Chapter 291: Basking in Glory

Excitement crackled through the Yayogi Gymnasium like electricity as the crowd's eyes remained fixated on the court, where Fukuda Sogo and Rakuzan High stood in line for the post-game ceremony.

With Fukuda Sogo's triumph, they had solidified their reign as the undisputed champions, worthy of their esteemed title as the King of Kings!

In no time, the post-game formalities concluded, with Rakuzan High's players offering their congratulations before departing.

"Whoa!"

"Let's go!"

"Congratulations! Fukuda Sogo!"

Meanwhile, the crowd's anticipation reached a fever pitch as the awarding ceremony commenced. Fukuda Sogo's team stood at the center, basking in the glow of their victory, while the committee members showered them with praise and medals.

"...Huh? Only six players?"

The chairman's confusion was palpable, contrasting with the celebratory atmosphere.

Even Seirin, a relatively new club, boasted ten players in total.

"We did have reserves, but they all ran away after our training sessions..." Nijimura's explanation only added to the chairman's bewilderment.

His composure slipped as he abandoned all decorum, scratching his head while sweat trickled down his forehead.

"...How on earth did your training scare them all away?"

The chairman shook his head, a mixture of amusement and resignation evident on his face, while the members of Fukuda Sogo exchanged wry smiles, their gazes shifting subtly toward Tsuna.

He stood confidently amidst the committee, conversing effortlessly with them, his smile genuine and relaxed.

"Let's just say we've made a deal with the devil," Mochizuki murmured, eliciting chuckles from the group, who nodded in agreement.

"You're not wrong," Ishida remarked, shaking his head in acknowledgment.

Ogiwara's smile widened with gratitude and satisfaction, thankful that he accepted Tsuna's invitation to join Fukuda Sogo.

"..."

Haizaki clicked his tongue in response, resisting the urge to let his thoughts wander as he maintained his tough exterior, refusing to be swayed by sentimentality.

After exchanging a few cordial words, the moment arrived for the chairman to present Fukuda Sogo with their well-deserved trophy for winning the Winter Cup.

The atmosphere crackled with anticipation as all eyes fixed on the gleaming trophy brought forth by the committee members.

It was a magnificent sight, shaped like a delicate snowflake adorned with shimmering gold accents, a perfect symbol of the prestigious tournament and Fukuda Sogo's victory.

As the chairman handed the trophy to Tsuna, the gymnasium erupted into a cacophony of enthusiastic cheers that reverberated throughout the space.

Amidst the jubilation, Tsuna gazed down at the trophy cradled in his hands, a faint smile gracing his features.

"..."

Yet, inwardly, a sense of emptiness lingered, a realization that the victory had failed to stir any profound emotion within him.

Observing from the sidelines, Nijimura couldn't shake the feeling of Tsuna's solitude, but a glimpse of a different kind of smile on Tsuna's face dispelled his concerns.

Shaking off his introspective thoughts, Tsuna turned to his teammates, his voice ringing out with determination, "Gather around, everyone, and hold the trophy..."

With smiles exchanged, the team formed a circle around the trophy.

Tsuna met each of their gazes, his words carrying a depth of sincerity, "Our journey has been long and arduous, and while this trophy is indeed a manifestation to our hard work, its true value lies in the bond we've forged along the way. Let's continue to push ourselves to the limit, to pour our blood, sweat, and tears into every endeavor."

He paused, letting his words sink in before continuing, "This trophy serves as a reminder of our dedication and commitment. Let's carry this same spirit forward into our future endeavors!"

Tsuna's heartfelt speech resonated with each member of the team, their faces illuminated with pride and determination.

"I'm honored to have each and every one of you by my side, and I hope you feel the same! Cheers!"

The atmosphere in Fukuda Sogo was filled with emotion as Tsuna's words struck a chord with each member, their hearts swelling with pride and gratitude.

With cheers echoing throughout the gymnasium, Nijimura carefully retrieved the trophy, presenting it to Alexandra. Together, they rushed towards Tsuna, their jubilant shouts filling the air as they hoisted him into the air repeatedly.

Their joyful celebration was infectious, spreading smiles to all who witnessed it.

"He truly deserves this," Aomine murmured, his words catching everyone off guard.

"No, they deserve this. I suppose I can't win it on my own..."

A moment of stunned silence followed Aomine's unexpected admission, leaving him perplexed as he glanced around at the surprised faces.

Imayoshi quickly regained his composure and clapped Aomine on the shoulder with a hearty laugh, "Well said! That's the spirit, Aomine!"

Aomine scratched his head bashfully, then followed the others as they exited the gym, the exhilarating energy of victory still pulsing through them.

"...Let's go, Shin!"

Takao's voice resounded behind him, breaking Midorima's reverie as he gazed at the scene unfolding on the court.

Without uttering a word, Midorima pivoted on his heel and fell into step with the rest of the Shutoku team, their departure marking the end of their presence in the gymnasium.

Kise's grin widened at the sight of Fukuda Sogo's jubilation.

Still, his reverie was swiftly interrupted by a playful jab from Kasamatsu, igniting their usual banter and drawing knowing sighs from their Kaijo teammates.

Meanwhile, Kagami and Kuroko strode purposefully alongside their teammates in Seirin, their eyes ablaze with determination as they reflected on the day's events.

Meanwhile, Murasakibara found himself reluctantly tethered to a rope by Okamura, who was keen to ensure that the absent-minded giant didn't wander off amidst the throng of people.

Yosen High made their exit with Murasakibara munching casually on snacks, seemingly unfazed by the proceedings.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding their future opportunities to compete, each member of the team resolved to use today's game as fuel for their improvement, determined to emerge stronger the next time they met.

As their private bus rumbled back towards their accommodation, Tsuna's voice cut through the air, sparking interest among his teammates.

"Ever tried A5 Wagyu?"

Tsuna inquired. His tone was casual.

The response was a unanimous chorus of negations, each teammate admitting they had yet to sample the renowned delicacy.

However, for Nijimura, Tsuna's question stirred a wave of nostalgia, reminding him of the days when Tsuna would extend similar invitations during their time at Teiko.

"The usual spot?" Nijimura queried, a hint of fondness in his voice.

A nostalgic smile spread across Tsuna's face as he confirmed, "Yeah, let's do it."

With a nod and a smile, Nijimura relayed the destination to the driver, redirecting them towards Tsuna's family restaurant. It was a fitting celebration of their victory, an opportunity to savor A5 Wagyu together and reminisce on their journey thus far.

Tsuna's mention of a rare sake reserved for VIPs instantly piqued Alexandra's interest, her mouth practically watering at the mere thought.

Meanwhile, across the city, a line of cars snaked towards Fukuda Sogo's accommodation, where Hirutora checked his watch with a furrowed brow.

Observing his son's absence, Hirutora told Sebas, "Let's delay our spontaneous visit until tomorrow. It appears they have other plans."

"...Understood."

Sebas nodded in agreement after a brief silence, exhaling a sigh of resignation.