Rooks, Knights and Bravehearts - The Sagu Aoyama Universe Crossover Series

[Sherwin Riga]

Volume 2 is almost done as Chapter 23 will be posted tonight. Chapter 24 will be on Wednesday, November 29 and Special Chapter 2 will be on Friday, December 1. While I was stuck on Chapter 25, I was planning to add new characters that will be representing Orange and Fuchsia, Innocent Charm and Team Aurora as they will be appeared on Chapter 25 while the members of Ginga’s Pupils will be appeared on Chapter 27. Apparently, I will be keeping an eye on the plans and ideas to do and then, I will update it once the new chapters are done. So, here is Chapter 23 and it is the second part of The Family of Blue Stars. Enjoy!:)

Akiko, Ran and Risa were together to play in a basketball game every time after the class and they won against some of their friends. Later, in an encounter between Akiko and her team against Team Nagasaki, Akiko finally powers up as she uses her new signature move Dazzling Gleam. Later, Team Blue and Yellow and Team Takeda returns as the afternoon activities will be started. It seems that Akiko finally performs her new move after she and her team won the match against Team Nagasaki and she is finally waited to play alongside Michiko and her teammates at the Hasegawa Cup. On the other hand, the Dazzled Hearts have their new members including Hideki Eda and Kōsuke Hasegawa. Also, a practice match between Dazzled Hearts and Team Blue and Yellow happened to see who the best big man is: Hideki Eda or Hiroto Makara.

VOLUME 2: “FRIENDS AND RELATIONS”
CHAPTER 23: “THE FAMILY OF BLUE STARS” (PART 2)​

On the next day, Team Miyazaki and Team Nagasaki play in a three-on-three match. Both teams have tied the game at 11 with one minute remaining.

“You can do it, Akiko!” said Tomoka.

“Go, Team Nagasaki!” said the members of Team Nagasaki.

Akiko currently holds the ball as she catches it from her teammate Satsuki Ōkuma. Natsuki Sakura and Satsuki Ōkuma were from section 6-B and they will be going to remain in Keishin rather than transferring. Akiko would do the jump shot and the ball drives in to the basket. Akiko’s team regains the lead by 2.

“It’s not over yet, team! Let’s finish this once and for all!” said Risa.

“Okay!” said Ran and Atsuko.

“Wow! Your friends are doing well since the intramurals” said Airi.

“Of course, Airi. Like Tomoka’s classmates, they are very good in cooking and in basketball. They most likely to play and while exhausting, they recharged” said Saki.

“I think they are very intelligent with their basketball skills since they found something since you let them use the Ice Age” said Airi.

“Oh, Airi, I trained them to have the shooting skills and defensive skills improve. Also, Ice Age is only what you see directions, but to aim high with the range of shooting” said Saki.

“Yeah, Saki. I’m probably gonna wait to see play for the Hasegawa Cup” said Airi.

“Indeed” said Saki.

Atsuko passes the ball to Risa as Risa would move past Satsuki and Natsuki. Risa would do the hook shot to tie the game once again. It seems that Risa and Akiko were stronger as expected like Naoko and Kanae.

“Akiko seems to be happy with her new skill, but still she need to finish the game with one last shot” said Maho.

“Of course, Maho. I would expect to see a match between the two teams in the tournament” said Tomoka.

“Tomoka, I believe that the boys’ tournament will have at least 6 teams and also, since Team Kikuchi will be with us to affiliate, they will bring my boys today” said Natsuhi.

“That’s great! I wonder who will come” said Tomoka.

“Well, my classmates are confirmed to play for Team Kikuchi and I would expect a union between our team and Team Kikuchi” said Natsuhi.

“That’s going to make Team Kikuchi favorites to win the tournament. Nice thinking what you have for our classmates, Natsuhi” said Tomoka.

“Hey! I think it’s almost over and Akiko is awaiting to finish the game with the Dazzling Gleam again. She scores all of it” said Natsuhi.

“Whoa! You’re kidding, Natsuhi?” said Maho.

“Of course!” said Natsuhi.

With only ten seconds remaining, Akiko needs to finish the game by shooting the floater. She would do that, but Risa blocks the shot and the game is over with both teams tie the game.

The whistle was heard, and the score was tied at 13. Both teams were exhausted, and Akiko and Risa were using their towels to remove the sweat they have.

“Tomoka! Saki! Do you think you can extend the game for three minutes?” asked Akiko.

“Okay!” said Saki and Tomoka.

“Hinata! Say to Subaru that we should extend this game” said Saki.

“You got it!” said Hinata. She would ask Subaru to extend the game. “Subaru, can you extend the game for three minutes?”

“Okay! The game is extended in three minutes” said Subaru.

“Wow! The game is not over yet and since they’re tired already, we don’t know who will walk away as the winners of this game” said Maho.

“Thanks, Subaru!” said Saki.

“Alright, we will have a five-minute break before the game is back in action” said Tomoka.

“Okay!” said the members of Team Miyazaki and Team Nagasaki.

Meanwhile, Team Blue and Yellow is back after a day off and it seems that they are in the garden, waiting to see the other teams to come. The game is ongoing and the members of Team Blue and Yellow would watch the game as well. Team Takeda and Team Gotō aren’t here yet. They will be here later afternoon.

Team Blue and Yellow: Composed of three teams
Team Sugisaki: Naoko Sugisaki, Kyōsuke Fumizaki, Asumi Ishida, Haruyo Kusaka, Tarō Matsuba, Saori Minagawa, Kishō Ogata, Hiroshi Yamanaka and Miori Misawa
Team Kikuchi: Daisuke Kikuchi, Tsutomu Fukada, Yoshinori Toshima, Akitsugu Wakui, Hiroto Makara, Ryūichi Kitajō and Hideo Akiyama
Team Minato: Kanae Hashimoto, Kazumi Tanaka and Yukari Uchida

“I hope you are all here to watch an exhibition game. By the way, you found new members too!” said Maho.

“Yep. This is Hiroto Makara, Ryūichi Kitajō and Hideo Akiyama. They’re from section 6-D and they’re going to stay in Keishin for middle school” said Daisuke.

“Since we have our boys’ team completed, now we’re going to compete for the tournament” said Kyōsuke.

“That’s great! I think you are all cleared to compete for the boys’ tournament. I will be glad to see playing in the tournament. Of course, since five players are enough to create a team” said Maho.

“I hope that we’re going to have our practice game on Saturday before the qualifiers on Monday” said Kishō.

“I would tell you, Maho. Since the six of us will be playing for the tournament, Daisuke will be coaching while Tsutomu, Yoshinori and Akitsugu will play as well. It will be fun to watch us winning” said Kyōsuke.

“Oh, I would glad to face off against our team” said Hinata.

“The fifth graders? Well, I believe that they are Mimi’s friends and I hope they’ll find some new members” said Kyōsuke.

“Yeah” said Hinata.

“What would your plan to win, Hiroto?” asked Kyōsuke.

“I will show the opponents our style of shooting with one hand” said Hiroto.

“See, Maho. These new members are ready!” said Kyōsuke.

“That’s great! Hey, I think the game is about to resume. So, we’ll see what happens in overtime” said Maho.

Team Miyazaki and Team Nagasaki were back in the court as the extra time begins with Akiko defending the ball against Risa. Akiko then passes the ball to Natsuki. Natsuki never score for her team since Akiko scores all of them. She would shoot the ball on Ran and the ball drives in to the basket. Team Miyazaki finally have another player to score and the score is now 15-13.

“They did it! I think Akiko’s teammates finally got an improvement. Akiko needs her teammates to shoot” said Tomoka.

“I guess Team Miyazaki gains the lead since the overtime begin” said Maho.

“These players are most likely to step up for Family of Angels” said Tomoka.

“Yep” said Maho.

Ran passes the ball to Atsuko and the latter moves past Natsuki and she tried to tie the game. But the ball bounces off and Natsuki gets the rebound, bringing her team a chance to score another point. Natsuki passes the ball to Satsuki. She would shoot the ball and the ball enters to the basket, allowing Team Miyazaki to lead by four points.

“Wow! They proved them to be stronger than them” said Saki.

“I think Akiko’s teammates are stepping up. I wish Michiko and Jun will see her performance, but they aren’t here yet” said Tomoka.

“We should have a twenty-minute break once the game is over” said Saki.

“Oh, yeah. That way, they will cool off from the game” said Tomoka.

“Exactly!” said Saki.

Atsuko passes the ball to Risa as she was defended by Akiko. Akiko tries to steal the ball, but Risa made the crossover move as she turned away from Akiko. She would move out of the other players and shoots with the hook shot. The shot was good and the Team Nagasaki cuts Team Miyazaki’s lead to 2.

“Probably Team Nagasaki still gets points, trying to make a comeback” said Airi.

“They won’t give up. We’ll win this game!” said Risa.

“That’s what she says to her teammates” said Saki.

“Well, I guess we’ll see if they will able to regain the lead” said Airi.

“Definitely Team Miyazaki won’t stand a chance to beat Risa and her teammates” said Saki.

Natsuki would try to get past Ran by doing the euro step move and goes the pick and roll action as she tries to convert a jump shot, but the shot was missed, and Ran gets the rebound. Then, she goes the fast break.

“Catch, Risa!” said Ran as she throws the ball.

“There goes my fastbreak secret” said Maho. Risa would get the ball from Ran.

“Thanks!” said Risa as she now dribbles the ball.

Risa would do the hook shot to score for her team and the game is tied at 15. The game is about to be over with one minute remaining.

“Come on, Akiko! You should show your pride” said Tomoka.

“Okay!” said Akiko as she turns to her teammates to nod to each other.

“Risa! Ran! Atsuko! Watch those moves!” said Saki.

“Okay!” said Risa, Ran and Atsuko.

The game continues to Satsuki now dribbles the ball and then she does the turnaround move where she forces Atsuko to immobilize. Then, Satsuki was guarded by Risa and Ran.

“Oh, no! I need an opening!” said Satsuki.

“Here, Satsuki!” said Akiko.

“But I can’t. I need to do something” said Satsuki.

“Okay! Just try not to miss the shot when you do it” said Akiko.

“Right!” said Satsuki.

Satsuki steps back to shoot the ball using the three-point shot as closes her eyes while doing it. The ball would drive in to the basket and Team Miyazaki scores three points to regain their lead.

“Yes! I made it, Akiko! I did a three-point shot while closing my eyes” said Satsuki.

“That’s nice! Now we have a three-point lead, there’s no chance to make Team Nagaski a three-point shot back” said Akiko.

“Yeah!” said Satsuki and Natsuki.

“I think the game is about to be over with Akiko’s team going to win” said Hinata.

“Yep. I’m glad to see my friends getting momentum in the last minute” said Tomoka.

“Of course! Akiko, Natsuki and Satsuki have maintained their game in the intramural competition while we’re resting. It means that their stamina and speed never run out in her team this time” said Saki.

“Whoa, that explanation seems to be the point that Akiko uses stamina to run faster as she could” said Tomoka.

“Yes, of course!” said Saki.

Ran passes the ball to Atsuko as Atsuko was defended by Satsuki. Satsuki tries to steal the ball to seal the game with a shot, but she and Ran would move back to prevent Ran from shooting at one range. Ran passes the ball to Risa and Satsuki tries to steal it. The ball now belongs to Risa as she shoots the ball with a three and the ball drives in to the basket and the score was tied once again. With fifteen seconds left, Team Miyazaki needs to win the game with either two or three points.

“They narrow down to one last possession!” said Maho.

“I think Team Miyazaki needs a miracle to win this game” said Tomoka.

“I suspect Akiko will use her stamina again while her teammates will use her speed like a fastbreak” said Saki.

“Yeah. Akiko will surely need this one” said Tomoka.

“Go Akiko! You can do it!” said Katsuei Kōno, Asami Nakagawa, Miki Akizuki, Kōichi Aoyama and Mito Azaki.

Satsuki passes the ball to Natsuki, then Natsuki moves out of Atsuko and reaches to the key. She passes the ball to Akiko as she and Risa face each other. With the time is running out, Akiko faces fate whether her team will win or lose.

“I have to win the game by shooting the hook shot and once the dust is clear, we’ll win” said Akiko as she goes to shoot the ball over Risa. The ball would drive in to the basket as the game-winning shot was counted in a last second. Team Miyazaki wins the game.

“We made it!” said Akiko as she was tried and exhausted. “We won.”

“Yeah!” said Natsuki and Satsuki as Katsuei Kōno, Asami Nakagawa, Miki Akizuki, Kōichi Aoyama and Mito Azaki went Akiko, Natsuko and Satsuki as they celebrated their team’s win over Team Nagasaki.

“I believe that you did the right shot at the end of the game, Akiko. But I was shocked that you made that shot and I was unfazed. What a great game, Akiko. You showed everything you have since we play each other for the first time” said Risa.

“Risa, I never been play in the varsity team since I’m a cycling expert, but I never got into this game since I played at the intramurals” said Akiko.

“You’re a brave girl, Akiko. I will be pleased with your efforts. I accepted defect” said Risa.

“Yeah, I have no faith in you since you did a great job in defending me many times” said Akiko.

“Yep. Let’s meet again, Akiko” said Risa.

“Okay!” said Akiko. Risa and Akiko would shake their hands to each other as a symbol of sportsmanship. It looks like Team Miyazaki’s true form was completed and the Family of Angels wanted to see Team Miyazaki a big group. Hopefully, they will see them later on as Tomoka calls everyone a twenty-minute break.

Later, Team Hosoya is back in the mansion as Team Katayama reunites with them at the garden. Team Katayama must have left the game to see their counterparts of Team Purple.

“I’m so glad that we’re seeing each other again” said Himeko.

“Yes, Himeko. Our parents have decided to give us freedom to visit the resort hotel after we stayed at the hotel for a few days” said Ichiro.

“So, what’s the news, Himeko?” asked Sōichi.

“Today’s the gathering of the teams for the Hasegawa Cup. All of us will represent for Team Purple and the Bravehearts Group” said Himeko.

“Oh, I believe that we’re representing Team Purple at the Hasegawa Cup and since we’re varsity members of the team, we’ll automatically play for the tournament” said Toshiya.

“That’s right, Toshiya” said Mizuko.

“So, what are doing here right now, Himeko?” asked Sōichi.

“We’re watching the game between Akiko’s team and Risa’s team. When the game is about to be over, I saw you at the garden waving hands to see us” said Himeko.

“Well, we greeted you to say hi while the game is on” said Ichiro.

“I see. Then, let’s buy some drinks at the Recreational Center” said Himeko.

“Yeah!” said the members of Team Purple.

Part 2 will be on the next post.

 

[Sherwin Riga]

"The Family of Blue Stars (Part 2)" Part 2

Meanwhile, Tomoka, Subaru and Team Miyazaki were walking to the garden as they’re waiting for Team Takeda and Team Gotō. Few minutes later, Team Takeda arrives at the gate of the mansion where they saw Tomoka, Subaru and Team Miyazaki.

“Tomoka!” said Michiko.

“Michiko!” said Tomoka. The two hugged each other as Team Miyazaki and Team Takeda met each other for the first time.

Family of Angels: Composed of three teams
Team Gotō: Anzu Ogi, Nanako Funatani, Dairoku Kaji, Hitomi Takao, Masami Nojima, Kyōji Nogami and Masanobu Uehara
Team Takeda: Michiko Takeda, Nami Tamayama, Kotoe Kano, Megumi Kadokawa, Ayane Shirakawa, Haruko Kōyama, Kozue Hanabusa and Aika Sagawa
Team Miyazaki: Akiko Miyazaki, Natsuki Sakura, Satsuki Ōkuma, Katsuei Kōno, Asami Nakagawa, Miki Akizuki, Kōichi Aoyama and Mito Azaki

“I can’t believe that Team Takeda are now ready, Tomoka” said Subaru.

“Yeah!” said Tomoka. “She’ll be ready to compete in the cup. I hope she will step up for her team. Right, Michiko?”

“Yeah, Tomoka!” said Michiko.

“As you can see, Akiko had created a new team to become members of the Family of Angels” said Subaru.

“Michiko, I hope you’re ready to have some training later on” said Akiko.

“Yeah!” said Michiko.

Later, Subaru, Tomoka, Team Miyazaki and Team Takeda were walking to the Recreational Center after getting some drinks at the mansion.

“So, Tomoka, how’s your friends?” asked Michiko.

“My teammates helped the members with the training and Team Miyazaki had played its first game, which they won” said Tomoka.

“Wow! I can’t wait to see Team Miyazaki on the game, but since the Family of Angels allows new members before reaching the deadline tomorrow, I’ll accept the members of Team Miyazaki to join our team” said Michiko.

“Really?” asked the members of Team Miyazaki.

“Yep. You can count on us when we have our game” said Michiko.

“Okay!” said the members of Team Miyazaki.

“Wow! Now, you can have training with the new members. I hope they’ll help you out to win games” said Tomoka.

“Okay!” said the members of Team Katayama and Team Miyazaki.

“Well, then, time to gather the other teams to plan for the Hasegawa Cup” said Subaru.

“Yeah!” said Tomoka and the members of Team Katayama and Team Miyazaki. Tomoka, Subaru and the members of Family of Angels also went to the Recreational Center at the Misawa Resort Hotel.

The gathering of teams would begin with the Family of Angels, Team Blue and Yellow, Dazzled Hearts and Team Purple are at the Recreational Center along with Subaru and his friends.

“Everyone! This is our meeting place for the gathering” said Subaru.

“Right now, there are three groups confirmed to play for the Hasegawa Cup and since we have Team Balguerie and Team Purple in the main tournament, we need for teams to participate at the Hasegawa Cup on March 30 to 31” said Aoi.

“Of course, there will three more groups to arrive as Innocent Charm, Team Hayashida and a team composed of associates of Mimi and Kagetsu from other sections will arrive tomorrow morning” said Banri.

“It appears that Team Hayashida had called some students from sections 6-F & 6-G of the sixth grade and 5-F& 5-G of the fifth grade to form the team, but Airi said that they’ll reveal the name tomorrow” said Satsuki.

“Also, the Dazzled Hearts will add some new members from section 5-E & 5-F as they’ll also come tomorrow for the finalization of rosters of teams for the Hasegawa Cup” said Satsuki.

“Now, with the qualifiers will be held on Monday, we’ll have the drawing of lots after an All-Star match between the Keishin Academy Basketball Team against the leaders of each team. The draw will depend on who will be facing for the Hasegawa Cup, which has four spots to represent the Bravehearts Group” said Kazunari.

“For today, it will be divided into five groups and I believe that Team Gotō will be here by three and I think we will be safe. So, let’s wait for Team Gotō for the members of Family of Angels to play. Everyone, let’s split up” said Subaru.

“Okay!” said the members of the Team Purple, Team Balguerie, Family of Angels, Team Blue and Yellow and Dazzled Hearts.

The five groups were divided as the five teams will use their basketball courts as their practice ground in preparation for the Hasegawa Cup.

One the first court, Team Hasegawa, Team Balguerie and Team Purple were training together at first court of the Basketball Grounds at the Misawa Resort Hotel.

Team Hasegawa: Students of Nashiba High School
Nashiba High School Basketball Team: Subaru Hasegawa, Aoi Ogiyama, Banri Kashii, Kazunari Uehara, Satsuki Kakizono and Tae Mishōji
Keishin Academy: Ginga Hasegawa and Mihoshi Takamura

Team Bravehearts: Mimi Balguerie, Kagetsu Hakamada, Masami Fujii, Tsubaki Takenaka and Hiiragi Takenaka
Staff: Tomoka Minato, Saki Nagatsuka, Airi Kashii, Hinata Hakamada and Maho Misawa

Team Purple: Composed of two teams
Team Katayama (girls): Himeko Katayama, Mizuko Fujisaki, Yuka Suehiro, Chiyako Kayama, Hana Mikimoto, Asuka Yokoi and Kana Hanaoka
Team Hosoya (boys): Ichiro Hosoya, Sōichi Maeyama, Toshiya Shimura, Masafumi Mitamura and Hisamitsu Tsuchida

Subaru let the members of Team Purple practice with their shooting skills and defending skills. The boys will do the shooting skills and the girls will do the defending skills.

On the left side of the court, the boys (Ichiro Hosoya, Sōichi Maeyama, Toshiya Shimura, Masafumi Mitamura and Hisamitsu Tsuchida) were trained by Subaru Hasegawa, Banri Kashii and Kazunari Uehara as they are doing shooting practice.

“Come on, boys! Keep going!” said Subaru as the boys do their warmup shooting practice together with one player to another.

“Good! Now, let’s shoot the ball with your positions assigned by Banri” said Subaru.

“Okay, boys! Now, go!” said Banri as he used the whistle to let the boys to shoot at the position they were assigned.

The boys have a mix of reactions when shooting the ball. Some of the shots were bad while the others were good. The shooting practice was one of the practices that they need to be good in shooting.

After the whistle was heard, the boys were done shooting their balls. The boys were called by Subaru, Kazunari and Banri for the meeting.

“Okay, boys! I want you to make sure that your shooting skills were good in the game and while trying to shoot the ball, aim at the basket” said Subaru.

“Okay!” said Ichiro, Sōichi, Toshiya, Masafumi and Hisamitsu.

“I’m good at that!” said Ichiro.

“Yeah, me too!” said Toshiya as other members (Sōichi, Masafumi and Hisamitsu) were agreed to what Ichiro and Toshiya said.

“Good!” said Kazunari.

“We should continue practicing your shooting skills” said Banri.

“Okay!” said Ichiro, Sōichi, Toshiya, Masafumi and Hisamitsu.

The boys went back to their positions to prepare shooting the ball.

“Now, shoot!” said Subaru as the boys begin shooting their ball at the position they assigned.

On the other side of the Court #1, Team Balguerie and Team Katayama were playing each other as Himeko and her teammates have become defenders, trying to steal or block the ball from the attacking team, which is Team Balguerie.

Masami passes the ball to Tsubaki as the latter faces off against Chiyako.

“All you have to do is to call for zone defense” said Hinata.

“Make sure that you need to call your teammates to guard the opponents simultaneously” said Aoi.

“Okay!” said Chiyako. Then, she calls her teammates to call for zone teammates. “Team, defense!”

“Okay!” said Himeko, Mizuko, Yuka and Hana. The four would form a defensive play that allows the players from Team Balguerie to do some alternative ways to stop the zone defense.

“Great! Now, Chiyako try box-and-one defense” said Satsuki.

“Okay!” said Chiyako.

“Catch, Mimi!” said Tsubaki.

“Okay! Now!” said Mimi as Tsubaki throws the ball to her and the ball lands to Mimi. Himeko and Hana would do the boxing where the play should be counted as defensive vs. offensive plan.

“Well, Himeko, the defense of yours are good. I will make sure that your boxing defense works” said Mimi.

“Okay” said Himeko.

“You surely need to defend the court, Himeko. Try to make sure Mimi can’t shoot” said Satsuki.

“Okay!” said Himeko.

Himeko use her hands to prevent Mimi from shooting or passing the ball. Then, Mimi stops her play where she sees Kagetsu, who was guarded by Hana.

“Kagetsu, catch!” said Mimi.

“I will stop you!” said Hana as she tried to steal the ball from Mimi. Mimi throws the ball to Kagetsu and Hana fails to steal it and was immobilized, allowing Kagetsu to shoot the ball from the key. The shot was good as Team Balguerie scores its two points.

“Trying to stop us with your defensive tactics? Well, I guess you missed something” said Mimi.

“What is missing?” asked Himeko.

“Your players aren’t lucky because one of your members try to move out of your attacker to get the steal, but it doesn’t happen not like the other players did” said Mimi.

“I supposed that I want to defend you” said Himeko.

“Okay, but let’s try that again” said Mimi.

“Sure” said Himeko.

Mimi now dribbles the ball and was guarded by Himeko after Himeko score two points for her team.

“Defense!” said Himeko.

“Okay!” said Hana, Mizuko, Chiyako and Yuka as they are defending the court by trying to get the steal.

“So, you’re attempting to steal the ball?” Well, I guess I will pass the ball to my teammates, but let’s see if that works” said Mimi.

“Okay, then go!” said Hinata.

“Now!” said Mimi as she passes the ball to Kagetsu. Hana goes on to squeeze the offense of Kagetsu as Kagetsu can’t find the opening.

“It worked!” said Hana.

“Good! Now, you can try not to reach in” said Himeko.

“Okay!” said Hana as she will try not to reach in the ball, in which she will receive a foul.

Kagetsu would go pump fake as Hana can’t steal the ball. After which, the fake works and Kagetsu passes the ball to Hiiragi, who runs on the baseline. Hiiragi would shoot the ball and Yuka tries to block it. Hiiragi’s shot was missed and Mizuko gets the rebound.

“Wow, these girls are great defenders!” said Hiiragi.

“Yeah. I think we should defend ourselves” said Tsubaki.

“Okay!” said Hiiragi.

Mizuko passes the ball to Yuka while the latter being guarded by Hiiragi.

“Now, I’ll show you our zone defense!” said Hiiragi.

“Okay!” said Tsubaki and Masami as they along with Mimi and Kagetsu to create the zone defense. Hiiragi grinned when the zone works.

“I can’t pass the ball to any of my players, but I have to fake myself” said Yuka.

Yuka would do the pump fake and she tries to shoot the ball, but Tsubaki blocks the ball, which causes the ball to go to Hiiragi. Hiiragi then runs the offense.

“Let’s go offense, girls!” said Hiiragi.

“Okay!” said Tsubaki, Masami, Mimi and Kagetsu.

The girls would do the run-and-gun offense while Himeko and others would change the zone from box-and-one defense to 2-3 zone defense.

“They changed the defense. Now’s our chance!” said Kagetsu.

“Okay!” said Hiiragi as she passes the ball to Kagetsu. Kagetsu was guarded by Hana. Then, she was able to do the fake on Hana and shoots the ball with the three-point jumper. The shot was a success and Mimi’s team gets the lead back.

“Great job, Kagetsu!” said Hinata.

“Thanks, sister! I have been shooting three-point shots since Masami let me practice yesterday” said Kagetsu.

“Keep it up!” said Hinata.

“Okay!” said Kagetsu.

“I think our defensive zone was differed from theirs and at least we were able to block them” said Hiiragi.

“Yeah, Hiiragi” said Mimi.

The game continues to play with Team Katayama tries to master their zone defense, so that their opponents would receive turnovers.

Meanwhile, Dazzled Hearts and Team Blue and Yellow would play in an exhibition game on the second court. Team Blue and Yellow have Kyōsuke, Kishō, Hiroto, Ryūichi and Hideo, who wearing their dark blue color shirt, while the Dazzled Hearts have Yoshitsugu, Tadamoto, Kōsuke, Yūki and Hideki, who were wearing their light blue color shirt.

Dazzled Hearts: Composed of four teams
Team Nagasaki: Ran Mikazuki, Risa Nagasaki, Yoshitsugu Nakagawa, Aoi Otsuji and Kana Yamada, Kōsuke Hasegawa, Akinori Mitobe and Yūki Ando
Team Maeyama: Atsuko Maeyama, Shizuko Ōhata, Tadamoto Inoue, Minami Kihara, Miho Ōsawa, Yoshiko Shindō, Akihiro Hata and Hideki Eda
Team Matsuda: Mieko Matsuda, Shiori Satō, Jirō Kitagawa and Katsuko Miyazawa
Team Misawa: Kyoko Hiraki and Yurika Akagawa
Team Shimojō: Ken Yamamoto, Aya Shimojō, Shinobu Higashimura, Sukehiro Gotō, Takahiro Sugihara and Keiko Hosada
Staff: Akira Nagatsuka and Masako Fujii

“The observation of the two teams will test their players to see how their strengths and weakness will work out in the game” said Maho.

“Where’s Airi?” asked Saki.

“She’s with Aya to call her friends. Team Hayashida will form another group for the incoming sixth graders while adding some more members for the boys. They’ll be here tomorrow along with Innocent Charm” said Miori.

“Oh, I guess Team Hayashida is planning to form a team soon with the incoming sixth graders. That’s great!” said Saki.

“Maho! Saki! Miori! I’m done calling with my friends and they will finalize the group tomorrow when they’ll come” said Airi.

“Also, Yōko said that her friends will visit at the mansion tomorrow” said Aya.

“Good! Think about the fifth group will be formed for Airi’s friends after the four groups have formed earlier. I wonder what would be in store for the team to add the group” said Maho.

“Maho, I heard that another team composed of associates to Kagetsu and Mimi to be formed. They came from sections 5-D & 5-E and their leader is Hanako Kotobuki” said Saki.

“They’ll be joining the Bravehearts as they’re one of the groups that don’t have the members of the Keishin Academy basketball team nor their friends” said Akira.

“Now, with all of these will register their rosters tomorrow, we’re all set for the tournament, but I think there will be a surprise announcement from the Innocent Charm” said Masako.

“Yeah, we’ll have to find out tomorrow. But for now, I think the game is about to begin” said Airi.

“Yeah, Airi. Looks like the boys are ready to play” said Saki.

“Let’s who will win in this match” said Maho.

“I don’t know, but we’ll definitely find out” said Akira.

Daisuke prepares the ball to go for jump ball. Kōsuke and Hiroto would jump and Kōsuke touches the ball to pass it to Hideki. Hideki would pass the ball to Yoshitsugu. Yoshitsugu trust the ball as he passes the ball to Yūki.

“So, Kishō. This is our first time we meet, but I hope who will win in this match” said Yūki.

“I can’t wait to see how it goes, Yūki. Let’s play hard to see who the toughest team is” said Kishō.

“Okay!” said Yūki.

Yūki and Kishō move together to get more space while trying to see who the faster small forward is.

Kishō would prepare his boys to do the zone defense.

“Your defensive play is good, but would you think it will work? Let’s see if my offensive strategy will apply to your team” said Yūki.

Yūki would move past Kishō as he would shoot the ball with the floater. The ball drives in to the basket and Team Eda scores the first two points.

“What an impressive floater!” said Atsuko.

“He’s very agile like Saki and always breezing in to his teammates” said Risa.

“Since Hideki is the power forward, he can defend against the shots of Kyōsuke” said Ran.

“I hope when the defensive play comes, we’ll make sure that Kishō’s teammates won’t make it” said Yoshiko.

Kyōsuke passes the ball to Ryūichi. He then guards out the defense of Yoshitsugu. He was quite faster than his teammates as he moves out of his opponents, and he goes on an alley-oop to pass the ball to Kyōsuke. Kyōsuke would do the dunk as Team Ogata ties the game.

“That’s a good alley-oop!” said Saori.

“The two of them were good in guarding and shooting. I believe they’re having a potential to play in the community league soon” said Naoko.

“They’re trained by Maho and Natsuhi and they never miss anything” said Asumi.

“You’re right, Asumi. They’ll definitely work fast” said Hiroshi.

The next play comes as Yūki passes the ball to Tadamoto. Tadamoto was guarded by Kyōsuke and Hideo because the double team made by Natsuhi.

“I won’t miss this time!” said Tadamoto.

He passes the ball to Hideki. Hideki was faster than Kishō’s teammates because of his high level of acceleration. He would be met by Hiroto. Hiroto and Hideki were centers and each of them will test their powers to see who the strongest center is.

“The zone defense and the man-to-man defense were used by Shintarō Fujita, Natsuhi’s team head coach. The players were good at the time when the playbook was used to penetrate the offense of their own” said Akitsugu.

“I research the different kinds of zone defenses and plays that our head coach use. I believe that Team Ogata will work out with all of their players are good in defense” said Daisuke.

Hiroto and Hideki were stronger as they were having their same level as Kagetsu. Hideki would pump fake while Hiroto moves back. Hideki would shoot the ball with the lay-up and the shot was good.

“Hideki makes it! He’s the strongest centers in our team unlike the other players who aren’t part of the varsity team” said Ran.

“It’s true that Hideki was a very strong student and when he played for section 6-A, he believes that his role as a center would never stop against his opponents” said Risa.

“He always worked out with Banri and I think he’s gaining his shooting skills and his muscles were able to be more flexible than before” said Atsuko.

Kishō would pass the ball to Ryūichi, who would later be guarded by Yoshisugu. Yoshisugu was a good point guard and a trust friend of Saki. He calls his teammate Tadamoto to call for the steal. As Ryūichi throws the ball, Tadamoto tips in, but Hiroto gets it.

“Wow! Hiroto is doing very well with his own arms are protecting from injuries” said Maho.

“I believe you’re right, Maho. Hiroto has much strength that he can stop his opponents whatever he wants” said Naoko.

“I think that’s why he wanted to make sure that his game would be his” said Maho.

“Of course, Maho” said Naoko.

Hiroto would shoot the ball like the shot Airi did and the shot was good.

“His shooting skills were very good like the other centers did” said Airi.

“I guess that Hiroto was very brave and a talented center to come out in the team” said Saori.

“If Naoko is a small forward while I’m the power forward, then I believe that our frontcourt will be fit for you to create defensive stops” said Asumi.

“Yeah, Asumi. We will make sure that we’ll win the tournament with our strong defense” said Saori.

“I think you’re all excited to play, but I hope your opponents for the qualifiers will be coming from the incoming sixth graders. So, good luck with the game!” said Airi.

“Okay! Thanks, Airi!” said Naoko, Saori and Asumi.

Tadamoto would pass the ball to Hideki while Team Ogata went on defensive mode. Things would get tighter for the two teams with Hideki and Hiroto battle each other. Kishō would involve with the double team works. Hideki would sway them out by doing the turnaround move.

“Wow! He’s fast!” said Kishō and Hiroto. Hideki would perform the layup and the ball drives in to the basket. The score went to Team Eda.

“I’m impressed with your performance, Hideki” said Hiroto.

“Thanks, Hiroto. It wasn’t for you to see how I perform outside the league. I’m thinking that our team works well like your team and the varsity team” said Hideki.

“I realize that you’re a strong big man and I will be thinking if we can determine the best of the two” said Hiroto.

“Okay!” said Hideki.

“You two are strong in the five for both of our teams and Hiroto, I think we should try our offensive plays done” said Kishō.

“You bet, Kisho. So, Hideki, let’s go for another round, but this time, I’m the attacker” said Hiroto.

“Okay!” said Hideki.

“I’m expecting to see both teams competing for the Hasegawa Cup with two giants facing each other” said Natsuhi.

“Well, I guess that Team Blue and Yellow is expected to become a good team when it comes to our help, Natsuhi” said Maho.

“Of course, Maho. I hope that when the tournament comes, they will finally prepare the attack against their opponents” said Natsuhi.

“Yeah” said Maho as smiles on Natsuhi and Natsuhi nod in return.

“Hideki is looked forward to create his own journey despite he’s not from the varsity team” said Saki.

“I can sure that he will play well to defeat his opponents and help his teammates to score” said Airi.

“I’m sure that would happen, Airi. Eventually, our team hopes to bring our strength to win games” said Risa.

“We even think that our team is dominating, but at least we still have our starting five for the Hasegawa Cup” said Akira.

“Of course, Akira. Right, Saki?” said Masako.

“Yes, Masako. They’ll definitely prepare for some competition for these two teams” said Saki. The two teams continue to play as the players have shown their skills as they are hopefully prepared for the Hasegawa Cup. The edification of the teams is what also Keishin Academy Basketball Team needs to improve when they will play without Subaru’s girls: Tomoka, Maho, Saki, Airi and Hinata.

UP NEXT: Chapter 24: "Orphans and Redheads" (Last chapter for Volume 2!:D)

Announcement: Volume 2 Extras will be posted on the first week of December before Volume 3 will start. Thanks for reading and see you on Wednesday for the last chapter of Volume 2!

 

[Sherwin Riga]

The series finally hits 2,000 views!:D Thank you for reading this series! It's been 4 months since I posted the first chapter and it was so nice that I have completed 2 volumes. That's right, readers! Finally, Volume 2 will enter its last chapter as this volume is officially complete. Also, there will be a special chapter to be posted on Friday (December 1) as well as the extras to be posted on the first week of December. I’m finally glad that I also completely write 3 consecutive chapters at the start of Volume 3 which was a great start for me. I hope I will continue writing new chapters soon and I was thinking if I will do an Extra Chapter for Volume 2 featuring the members of Team Gotō. So, enjoy reading Chapter 24!:) This features Jun’s Angels, Team Gotō and Shiromidai Elementary School’s ace Asumi Hiramatsu.

Team Blue and Yellow and Dazzled Hearts have their training in preparing for the Hasegawa Cup. The members of Team Takeda are trained by not only Tomoka and Subaru, but none other than Jun Gotō, the Angels and the ace of Shirmidai Elementary School, Asumi Hiramatsu. This will be the first time that Michiko Takeda reunites with her teammate Asumi since their last encounter at the gym where Michiko bids farewell to her former team before transferring to Kirihara Middle School. The training of the members of Team Takeda took the right direction as they are improving their plays and attributes, in order to win games. Later, the Family of Angels has called their friends to join the group for tomorrow’s deadline of registration of teams.

VOLUME 2: “FRIENDS AND RELATIONS”
CHAPTER 24: “ORPHANS AND REDHEADS”​

Tomoka and the members of Team Takeda and Team Miyazaki were on the third court. Michiko and Akiko are practicing their shooting skills. After Michiko shoot a perfect release of her shot, the balls rolls to the feet of a redhead named Asumi Hiramatsu. Asumi would get the ball as she comes over Michiko.

“Here’s your ball!” said Asumi.

“Oh, thanks” said Michiko. Then, she was shocked to see Asumi Hiramatsu and the members of Team Gotō including Jun’s Angels.

