the end, Shunshin showed his abilities by gaining the umpire's trust, executing a pitch barely outside the strike zone but still declared a pass. Ryosuke gave Shunshin a calculating look before returning to the dugout. 

Control, accuracy plus concentration. Shunshin has it all.

Ultimately, Seido failed to score in the first inning and even through the third inning.

At that point, Furuya had fought hard to prevent Akikawa's players from stealing any more runs from them, but anyone watching knew he was on the verge of breaking down. Kataoka quickly made a decision, asking Haruichi to call Eijun from the bullpen. 

“If Furuya lets another runner on base, I'm going to substitute him.” Kataoka looked him straight in the eye. “Are you up for it?”  

“What? Afraid? You lack faith in your throw?” Kanemaru watched with tension on the sidelines, the pressure Kataoka was putting on was too high and he doubted Eijun would be able to keep his cool throwing as usual. Still, if Eijun wasn't pitching under this kind of pressure ... 

Grip on Kataoka's bat tightened. Amidst the shock and anticipation, Kanemaru shuddered at the golden eyes with the grin that shone in the moonlight, on top of the mound. 

As if responding to Kanemaru, the sparkle in Eijun's eyes grew brighter. “If I run away, I don't deserve to dream of becoming the ace.”

Right leg raised high, standing steady with impressive balance. Stomping on the hard ground, his left hand pulled back, completely hidden behind his body. Chris followed Eijun's smirk. “I won't run!” 

Bam! 

“Strike!” 

Murmurs doubting Eijun, another first-year with no information and unrecognized abilities, began to turn to excited clamor. Seido members in the stand were the loudest in cheering. They regretted having doubted the southpaw.

“Strike two!” Meanwhile, Akikawa's first batter, Nino, looked pale. The fact that Eijun's pitches were so different from Furuya's caught him off guard. He remembered Shunshin's words to never underestimate an opponent. Alas, it was too late.

Miyuki asked for another inside, high, and Eijun, with the same smirk, gave him what he asked for. Nino swung desperately, Clang! His bat connected with the ball, giving him a glimmer of hope—

A glimmer. 

Nino's hopes were shattered when he realized Eijun's face was brightening, then he glanced at third base where Masuko was standing tall, stretching his glove toward the sky.

Tap. 

“Batter Out! Change sides!” 

“Yosh! Yosh! Yosh!” Eijun roared loudly. The stadium shook under the roar of the crowd, and the ecstatic shouts of the Seido players added to the frenzy. All but one person, who had been keeping a close eye on Eijun since he took the mound. The joy around him never quite reached him.

No, this simply wouldn't do. 

He couldn't let this happen.

- 🃁 -

In the end, Akikawa's ironclad defense couldn't withstand Seido's deadly attack. Yuki, Seido's captain and cleanup hitter, managed to break through the battery's airtight defense. Like it or not, Shunshin had to bow down, giving up a walk despite his own reluctance. Yet, if they thought it was all over, Seido was just getting started.

On his turn, Masuko sacrificed himself by bunting so the runners could advance, allowing Miyuki to continue the fight. Once Shunshin released the ball from his fingers, Miyuki grinned. Finally, the pitch he had been waiting for. His feet stomped forward, body twisted, as the bat connected with the ball.

Clang! 

Upon hearing the loud sound they had been longing for, Isashiki ran straight away, followed by Yuki, who made it home safely. Miyuki also stood with a grin on second base, patting hia pants in satisfaction.

Seido quickly scored two points. They had successfully evened the score.

Now it was Eijun's job to maintain that position.

- 🃁 -

“One at a time, Sawamura.” Yuuki reminded him, following Kuramochi and Ryosuke hitting his head while Masuko nodded at him. From his place, Miyuki threw the ball back, and they warmed up for a few minutes.

Eijun reached for the rosin bag, the white powder soon coated his palms. He recalled the moment when Seido scored a run, and right away Shunshin was surrounded by his teammates. They worried Shunshin would be shaken, but Eijun knew he was fine, because the smile on Shunshin's face said it all.

