The Conniving Crow

Chapter 96: Karasuno VS Wakunan Part 1

The second day of the qualifier rounds had arrived, and Karasuno was back at the Sendai City Gymnasium, ready to face their next opponent – Wakunan High School. As the boys got prepared for the match, the gymnasium buzzed with anticipation and excitement.

Hinata and Sugawara stood side by side, observing the crowd gathering in the stands. "Wakunan has a lot of family supporters," Sugawara remarked, noticing the sea of banners and cheers from the opposing team's fans.

"Family supporters?" Hinata repeated, intrigued.

Sugawara nodded. "Yeah, they have a strong local fanbase. It's great to have that kind of support, especially in crucial matches like this."

Tsukishima, who overheard their conversation, couldn't help but give them a look of disgust. "Are you two jealous or something? It's just fans."

Hinata grinned and waved off Tsukishima's remark. "Nah, it's not jealousy. It's just cool to have so many people cheering for you, right?"

Sugawara chuckled. "You're right, Hinata. It's always nice to have the extra encouragement."

Meanwhile, Keishin approached Takeda and (y/n) with a slightly worried expression. "I've been thinking about this match against Wakunan. Their style of play might not be the best matchup for us."

Takeda furrowed his brows. "What do you mean?"

"They're a team that excels in counter-attacks and defense," Keishin explained. "And we rely heavily on our quick attacks and tempo. It might not be easy to break through their solid defenses."

(Y/n) nodded in understanding. "So, it's going to be a tough battle."

Takeda gave a reassuring smile. "Yes, it will be challenging, but I have faith in our team's adaptability. We've faced tough opponents before, and we can do it again."

Keishin nodded in agreement. "You're right. I shouldn't underestimate our boys. They've grown so much throughout this journey."

As the time for the match approached, the gymnasium filled with anticipation and tension. The players from both teams took their positions on the court, ready to give it their all in this crucial match.

Just as the match was about to begin, a familiar voice echoed through the gymnasium. "Hey, Ryuu-chan! Do your best out there!"

Tanaka's eyes widened in surprise as he turned to look at the stands. But it was Nishinoya who called out to her "Saeko-nee-san!"

There, standing in the crowd, was Tanaka Saeko, Tanaka's older sister. She was wearing her trademark jacket and a big smile, showing her support for her brother and his team.

Tanaka couldn't help but grin widely. "Thanks, Nee-san! I'll give it my all!"

"(Y/n)-chan! It's good to see you! You look cute in your assistant coach outfit!" Saeko called out to (y/n).

"T-thanks, Saeko-nee-san!" (y/n) couldn't help the blush growing on her face.

The match started with a powerful serve from Wakunan, and the battle between the two teams began. Karasuno faced a formidable opponent, and it was clear that Wakunan was not going to give in easily.

Even though Hinata and Kageyama managed to score the first point with their quick attack, Wakunan didn't seem surprised or even caught off guard. Sensing that Wakunan would give them a difficult match, Daichi decided to encourage his team.

"Wow, Hinata." Daichi started "That's one big powerhouse school that's paying special attention to you. I bet they're even studying up on you."

Those words were enough to light the fire in Hinata, but Daichi didn't stop there.

"Man, the rest of us sure pale in comparison." He fake sighed, lighting the fire in Tanaka who was listening in.

Now both Hinata and Tanaka were on fire, ready to attack.

"Nicely done, Daichi-senpai." (y/n) silently giggled from the side.

"That's the captain for you." Keishin chuckled "He knows which buttons to push."

It was Kageyama's turn to serve, and even though it was a very powerful serve, the Wakunan captain managed to receive it. Not only that, but they showed one of their specialties, the block-out.

Keishin made the comparison between the Wakunan captain and the "Little Giant" that Hinata admired so much.

The match continued, with Karasuno and Wakunan both scoring points back and forth. Wakunan's captain, Nakashima Takeru, demonstrated his abilities as a leader, easily hyping up his team and keeping them calm at the same time.

"Hey, Tabi." Nakashima called out to his teammate Kawatabi. "That cute Karasuno coach is totally keeping an eye on you."

"You serious?" Kawatabi got excited before calling out to their setter. "Give the ball to me every time!"

After a powerful spike, Kawatabi beamed with pride, checking to see if (y/n) was indeed watching him.

After a long rally, Karasuno finally managed to score the point, but as the members celebrated, Tanaka's voice caught their attention.

"Daichi-san?" He questioned as he looked down at Daichi on the ground.

As Tanaka and Daichi both dived to try and receive the ball, they bumped into each other. Daichi took a big hit to the head. (Y/n) immediately rushed to his side, concerned.

"Daichi-senpai, are you okay?" (y/n) asked, kneeling beside him.