Family of Angels: Composed of four teams
Team Gotō: Anzu Ogi, Nanako Funatani, Dairoku Kaji, Hitomi Takao, Masami Nojima, Kyōji Nogami and Masanobu Uehara
Jun’s Angels: Jun Gotō, Nozomi Momijidani, Sora Kaneshiro, Kyō Nukui, Sakura Toriumi, Kurumi Nukui, Kōme Ogi and Yuzuha Aigae
Team Takeda: Michiko Takeda, Nami Tamayama, Kotoe Kano, Megumi Kadokawa, Ayane Shirakawa, Haruko Kōyama, Kozue Hanabusa and Aika Sagawa
Team Miyazaki: Akiko Miyazaki, Natsuki Sakura, Satsuki Ōkuma, Katsuei Kōno, Asami Nakagawa, Miki Akizuki, Kōichi Aoyama and Mito Azaki

“Oh, Jun! Welcome back!” said Tomoka.

“Hi, Tomoka! Hi, Michiko! Hi, Akiko!” said Jun as the members of Team Gotō have joined the training with Jun’s Angels greet Tomoka hello.

“It’s been a few days since the appreciation party, Jun” said Michiko.

“I hope you are trained well and I finalize the roster for the Hasegawa Cup as I’m representing the Shiromidai Elementary School” said Asumi.

“Oh, you’re joining the cup?” asked Tomoka.

“Yes, Tomoka. Since the Shiromidai Elementary School girls’ basketball team will be joining the Hasegawa Cup, I’ll make sure that the others will see us playing” said Asumi.

“Great! I think your teammates will be here at the Hasegawa Cup” said Michiko.

“Yep, Michiko. They aren’t here, so I will be here for a week” said Asumi.

“Ah, I’ll be glad to see your teammates in the tournament when our members are ready to compete, we’ll hopefully going to battle your team” said Michiko.

“Exactly my point, Michiko” said Asumi.

“Well, I’m currently training Michiko and Akiko to shoot their balls and since you’re here, we should have a drill challenge” said Tomoka.

“Ah, okay!” said Asumi.

Later, the Family of Angels would begin their training as the members begin their first drill: the obstacle course.

“Go! Go! Go! Just show what you got!” said Tomoka, Jun and Kyō.

The members of Family of Angels are running through the cones as they would able to improve their speed in running while on the court.

“Just keep it up!” said Tomoka.

Akiko, Michiko and Anzu would run on the court as the next drill challenge is running around the court. The other members would follow the three by running around the court.

“Faster, guys, faster!” said Kurumi.

It looks like the members of Family of Angels have running well and no one gives up the drills challenge.

Later, the third drill challenge is the around the world shooting drill. Each member will shoot their balls around the key. They need to improve their shooting skills, in order to shoot at the right target.

“Tomoka, I hope the members are doing well. The next challenge will be fast break practice” said Sakura.

“Yeah. I believe that they are ready to take on the fourth challenge, Sakura” said Tomoka.

“Yep. We should be ready for the run” said Sakura.

“Okay!” said Tomoka.

The fourth drill challenge is the fast break practice where the two players will go on offense while the three will go on defense. The players must do this practice to improve their fast break skills during the game.

“Yeah! Good! Keep it up!” said Sora and Nozomi.

Asumi and Michiko were together as they will prepare the fast break practice. Asumi passes the ball to Michiko as she is prepared to go for the fast break where she throws the ball to Asumi with a swift. The swift was so fast Asumi can shoot the ball. Asumi would do the floater over Nami while Megumi and Kotoe show what she did. Asumi was a great shooter like Tomoka and the members of the Family of Angels believe that she is an all-around versatile player that she can shoot at any range.

“I believe that these two were working together this time” said Tomoka.

“Yep. As you can see, these two were teammates in their varsity team, but since Michiko is joining Kirihara on April 1, Asumi will assume her duties as the captain of the team” said Jun.

“Actually, these two were great to be together again. It’s been a while since the semifinals against Tamagawa Elementary School” said Nozomi.

“I hope they will co-exist again since they have a strong relationship between these two. Also, the other teammates will about chase down the opponents in order to win games when they’re together again” said Sora.

“Yeah. I think Anzu, Nanako, Hitomi and Masami were reaching its potential to have a back-up role for Family of Angels. I wonder what would be their style of play they’ll use” said Tomoka.

“They seem to be using their defensive key zone while bringing the Synchronization Skill. They will take out their opponents by force” said Nozomi.

“By force? I guess that would be better to grow its teamwork than being alone” said Jun.

“Exactly!” said Nozomi.

When Asumi did another crossover move to shoot the ball with the jumper, Michiko thinks about trying to copy Asumi’s movements as she wanted to use her signature skill.

“Asumi, I didn’t know you have a secret in your special skill” said Michiko.

“Yes, Michiko. Oh, I forgot that I practice my crossover move in order to make the defender confuse. That way, they won’t steal the ball further” said Asumi.

“I’m sure you’ll know my special skill” said Michiko.

“Yeah, of course” said Asumi.

Michiko and Asumi went to play as Michiko is currently holding the ball. Later, Michiko would to the crossover move and then followed by a turnaround pass to Asami where Asami would do the three-point shot. The shot was good with perfect release.

“How did you do that?” asked Anzu and Hitomi.

“That’s easy. I made my crossover move then followed up with a turnaround pass like a shadow. It’s not definitely the Mirror Copy I got, but it’s my new signature move: the Heartbond Mirage” said Michiko.

“How fast you are, Michiko? I believe that you’re doing this alone when you’re gone in Shiromidai” said Asumi.

“Well, yes, it is” said Michiko.

“See, I told you that Michiko has something new in her mind” said Nami as she taunted Anzu and Hitomi.

“Well, since you’re a good player as well, maybe we should do one-on-one right now” said Anzu.

“Okay, Anzu, but don’t be crazy” said Nami.

“Fine. Let’s do it!” said Anzu.

Nami and Anzu would do a one-on-one match where Nami dribbles the ball. Then, they run as they were determined to see who the fastest. Nami would do the behind the back dribble and she would shoot three-point shot by stepping back on the three-point line. The shot was good as the ball drives in to the basket.

“Wow! Amazing! That was a great crossover move!” said Michiko.

“Thanks, Michiko. I made this when I was playing with Kotoe and this move never made before. So, that’s my signature move: Coveted Heart” said Nami.

“So, I’m impressed with that move, Nami. But I would never expect to see that move during the last year’s Ōta League when I watch your game” said Anzu.

“Well, to do this, my dribbling style could be behind the back or crossover then I will step back to shoot with a jumper” said Nami.

“That’s beautiful! These girls are really ready to take their potential soon” said Tomoka.

“Well, I guess that these members are ready to compete in the Hasegawa Cup, but first, we need a line-up for this” said Jun.

“Oh, okay!” said Tomoka.

Tomoka calls the members of Family of Angels for the meeting.

“So, this is going to be our first meeting of Family of Angels. Actually, this meeting will be all about the starting lineup for the Hasegawa Cup” said Tomoka.

“The cup is four days away and we need to win the qualifying match to enter to the tournament” said Jun.

“So, first, let’s start the coaching staff. Since Tomoka will join Team Balguerie as a member of the coaching staff, I’ll be coaching the Family of Angels” said Kurumi.

“Huh? Do you think it will work sister?” asked Kyō.

“Of course, brother. I will handle this. After all, I’m the student council president” said Kurumi.

“So, you’re always on my side, Kurumi. You made the ticket along with Jun during the last election” said Kyō.

“Yep. And also, I’ll help you no matter what you want, and I’ll be lucky if you’ll be my assistant” said Kurumi.

“Sure, Kurumi” said Kyō.

“Well, okay, Kurumi and Kyō. I’ll let Kyō to be the team captain for the boys’ team and for the girls, it will be Michiko to be the captain of their team” said Jun.

“It will be an honor to take my responsibilities as the captain of the team” said Michiko.

“Okay, Michiko. Since you’re the shooting guard, I will be choosing the rest of it. Nami will be in the point guard position, then Akiko on three, Kozue on the four and Satsuki on the five” said Jun.

“That will be our starting lineup for the Family of Angels: Michiko, Nami, Akiko, Kozue and Satsuki” said Tomoka.

“Okay! For the boys, we have Kyō on the shooting guard position, Katsuei on the one, Mito on the three, Dairoku on the four and Kōichi on the five” said Jun.

“Since there are seven members in our boys’ team, Kyōji and Masanobu will play on any minute when any member is exhausted from the game. Kyōji will be the back-up player for me and Masanobu will be backing up Mito” said Kyō.

“That would complete the boys’ roster while for the girls’ roster, this will be take too long to find the spots for the reserves” said Kurumi.

“Now, for the reserve spots, Natsuki will be backing Nami, Kotoe will be backing Michiko, Megumi will be backing Kozue, Anzu and Masami will be backing Akiko and Asami will be backing Satsuki. They will be playing between the second and third quarter if any “starting five” member was exhausted” said Sora.

“You know what, when the team maintain its lead, we should keep the starting five. That way, they will be subbed at the start of the second half before returning to the final quarter” said Kōme.

“Oh, that would be a great idea, Kōme. I really want to make sure that they’ll be prepared to play at that start of the quarter. Beautiful passes and great shooting will allow us to dominate the game” said Kurumi.

“Yes, of course, Kurumi. I hope my sister will play for the first time” said Kōme.

“See, they will be fine, Kōme. Jun recruited them because they will be in Kirihara Middle School starting next week” said Kurumi.

“Well, that would be great if I will be in Kirihara next year along with you and the Angels” said Kōme.

“Oh, I hope we could enroll in Kirihara next year, but we’ll see about that” said Kurumi.

“Then it’s all set! We should be ready for the tournament and when the dust was cleared, we would be become victors of the tournament” said Jun.

“That’s all for the meeting! So, we should continue our training, then later, we’ll have dinner tonight. Are all guys ready?” said Tomoka.

“Yes!” said the members of Family of Angels.

“Then, let’s continue our training!” said Tomoka.

“Yeah!” said the members of Family of Angels as the Family of Angels will continue their training like the other teams did.

Part 2 will be on the next post.

 

[Sherwin Riga]

"Orphans and Redheads" Part 2

Later, the redheads (Asumi (SF), Anzu (PF), Asami (C), Miki (PG) and Kozue (PF)) were prepared to play against Tomoka, Michiko, Jun, Kōme and Akiko. Jun never plays basketball along with the Angels, but this would be the first time that she will play she will be playing as a point guard.

Jun was guarded by Miki while dribbling the ball, then she passes the ball to Tomoka. When Tomoka see Michiko with an opponent, she passes the ball to Michiko. Michiko would do the jumper while Asumi tries to block her shot. Michiko’s shot was good as Michiko’s team scores two points.

“I never expected to see that play before, but since Tomoka, Michiko and Jun were playing together, they will be probably going to win this match” said Kyō.

“I agree” said Kurumi.

Kozue passes the ball to Asumi as the defense of Michiko’s team starts to tighten Asumi’s team. Then, she did the crossover move on Michiko and steps back as she prepares to shoot a three-point shot.

“Not gonna happen, Asumi!” said Tomoka as she blocks Asumi’s shot. The ball went to Jun as she went to the baseline where she will shoot the ball with a layup with her opponents try to stop her. The ball would drive in to the basket, despite Kozue tries to block it. The score is now 4-0 for Team Angels.

“Wow! Jun did a layup behind two opponents. I never see that before” said Kurumi.

“Jun had never play basketball until when Tomoka decided to let her join with her friends to play together. When Tomoka left, Jun didn’t play basketball again until she reconsiders come out of hiatus” said Sora.

“That way, Jun plans to play basketball with Tomoka again since Tomoka became stronger than before. She came out better with her friends and us like Tomoka and her teammates did” said Nozomi.

“I really like Tomoka and Jun playing together, but at least we should have our team for the council” said Yuzuha.

“Oh, you’re right, Yuzuha. I’m definitely ready to play basketball for the first time in my school life” said Kurumi.

“Yeah!” said Sora, Nozomi and Yuzuha, grinning to Kurumi.

The score is now 6-2 after Team Redheads and Team Angels score their baskets. Asumi passes the ball to Anzu and the latter was guarded by her sister Kōme. Both of them were tall and they can be able to block their shots.

“So, it’s a battle between the two of us” said Anzu.

“Yeah, sister. I think you should be ready to be beaten” said Kōme.

“Not yet, Kōme” said Anzu as she would do the euro step on her sister. After this, Anzu would do the layup and the shot was good. The lead is back to two points.

“Are you planning to enroll at Kirhara next year, sister?” asked Anzu.

“Not sure yet, sister, but if Jun and her bandmates enroll, Kurumi, Yuzuha and I will enroll” said Kōme.

“Great!” said Anzu. “Then, let’s play together, sister!”

“Sure, Anzu!” said Kōme as they smile to each other while Jun passes the ball to Tomoka, who faced one-on-one against Asumi.

“Tomoka, this will be our first match for us since you left us last year” said Asumi.

“Actually, this isn’t my first time to face you, but I’m assured that you’re the Redhead Comet” said Tomoka.

“Why, of course, Tomoka. I will be glad to know about your skills” said Asumi.

“Yeah, me too, I wanna know your skills” said Tomoka.

“You wanna know?” asked Asumi.

“Yes, Asumi, but first I will step up with my move” said Tomoka as she moves past Asumi and getting past on Kozue and Anzu. She would shoot the floater and the ball drives in to the basket. The score is now 8-4 for Team Angels.

With three minutes remaining, Team Angels are looking forward to dominating the game and on the other hand, Team Redheads are trying to recover.

“I realize that Tomoka and Asumi were good in playing basketball, but since they have the same level, they will be gaining its potential with their moves are better than last year” said Nozomi.

“This is will be the first time that Tomoka and Asumi were playing against each other since they are good aces in Keishin and Shiromidai. Although Asumi is a fifth grader last year when she became the sixth woman in Shiromidai, she became the new team captain and trying to improve her team’s skills by holding practices and drills” said Sora.

“Asumi and Michiko were close friends, but they were considered rivals because of their characteristics. Michiko’s challenge is to become a rising star in Shiromidai and Asumi’s challenge is to improve her skills taught from Ginga Hasegawa” said Yuzuha.

“You know, Yuzuha, there are many pupils Ginga teaches in training every time he went on a trip. I believe that Asumi will play in Den-en-chōfu in middle school as long as she will master her signature skill: The Comet Shot” said Kurumi.

“Doing that shot will perfect her shot whatever she chooses” said Sakura.

“That’s right, Sakura. I think Asumi is ready to unleash her true form soon” said Nozomi.

“Yeah!” said Sakura.

Asumi and Tomoka were facing each other again, but now Asumi currently holds the ball. Asumi would do the behind the back dribble and moves past Tomoka. Tomoka gasped when Asumi was quicker to run.

“Asumi had move Tomoka out of her way?” asked Sora.

“This is the same movement that she did to Rena in the district tournament” said Nozomi.

Asumi would do the hook shot and the ball drives in to the basket. The game is now 8-6, still lead by Team Angels.

“You know I was coming, Tomoka. I believe that we have the same level” said Asumi.

“Well, I didn’t know that you learn that move. I thought you have many skills you have” said Tomoka.

“Yep. But, this is what I do when facing against other aces in different schools during the district tournament” said Asumi.

“Oh, you’re impressive, Asumi. I think we should duel one more time” said Tomoka.

“Okay!” said Asumi.

Later, Tomoka dribbles the ball and enter to the low post area. Asumi would try to find out to see what Tomoka would do next. Then, Tomoka gets an idea.

“Well, do you think you’re gonna stop me? Then, how about this!” said Tomoka as she moves past Asumi while going to shoot the ball. Asumi would return trying to block Tomoka’s shot. Then, Tomoka lowers down the ball, considering this a fake and then, she moves back and do the jump shot. The ball would drive in to the basket. Tomoka’s team now leads by four once again with the score of 10-6.

It’s two minutes and sixteen second remaining in the game. Team Redheads and Team Angels would go on to continue the play with passes like Anzu, Kōme, Jun and Asumi while shots made by Jun, Tomoka, Asumi and Anzu. The score is now 14-10.

Now, the game is about to end with thirty-five seconds remaining as Asumi is now on its next possession. Asumi passes the ball to Miki as she was confronted by Michiko. Michiko tries to steal it, but Miki would do the pump fake and shoot the ball. The ball bounces off from the basket and Kōme gets the rebound as she passes the ball to Michiko and it is a fast break with Kōme throws the ball faster without her opponents seeing. Michiko now reaches to the key as she was going to shoot the ball, but Asumi comes from behind and she steals the ball from her.

“Whoa! That was fast!” said Masanobu.

“This is going to be the final possession, but Team Angels may win the game even Asumi will shoot” said Kōichi.

“Who knows what Asumi is going make her Comet Shot?” asked Kōichi.

“Going on to my last shot and I hope this will work” said Asumi as she will do the Comet Shot. She jumps high and she would do the three-point shot with a quick swift and the shot was good as the game is over with the score of 14-13. Team Angels wins the game against Team Redheads.

“The game is over! Team Angels are the winners of the game!” said Kurumi as Tomoka, Jun, Michiko, Kōme and Akiko smile to each other with the victory.

“That was a great match for the two teams! You two are great, Tomoka and Jun!” said Kyō.

“Thanks, Kyō!” said Tomoka and Jun.

“I couldn’t have done this before when we play together since you teach me how to play basketball. It was fun, you know” said Jun.

“Yeah. I think that we finally realize about our friendship grows more than it is expected. Well, Jun. You’re doing great with all of your skills you made for us” said Tomoka.

“Well, it was not bad at all. But the big thing is that I finally made a shot like you teach me before” said Jun.

“Oh, the layup that you did. It was magnificent!” said Tomoka.

“Yeah!” said Jun.

“You two are real heroes for this game! I couldn’t say that for the least and I might be ready for the cup next week” said Michiko.

“Oh, yeah. We will be ready to win the tournament this time!” said the members of Team Takeda and Team Miyazaki.

“You guys are excited to play in the Hasegawa Cup. I believe that we should finalize our papers to fill up the roster and the lineup for Family of Angels” said Tomoka.

“And also, I believe that when the tournament starts, we’ll make sure that we will be ready to win games and also, to beat Team Balguerie” said Jun.

“Well, I don’t expect to see it happen, but we’ll find out when the draw comes” said Tomoka.

“Yeah” said Jun.

“Oh, Jun, I think Asumi is about to say something” said Kurumi.

“Jun, I wonder when we’re going to use the same lineup we did earlier” said Asumi.

“You mean the Team Redheads lineup? Okay. I’ll add Miki to the roster, in case Natsuki and Nami were tired from the game” said Jun.

“Sure! I hope that when the tournament begins, our strategy will work in no time!” said Asumi.

“Great!” said Jun and Tomoka.

On the other hand, Asami, Miki, Kōichi and Mito went to the drinks corner as they get the cold drinks.

“Kōichi, since I’m joining the basketball team, I think the Redheads strategy will work on the opponents we will face in the Hasegawa Cup” said Miki.

“Yeah! That’s great news! I probably want to be part of the coaching staff of the Family of Angels, but I think Kurumi will pick some of her friends of mine while Akiko will call her friends from section 6-B to come tomorrow” said Kōichi.

“Well, we’ll decide when they’ll come tomorrow” said Miki.

“I heard that Ginga will come tomorrow and I think there will be some changes for Team Balguerie” said Mito.

“Uh, if Ginga will be here tomorrow, I’ll expect to see what’s going to be planning for the cup” said Asami.

“Then, I will think of some of the friends will visit to the mansion tomorrow and I believe that one of the members of Team Balguerie plans this” said Mito.

“Well, we’ll going to tell Tomoka about this” said Asami.

“I guess we can’t do that for a while. At least we still train here” said Kōichi.

“Oh, you’re right” said Asami.

“I think Tomoka said that we should go back to the court for a minute and then, we should talk about differences between our team and the others” said Miki.

“Okay!” said Asami, Kōichi and Mito.

As Miki, Mito, Asami and Kōichi return to the court, Tomoka and Jun’s Angels announced to the group. “We’ll continue this training tomorrow. Everybody is exhausted like me. So, everyone, to the mansion!” said Tomoka.

“Yeah!” said the members of Family of Angels as Tomoka, Jun’s Angels and Family of Angels were leaving the court to go to the mansion.

Later in the evening, after dinner, Family of Angels went to the room of Team Takeda as they will sleep there along with Michiko and her friends.

Kyō, Kurumi, Sakura, Kōme and Yuzuha went to the room of Team Bravehearts where they are talking with Hinata, Kagetsu, Mimi, Aya and Airi.

“I can’t believe that you’re all here, Kurumi and the team. My name is Aya Miyakoōji and I’m the ace of the Suzuridani Girls’ Academy. Nice to meet you!” said Aya.

“Nice to meet you, Aya!” said Kyō, Kurumi, Sakura, Kōme and Yuzuha.

“You should be to stay with us, Aya. I will be glad that you can ask questions about us” said Sakura.

“Okay!” said Aya.

“Hinata, I wonder when Innocent will come to the mansion tomorrow for the deadline, they will fill up the roster for their team” said Kurumi.

“Oh, yes, they will come tomorrow. By the way, they will fill up the rest of the members for the Innocent Charm. Since I’m the member of Team Balguerie as a member of the coaching staff, I’ll be assisting my sister and her teammates” said Hinata.

“Yep, that’s what my sister said. I believe that you’re the student council president, Kurumi” said Kagetsu.

“Oh, yes, I am. I’m the current President of the Shiromidai Elementary School Student Council and a friend of Yumi Kaneda, who is a former President of the Council” said Kurumi.

“Wow, you’re amazing to be a student leader! I know what about you will meet with Erika Satō” said Airi.

“Erika Satō? Who is she?” asked Kurumi.

“Erika is my classmate and also, the President of the Keishin Academy Elementary School Student Council” said Kagetsu.

“She’ll be here tomorrow along with the Innocent Charm. I believe that we settle this idea on teaming with Team Balguerie for the Hasegawa Cup” said Hinata.

“That’s awesome! Maybe that experiment is also my sister’s idea” said Kyō.

“That’s right, Kyō! I talk to Yumi and she said that I’ll be forming the basketball team for the Shiromidai Elementary School Student Council. It’s a society that we’ll going to create” said Kurumi.

“Since she’s the president of the council, she ’ll allow her friends to become members of her team. We should call her team as the Orange and Fuschia” said Kōme.

“Ah, that’s a great name you got, Kōme!” said Airi.

“Oh, thank you, Airi” said Kōme.

“Our team will add some new members of our team and we’ll name it once they’ll here tomorrow” said Airi.

“That’s great! I will root for your team, Airi. Maybe they will add some young student out there” said Kōme.

“Of course, Kōme” said Airi.

“Sakura, is Kyō finally go back to school in Niida Nishi High School?” asked Aya.

“Yes, it is, Aya. After he helped Jun, Sora and Nozomi, he finally given the reward that they will help his assignments. After that, I talked to him and he said that he will finally return to Niida Nishi” said Sakura.

“And that’s why I’m currently ready to enroll for second year high school” said Kyō.

“That’s great, Kyō!” said Aya.

“See, Aya, he’s already writing about anything even though he never flunks out of school” said Sakura.

“Oh, I’m sure he will fine if he will be helping you” said Aya.

“Of course, Aya. He will probably help me, then I’ll give him in return” said Sakura.

“I believe that aside from Innocent Charm, there will be a sixth group to join the Bravehearts” said Hinata.

“You really think so?” asked Yuzuha.

“Of course, Yuzuha. That group is composed of students who were closed to the student council” said Kagetsu.

“Maybe they will be coming from sections 5-D & 5-E. I believe that they are associates to us and Rei Kanazawa, the former student council President” said Hinata.

“I also found out that one of the members in that group is also a pupil of Ginga Hasegawa during the training” said Mimi.

“I see. I don’t know who that girl is” said Sakura.

“Well, we should find out tomorrow” said Kagetsu.

“But right now, it’s a secret. Nobody know about this” said Hinata.

“Okay” said Airi, Mimi, Kyō, Kurumi, Sakura, Kōme, Yuzuha and Aya.

Tomoka, Jun, Sora, Nozomi and the members of Family of Angels are on the second room where they are staying here.

“Until the adjustments will be made next year as we’re planning to create a new hostel, you can now sleep there on your own” said Tomoka.

“Wow! I can’t wait to see that building that they’re planning” said Asami.

“Well, at least that we’re going to prepare for the future since we have many members of the Bravehearts” said Michiko.

“As soon as the management of the Misawa Resort Hotel agrees to build this, we’ll going to plan the arrangements for us to sleep there for sure” said Akiko.

“That’s right! Everyone will be sleeping at the new building with a new basketball court to be served for residents of the new building. Some of our members will sleep in another place rather than to live there” said Tomoka.

“I will definitely ready to live there once it is done by next year” said Anzu.

“Whoa! You’re all excited about this announcement and this is the plan for the Bravehearts to live there, so don’t spoil anything to loud about this” said Jun.

“Okay!” said the members of Team Gotō.

“So, now we’re going to have our next plans to make” said Jun.

“We need some members of the coaching staff for the Family of Angels” said Michiko.

“For the boys’ team, it appears that we don’t have any other members who are willing to join the group” said Sora.

“Maybe we should recruit some more members to come for tomorrow” said Nozomi.

“Yeah, that’s going to make this team have many supporters” said Masami.

“Of course! We need some supporters in order to have the coaching staff to be added” said Nozomi.

“I believe that we need the girls’ team to do that first. Nozomi and I will be part of the coaching staff while Jun will be the manager of the team. Then, Dairoku and Kyōji will take part of the staff as we need boys in the coaching staff” said Sora.

“So, if I’m going to become the manager of this team, I will adjust everything, and the orders of Kurumi will be decided through everyone in the team” said Jun.

“That’s nice, Jun! Let’s recruit at least two girls for the boys’ team coaching staff” said Tomoka.

“Okay. We’ll add Sakura Toriumi and Hitomi Takao would be part of the coaching staff for the boys’ team. Then, I need somebody to call my classmates to take part of the staff” said Jun.

“Jun, I think you, Nozomi and Sora will call your classmates because your classmates may like their invitations to join our team” said Masanobu.

“Ah, okay” said Jun, Nozomi and Sora.

“On the other hand, Kyō will be the manager of the boys’ team since he will play and manage for us and should cooperate with the head coach” said Jun.

“But who will be coaching the team?” asked Sora.

“Maybe I have to check first” said Nozomi.

“Okay, in the meantime, the boys’ team need at least three members, so that it will become ten members. I hope that will work out” said Tomoka.

“Asumi, have you call your friends yet?” asked Asami.

“Oh, I found one. It says that Shigeru Hirashita will be joining Team Gotō tomorrow as a member of the basketball team. He’s my classmate, but not a varsity player” said Asumi.

“Okay! We have eight out of ten members in the boys’ team” said Michiko.

“That’s great! We should update this as I’m going to talk with Akiko and her groupmates” said Tomoka as she went to Team Miyazaki.

“So, Tomoka, what’s all about?” asked Akiko.

“Well, I wonder do you have some members from section 6-B to join your team” said Tomoka.

“Maybe, Ryōta Mikawa and Shōzō Takamatsu are planning to join the team to make the boys’ team. They are members of the 6-B intramurals team” said Akiko.

“Did you call them?” asked Tomoka.

“Yeah. They are awaiting their invitation to join us” said Akiko.

“That’s great!” said Tomoka.

“Akiko, it appears that class president Kiyoto Miyaji has confirmed his invitation to join our team. I texted him if he can join our team and then, he said yes” said Satsuki.

“Wow! He’s going to be with us tomorrow, everyone” said Akiko.

“Great find, Satsuki!” said Natsuki.

“Now, we need to fill up this roster before the deadline, Tomoka. That way, we’ll compete for the qualifiers for sure” said Satsuki.

“Okay! Akiko, do you have other plans to do?” asked Natsuki.

“Well, Tomoka and I are planning to have our classmates to join in different groups, but aside from that, Megumi’s friend Fujiko Sasaki is going to join the team tomorrow” said Akiko.

“Wow! Is that true, Megumi?” asked Natsuki.

“Yes, Natsuki. She will be staying in Keishin for middle school and hopefully going to filling the spots for the section 6-C in the future” said Megumi.

“That’s great!” said Natuski.

Jun would look at the time on her watch. “Tomoka, it’s 8:51 in the evening” said Jun.

“Okay. Everyone! It’s almost nine in the evening and we should keep searching for some members until we found new members on our team. So, let’s keep looking!” said Tomoka.

“Okay!” said the members of Family of Angels. In the end, the Family of Angels has found new opportunities with the members they have. With the Redheads strategy to be added for Kurumi’s playbook, they hopefully going to win if the plan works. Tomoka, Michiko, Asumi and Jun are hopefully going to finish the rosters they worked on before the deadline tomorrow. They wanted to make sure that the fun of basketball and music would be combined as soon as they’re always ready.

UP NEXT: Special Chapter 2: "Asumi Hiramatsu: The Redhead Comet"

That officially ends Volume 2 of the Rooks, Knights and Bravehearts. Volume 3 will start on December 8 with the first appearance of Miyu Aida and Rena Ashihara. See you on Friday for the Special Chapter 2 featuring Asumi Hiramatsu!

 

[Sherwin Riga]

It's the month of December, a month of Christmastide and New Year, and I'm finally going to be excited to spend a happy December as I will be posting new chapters of Rooks, Knights and Bravehearts series. It's 24 days before Christmas and I hope that Volume 2 will be closed with this chapter.:) When 2018 is here, I will be planning to draft some ideas where the series will be expanded to a vast group of characters based on the ideas I will be adding some new groups to form. By the way, it'll be a harem and basketball-sided story when the Volume 4 starts. The Special Chapter 2 will be featuring Asumi Hiramatsu, one of Ginga's Pupils and Mimi Balguerie's friend. It seems that Asumi was the ace of Shiromidai Elementary School after Michiko Takeda left the team due to graduation. With that, enjoy reading this new chapter, Special Chapter 2: "Asumi Hiramatsu: The Redhead Comet"!:)

Ginga's Pupils is one of the groups that were created by none other than coach and archeologist Ginga Hasegawa when he created his own summer training camp. While the summer begins, he recruited young female basketball players who wanted to become stronger with their own potential. Aside from Mimi Balguerie, Asumi Hiramatsu is one of the girls who trusted Ginga as her coach. Born in Tokyo, Asumi came from Shiromidai Elementary School and she is an incoming sixth grader starting April 1. The nickname of her was the Redhead Comet because of her great shooting skills that is her strength in basketball. Trying to become stronger this year, she hopes that she will be defeating her friends who were also Ginga's Pupils in the district tournament in winter. In this special chapter, Asumi and Mimi would meet each other for the first time since their last encounter at the Suzuran Shopping Street. Also, Mimi and Asumi will show their true form of their signature moves. Mimi hopes that Asumi will see her again at the district tournament soon and Asumi is now helping Family of Angels and Team Aurora.

VOLUME 2: “FRIENDS AND RELATIONS”
SPECIAL CHAPTER 2: “ASUMI HIRAMATSU: THE REDHEAD COMET”​

While the other groups have their own conversations, Tomoka, Maho, Saki, Airi, Hinata, Mimi, Tsubaki, Hiiragi, Masami, Kagetsu and Natushi are in the first room where Mimi tells a story about her reunion with one of Ginga’s Pupils named Asumi Hiramatsu of Shiromidai Elementary School. Hiramatsu is also Jun Gotō’s classmate in section 5-2.

“Everyone! I have a story that I will tell you about” said Mimi.

“About what story, Mimi?” asked Tsubaki.

“About one of my friends from Ginga’s training sessions” said Mimi.

“That’s an interesting story what we want tell us about” said Hiiragi.

“Oh, I think that story would be about meeting her after our last match against Suzuridani” said Hinata.

“Well, okay, Hinata, I like that idea!” said Mimi.

“Great idea, Mimi! That encounter was one of our activities to do after we battle against Suzuridani in the district tournament” said Kagetsu.

“Well, I’m sure you’re gonna love it” said Mimi.

“Yeah!” said Tsubaki, Hiiragi, Hinata and Kagetsu.

“Asumi Hiramatsu is one of Ginga’s Pupils born in Tokyo, Japan and she is known as the “Redhead Comet”. On the other hand, my nickname is “The French Aurora” because of my expressionless personality and I’m taking that role as a playmaker shooter” said Mimi.

“Who do you call you “The French Aurora”?” asked Kagetsu.

“It’s my mentor, Ginga” said Mimi.

“So, did you meet Subaru when you’re in training?” asked Tomoka.

“Uh, once when Ginga brought him to help my friends” said Mimi.

“So, you finally meet me when you expressed about my shots” said Tomoka.

“Oh, yeah, Tomoka. I believe that you’re doing great in shooting, but I believe that we were equals based on our characteristics and personalities” said Mimi.

“Well, I guess that you’re always been cautious to us when you heard trouble in our team” said Tomoka.

“Ah, yeah. I think you’re right, Tomoka. I became more focused on basketball activities when it comes to calling the shots for the team and to be cautious, you need to warn your teammates about big opponents” said Mimi.

“It seems that you have strategized the game when you’re leading the game” said Saki.

“Of course, Saki” said Mimi.

“Then, continue the story, Mimi” said Hinata.

“Tell us about her” said Airi.

“Okay, everyone! I hope this story will last long” said Mimi.

“Don’t worry, Mimi. I want to see the signature move of Asumi. That move was crazy out there” said Masami.

“Also, when did you face her one-on-one, your signature move is awesome!” said Maho.

“Okay, I’ll include that, Masami and Maho. Now, onto the story!” said Mimi.

The flashback starts when the members of the Keishin Academy girls’ basketball club were walking to visit Jun and the Angels at the Little Wing Orphanage in Tamagawa. While walking, Mimi saw a red-haired girl on the basketball who practice playing basketball alone.

“Is that my friend, Asumi?” asked Mimi, pointing to her.

“Well, I think you’re right, Mimi. We should see her” said Tomoka.

“Okay!” said Mimi as they went to the basketball court to see Asumi.

Asumi stops shooting the ball as the ball drives in to the basket. She turned to see Mimi, who was joined by her teammates.

“Mimi!” said Asumi as she runs to her to greet her. “Nice to see you back since our last encounter, remember?”

“Oh, yeah. At the Suzuran Shopping District” said Mimi.

“I believe that it’s Chiyo’s birthday on that day” said Asumi.

“Of course!” said Mimi as she remembers Asumi last time at the Suzuran Shopping District while eating ramen noodles. The flashback starts.

“When we meet each again, Asumi?” asked Mimi as Ginga’s Pupils have finished eating their ramen noodles.

“I believe soon because Ginga appears to be very busy for the moment. I hope we’ll meet him again eventually” said Asumi.

“Well, I hope we can chat when he’ll be back” said Mimi.

“Okay!” said the members of Ginga’s Pupils. The flashback ends.

“Now, you know about when we’ll see Ginga again, but he’s very busy at time he travels here” said Mimi.

“Oh, yeah, I see. I think we’re meeting again since we show our basketball skills last time” said Asumi.

“Yeah, Asumi. Maybe I can show you what I did” said Mimi.

“Sure, Mimi” said Asumi. Mimi dribbles the ball, then she runs to the key and shoot the ball with the shooter. The ball would drive in to the basket.

“Wow! You’re amazing, Mimi! I believe that your Aurora Age was outstanding. When did you improve that?” said Asumi.

“During our game against Suzuridani Academy” said Mimi.

“Oh, Suzuridani Academy is one of the strong teams in the district. I believe that they’re heading to the fourth round and we’ll face them tomorrow” said Asumi.

“You mean that you’re going to face Suzuridani tomorrow? Well, that’s great. I believe that you have to watch for Miyu and her teammates. Their weights are way up high than their opponents like us” said Mimi.

“Well, I have to tell my teammates about that school. Our coach says that we have to defend the court by combatting the weights of the Suzuridani players with our weights. If one of us is good against another player from Suzuridani, we’ll have our advantage” said Asumi.

“Yeah. I committed to Keishin to play with Tomoka and my teammates. What about you, Asumi? Where is your current school?” said Mimi.

“I’m from Shiromidai Elementary School and also the ace of our class” said Asumi.

“Shiromidai? That’s Jun’s school. Did you meet her?” said Tomoka.

“Yep. I’m her classmate, of course” said Asumi.

“Whoa! I think you are friendly to her and I was shocked that you’re another ace like my friend Michiko. Eventually, your team will try to find strategies to beat the players from Suzuridani” said Tomoka.

“I hope so. We’ll definitely make history to make sure that they won’t advance to the quarterfinals” said Asumi.

“Well, Asumi, since you’re here, I want you to meet my teammates. This is Tsubaki and Hiiragi Takenaka, the twins. Then, my close friend Kagetsu Hakamada and Masami Fujii. Also, this is Tomoka Minato, then the rest of my teammates: Saki Nagatsuka, Airi Kashii, Hinata Hakamada and Maho Misawa” said Mimi.

“Nice to meet you, Asumi!” said the members of the Keishin Academy girls’ basketball club.

“Nice to meet you, too!” said Asumi.

“So, why are you here today?” asked Mimi.

“I’m waiting for my teammates to train for our game against Suzuridani tomorrow” said Asumi.

“Then, when they will come out?” asked Mimi.

“They’re on their way. I think they have their classes dismissed and look forward to see me” said Asumi.

“Great! So, what do you do in class?” asked Mimi.

“I spend time playing basketball and also, doing stories” said Asumi.

“Hey, I like stories! Maybe if we can work together to create a fantasy world, we should do that very soon” said Mimi.

“Oh, yeah. Now, will you call your teammates on the same level to come here?” said Asumi.

“Okay! Tsubaki, Hiiragi, Kagetsu and Masami, come right here!” said Mimi.

