Chapter 248: Prelude to the Showdown

"Seeing them like this, they've got this seriously impressive vibe on the court," Hyuga remarked, taking a deep breath.

The rest of the group agreed, their attention shifting to Fukuda Sogo's players making their way onto the court.

Having encountered them in non-competitive settings before, with their presence alone, he quickly realized they were a real deal.

Although they'd faced them in a game before during their summer camp. Today, the way they carried themselves was on a whole other level.

"Hahaha, their team name alone is kinda intimidating compared to ours."

Kiyoshi grinned, prompting chuckles from the group as they entered the court. The referee signaled for the pre-match ceremonies, and they lined up accordingly.

"They look like they've grown a lot since our last encounter," Nijimura observed, eyeing Seirin's players standing firm like a rock.

He sensed the determination radiating from them.

Tsuna stayed quiet as the ceremonies concluded. The instruction came to finish their warm-up before the game kicked off.

The anticipation in the air was thick as they geared up for the match.

Feeling a presence approaching, Tsuna turned to find Hyuga coming toward him with a smile on his face as he extended a handshake, "Been looking forward to this since our last summer camp. We'll be aiming for payback this time."

"You guys sound pretty confident. Alright, let's see what you've got," Tsuna smiled, responding playfully.

"Haha, we will try out best!"

Their exchange elicited chuckles from both.

Gripping Hyuga's hand firmly during the handshake, Tsuna added, "But don't expect us to take it easy on you this time around."

"Absolutely, but we'll let our game speak for itself!" Hyuga replied, his voice firm and a friendly smile on his face.

Tsuna acknowledged this with a nod before chiming in, "Fair enough, let's make it an awesome match."

"Agreed, let's make this game memorable," they both affirmed.

The captains shook hands with a nod, a sign of mutual respect, as they readied themselves for the intense showdown looming on the horizon.

"We held up our end of the bargain, just like we promised..."

Meanwhile, Ogiwara engaged in a conversation with Kuroko, reminiscing about the broken promises from their middle school days when Kuroko couldn't participate in a match against him.

Kuroko nodded, offering a smile as he spoke, "Let's give it our all out there, Ogiwara."

"Absolutely, Kuroko!" Ogiwara chuckled, his innocent smile lighting up his face as he responded. 

Kiyoshi extended a warm greeting to Nijimura, acknowledging their shared position on the court.

His desire to face Nijimura had sparked when Fukuda Sogo triumphed over Yosen High some time ago, witnessing Nijimura's remarkable performance.

Having faced the overwhelming might of Murasakibara before, Kiyoshi held a deep respect for Nijimura's ability to keep the formidable player in check.

Despite eventually succumbing to Murasakibara's power, it did nothing to diminish Kiyoshi's unwavering respect for Nijimura's skill and determination.

Engaged in conversation with Ogiwara, Kuroko couldn't resist turning his head when he noticed Kagami approaching Tsuna.

Observing Kuroko's gaze, Ogiwara followed it and chuckled. "Looks like that's my cue. Even if it's you, Kuroko, I won't go easy."

With a determined declaration, Ogiwara bid farewell, recognizing Kuroko's intention to join Kagami in greeting Tsuna. Affirming his understanding with a nod, Kuroko then proceeded to walk toward Kagami and Tsuna.

"Taiga, huh? I see you've stepped up your game, that's good," Tsuna commented, watching Kagami approach.

"..."

Kagami found himself at a loss for words as he instinctively moved closer to Tsuna. A mix of excitement and a hint of fear made his heart race.

"I won't back down – I'm not losing this time!"

Despite the uncertainty, Kagami opened his mouth with determination. 

Tsuna couldn't help but chuckle, shaking his head at Kagami's awkwardness. It was clear that this guy needed to brush up on his social skills.

"Alex clued me in on this, but it's still pretty amusing," Tsuna remarked, prompting Kagami to raise his eyebrows.

Looking around, Kagami asked, "Where's Alex? Isn't she with you?"

Tsuna sighed, explaining, "You know how she is..."

"...Ah, she's still carefree, I see," Kagami nodded in understanding.

"Well, she'll be here soon. Make sure to impress her with your progress," Tsuna advised, waving his hand dismissively as he started to walk away. However, he abruptly halted as he noticed Kuroko standing right in front of him.

Kuroko, breaking from his usual expressionless demeanor, wore a solemn look as he gazed at Tsuna.

"...."

Tsuna felt a bit uneasy as Kuroko's prolonged stare left him awkwardly scratching his head. Silently musing, he thought, "...These guys seriously need a crash course in proper communication."

"Kazama, I appreciate your kindness in guiding me on my way of basket. And thanks to you, Ogiwara didn't lose hope," Kuroko spoke slowly, punctuating his gratitude with a respectful bow.

"...He's still hung up on that misunderstanding from a while back, huh?" Tsuna couldn't help but feel a bit flabbergasted. In response, he said, "You know, Tetsuya, I think there's been a misunderstanding here. I didn't intentionally show you any---"

"I get it, but because of that, I've come this far..." Kuroko cut him off, prompting Tsuna to helplessly shake his head, deciding to let the misunderstanding persist.

"I just wanted you to know that," Kuroko continued slowly. His gaze intensified as he declared, "We're giving it our all to win!"

Kuroko's words lingered, inadvertently sparking a tense atmosphere.

Everyone in Fukuda Sogo turned to gaze at them, locking eyes with an intensity that could break most teams, instilling a sense of fear.

Yet, in response to Kuroko's resolute statement, the members of Seirin stood their ground.

They met the fiery stares from Fukuda Sogo head-on, displaying a steadfast determination. There was no trace of fear; instead, they stood firm against the pressure, signaling their unwavering commitment to victory.

Tsuna couldn't help but crack a smile at Kuroko's declaration, his expression carrying a hint of amusement.

His grin deepened as he responded, "That's cute. Let's see how far you can go this time, Seirin High...."

Kuroko remained silent, recognizing the sincerity behind Tsuna's words. There was no sugarcoating or politeness – it was an unfiltered expression of Tsuna's true sentiments.

The clash of gazes between the two teams set the stage for the impending showdown.

The crowd erupted in cheers, their excitement reverberating throughout the entire gymnasium, capturing the anticipation building within the court. The electric atmosphere signaled that something thrilling was about to unfold.

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