“Ei-chan, are you okay?” 

“I'm sorry, if only I had run faster, maybe I could catch the ball.” Daiki, Akagi's left fielder, looked down regretfully. Eijun patted him lightly on the shoulder, “It's okay! Instead, the game will be even more fun from now on!”

Eijun clapped his hands loudly, demanding his teammates' attention (even some members of the opposing team turned their heads), then whispered. There was a mischievous glint in his eyes, “Everyone will be surprised when we snatch the points to their faces. Oh my god! How awesome is that?!”

All of his teammates grinned, any doubt they had vanished. With Eijun as their leader, even the impossible seemed possible to them. 

“You have such a bad personality!” Inari, the center of the Akagi team, shook his head. 

“Eijun for you!” The others chimed in.

“Oi, what does that mean?!”  

Not only was the Akagi team able to score, they also managed to prevent the opposing team from gaining any more points. Leading the Akagi team to successfully advance to the third round!

Eijun smiled softly at the memory. Right from the start when he saw Shunshin, that feeling of longing and familiarity never left him. If Shunshin was the main character in a manga, maybe now was the time for them to turn things around once again. Maybe this year they would be the dark horse who won the championship.

“Play ball!” 

The rosin bag slipped from his left hand and fell to the ground. Eijun blew away the remaining white powder before nodding, executing movements that were more familiar to the new him. This new him. 

His body, which was getting stronger thanks to Chris's and Hiroshi training. His pitches, which were getting sharper, and his stamina, which was getting monstrous. 

It was different from his time at Akagi. It was different from when he was still not quite ready.

Nothing would be the same, neither the gold trophy not held in both hands nor himself watching from the sidelines with stinging eyes. Things would be different now, simply because he wouldn't let his team experience that bitter taste again as long as he was at Seido. 

After all, Seido would be the last one standing with the widest smiles they could muster.

“Seido 7 - 2 Akikawa.” 

“Bow!” 

“Thank you for the game!” 

Seeing the entire Akikawa team crying had a profound effect on Eijun. Really, why did they have to remind him so much of Akagi?   

“Your name?” The low voice broke his reverie. “Huh?” 

Shunshin, with his glasses on, held out his hand to Eijun’s face. He asked again, “Your name?”   

Eijun responded enthusiastically. “Sawamura Eijun!” 

“You Shunshin. What a fun game.” Eijun beamed. “I feel the same way! I hope we can compete again someday.” He smiled faintly. “I hope so too.” There was a wistfulness in those words that Eijun couldn't quite grasp.  

“See you again.” Shunshin turned away without a hint of regret. In his final year, he was content to fight with such a thrilling experience and a pleasant memory. 

Yet, he wouldn't stop. This was merely the beginning. After all, baseball had become too close to his heart. Let it be known, Shunshin would return, he would rock the world stage with his presence. To that end, he would focus on improving his skills for the time being. So it was fine, he would surely meet and compete again against other great teams. 

“Trust us!” His steps halted. “Seido will carry your dreams and those of everyone else. No, we will make it happen. So trust us!” He doesn’t need to turn back, left behind Eijun who bows earnestly.  

You Shunshin, in his last year playing high school baseball, entrusted his dream to the first-year student he had just met. 

- Omake -

Among the crowd of Seido supporters leaving the stadium with merry chatter, he moved quickly through the people. Sporting a plain blue jacket without his school insignia. A typical jacket for situations like this. His strides were wide, teeth gritted, holding back a hiss. 

He refused to allow it. 

The light in those eyes ... he wouldn't let it reignite. 

He swiftly grabbed his phone, dialed a number he knew by heart, and sent a new message. In every conversation between them, he always ordered that their chats not be kept. 

Once he reached the back of the building, near the parking lot, he pounded the wall several times, rage simmering in each punch.   

None of his endeavors thus far would be crushed so easily.

“Never think that you could escape my clutches, Sawamura.”

- To Be Continued -