“Okay!” said Tsubaki, Hiiragi, Kagetsu and Masami as they walk to Asumi and Mimi.

“You four will be trained by the two of us” said Asumi.

“So, you have to show your talents to allow Asumi to see what they’re doing” said Mimi.

“Okay!” said Tsubaki, Hiiragi, Kagetsu and Masami.

“Now, let’s start the training!” said Mimi.

The training begins with the four (Tsubaki, Hiiragi, Kagetsu and Masami) were dribbling the ball, trying to master their skills.

“Do you think these four will be okay to be trained by one of Ginga’s Pupils?” asked Hinata.

“They’ll show their skills to see if Asumi is impressed with those moves. I think it’s up to Asumi to decide” said Tomoka.

“Oh, I think any of Mimi’s teammates can have their skills and moves by doing on their own” said Hinata.

“That’s exactly true, Hinata” said Tomoka.

Then, Asumi and Mimi let the four (Tsubaki, Hiiragi, Kagetsu and Masami) to use their hands to guard their opponents. In one occasion, Tsubaki guarded Mimi, who dribbles the ball. Kagetsu, meanwhile, had mastered her guarding when she guarded Asumi with her own movements.

“Nice job, Kagetsu!” said Mimi as she smiled on what her friend did to Asumi.

“Thanks, Mimi! I think my guarding was working out all along!” said Kagetsu.

“Yep” said Mimi.

Later, the four (Tsubaki, Hiiragi, Kagetsu and Masami) would shoot the ball from any range as the they take turns, so that they will shoot at the other side beside to each other.

“Oh, I will be great if I will become a good shooter” said Tsubaki.

‘Me too! I wanna try to make shots consecutively at any range” said Hiiragi.

“Well, try not to miss the shots consecutively” said Maho.

“Okay!” said Tsubaki and Hiiragi.

“Take your time, Tsubaki and Hiiragi! You need to aim at the right target” said Mimi.

“Make sure that you don’t make the ball bounces off from the rim” said Asumi.

“Okay!” said Tsubaki and Hiiragi.

Tsubaki and Hiiragi would continue shooting the ball and the shots were good.

“No one knows when these twin sisters will play when it comes to versatile offense and defensive plays. They love tricky moves to immobilize their opponents” said Maho.

“Yep. I believe that they will make sure that when they’re in the game, the opponents will be confused with the Double Mean Play” said Saki.

Mimi and Asumi would instruct the four (Tsubaki, Hiiragi, Kagetsu and Masami) to do fast break drill where Tsubaki and Hiiragi will play against Masami and Kagetsu.

“Could these two co-exist to each other?” asked Airi.

“Definitely. I think the sisters are always ready to play while Masami and Kagetsu need to work out to make sure that they cooperate to each other” said Saki.

Hiiragi misses the shot after she got the ball from Tsubaki and Masami gets the ball for the rebound. Masami and Kagetsu would cooperate to each other with the former throws the ball to Kagetsu at the right spot, then Kagetsu would shoot the ball with the jumper. The ball drives in to the basket.

“Masami and Kagetsu are very in doing fast break skills like Tsubaki and Hiiragi” said Airi.

“Yep. I’m sure that the fifth graders will work together without us next year” said Saki.

“Yeah, I believe so, Saki” said Airi.

Tsubaki, Hiiragi, Masami and Kagetsu grin to each other as they were exhausted from the training.

“I believe they are ready to play against the two in the practice match” said Tomoka.

“Yeah” said Maho.

“We’ll see if the four would able to beat Mimi and Asumi when they’ll face off in a practice match” said Saki.

“Go, Kagetsu! You can do it!” said Hinata.

“Good luck to all of you!” said Airi. Tsubaki, Hiiragi, Kagetsu and Masami are smiled to the sixth graders as they’re ready to battle against Asumi and Mimi in the warm-up match.

Part 2 will be on the next post.

 

[Sherwin Riga]

"Asumi Hiramatsu: The Redhead Comet" Part 2

Finally, a 2-on-4 match-up between Asumi and Mimi against Tsubaki, Hiiragi, Masami and Kagetsu begins with Asumi passes the ball to Mimi, who runs to the key to shoot the ball with the jumper. The ball drives in to the basket.

“That was a great start, Mimi!” said Tomoka.

“Yeah. This is my first time that we’re together in a practice game” said Mimi.

“Surely, we’ll going to win, but I’m feared that the four are going to work hard with the skills they use earlier” said Asumi.

“Oh, I get it. Maybe they’re trying to challenge us for sure” said Mimi.

“Yeah. We’ll hopefully going to see how these four are doing” said Asumi.

“Okay, good luck!” said Tomoka.

The next possession comes to Kagetsu’s team as Masami passes the ball to Tsubaki and the latter would do the quick pass to her twin sister. Hiiragi seems to be happy to face off against Asumi.

“Since we’re facing each other, I think we should see who the fastest player is” said Asumi.

“Well, if that’s the case you want it, then we’ll show you something trickier. Tsubaki!” said Hiiragi as she throws the ball and Tsubaki catches it to dunk the ball which the ball is now driving in to the basket.

“Wow! What an alley-oop they made!” said Maho.

“I really think they try to imitate our move” said Saki.

“I’m sure that the twins will never lose faith on their opponents” said Tomoka.

“Yep!” said Maho.

Asumi passes the ball to Mimi, then the latter would dribble the ball and exchange her hand with the other hand. She would pass the ball to Asumi with Masami and Tsubaki try to stop her. Asumi steps back to perform the Comet Shot as the ball was driving in to the basket like a comet.

“Oh! That’s beautiful!” said Hinata.

“I think that shot was her signature move” said Airi.

“Of course, Airi. That shot was taught by Ginga and she decided to perform three-point shots with her own speed” said Hinata.

“Well, I believe that Mimi and Asumi are great players, but we’re luckily fine to see Mimi and Asumi cooperate” said Airi.

“Yeah, Airi. They will work out with their senses and mismatches” said Hinata.

“Yeah, Hinata” said Airi.

The game continues with Kagetsu being guarded by Mimi. Mimi was glad to see Kagetsu doing fine with their staminas are strong. Kagetsu would pass the ball to Hiiragi and Mimi catches Hiiragi to guard her.

“Do you think I’m better than you, Mimi?” asked Hiiragi.

“I don’t know, but with my senses, I can sure you can’t make it” said Mimi.

“Fine! Then, let’s find out if I can prove this to you” said Hiiragi.

“Okay!” said Mimi as she and Hiiragi would move and Hiiragi’s weight was less lucky than Mimi’s weight. Hiiragi would do the crossover move to get past Mimi, but Mimi’s still strong. Then, she shoots the ball with the uncontested shot, but the shot was missed.

“I’ll get it!” said Tsubaki as she gets the rebound. Then, she moves back to move in to the right to prevent either Mimi or Asumi to guard her. Tsubaki would shoot the ball with the jumper and the shot was good.

“Alright! I did it, Hii!” said Tsubaki.

“Yeah, Tsuba! I think our plan worked! We didn’t use our Double Mean Play, but we’re able to beat them by our own offensive switchback” said Hiiragi.

“Oh, yeah” said Tsubaki.

“What are we gonna do?” asked Asumi.

“Don’t worry, Asumi. I’ll take over this” said Mimi.

On the next possession, Asumi passes the ball to Mimi as the latter and Masami would face each other. Then, she changes the ball from one hand to the other. After looking at the court to see what’s going on, she moves past Masami and shoot the ball with the floater. The ball would drive in to the basket.

“It seems that Mimi is hopefully going to use her Aurora Age once she did it well” said Hinata.

“Mimi sees the field to look on the opponents and then, she had to move out of the opponent with the ankle break and would shoot the ball. That’s much easier than the other moves” said Tomoka.

“I believe that some aces have their own signature moves to make the shot well” said Airi.

“Well, you’re correct, Airi” said Tomoka.

“I expect to see both playing with their own skills that Ginga teaches them” said Maho.

“This is what the aces do when there is a mismatch and the aces should know the techniques to use the signature moves at the same time” said Saki.

“I really like the shot of Mimi than the shot of Asumi because the former was way better than the latter” said Hinata.

“That’s true, Hinata. Mimi will never lose her stamina with that shot” said Tomoka.

Later, Hiiragi dribbles the ball and was confronted by Asumi. Asumi would steal the ball from Hiiragi and then, she runs to the low post area and prepares to shoot the ball with the jumper. She shoots the ball and the ball drives in to the basket perfectly.

“Wow! That shot was amazing!” said Saki.

“She can’t stop losing this feat until someone can overcome this” said Hinata.

Masami passes the ball to Kagetsu as Kagetsu went to the low post area without Mimi or Asumi guarding her. Then, she was confronted by Mimi, but would do the crossover move and then, she’s faster than the others as she shoots the ball with the layup.

“Wow! My sister can’t deny any opponent’s predictions and she likes to swift in with her Prestigious Charm signature move” said Hinata.

“I think you and your sister are having the same level when it comes to using the signature moves” said Airi.

“I really like to play with my sister and I’ll make sure that we cooperate to each other” said Hinata.

“Will you work out your Innocent Charm move when you’re playing in middle school?” asked Airi.

“Of course, Airi!” said Hinata.

The next scene is where Asumi and Masami would sink three-point shots separately while Asumi did the ankle breaker move on Tsubaki and Masami would move past Mimi with the use of behind the back dribble and switchback move.

“I’m glad that Masami had improved her skills, but also, she use her Dazzled Copy move, in order to copy the opponents’ moves. Thank goodness, Masami can’t miss three-point shots” said Saki.

“I’m sure that Masami improves anything, but let me explain about this” said Maho. “When Masami is shooting the ball by using the three-point shot, her rate will depend on what the results will come out. Also, when she puts up a three-point shot, she has to make sure that her opponents won’t block her shot. It will be risky to happen if a player’s three-point shot got rejected by a player with strong stamina and flexibility.”

“Yeah, I can say that when shooting a three-point shot and I have to make sure that the shot is faster than slower” said Saki.

“Yeah. Anything can happen when the shot sinks to the net with a three-pointer” said Maho.

After different plays made by the two teams, at the end of the game, Kagetsu would sink a three-point shot and the ball was driving in to the basket. The game ends with the score of 15-13 and it was won by Team Hakamada.

“Wow! You’re very strong with your strategies you got, Kagetsu! I like your style of play!” said Asumi.

“Actually, Mimi is the one who teaches me to shoot three-point shots or jumpers. I recall this when my teammates were trained by Subaru, Aoi, Natsuhi and the sixth graders. If it’s easy to ask, Mimi was a playmaker like you. Hey, you know what, I think you must face Mimi one-on-one. That way, you will recall everything from Ginga’s training and the winner will be declared if anyone gets 21 points” said Kagetsu.

“Well, Asumi, I think we must recall this challenge when we’re at the training. Let’s see who will win this game. Is it me or you, Asumi?” said Mimi.

“Okay, Mimi, bring it on!” said Asumi.

The one-on-one match begin with Asumi now holds the ball to dribble it. Then, she moves in to the paint as she is about to shoot the ball. The ball bounces off from the rim and Mimi gets the rebound.

“Well, Asumi, I can’t say this, but what a challenge that we will about to see who gets the most” said Mimi as she dribbles the ball and went to the perimeter.

“About that, anything can be made until the one makes 21 points” said Asumi.

“Of course, Asumi” said Mimi as she shoots the ball with the jumper and the ball drives in to the basket. “I can shoot at any range with the areas I go there.”

“I think the challenge is not easy as the other goals have. So, let’s battle!” said Asumi.

“Okay, Asumi!” said Mimi.

“Do you think Asumi will try to beat her friend without using the signature moves?” asked Maho.

“I don’t know, Maho, but we can’t determine who will be winning without the signature moves” said Tomoka.

“Well, if the signature moves are used by these two, then, it’s a real challenge” said Maho.

“Of course, Maho! They’ll prepare their signature moves to be used” said Saki.

“Yeah, Mimi will not let her friend win this game when she’s on fire” said Tomoka.

“Exactly! Mimi will have to unleash her signature move once she’s ready to be on fire” said Saki.

“Yeah!” said Maho and Tomoka.

Asumi now holds the ball and dribbles it. Then, she and Mimi move to the low post area where the mismatch is in. At the end, Asumi step back and shoot the ball with the jumper and the shot was good.

“It’s a tie game, Mimi” said Asumi.

“Well, this is what it started when two of us made first shots” said Mimi.

“Alright, Mimi. Your turn!” said Asumi as she passes the ball to Mimi.

“Okay!” said Mimi.

Mimi dribbles the ball and the aura is glowing on Mimi as she is prepared to use the Aurora Age. Then, she does the pump fake, then, she goes on to shoot the three-point shot and the ball drives in to the basket.

“Wow! The Aurora Age is growing. She can’t miss the shots when she shoots perfectly” said Airi.

“That’s why Mimi had many senses on her own field and when the Aurora Age is on, the shots will be easy to look in true colors” said Hinata.

“Yeah. It depends on what Mimi do and I hope Mimi will unleash her true form like Tomoka did in the ForM Mini Basketball Cup” said Airi.

“Yeah, Airi. I hope Mimi is ready to push through the new level soon” said Hinata.

Asumi dribbles the ball as she moves to the right low post area and then, going to the key.

“If I’m not using the Comet Shot, I might shoot in another way” said Asumi. “But I’ll try to shoot this on the low post.”

Asumi would shoot the ball with the Comet Shot and the ball would drive in to the basket. The score is now tied at 4.

Mimi would later shoot the ball with the fadeaway jumper and the shot was good. The score is now 6-4 for Mimi.

“Well, I’m not bad as you are, Asumi. Doing my fadeaway jumper will make sure that you can’t block my shots with my other skill. That’s also part of trying to generate the Aurora Age” said Mimi.

“So, I think you’re going to see who proves the signature move the most: The Comet Shot–” said Asumi.

“–or the Aurora Age? I hope this competition will be try to determine which is move is stronger of the two” said Mimi.

“Okay, Mimi. You’re not going to disappoint this one” said Asumi.

“Sure, but I won’t get easy on you, Asumi” said Mimi.

“Uh oh. This is going to be bad, Hii” said Tsubaki.

“I think Mimi is unleashing Aurora Age” said Hiiragi.

“Maybe Mimi will have to hand this all by herself” said Masami.

“I think Mimi and Asumi will challenge themselves to determine who had the shooting skill proves better” said Kagetsu.

“Well, Kagetsu, things are going to be brighter as expected” said Tsubaki.

“I hope so, Tsubaki” said Kagetsu.

Asumi would do the crossover move on Mimi and would do the fadeaway jumper just like Mimi did earlier. The shot was good as the ball was driving in to the basket.

Later, Mimi now finally prepares to use the Aurora Age as she had to use run faster than earlier and also, allowing the shots to be easier than before. She did a crossover move on Asumi, which made Asumi immobilize, and would do the turnaround jumper. The ball would enter to the hoop and Mimi’s shot was good. The score is now 8-6 for Mimi.

“So, you’re finally stepping up, Mimi” said Asumi.

“Yes, I am! I’ll win this match with this move” said Mimi.

“Mimi is unleashing her Aurora Age!” said Kagetsu.

“I can’t believe it!” said Masami.

“Whoa! Aurora Age!” said Tsubaki and Hiiragi.

“You’re getting stronger, Mimi!” said Hinata.

“With your signature move is here…” said Airi.

“…you can now able to drive faster with agile direction” said Saki.

“You’re on fire, Mimi!” said Maho.

“I will be glad that you’re ready to reach the high level just like me!” said Tomoka.

“Of course, everyone! It looks like I finally master my signature move with swiping to the breeze” said Mimi.

“You can do it, Mimi!” said the members of Keishin Academy girls’ basketball club.

“Okay!” said Mimi as she grinned to her teammates and then turned to Asumi. “So, Asumi, are you ready for this real challenge?”

“Okay, Mimi, I think you’re on!” said Asumi.

“Sure!” said Mimi.

The next possession is when Asumi tries to do the same movement as Mimi and then, she is determined to shoot the ball. She would use the Comet Shot to make the ball entering in to the basket, but it was missed when the ball bounces off from the rim. Mimi would get the rebound and she manage to get past Asumi to shoot the ball with another jumper. The score is now 10-6.

“Wow!” said the members of Keishin Academy girls’ basketball club.

“Whew! That was a big shot I made, but like I said, I won’t get easy on you when I’m using the Aurora Age” said Mimi.

“You’re determined, Mimi. I believe that your aura is reaching on you like your teammate Tomoka” said Asumi.

“Why, yes, I am, Asumi” said Mimi.

“So, do you think that the signature moves are useful when the level goes high?” asked Asumi.

“Yeah, Asumi. Well, then, shall we continue to game?” said Mimi.

“Oh, sure, Mimi!” said Asumi as the one-on-one match continues with Mimi and Asumi continue taking their shots. When, Asumi misses the shot, Mimi takes the rebound and she goes to the perimeter to shoot the game-winning shot. Asumi comes back, trying to block Mimi’s shot, but Mimi made a perfect turnaround jumper, which make the ball drives in to the basket. The game ends with the win by Mimi with the score of 22-18.

“That’s it, Asumi. I think we play hard and at least I miss three shots in that match” said Mimi, huffed and exhausted.

“Yeah, I figure it out on what you made and my Comet Shot almost lose my stamina in shooting. You are braver than I am, Mimi” said Asumi.

“Thanks, Asumi” said Mimi as she and Asumi went on to take a break before the Keishin Academy girls’ basketball club is about to leave the basketball court to go to Jun’s home.

“Well, Asumi. I hope we can meet each other again soon after the tournament” said Mimi.

“Yeah, Mimi. I wonder when this training works on our game, I hope I can unleash fury in order to beat Suzuridani in the game” said Asumi.

“Yeah, good luck with the game, Asumi!” said Mimi.

“Thanks, Mimi. And good luck on your next season!” said Asumi.

“Okay! Bye!” said Mimi as Mimi and her teammates wave their hands goodbye to Asumi as they will be going to Jun’s home at the Little Wing Orphanage.

“That game was awesome, Mimi! You’re a real hero!” said Kagetsu.

“Thanks, Kagetsu! I can’t believe that I finally want to use my signature move in the future, but of course, I have to improve my shooting skills until I made it again” said Mimi.

“Mimi, I hope you’re happy when you are pleased by your friend. I believe that the next time you and Asumi meet again, this will be a real competition for us next year” said Masami.

“Oh, yeah. Masami, I know you can count on me when we’re about to face Shiromidai next year” said Mimi.

“I’m sure you’ll make us happy when you dominate the game again” said Tsubaki.

“I hope our signature moves will be improved more than ever” said Hiiragi.

“Yeah! Then, we shall look forward to the future, everyone!” said Mimi.

“Yeah!” said the members of the Keishin Academy girls’ basketball club as the flashback ends.

When the flashback ends, Mimi told her teammates about what happened after. “After our encounter with Asumi, Asumi and Shiromidai defeated Suzuridani with their own willpower used in honor of us. It seems that they are doing very well until they ultimately lose in the semifinal of the district tournament.”

“So, will you meet Asumi again?” asked Tomoka.

“Of course, Tomoka. I believe that Shiromidai is ready to compete for the upcoming tournament soon” said Mimi.

“Well, I hope when you’ll meet with her again, this time, it will be a rivalry between the two Ginga’s Pupils” said Tomoka.

“Yeah. At least I miss a few of it during the training” said Mimi.

“Hi, everyone!” said Subaru as he appeared from the door.

“It looks like I’m going to be one of the organizers of the upcoming tournament in the Ōta League. It will be the tournament named after me” said Subaru.

“Wow!” said the members of the Bravehearts with excitement.

“Subaru, I think you’re right. I heard that Shiromidai will compete in the next competition which is the cup that was named after you” said Mimi.

“Yep. And to believe this, Nashiba High School is ready to rebuild this year with a new breed of players” said Subaru.

“So, Subaru, what is the name of the tournament?” asked Tomoka.

“It is the Hasegawa Cup! It will be a week away to prepare for the tournament and since the Keishin Academy girls’ basketball club will be prepared to play for the tournament, then we should be ready to play against young teams in Ōta” said Subaru.

“Well, then, I think it’s your call, Mimi. Let’s give the Mimi’s group a chance to play for the Keishin Academy girls’ basketball club!” said Tomoka.

“Yeah!” said Maho, Saki, Airi and Hinata.

“Thanks, Tomoka! You’re supporting me to take my role as we’re going to play for the first time as starters” said Mimi.

“Of course!” said Tomoka.

“Okay, then! We have many things to do tomorrow and everyone will have our own activities. So, good night, everyone!” said Subaru as he leaves the room.

“Good night, Subaru!” said the members of the Bravehearts. The Keishin Academy Elementary School Basketball Team became first to confirm their participation at the Hasegawa Cup. Mimi and her teammates are contemplating to determine in order to become stronger as she will finally meet Asumi Hiramatsu again at the Hasegawa Cup to see two schools (Keishin and Shiromidai) competing for the first time since the passing of the torch between Tomoka’s group and Mimi’s group.

UP NEXT: Special Chapter 3: "Miyu and Rena"

 

[Sherwin Riga]

Supposedly, it will be an extra chapter to be posted for Volume 2 with the title "The Lavender Team: Team Gotō". Unfortunately, I forgot to copy the final draft into my drive and instead, it will be posted on Wenesday (December 6).:( Sorry for your inconvenience, but instead, I will post a new chapter which will be used as a teaser for Volume 3 which will be released next week. So, this new chapter will feature two players from Suzuridani Girls' Academy: Miyu Aida and Rena Ashihara. This is one of the two Special Chapters for Volume 3 I will be posting tonight. The other will be by January 2018. Enjoy reading Special Chapter 3!:)

Miyu Aida is already a first year junior high school student in Suzuridani Girls' Academy after she was recently graduated from elementary school. She give the ace leadership to Aya Miyakoōji. On the other hand, Rena Ashihara was improving her skills and attributes after her performance at the district tournament. She said that she will be improving her playing time in 5-on-5 match the next time she and her team and Mimi's team will meet again. Suzuridani will participate the Hasegawa Cup and it's Aya and Rena's chance to play together fairly against either Shiromidai or Keishin. Miyu and Rena have been friends since they have their different personalities. Although Miyu is passionate to lead with her teammates, Rena is naughty and impatient because she is trying to win the game for herself. Miyu have many secrets on Rena and during the training, Rena needs to improve her skills by creating her own signature move. All of Miyu and Rena's secrets will be revealed in this special chapter.

VOLUME 3: “A CHARMING SENSATION”
SPECIAL CHAPTER 3: “MIYU AND RENA”​

The flashback starts with Rena playing against her opponents from Den-en-chōfu Daichi Elementary School. She gets past on them and shoot the ball with the layup.

“Great job, Rena!” said Manaka as Rena grins with her first shot was her first two points in the game.

Later, Rena was able to shine in the game by shooting jump shots and layups. The game ended with the win for Suzuridani 51-42. Rena was so happy that she finally reaches the next level that she’ll be joining with Miyu and her teammates. The flashback ends with Rena saying, “Let’s head on to the next match against Hagisaka!” and the members of the Suzuridnai Girls’ Academy celebrate their victory.

At the gym of the Suzuridani Girls’ Academy, Rena Ashihara was trained along with her teammates in the school’s basketball team. She finally waited to compete for another major competition since the district tournament in Ōta last winter. Miyu Aida saw her teammates trained by Manaka Nobidome and walks to Rena.

“Rena! It’s so nice to see you again” said Miyu.

“Well, hello! I missed you so much” said Rena.

“I missed you too, Rena” said Miyu. Then, she and Rena walk outside the gym and Miyu asked Rena about how she feel after Miyu and her batchmates were graduated from elementary school. “How do you feel, Rena. How long you have been trained here since I left you and your teammates?”

“I’m fine right now, Miyu. Also, I begin improving my skills again and by the way, my Luminous Trick move has finally improved as well” said Rena.

“Wow! You have changed already, Rena. I believe in you and I would want to see your move right now” said Miyu.

“Okay! But before that, did you remember our game against Shiromidai, Miyu?” said Rena.

“Oh, I remember that match ago. That’s when you finally did the Luminous Trick move on your opponent” said Miyu.

“Well, yes, it is. I believe that I wanted to repeat this process again by showing the crossover and behind the back moves. Miyu, I was thinking that maybe we should pause the training for a second” said Rena.

“Sure” said Miyu as she and Rena return to the gym and Rena talks to Manaka.

Then, Manaka blew her whistle to stop the training. “Okay, team! Enough for the training for a while! Rena and Miyu will discuss about what happened in our team last year” said Manaka.

The new players including Michiyo Tsuchiya murmur as they wanted to hear the events from last year when Suzuridani Academy competes at the district tournament. Evnthough that Suzuridani lost to Shiromidai in the fourth round of the district tournament, which is also known as the quarterfinals.

“As you can see, Miyu is back for a day and actually, she has already grown up to become a first year middle school student. I want you to let you know your thoughts about her middle school team once we’ll open our basketball season by next month. It will be a real competition right now because I heard that Keishin has added some of the new members. No wonder what would be the difference between the two teams” said Manaka.

“Well, Manaka, I should also tell you that Tomoka and her batchmates will remain in Keishin for junior high school” said Miyu.

“Is that so, Miyu?” asked Manaka.

“Yeah. I believe that our rivalry with them will expand to middle school. I would tell you, Manaka, they are going to become stronger than before” said Miyu.

“I hope it would, Miyu. By the way, Aya said that she will be inviting you and Rena for tomorrow at the resort hotel. Aya join the training at the Kashii Sports Gym when our players were invited to visit there. It means that we’re gaining our chances to win competitions and no one will lose their hopes when the game is over” said Manaka.

“Of course, Manaka! I believe that you’re back to playing again since your injured knee was healed after the surgery” said Miyu.

“Yep! I can’t wait to play with my teammates again, but I believe that I will be applying for college exam” said Manaka.

“I hope that you will pass the examination, Manaka” said Miyu.

“Yeah, it’s been my dream to do this, but I was wondering if I will be coaching with them when I’m going to graduate soon” said Manaka.

“You’ll be fine, Manaka. I will take care of this once you’ll be graduating soon” said Miyu.

“Well, I would be happy to if you will take of me when I’m playing again” said Manaka.

“Sure!” said Miyu.

It seems that the players of Suzuridani Girls’ Academy are stopped talking to each other, Rena gives Miyu and Manaka thumbs up. It’s means that they’re ready to hear about the story of last year’s season.

“Okay, everyone! I think Miyu and Rena are ready to tell about our last year” said Manaka.

“So, last winter, we play against tougher teams in the district tournament and you know what, we nearly make it to the semifinals when we face off against a stronger team in Shiromidai. Shiromidai Elementary School is an elementary school, located a mile away from the Tamagawadai Park, beside the border of Den-en-chōfu and Setagaya. That school is very large, consisting of talented students, and it has the same level as us in basketball” said Miyu.

“So, how do you play against that school in the district tournament?” asked Manako’s daughter Hanako.

“We win our third game against Hagisaka Elementary School and then, Shiromidai defeated Takahata in the other game” said Rena.

“Wow! Takahata and Shiromidai were strong as in their reputation” said Ayumi Fujita.

“That’s true. When we beat Den-en-chōfu Daichi, our game against Hagisaka is way different compared to our first match against Keishin. As for Shiromidai and Takahata, their aces are competitive and confident to win. I remember that the fact that one day, Rena did a practice with Momoe Tachibana” said Miyu.

“Yeah! It was my training for my signature move Luminous Trick. I possibly pick some of the role players to test my move” said Rena.

“You see, Rena didn’t motivate herself during the first game against Keishin in the district tournament, but I believe that she did well in doing crossover moves against me. I fell when she is way stronger like Miyu” said Momoe.

“I didn’t lose my focus when I practice with her and I realized that I finally made it with my own technique” said Rena.

“So, how did she make that move?” asked Manaka Iwamura.

“I guess that it will be a long story if you asked me” said Rena. The flashback starts with the game between Hagisaka and Suzuridani happen and it’s already a 10-point lead game for Suzuridani.

“Suzuridani Girls’ Academy, member changes!” said the referee as Miyu and Rena switch their roles because Miyu and her batchmates were exhausted from the start of the second quarter.

“This is it. I’m here again. I can’t believe the crowd was looking at me again like the first two matches” said Rena, thinking about her atmosphere in the game.

“Hey, Rena! Don’t think about the audience. It’s just a game” said Aya.

“Okay!” said Rena. Rena now holds the ball while being guarded by Naoko Sasaki, a shooting guard from Hagisaka. She then did a crossover move and then she moves in to the perimeter.

“So, I have to focus on the game. I hope when she tries to steal it, I will not let her happen” said Rena. Rena would do the pump fake and then, shoots the jump shot. The ball would drive in to the basket and the score is now 22-10.

“Nice start, Rena!” said Miyu.

The crowd cheers for Rena as she finally did the jump shot.

“Wow! Nice shot, Rena!” said the members of the Suzuridani Girls’ Academy players.

“Thanks, everyone! Now, let’s continue our run!” said Rena.

“Yeah!” said the members of the Suzuridani Girls’ Academy players.

The next scene is where Aya and Nobu guarding a small forward player and then, Mariya Kikuchi tries to pass the ball to her teammates, but Rena steals the ball. Rena would be guarded by Naoko again. Then, she moves out of her, then she did a layup. The score is now 24-10 and it’s Suzuridani’s largest lead compared to the last two games.

“She did it again!” said Miyu.

The crowd was once again cheering for Rena and she did a great start to extend Suzuridani’s lead. On the next scene, Nobu Okuda, Yume Nakano, Wakana Kitano, Aya Miyakoōji and Rena Ashihara dominates the paint and defense including Rena and Nobu did an alley-oop through two players. The score is now 34-14 and the referee calls timeout for Hagisaka.

When Naoko currently holds the ball, she is determined in trying to stop the long run by Suzuridani as she unleashes a crossover move on Rena and Rena fell on the floor. Then, Naoko would shoot the ball and the ball enters to the hoop as Hagisaka finally have the strategy to lower down Suzuridani’s lead.

“I supposed that you’re strong, Rena, but unfortunately, my new strategy allows us to cut down the lead with our own moves” said Naoko.

“I expect to see that happen, Naoko, but when you’re trying to stop our run, it won’t work. I supposed that a real competition may be starting right now” said Rena.

“Okay, show what you got and we’ll ready to beat you!” said Naoko.

“I guess this is called a war and then, let’s do this!” said Rena.

Rena holds the ball and dribbles it as she is guarded by Naoko. Then, she had to imitate the move that Naoko did earlier and this time, her signature move was activated as she steps back while Naoko fails to steal it. Then, she did a crossover move again, then Naoko falls to the floor. Rena would shoot the ball with the jumper and the shot was counted two points. The score is now 36-16.

“I knew what you’re doing, Rena. We’ll see if you have the bigger competition you have” said Naoko.

“Oh, sure” said Rena. The next part is that Rena and Naoko trade baskets throughout the second quarter and the score is now 40-21. With only ten seconds left, Naoko tries to end the half with a three-point shot if she can able to beat Rena one-on-one.

“Well, you’re good, Rena. But you have forgot about this?” said Naoko as she steps back and went outside of three-point line as she shoots the ball with the three-point shot and Rena can’t able to block it as the ball went to the hoop and count it for three points. The score is now 40-24 and the first half is over.

“Well done, Rena!” said Manaka as Miyu and Manaka give high five to Rena, then her teammates.

“You see what I did, Miyu. I finally unleashed my Luminous Trick shot. I hope that I will use that again since I’m the best ace of this quarter. Right, Miyu?” said Rena.

“Yeah, of course, Rena. But we have todeal with the current situation where Higasaki is gaining momentum against us. I believe that I will have to play this time with my teammates. Then, I will give you a role Rena in the fourth quarter. We’ll make sure that we’ll win this match for sure” said Miyu.

“Okay, we need the sixth graders to get in and then, Rena will be inserted to the game again in the fourth. Understand, girls?” said Manaka.

“Yes, ma’am!” said the members of the Suzuridani Girls’ Academy basketball team.

“Then, let’s win!” said Manaka as she and the players did a power-up team chant.

“Okay!” said the members of the Suzuridani Girls’ Academy basketball team.

The game continues as Rena watches Miyu and girls have tried to stop the momentum of the Hagisaka Elementary School. When the third quarter is over, the score is now 52-38 and since the other players like Nobu, Yume, Watana and Aya have able to lower the offense of the Higasaki players, Rena is ready to step up again for the fourth quarter.

With four minutes remaining, the score is now 55-42 as Rena dribbles the ball and sees her teammates being guarded. Naoko would guard Rena once again as Rena tries to get free from that situation. Later, Miyu came out of the perimeter and Rena throws the ball to Miyu, who would catch the ball and do the turnaround fadeaway shot. The ball would drive in to the basket and the score is now 57-42.

“Nice pass, Rena!” said Miyu as she gives Rena a high five.

“Thanks, Miyu. Now, let’s finish the game what we got!” said Rena.

“Okay!” said the members of the Suzuridani Girls’ Academy basketball team.

Then, both teams trade points while the game now reaches to 1:30 remaining with the score of 61-50. Rena was guarded by Naoko again while Miyu was guarded by Tsubasa Nakajima. Then, she tries to pass the ball to Miyu, but Tsubasa steals the ball.

“What?!” said Miyu and Rena.

Tsubasa was so fast she can run and then shoots the ball with the uncontested shot, which Miyu can’t reach the ball to block it.

“Darn it!” said Miyu as the ball drives in to the basket and the score is now 61-53.

The next possession came when Miyu dribbles the ball and passes the ball to Momoe. Momoe was able to do the alley-oop to Miyu and the shot was good as Suzurdani gets two points with the score of 63-53.

“Well, then, I hope that we can’t let them shoot” said Rena as she tries to block Tsubasa’s shot and it worked. Then, Rei Sadatomi gets the offensive rebound and then, Momoe and Rena tries to stop her.

“Two against one? What an unexpected idea you have here. But you have no chance to beat me!” said Rei as she would do the floater, but Rena blocks it and the foul was called for Rena for the first time. The ball would drive in to the basket as the score is now 63-55.

“Dark uniform, foul. Number 13, blocking. Basket count, one shot” said the referee as Manaka and the players shock as Rena committed her first foul in the game.

“Whoa! That’s her first foul. I can’t believe it!” said Manaka.

“You’re trying to block me with your hands, but since it reaches the fact that you take it seriously, it still counts though” said Rei.

“Oh, I’m very serious right now. You’re not getting away from this once I got the ball again” said Rena.

“Okay, bring it on!” said Rei.

With 28 seconds remaining, Rei has to shoot one shot and made it well. The score is now 63-56. When Miyu is now holding the ball, she is graciously happy to see her team winning, but in order to stop the defense of the Hagisaka Elementary School, they have to keep the ball through the end.

“You’re getting tougher, Miyu. I can’t wait to see your teammates getting stronger enough against us” said Tsubasa.

“I hope so, but I’m sorry to say that I’ll do the last shot and it ends now!” said Miyu as she goes on to shoot the ball with the jump shot and Tsubasa misses her block on Miyu’s shot. The ball would drive in to the basket and the score is now 65-56.

“Alright!” said Miyu as the game reaches 10 seconds remaining. The members of the Suzuridani Girls’ Academy were glad to win the game against Hagisaka Elementary School. Manaka smile on the players and Miyu is gaining her momentum this time.

On the final succession, Naoko was guarded by Rena.

“Even though that we will lose, let’s see if the game is over with this shot right there” said Naoko.

“Okay! Take this!” said Rena as she blocks Naoko’s shot and the buzzer sounds. With the score of 65-56, Suzuridani Girls’ Academy had advance to the fourth round of the Ōta district tournament against either Shiromidai or Takahata.

“We did it, girls!” said the members of the Suzuridani Girls’ Academy as they congratulate Rena on trying to end the game with the block on her opponent.

“Wow! They’re finally made it! We’re finally going to play in the fourth round, the quarterfinals of the tournament are going to be tougher than we thought” said Manaka.

The members of the Suzuridani Girls’ Academy continue to celebrate the victory as the flashback ends.

“With the score 65-56, we’re going to battle against either Shiromidai or Takahata in the fourth round of the Ōta district tournament. Right then, a day before that match, Rena had once again practice her crossover moves as she tried to improve her Luminous Trick move on the next game” said Miyu.

“Then, it was that time when Aya, Miyu and I have met each other at the balcony” said Rena.

The flashback starts with the three have met each other at the hallway.

“Hey, looks like we have our next opponent in the Ōta district tournament” said Miyu.

“Who will it be?” asked Rena.

“So, Miyu, you found it from Manaka’s room. Right?” said Aya.

“Yep” said Miyu as she opened the letter and it was revealed that Suzuridani’s next opponent in the Ōta district tournament will be the Shiromidai Elementary School, led by Michiko Takeda and Asumi Hiramatsu. Miyu shocked that her team will battle against another stronger team.

“I can’t believe that we’re going to face off against them” said Aya.

“Yep” said Miyu. “I think this team is very stronger than before, but this time, without Tomoka, they have Michiko as their ace.”

“A game against Shiromidai will be piece of cake. Right, girls?” said Rena.

“Yeah. Hopefully, we need to guard them down with those two” said Miyu.

“Of course, Miyu” said Aya and Rena as the flashback ends with Michiyo raised her hand to ask Rena a question.

“Rena, why Shiromidai became your opponent for the fourth round?” asked Michiyo.

“Well, you see, Shiromidai is stronger when it comes to dominating the game with their versatile moves” said Rena.

“I was so glad that you made it to the quarterfinals and what a great game you beat Hagisaka, Rena” said Sakura Akaike.

