Chapter 54: The national competition

While Aizen was still immersed in his own thoughts, his teammates couldn't contain their excitement. Whether on the field or on the bench, even the coach rushed directly to Aizen. They surrounded him and threw him high into the air!

"Aizen, we finally entered the national competition!"

"Seniors are so awesome!"

"Entering the national competition!!"

Aizen was a little confused by the sudden enthusiasm of his teammates but was soon infected by their emotions. He fully immersed himself in the crazy celebration.

Meanwhile, reporters captured this precious moment with their cameras. "Click, click!"

In the stands, Midorima Shintarō, Kise Ryōta, and Satsuki Momoi watched all this unfold. Teikō Junior High had already qualified as the first seed in the Kanto region and would enter the national competition. They had time to watch the game today, and for them, Aizen was always special.

Although Aizen's team had lost to Teikō before, they knew just how strong Aizen was. He was an opponent on par with the "Miracle Era." Seeing Aizen now, having grown to a height of 2 meters in just one month, made them respect him even more. Both Midorima and Kise felt solemn.

Midorima looked at the Jianguang players celebrating on the field, a glint reflecting off his glasses. He was lost in memories. Once, they had been like Jianguang, excitedly jumping up and down for a victory. But now, no matter how many games they won, the passion was gone. At this moment, Midorima felt a pang of envy.

He touched the glasses on his nose and said calmly, "There's nothing more to see. Let's go, Kise."

Kise protested, "Ah, ah? You're leaving now, Midorima!"

Despite what Midorima thought of Aizen, Kise had already regarded Aizen as his next target to defeat. Kise harbored no hostility towards the opponent who had defeated him twice; he recognized and appreciated Aizen. He had even thought about congratulating him in person. But Midorima was so out of touch.

Midorima said coldly, "Put away your extra thoughts. In what capacity do you plan to approach him? Winner? Challenger?"

After saying that, Midorima walked away, not caring if Kise and Satsuki followed. Hearing his words, Kise also became serious. He realized it wasn't appropriate to approach Aizen now. Remembering Aizen's sharp tongue, he knew he wouldn't get any good results. Pleasing Aizen might lead to more trouble. Since Aizen had entered the national competition, they would surely meet again.

Kise lowered his eyes and said calmly, "Let's wait a while. We'll meet again. This time, I won't lose..."

After sorting out his thoughts, Kise chased after Midorima. Satsuki ignored the two of them, her face blushing as she quietly watched Aizen on the field. She had wanted to meet Aizen but, reminded by Midorima, suppressed the idea. She attended almost every one of Aizen's games and found his constant evolution fascinating. She couldn't see his limit, which only attracted her more.

She keenly felt that Aizen had changed again after the game. Looking at the tall figure surrounded by the crowd, she felt drawn to him. Once she laid eyes on him, she couldn't help but look again. Her face reddened more, and her legs clamped together.

...

After everyone vented their excitement, they thanked each other as usual. The other team's sad and defeated looks contrasted sharply with Aizen and his teammates. But Aizen felt no sympathy; he had grown used to his opponent's state. Each game, the media reinforced his title of "tyrant." Over time, Aizen's heart had hardened.

With the knockout round over, their final qualifying place was confirmed. As they prepared to leave the player tunnel, the audience cheered and applauded again.

"You played well!"

"Come on, Aizen!"

"We're counting on you. Keep going after you enter the nationals!"

"I'll always keep an eye on you. Come on!"

"Honey, look here~"

Aizen smiled and raised his right hand to respond to the fans who supported him. He felt satisfied. Today, he had fulfilled his promise and won the support of the fans. His life felt more fulfilling.

In his previous life, Aizen had heard the saying, 'Life is nothing more than a few moments.' Although he didn't fully agree, if he had to choose a few moments, this would be one of them.

Aizen took off his jersey and threw it to the audience, who scrambled for it. He then turned and walked into the passage, gradually disappearing.