[164] After the Game
Chapter 164: After the Game
The game had ended.
The intense summer battle finally reached its conclusion.
On the bus ride back, the atmosphere among the Seidou team was filled with laughter and celebration.
For the third-year seniors, achieving their dream in their final summer was an indescribably sweet victory.
Everyone was in a state of euphoria, enjoying the moment to its fullest.
However, there was one notable absence among the Seidou first-string players: the MVP of the match, Eijun Sawamura.
It wasn't due to any oversight.
Immediately after the game, Coach Kataoka had ordered him to be taken to the hospital for a check-up.
The decision was made even before the team had packed up their gear; the coach insisted that Rei Takashima and Chris escort Eijun for medical evaluation.
Another person who volunteered to join was none other than Miyuki.
Although Eijun repeatedly insisted he was fine, he couldn't argue against Coach Kataoka's stern gaze.
In the end, he gave in, reasoning that it was best to avoid any unnecessary trouble—though he'd never admit it, he was clearly intimidated by the coach's icy stare.
Takashima, Chris, and even Miyuki all agreed with Kataoka's decision.
After all, the injury had involved his head.
Even though it looked like just a surface wound, it was better to be cautious.
A thorough examination was essential to rule out any serious issues.
Eijun's father and grandfather had also arrived to watch the game, so they accompanied him to the hospital as well.
At a nearby private hospital, Takashima insisted that Eijun undergo a full-body check-up.
"The school will cover all the medical expenses, so just stay put and listen," she said firmly. With a sheepish smile, Eijun bowed his head and complied, knowing better than to argue with her.
The results of the check-up showed no serious injuries, just some general fatigue.
The doctor advised that Eijun avoid any intense activities for the next couple of days and focus on rest.
Relieved, Takashima let out a sigh, and Chris, standing by, also gave a smile of reassurance.
Especially for Chris, who had experienced serious injuries in his own high school career, the idea of Eijun potentially facing a similar fate was something he couldn't bear to see.
Outside the hospital, Takashima bowed deeply and apologized to Eijun's father and grandfather. "I'm very sorry that Sawamura got injured during the game," she said sincerely.
Eijun's father waved off the concern with a smile. "The tests showed he's fine, so it's all good."
Eijun's grandfather, laughing heartily, added, "It's just this reckless kid's antics getting him into trouble. Miss Takashima, please keep an eye on him from now on!"
Takashima nodded, still looking slightly concerned.
"Are you okay, Eijun? Does it still hurt?" In front of Eijun, Wakana looked at the bandage on his forehead, noticing a faint spot of blood. Her eyes were filled with concern as she gently touched his wound.
Eijun felt a twinge of embarrassment, especially as he caught sight of Chris smiling warmly and Miyuki smirking playfully a short distance away. He felt even more self-conscious.
At this moment, there was no way Eijun could avoid Wakana. Her worry was genuine, and with their childhood friendship spanning over a decade, he could only force a casual smile and say, "I'm fine. It's just a small cut."
Wakana's eyes softened, and she spoke with a tender scolding tone, "Don't be so reckless during games. The most important thing is to protect yourself. I can't leave you alone for a moment without you getting into trouble."
Eijun, caught off guard by her words, could only scratch his head awkwardly, giving a sheepish smile.
The pout on her face, tinged with a hint of reproach, made Eijun feel somewhat uncomfortable.
He thought to himself, wasn't Wakana supposed to be a more reserved character in the original story?
Shouldn't she be more subtle?
"Yeah, I know," Eijun replied, trying his best to sound calm, though there was a hint of forced bravado in his tone.
"And congratulations, Eijun! You made it! You're going to Koshien, and I know everyone's really happy for you. I'll be cheering for you there for sure!" Wakana said softly as she gently adjusted the collar of his jacket, her voice filled with warmth.
Eijun froze for a moment, then smiled in response.
"Yeah, I'll do my best!" he said with newfound determination.
The conversation didn't last long.
While Eijun's father and grandfather were still in high spirits, the conversation between the men was brief and to the point.
After a few words of congratulations and encouragement, Eijun's father, grandfather, and Wakana left the hospital.
Watching them leave, Eijun clenched his fists slightly.
Koshien was finally within reach, but now the real challenge began—national supremacy, facing off against the other 48 teams from across the country.
This summer was only the beginning!
On July 31, the young players would embark on their next journey.
---
At Seidou High School, in the familiar dining hall of the Seishin Dormitory, all members of the school's baseball team had gathered. Coaches, managers, and more than a hundred people were all present.
Joyful expressions filled the room, especially among the third-year seniors.
From their first year to now, they had endured two years of disappointment and six years of regret.
This year, they had finally redeemed themselves and avenged last year's defeat by Inashiro.
Double happiness had arrived.
For Seidou High, this was definitely a day to celebrate.
As soon as the school leadership received the news from Jingu Stadium, they immediately put up a banner announcing their victory, proudly displaying it in the most visible part of the school.
The mood was one of excitement, as it was a moment of pride for the entire Seidou High.
The school leaders, who had often appeared in the original story, couldn't contain their joy.
They were telling anyone who would listen how amazing the team was this year and how capable Coach Kataoka was.
They had completely forgotten how critical they had been of Coach Kataoka in private.
The team's victory had a direct impact on the entire school, especially since Seidou had long been famous for its baseball program.
This return to the national tournament was an even bigger deal.
Naturally, the school was thrilled. The costs for the team's trip to Hyogo were fully covered, and they decided to sponsor the drumline and cheerleading squad as well, all in the name of boosting morale.
The school proudly declared that no matter what, they wouldn't lose in terms of spirit.
The regional tournament had just ended, and with a week left before the national tournament, the school promised that if Seidou made it into the top eight, the final four, or even won, the players would receive additional rewards.
It had been six long years, and the joy of this regional victory was understandable. No wonder the school leadership was ecstatic.
---------
If you want to read 10 advance chapters ahead.
Visit my patreon: patreon.com/Leonzky