“Well, it wasn’t a game that is more competitive, but the level of winning is gaining above the rest” said Rena.

“So, Miyu, I wonder what happened in your game against Shiromidai” said Hanako.

“Back then, it was Rena and I were working together to beat Asumi and Michiko. But of course, it wasn’t expected to see that happen when a miracle happens in the last second” said Miyu.

“Oh, what an unexpected game we went to know about!” said Michiyo.

“Okay, fine. I’ll tell you about the game against Shiromidai” said Miyu.

Part 2 will be on the next post.

 

[Sherwin Riga]

"Miyu and Rena" Part 2

The flashback starts with the game between Shiromidai and Suzuridani begin.

Miyu and her teammates begin to dominate the first quarter with the 11-4 run before Michiko and her teammates begin to gain the favor by scoring 7 consecutive points to tie the game.

The game reaches second quarter with both Shiromidai and Suzuridani score 11. Rena, Aya, Nobu, Yume and Watana are in for the second quarter. Tomoka and her friends were watching at the Nishina Stadium along with Jun Gotō and the Angels. They seated together in one row.

“Hey, Maho! Is that Rena Ashihara?” said Tsubaki. Maho saw Rena on a Suzuridani uniform.

“Yes, it was, Tsubaki. I believe that she is playing again” said Maho.

“I believe that Rena is hopefully going to battle against my friend Asumi” said Mimi.

“Mimi, I think your friend is doing great right now. I wonder what is going up to” said Tomoka.

“You see, Asumi has the same level as mine, but I got a higher potential over her” said Mimi.

“Wow! I never expected to have a higher potential in your group, Mimi” said Saki.

“Yeah, Saki. I hope that Asumi will be able to beat Suzuridani with her own skills” said Mimi.

“She’ll be fine to make sure Michiko is smiling on her once she passes the ball to her teammates or shoots perfectly” said Tomoka.

“Yes, indeed, Tomoka” said Mimi.

The second quarter starts with Asumi now holds the ball and Rena guards her.

“It’s going to be the first time that I will be playing with you. I hope that this game will be fun” said Asumi.

“Well, I hope that our first match is not much different than our one-on-one match. But if you think you’re going to past me, then I will use my defense of my own” said Rena.

“I don’t think it’s going to happen, but my strength is better than you” said Asumi.

“Well, I will be luckier if you try to get past on me. Then, bring it on!” said Rena.

“Sure” said Asumi as Asumi and Rena walk to the perimeter and then, Rena tries to steal, but Asumi pump fakes it and then, shoots the ball with the jumper. The shot was good and Shiromidai gains the lead for the first time since they earlier score 7 points after trailed by 7 points.

“How are you getting stronger than me?” asked Rena.

“You see, I made time to train with my teammates, but then, I actually begin shooting at any range with my own aura. I could possibly shoot at any range by going to any lucky post areas, in order to make the shots go in” said Asumi.

“Is that so?” asked Rena.

“Well, of course. But you can’t never beat me with my shooting” said Asumi as she goes on defense mode.

“That Asumi is going to pay us off, we need to work things out” said Rena.

“Okay!” said Aya, Nobu, Yume and Watana.

The next play is when Asumi Hiramatsu, Aya Masamune, Teruko Sugiyama, Chinami Kasai and Mao Asakura would go their defense mode as they are trying to block or steal any chances Suzuridani made. Some were failed, and some were succeeded.

Rena would shoot the ball after doing the Luminous Trick move. The score is tied at 13.

Aya Masamune would shoot the ball after Asumi prevents from receiving a turnover by passing the ball to Aya in the low post area. Aya did an uncontested shot to regain their lead again: 15-13.

Watana would shoot the ball with the fadeaway jumper over Teruko. The score is now tied again at 15.

Teruko and Asumi would do the alley-oop and then, Asumi did a dunk that was used by Miyu, who scores the first two points in the first quarter. The lead is now back to Shiromidai with the score of 17-15.

Nobu would shoot the three-point jump shot and it was nothing but net. The score is now favored to Suzuridani: 18-17.

Asumi would shoot the ball with the three-point shot after Masamune did crossover moves on Yume and Rena and passes the ball to Asumi, who was open. The score is now 20-18.

Rena would shoot the ball after she did crossover moves on Asumi. Then, she did a jumper on Teruko and the score is tied at 20.

Teruko would miss a shot and Yume gets the rebound. Then, Yume passes the ball to Nobu and followed by a fadeaway shot from Yuma, who got the ball from Nobu. The score is now 22-20 as Suzuridani lead by 1 with only a minute remaining.

“I hope that the other players are okay until the quarter ends, we will take a break for little bit” said Rena as she is running to the perimeter to defend Teruko. Asumi was defended by Watana while Aya prepares to screen on Chinami. That way Suzuridani will gain advantage, but they’re going to wait for it.

Asumi then dribbles the ball to move in with the crossover move and then, passes the ball to Teruko. Then, as Teruko is about to shoot, Rena blocks it and the ball went to Aya. Aya would try to finish the game with a shot to be made as she’s going to shoot the ball with the turnaround jumper.

“Watch out!” said Watana as Aya was confronted by Chinami, who blocks the former’s shot to end the second quarter with the score of 22-20. The game is now favored to Suzuridani after two quarters. The buzzer was heard, and the players were exhausted and decided to take a ten-minute interval.

“Great job defending our court, girls!” said Manaka. “But I have to tell you that, it’s going to be a hard to win this game. Even that we have this lineup, they are still doing good. I wonder what would be the lineup would be when they will be adjusting their lineups.”

“I think it’s time for us to change our line-up” said Miyu as she decided to have Miyu and Aya on the line-up, then Rena will play on the fourth quarter again. The game is back with the third quarter is about to start.

During the third quarter, Suzuridani maintained the lead, but Shiromidai kept scoring without missing their shots for the rest of the quarter. They traded points with Michiko and Miyu score higher points.

“Hmm, this is getting bad. I believe that Shiromidai is getting on us. However, with Miyu and her teammates get stronger than before, we might win our game” said Rena as she continues to sit out until a timeout for Shiromidai called when Miyu shoots a three-pointer. The score is now tied at 42 and Miyu call Rena to play the game again.

“We have to two minutes remaining in the game, girls. I can’t believe Shiromidai is dominating the game since the third quarter and we were able to cut it down to tie the game” said Manaka.

“I’m sure that we need to regain our lead, but in order to do that, we need to stop Shiromidai’s defense” said Miyu.

“Apparently, this is going to be most crucial part that we’re all waiting for” said Manaka.

“I should tell you that Aya will take rest and then, Rena will enter to the game. Then, I will adjust the rest of it” said Miyu.

“Can this strategy to be happened?” asked Rena.

“Of course, not, Rena. It’ll be our last hope to win this game” said Miyu.

“That’s right, Miyu. Rena, you should watch out for the shots and make sure that your defensive skills are better than the others” said Manaka.

“Okay!” said Rena.

“Now, Manaka, do you have ideas in trying to beat them?” asked Miyu.

“Yes, there is, Miyu. Our offensive stops should be able to lower Shiromidai’s scoring outtakes while our defensive stops will make sure that a double team may allow the opponents to be confused” said Manaka.

“Are you sure you’re gonna do it?” asked Rena.

“Yes, Rena. We have to make sure that our game will be ours” said Miyu.

“Right!” said the members of the Suzuridani Girls’ Academy.

The continues with 1:19 remaining in the game as Masamune passes the ball to Akane Tamaki. Tamaki would pass the ball to Asumi. As the gambling game begins for both teams, the time is about run out.

“So, you’re trying to stop us from scoring with your defense. I think I gonna teach you a lesson on how the strengths done” said Asumi.

Asumi crossovers the move and finally prepare to shoot the ball with the turnaround jumper. The ball went to drive in to the basket and Shiromidai regains the lead with the score of 44-42.

The next possession comes with Miyu and Watana are trading their passes.

“Michiko, I think a competition is a competition. I hope that we’re going to make this game a memorable yet” said Miyu.

“Well, then, be my guest” said Michiko.

Miyu observes the court while Michiko is determined to prepare for the next play.

Then, Miyu and Michiko run in to the key and then, Miyu would do the layup while Michiko tries to block it. The ball drives in to the basket and Michiko was received a foul. The score is now tied at 44 and Suzuridani needs to shoot one free throw, in order to regain the lead.

“Light uniform, foul. Number 4, blocking. Basket count, oneshot” said the referee.

“This is getting crucial out there” said Manaka.

“With only 25 seconds remaining, either one of them will walk away with the victory” said Maho.

“I never expect to see that happen” said Saki.

“Michiko and Miyu, the gamble is on to your shoulders. We’ll see whose team gets the miracle” said Tomoka.

“Don’t lose hope, Asumi” said Mimi.

“You can do it, Miyu and Rena!” said Tsubaki and Hiiragi.

The free throw was given to Miyu as she dribbles the ball before shooting it. Then, she shoots the ball and it was missed as the ball bounces off from the rim, in order todetermine who should get the ball. Rena gets the ball and tries to shoot it, but it misses it and the ball went to Akane.

Akane would run through the three-point line and was defended by Kumi and Miyu. Then, a double team activates. Akane see Asumi open and throws the ball to her.

“Catch! This is our last chance!” said Akane.

“Okay!” said Asumi as she got the ball. When she is about the shoot the ball with the jumper, Rena tries to block her.

“It’s over, Asumi!” said Rena as Asumi passes the ball to Michiko by doing a pump fake. Then, Michiko would shoot the ball with the floater that was used by Tomoka and the ball drives in to the basket. The time is up, and the referee waits the decision if Michiko’s shot was good.

And then, a miracle happened.

“Basket count! 46-44. Shiromidai Elementary School will advance to the semifinals of the Ōta district tournament” said the referee, declaring the Shiromidai Elementary School to advance to the semifinals of the Ōta district tournament.

“We did it, Michiko! You’re a miracle girl!” said the members of the Shiromidai Elementary School.

“Congratulations, Michiko!” said Asumi. “You’re a real hero!” Asumi hugged on Michiko with tears of joy made Michiko happy.

“Wow! I can’t believe that Michiko is risen as the “Miracle Girl”. She is born as a basketball player and she is born as a renowned girl who visions about the future” said Tomoka.

“I can’t believe Suzuridani lost” said Maho.

“That was an amazing match I ever seen, Maho!” said Tsubaki.

“It really is expected. I told you that a miracle is gonna happen” said Maho.

“That was amazing! I think Shiromidai is finally come out on top and Suzuridani tried to fight on, but it’s too late” said Hiiragi.

“Wow! I never thought that Shiromidai is about to lose, but their hopes are promised and it’s finally true” said Mimi.

“Asumi never lose her hopes before, but she overcome something she want to be a friend of” said Jun.

“Michiko and Asumi were friends together. Just like us” said Saki.

“Oh, yeah, Saki. Come on, everyone! Let’s go outside to see Miyu and others” said Tomoka.

“Yeah!” said the members of the Keishin Academy girls’ basketball club and Jun’s Angels.

Michiko shook hands with Miyu as a sign of respect of two teams who have fought for the spot for the semifinals of the Ōta district tournament. It seems that Michiko and Miyu were finally become rivals.

“Let’s play together again, Michiko” said Miyu.

“Me, too, Miyu. Let’s meet again soon” said Michiko.

After the game, Miyu and her teammates have left the Nishina Stadium. They would be confronted by Tomoka and her friends along with Jun’s Angels.

“Miyu!” said Tomoka as she and her friends walk to Miyu and his teammates. “It’s been a week and you made it so far in the tournament.”

“Yeah, of course. But we lost, we tried hard to stop them, and they are still doing great against us. Of course, our lesson of the game is when the game is over, any sign of victory and defeat would be made. I never thought that we should have sent the game to overtime, but Michiko was so strong” said Miyu.

“It seems that you are very truly the best player in the game. You score well against them with your jump shots and fadeaway shots” said Tomoka.

“Well, that was fine for me to say this. I can’t lose my heart when losing and since we have trained well before every game. As soon as the game begins, we’ll make sure that we accomplish the goal that Manaka wants” said Miyu.

“Say, what do you expect to see a rematch against them?” asked Tomoka.

“I think it was great honor to have it, but as soon as we’re improving, we’ll going make sure that we’re going to win” said Miyu.

“That’s the spirit, Miyu! I think you contemplate your future. Of course, we’re going to be graduated in spring” said Maho.

“Yeah, of course. Right, girls?” said Miyu. Kumi, Misuzu, Ran and Momoe nod together.

“As you can see, we’re almost going to finish our career in elementary school before we move on to middle school. We’re going to be stronger as ever” said Kumi.

“That’s right, Kumi. We should believe in Miyu and we should be ready to face real competition in middle school” said Misuzu.

“So, let’s see if we will face each other again in the middle school, Keishin. We’ll make sure we should able to advance together” said Momoe.

“Yeah” said the members of Keishin Academy girls’ basketball club.

“Our dreams have been shattered again, but this time, we’ll going to redeem ourselves next time” said Ran.

“Well, then, I will be asking you if you want to stay in Keishin with your friends, so that we should continue our rivalry, Tomoka. Do you want to stay in Keishini?” said Miyu.

“Of course, Miyu. I looked to everyone in our team and to your team. I believe that we should be able to make it to the top once we finally master our skills” said Tomoka.

“That’s a great answer, Tomoka. I believe in you” said Miyu.

“Thanks, Miyu. It was so fun that we watched your game” said Tomoka.

“At least we tried to fight on until the end” said Miyu. “Tomoka, where are you now?”

“We’re going to celebrate Shiromidai’s victory at the Shiromidai Elementary School. We’ll see you soon, Miyu! Good luck in middle school!” said Tomoka as she and her friends waved goodbye to Miyu and her teammates. Tomoka, her friends and Jun’s Angels were leaving the stadium to go to Shiromidai Elementary School to see Michiko and the Shiromidai Elementary School girls’ basketball team.

“Bye, Tomoka! See you around!” said Miyu as she and her teammates also wave goodbyes to Tomoka and her friends.

“I can’t believe that we’re going to have our farewell party in Suzuridani soon, Miyu” said Kumi.

“Yeah, of course, Kumi. I can’t wait to see Tomoka and her friends competing again next year in middle school, but the fifth graders will have to finish their elementary school studies next academic year” said Miyu.

“Yep. Well, let’s go home, girls!” said Manaka.

“Okay!” said the members of the Suzuridani Girls’ Academy basketball team. The flashback ends after the members of the Suzuridani Girls’ Academy basketball team have leave the stadium, in order to go back to school and prepare to go home.

“At the end of the day, we never achieve our goal to win the district tournament as we lose to the Shiromidai Elementary School. It was heartbreaking when a miracle had happened when Michiko came out of nowhere to shoot the game-winning shot” said Miyu.

“Right now, Miyu is now in middle school and she’s ready to be with the team again. So, Miyu, did you have anything else you say before I’ll let the players to go back to training?” said Manaka.

“Well, I hope Tomoka and her friends will stay in Keishin for middle school. But I don’t know when the promise is kept or not” said Miyu.

“Oh, I see. Maybe you should talk to Aya later tonight when you’re at home” said Rena.

“Oh, okay” said Miyu.

“It seems that the story is done. Let’s get back to training, girls!” said Manaka.

“Yeah!” said the members of the Suzuridani Girls’ Academy basketball team.

After the training, the members of the Suzuridani Girls’ Academy basketball team were taking a twenty-minute break. Miyu and Rena were outside again.

“Uh, Rena, I think you and Aya will have to work together when you’re playing at the Hasegawa Cup” said Miyu.

“Why, Miyu?” asked Rena.

“Since you’re going to be a sixth grader, you need to step up to win games and when you’re in the game, don’t lose your cool. I trust you and I wanted to be your coach when I’m going to wear my middle school uniform” said Miyu.

“Well, I hope that it will be a real competition that I’m going to expect to make that happen” said Rena.

“You see, Rena, you’re getting stronger and I want to know that you should be ready to battle against the players on your age” said Miyu.

“I know that I’m strong, Miyu. I know that” said Rena.

“But I have to tell you that any ace has their own roles and if you want to be an ace, start improving with your heart” said Miyu.

“Start improving with my heart. Okay, got it! Thanks, Miyu for the advice” said Rena.

“You’re welcome. I’ll be watching your skills, Rena, when the training is back” said Miyu.

“Okay!” said Rena.

“Then, let’s go back to the gym again” said Miyu.

“Okay, Miyu!” said Rena as they went back to the gym. Miyu watched Rena and her teammates as the training is back. Miyu and Rena were close friends when they’re teammates in the Suzuridani Girls’ Academy basketball team. Suzuridani is one of the teams that they’re going to participate at the Hasegawa Cup this coming March 30 & 31.

UP NEXT: Extras 1: "The Lavender Team: Team Gotō"

Announcement: The Extras will be posted on Wednesday and Friday while the new chapter for Volume 3 will be released on December 10. Thanks for reading!

 

[Sherwin Riga]

I finished the draft version of Chapter 28 and for the first time, full details of the new planet known as Kurenai are revealed. Also, this chapter will be a teaser as part of the upcoming series High School DxD Hero to be released in 2018. Volume 3 will be released with new chapters to be posted starting December 10 (Sunday). Get ready to see the six teams who will be competing for the Hasegawa Cup. So, be sure to check back for new chapters of the series!

Finally, the Extras for Rooks, Knights and Bravehearts Volume 2 will be released tonight! On the first Extras, it will be the conversation between Jun's Angels and Team Gotō. On Friday, another Extras chapter will be posted as Mimi Balguerie and Asumi Hiramatsu tells to the members of Team Gotō about Ginga's Pupils. Enjoy!:)

Team Gotō is composed of friends of Jun Gotō and these students who were Tomoka and Michiko's friends as well. While Tomoka was still loved by Team Gotō, Michiko forget them because of her own personality as she tried to play basketball on her own and try to be better than Tomoka. Usually, they were from section 6-2 and also, they cooperated with the Angels since they love their songs. Also, they always trust Jun and her bandmates because they wanted to become singers like them in the future.

VOLUME 2: “FRIENDS AND RELATIONS”
EXTRAS 1: “THE LAVENDER TEAM: TEAM GOTŌ”​

Team Gotō is composed of students who were closed to Jun Gotō and her band The Angels. The main difference is that their members are coming from the sixth grade and have their closed relationship with Tomoka Minato. They previously befriended Michiko Takeda, but due to her friendship with Tomoka was over, Hitomi and her friends ended their friendship with Michiko, but not Tomoka because she wanted to keep them together despite of her obsession of playing basketball.

While staying at the mansion of the Misawa Resort Hotel, the members of Team Gotō have a conversation with Jun and her bandmates, the Angels. Shigeru is not included in the team because he didn't appear on Chapter 24.

“Team, I think you’re tired from playing cards. Okay, I’m going to ask you some questions that we want to know” said Jun.

“Okay!” said Hitomi, Masami, Kyōji, Masanobu, Anzu, Nanako and Dairoku.

“Great! I hope everyone will have fun after all questions we have” said Jun.

“Okay, guys. Jun and the Angels will ask some questions. So, let’s make this conversation private. Okay?” said Kyō.

“Okay!” said Hitomi, Masami, Kyōji, Masanobu, Anzu, Nanako and Dairoku.

“Well, then, here we go!” said Sakura as she closes the door of their room. Michiko’s team and Akiko’s team were in the second room along with Tomoka while the sixth room will be occupied by Team Gotō and Jun’s Angels.

Jun: What are your expectations for your team?

“Our team is to keep their relationship with the Angels and also, their friends including Tomoka. Another expectation is that we loved to hear music and the songs they have are enthusiastic and great tune of melody” said Hitomi.

Nozomi: What kind of instrument did you use?

“I like to play an electric guitar” said Nanako.

“For me, I like to play a trumpet” said Masami.

“I like to use my electric piano to play classic songs” said Anzu.

“I preferred to use violin. It’s so harmonic and smoothly” said Kyōji.

“When I was a kid, I like to play a lyre, but I continue playing it” said Masanobu.

“In my former band, I used drums to hear it loud” said Dairoku.

“I played bass guitar just like Jun and Nozomi did” said Hitomi.

Jun: Wow! I think you’re interested in creating your own team, Hitomi and Nanako. But you need one more. I think Anzu can join your group.

“We’re doing well in using these instruments, but we expected to compose a song” said Hitomi.

“Anzu is good in using the electronic piano. Kurumi trained her while her sister Kōme started to play her own bass guitar” said Nanako.

“I trained her to know the basics of using the bass guitar” said Kurumi.

“We’re supposed to play together, but thanks to Jun and her bandmates, I think my sister will join our team” said Kōme.

“I will be glad if we will have two groups to perform. I will call our team as The Fans of the Angels” said Anzu.

“Nice name you got, Anzu!” said Sora.

“Yep. Just because we’re fans who loved your songs” said Anzu.

“Yeah. I hope we can perform together as we’re going to compose new songs” said Sora.

“Of course, Sora!” said Anzu, Nanako and Hitomi.

Sora: When are your birthdays?

“My birthday is on May 18” said Hitomi.

“My birthday falls on April 28” said Masami.

“My birthday is on next year, January 14” said Kyōji.

“My birthday is on September 10” said Masanobu.

“My birthday falls on May 15” said Anzu.

“My birthday celebrates on August 20” said Nanako.

“My birthday is on December 19” said Dairoku.

“It seems that your birthdays are held on your school days, but I hoped that your birthdays will be your lucky day” said Jun.

“Yeah!” said Hitomi, Masami, Kyōji, Masanobu, Anzu, Nanako and Dairoku.

“It’s important that you have wishes” said Nozomi.

“Then, you have a wonderful life when that day falls your birthday” said Kyō.

“Yes, it’s fun to celebrate your birthday” said Sakura.

“Yeah!” said Hitomi, Masami, Kyōji, Masanobu, Anzu, Nanako and Dairoku.

Kurumi: What is your favorite color?

“Lavender” said Hitomi.

“Me too! Lavender is my favorite color” said Masami.

“Blue violet” said Kyōji.

“Purple” said Masanobu.

“Wisteria” said Anzu.

“Cerulean is my favorite color for my clothing style” said Nanako.

“Royal blue” said Dairoku.

“Very interesting! There are many colors you can get” said Sakura.

“It’s very important that it’s not the type the color you are choosing in clothes, but your life” said Kurumi.

“There are many colors we would choose. I like dark blue because of my hair” said Yuzuha.

“Oh, that’s lovely, Yuzuha! I like orange because I like to be warmer than colder” said Kurumi.

“I like to live in a colder room like every room in this mansion” said Sakura.

“You’re fine in both warmer and colder places” said Kyō.

“Of course, my brother! I never lost with you because you and I were together” said Kurumi.

“Yeah” said Kyō.

Kōme: When a summer vacation comes, what place will you go to?

“Sapporo” said Hitomi.

“Nagoya” said Masami.

“Aichi” said Kyōji.

“Fukushima” said Masanobu.

“Kyoto” said Anzu.

“Shizuoka” said Nanako.

“Hyōgo” said Dairoku.

“Our team’s dream place is to go to Kyoto” said Jun.

“Why Kyoto?” asked Hitomi.

“Because it’s so warm and I like to sing there from the bottom of my heart” said Jun.

“Well, I hope we also want to go to that place” said Masami and Nanako.

“I think they’re expecting to go there by summer, so you have to wait for it” said Anzu.

“Okay!” said Masami and Nanako.

“When the summer begins, it’ll be our time to go to some places that are popular in Japan” said Kōme.

“Yeah, I believe that we should go out there to enjoy in the breeze” said Kurumi.

“Yep. This is going to be more fun to enjoy in summer” said Kyō.

Yuzuha: What are your thoughts in composing songs?

“Well, I like to compose songs with harmonized tunes” said Hitomi.

“You can feel the songs right on your heart” said Masami.

“When doing songs, you have to make sure that it’s your own words” said Kyōji.

“I feel good to write songs, but you have the desire and passion. Just think about everything you see” said Masanobu.

“Through your eyes and ears, they sense to see and hear. It’s important to put it on your mind” said Dairoku.

“When you create a song, you have to add feelings and emotions to make the song interesting” said Nanako.

“When it’s done, you will sing out loud with your own voice” said Anzu.

“See, what I told you when you create a song. In our team, we composed songs to bring our rhythm and tune come to life” said Jun.

“With that, there are many genres in music and you can choose it whatever you want” said Nozomi.

“Japanese pop is popular in the country because there are many aspiring singers who have wished to sing with their hearts” said Sora.

“You can sing with us when we practice for the performance and trust me, it is fun to sing it out” said Kurumi.

“Microphones and sound recorders can hear your voices while you have the passion to sing” said Kōme.

“Looking forward to the future, it means that you have desires and dreams in the making when you enter to the world of Japanese pop music” said Yuzuha.

“It’s so glad that we already composed songs under one united team and you should expect to create your own songs too” said Sakura.

“Just think hard and do your best when you compose a song into your heart” said Kyō.

“Well, I think we should be together like a team of smile of peace. Let’s hear it out and enjoy singing!” said Jun.

“Yeah!” said the members of Jun’s Angels and Team Gotō.

UP NEXT: Extras 2: "Ginga's Pupils in Ōta"

 

[Sherwin Riga]

It's one hour after midnight and I have to post the second Extras for Volume 2! This post will end Volume 2 and starting tomorrow, Volume 3 will be posted starting with the new chapter "A Situation Between Two Schools". So, get ready to see some basketball action with the six teams and also, Mimi and her teammates will play for the first time without Tomoka and her friends. Enjoy reading the second Extra for Volume 2!

Ginga Haseagwa was an archaeologist and he travels around Japan and its neighbors including Hawaii. During the first term of school and summer, Ginga created his own training camp for the young basketball players. That's when Mimi Balguerie and Asumi Hiramatsu joining the camp for three months before summer. The group was called as Ginga's Pupils. They are basketball players who have been trained by Ginga Hasegawa and they only compete for the district's basketball league. Right now, with the Hasegawa Cup reaches soon, Ginga's Pupils will be joining Team Aurora as they will be hoping to play together for the first time since its last appearance in late January. Mimi and Asumi will tell a narrative story about how their group was formed.

VOLUME 2: “FRIENDS AND RELATIONS”
EXTRAS 2: “GINGA’S PUPILS IN ŌTA”​

When the archaeologist Ginga Hasegawa was returning from a trip to Kyushu, he established his own training camp for the young basketballers to gain their attributes and skills. Mimi and Asumi narrate the story about their group in Ōta while the members of Team Gotō want to know about them.

“I wonder what is the composition of your group, Asumi?” asked Anzu.

“Oh, what a good question you got, Anzu. You see, Mimi and I were members of the so-called Ginga’s Pupils. Ginga was a great coach and a former player in Tokyo when he played for the amateur tournaments” said Asumi.

“Since you are trained by Subaru’s father, you have improved your skills further” said Dairoku.

“Yes, it is. I worked out with my friends and I supposed that they are going stronger than before” said Asumi.

“We are representing the young girls of Ōtawho we’re aspired to become superstars in the future” said Mimi.

“That’s great! I think that you are doing great in improving your skills and I hope that when you and your teammates are doing their teamwork, maybe you might have big efforts on your team” said Nanako.

“Yeah, exactly. Keishin and Shiromidai will soon to become more dominant next school year when we enter the sixth grade” said Mimi.

“Of course, we couldn’t have done our unfinished business to do, but since Ginga will be here in the tournament, maybe he will see our progress in the tournament” said Asumi.

“Oh, I hope that when both teams will face each other at the Hasegawa Cup, it’ll be a match that will never forget” said Hitomi.

“Yeah. I assume that my team will be here at the resort hotel by Monday while Mimi’s team will play an exhibition match against the leaders of each team” said Asumi.

“I believe that Megumi and her team will be playing against her mentor Tomoka and her team. It will be a match to see how the leaders of each team to show their skills in basketball” said Hitomi.

“Yep. Now, let’s back to the topic. Ginga’s Pupils is a team composed of the players in Ōta that have stronger attributes and skills while their potential is much higher than their teammates. Their leader is none other than Noriko Toyama” said Mimi.

“Desired to become a superstar, we have many opportunities to become stronger as we are. Thanks to Ginga, we have signature moves that we have since we have our own ideas” said Asumi.

“My signature move Aurora Age has the ability to check the court to determine if the players are guarded by their opponents and like Saki’s Ice Age, my teammates and I will run faster in the court and shoot perfectly with high speed. When Saki shoots the ball with her speed, I will shoot the ball easier than just a normal shot” said Mimi.

“Recalling our past, we were called by Ginga when he saw us that our potential is higher than just a normal player. Eventually, his training camp was opened for business, composed of players that have great attributes and skills” said Asumi.

“The training was lasted for five months before we decided to part ways” said Mimi.

“So, how did you end up joining Keishin?” asked Masami.

“I went to Subaru’s house to play with Tomoka. The summer is about to be over and I believe that I wanted to step up for Keishin. That’s why my teammates Tsubaki, Hiiragi, Masami and Kagetsu, my best friend, have joined my own team to challenge Tomoka’s team, but we lost. Although we were outclassed by them, we were able to help them in the game against Suzuridani Girls’ Academy” said Mimi.

“Ah, you’re great in playing, Mimi. Since you’re the ace after Tomoka and her team left for middle school in Keishin, you’re going to work out with the new members like Himeko” said Kyōji.

“Yeah, Kyōji. I really like to play with Tomoka and her teammates because they determined to be brave and wanted to play with their own hearts. For me, I followed Tomoka’s footsteps to become the team captain of the Keishin Academy girls’ basketball club and that’s the reason why I wear my new armband that Tomoka give me during my birthday” said Mimi as she showed her armband to the members of Team Gotō.

“You seemed to be enjoyed playing with your friends recently. I believe that you’re going to be fine when you’re in the court again” said Hitomi.

“Of course, Hitomi. That’s what Ginga’s Pupils have their own duties inside and outside the court” said Mimi.

“As for me, Shiromidai was a school that I went there since first grade and I finally played basketball with my friends like Jun and my other friends” said Asumi.

“So, does that mean that your friends have played basketball with you?” asked Masanobu.

“Yes. As always, I played together with my friends in my home and in school, but then, I joined tryouts for the varsity team where I finally made it with my shooting skills” said Asumi.

“Jun says that you have a lot of skills in basketball, but how did you end up shooting well?” asked Kyōji.

“By mastering my shooting skills using the Comet Shot. The ball will drive to the basket with the speed like a comet” said Asumi.

“So, amazing, Asumi! I think you’re modelling that shot to Shintaro Midorima, the guy who perfects his shooting skills” said Masami.

“That’s right, Masami. I watched the games of Shintaro and I wanted to imitate with my own. That’s why the speed of the ball will be determined when shooting a normal shot or a three-point shot” said Asumi.

“It’s so beautiful. That shot was so good that skyrockets it to the basket” said Dairoku.

“No one can stop my shots when I’m getting faster” said Asumi.

“So, Mimi, did you remember who are other players of your team?” asked Hitomi.

“Yes, Hitomi” said Mimi as she showed a picture to the members of Ginga’s Pupils. “Take a look at this picture.”

Ginga’s Pupils: Kahele Hiraka, Asumi Hiramatsu, Rina Minagawa, Makoto Matsuda, Kazue Matsuoka, Kotori Katsura, Mika Mizushima, Hiroe Yamagiwa and Noriko Toyama

“Is that Chiyo Masuda?” asked Nanako.

“Yep. She’s already a first year middle school player for Miraku Middle School and she just played in Miraku Elementary School last year” said Asumi.

“Chiyo is closed to Rina Minagawa, who’s a sixth grader and also from Miraku Elementary School” said Mimi.

“I see. Both Rina and Chiyo have sported dark blue hairs just like Nozomi” said Masami.

“They were looked alike to each other and Rina had the same height as Nozomi” said Nanako.

“Of course, Masami and Nanako. There are many of our members who were looked alike to any of our friends in Ōta. Another reason of why we’re alike, it’s because their personalities can match with the girls of Ginga during his youth days” said Asumi.

“Ginga’s wife and Subaru’s mother Nayu was also a basketball player who played in Nashiba High School before. Like his wife and his son, Ginga believes that his passion personality can able to let his team to win games” said Mimi.

“Wow! I think he has many memories on his youth days before he become an archeologist” said Masanobu.

“He’s a fine basketball player when he enters his college years, but then, he never takes things easily. Then, when he played in the professionals, he got few roles to make before he retires to become an archaeologist” said Asumi.

“I see. Can you tell us who were the members of your team?” said Hitomi.

“Okay. This is Kahele Hiraka, a power forward playing for Kamata Elementary School. She was born in Hawaii to Japanese parents before she follows to me to enroll in Tokyo” said Mimi.

“This is Rina Minagawa from Miraku Elementary School. She is the sixth woman of the team before was assigned as the point guard. She likes to guard her opponents with her secretive skills. Of course, she is a friend of Chiyo Masuda” said Asumi.

“This is Makoto Matsuda. She came from Chidori Elementary School. One of her signature moves is that her passing can be invisible by choosing her teammates to catch the ball to them” said Mimi.

“This is Kazue Matsouka from Yaguchi Nishi Elementary School. She was able to adjust the playbook by using magic defense. Also, she likes to survey the court, in order to see what’s going on the court” said Asumi.

“This is Kotori Katsuro. She is a center from Rokugo Nishi Elementary School. Like Airi, she can shoot the ball with her own flexibility and she was able to control the ball against her opponents” said Mimi.

“This is Mika Mizushima. A well-known student from Tokudomechi Elementary School and a small forward for the team. She is able to copy the movements of her opponents without using magic. She determines to win the game and she leads her team in the Ōta League” said Asumi.

“This is Hiroe Yamagiwa. She came from Kitaurani Elementary School and a shooting guard. She likes to guard against her opponents and she has a strong IQ in shooting, hence, she got a cold streak in perimeter shots” said Mimi.

“This is Noriko Toyama. A student from Arai Fifth Elementary School and a point guard. Her attributes were high because of her great athleticism and she can able to block or steal anything from her opponents. She determines to be more valiant and didn’t have a hopeless year” said Asumi.

“And finally, this is one of my friends in Keishin, Kazuko Kakimoto. She is a shooting guard, but also a small forward with her strong strength and hustle. She is leading our team to the Ōta League Invitationals, but we were eliminated in the tournament” said Mimi.

“As we move on to our next level, we hoped that we will be leading the team to victory no matter who will be facing, and we’ll make sure that our domination runs in our team” said Asumi.

“Wow, they’re amazing players in the team. To be honest, is Kazuko will be joining your team in Keishin, Mimi?” said Hitomi.

“Well, I’ll say that she will be joining our team because she is one of Ginga’s Pupils. I have the rights to let her join our team once I’ll talk to her tomorrow” said Mimi.

“When the roster will be finalized for the Hasegawa Cup?” asked Nanako.

“By the time on Monday, we’ll finalize it” said Mimi.

“I hope that our team will battle against your team, Mimi” said Nanako.

“Okay. It’ll be fine to have two teams facing each other for the tournament. The draw for the tournament will be on Tuesday. I think Subaru will surprise us when we’re facing each other” said Mimi.

“Oh, we’ll see about that, Mimi” said Asumi.

“Anyway, Ginga not only create our training camp, but he also befriends many of the young players when he travelled in the country and in East Asia” said Mimi.

“Hey, Mimi. I think your father have befriend him, so that you will stay here for your studies, right?” said Asumi.

“Oh, yeah. Now, when you know about our group tomorrow, they’re going to represent Team Aurora for the Hasegawa Cup” said Mimi.

“Oh, I see. I believe that they’re wearing light colored shirts just like you’re wearing right now” said Kyōji.

“Then, I have to tell you, Kyōji. They like to wear light shirts during the summer and wear warmer shirts when they’re at home” said Masami.

“Mimi, did you wear your warmer shirts outside your home?” asked Masanobu.

“Yes. I have been wearing warmer shirts just like pale blue colored shirts when weekends and jerseys when training or at home with my friends” said Mimi.

“Probably, you’re going to wear new clothes soon” said Masanobu.

“Oh, yeah. Masanobu, thanks for reminding that. Once the new classes start soon, I will buy my new clothes for me to wear when it’s spring time” said Mimi.

“I wonder what would the members of Ginga’s Pupils will play for middle school” said Anzu.

“I believe that they’ll be going to Nashiba Middle School, but for me, I will wait for Asumi and my friends to enroll in Keishin” said Mimi.

“Yes, Mimi. That’s true. I will be planning to leave Shiromidai after graduation to enroll at Keishin, so that I will be playing with my friends of mine” said Asumi.

“Since we’re going to Tamagawa Middle School, Anzu, Dairoku and Nanako will enroll at Kirihara Middle School” said Hitomi.

“Well, good for you, everyone. I know you will be meeting new friends soon” said Mimi.

“Yeah!” said Hitomi, Masami, Kyōji, Masanobu, Anzu, Nanako and Dairoku.

“Wait a second, Mimi. I don’t know if it’s true that Subaru had a situation between the two schools where Tomoka and her friends will enroll soon” said Anzu.

“Uh, I don’t know. But I heard from Subaru that Ginga talks to the basketball director of Keishin Academy and things may not going to be good if the plot was revealed” said Mimi.

“Oh no. Maybe we should change plans if that happens” said Dairoku.

“Well, maybe. We’ll find out” said Mimi.

“I assumed that we’re gonna have to wait and see if the plot was true” said Asumi.

“Yeah. I have to carry some ideas if that happens. By the way, we’re hoping that Jun and others return soon” said Mimi.

“Where are they?” asked Hitomi.

“They are talking with Tomoka and Megumi about the playbook for the team” said Mimi.

“Oh, okay! When the playbook is here, we’ll going to win the Hasegawa Cup” said Hitomi.

