Into the Fray

The rush of adrenaline as Kageyama stepped onto the court still lingered within him, but as he was walking off the court after their intense match, he found himself craving a moment to unwind and process the emotions swirling inside. Pulling out his cigarette pack, he decided to take a short walk outside to clear his head. The cool night air hit his face as he stepped out of the arena, and he couldn't help but feel a sense of calm wash over him. Taking a deep breath, Kageyama lit a cigarette, and as he took a drag, he felt a wave of memories wash over him. He remembered the feeling all too well, the nicotine coursing through his veins, and the sense of calm it brought him. As he stood there, taking a moment to collect his thoughts, Kageyama's mind wandered back to the past, to the struggles he had faced and the lessons he had learned. The memories came flooding back – the long hours of practice, the endless dedication, and the thrill of victory. Kageyama closed his eyes, letting the smoke drift lazily from his lips, and he felt a sense of nostalgia wash over him. He thought back to the early days of his volleyball career, to the struggles he had faced, and to the people who had supported him along the way. Hinata's words echoed in his mind – 'You've got this, Kageyama.' He had believed in himself, and now he was starting to believe in himself again. The sound of footsteps approaching broke the silence, and Kageyama opened his eyes to find Tanaka standing before him, a concerned look etched on his face. "Kageyama," Tanaka said, his voice firm but gentle. "What are you doing out here? You should be getting some rest. We've got another match coming up soon." Kageyama nodded, taking one last drag on his cigarette before snubbing it out on the ground. He knew that Tanaka was right; he couldn't let his guard down now. "I'm just taking a moment to clear my head, Tanaka," Kageyama said, his voice low and steady. The coach nodded, understanding in his eyes. "I know you've been working hard, Kageyama. But remember, it's not just about you – it's about the team. We've got a long way to go, and we need you at your best." Kageyama nodded, feeling a surge of determination course through his veins. He knew that Tanaka was right; he had to stay focused and keep pushing forward. As he turned to head back inside, Kageyama caught sight of Hinata standing a short distance away, a look of concern etched on his face. Kageyama smiled, feeling a sense of gratitude towards his partner. "Hey," Hinata said, as Kageyama approached him. "You okay?" Kageyama nodded, feeling a sense of calm wash over him. "Yeah, I'm fine," he said, his voice low and steady. Hinata nodded, his eyes searching Kageyama's face. "You were amazing out there today," he said, a smile spreading across his face. Kageyama felt a surge of gratitude towards his partner, and he reached out, placing a hand on Hinata's shoulder. "Thanks to you, Hinata," he said, his voice filled with emotion. "You've always been there for me." Hinata smiled, his eyes shining with support and encouragement. "That's what partners are for," he said, his voice low and steady. Together, they walked back into the arena, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.