Chapter 188: Closing the Second Round I

While Fukuda Sogo, now with Murasakibara as their new addition, focused on recovering from their intense previous game, the Yoyogi Gymnasium retained its vibrant energy.

"Whoa!"

"Kaijo! Kaijo! Kaijo!"

"Let's go!"

The crowd erupted in cheers as Kaijo High concluded their game with a resounding victory, the scoreboard displaying an impressive 110 - 46.

Kasamatsu observed the lively scene, his gaze shifting to Kise, who stood on the court, panting heavily after an intense performance.

"Seems like the game on the other side earlier excites him," Kasamatsu thought, noting the signs of both exertion and satisfaction on Kise's face.

Meanwhile, Kise relished in the post-game moment, vividly recalling the intense movements he had attempted during the match.

He couldn't help but glance at his trembling hands, feeling the soreness in his muscles, the tangible results of the demanding maneuvers.

"...Kazamacchi's movements were definitely different than Aominecchi's," he mused, reflecting on the unique styles of these two formidable players.

Kise discovered that Tsuna's movements, though very agile and fast, carried an inherent power in each step. What added to the challenge was Tsuna's strategic consideration of his opponent's movements, a mental aspect that demanded extra focus.

On the flip side, Aomine's approach focused on speed and reaction, relying fully on instinct.

Though both styles were distinct, they shared a common requirement—strong physical capability and focus.

This realization made Kise clench his fist in determination.

However, a spark of excitement glinted in his eyes as he contemplated, "...These are all feasible to copy!"

However, just as Kise was at the peak of his excitement, a sudden jab to his stomach made him flinch in pain.

Turning to the perpetrator, he questioned, "Why!?"

"You get too excited, Kise! That makes you spend unnecessary stamina to win the game...." Kasamatsu responded with his usual stoic expression, earning an eye roll from Kise.

Kasamatsu shook his head, adding, "You should save more of your stamina for our upcoming game!"

Kise widened his eyes at the reminder before breaking into a smirk.

"Don't worry about it," he assured his captain, continuing confidently, "...All I can think about right now is our upcoming game."

Kise's expression eased as he regained his composure, underscoring his serious determination for the upcoming match against Fukuda Sogo Academy.

Kasamatsu nodded with a determined expression.

Fukuda Sogo Academy stood as a formidable opponent, not only as the reigning Interhigh Champion but also demonstrated by their recent victory over Yosen High, hailed as the best defensive team with the top center in Japan.

While he couldn't deny the challenges that lay ahead, Kasamatsu found solace and hope in the visible improvements Kise had showcased throughout the first tournament.

As they walked together, Kasamatsu's eyes gleamed with a renewed sense of optimism.

"...This year will be my last. I can't afford to lose hope. I certainly can't lose my confidence," he reflected, casting a glance at Kise walking alongside the others.

Taking the lead, he guided the team out of the gymnasium, silently declaring, "...We have to win this tournament!"

Meanwhile, on the other court, the intensity of the crowd remained palpable as they cheered fervently.

"Shin!"

Takao's voice cut through the din as he expertly passed the ball to Midorima.

As Midorima secured the ball, he spared a light glance toward the other court, his thoughts drifting, "...Kaijo have won, huh?"

"Then, the next round will be a sight to see..." He thought with a slight smirk on his face.

The defender facing Midorima on the opposite side displayed beads of sweat rolling down his face as he diligently tried to impede Midorima's shooting prowess.

Despite his best efforts, he found himself drenched in perspiration, feeling the overwhelming pressure emanating from Midorima, who seamlessly transitioned into his shooting motion.

"...Are you kidding me!"

The defender thought, a sense of disbelief washing over him as he witnessed Midorima's audacious move.

As Midorima leapt, the unfortunate defender found his jumping height insufficient to reach Midorima's tall form.

Despite his best efforts, he failed to block the ball, which shot up into the air with a high arc, devoid of any wasted motion. The sphere swiftly descended into the net with a swish, scoring yet another remarkable three-pointer for Midorima.

Frustration etched across his face, and the defender could only gaze at the successful shot.

What added to his vexation was Midorima's apparent nonchalance; the shooter didn't even spare a glance at his impeccable shot as he calmly retreated to his defensive position just a few steps away from where he started.

"...Freaking monster!"

The defender couldn't contain his frustration, muttering under his breath as he begrudgingly acknowledged Midorima's exceptional skill and unnerving precision on the court.

"Poor guy..." Takao shook his head in pity, his eyes empathetic as he observed the defender tasked with marking Midorima. However, a glint of understanding shone in his eyes as he continued, "Well, can't disagree with him though. That guy is indeed a monster..."

Since their challenging game against Seirin, Midorima had ramped up his training drills, driven by the belief that his shortcomings had contributed to the team's defeat.

If anyone heard what Midorima thought, they might have been tempted to dispute his self-critical assessment, perhaps even resorting to a friendly beating for uttering such nonsense. Yet, Midorima remained resolute in his conviction.

"Good shot, Shin!" Takao cheered.

Midorima responded with a nonchalant air, adjusting his glasses with precision as he remarked, "...It's natural. I brought my lucky item for the day with me. There is zero chance for me to miss my shot..."

Takao shot Midorima a light, complicated gaze, a mix of understanding and amusement evident in his eyes as he chuckled and quickly covered it up.

Glancing at the scoreboard that displayed their overwhelming advantage over their current opponent, Takao's thoughts drifted, "...We're in the same bracket as Rakuzan High."

Upon uncovering details about Rakuzan High's roster, including former Generation of Miracles Captain Akashi, Shuutoku realized that the other players were no slouches either.

Concern clouded Takao's gaze as he considered, "...The Uncrowned Kings, and three of them are all in Rakuzan High."

Even without Akashi, Takao couldn't deny that Rakuzan High presented a formidable challenge.

"And a team like that got defeated in the Interhigh? Does it mean everyone else on Fukuda Sogo is as good or even better than the Uncrowned Kings?"

Takao wondered, finding it a bit hard to believe.

Shaking off those thoughts, he tried to focus on the game at hand. But the worry of being a burden lingered as he glanced at Midorima, who was the backbone of Shuutoku.

He clenched his fist, determined to get better and not hold Midorima back.

"Who cares if they're the Uncrowned Kings! If Shin's shots are unstoppable, we win!" Takao thought, recalling the prowess of Midorima's shots.

He had been pondering ways to make those shots even more unstoppable, fully aware of his own limitations compared to the prodigious talents of the Generation of Miracles.

Determined to be a better support for Midorima and recognizing the upcoming challenge of facing Rakuzan High, Takao wanted to contribute more to the team's success.

"...Shin, could we train together later?" Takao suddenly suggested, catching Midorima off guard.

"Why all of a sudden? We trained together with everyone already..."

"No, just the two of us. I have an idea I'd like to try..."

Midorima furrowed his brow, studying Takao's determined expression before sighing, "...Sure, as long as you don't waste my time."

"I won't disappoint you..."

Takao's expression brightened with eagerness as he made the promise.

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