“Great! That’s what your team needs. Oh, Jun and her team are here” said Mimi as Jun and the Angels return after they baked their sweets for tomorrow.

“Hi, everyone! It seems that you’re comfortable and cozy with your beds. Now, our group baked some sweets for our team. They’re ready to be served for tomorrow” said Jun.

“Yeah!” said Mimi, Asumi, Hitomi, Masami, Kyōji, Masanobu, Anzu, Nanako and Dairoku.

“Then, let’s wait for Tomoka and others and then, we’re going to sleep” said Jun.

“Okay!” said Mimi, Asumi, Hitomi, Masami, Kyōji, Masanobu, Anzu, Nanako and Dairoku.

UP NEXT: Chapter 25: "A Situation Between Two Schools" (Start of Volume 3)

 

[Sherwin Riga]

I’m back since my last appearance on December 8. I was not posting last Sunday because I have problems on my computer (it’s 2 ½ years old) and since I will be planning to buy my new computer soon. So, hopefully I will be given time to post new chapters of the Rooks, Knights and Bravehearts. I apologized for that. It’s even busier this week and I might be posting Chapter 26 either Friday or Sunday. But, it doesn’t matter, the thread is alive.

Anyway, the wait is over and the new chapter has been released and a new volume has been released tonight. Volume 3 is now on and it will be the new volume that will be covering for the month of December and January. In the first part, it will be the events before leading to the Hasegawa Cup, which will be released by December and in the second part, it will be the events during the Hasegawa Cup, which will be released by Christmastide and eventually January 2018. It will feature new characters from Kuroko’s Basketball/Kuroko no Basuke as well as from other schools in Ōta like Miraku, Den-en-chōfu, etc. With the new volume is released starting tonight, I hope that I will be drafting and finishing new chapters in Volume 3 as soon as possible. I will be posting longer chapters in this volume and as a result, I will be posting 3 of it.

Here is the summary of Volume 2:

“The Bravehearts have expanded their membership through their friends in Keishin and some of the best elementary school players. Subaru Hasegawa and his friends have organized the Hasegawa Cup, which allows everyone to compete since the Bravehearts have many members. The Family of Angels, Team Blue and Yellow, Dazzled Hearts, Orange and Fuchsia, Innocent Charm and Team Aurora were formed by the students of Keishin Academy, so that they will play for the tournament. The Nashiba High School has finally made Shin Mizusaki playing in college while they strengthen their basketball program through a new coaching staff led by Takehiro Furukawa. With the new groups were formed to represent the Bravehearts, they’ll expect to see how they will play basketball when they’ll show their techniques and skills.”

I hope that you’ll be all enjoyed to read this series and check for new chapters! And remember, this new chapter Chapter 25 is longer than the other chapters. Enjoy!:)

Miyu Aida calls Aya Miyakoōji while she is at home. When Aya said to Miyu that Tomoka and her teammates will be going to Kirihara Middle School, Miyu was shocked about this while Subaru said that he’s not responsible in trying to transfer to Kirihara. It was the fault of the basketball director of the Kirihara Middle School basketball team, who tried to convince Subaru Hasegawa to let Tomoka and her friends including Natsuhi to enroll at Kirihara Middle School. This would case Tomoka and her friends except for Team Takeda and Team Miyazaki to renounce their enrollment in Kirihara Middle School to prevent the basketball director of Keishin Academy basketball team from worrying about them. After this, the six teams were now formed to begin their training for the Hasegawa. These are the following teams who will be participating at the Hasegawa Cup qualifiers: Family of Angels, Team Blue and Yellow, Dazzled Hearts, Orange and Fuchsia, Innocent Charm and Team Aurora.

VOLUME 3: “A CHARMING SENSATION”
CHAPTER 25: “A SITUATION BETWEEN TWO SCHOOLS”

Part 1​

On the other rooms, the Dazzled Hearts welcomed their new members in the group. They are Masami and TsubaHii’s friends from sections 5-E & 5-F. Suehiro Nishida and Michiko Nobutoki were friends of Masami while Akari Asakura and Mitsugi Nagasawa were friends of TsubaHii. They are good basketball players and also, they were close friends to Mieko Matsuda and Ken Yamamoto.

“Welcome to our group, everyone!” said Masami.

“Thanks, Masami!” said the members of Team Nobutoki and Team Asakura.

“Now, it’s complete! We’re going to have two teams to group for the fifth graders for the qualifying match” said Tsubaki.

“So, Team Matsuda and Team Nobutoki will represent Dazzled Hearts-Team Fujii while Team Shimojō and Team Asakura will represent Dazzled Hearts-Team Takenaka” said Hiiragi.

“Then, Team Nagasaki and Team Maeyama will represent Dazzled Hearts-Team Nagatsuka” said Saki.

“That’s great! With the three going to compete for the qualifiers, we’ll make sure that we’re going to win the matches” said Akira.

“I wonder what would be our first games for the three” said Masako.

“Well, I can think if we will play through random drawing, we’re going to find out who will face us. But remember, we can’t face each other and instead, it will be against other teams who are on the same level” said Saki.

“We’re all done with the members and we hope that we’re going to qualify our spots for the Hasegawa Cup” said Tsubaki.

“Then, we should split our groups, in order to have their quarters for our group” said Hiiragi.

“The Dazzled Hearts-Team Nagatsuka will be with Dazzled Hearts-Team Fujii will stay in the third room while Dazzled Hearts-Team Takenaka will transfer to the fourth room. Akira will be staying in the third room and Masako will be assigned to the fourth room. Got it?” said Masami.

“Got it!” said the members of Dazzled Hearts.

“Good! Then, let’s split out!” said Saki.

“Okay!” said the members of Dazzled Hearts as the members of Dazzled Hearts-Tea Takenaka and Masako leave the third room to go to the fourth room. On the other hand, the members of Dazzled Hearts-Team Nagatsuka and Dazzled-Hearts-Team Fujii were packing their things while Mieko, Michiko and Suehiro assigned their members to sleep. Saki, Masami, Tsubaki and Hiiragi were happy to see their friends working together.

Aya went outside to call Miyu while Airi, Hinata, Kagetsu, Mimi, Kyō, Kurumi, Sakura, Kōme and Yuzuha were still playing cards.

“Hello” said Aya.

“Oh, Aya. Hi! How’s your stay in the resort hotel?” said Miyu.

“It was good and I’m finally able to be with Airi. Of course, I returned to training with the Suzuridani Girls’ Academy basketball team last Tuesday” said Aya.

“That’s great!” said Miyu. “So, what school your new friends will be going?”

“They will go to Kirihara Middle School for middle school next week” said Aya.

“Kirihara… Middle School? Wait a second, Aya. Is Tomoka and her friends are going to that school?” said Miyu.

“I don’t know, but yes” said Aya.

“You said that you won’t keep that secret” said Miyu.

“I didn’t tell it to you, but you said to them before that they’ll stay in Keishin Academy” said Aya.

“Hmm… I see. Rena and I will go to the Misawa Resort Hotel tomorrow. I’ll have to reverse the decision right away” said Miyu.

“Okay. Bye!” said Aya.

“Bye, Aya!” said Miyu as Aya and Miyu hang up their cellphones.

“Airi” said Aya.

“Yes, Aya?” asked Airi.

“I didn’t say that you’re going to Kirihara Middle School. Well, Miyu said to me that you and your friends will stay in Keishin Academy for middle school. Who told that to you?” said Aya.

“It wasn’t Subaru nor his friends saying that. But it was the basketball director from Kirihara Middle School named Hiromasa Nakayama” said Airi.

“I see. I have to tell you that Miyu and Rena will be here tomorrow” said Aya.

“Tomorrow?” asked Airi.

“Hey, everyone! I have an important announcement to make” said Subaru, who was joined by Aoi, Kazunari, Banri, Satsuki and Tae. Then, Subaru seems to be not happy about what happened.

“Subaru, who told you first that they’re going to Kirihara Middle School?” asked Aya.

“The basketball director from Kirihara Middle School” said Subaru.

“Hmm. We’re supposed to be staying in Keishin for middle school, but later when I thought that we’re going to that school, that director wants us in Kirihara. You let us enroll to Keishin for middle school earlier before our graduation, then a week later, we’re going to Kirihara Middle School for the enrollment” said Airi.

“Hmm. Something’s wrong about your decision, Subaru. You should tell the truth. Which school Tomoka and her friends will be going to for middle school?” said Kyō.

“Well, I supposed to say this, but the announcement is that the basketball directors of Keishin and Kirihara will meet my father tomorrow” said Subaru.

“What?!” said Airi, Hinata, Kagetsu, Mimi, Kyō, Kurumi, Sakura, Kōme, Yuzuha and Aya.

“Everyone, it’s true that Ginga went to the office of the basketball director yesterday and he said that to him. The latter was worried about you, Airi and Hinata. Maybe we can decide which school will be going to end up to” said Subaru.

“Yeah, of course, Subaru” said Airi and Hinata.

“So, the secret was revealed?” asked Maho, who arrived at the door along with Saki, Masami, Tsubaki, Hiiragi, Tomoka and Natsuhi.

“Yep. It’s true that the basketball director from Keishin Academy had known this idea. It’s my fault to say that to you, but I wanted to let you all enroll at Keishin Academy for middle school” said Subaru.

“Yeah, Subaru. But does it mean that–” said Tomoka.

“The deadline of the enrollment will be on Saturday?!” said Tomoka, Maho, Saki, Airi and Hinata.

“Yep. Then I have to tell the basketball directors that Tomoka, Maho, Saki, Airi, Hinata, Natsuhi, Akistsugu, Daisuki, Yoshinomi and Tsutomu will be going to stay in Keishin and not transferring to Kirihara Middle School” said Subaru.

“Okay, Subaru. But can Natushi and I will tell that to them, too?” said Tomoka.

“Okay, Tomoka” said Subaru.

“Maybe we should tell that to the others about this, everyone” said Airi.

“Yeah!” said Tomoka, Maho, Natushi, Saki, Masami, Tsubaki, Hiiragi, Hinata, Kagetsu, Mimi, Kyō, Kurumi, Sakura, Kōme, Yuzuha and Aya.

Later, the Bravehearts and members of Jun’s Angels have talked to the members of each group. They said that Subaru told the truth about the situation about the encounter between him and Hiromasa where the boys and girls of Keishin Academy basketball team will transfer to Kirihara Middle School.

“Hmm. It seems that the whole situation was true. I can’t believe that it was Mr. Nakamaya, who plotted this” said Jun.

“Yeah, Jun. Do you have ideas what to do about this?” said Tomoka.

“Yes, Tomoka. I will be going to select one or more teams that they will be going to Kirihara Middle School and that’s not going to name it until the directors are here” said Jun.

“Okay! But don’t tell it to anyone” said Tomoka.

“Okay, Tomoka” said Jun.

Tomoka, Maho, Natushi, Saki, Masami, Tsubaki, Hiiragi, Airi, Hinata, Kagetsu, Mimi, Kyō, Kurumi, Sakura, Kōme, Yuzuha and Aya went back to the first room where they talked to Subaru and his friends.

“By the way, while Ginga is going to bring guests right here, I want all of you to stay at the first basketball court for the meeting while my friends and I will have a training. The directors will be here in the afternoon. So, all leaders of each group including Orange and Fuchsia, Innocent Charm and Team Aurora will be going to have a meeting at the game room. Understand, everyone?” said Subaru.

“Yeah!” said Tomoka, Maho, Natushi, Saki, Masami, Tsubaki, Hiiragi, Airi, Hinata, Kagetsu, Mimi, Kyō, Kurumi, Sakura, Kōme, Yuzuha and Aya.

“Good. Then let’s find out if the decision will be finalized soon. Right, everyone?” said Subaru.

“Right!” said Tomoka, Maho, Natushi, Saki, Masami, Tsubaki, Hiiragi, Airi, Hinata, Kagetsu, Mimi, Kyō, Kurumi, Sakura, Kōme, Yuzuha and Aya.

The next day comes when the members of Orange and Fuchsia, Innocent Charm and Team Aurora arrives at the first basketball court. The meeting has started with Team Bravehearts were standing at the center of the court.

“Alright, everyone! I know what you are concerned about us, but I have to say that we’re going to stay in Keishin Academy and not going to Kirihara Middle School because I believe that it was Subaru’s first plan that we need to follow it” said Tomoka.

“That’s why we need to decide on which group will be going to Kirihara Middle School instead. I believe that members of Team Blue and Yellow say that they’ll not enroll at Kirihara Middle School after I said it to them” said Maho.

“I also said it to my friends that our group will not enroll at Kirihara Middle School” said Saki.

“My friends say that they won’t enroll in Kirihara as well and they’re planning to reaffirm their enrollment in Keishin” said Airi.

“My friends told me that they should’ve tell this secret, but they have plans to remain in Keishin for middle school” said Hinata.

“I also tell my teammates to stay in Keishin, so that the basketball director will not worry about us anymore” said Natsuhi.

“The Family of Angels have plans yet on deciding to divide our group by enrollment and it appears that Megumi wanted to stay in Keishin along with Nami while Kotoe will enroll to Keishin too” said Tomoka.

“So, who will be going to enroll at Kirihara Middle School?” asked Tomoka.

Originally, no one has ever raised its hand until members of Team Miyazaki and Team Takeda have raised the hands as they announced that they will enroll in Kirihara Middle School while Anzu Ogi, Nanako Funatani, Dairoku Kaji, Nami Tamayama, Kotoe Kano and Megumi Kadokawa won’t as they wanted to enroll at Keishin Academy instead.

“So, only 13 of them will enroll at Kirihara while the others will be in Keishin for middle school. I believe that if the thirteen of them will be in Kirihara, then I’ll have to say that to the directors later on” said Tomoka.

“What?! Michiko, are you going to Kirihara Middle School instead of going to Keishin Academy?” said Anzu.

“I don’t know, but I already enrolled at Kirihara Middle School earlier before them” said Michiko.

“So, do you think we can trust you about that?” asked Dairoku.

“Well, I supposed that was, but I don’t let Tomoka mad about this” said Michiko.

“Michiko, we raised our hands to enroll in Kirihara, but don’t think bad thoughts about it” said Akiko.

“Hey! Who said about “don’t think bad thoughts about it”, Akiko?” said Michiko.

“I think you’re crazier again just like last time, but Tomoka won’t forgive like this” said Akiko.

“Well, then, let’s battle out, Akiko!” said Michiko as she and Akiko growl to each other, but later Megumi and Anzu calm them down.

“Stop fighting, girls!” said Megumi and Anzu as they join the fight. Then, Michiko and Akiko slap Megumi and Anzu on their faces.

“Anzu! Megumi!” said Jun, Sora, Nozomi, Kurumi, Yuzuha and Kōme. The fight continues with Michiko and Akiko trading slaps until Tomoka walks to them.

“Michiko! Akiko! Stop fighting yourselves!” said Tomoka.

“Yeah! You have to just calm down!” said Rena.

“Ifyou are still tempered, you have to fight against us!” said Miyu as she and Rena appear.

“Miyu! Rena!” said Aya as she hugged on them as Miyu and Rena reunite with her. Then, Miyu and Rena walk to Michiko, Akiko, Megumi, Anzu and Tomoka.

“Alright, Michiko and Akiko. You have to calm down and stop fighting” said Miyu.

“Okay!” said Michiko and Akiko.

“Now, apologize to them” said Rena.

“I’m sorry, Megumi and Anzu” said Michiko and Rena. Megumi and Anzu nod to them.

“Good. Tomoka, they calm down” said Miyu.

“Okay. I think we’re going to continue this meeting” said Tomoka.

“Okay!” said the members of Family of Angels.

“As I was saying, with the 13 members of Family of Angels will be going to Kirihara Middle School, Megumi, you have to create your own group. Since it’s deadline, we’ll register the teams to enter the Hasegawa Cup. The qualifiers will be held on Monday while the main tournament proper will be held on Tuesday and Wednesday” said Tomoka.

“Go now, everyone! Submit your application forms to Natsuhi” said Maho as the team leaders from Family of Angels, Team Blue and Yellow, Dazzled Hearts, Orange and Fuchsia, Innocent Charm and Team Aurora have passed their application forms to Natsuhi.

“Okay! Good. Now, we’re going to continue the team meeting and then, we’ll begin our training after lunch. Is that okay, everyone?” said Tomoka.

“Yeah, we’re okay” said the members of Family of Angels, Team Blue and Yellow, Dazzled Hearts, Orange and Fuchsia, Innocent Charm and Team Aurora.

“Then, let’s continue the meeting!” said Tomoka.

Later, the meeting continues with the team leaders from each team standing in the middle of the court.

From left to right: Michiko Takeda, Megumi Kadokawa, Naoko Sugisaki, Risa Nagasaki, Asuna Hayashida, Rei Kanazawa, Erika Satō, Hanako Kotobuki, Aya Shimojō, Mieko Matsuda, Sakura Kasagi and Daisuke Kikuchi

“So, these are your team leaders for each team and I believe that they’ll become associates to the Bravehearts. Right now, I will add Megumi Kadokawa to become associates to us since she’ll be going to Keishin Academy for middle school” said Tomoka.

“Now, that we’re all here, we’re going to start the rules of the tournament” said Maho.

“There will be 6 minutes in 4 quarters which the game will be lasted for 45 minutes. So, for the qualifying games, there will be four courts will be used and also, each team will have their own roster to play against each other” said Saki.

“The draw for the qualifiers will be held on Sunday and that’s why all leaders must be present after the All-Star match between our team and their team” said Airi.

“Of course, the qualifying games will be held on Monday and the tournament will be held in two days on March 30 & 31” said Hinata.

“There will be some changes for the Keishin Academy basketball team, which means that one group will have their members part of the varsity team for the tournament” said Tomoka.

“So, anyone from the incoming sixth graders will be invited to our team and it will be announced on Monday” said Mimi.

“By then, you will not be going to take part of their team as they will be representing us for the Hasegawa Cup” said Tsubaki.

“As for the draw, we’re going to have three matches for the first round and then, the second round will also have four games. Since there will be two first year middle school teams for Family of Angels, that would be six teams in the group of first year middle school teams and there will be two games in the first round” said Hiiragi.

“For the sixth grade teams, there will be two teams for Dazzled Hearts and as a result, there will be five teams in total and one game will be needed for the first round. The rest of the games will be second round to be held in the afternoon” said Masami.

“At the end of the day, we’ll determine the four teams to qualify for the main tournament. In the main tournament, there will be 16 teams to participate in the boys’ and girls’ division. It will be a single-elimination tournament and whoever wins all the games will be declared winners of the Hasegawa Cup” said Kagetsu.

“The cup will be held in 4 days and we need two days of training because on Sunday, it will be an All-Star match between the Keishin Academy basketball and the team leaders of each group. I hope you will know about everything in the Hasegawa Cup. So, let’s start the training!” said Tomoka.

“Yeah!” said the members of Family of Angels, Team Blue and Yellow, Dazzled Hearts, Orange and Fuchsia, Innocent Charm and Team Aurora.

Part 2 will be on the next post.

 

[Sherwin Riga]

Chapter 25: "A Situation Between Two Schools"

Part 2​

Team Nagasaki: Ran Mikazuki, Risa Nagasaki, Yoshitsugu Nakagawa, Aoi Otsuji and Kana Yamada, Kōsuke Hasegawa, Akinori Mitobe and Yūki Ando
Team Maeyama: Atsuko Maeyama, Shizuko Ōhata, Tadamoto Inoue, Minami Kihara, Miho Ōsawa, Yoshiko Shindō, Akihiro Hata and Hideki Eda
Team Misawa: Kyoko Hiraki, Yurika Akagawa, Yōji Noshitani and Tarō Sakurai

“I can’t believe that you’re all present in our training. Well, Atsuko, since the rest of the members are doing great in the training” said Saki.

“Thanks, Saki” said Atsuko. “I believe that the strategy you made will work on our qualifying game on Monday.”

“Yeah. I’m glad that they know about the playbook and they already manage to use the Ice Age move. It means that the more we shoot, the more we have chances to win in the game” said Akira.

“Of course, Akira. Say, why are wondering about my signature move?” said Saki.

“Because I let your friends know how to survey the court and in order to prevent their opponents from blocking or stealing, they need greater defense. It’s an advantage to enter the zone” said Akira.

“Oh, of course. Risa, Ran, when you’re in the zone, make sure that your teammates are defending against them. In case that the ball is on your hands, you have to do step back or fake moves” said Saki.

“Okay, Saki!’ said Risa and Ran.

“Hideki, you’re the ace for the boys’ team and since you’re the center, you need to help Yoshitsugu to pass for assist. Got it?” said Akira.

“Yep. I know what the big man has to do when a guard can pass for assist” said Hideki.

“That’s the spirit! Okay, boys, since you are nine members, I believe that Hideki and Yoshitsugu will work together with the passes while Akinori, Kōsuke and Tadamoto will work on the court against the opponents” said Saki.

“While on the other hand, the reserves will have to work on the shooting. To make sure that the Ice Age is activated, make sure that the acceleration is higher against their opponents. Got it?” said Akira.

“Yeah” said Akihiro, Yūki, Yōji and Tarō.

“Girls, aside from Ran and Risa, I need Atsuko, Shizuko and Yurika on the starting five while the others will play in the bench. Okay, girls?” said Saki.

“Okay!” said the girls of Team Nagasaki-Maeyama.

“Since our strategy is set, we’ll make sure that we’re going to win. Is that right, everyone?” said Saki.

“Yeah!” said the members of Team Nagasaki-Maeyama.

“Then, let’s wait the others to finish their training” said Saki.

“Okay!” said the members of Team Nagasaki-Maeyama.

On the other hand, Team Matsuda-Nobutoki and Team Shimojō-Asakura have done their drill activities. Masami, Masako and Tsubaki talks to Mieko, Michiko, Aya and Akari.

Team Matsuda: Mieko Matsuda, Shiori Satō, Jirō Kitagawa, Katsuko Miyazawa, Tomoko Sasaki, Naomi Ishimoto and Nobunari Adachi
Team Nobutoki: Michiko Nobutoki, Suehiro Nishida, Jin Akagawa, Ichirō Hanazawa, Kaori Makihara, Nobuko Ariyoshi, Yūki Kamimachi and Nobunaga Takii
Team Shimojō: Ken Yamamoto, Aya Shimojō, Shinobu Higashimura, Sukehiro Gotō, Takahiro Sugihara, Keiko Hosada, Kanehira Satō, Ryūichi Sagawa and Ryūta Murozono
Team Asakura: Akari Asakura, Mitsugi Nagasawa, Ryōsuke Kanemoto, Asuka Aragaki, Michitarō Ibuki, Kimiko Furihata, Toshihisa Ōnishi and Minami Ishizuka

“The two groups will play for the qualifying round and that means, it’s a random draw where you will be placed into the assigned matches that the organizers will select the teams for the matches” said Masami.

“I will be fine if whoever faces our opponent, then we’ll make sure that this team has the same level” said Michiko Nobutoki.

“Well, it depends on the results of the draw. Of course, don’t pressure on the game, everyone. It wasn’t everyone’s fault if the teamwork broke out” said Tsubaki.

“Going on the schedule, the morning games will be the first round and the afternoon games will be the second round. I wonder when the organizers will put the two teams into the draw, they will decide on what to do with the teams to face” said Masako.

“I believe that our strength is very equal like the other teams there. Team Aurora is a strong team in our batch because their ace is on Mimi’s level and has learned the signature moves of Tomoka and Mimi all by herself” said Aya Shimojō.

“That’s right, Aya. So, in order to keep the opponents down, our shooting skills and guarding skills needs improvement, everyone” said Masami.

“Yeah” said the members of Team Matsuda-Nobutoki and Team Shimojō-Asakura.

“The more you defend and shoot for your team, the better you give their opponents a beating” said Tsubaki.

“I compared the two teams that in order to balance the roster for the qualifying games, I need Mieko, Nobunari, Aya and Ryōsuke will be the aces for the girls’ and boys’ teams respectively. Then, the others will be played depends on the role they choose, but I found it better” said Masami.

“So, Masami, can you show the line-ups?” asked Mieko.

“Sure, Mieko” said Masami as Mieko reads the line-ups that were made by Masami, Tsubaki and Masako. “Well, I think I found interesting that two players will be guards to create the pick and roll actions while the players from the frontcourt will be watching the two players and then, when the opponents try to stop you, you have to run in before you shoot.”

“Okay, Masami. That’s a good tip for us to win” said Mieko.

“Of course!” said Masami.

“Aya and Ryōsuke, make sure that when you play against the other teams, the acceleration and hand check will be the lookouts. In order to win the game, we must find the opening to allow the players to shoot. Is that okay to you, Aya and Ryōsuke?” said Tsubaki.

“Yeah!” said Aya and Ryōsuke.

“Great! Now, we have to prepare for the qualifying games, everyone!” said Mieko.

“Yeah!” said Masami, Hiiragi and the members of Team Matsuda-Nobutoki and Team Shimojō-Asakura.

The second group was Team Blue and Yellow. Maho, Natsuhi and Hiiragi train the members of Team Blue and Yellow by mastering the offensive and defensive skills. Nagamasa Miwa recently joins Team Sugisaki as part of Team Blue and Yellow boys’ team.

Team Blue and Yellow: Composed of three teams
Team Sugisaki: Naoko Sugisaki, Kyōsuke Fumizaki, Asumi Ishida, Haruyo Kusaka, Tarō Matsuba, Saori Minagawa, Kishō Ogata, Nagamasa Miwa, Hiroshi Yamanaka and Miori Misawa
Team Kikuchi: Daisuke Kikuchi, Tsutomu Fukada, Yoshinori Toshima, Akitsugu Wakui, Hiroto Makara, Ryūichi Kitajō and Hideo Akiyama
Team Minato: Kanae Hashimoto, Kazumi Tanaka and Yukari Uchida

“In preparing for the Hasegawa Cup, I decided to assign Naoko and Daisuke playing as the aces of the team. Since Daisuke is playing for the varsity team like Natsuhi, we’ll make sure that we’re going to have our advantage to win the tournament” said Maho.

“Yeah, Daisuke will make sure that his teammates will be following his orders” said Natsuhi.

“Miori and I were doing the line-ups for the girls’ team. We have Naoko, Asumi, Hiroshi, Saori and Kanae on the starting five while Haruyo will be the sixth woman. The rest will be playing as bench members” said Hiiragi.

“For the boys, Nagamasa, Hiroto, Kyōsuke, Tarō, Ryūichi and Hideo will be benched while Kishō will be the small forward like Natushi” said Miori.

“By the way, Daisuke, we should boost our stamina, in order to shoot as many as we can” said Naoko.

“Yeah. When the ball is on our team, then we can do at any cost. Especially, our Fireworks move will run through the paint and the low post area” said Daisuke.

“Because of the good line-up that we have, we’re considered as contenders to beat. However, when battling against different schools, we have to work together on the offense and the defense. I will make sure that we will receive many points once our players are healthy and fit to play” said Maho.

“Speaking of being healthy and fit to play, maybe we should have our team to eat fruits for dinner. After all, we’ll have different sets of dinner later tonight” said Natushi.

“Well, of course, Natsuhi. I will be glad that we’re going to eat what was recommended by our workers at the restaurant” said Maho.

“Probably the smoothies are the best dessert in our restaurant with different fruits available” said Miori.

“Oh, I believe it was. Alright, everyone! I think we’re done in the training and we should watch the other groups or play a warm-up match. It depends on you if you want to observe or play” said Maho.

“Yeah!” said the members of Team Blue and Yellow as they went to back to training or watch the performance of the other groups.

“I know you can out on you, Team Blue and Yellow!” said Maho.

“Just prepare for the games, guys!” said Natushi.

The third group was Orange and Fuchsia. It was finally divided into two groups: Team Kashii and Team Fujisaki. Team Fujisaki is a team led by Rina Fujisaki, a friend of Kurumi Nukui. Some of the members came from Jun’s Associates, who were close to Jun Gotō and the Angels. MinakoMachida teaches the boys and girls by doing drill exercises. Later, she tells the team about the plans for the Hasegawa Cup as they will be joining with Team Ogura.

Team Fujisaki: Rina Fujisaki, Rei Rakuyama, Minami Ōshima, Sakura Nobumoto, Chinami Nishida, Ryōsei Sakurai, Nobuo Momijidani, Masahiro Kurokawa, Mareo Koga and Kazurō Ikeda
Staff: Minako Machida and Kozue Hidaka

“As expected, we will be joining with Team Ogura for the fifth grade team of Orange and Fuchsia. I think Minami Ogura will be arranging the roster for our team and once we’re in the qualifiers, we will win the match” said Minako.

“Since the ten of you are doing a great job in mastering the skills, I will give you this” said Kozue as she gives the armbands to the members of Team Fujisaki.

“It’s nice and you can use it during the practice and in the game” said Minako.

“Thanks, Kozue!” said the members of Team Fujisaki.

“Let’s check out the starting positions: Ryōsei is a power forward, Nobuo is a center, Masahiro is a shooting guard, Mareo is a point guard and Kazurō is a small forward” said Kozue.

“I guess that it was a perfect group for the team, boys! So, all we have to do is to do exercise and use the gym to make everyone fit. Okay, boys?” said Minako.

“Yes, ma’am!” said Ryōsei, Nobuo, Masahiro, Mareo and Kazurō.

“On the other hand, the girls must exercise too because when you are playing, make sure that the flexibility and defensive stops are higher than your opponents” said Minako.

“I wonder what would be the playbook for our team when entering the game as bench players” said Rina.

“Well, Rina, Minami and Sakura, you will have to follow what the players doing and Rei and Chinami, the shooting range should be perfect while shooting and when you’re on the defensive zone, just tip in to steal and do what Airi did in the game” said Minako.

“Okay!” said Rina, Rei, Minami, Sakura and Chinami.

“Then, once the team is ahead, we’ll make sure that everyone must not lose his or her stamina. When you lose your stamina, you may end up exhausted and being exhausted means you may not shoot or guard properly. Is that clear?” said Kozue.

“Yes, ma’am!” said the members of Team Fujisaki.

“Good. Just one more thing, everyone! It is better to eat healthy foods at dinner because eating any other food that is not healthy is good for your health. Airi was able to eat fruits and vegetables and once eat ice cream” said Kozue.

“Okay, ma’am!” said the members of Team Fujisaki.

“The resort hotel has many recommendations at the restaurant where you can eat healthy foods in order to energize yourself for the game” said Kozue.

“Okay, ma’am” said the members of Team Fujisaki.

“Great! Then, I think we’re going to talk to Airi and the members of Team Kashii to talk about the line-ups” said Rina.

“Sure!” said the members of Team Fujisaki.

They went to the other side of the court as Team Kashii finished their training. Airi and Itsuko were talking to the members about the Hasegawa Cup.

Team Hayashida: Asuna Hayashida, Shizuka Ōta, Mitsuki Kaneshiro, Ai Tsukada, Erika Iguchi, Kazuyo Miyazawa, Miki Hishida, Yuriko Akinaga, Chiyo Goto and Yōko Yamazaki
Team Aoyagi: Kenshō Aoyagi, Ichirō Kanehira, Shōsuke Koyama, Kojiro Miwa, Hirokazu Chijimatsu, Junpei Hayano, Kentarō Nakamatsu, Tsunehisa Nakayama, Naruhisa Ishikawa and Kōichirō Akaike
Team Ogura: Minami Ogura, Tomoko Aoyama, Miyako Hisamura, Sakura Matsuoka, Maho Okamura, Kazue Tamaki, Chōei Utsumi, Shigehisa Deguchi, Tatsuya Aso, Hisahito Hishida, Eijirō Fukuda and Ryōsei Wakui
Staff: Itsuko Kanehira and Kaori Kashii

“Itsuko, is the line-ups are ready?” asked Asuna.

“Yep. Oh, Team Fujisaki. What you take it so long? Did you trained well?” said Itsuko.

“Yeah” said the members of Team Fujisaki.

“Since they’re here, you’re going to find out who will be in the starting five” said Airi.

“Okay!” said the members of Team Kashii and Team Ogura-Fujisaki.

“For the under-13 girls’ team, we have Asuna (center), Shizuka (small forward), Mitsuki (shooting guard), Yōko (power forward) and Erika (point guard). The bench members who will play on the second quarter if the five were exhausted were: Ai, Kazuyo, Miki, Yuriko and Chiyo” said Itsuko.

“For the under-13 boys’ team, we have Kenshō (power forward), Ichirō (center), Kentarō (point guard), Kōichirō (shooting guard) and Naruhisa (small forward). The bench players are Shōsuke, Kojiro, Hirokazu, Tsunehisa, Naruhisa and Junpei” said Kaori.

“For the under-12 girls’ team, we have Minami (center), Tomoko (small forward), Miyako (power forward), Sakura (shooting guard) and Maho (shooting guard). Kazue, Rina, Rei, Minami, Sakura and Chinami will be playing for the bench” said Airi.

“And finally, for the under-12 boys’ team, we have Chōei (small forward), Shigehisa (power forward), Tatsuya (center), Hisahito (point guard) and Eijirō (shooting guard). Ryōsei Wakui, Ryōsei Sakurai, Nobuo, Masahiro, Mareo and Kazurō will be the players to be benched in the game” said Minako.

“And with that line-up, we’ll have many strategies to be made by me, Minako, Itsuko and Kaori” said Kozue.

“Also, I gave the aces the lists of foods that are recommended by the restaurant to eat foods before playing basketball. That way, you’re all healthy and prepared for the game” said Airi.

“They will be buying those for you to eat the foods that are nutritious and good for the health” said Kaori.

“Finally, make sure to exercise everyday” said Minako.

“We need one more training before on Sunday because Team Hayashida will be battling against the Suzuridani Girls’ Academy, so get ready for the match, girls!” said Itsuko.

“Yes, coach!” said the members of Team Hayashida.

“Well, I’m glad that you know the line-ups and I believe that we will wait for the others to finish the training” said Airi.

“Okay!” said the members of Orange and Fuchsia.

The fourth group was Innocent Charm. Team Kanazawa had expanded the group as more members join the group while a new group named Team Fukutomi which is composed of many boys and fewer girls. Hinata, Kumi and Seijirō were coaching the team and Rei and Kiyoshi are the aces of the team. The members of Team Kanazawa and Team Fukutomi were exhausted from the training while Sora Fukutomi mastered her Innocent Charm move. She always passes the ball to Ai and Kira while helping Rei to shoot.

Team Kanazawa: Rei Kanazawa, Kiyoshi Toshima, Ryōta Nakamura, Kazuya Uehara, Yoshitsugu Kimura, Kana Uchida, Ai Ohara, Kira Kakimoto, Misaki Nagaoka, Akari Tanigawa, Mie Furutani and Yumi Nakamura
Team Fukutomi: Sora Fukutomi, Koji Nakagaichi, Akira Shimojō, Wataru Nakai, Sakura Uehara, Daiki Mitsugi, Ryōta Inoue, Machiko Kogure and Seiichi Abe
Staff: Kumi Takamura and Seijirō Hakamada

“Well done, Sora. You looked better than before in your passing” said Hinata.

“Thanks, Hinata. I believe that it was my first time to be trained by you since our section got improvements while playing. Our members did well in passing and shooting, but the defending skills are amazed before my eyes” said Sora.

“I’m definitely going to help you with the fast break drill using the Innocent Charm move” said Hinata.

“Sure, Hinata!” said Sora as Sora, Ai, Kira, Rei and Misaki practice their fast break skills.

“Boys, since Kiyoshi is the ace, I need volunteers to back him up. I need someone to practice the guarding and defending skills” said Seijirō.

Ryōta steps up as he will defend Kiyoshi for practice. “Okay, Ryōta. Try to make sure that you’re defending someone and in order to succeed your guarding skills. You must concentrate. Okay?” said Seijirō.

“Okay!” said Ryōta.

“Now, go!” said Seijirō. When Ryōta begin to guard Kiyoshi, he decided to move to the left and then, vice versa. After that, when Kiyoshi is about to shoot, Ryōta’s fingers touches the ball as Kiyoshi’s shot was missed.

“Great job, Ryōta! Now, you can stop them by putting your fingers on the ball to prevent the ball to be driven to the basket” said Seijirō.

“Thanks, Seiji” said Ryōta.

Then, Sora and Rei was able to learn the fast break skill, then Sora was able to use the Innocent Charm move when she passes the ball to Rei, allowing the latter to shoot. Hinata impressed Sora’s move.

“I’m glad that you learned that move when the fast break is active. I hope that you have learned about the secret to the move Innocent Charm. Right, girls?” said Hinata.

“Yeah!” said Sora, Rei, Ai, Kira and Misaki.

“Great! So, now, I will let you go first for the water break” said Hinata.

“Yeah!” said the girls of Team Kanazawa and Team Fukutomi.

“Akari, Mie and Yumi, make sure that when you’re back, I have a plan that you three will play for the qualifying games” said Kumi.

“Okay!” said Akari, Mie and Yumi.

On the other hand, Kagetsu, Yuichi, Suzuko and Kuni let the members of Team Satō and Team Hatano train on their court. After that, Naoki and Erika went to talk with their groupmates.

Team Satō: Erika Satō, Miho Hikasa, Chiwa Furukawa, Aoi Kayano, Yuki Hashimoto, Natsume Ishikawa, Kazumi Togashi and Rina Ōtsuka
Team Hatano: Naoki Hatano, Shun Hinouchi, Ryōhei Suzuki, Kōji Yamada, Satoshi Miwa, Daisuke Ōhata, Kishō Ono, Michiya Toriumi, Motoichi Miyaji, Akira Miyaji and Shinjō Uchida
Others: Akira Ōkawa, Ryō Nagashima, Asami Miyazaki and Aya Tachibana
Staff: Yuichi Uchida, Suzuko Hakamada and Kuni Hakamada

“We’re all completed, boys! I believe that the nine of you will play for our team while we’re representing as members of Keishin Academy boys’ basketball club. I observed all of you to see your potentials and by the way, you all looked ready to be competitive. Probably, I will pick Daisuke to be the ace while Satoshi, Kishō and the twins Motoichi and Akira to be in the starting line-up while Michiya is the sixth man” said Naoki.

