The Conniving Crow

Chapter 103: Karasuno VS Aoba Johsai - The First Set

With Karasuno securing the first point of the match, it was now Kageyama's turn to serve. He aimed his serve close to the line, a calculated risk. However, Hanamaki, with a keen eye, made a quick judgment call and let the ball sail out of bounds.

"Don't worry about it, Kageyama!" (y/n) called out from the sidelines, her voice filled with unwavering support. "That was very close. You'll get it next time!"

As the game continued, Iwaizumi stepped up to the service line. His serve was powerful and aimed directly at Asahi, who managed to receive it but sent the ball too close to the net. Kunimi from Seijoh was ready to capitalize on the opportunity, preparing to slam the ball down. However, Kageyama's swift reflexes came into play as he intercepted the ball and set it up perfectly for Tanaka to execute a thunderous spike. The ball hammered down on Seijoh's side, earning Karasuno another hard-fought point.

"Nicely done, you guys!" (y/n) cheered from the bleachers before turning to her brother, a proud smile on her face. "I'm amazed, they're playing really well."

"Agreed," Keishin responded, his eyes fixed on the court. "Let's hope this keeps going."

The first set continued with both teams scoring points back and forth. When the score reached 6-5 in favor of Karasuno, it became evident that Hinata was growing increasingly anxious. He still hadn't had the chance to showcase his incredible spiking skills.

Finally, the opportunity he'd been waiting for arrived. Hinata leaped into the air, ready to spike the ball with all his might. However, Kindaichi from Seijoh was prepared and managed to block Hinata's spike. The frustrating memories of their previous match against Seijoh began to resurface within Hinata, and he instinctively looked behind him, hoping for someone to keep the ball in play. Fortunately, Tsukishima reacted quickly, delivering a solid receive that set up the next play.

"Alright, String Bean!" (y/n) beamed with pride, her encouragement reaching Hinata and letting him know that she believed in him.

Kageyama, ever observant of his teammates' emotions, noticed the frustration in Hinata's eyes. In his own unique way of offering support, he gave Hinata a swift but well-intentioned kick and yelled at him to refocus. Remarkably, it seemed to work. Hinata managed to touch Iwaizumi's powerful spike, making it easier for Nishinoya to receive. Once again, Hinata found himself in a spiking position, and this time, he evaded Kindaichi's block, scoring Karasuno another crucial point.

The scoreboard now read 7-5 in Karasuno's favor.

As the set progressed, both teams continued to score points in succession, and the point gap between them remained narrow. The intensity of the match began to draw more spectators into the stands, the audience growing with each rally.

When the score reached 17-15, it was evident to Seijoh that Hinata had honed his skills and was learning to choose his shots wisely. In response, Matsukawa, the strategist of Seijoh, came up with a plan to counter Hinata's evolving playstyle. Aoba Johsai decided to adjust their blocking strategy, aiming to limit Hinata's options and make it easier to receive his spikes.

Matsukawa's move proved effective as he blocked Hinata's possibility of a cross shot, effectively forcing Hinata to go for a straight shot, which Kindaichi could now receive more easily. The adjustment demonstrated Seijoh's adaptability and strategy, reminding Karasuno that they were up against a formidable opponent.

However, Karasuno had come a long way since their previous encounter with Seijoh. They had not only improved their individual skills but also learned from their past experiences. They were no longer the underdogs; they were now a team that could stand toe-to-toe with Seijoh.

It was Oikawa's turn to serve again, and the frustration in his eyes was unmistakable. Iwaizumi, his vice-captain and close friend, could sense it as well. He even advised the others to cover the back of their heads in jest. Oikawa's serve was a potent one, and he delivered it with tremendous force. The ball soared over the net, flying past Nishinoya and Daichi at astonishing speed. Fortunately for Karasuno, the serve veered out of bounds, and they found themselves at set point.

With the set on the line, Kageyama took his position to serve. Wataru received it cleanly, and Iwaizumi was ready to make a play. He leaped and executed a spike that sliced through Karasuno's defense, scoring a crucial point for Seijoh.

The Seijoh coaches recognized the critical juncture of the match and decided it wasn't the time to play it safe. They called for a substitution, introducing a new player onto the court. It was a player that (y/n) hadn't seen before, and he carried an air of aggression about him. Oikawa's expression revealed a mix of uncertainty and determination as he watched the new player take his place.

'Interesting... Let's see what this new guy can do...' (y/n) thought to herself, her curiosity piqued.

The rally continued, and Oikawa decided to set the ball for Kindaichi, expecting a solid play. However, the new player, Kyoutani, unexpectedly claimed the set, shoving Kindaichi aside and aggressively spiking the ball down with incredible power.

Aoba Johsai seemed to transform into an entirely different team with Kyoutani on the court, their dynamics shifting noticeably.

But, luckily for Karasuno, Kyoutani's impressive spike went out of bounds. With that, Karasuno clinched the first set of the match, their hard work and newfound skills on full display. The crowd erupted in cheers as the players regrouped, their eyes set on the challenges that lay ahead in this intense showdown.