“I liked your line-up you’re choosing, Naoki. Also, Motoichi and Akira must work together like Tsubaki and Hiiragi. Of course, I will be thinking if Michiya will swap places with Motoichi when the latter is tired” said Yuichi.

“Sure, Yuichi. I will make sure that the twins will have to work out with Michiya” said Naoki.

“Assumed the fact we’re facing against a big team from the group, we should try to keep an eye on the players. I’ll be instructing you to do this when it’s on, okay?” said Yuichi.

“Okay!” said Daisuke, Satoshi, Kishō, Michiya, Motoichi, Akira Miyaji, Shinjō, Akira Ōkawa and Ryō.

“Now, girls, I wanted to make sure to look at the players on the court. Then, if the opponents are trying to get past on our players, make sure that you stop them for a double team. For offensive, try to do pick and roll action” said Erika.

“Okay!” said the girls of Team Satō, Asami and Aya.

“When the opponents’ stamina is higher than you, try to less their stamina by guarding it, but not close to the restricted area” said Kuni.

“Of course, you don’t get a turnover if you are outside the key and that’s the time you can check the opponents if they’re going to shoot. I will be happy if you can able to block it and you can get the ball in no time” said Kagetsu.

“Okay!” said the girls of Team Satō, Asami and Aya.

“In my playbook, Erika, Miho, Chiwa, Aya and Kazumi will be playing their own skills by matching your opponents you need to pair with. Like what Kagetsu said, if the shot was missed, get it and then, if the shot was made, just get points back” said Suzuko.

“Okay!” said the girls of Team Satō, Asami and Aya.

“The line-up will be Erika as the small forward, Miho as the center, Chiwa as the power forward, Asami as the shooting guard and Aya as the point guard” said Kagetsu.

“I will let Yuki to be the sixth woman where she can get help from her teammates or assist them” said Erika.

“Of course, the other members will be role players on the bench. The stamina is the most important thing that we need to work on the games” said Suzuko.

“If the stamina is low, just stop and take a break. If the stamina is high, don’t pressure it” said Kuni.

“Now, that you’re all clear, maybe we can walk out of the court and let’s wait for our members from Hinata’s team” said Kagetsu.

“Yeah!” said the members of Team Satō, Asami and Aya.

The fifth group was Team Aurora. Mimi and Asumi were the coaches for the team as Hanako Kotobuki and her groupmates have to practice their skills. Mizuki Koyama helped Kazuko Kakimoto, sister of Kira, to shoot the ball. Mizuki Koyama is one of Ginga’s Pupils and she came from section 5-E. She is a carefree and determined girl in the class like Mimi. After the training, the members of Team Aurora have a meeting with Mimi and Asumi.

Part 3 will be on the next post.

 

[Sherwin Riga]

Chapter 25: "A Situation Between Two Schools"

Part 3​

Team Aurora: Composed of three groups
Team Katobuki: Hanako Kotobuki, Kazuko Kakimoto, Mizuki Koyama, Izumi Masuda, Kurumi Sato, Yoko Shimizu, Jun Akiyama, Eriko Takao, Yurika Hashida and Sakiko Hasegawa
Team Morizawa: Junichi Morizawa, Sōichi Aoyama, Jūbei Koga, Kōsuke Minagawa, Issei Uehara, Mantarō Hishikawa, Masanobu Yamada, Ryōta Tsujimoto, Shinobu Hatano and Moritaka Ueda
Ginga’s Pupils: Kahele Hiraka, Asumi Hiramatsu, Rina Minagawa, Makoto Matsuda, Kazue Matsuoka, Kotori Katsura, Mika Mizushima, Hiroe Yamagiwa and Noriko Toyama

“As you can see, my friends will be here tomorrow and then, we’re going to head things further with the tournament” said Asumi.

“For this event, this new team will represent our associates to the Innocent Charm and us. My fanbase is composed of my friends in our section and your sections, of course” said Mimi.

“I observed that the other players are close to Hinata and friends, but we also know that since we have a member of Ginga’s Pupils on our side, we’re going to win the qualifying match for sure” said Hanako.

“That’s right, Hanako. It’s our own team and hopefully, we will be ready to face off against other teams who have recently established. In case if Yuichi and Mao will have some back-up players for the varsity team” said Kazuko.

“I have to say that maybe Yuichi and Mao will add some members for the varsity team, depends on the results of the qualifying games. Kagetsu and I will handle this” said Mimi.

“So, I hope you will find good in the roster after you observed both Innocent Charm and Team Aurora” said Hanako.

“Yes, it is. I don’t know if both teams will have their players joining the varsity team for back-up, but since it’s the Hasegawa Cup, we’re going to deal with this when the qualifying games are done” said Mimi.

“I hope that the other varsity teams will have back-up players because according to the rules of the team, each team must have at least 10 players, but not more than 12 players. For teams created by community, the minimum is 8 and the maximum is 12” said Asumi.

“I get it, Asumi. So, I will be planning this before the tournament” said Mimi.

“So, are you going to pick any of our members for the varsity team because Himeko and others have their own team?” asked Izumi.

“Yep. So, that’s why we need back-up players and I believe that Mizuki will be most likely part of our team because she’s stronger than the other members of Ginga’s Pupils, but not on the same level as the both of us” said Mimi.

“Well, then, we should take a water break for a while before we go back to training” said Asumi.

“Okay!” said the members of Team Aurora.

And finally, the sixth group was Family of Angels. Jun, Tomoka, Kurumi and Kyō were seeing the members of Family of Angels, who were enjoyed their training as they try to improve their skills and to make sure that they’re going to win the games, they must learn everything from Kurumi’s playbook. The song 「羽ばたきのバースデイ」 by Baby’s breath was used as a background song for the scene.

Family of Angels: Composed of five teams
Team Gotō: Anzu Ogi, Nanako Funatani, Dairoku Kaji, Shigeru Hirashita, Hitomi Takao, Masami Nojima, Kyōji Nogami and Masanobu Uehara
Jun’s Angels: Jun Gotō, Nozomi Momijidani, Sora Kaneshiro, KyōNukui, Sakura Toriumi, Kurumi Nukui, KōmeOgi and Yuzuha Aigae
Team Takeda: Michiko Takeda, Ayane Shirakawa, Haruko Kōyama, Kozue Hanabusa and Aika Sagawa
Team Miyazaki: Akiko Miyazaki, Natsuki Sakura, Satsuki Ōkuma, Katsuei Kōno, Asami Nakagawa, Miki Akizuki, Kōichi Aoyama, Mito Azaki and Kiyoto Miyaji
Team Kadokawa: Megumi Kadokawa, Nami Tamayama, Kotoe Kano, Fujiko Sasaki Ryōta Mikawa and Shōzō Takamatsu

“The three teams are completed and now, we need one more complete group that is Team Kadokawa” said Jun.

“Of course, Jun. All we have to do is to call her friends to come to her team, in order to complete the group” said Tomoka.

“Tomoka, that was a great idea! Did you call them, Megumi?” said Kurumi.

“Yeah. I said to them that they’ll come tomorrow for them to join our team and then, they said that they will be here along with their friends” said Megumi.

“Then, when they’re here, it’s all complete for Family of Angels” said Nozomi.

“Everything is fine for now until we have new members from Team Kadokawa” said Sora.

“If Team Kadokawa expands, we will have two teams to represent Family of Angels” said Kōme.

“Of course, Kōme! We need more boys and girls in our team, in order to have the second team. However, we will not face each other in the qualifying games” said Kurumi.

“I think you’re right, Kurumi. When we have two teams to represent Family of Angels, then our real competition will be penetrating our odds to win the Hasegawa Cup” said Jun.

“As a result, we will have two teams to represent Family of Angels” said Kyō.

“Team Gotō and Team Kadokawa will be teaming up for Family of Angels-Team Angels while Team Takeda and Team Miyazaki will be representing Family of Angels-Team Kirihara” said Sakura.

“It will be a team of smile and peace to unify the group of students from Keishin and Shiromidai” said Sora.

“We’ll make sure that once the competition is about to begin, we’ll going to win the matches for sure” said Nozomi.

“Yeah!” said the members of Family of Angels.

“Michiko, why Ryōta and Shōzō join Team Kadokawa, even though they supposed to be part of our team?” asked Akiko.

“It is because Megumi needs some boys to join her team and that’s why Ryōta and Shōzō joining Team Kadokawa through an agreement between Megumi and the two of us” said Michiko.

“Oh, yeah. Since we have many boys, then we should share the boys with Team Kadokawa” said Akiko.

“Of course, Akiko. Just call them later” said Michiko.

“Okay, Michiko!” said Akiko.

“Finally, we will have the leaders meeting at five in the afternoon at the Recreational Center and that way, we will finally be ready to have our Bravehearts to play for willpower and opportunity” said Tomoka.

“Don’t forget to smile when you’re happy and let’s make a peaceful team” said Nozomi.

“Yeah. My sister said that you’re very active in participating Church activities in your school” said Anzu.

“Yep. I always hanging out with Jun and Sora in our community” said Nozomi.

“Oh, I get it. I believe that your school accepts Catholic students and I believe that you, Sora and Jun were Catholic students. Well, is your school connected to your community, right?” Yuzuha.

“Yes, of course, Yuzuha! I believe that when we’re singing for faith, hope and love, everyone wants to smile on us” said Nozomi.

“That’s why we call our band Baby’s breath/Lien de Famille” said Sora.

“Then, Kurumi, Kōme and Yuzuha join our band and as a result, we’re creating the new band known as Jun’s Angels” said Jun.

“That’s so cool, Jun!” said Michiko, Akiko, Megumi and Nami.

“Thanks, everyone! I hope you keep smiling on us every time” said Jun.

“Okay!” said Michiko, Akiko, Megumi and Nami.

“Tomoka, we should go to the fitness gym of the Recreational Center, so that we’re all fit” said Kurumi.

“Okay! Everyone, we should go to the fitness gym and then, let’s call the leaders of each team to begin the team meeting later afternoon” said Tomoka.

“Okay!” said the members of Family of Angels. With the six teams are finally present, they are ready to compete for the Hasegawa Cup. It looks like the real competition is about to penetrate with their aces and players are worked out and mastered their techniques and moves. While Tomoka and her friends are helping the members of the six teams to prepare for the Hasegawa Cup, Subaru and his friends are in the basketball court of the Recreational Center at the Misawa Resort Hotel to prepare for the upcoming high school season.

UP NEXT: Chapter 26: "More than Just Nashiba"

 

[Sherwin Riga]

Hey, everyone! I know that you're interested in one of the basketball anime series Kuroko no Basuke/Kuroko's Basketball and it's finally here! I apologized because it's so busy and I have to post new chapters on the other day. So, don't worry, the Hasegawa Cup arc will be released by January and I hope you will enjoy reading the series! So, stay tuned for more updates!:D

The wait is over… as the Rooks, Knights and Bravehearts series is now being invaded by Kuroko no Basuke/Kuroko's Basketball! This post will be the first appearance of Tetsuya Kuroko and his friends from Seirin, Shūtoku and Tōō. I hope you will enjoy this new chapter. So, enjoy reading Chapter 26!:)

The boys’ basketball team of Nashiba High School had begun its training earlier in the morning with their new manager Takehiro Furukawa. It was the first time where the members of Nashiba High School boys’ basketball team have their training since its program was lifted from a one-year suspension. They were met by not just Ginga Hasegawa, but his friends from Seirin, Shūtoku and Tōō including Tetsuya Kuroko. Also, you will see how Ginga’s journey to East Asia happen and also, how did he watched high school basketball games during his break. The future of the Nashiba High School boys’ basketball team is in the hands of their new team captain Subaru Hasegawa and his teammates this coming summer.

VOLUME 3: “A CHARMING SENSATION”
CHAPTER 26: “MORE THAN JUST NASHIBA”​

Subaru and his friends are on training at the Recreational Center of the Misawa Resort Hotel. The members of Nashiba High School basketball team are also present as well as the sported their light uniforms. It is 11:54 and Ginga is not there because he said to Subaru and his friends that he has a surprise on them.

“Well, I guess that when we’re playing without the suspension, we would have make it to the top” said Subaru.

“Yeah. I believe that the Nashiba High School basketball team is back in business since the suspension was lifted” said Banri.

“Of course, the girls are doing well in the Interhigh with Aoi and her friends while the boys have other roles to do outside the school when the suspension is in effect. I believe that we should start working together under the new system” said Kazunari.

“Yeah, Kazunari. I believe that we are all here now” said Subaru.

“Sometimes when playing against some tough teams like Itoda, it would a lot of training to work” said Takumi Ōhata.

“There is always a team when it comes to setting the goals in” said Naomori Abe.

“I feel great to be here, but again, I will be fine if there is a group of friends Subaru talks about” said Ryōta Sugihara.

“I will be glad that playing with the great talents would make sure that we’re going to dominate the competition” said Seiji Kōno.

“Aside from being a member of a strong team, we wanted to make sure that our pride and spirit of Nashiba shine upon us” said Kenshō Odawara.

“Our fiery eyes have seen everyone in the community of Nashiba since its re-instatement and destiny awaits to fulfill our promises” said Mitsuhiro Nagakura.

“One player must accept the goals he wants and when he faces the challenge he gets, he must accomplish by one man” said Sadatoshi Kiuchi.

“I believe that Subaru must lead us to bring hopes and dreams in Nashiba where everyone’s blessings make big changes” said Itaru Tsuchiya, former sixth man of the Nashiba High School before the suspension and the first senpai to be recruited by Kazunari.

“Reincarnation is the way people want to reform and in order to succeed, they have to start again to train hard until they know everything” said Daisuke Kojima, the former team captain of section 2-3 and the other senpai of the team.

“That’s what we call us the new Nashiba High School Boys’ Basketball Team!” said Subaru and the other members of the Nashiba High School Boys’ Basketball Team.

“I can’t believe that we’re all here, everyone!” said Takehiro Furukawa, who would arrive along with his father Takeshi.

“Oh, Takehiro, you’re here early” said Kazunari.

“Yeah. In case you know, this will be our first training session for our new team. That means that we have to work together in order to bring back the glory of the Nashiba High School” said Takehiro.

“I almost forgot that Shin proposes you a match between his team and your team, Subaru” said Kazunari.

“I see. I believe that we’re going to battle against Shin’s own team. I mean my classmates aren’t here because they’re on vacation, but I need to make sure that they’re here on Sunday” said Subaru.

“Well, I supposed that we should change the match from Subaru’s team vs. Shin’s team to Nashiba vs. Shin’s team” said Takehiro.

“Oh, really?” asked the members of the Nashiba High School boys’ basketball team.

“Yeah, of course. I believe that playing against Shin’s team will prove us further to gain our potential to become contenders” said Takehiro.

“Yeah, instead of my classmates, our team will step up to play against Shin’s team that he had befriend during his high school days” said Subaru.

“So, when it’s going to happen?” asked Banri.

“Well, since the Hasegawa Cup is on Tuesday and Wednesday, we will settle it on Sunday” said Takehiro.

“Okay!” said Subaru, Banri and Kazunari.

“Uh, manager, there are many matches to be held at the Recreational Center. So, can we have the match after them?” said Naomori.

“Oh, okay. Now, everyone, we will have a match on Sunday and that’s my decision. We need more players to join the team as long as that we have two senpais in our team” said Takehiro.

“Subaru is our team captain and Kazunari is our vice captain. And so, we should unite together against toughest teams in Tokyo. Maybe the Ōta League will be our starting point to participate before summer comes” said Ryōta.

“That’s right! Since I was one of the board of directors of the Ōta League Committee, I have the schedule and we should be ready to play against community teams and then, in Tokyo” said Takehiro.

“I never thought that when we’re playing for the team that was re-instated, we need to go back from the scratch” said Sadatoshi.

“Well, it appears that we’re going to have our lunch” said Takeshi.

“Yeah, maybe we can eat the restaurant” said Subaru.

“Okay!” said the members of the Nashiba High School boys’ basketball team.

The members of the Nashiba High School boys’ basketball team have their lunch at the restaurant known as the Golden Sun Restaurant. It was named as the Misawa family grew together in developing the resort hotel.

“That’s delicious! This was the favorite dish I ever had!” said Naomori.

“Well, the food in this restaurant was different from the other restaurants at the Suzuran Shopping Street. I believe that people eating in this restaurant tastes good and even the main dish. It was classic!” said Takehiro while eating the ramen noodles.

“By the way, I wonder what is your plan, Subaru” said Ryōta.

“My plan is to recreate basketball in Nishina where I created the group known as the Bravehearts. Of course, our group now expands their membership and since we created the Hasegawa Cup, the members of the Bravehearts will play against some of the tougher teams in Ōta” said Subaru.

“I believe that we’re creating this tournament because of your efforts as the head coach of the Keishin Academy girls’ basketball team. People in Nashiba say that you are heroic at the time your team winning the ForM Cup. After you decided to coach with them while trying to make stronger, you called us along with the girls’ team, in order to create the tournament for the community of Nishina” said Takehiro.

“Oh, I get it. Since you’re also organizing this, in order to allow the youngsters in Nishina and the neighbors to play for the Ōta League” said Subaru.

“Yep. That’s why the Nishina District is ready to take action in basketball starting next week” said Kazunari.

“The classes will begin on April 1 and we will continue training on the second week of April” said Seiji.

“Yeah, we will have to wait until the coach’s orders” said Banri.

“That’s right, Banri. We can’t train on the first week of classes. Instead, I will give the orders to have the training once the second week begins” said Takehiro.

“Well, we should get back on training after eating” said Itaru.

“Okay!” said the members of the Nashiba High School boys’ basketball team.

The boys as well as Aoi and the members of the girls’ basketball team have done eating their foods and they went back to the basketball court. They continue their training as some of the members were practiced shooting and some were practiced passing the ball to each other.

Later, Ginga Hasegawa and a group of basketball players arrive at the Recreational Center with the players wore their practice shirts.

“Subaru! Takehiro! Everyone! Gather out here!” said Ginga as the members of the Nashiba High School boys’ and girls’ basketball teams walk to Ginga and they were surprised that the selected players from Seirin High School, Shūtoku High School and Tōō Academy were joining him. Ginga befriends them as they came from bigger high schools in Tokyo.

“So, you’ve been surprised by my guests here” said Ginga. Subaru and his friends have never saw those players before.

“My name is Subaru Hasegawa and I’m the captain of the Nashiba High School boys’ basketball team. And here are the members of the Nashiba High School boys’ basketball team: Banri Kashii, Kazunari Uehara, Takumi Ōhata, Naomori Abe, Ryōta Sugihara, Seiji Kōno, Kenshō Odawara, Mitsuhiro Nagakura, Sadatoshi Kiuchi, Itaru Tsuchiya and Daisuke Kojima. What is your name?”

“My name is Tetsuya Kuroko and I’m one of the players of the Seirin High School. This is my friends of mine: Shintaro Midorima, Daiki Aomine, Kazunari Takao, Junpei Hyūga, Kōsuke Wakamatsu, Ryō Sakurai, Rinnosuke Mitobe and Shun Izuki.”

“Nice to meet you, everyone!” said the members of the Nashiba High School boys’ and girls’ basketball team.

“Nice to meet you too!” said the friends of Tetsuya.

“So, what brings you here, Tetsuya?” asked Kazunari.

“Ginga brought us here because he is our friend who loves to explore the country. He has many journals he writesin his notebook” said Tetsuya.

“Really, Ginga?” asked Takumi.

“Of course, I have. I have written these journals two years ago until I finally finished exploring the whole country last month” said Ginga.

“Since they’re here, they will be here for one day because they will back to their schools for their training” said Ginga.

“I hope you will be with us, Kuroko. We’re going to have practice before the Interhigh preliminaries” said Subaru.

“Oh, I see. Since the Interhigh is two months away, there are preliminary matches and in order to take the prefectural tournament, you have to win all preliminary matches. It will start and ends by June. Then, the Interhigh prefectural tournament will be composed of four teams who were advanced from the preliminaries to determine the 50 teams for the summer tournament to be held in August” said Tetsuya.

“Since your team is located in the south, you will see some schools within Tokyo to look forward to have a match right here. In case of the tournament will start soon, there are more than 200 schools in Tokyo competing before heading to the prefectural tournament” said Shintaro.

“In Tokyo, there are strong teams that are very competitive especially for the schools that have great aces like me” said Daiki.

“In a real competition, there are winners and losers in the game. Everyone knows that getting the potential to win games is not easy as it is” said Kazunari Takao.

“Well, there are many high school teams competing for the tournament and it was very interesting to see how they are going for the Interhigh preliminaries” said Kōsuke Wakamatsu.

“As you all know, Seirin had performed well last year while beating many teams before being undefeated and walk away as the national champions” said Junpei.

“Even though that without Taiga, we need to rebuild again and our opportunity to win a three-peat would be different” said Shun.

“Since there are many schools competing to take the four spots, this is your chance. It is your first time to compete for the Interhigh competition” said Rinnosuke.

“Now, on top of that, the middle school prefectural tournament will be held in July before the summer break begins after the high school prefectural tournament” said Ryō.

“Since you’re all here, I have to tell you that we’re forming our own group as The Miracles of Luminous. This is based in Tokyo where the Generation of Miracles have cemented their legacy to prosper their careers as the rise of the Generation of Miracles to international stage have just begun” said Tetsuya.

“I think you’re merging Team Strky with your group?” asked Kazunari Uehara.

“Yep. I called Yukio on the phone and he said that his team will join our group to make sure they are ready to compete for continental competitions” said Daiki.

“Ah, that’s why you’re creating this composed of allies and rivals, right?” asked Banri.

“Of course, it is. During the Winter Cup, most of the players from Seirin High School basketball team want to unite with the schools they rivalled including in Tokyo” said Shintaro.

“It was Kuroko’s idea when Kagami went to America, in order to play for college. He doesn’t know what’s going to happen. So, we decided to call out from other schools to form a community group and Kagotera, Riko’s father, became the president of this group and of course, a sports agent” said Junpei.

“Sports agent?” asked the members of the Nashiba High School basketball team.

“Yeah. Kagotera was surprised to us that he wanted to build this team, in order for them to compete in professional leagues. Yukio and his friends are currently first to enter the agency after the formation” said Rinnosuke.

“Since then, Kagotera became a promoter, a sports agent, a head coach and a president” said Testuya.

“Whoa! That’s one hell of a big job for him” said Subaru.

“That’s right. Now, we’re on the higher level, we’ll compete against some community teams around Japan and the scouts from the national basketball team will arrive soon. We’re planning to play professional in the future” said Tetsuya.

“So, things are going to be cleared that we’re the strongest force in Japanese basketball history” said Shintaro.

“Wow! That’s so cool! As we all know, we have our own community team face off against some of the strongest players in Ōta. Our goal is to represent Ōta for the All-Star Prefectural Tournament in the near future” said Subaru.

“Well, then in order to make it to that tournament, you have to be strong enough to be dominant for more than one year and since it’s an All-Star Tournament, then it’s up to you to join” said Daiki.

“Okay!” said Subaru.

“Now, since in Ōta, there are good players that we need for our team and since we searched for youth players to join, I believe that I have to this myself” said Ginga.

“So, Ginga, you’re looking forward to expand your own team, right?” said Junpei.

“Yep” said Ginga.

“Now, it is possible to add new members for your team to strengthen up. We helped other players in Tokyo to train well, in order to become more competitive in major competitions. For some reasons, we didn’t know you in the first place, but when I saw that journal, there are many players you have written there. So, I will be happy to help you” said Tetsuya.

“Well, sure, Kuroko. I will handle this” said Ginga. Then, he turned to the players of the Nashiba High School basketball team. “Guys, we have a lot of work to do.”

The players of the Nashiba High School basketball team were wondered on what they’re going to do as Ginga thinks about something what Nashiba needs to improve.

Part 2 will be on the next post.

 

[Sherwin Riga]

"More than Just Nashiba" Part 2

The members of Miracles of Luminous begin to train the players of Nashiba High School basketball team. Then, Aoi asked Ginga. “Ginga, are they gonna be alright to be trained by the guests?”

“Well, I would say yes” said Ginga.

“I can’t wait to see the players are going to be stronger than before. It will be a force of everyone’s blessing” said Aoi.

Daisuke would do the windmill dunk that was practiced by Daiki. Daisuke was so strong that he is the former player before the suspension of the program.

“You’re doing great, Daisuke. I need your strong willpower to make sure that your dunk will be mastered” said Daiki.

“Okay!” said Daisuke as he decided to practice dunking in the key. Daiki was thinking about him when he will finally show up in the real game.

On the other hand, Subaru, Banri and Kazunari were trained by Shintaro, Takao and Shun to practice the Synchronization Skill. That move was used by the members of the Keishin Academy basketball team and Subaru needs to practice this with his teammates.

“You have to communicate with each other and then, make sure that you can’t lose the skill” said Takao.

“Okay!” said Subaru, Banri and Kazunari as they practice their Synchronization Skill move. Kaunzari passes the ball to Subaru, then he throws the ball to Banri for the alley-oop.

“Impressive! That was a great alley-oop. I can’t tell you, but you’re doing great so far!” said Shintaro.

“Well, it was planned practice to use that when we’re in intense match-up” said Subaru.

“Does your players have their good moves?” asked Shun.

“Yeah, of course” said Subaru.

“Then, what’s your signature shot?” asked Shintaro.

“The Phantom Floater where I have to shoot the ball with just one hand to drive the ball with an invisible shot and it goes in” said Subaru.

“That’s interesting. Do you have another signature move you have?” asked Shintaro.

“Of course, I have. It is the Brightness Pass. It is a pass where the two of us, me and Kazunari, were passing the ball with the up and down pass that won’t miss” said Subaru.

“Hmm. Very interesting too. Okay, now, I will tell you about the secrets of the Generation of Miracles” said Shintaro.

“Well, sure” said Subaru.

“Now, when I was able to use the ball, I need my stamina to shoot the ball at any range. Even though that I’m the strongest three-point shooter, I can do a hard three-point shot. Just watch” said Shintaro. He demonstrates the hard three-point shot where he jumps and shoots the ball as higher as he can and then, the ball drives in to the basket.

“Whoa! That was amazing shot! I never see that shot by a strong shooting guard” said Subaru.

“It’s so high that he can able to shoot at any range when the area is open for him” said Banri.

“You see that? That’s what the secrets of the Generation of Miracles are used when it comes to situations” said Shintaro.

“Yeah. It seems that no one has ever made this move until a strong characteristic was very high. That’s that time the players can do with the strong move” said Takao.

“Of course, I would be able to do that when the situation is on a high level” said Shintaro.

“Actually, there are signature moves that are used by everyone else. That way, it will reach its high level to do that move when you’re stronger” said Shun.

“For that, there are many players who would like to use the signature moves in the game” said Takao.

“Oh, I forgot about that, Takao” said Shintaro.

“Yeah, why not?’ said Takao.

“Okay, Subaru, Banri and Kazunari, when the signature move was prepared, you have to make sure that the more your teamwork rate increases, the better you use the signature move when it reaches its high level” said Shun.

“Got it!” said Subaru, Banri and Kazunari.

“And remember, make sure that when you use the signature move, you have many things that it might happen. I hope that when the time is come, your power will unleash its move and not to miss that move” said Shintaro.

“Okay!” said Subaru, Banri and Kazunari.

On the other hand, Ryōta, Sadatoshi and Kenshō were trained by Ryō and Kōsuke. They were trying to balance the defense and the offense by controlling the game.

“Easy, guys! You can’t do that without your strength. It’s like this” said Ryō as he tried to help Kenshō strengthen its body to beat Sadatoshi while Ryōta prepares to get the ball.

“When you strengthen the body over another player, you have to increase your power, in order to prevent any physical conduct. I read it from Aomine’s book about his body movement where he can have many moves that he can try to beat his opponent” said Kōsuke.

“I figured it out, guys” said Kenshō as he moves out of Sadatoshi and passes the ball to Ryōta to shoot.

“Nice pass and shot, Kenshō and Ryōta. In case you know, our team has great IQ when it comes to basketball movements. Shōichi Imayoshi was able to read his minds and then, he had to copy the movements. He is a great player in Tōō in offense” said Ryō.

“Now, if you strengthen yourselves, then you have to work out with your body to move. In case of your opponent still determines to stop you, then you will fight back” said Kōsuke.

“Got it!” said Kenshō, Sadatoshi and Ryōta.

Later, the players of the Nashiba High School basketball team have a meeting with the members of The Miracles of Luminous.

“According to the Tokyoites, basketball is the most popular sport aside from baseball and soccer. I believe that when we will able to strengthen our team, we’ll make sure that we’ll dominate” said Tetsuya.

“I will be telling you that some of our players have some great potentials in basketball, but for some reasons, the moves might not be risky as is” said Shintaro.

“And why’s that?” asked Kazunari Uehara.

“The injuries. Injuries can limit their potential and loses its stamina. For some information I was knowing about, Daiki, Atsushi and Ryōta experience their injuries because their fatigues were increased when playing” said Shintaro.

“I believe that no one in our team have been injured” said Subaru.

“Yep. I have to strengthen my body to prevent pressure. It can’t be applied when the mismatches and situations grow further” said Daiki.

“On the bright side, players will have to exercise and to eat the right food” said Junpei.

“It seems that everyone has the right to exercise and while they work out, their sweats will be sent to our bodies. It means that it will cool off the pressure” said Rinnosuke.

“That way, we’re allowed to train at any place they wanted to go to” said Shun.

“For your team, since it’s for Ōta, right?” asked Shintaro.

“Yeah” said the members of the Nashiba High School basketball team.

“Then, you have to work out three times a week and while on training, don’t pressure too much” said Shintaro.

“Okay!” said the members of the Nashiba High School basketball team.

“Assumed that you’re ready, then, it’s the time to start playing” said Kōsuke.

“Tetsuya, when it reaches June, then we will start the preliminaries before heading to the prefectural tournament” said Takehiro.

“Yes, of course, Takehiro. The prefectural tournament will be composed of four teams and the winners will be advanced to the Interhigh Championship. On the other hand, other teams will have to play for the city leagues in Tokyo” said Tetsuya.

“Now, will you show the Tokyo Basketball Calendar of Activities?” asked Takehiro.

“Uh, we don’t have it because it’s not officially the start of the school year” said Tetsuya.

“Our calendar didn’t release yet to the public” said Shintaro.

“It will be released before the Golden Week” said Daiki.

“So, you have to wait for it” said Tetsuya.

“Okay!” said the members of the Nashiba High School basketball team.

“Now, let’s move on something what Ginga does before he went back. His journey in Japan and East Asia” said Tetsuya.

“Oh, you’re talking about my father’s journey in Japan and East Asia. Is that right, Kuroko?” said Subaru.

“Yeah. You see, I met Ginga when he was travelling to the Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium in Sendagaya after a match at the Interhigh Tournament” said Tetsuya.

“Really?” asked Kazunari.

“Yeah. He was exploring the Interhigh tournament since he took a break from travelling the world. I believe that he was very enthusiastic to see me and of course, I give him a Seirin jacket” said Tetsuya.

“Wow! I think he was very active when playing basketball games, but of course, when the game starts, he knows about everything” said Subaru.

“Yeah. Now, on top of that, he said to me that he explored some of the great players in East Asia when he was travelling the world. I think there are many players wanted to play professionally and they wanted to represent their own country just like us” said Tetsuya.

“Well, that was very nice to see your father watching games in the Dome, Subaru” said Naomori.

“Yeah. My friends and I were also watching these games when we don’t have activities in Nashiba and also, it was crowded” said Subaru.

“Yeah. Ginga said that he explored in East Asia including in China and Korea. Also, there are many basketball players who played in the professional leagues. Of course, there is no restrictions in the Japanese basketball league and they have their naturalization rule” said Tetsuya.

“How do you know the leagues in Japan?” asked Takumi.

“There are many amateur leagues in Japan and many teams have competing with their own salary. The amateur teams have their own business to do and in order to pay for the team, they signed their contract for cheaper money” said Shun.

“For players in the professional leagues, they sign a large contract with large money to play for a year or more” said Junpei.

“As you can see, Kagotera wanted to become a renown sports agent and he can allow anyone to sign players to be with them. Although that Japan is economically liberal, they can end up spending their money not once, but twice” said Ryō.

“The league has their own salary cap, in order to allow teams to sign players through the rules” said Kōsuke.

“Wow! That’s amazing. So, is Kagotera applying for license to allow players to sign with Japanese players to the agency?” said Ryōta.

“Yes, it is, Ryōta. I believe that he will be able to bring the players to play and they will probably end up being the richest sports agent in Tokyo soon” said Daiki.

“Tell us more about how you and Ginga met” said Banri.

“Okay. I will explain. He travelled the world that he can play basketball through his friends. When he said that he had met some of his friends, they were the same level as him since he was a former basketball player in his youth” said Tetsuya.

“So, in order to know about everything in East Asia, he created a journal where he explored about his journey in Japan and East Asia. Then, when he concluded his journey recently when he heard that Nashiba High School boys’ basketball team was re-instated” said Tetsuya.

“That means that we finally form our team from the scratch and then, recruit some stronger players in Ōta” said Subaru.

“Yeah. We build this team, in order to become stronger as they can be” said Kazunari Uehara.

“Well, you know about everything since your team has been reformed” said Tetsuya.

“Yeah” said the members of the Nashiba High School basketball team.

“Okay, guys. Our team have also travelled East Asia after the Winter Cup” said Tetsuya.

“Really? That’s so cool! Tetsuya, I believe that you met some of the young players in China and Korea” said Naomori.

“You see, we headed to Korea for a match after the Winter Cup” said Shintaro.

“For what?” asked Takumi.

“In a regional youth tournament where we face off against some of the strongest high school teams in East Asia” said Takao.

“An All-Star team known as Vorpal Swords was created since summer and we’re merging with some of the stronger schools in Japan like Kaijo, Shūtoku, Tōō, Yosen, Rakuzan and many more. After our victory against Jabberwock, we decided to form this Dream Team to enter the regional youth tournament to represent Japan. We won the tournament after defeating China with a large margin” said Tetsuya.

“Maybe that team was stronger than the other basketball teams in Japan, right?” asked Ryōta.

“Yes, indeed. I know that the stronger teams in East Asia were way big and we decided to come up on a strategy that we ever make. Everyone in Japan knows us to become the strongest basketball team in the country in the current years and we believe that we’ll start growing” said Tetsuya.

“I looked at the newspaper reports that Vorpal Swords had defeated many opponents by large margin of points. Even though that they are strong, they are planning to trip to the West to challenge them. I believe that Jabberwock became wary of the Vorpal Swords for the international tournament” said Subaru.

“That’s correct, Subaru. I think we’re ready to represent our country for the international competition this year with the Basketball Without Borders will be held in China, many of the East Asian players want to step up, in order to become more prepared for future competitions” said Junpei.

“Do you have any members who confirmed their participation for the Basketball Without Borders?” asked Takehiro.

“Uh, I only heard that Taiga Kagami will participate. But for us, we didn’t know yet. I believe that we’re going to play for the event since East Asia dominates the world” said Tetsuya.

“We hope that when the international competition comes, we’re going to make sure that we’ll win the tournament” said Daiki.

“What is the goal for the team, Kuroko?” asked Subaru.

“To become the strongest basketball team in Japan with our players developing. It means that we’re going to become more competitive like the other nations did” said Tetsuya.

“It appears that many of your members are planning to enter the professional leagues soon” said Takehiro.

“Yeah, Takehiro” said Tetsuya.

So, aside from Taiga going to NBA, who will be also planning to play in the NBA?” asked Kazunari Uehara.

“Our team haven’t plans yet in going to the NBA. In this world, there are dominant players in East Asia at the start of the new millennium. Elsewhere, there are European players who were also good and they’re better than Eastern players” said Daiki.

“Well, I hope that you make it to the NBA as soon as possible” said Subaru.

“Yeah. Are you planning to be in the NBA too?” said Tetsuya.

“No, we’re not going to the NBA. We’re going to stay in Japan to play basketball” said Subaru.

“Well, okay. I think that is it for us. I hope that you’ll be able to train hard and work hard as long as you’re going to be ready for the Interhigh preliminaries” said Tetsuya.

“So, Tetsuya, are you done talking with them?” asked Ginga.

“Yeah, Ginga. I think they trained good. Now, we should go now” said Tetsuya.

“Bye, Kuroko! Bye, everyone! See ya around!” said the members of the Nashiba High School basketball team as they wave goodbyes to Tetsuya and his friends.

Takehiro walks to the members of the Nashiba High School basketball team and then, he had to talk with them.

“Everyone! I was wondering that you’re all ready to play for the Interhigh preliminaries, but in order to play, we need to improve your skills and moves. I hope that you’re going to be ready for Sunday against Team Mizusaki” said Takehiro.

“Yeah!” said the members of the Nashiba High School basketball team.

“Well, then. I’m calling the basketball director of the Keishin Academy basketball team Kōnosuke Kobori to see Ginga Hasegawa” said Takehiro.

“Mr. Kobori? I wonder what he will be talking with my father along with Hiromasa Nakayama, the basketball director of the Kirihara Middle School” said Subaru.

“What’s wrong, Subaru?” asked Takumi.

“I decided to let the girls enroll to Keishin in the first place, in order to train them for the middle school, but Mr. Nakayama recommends the girls and boys to enroll at Kirihara Middle School. So, I decided to take Kirihara for the girls to play. Later, after enrolling at Kirihara last Saturday, Aya reveals this the night before our training. Thank goodness, Tomoka and the players of the Keishin Academy basketball team have decided to stay in Keishin in middle school” said Subaru.

“Oh, that means that they’ll stay for middle school?” asked Naomori.

“Yeah. I’m sorry for what I did because I wanted Tomoka and her friends to really stay in Keishin for middle school and to become stronger like us” said Subaru.

“Hmm, okay, Subaru. I think we’re fine with them to stay in Keishin” said Ryōta.

“You really think so?” asked Subaru.

“Of course, Subaru. I think we need the Bravehearts to stay in Keishin because it’s their promise they made for you” said Banri.

“Yeah, I will be fine with Tomoka and her teammates because they think that I’m good in coaching, but of course, I will be joining the coaching staff of the Keishin Academy girls’ basketball team soon” said Subaru.

“That’s great! Subaru, let’s have a party for that decision” said Aoi.

“Yeah!” said the members of the Nashiba High School boys’ and girls’ basketball team. The Nashiba High School basketball team had help from Tetsuya Kuroko and his friends as they are ready to play against Shin Mizusaki and his team on Sunday. The decision of letting Tomoka and her friends to stay in Keishin was final as Subaru tells the truth about the decision where he made up his mind for the girls to stay. Later, as Ginga and the members of The Miracles of Luminous are leaving, they were met by Kōnosuke Kobori and Hiromasa Nakayama.

“Mr. Hasegawa, can we talk for a second?” asked Mr. Kobori.

“Okay” said Ginga as he left the group to go to the Golden Sun Restaurant along with Mr. Kobori and Mr. Nakayama.

UP NEXT: Chapter 27: "Reaffirmation and Agreement"

 

[Sherwin Riga]

Here is the next chapter of the Rooks, Knights and Bravehearts series! Enjoy!:)

Since the plot to enter at Kirihara Middle School worries the director of the Keishin Academy basketball program Kōnosuke Kobori about the boys and girls, Subaru told the truth last night when he knows that it was Hiromasa Nakayama's scheme to get the members of the Keishin Academy basketball team to make Kirihara's basketball program became stronger. The next day, Tomoka and her friends including Natsuhi announce that they will rescind their enrollment to Kirihara Middle School and they will remain in Keishin Academy for middle school. This causes a conflict between Michiko Takeda, Akiko Miyazaki and Megumi Kadokawa, but at the end, they were stopped by Miyu Aida and Rena Ashihara. At the end, Michiko, Akiko and their friends will end up going to Kirihara Middle School to balance both Keishin and Kirihara's basketball programs and most of the batchmates from Keishin have ended up staying in Keishin for middle school. Now, it's the meeting between the father of Subaru Hasegawa and the two basketball directors at the Golden Sun Restaurant of the Misawa Resort Hotel. Will Ginga tells the truth or the friendship between the Tomoka's friends and their batchmates gone to chaos?

VOLUME 3: “A CHARMING SENSATION”
CHAPTER 27: “REAFFIRMATION AND AGREEMENT”​

Ginga thinks about the decision of letting Tomoka and her friends to choose either Keishin or Kirihara, but since his Subaru tells the truth, he needs to say this to the basketball directors of Keishin and Kirihara.
“I have to decide this before the enrollment ends tomorrow. I can’t accept the fate of my son’s decisions on whether they will enroll in those two. It may affect everything if I don’t know what to say in the end” said Ginga while walking to the Golden Sun Restaurant.

Ginga Hasegawa, Kōnosuke Kobori and Hiromasa Nakayama went to the Golden Sun Restaurant at the Misawa Resort Hotel where they talked to him about the concern between the decision of Tomoka and her friends including Natsuhi.

“I’m concerned about our players, Ginga” said Mr. Kobori.

“But why?” asked Ginga.

“I need them back to Keishin for middle school. They already enrolled earlier before graduation” said Mr. Kobori.

“Come on, Mr. Kobori. They enrolled in our school as well” said Mr. Nakayama.

“But the truth is that my son wanted Tomoka and her teammates to stay in Keishin, so that he will be taking part of the coaching staff of the Keishin Academy girls’ basketball team. Then after graduation, I heard that the girls along with their friends will be going to Kirihara Middle School. But no one has ever declined their enrollment in Keishin and as a result, it’s a decision conflict for them” said Ginga.

“I’m very alarmed yesterday when you said to me that Tomoka and her friends will be going to Kirihara. That’s not gonna happen!” said Mr. Kobori.

“I doubt that those girls will enroll in our school, but Ginga, if Subaru decides that these girls will enroll in Kirihara, and then it’s supposedly settled. But now, what decision will you pick? Letting the girls to go to our school or let them stay in their former school” said Mr. Nakayama.

Ginga thinks about the two decisions. The first choice is that Tomoka and her friends are going to leave Keishin to transfer to Kirihara. The other choice is that they will end up not transferring to Kirihara because Subaru knows his own decision in the first place.

“My son told me the truth earlier before I accompanied the visitors earlier. So, I–” said Ginga, who was interrupted by Tomoka and Natsuhi.

“We decided to stay in Keishin Academy for middle school and to join the basketball team” said Tomoka and Natsuhi together.

“Tomoka? Natsuhi? Why are you here?” said Ginga.

“I wanted to tell the basketball directors that my friends and I will rescind our enrollment in Kirihara and stay in Keishin Academy” said Tomoka. Natsuhi grins while Mr. Kobori and Mr. Nakayama were shocked.

“Ah… okay, I get. I get it. Since you’re here and as you can see, Ginga needs to decide to whether the players will stay in Keishin or end up going to Kirihara, but I was so surprised that you’re already here” said Mr. Kobori.

“Yeah. But Subaru said to us that he wanted to continue to be with us as long as that we’re going to play for your school, Mr. Kobori” said Tomoka.

“We didn’t reveal our school yet before Ginga knows the whole plot by Mr. Nakayama. That’s why I wanted to say that my teammates and I will enroll to Keishin Academy” said Natsuhi.

“Okay, then, I will accept your decision, Tomoka and Natsuhi. I hereby announced that our players will remain in Keishin Academy for middle school” said Mr. Kobori.

“Yes!” said Tomoka and Natsuhi as Subaru’s decision on Tomoka and her friends was solved. Mr. Nakayama felt bad about this and was about to leave the restaurant, but suddenly, Subaru arrived.

“Wait!” said Subaru as Tomoka and Natsuhi walk to him. Mr. Nakayama felt bad about his failed plot that was spoiled by Tomoka and Natsuhi.

“Mr. Nakayama, in exchange of this, I want to have this list” said Tomoka as she decided to give this list to him.

In the letter:

These students will be enrolled in Kirihara Middle School:

Team Takeda: Michiko Takeda, Ayane Shirakawa, Haruko Kōyama, Kozue Hanabusa and Aika Sagawa
Team Miyazaki: Akiko Miyazaki, Natsuki Sakura, Satsuki Ōkuma, Katsuei Kōno, Asami Nakagawa, Miki Akizuki, Kōichi Aoyama and Mito Azaki

“So, those will students will enroll for our school?” asked Mr. Nakayama.

“Yes, Mister. As you can see, Michiko is my friend of mine from Shiromidai Elementary School. You can let her enroll to your school. She is the Miracle Girl who beat Suzuridani Academy in the fourth round of the district tournament” said Tomoka.

“Well, okay, Tomoka. I accept your deal. I guess I won’t be sad anymore” said Mr. Nakayama. Then, he walks to Subaru. “Subaru, I’m very sorry for doing this.”

“It’s okay, Mister. Definitely it’s my fault for not letting my friends decide to enroll in two schools. That would have been a disaster if it continues” said Subaru.

“Okay, Subaru. I understand about the concern, but Subaru, since you’re my former student, I wanted to know that I have to accept Mr. Kobori’s decision that Tomoka and her friends will be stayed in Keishin Academy for middle school” said Mr. Nakayama.

“It’s fine, Mister. Maybe we will plan something for the group because I definitely need to do something for you” said Subaru.

“And what is that, Subaru?” asked Mr. Nakayama.

“You will have to find out in the tournament” said Subaru.

“Okay, Subaru. Just let know if you want to deal with us soon” said Mr. Nakayama as he leaves the restaurant.

“Okay, Mister” said Subaru. Then, Tomoka, Natsuhi and Subaru hug to each other as they finally complete their decision. They would go to Mr. Kobori and Ginga to talk about the plans for the future.

“Mr. Kobori. Ginga. I was thinking if we’re planning to let me coach the girls while the other members of the coaching staff will also do their duties” said Subaru.

“Well, fine if you want to coach the team. As you can see, I was thinking that Mr. Ogasawara may accept this decision because I want the players to stay for middle school. If I will be planning to do to adjust the coaching staff, then I need you to take part of it” said Mr. Kobori.

“Yeah, Mister. Actually, I’m also a player for Nashiba High School boys’ basketball and I want you to lend our team’s support for the Interhigh competition” said Subaru.

“Well, we have our basketball team in our high school division, but if appears that since you’re one of the former players in our school in elementary school, we wanted to support your team, despite that we supported the basketball program for competitions” said Mr. Kobori.

“You know what, Mr. Kobori, my son was ready to play again and in case that your support is needed for his school, then you should support the former players of Keishin Academy who were playing in other schools” said Ginga.

“Okay, Ginga. I will be supporting your son’s team for the Interhigh preliminaries, but I hope that our team will be bidding good lucks to him and his team he will be competing” said Mr. Kobori.

“Yes, Mister” said Ginga and Subaru.

“Tomoka, Natsuhi, as for the players who will be competing for the middle school competition, we will organize the training for three months and then, the manager will have to conduct drills and activities soon” said Mr. Kobori.

“Okay. We’ll be waiting for the schedule, Mister” said Tomoka and Natsuhi.

“Yeah. I promised that when the manager gives you the schedule, you are wished to enter our training as soon as you can” said Mr. Kobori.

“Okay, Mister!” said Tomoka and Natsuhi.

“So, Ginga, I will talk to Mr. Ogasawara and I’ll update you when he accepts my formal decision. As for the students who will be staying in Keishin, we need you to finalize this tomorrow. Now, I’m off to the academy to talk with Mr. Ogasawara and I’ll see you tomorrow” said Mr. Kobori as he leaves the restaurant while Tomoka, Natsuhi and Subaru were excited to have the Bravehearts stay in Keishin with the exception of Team Miyazaki.

“Tomoka, Natsuhi, I wanted you to prepare ourselves for Sunday’s games and it’s so interesting that we’re all ready to go to Keishin Academy. How’s the leaders’ meeting?” said Subaru.

“It continues without us and they wanted to change the schedule for the qualifying games from one day to two days because they planned to reschedule the draw from Sunday to tomorrow” said Tomoka.

“Also, there are many schools have confirmed their participation for the Hasegawa Cup including the Suzuridani Girls’ Academy and Shiromidai Elementary School. It seems that Jun and her friends will change their enrollment from Tamagawa to Den-en-chōfu Middle School. I believe that she had an agreement with us” said Natsuhi.

“I see. I guess that we can talk that later, but right now, how’s the team trainings for the six teams?” said Subaru.

“They’re doing fine and also, most of the players are ready for the qualifying games. They are excited to have these matches earlier as expected” said Natsuhi.

“It appears that the rosters are finalized in order to prepare for tomorrow’s activities. In order to have the games in the afternoon, we will all go to Keishin Academy to finalize our enrollment” said Tomoka.

“It appears that we need to do this tomorrow before the enroll and I think that we’re all set for the next activities soon. Since our players in Nashiba have met the guys from Seirin and the like earlier, we’re in luck to have us trained and our moves have been improved” said Subaru.

“Wow! You met Tetsuya and his friends?” said Natsuhi.

“Yep. Usually they were independent from other basketball players because they came from large schools who have good facilities and training areas” said Subaru.

“It seems that the fitness gym was very nice because they have many equipment and many bottled water out here” said Tomoka.

“Hmm. I’m sure that we need special training soon as long as we should have the schedule for the major competitions in Tokyo” said Subaru.

“Like the other schools, they are prepared to compete for the Hasegawa Cup and I believe that they were very competitive when it comes to community competitions. As long as we’re ready to compete for the middle school district tournament, we’re going to become winners this year. Right, Natsuhi?” said Tomoka.

“Yeah, Tomoka” said Natsuhi.

“It’s very familiar that you have their signature moves differ from the other players in other schools, but of course, in order to improve the Synchronization Skill, we need to improve the vital statistics, so that when the teamwork rating is high, we will use that move” said Ginga.

“Oh, that’s great, Ginga! I think there are many players who could use that move, in order to maintain our teamwork in every game” said Subaru.

“Exactly. I wonder if we’re going to have special trainings, then we will do that by holiday break” said Ginga.

“Yeah, of course” said Subaru.

“Now, we have classes starting April 1 and on the first week, there will be no training. Then, on the eighth day of April, the training will be every other day after the class while Saturdays and Sundays are optional. For the Nashiba players, it will be everyday” said Ginga.

“According to my calendar on my phone, in April, the Golden Week will be held from April 29 and May 3-5, and I believe that it will be a long week to don’t have training in school. Instead, we’ll schedule our own activities” said Tomoka.

“Hmm. Golden Week is very interesting for us because a basketball invitational will be held for the twenties” said Subaru.

“Yeah, but that’s not our tournament. Instead, we have this tournament known as the Nishina Invitational” said Tomoka.

“I think that tournament is divided into different categories. We will play against our own teams, but of course, we have some other teams in Ōmori” said Natsuhi.

“That tournament will be better for us to win that tournament after the Hasegawa Cup. So, in case that we have many teams to compete, then we should wait for the number of teams to participate” said Tomoka.

“That’s right, Tomoka. Then, we will be ready to play against at least local teams in Ōmori for the Nishina Invitational, but of course, since it has different categories, we should play for the youth division” said Subaru.
“On the other hand, Ginga, will have your team participate at the event?” asked Tomoka.

“Yeah. I contacted my friends to form a team to compete for the Invitational and they’ll be here next month in the park” said Ginga.

“Okay. We should also talk to the other leaders to know about the next tournament” said Tomoka.

“Yeah. Everyone we should go to the leaders’ meeting at the Recreational Center” said Subaru.

“Yeah!” said Tomoka, Natsuhi and Ginga as they leave the restaurant along with Subaru to go to the Recreational Center where the leaders’ meeting is ongoing.

Part 2 will be on the next post.

 

[Sherwin Riga]

"Reaffirmation and Agreement" Part 2

Subaru, Tomoka, Natsuhi and Ginga went to the conference room of the Recreational Center where the leaders of the groups come from the six teams and the members of the Keishin Academy basketball team are talking to one another.

“Saki, how’s the meeting?” asked Subaru.

“It’s fine, Subaru. We haven’t decided yet to reschedule the draw of the qualifiers because other schools may use the courts for the training. So, we’ll move the draw either today or tomorrow” said Saki.

“Well, let’s decide” said Subaru as he, Tomoka, Natsuhi and Ginga sit down on the chairs as the voting starts.

“Who wants to reschedule the draw to tomorrow?” asked Saki. None have raise their hands to move the schedule for the draw tomorrow.

“Now, who wants to reschedule the draw to today?” asked Saki. All of the attendees raise their hands to move the schedule for the draw. “Well, we’ll reschedule the draw today.”

“Whew! I never thought what we say that, but today will be draw, everyone” said Tomoka. The other attendees were relieved that they wanted to reschedule the draw earlier.

“So, when we will have the qualifying games?” asked Maho.

“How about tomorrow? So that after the draw, we will let the teams to compete” said Hinata.

“I seconded Hinata’s proposal, too” said Airi while Kagetsu and leaders of the six teams agree on Hinata’s proposal.

“Okay, I will reschedule the qualifying games tomorrow” said Saki.

“Now, we will have the draw for the qualifying games” said Maho.

“Since the draw will be held today instead of Sunday, we will have the games tomorrow and on Monday” said Mimi.

“Now, we’ll pick the first pairing” said Saki.

The papers were put to the box and Maho will pick two papers to have them a match. For the first round, it will be team against team from the same level. For the second round, it will be team against team from the incoming sixth grade level.

“For the first round for the girls’ division, we have Orange and Fuchsia-Team Kashii and Innocent Charm-Team Kanazawa” said Maho.

Then, the papers were picked by Maho to form a second pair for the first round.

“Then, we have Team Blue and Yellow and Family of Angels-Team Kirihara” said Maho.

Maho would pick the last pair for the first round of the girls’ division. The only pair for the sixth grade level was revealed.

“The pair for the lower group will be Innocent Charm-Team Satō and Dazzled Hearts-Team Fujii” said Maho.

“Now, I will pick the rest of the games for the second round” said Saki.

Saki picks the papers to determine the first and only pair to be played on Monday.

“We have Dazzled Hearts-Team Nagatsuka and Team Aurora” said Saki.

“We only have three papers left and I’ll state the second round matches” said Mimi.

Maho and Saki arrange the results of the draw while the three papers will be selected by Mimi to determine their matches for the second round. Mimi reveals the first team from the lower group to compete against the winner of Team #1.

“The winner of Match #1 will battle against Dazzled Hearts-Team Takenaka” said Mimi.

Saki puts the paper to the table while Mimi reveals the second team from the lower group to compete against the winner of Match #2.

“The winner of Match #2 will battle against Orange and Fuchsia-Team Fujisaki” said Mimi.

Saki puts the paper to the table and Mimi reveals the only team from the higher group to compete against the winner of Match #3.

“And the winner of Match #3 will battle against Family of Angels-Team Angels” said Mimi. Saki puts the paper to the table.

“That’s all for the draw of the girls’ division. Now, we’ll move on the boys’ division” said Maho.

Now, Saki picks the first pair for the first round of the boys’ division.

“The first pair of the first round for the boys’ division will be Family of Angels-Team Kirihara and Orange and Fuchsia-Team Kashii” said Saki.

Then, Saki selects the next pair of the first round of the boys’ division.

“The second pair will be Dazzled Hearts-Team Nagatsuka and Family of Angels-Team Angels” said Saki.

Saki picks the last pair for the first round of the boys’ division.

“The last pair will be Team Aurora and Orange and Fuchsia-Team Fujisaki” said Saki.

Now, Maho takes the pick for the first and only pair that will be played on Monday.

“The other matches for the second round will revealed. First, we have Team Blue and Yellow and Dazzled Hearts-Team Takenaka” said Maho.

“Let’s move on to the other pairs to determine the matches” said Mimi.

Mimi reveals the first pair for the second round of the boys’ division.

“The winner of Match #1 will battle against Dazzled Hearts-Team Fujii” said Mimi.

Saki puts the paper to the table while Mimi reveals the second team from the lower group to compete against the winner of Match #2.

“The winner of Match #2 will battle against Innocent Charm-Team Satō” said Mimi.

Saki puts the paper to the table and Mimi reveals the only team from the higher group to compete against the winner of Match #3.

“And the winner of Match #3 will battle against Innocent Charm-Team Kanazawa” said Mimi. Saki puts the paper to the table.

“We finished the draw for the qualifying games for the Bravehearts Group in the Hasegawa Cup” said Saki.

“All of the games will be decided with 6 minutes in 4 quarters and overtime will be applied if the game is tied” said Maho.

“Let’s move on to some discussions from Jun, Megumi and Michiko” said Kagetsu.

“Now, I talked to my friends that Team Gotō will have two new schools: Anzu Ogi, Nanako Funatani, Dairoku Kaji and Shigeru Hirashita will end up enrolling at Keishin Academy while Hitomi Takao, Masami Nojima, Kyōji Nogami and Masanobu Uehara will enroll at Den-en-chōfu Middle School” said Jun.

“We also decided that while the members of Team Takeda and Team Miyazaki will be enrolling at Kirihara Middle School, all of my friends from her own team will be enrolling to Keishin Academy for middle school along with Anzu, Nanako, Dairoku and Shigeru” said Megumi.

“I also hereby announce that Jun’s Angels will be going to Den-en-chōfu Middle School for middle school next year” said Jun.

“We discussed our plans in the same way, but we also solved our problems as each of us will be enrolling different schools for the incoming first year middle school students” said Akiko.

“Hitomi said that while the final roster was confirmed for the girls’ team, we’ll add some new members for the boys’ team. Katsuya Kameda will be joining the roster along with Shinsuke Nagatomo and Suehiro Yamazaki. They are from section 6-6 and set to enroll at Den-en-chōfu Middle School” said Megumi.

“In case the new members will be here, we’re going to keep the starting line-ups, but will adjust the rotations. That’s all for now” said Jun.

“Thank you, Jun. Now, with the matches are set, the games will begin in the afternoon after we’ll going to Keishin Academy to have our enrollment for middle school to be finalized for the students who will be going to first year middle school” said Maho.

“Okay, everyone. The meeting is adjourned and good luck for the matches tomorrow” said Saki.

The leaders of each group and the members of the Keishin Academy basketball team have left the conference room and leaves the Recreational Center. They went to home where they will have their dinner and then, plans to do in the future.

After dinner, the members of Jun’s Angels and Team Gotō were together in one room at the living room along with Tomoka and Jun. The song 「楔」 by Baby’s breath was used as a background song for the scene.

“Megumi, I believe that you are doing great in the training, but I think the tournament will not only be the important event for you, but your upcoming birthday on April 8” said Tomoka.

“Yeah. It’s true that my birthday will be soon, and I was hoping that my friends will arrive tomorrow for them to watch the qualifying games” Also, the boys will be playing with flying colors and they were Natsuhi’s classmates who beat Daisuke and Nagamasa’s section 6-D in the intramural competition” said Megumi.

“Oh, your friends are gonna be here tomorrow?” asked Jun.

“Yeah. It’s been two weeks since the graduation and we’re having fun to enjoy with them. We did playing video games and performing puppetry” said Megumi.

“Well, I recall that before when our section performs puppetry” said Tomoka.

“Yeah, good old days. It really expects to be fun than writing” said Megumi.

“Ryōta, while playing basketball, you have many drawings you create. Did you have it?” said Dairoku.

“Yes, I have many of it, but of course, my favorite drawing is when I draw a couple who hold hands on the top of the temple” said Ryōta.

“So, did you like to play basketball with your friends in school?” asked Shigeru.

“Yeah. I recognize everyone in the school including Natsuhi and his teammates. These guys are playing well with their own moves” said Ryōta.

“We, boys, have many moves to play and there are common moves that are popular in the world like the crossover move and the pick and roll play” said Kiyoto.

“I believe that when we used some moves that are common to anyone, they were very strong in attributes and skills” said Shōzō.

“In one time, there are high schoolers playing basketball with their own moves and they looked professional players if I recall correctly” said Ryōta.

“I wonder what kind of skills and attributes what we have the most and there are many of us have strengths and weaknesses” said Kiyoto.

“Well, there are many of us who have learned to use the moves and while the attributes increase, they keep practicing until they made it” said Fujiko.

“Oh, there are some of the students in Keishin who have their roles to play, in order to do their flashy moves and versatile plays” said Shōzō.

“Our group has many players to play and I believe that we have enough players to participate at the Hasegawa Cup” said Fujiko.

“Yeah. We will make sure that when we’re playing for the tournament, we’re going to show ourselves in playing basketball” said Ryōta.

“Well, our opponents are not bad after all. Team Blue and Yellow is expected to have strong defense while their weakness is their athleticism” said Nanako.

“I’m very surprised that we will face off against some of the great defensive teams tomorrow” said Dairoku.

“Hmm. I believe that we’re good in offense plays and mental abilities” said Shōzō.

“Yeah” said Dairoku, Fujiko, Nanako, Ryōta and Kiyoto.

“Our defense needs to be done by pulling them out with blocks and rebounds” said Dairoku.

“Actually, we were good in shooting and ball control” said Kiyoto.

“Don’t forget the passing, Kiyoto” said Masanobu.

“Oh, right” said Kiyoto.

“I’m aware that we have few boys in both teams, but Michiko said that they will be here tomorrow either a Keishin or Shiromidai student” said Dairoku.

“Yeah. Since we have many girls in our team, maybe we have weakened the numbers in the boys’ team. I’m sure that they will come tomorrow” said Nanako.

“Probably there are some action will take on tomorrow’s games and we should win all the matches before heading to the second round” said Masanobu.

“Yep. Since we will have two games in the first round, we should win those matches, in order to move on the second round” said Dairoku.

“I feel that we’re going to settle the strategy” said Ryōta.

“What strategy are we going to use?” asked Masanobu.

“We already have the Red Five Plan for the girls. So, what expectations do you have in the game?” said Fujiko.

“I have an idea” said Ryōta. Then, Masanobu, Shōzo, Dairoku, Fujiko, Nanako, Ryōta and Kiyoto whispers to each other while planning to do a strategy for the boys’ team of Team Angels and Team Kirihara.

On the other hand, the members of Jun’s Angels, Megumi, Michiko, Akiko, Tomoka and Nami were taking about the agreement.

“So, what’s the agreement that you’re planning, Jun?” asked Anzu.

“You see, I was planning to have us staying at the Misawa Resort Hotel for a year and since the school year is about to begin on April 1, I need to ask Masayoshi to stay in the Misawa Resort Hotel along with you” said Jun.

“The Family of Angels has never lost their faith and hope for our future because right now, we’re growing together as a group” said Nozomi.

“Yeah. The band has many things to do and since it’s over a year, we’re going to separate with the orphanage soon” said Sora.

“The orphanage has a few number of members and sometimes they wanted to leave to hang out with their friends. I know they will be going to enjoy their lives in the borders of Setagaya and Den-en-chōfu” said Kyō.

“Jun, Nozomi and Sora spend their stay at the orphanage for a year and since Masayoshi wants them to go to join with us, our friendship between the two bands create” said Kurumi.

“Tomoka, I’m sure that Jun and her bandmates want to stay with you and it’s been an honor that we want to do the same thing” said Sakura.

“You do? Oh, that was a great idea! I’m happy to have your statement because the Family of Angels will have their possession to stay at the mansion while others will have to stay at different places” said Tomoka.

“Of course, Tomoka. I appreciate your time to spend with you” said Kōme.

“It’s almost April and we should work together with you and your friends to keep our friendship developing to its fullest” said Yuzuha.

“That’s right, Kōme and Yuzuha. Tomoka, the agreement will be for us and the Family of Angels to stay together” said Kurumi.

“I’m fine with that too, Kurumi” said Jun.

“Me too!” said Nozomi and Sora.

“I’m going to be happy with hang out with you and your friends!” said Kyō.

“Let’s enjoy together after the school class, so that we’ll hang out for a walk” said Sakura.

“I think you’re all welcomed to enjoy staying with us, Jun’s Angels” said Tomoka.

“Thanks, Tomoka!” said the members of Jun’s Angels.

“With my sister will be joining with you, let me know that our team has showed its appreciation in helping us to grow our potential in basketball” said Anzu.

“When Michiko is here, our partnership with her and her team will be developed further. I hope that when we’re playing, let’s think about our own team in the future” said Hitomi.

“Oh, yeah. Okay, Hitomi. I hope we’ll play together with your friends” said Michiko.

“That’s so sweet” said Hitomi.

“With my hopes of going to Kirihara Middle School begin, I will become stronger than my friends I have met” said Akiko.

“Wow! You’re not kidding?” said Hitomi.

“She has many thoughts about her future and she can able to shine the game with her own skills” said Michiko. Hitomi and Michiko smile to Akiko.

“I hope you’re going to be part of the team, Akiko” said Michiko.

“Yeah” said Akiko.

“Everyone! We finally made the strategy for the boys’ team” said Dairoku.

“Oh, it’s here! Everyone, look!” said Kyō as Dairoku shows the playbook.

“Each player will watch out the opponents as we’re trying to step them through the zone. The zone needs to be applied if we’re playing on a serious game” said Dairoku.

“I got a question. Why are we going to enter the zone?” said Kyō.

“So that we will have to play defense with our guarding and rebounding” said Dairoku.

“Our defense will be better if we play smart while trying to gain our momentum” said Ryōta.

“The games against Orange and Fuchsia and Dazzled Hearts will be our training ground” said Shōzō.

“I believe that there is a rule that if we both win our games in the second round, we can’t represent two teams. We need one team and instead, we will pick out the wildcard team to compete” said Masanobu.

“Yeah, I think the rule will be applied if two teams representing the same group win their games” said Kyō.

“That’s true, Kyō. There is a rule that if a group that represent two or more teams wins the game, they will be limiting it to just one team. The wildcard teams will be chosen by the Bravehearts to replace the duplicate team” said Megumi.

“Oh, I almost forgot that this rule will only apply for the qualifying games depends on the results on Monday” said Tomoka.

“I have to say that whoever will play against, they’re going to be lucky depends on the group’s decision” said Michiko.

“Okay, boys. It looks like that we’re going to make sure that we will win the games in order to get our spot to the Hasegawa Cup” said Kyō.

“Yeah!” said the boys of Family of Angels.

“Well, Jun. It seems that they are going to follow the rules from the league” said Tomoka.

“After the qualifying games, we will choose the best players for our team” said Jun.

“I second that, Jun” said Kurumi.

“Well, we will use the original roster that we made, but this time, we will adjust some of the rotations” said Jun.

“Yeah. We will have to wait and see” said Kurumi.

“Our team has the same level as Team Aurora and of course, we can meet up with them in the Hasegawa Cup” said Megumi.

“Well, we’re going to find out with the draw and I hope that we’re going to face them soon” said Dairoku.

“Tomoka, I realize that our team will gain our potential to win games and maybe in the end, we will be going to win the Hasegawa Cup for sure” said Hitomi.

“Of course, Hitomi, it’s so great that we have strong players and I believe that Michiko and Dairoku have prepare their body to dominate the game. I mean it’s going to be intense for the qualifying games” said Tomoka.

“Sora, Kōme and Yuzuha, we have to make sure that the players are going to be prepared for tomorrow’s games” said Nozomi.

“Yeah!” said Sora, Kōme and Yuzuha.

“Kyō, good luck with your match against the Dazzled Hearts” said Sakura.

“Yeah. I will be prepared to play once I have the ball, then I will shoot well” said Kyō.

“The Family of Angels will play three games in a day and when we’re winning, we’ll have go back to a united team” said Jun.

“Yeah. And it’s up to them whether they’re going to making it” said Tomoka.

Subaru went downstairs to see Tomoka and her friends sitting at the sofa in the living room. He would announce the tomorrow’s events.

“Everyone! I was hoping to tell you that tomorrow will be going to Keishin Academy for the enrollment. After this, it’s playtime!” said Subaru.

“Yeah, Subaru. Our team is ready to play for the games and I think they’re going to win” said Tomoka.

“Oh, it will be depending on what will be the result of the games tomorrow” said Subaru.

“Yep” said Tomoka.

“And I also have to announce that we, Jun’s Angels, will be permanently staying in the mansion to be with the Family of Angels” said Jun.

“That’s great, Jun! Now, we have them in the group, we’ll going to work together as a team. Is that right, everyone?” said Subaru.

“Yeah!” said Tomoka and the members of Family of Angels.

“Then, it’s almost nine in the evening and after this, we’re going to sleep. Good night!” said Subaru.

“Good night!” said Tomoka and the members of Family of Angels.

“Hey, Tomoka! I think there is something what we have to do while in the living room” said Jun.

“What’s that, Jun?” asked Tomoka.

“We’re going to write our own stuff right here” said Jun.

“Okay! Then, let’s write about everything we need for the group” said Tomoka.

“Yeah!” said the members of Jun’s Angels and Family of Angels. The Family of Angels has finally prepared to play for the qualifying games of the Hasegawa Cup. They’ll be representing one team if they’ll win the qualifying games. On the other hand, Jun’s Angels has finally joining the Bravehearts since they’re members of Family of Angels. It will be a big day to see the Family of Angels have turn thing around from a group of best friends to a team of smile and peace.

UP NEXT: Chapter 28: "In the Presence of A Dragon"

 

[Sherwin Riga]

It's only two days to go before Christmas and I might going to write Chapters 33 to 37 also known as the Hasegawa Cup Arc. By the way, the schedule for the next chapters to be posted are revealed:

• December 23 - Chapter 28: "In the Presence of a Dragon"
• December 25 (Christmas Day) - Chapter 29: "The Miracle Girl Meets the Leader of Blue and Yellow"
• December 27 - Chapter 30: "The Bravehearts' Willpower"
• December 29 - Chapter 31: "From Fireworks to Cherry Blossoms"
• December 31 - Chapter 32: "A Pinkish Twist"

Be sure to check back on those dates! Meanwhile, I will be targeting to finish the Hasegawa Cup Arc on December 31 because it's going to be the end of the year and I wanted to finish it with a bang.:D I hope you will love to see some other schools who will be competing at the Hasegawa Cup. Of course, that's my goal for the end of the year. So, I hope that I may accomplish this before it strikes 12 on January 1, 2018. I hope you are enjoying the ride in this series, so enjoy reading Chapter 28!:)

The members of Team Gremory have a meeting with the fellow members of the DxD counterterrorist team. The secrets about Kurenai, the crimson world, and its nation Nikurenai were revealed and right now, they are planning to battle against one of the antagonists of the High School DxD series Rizavim Livan Lucifer. Also, this chapter will focus about the history of the crimson world known as Kurenai and what will in store for Team Gremory to initiate plans for their latest project. The plan is to create a new planet for the Kurenai System to be created by Team Gremory and its allies.

VOLUME 3: “A CHARMING SENSATION”
CHAPTER 28: “IN THE PRESENCE OF A DRAGON”​

At the Hyodo Residence, Issei and the girls wake up together while Asami Shimizu and Reiji Matsutomo were finishing their drawing. Their drawing is the map of the crimsonworld. Xenovia asked the two of them to join the group to eat their breakfast.

“Asami! Reiji! Come to our group for the breakfast!” said Xenovia, who smiles on them.

“Okay!” said Asami and Reiji.

While walking down to the ground floor, Asami and Reiji talked to Xenovia.

“I can’t believe that it’s been three days since we joined this group” said Asami.

“Yep. I think you’re enjoyed staying with us” said Xenovia.

“I can’t wait to see how your world look like” said Reiji.

“We’ll going to Kyoto next week, but I think we’re going to bring some more things before next week. By the way, I copied the population of this community and we’re going to place it to the crimson world” said Xenovia.

“Oh, we’re going to have the double in that world. On the other hand, the Kikuchiba Academy will be reverted back from the name “Kuoh Academy” when the mirror barrier was no longer used” said Asami.

“That’s true, Asami. All of the things in Omori will be back to normal” said Xenovia.

“Yeah. I think Kikuchiba will be back to normal and things will be different when this area is no longer occupied by demons and the like” said Reiji.

“I think you know about the mirror barrier system” said Xenovia.

“Yes, it is. I asked Sona to know about this” said Reiji.

“I think you’re going to see what happen if this area is no longer occupied with the mirror barrier system” said Xenovia.

“We’re exactly going to wait and see” said Reiji and Asami.

“Well, hopefully, it’s going to be fine if the conversion is complete” said Xenovia.

“Okay!” said Reiji and Asami.

The members of the Occult Research Club, Asami and Reiji were eating their breakfast along with Issei’s parents. While eating, they talked about something interesting for the team.

“How are you doing, son?” asked Ichirou.

“Well, father, I’m fine. We’re planning to transport this entire community to the crimson world” said Issei.

“Oh, I see. So, this town of Kuoh is just looked like Omori and I realized that the two ports of two worlds are very equal to each other” said Ichirou.

“Yeah. It seems that in the crimson world, the world is the same as Earth, but with the inhabitants are mostly Catholics and Shintoists” said Rias.

“Probably, there are occultists in that world?” asked Yuto.

“Uh, yes, there is” said Akeno.

“Since the crimson world was composed of natural-born humans and demons who seek their opportunities to the way of using magic and spirits, people have managed to pass the Trials of Crimson Dragon” said Rias.

“What is the Trials of Crimson Dragon?” asked Reiji.

“Well, okay. These are trials that once made by one of the masters in Kyoto named Nobuhisa Noriyama. This guy creates the Trials of Crimson Dragon to let his community to work on the use of power with their own syncretic ideas” said Rias.

“Back then, it was used to allow the commoners to fight against enemies around them. Forming their community known as the Followers of the Dragon Crimson, their symbolic flame reaches its body to prevent men and women to die from serious wounds and blood loss” said Asia.

“Until now, it still used by the descendants around the country, but of course, in the crimson world, they have that too with the use of Ddraig’s Code of Red. That sacred item was used to make the participants of the Trials of Crimson Dragon to go on a harder challenge, but of course, it’s not easy to get” said Akeno.

“Since the crimson world was created, it was discovered for more than hundred years and we’re the ones who went to the world by bringing the population of demons and angels into just a thousand of it” said Koneko.

“As Kyoto is the site of the ancestors of the Dragon Crimson Clan, they are many secrets and unknown stories were told by the regent and once the creation of a new world appears in the crimson world, we may rise to strengthen to beat the common enemies” said Issei.

“Demons and angels were very common from oneself entity that was ruled by the Great Red. Nowadays, people who were followers of the Great Red have now find their new journeys in the crimson world. Its important areas are located at the Kansai region, somewhere in Kobe. As history goes on, we knew that a great war is about to happen in the crimson world, but time would tell if they’re going to invade us soon” said Rossweisse.

“The land of the crimson was founded in the 1950s when the East Asian colonialists went to space to find the new planet. When they reached to that area, it was made of crimson rocks and of course, there are many elements that are stored in this planet. The name of the planet was called Kurenai” said Orphis.

“The Kurenese begin to live here at the start of their new colonization quest, then a new community was born with people in the coastal land they settled here. The name Nikurenai was one of the first nations in Kurenai. They have the way of life since birth and they were able to preach to their gods” said Kuroka.

“According to the legend, there are many rituals in the crimson world that more frequent to the people of the crimson world like the sacrifice of a lamb and the destroying of stones by using magic powers. Also, the language is Crimson Japanese, also known as Nikurenese, a dialect of the Japanese language that is spoken in the crimson world” said Xenovia.

“The crimson world became more inhabited during the current years after the Great War and the Reconstruction Era. During the 1950s, Japan became more dominant in East Asia whilst China grows their economy and became more democratic in that world. Since the rise of the demons in Japan, there are many secrets in this area and nobody has every kill a demon at the end for that occultism was applied to one person to another” said Irina.

“When I observed the people in this community, there are many people who were born as Shintoists and some don’t have their religion of their own because they have their own tradition” said Yuto.

“On the other hand, Catholics in Tokyo was just 10% of in the southern Tokyo as of today’s population.Of course, in the borders of Ota and Setagaya, there is a Christian community where Jun and others live. They have faith in God and also, they have their own activities just like us” said Ravel.

“The crimson world has many nations and they were been troubled by the Chaos Brigade. The Vali Team was one of the forerunners of forming a battalion that kills many members of the Chaos Brigade. The search for the evil organization wasn’t found yet as some other entities have sought to invade our homeland” said Gasper.

“Wow! I can’t believe that the crimson world has been inhabited by the Japanese and East Asian people who believe that occultism was the strongest religion in this area” said Asami.

“Yeah, that’s true, Asami. The population reaches 70 million people and since the Great War was lasted with thousands died either a human or a supernatural being” said Rias.

“When Japanese enter Space Age, there are new colonies and worlds form and the culture has been diverged” said Asia.

“Right now, the planet Kurenai has been governed by the Japanese government and since this area was protected from the enemies, the Japanese government has the power to defeat the enemies like the Chaos Brigade and the loyalists to Rizevim Livan Lucifer. Rizevim is currently wanted by the Kurenai Anti-Crime Organization as his whereabouts are located in the north of Nikurenai” said Yuto.

“That’s interesting, Yuto. So, the Japans’ name in your planet known as Nikurenai?” said Reiji.

“Yes, of course. Probably, people of Nikurenai were able to speak Nikurenese while others were speaking Japanese” said Rossweisse.

“With the population boom in Nikurenai, thanks to the mirror barrier system, we’re going to have more people to join against the Chaos Brigade” said Koneko.

“Well, that’s about it, ma and pa. I think I’m going to Kuoh Academy with them. But I’ll be back at six in the evening” said Issei.

“Okay, son. Stay safe at home and don’t get into trouble” said Ichirou.

“Okay! Thanks for the food, ma and pa!” said Issei as he and his team leave the house, in order to go to the Kuoh Academy, which was mirrored from the Kikuchiba Academy.

At the Kuoh Academy, Dulio Gesualdo appeared at the gym where he talked with Serafall Leviathan. It seems that Dulio was having a negotiation between East Kusian nations and Nikurenai to fight against the Chaos Brigade.

“Of course, Dulio. I wonder when these Chaos Brigade people would ever invade us” said Serafall.

“I think Rizevim knows about this and I believe that there’s no word for him” said Dulio.

“Oh. I called the other members of the KACO and they said that the Chaos Brigade is currently plotting an attack in Kyumito in Kantarai” said Serafall.

“I see. I thought that they are planning to attack the temples in Kuyo, but they targeted instead the temples of Kyumito. We need to group ourselves in order to stop them” said Dulio. Issei and his team arrive at the hallway of the Kuoh Academy to see Dulio and Serafall.

“Dulio! We found out the lair of the Chaos Brigade in this area” said Rias.

“Oh, Rias. You have just arrived in time to talk. So, where?” said Dulio.

“Located at Kanagawa, somewhere in Chigasaki” said Rias.

“So, that’s where they’re hiding right now. But where’s Rizevim?” said Dulio.

“I don’t know, but I think he’s still in the outskirts of the Reji Mountains” said Rias.

“Reji Mountains. That’s where the shrines are kept in the forestlands in that area” said Dulio.

“Nobody has ever occupying that area until Rizevim and his army of Rizevites form a basement in the colder part of the mountains” said Rias.

“Okay. We need to call the team to know this” said Dulio.

Seekvaira, Sairaorg, Millicas, Sir Zechs, Sona, Tsubaki and Fallbium were arrived through the mirror warp. They joined with Dulio, Serafall and the Occult Research Club as they went to the conference room of the Kuoh Academy to talk about the presence of the Rizevites and the other enemies in the state of Nikurenai. Dulio showed the pictures to the members of the Occult Research Club.

“Now, while the Kurenai Anti-Crime Organization has currently staying in Japan for the spring break before our work back in Nikurenai, the other organizations have begin searching for identified enemies of Kurenai. Also, in Chumire, Jin Amagawa has constructed the shrine in Daunko to spread the occultism” said Dulio.

“Dulio, what is the picture that Jin was holding?” asked Yuto.

“That’s a relic that was found in Nanakun. It’s more like crimson and has alloys on it” said Dulio.

“So, did the Chaos Brigade never found a spot to get the relics in Chumire?” asked Irina.

“Probably. I looked on the Internet to see the actual design of that relic. This relic says that the opening of a natural preservation area like shrines would spread the people to convert into occultism” said Dulio.

“Well, since there are many occultists believe that shrines are their way of preaching, they were able to have faith in the deities, right?” said Issei.

“Yes. I learned from Michael and since we found out that those shrines can be the home of preaching, people in Nikurenai and its neighbours were enjoyed praying to the deities. One of the main factors is that Ddraig believe in the occultists and most of the occultists started to go on a long journey to find shrines in the country” said Dulio.

“I believe that the shrines were created to make it a place for faith. So, it’s true that many of the priestesses went to shrines, in order to do rituals” said Akeno.

“How did you know that the priestesses have done rituals in the first place?” asked Dulio.

“When priestesses do the rituals, they were able to do magic and when it’s done, there are many effects in which either harmful or unharmful” said Akeno.

“Wow, Akeno! So, did you have skills in using magic in rituals?” said Sir Zechs.

“Yes, it is, Sir Zechs” said Akeno.

“Dulio, I believe that there are many occultists have accepted afterlife” said Sairaorg.

“Yes, Sairaorg. When they died, they accepted faith and were cremated to the shrine to bless the dead. What’s more is that afterlife is very important in our lives since they were influenced by Shintoists to follow the process of the afterlife” said Dulio.

“So, Dulio and Serafall, what did you think of creating another crimson world?” asked Asia.

“Oh, great question, Asia. You see, there are many stars in the galaxy and when we will able to create a colony, some of the colonialists will live there while others will send back home to the mainland” said Serafall.

“As what Serafall says, since you’re planning to create a new crimson world, well, I believe that it’s not possible to do that until you have unleashed its true form of creation” said Dulio.

“So, what’s the creation you’re talking about, Dulio?” asked Xenovia.

“Well, in order to unleash the true form of creation, you have the Longinus or the Sacred Gear to have powers. Of course, in order to create a new world, you must receive the Code of Terraformation to the Great Red. It seems that the Great Red has the rights to create a new world, you must go to Kyoto to warp all of us to Kyumito and then, start creating the new world with your power and strength” said Serafall.

“I think that when we’re going to create a new world, it’ll become a new colony” said Issei.

“Yes, Issei. So, there are many things that we have to do when we’re in Kurenai” said Serafall.

“When it comes to sports, basketball and athletics were popular while soccer and tennis are also popular in some regions. Ice hockey is also a sport that was invented by Luoh Academy in Raiki” said Dulio.

“For culture and arts, we have the same culture as the Japanese, but for some reasons, rituals and dances were popular in the mainland Nikurenai” said Serafall.

“For religions, we have many of the Kurenai people who were occultism. There are divided entities to Kurenese occultism: the Folk occultism and Neo-Buddhist occultism. There are few communities who are Christians. There are no persecutions in the world of Kurenai and I believe that angels and demons were existed in that area” said Irina.

“Basically, we were born as humans, but then, there are many choices we have to become. Demons were predominantly existed since there are many babies who were converted to occultism” said Seekvaira.

“In few communities in the world of Kurenai, they accepted Christianity. No community has ever found an Islam community. I believe that it’s very vague to have that. To break this down the communities, there are many lands that are uninhabited and while some colonialists settle there to found communities in Kurenai” said Fallbium.

“That’s very interesting” said Dulio.

“Are politics existed in Kurenai?” asked Millicas.

“There is politics in Kurenai, but of course, since it was controlled by the East Asian Community, there are representatives who were appointed to join the political meetings. That way, Kurenai made diplomatic relations to the EAC. As of now, both communities continue to develop their relationship” said Kuroka.

“Well, both nations maintained their partnership because the current situation regarding the Chaos Brigade is now stable” said Millicas.

“That’s nice, Kuroka. I believe that we are trying to make sure that when the Chaos Brigade is going to invade our land, we need to beat them up” said Orphis.

“Yeah!” said Kuroka.

“Okay, then let’s move on to another topic: the lives of the Kurenese people and how the history goes” said Dulio.

Part 2 will be on the next post.

 

[Sherwin Riga]

"In the Presence of a Dragon" Part 2

Dulio showed the pictures of the Kurenese people during the first days until its current year.

“Long time ago, in the 1950s, people in the Karakurenai Clan begin to migrate to different cities in Japan and then, in 1957, one of the members named Yuichi Karashima have gone to space to find a new colony in the Solar System” said Dulio.

“As you can see, he ended colonizing that area and it was named Kurenai. Then, he settled a community out there and finally, the terraformation was happened 5 years after” said Serafall.

“Thus, the world of Kurenai was born” said Dulio. The members of KACO was amazed to see the first look of the planet Kurenai. Then, Dulio showed the pictures of the first nation Nikurenai.

“Back then, he created the first nation in that planet known as Nikurenai. Nikurenai became one of the growing nations after the Great War. Before the Great War, Nikurenese have created many things and their descendants would learn it when they grow up” said Serafall.

“In the 1980s, a persecution of the fallen angels caused the Great War where the Demon Faction, Angel Faction and the Fallen Faction clash for 5 years. About more than thousand people died including God the four Devil Kings. When we’re born, we were descended from the warriors and also, many changes have been made including different factions who were changing their ways like the Christianity” said Dulio.

“There are 50 nations were existed during the Great War and I doubt that some have been created by colonialists and some of them have been used as a basement to the factions. By then, it was growing until it reaches 500 million in the new millennium” said Serafall.

“In the contemporary history, the Kurenese people begin to find new inventions as also, the existence of magic was being shown to the world of Kurenai. As of now, people in Kurenai know what to do and then, they ever compete for the Rating Games. The Rating Games is a combat sport that they used weapons to beat their opponents with their own sense of magic and power” said Dulio.

“So, is the Rating Games exist after the Great War?” asked Millicas.

“Yes, it is. With the new inventions, the Kurenese people have found their new hobbies and of course, many devils have created powers to use for invasions and Rating Games matches” said Dulio.

“If you look at the picture, this is the place where Rating Games starts with team have to assign their players to different places, in order to start the game. The players from one side have to search the players from the other side” said Serafall.

“Every member must find their opponents to fight with weapons and magic. Whoever the team who have survived the fight after beating all opponents wins the match” said Dulio.

“There are many Rating Games tournaments every year and the world championships are held every year. Nikurenai has been dominant in Rating Games in the first years before other nations like Durelan, Chumire and Kogasan have won the titles soon in the new millennium” said Serafall.

“The Rating Games Committee was founded, and they are the ones who invented the Rating Games based on chess pieces. While the other sports have been existed like basketball, soccer, athletics and so on, Rating Games is the new interest for devils around the world of Kurenai. As of now, it was being popular in Kurenai” said Dulio.

“So, that’s why everyone on Kurenai have many powers and magic where they will compete against each other to determine who the strongest team is” said Gasper.

“That’s exactly what I said” said Serafall.

“Oh, by the way, there is a basketball match between Litucai and Nikurenai in Kuyo next week” said Dulio.

“Hey, guys! Maybe we can watch it in Kyoto and then, we will call the other members of KACO to form the new planet” said Issei.

“Okay!” said the members of KACO and Occult Research Club.

“Now, then, I found out that there’s a group of members of the Hero Organization have been invited to come to our team next week” said Rias.

“Wow, that’s expected, Rias. I think they’re Jin, Basara and their team” said Akeno.

“Jin, Basara and their team? Hero Organization? Well, those members are searching for rivals like us. I thought that they will come for a meeting, but they are currently having some plans to do, in order to battle against the Chaos Brigade” said Serafall.

“When they will be here in Kyoto next week, they will be helping us to find the secrets of the Karakurenai Clan” said Asia.

“I guess that would be nice, but I think they are some of the members who were closed to the seventy-two” said Dulio.

“Like the other factions, they have many secrets and they wanted to keep it. Since we have many secrets, they are some of the hidden files there in the basement” said Rias.

“Of course, there is a shrine that says that it is the home of the Karakurenai Clan” said Millicas.

“Yeah. Before the Great War in Earth begins, many of the members of the Karakurenai Clan begin to war against their rivals and even the Chinese” said Irina.

“On one day, Masateru Hiramoto created a shrine, in order to make this a basement for his group as they retreated to this area. Until now, that shrine was dedicated to the fallen soldiers of Hiramoto’s Army” said Ravel.

“Ah, I think you know about the fallen heroes of Kansai. Right, everyone?” said Dulio.

“Yes!” said Irina, Ravel, Millicas and the other members of KACO and Occult Research Club.

“Now, I found out that the shrine that Masateru used as a basement for his army was the one that my parents know about” said Yuto.

“Oh, maybe you’re born in Kyoto. Is that right, Yuto?” said Serafall.

“Yes. I was born there before I moved to Kurenai where the Holy Sword Project was one of the infamous projects made by Valper Galilei. My parents begin to worry about me and right now, they are planning to go to Kurenai to see me again” said Yuto.

“That’s a sad story, Yuto” said Rias.

“Yeah. I believe that when you saved me, I begin to use the swords in order to create effects on the enemies like Valper, Kokabiel and Freed. Right now, I’m currently waiting to see my Excalibur to be more powerful than the other users” said Yuto.

“Then, we know that many of the weapons have secrets and of course, these weapons have strong powers to destruct anything it gets” said Rias.

“Oh, there are many signs that we used for powering the weapons into more durable time” said Yuto.

“Yeah” said Rias.

“Dulio, since you’re an angel, you have many possessions of the swords, right?” asked Issei.

“Yeah. I decided to keep them in the House of Dragons where Longinus users have to use it when it’s war time. Now, as an angel, there are many Catholics living in Kuyo. Fayu also have a Catholic community where Griselda Quarta and the other KACO members were said to live there” said Dulio.

“In Kuoh, there are many Churches built by the Nikurenese people. One of which is where Asia lives there as a nun” said Issei.

“Oh, I remember that. There are many Catholic leaders have many possessions in fighting against the ruthless leaders” said Dulio.

“Issei, I call you to look at the Church and when you look at the view, it was very beautiful. At my home, the Sacred Gears were placed at the basement” said Asia.

“Hmm. You mean that many of the users have used Sacred Gears in order to have power to beat the enemies. Right?” said Issei.

“Yeah, of course. I’m finally glad that you’re going to help me with my own project” said Asia.

“Oh, I think that your friends know this” said Issei.

“Of course, they would. In Kuoh, there are many people who have preach to have faith for God. While I’m praying, I decided to thank God for giving strength to me everyday” said Asia.

“Yeah. At least, Xenovia and Irina did the same thing” said Issei.

“Yes, Issei” said Asia.

“Serafall, the inhabitants of Kuoh were usually do their own duties like the Japanese did” said Tsubaki.

“On the way of living, people is Kuoh have many things to do inside and outside and while doing their duties, many of them have currently prefer to do Rating Games with their friends” said Serafall.

“Well, that’s what the other members have do train in order to be ready to battle against other teams” said Tsubaki.

“That’s right, Tsubaki. Everyone in Kurenai have interests in Rating Games” said Serafall.

“In Kuyo, there are many Rating Games teams and they were competing to represent the city for the Kurenai Championships” said Sora.

“Right now, Team Gremory is complete with our members of the Occult Research Club are present” said Rias.

“I assumed that when I’m leading the Club, we need some new members for them to join Team Gremory” said Asia.

“Yeah. Our club is hoping to have new members to compete for the Rating Games matches” said Yuto.

“Well, if you’re planning to prepare for the Rating Games matches, your team should be ready to compete against other teams for the qualifiers” said Dulio.

“Okay!” said Asia and Yuto.

“Now, let’s call the leader of the KACO for the report” said Sir Zechs.

“Yeah, Sir Zechs. Let’s call him” said Dulio as he opened his computer to chat with the leader of the KACO named Vali Lucifer. Lucifer was assigned to be the leader of the KACO since Dulio leads Team Gremory and Team DxD.

A screen pops up as Vali was appeared from the computer.

“Vali! It looks like we’re here to talk about the reports about the Chaos Brigade” said Dulio.

“Oh, okay. So, how’s the progress? Where is he?” said Vali.

“That damn Rizevim Livan Lucifer had found a hideout in the mountains of Reji” said Dulio.

“Also, we found out the members of Chaos Brigade have stayed in Chigasaki, Kanagawa” said Serafall.

“Hmm. It seems that they are up to something” said Vali.

“Well, are they going to back to Kurenai?” asked Dulio.

“We don’t know, but I have a full report regarding the plans to invade Kyumito” said Vali.

“Yeah. I believe that we’re planning to fight them as soon as they’re ready to invade the city” said Serafall.

“Of course, Sera-chan. Usually we call everyone to fight against the enemies. I brought some files of the organizations that are allied and rivalled to us” said Vali.

“You see, Team Gremory has planning to go to Kyoto in order to create a new planet outside Kurenai. I think Rias was planning to have a trip for two days and then, going to use the warp to Kyumito to open portals for the new world” said Dulio.

“When the new planet was formed, it will be opened to colonization” said Rias.

“Well, I guess that you are ready to create a new world, but of course, in order to have that, we need the Code of Terraformation and need to use the Longinus or the Sacred Gears to unleash the full form of creation” said Vali.

“Yes, we get it” said Rias and the members of Team Gremory.

“Now, in order to unleash the powers, you have to make sure that the moon must be arrived in Kyoto and then, the warps should be created to open a new portal. Got it?” said Vali.

“Got it!” said Rias and the members of Team Gremory.

“When it’s done, that new planet will be open to colonization, but we can’t colonize this because we’re too early to colonize it. It’ll be best to colonize it when we reach our higher level” said Vali.

“Okay, Vali! For you, make sure that your Sacred Gear will be powered up, in order to create a new portal” said Rias.

“Okay!” said Vali.

“Issei, make sure that when Vali opens a new portal to the new world, use your power to create a gateway to the new world” said Rias.

“Sure, Rias. I have the power to do this” said Issei.

“Dulio, I also found out that the new world should be differed from Kurenai because this world will be leased for 50 years to colonize it” said Vali.

“Okay!” said Dulio.

“Vali, how’s Rumania?” asked Gasper.

“It’s fine, Gasper. It appears that some of the occultists have created communities out there” said Vali.

“Well, that’s okay. I hope that I will be planning to call them to battle against the Chaos Brigade” said Gaper.

“Sure, you can, Gasper” said Vali.

“Everyone! I will be staying with Team Gremory” said Fallbium.

“Huh?” said the members of Team Gremory and KACO.

“What are you gonna do with them?” asked Seekvaira.

“I haven’t stayed with Rias for a long time ever since we’re young and probably, I will be working with her for a while before the trip” said Fallbium.

“Well, then, I hope that you helped them to have their powers stronger when you go to Kyoto” said Dulio.

“Okay!” said Fallbium. Fallbium Asmodeus is one of the Four Great Devils and a strategist in Nikurenai. He has many subordinates to work with him. Now, he will be helping Rias and her team, in order to prepare for the trip to Kyoto.

“Well, I’m off right now, everyone. We’ll see you soon in Kyoto” said Vali.

“Okay!” said Dulio.

“Everyone, I’ll join your team soon and let’s make sure that the new planet will be colonized soon” said Vali.

“Okay!” said the members of Team Gremory and KACO. The screen turns to black and Dulio shuts his computer down.

“When we’re all set to go to Kyoto, we’re going to see some of the secrets and discoveries before we’re going to create a new world” said Dulio.

“Yeah!” said the members of Team Gremory and KACO.

“We will count on us, Dulio!” said Rias.

“That’s great!” said Dulio.

The members of the KACO and Team Gremory left the building of the Kuoh Academy and waved goodbye to Dulio and Serafall.

While going to home, Rias, Team Gremory and KACO have went to the building of the Occult Research Club.

“Fallbium, I think you’re doing great in helping the people in the underworld, but I hope that when you trained us, we’re going to use our powers to open the new world” said Rias.

“Yeah. I believe in the Great Red who gives the blessing to the Karukurenai Clan” said Fallbium.

“So, Fallbium, there are many things that we have to do. So, if you mind, will you join us?” said Asia.

“Okay! I’ll be fine if I will be assisting you” said Fallbium.

“I think he gets his interests for our team and hoping that when he’s in action, he will create powers of darkness” said Issei.

“Of course, Issei!” said Fallbium.

“Well, I’m sure you’re going to love is. After all, in the presence of a dragon, the Great Red, we remain to be determined who we are” said Rias.

“Wow! Did you get that quote from your father Zeoticus?” said Fallbium.

“Yes, of course, Fallbium. We believe that our family is very determined when it comes to preparations for the trip. We’ll make it in no time!” said Rias.

“Yeah!” said Fallbium.

“Let’s go to the building to start working again!” said Asia.

“Sure!” said Rias. The members of the Occult Research Club and the Kurenai Anti-Crime Organization have to do their duties at the building of the Occult Research Club at the Kuoh Academy. With only a week to go before their trip to Kyoto, Team Gremory will prepare their one-week training in order to go to the trip in Kyoto. With Fallbium Asmodeus joining the team for a while, Team Gremory will work out with their powers to use for the opening of the new world.

UP NEXT: Chapter 29: "The Miracle Girl Meets the Leader of Team Blue and Yellow"

 

[Sherwin Riga]

Merry Christmas to everyone in Anime-Sharing! Today, I'm going to post a new chapter for the Rooks, Knights and Bravehearts series! It will be all about Michiko Takeda's first game as a member of the Bravehearts as her team Family of Angels will battle against Team Blue and Yellow, led by Keishin Academy middle school student Naoko Sugisaki. I hope you will love this new chapter! Enjoy!:)

The Family of Angels are in the qualifiers for the Hasegawa Cup and it's going to be a hard match for Michiko Takeda as her team Team Kirihara will battle against Team Blue and Yellow, led by Naoko Sugisaki, a friend of Maho Misawa. When Maho's friends are determined to be winning, they will make sure that victory will be theirs. On the other hand, the Family of Angels have hopes and dreams when it comes to their valiant and brave personalities. This game will be crucial for both teams and the winner of this game will face off against Innocent Charm, led by Erika Satō and Miho Hikasa.

VOLUME 3: “A CHARMING SENSATION”
CHAPTER 29: “THE MIRACLE GIRL MEETS THE LEADER OF BLUE AND YELLOW”

Part 1​

The whistle was blown by Yuichi Uchida as Orange and Fuchsia had defeated Team Kirihara in the first game of the qualifying games for the Hasegawa Cup. The score was 43-42. This means that Team Angels, led by Kyō Nukui, will try to save their group from a possible scenario that the Family of Angels will not represent any team in the second round of the qualification of the Hasegawa Cup.

Here are the members of the coaching staff of the Keishin Academy Elementary School Division Basketball Team.

Keishin Academy Basketball Team
Boys’ Team (Elementary School)
Head Coach
Shintarō Fujita
Manager
Yuichi Uchida – brother of Kana Uchida and a first year high school student
Assistant Coaches
Kenta Sugihara – a first year high school student
Ichirō Satō – older brother of Erika Satō and a second year high school student
Shōzō Eda – a second year high school student
Tarō Kitajō – a first year high school student

Girls’ Team (Elementary School)
Head Coach
Ginga Hasegawa – father of Subaru Hasegawa
Manager
Mao Kayano – a first year high school student and sister of Aoi Kayano
Assistant Coaches
Jirō Matsuoka – a third year junior high school student
Hitomi Hakamada – a second year junior high school student, a basketball player and sister of Seijiro, Shinapachi and Kuni Hakamada
Atsuko Hatano – a first year junior high school student and daughter of Touko Hatano
Ayaka Hikasa – a second year junior high school student and sister of Miho Hikasa

“Are the assistant coaches ready to officiate the games for the next matches?” asked Shintarō Fujita.

“Yes, Coach. It’s my first time to officiate this and of course, in preparing for the Hasegawa Cup, we will have the qualifying matches to determine who will qualify for the main tournament. Of course, different schools in Ōta were either invited to compete for the event or play against each other in the qualification” said Yuichi.

“The girls’ team coaching staff will also officiate the games for the girls’ division. I hope that when the qualification ends, we will determine the four teams to compete to represent for the Bravehearts Group” said Shintarō.

“I heard that Tomoka and her friends are not going to enroll in Kirihara Middle School. They are going to stay in Keishin Academy for middle school instead” said Yuichi.

“Thank goodness! I believe that they are going back for middle school very soon” said Shintarō.

“Yeah. They will be ready to join the middle school team soon. Also, the Kikuchiba Academy will be joining the Hasegawa Cup as they will be fielding the boys’ team since they won a qualifying match yesterday against the Nishina Elementary School” said Yuichi.

“When the qualifying games start, they looked competitive as they looked like. Also, their ace is good. His name is Kyōji Iwanaga, a twelve-year old student and he’s one of the strongest players in Ōta” said Shintarō.

“Hmm. I think that guy was very strong and very high on his potential. His athleticism was so high he can able to deliver assists and score many points” said Yuichi.

“Just I thought that this guy will be our ace’s rival if Naoki is stronger than him” said Shintarō.

“Well, I hope so” said Yuichi.

“According to the schedule of the activities, we will have one day for the first round of the tournament and then, the other day for the rest of the tournament including the final” said Shintarō.

“I bet that the both boys’ and girls’ teams will be playing, but to divide into two groups. The sixth graders and the fifth graders may possibly face each other in the tournament” said Yuichi.

“I think our team will be trying to work hard to battle against the other teams and then, we’ll make sure that they will win the tournament for sure” said Shintarō.

“On the bright side, the Miraku Elementary School had updated their rosters for the boys’ and girls’ teams with the new ace players: Nobusuke Suzuki and Rika Hisayuki” said Yuichi.

“They were very good in shooting, but I guess that they could be also potentially rivalled with Naoki” said Shintarō.

“Ah, I guess that those players are playing with their own potential. It means to say that this tournament will be more challenging than the other invitational cups” said Yuichi.

“Yep. Since they’re preparing to play for the tournament, we’ll see how the tournament runs” said Shintarō.

“Yeah” said Yuichi.

The members of Family of Angels have a short meeting before the games. The boys of Team Angels will battle against the Dazzled Hearts, led by Hideki Eda. The girls of Team Kirihara will play its first game against Team Blue and Yellow, led by Naoko Sugisaki. Their opponents were good in defense and strong in rebounding.

“Everyone! This is it. We’re going to win this match and it’s not going to be an easy game. It will be a challenge and of course, we need those spots for the second round” said Tomoka.

“It’ll be a match that we need to advance to the second round. Every one of us must perform well” said Jun.

“There’s no way out if we lose this game, everyone. When we enter to the court, don’t be afraid and just relax. If you want to win the game, just do your best” said Kurumi.

“Okay!” said the members of Team Kirihara and Team Angels.

“The pre-match discussion is going to short. So, for the boys, we need to lower the opponent’s scoring by using your strength to catch rebounds and steals” said Kurumi.

“Make sure that you have to score many points as many as you can. If the opponent misses the shot, get the rebound. Don’t look over the back after you shoot. Okay?” said Megumi.

“Okay!” said boys of Team Angels. The boys’ team of Team Angels is composed of Dairoku, Shigeru, Kyōji, Masanobu, Ryōta, Shōzō and the new members: Toshinobu Hiyama, Takehiko Ōnishi, Masaharu Hisakawa, Nagahide Aomori, Yasuto Koyama and Katsuji Yoshinaga.

“Rebounding is important and of course, you have to pass the ball quickly. The more you pass to the team, the more you receive an assist” said Jun.

“Boys, your strength are your friends. Just don’t let things go. Are we clear now?” said Tomoka.

“Yeah!” said the boys of Team Angels.

“Now, for the girls, Naoko and her teammates were good in IQ and mind activities. They are likely to detect the moves to steal the game. So, we need Kozue, Natsuki and Satsuki to stop the frontcourt of Team Blue and Yellow. Michiko and Akiko, when the three were guarding, just run until you find an opening” said Jun.

“Right!” said Michiko and Akiko.

“Michiko and Akiko, since you’re the two and the three, pick and roll actions must be activated when you were working together on the court” said Sakura.

“Okay!” said Michiko and Akiko.

“In one possession, you have to be careful with Naoko’s signature move: Fireworks. Maho let her friends to use this when their momentum is now high. So, in order to prevent from doing it, lower their opponent’s teamwork by steal or block. Getting a rebound can slim the opponent’s chances of getting a momentum” said Tomoka.

“Tomoka, can I get the ball once the shot was missed?” asked Natsuki.

“Yeah, but make sure that you have to watch out the fake or distraction” said Tomoka.

“Okay!” said Natsuki.

“By the way, this line-up will be used for the first and fourth quarter. I will adjust the line-up when it reaches the second quarter. Michiko, I need you to push your momentum to use the Miracle Run signature move. Make sure that your turnaround jumper shots are landed in the right aim” said Jun.

“Okay!” said Michiko.

“Well, then, let’s win this game, everyone!” said Tomoka.

“Okay!” said the members of Team Angels and Team Kirihara. The Family of Angels will be divided as they will be playing against their opponents in the first round of the qualifying round for the Bravehearts Group. In order to advance to the tournament, they must win all games to have their team to qualify for the tournament. In the Court #3 at the Basketball Grounds of the Misawa Resort Hotel, the girls of Team Kirihara will be playing against the girls of Team Blue and Yellow. Maho and Natsuhi appear to cheer for their team.

At the court, the five players from both teams were in the positions to prepare for the tip-off. Satsuki and Asumi are in the circle to let Jirō Matsuoka throws the ball into the air. As the ball throws to the air, Satsuki gets the tip and Kozue gets it. Kozue dribbles the ball and passes the ball to Michiko.

“Go, Michiko!” said Megumi and her groupmates.

She would move out of Kanae and she’s about to shoot the ball. “Here we go!” said Michiko.

Michiko would shoot the ball as she does the turnaround jumper. The ball would drive into the basket and the first two points went to Team Kirihara.

“Wow! What a great start to see Michiko’s team going into the lead” said Tomoka.

“Yeah. Michiko never loses her cool since her last game in the district tournament” said Megumi.

“Yeah, that’s true. She hopes that her team will qualify for the tournament” said Tomoka.

Naoko is now holding the ball and she hoped that she can shoot without the defenders trying to stop her. Naoko would move past the two players and then, she would shoot the ball. The ball drives to the basket and it’s a tie ball game.

“Great shot, Naoko!” said Maho.

“Wow! She makes her own move to get past the defenders. As soon as she will perform well, she’ll grow her momentum” said Natsuhi.

Michiko found Akiko and then passes the ball to her.

“Nice pass, Michiko!” said Akiko as she moves out of Hiroshi, in order to get the ball. Then, Akiko was then guarded by Hiroshi. Both feet have touched the key and then, she passes the ball to Natsuki. Natsuki would shoot the three-pointer and the shot was driven to the basket.

“It’s going perfect than it expected. They’re working together right now” said Tomoka.

“Looks like they’re doing very well. I hope that our momentum continues” said Megumi.

Kanae shoots the ball after she gets past on Natsuki. But the shot was missed, and Akiko gets the rebound.

“Go, girls! Run!” said Akiko as her teammates are running offense. Akiko passes the ball to Kozue.

Kozue surprised Naoko as she goes to shoot the ball with the turnaround jumper. The shot was good as the ball drives into the basket.

The next scene is where Hiroshi tried to get points as she dashed right out of Akiko. She shoots the ball with the layup, but was blocked by Satsuki. Michiko gets the ball and she passes the ball to Natsuki. The fastbreak worked as a result of a quick pass by Michiko.

“Hold them tight, girls!” said Naoko.

“Okay!” said the members of Team Blue and Yellow as she forms the defense zone. Natsuki grins as she passes the ball to Akiko. Akiko would do the three-point shot and the shot was good. The score is now 10-2.

Then, Hiroshi misses the shot after the ball goes bounced out of the rim, Akiko gets the rebound. Then, she passes the ball to Michiko. Michiko would do the crossover move and then, gets faster than her last possession.

“So, amazing!” said Megumi.

“She’s getting better!” said Nami.

Michiko would do the layup and then, the ball drives to the basket. At the end of the first quarter, the score is now 17-5. Michiko and her teammates were doing great in the first quarter while Naoko and her teammates were not happy with the result.

The five-minute break begins with both teams were on separate talks to discuss about the situation.

For Team Kirihara, Tomoka and Megumi were giving Michiko and her teammates the water for refreshing.

“Great job, girls! You’re doing great! Right now, we need to keep the lead until halftime. I believe that our line-up was doing good. So, Michiko and Akiko, you will play for the second quarter. The others will be benched. I think they were exhausted” said Tomoka.

“So, according to the stats, we never miss the shot, right?” asked Megumi.

“Yep. We’re dominating the game from the start. So, I need the other three to watch out for the role players from Team Blue and Yellow. Just keep them off guard and then, move them out of the way” said Tomoka.

“Okay!” said the girls of Team Kirihara.

“For the second quarter, Ayane will be the point guard and then, Katsuei and Asami will be the four and the five. Make sure that when they’re on the ball, watch their moves and then, focus on the game. Is that clear?” said Tomoka.

“Yeah!” said the girls of Team Kirihara.

“Alright, now, go get them!” said Tomoka.

“Yeah!” said the girls of Team Kirihara.

On the other hand, Maho and Natsuhi were unhappy about the team’s lack of teamwork during the game.

“It’s not good, girls. I guess we need to adjust the line-up. I believe that Haruyo and Yukari should be playing for the second. So, you will be replacing both Hiroshi and Asumi for this quarter. Make sure that you have to play with your actions” said Maho.

“I need you to power up and we need more points to slim the lead” said Natsuhi.

“All we have to do is to switch places between Haruyo and Naoko. Naoko should face Akiko with both strengths are equal. We’re also going to change the plan. Kanae and Saori, you have to stop Michiko from moving on you or shooting above you. I need your actions” said Maho.

“Okay!” said Kanae and Saori.

“As a sixth woman, I’ll make sure that I will defend my team to win” said Haruyo.

“Okay, Haruyo. Then, let’s get back into the game and start working!” said Maho.

“Right!” said the girls of Team Blue and Yellow.

The second quarter begins with Team Blue and Yellow now possesses the ball. Kanae dribbles the ball and then, she moves past Ayane. Then, she is guarded by Michiko.

“Well, well, well. Do you think you can beat me with your move?” said Michiko.

Kanae thinks that Michiko is trying to stop her, but she changes her mind. “Well, do you think you are surveying us?”

Michiko stopped surveyed her and then, Kanae would pass the ball to Naoko. Naoko and Akiko face each other for the first time.

“It’s them! They’re having a duel right now. Both leaders of two teams” said Maho.

“This isn’t good. This situation is now getting on my nerves. I know what Naoko was going to do next” said Tomoka.

The confrontation between Naoko and Akiko begins with both players are moving back and forth.

“How fast are these girls? This clash is getting intense” said Hiroshi.

Naoko and Akiko continue to clash each other as they move back and forth. Then, when the shot clock is about to run out, Naoko did a turnaround jumper and the ball drives to the basket. The score is now 17-7.

“Naoko did a turnaround jumper?!” said Tomoka.

“Is she doing different from her other moves?!” said Megumi.

“I thought that you’re trying to win for your team, but thanks to the line-up that Maho arranges, you will never be going to beat me with your moves” said Naoko.

“Well, if you want a challenge, then fine! I will make sure that your team can’t able to beat me with my shots I have” said Akiko.

“Okay, then we’ll see about that” said Naoko.

Akiko now holds the ball while Naoko guarding her. It looks like Akiko is trying to imitate Naoko’s moves as she and the latter move to the key. Then, Akiko move out of Naoko as she is about to shoot the ball, but then, Naoko returns and blocks Akiko’s shot.

Tomoka, Megumi, Maho and Natsuhi gasp after Naoko’s block of Akiko’s shot.

The ball went out of bounds after the block where the ball went outside of the line.

“Out of bounds. White uniform ball” said Jirō Matsuoka.

“Akiko’s shot got blocked by Naoko? But how Naoko did?!” said Tomoka.

“Naoko was a great forward who can switch places from being a power forward to a small forward. When playing against an ace, she reads her opponent’s minds and then, she would detect the opponent’s shots by blocking it. She remembered to be a great blocker when she played for my section during the intramurals” said Maho.

“I can’t believe that Naoko can take advantage over the other aces” said Natsuhi.

“If she goes, then she can able to detect moves or shots by stopping it with one hand” said Megumi.

“Since then, she can react with her own aura” said Maho.

The possession went to Team Kirihara and Akiko was confronted by Naoko. Akiko would try to stop Naoko’s moves, but she failed. Then, she shoots the ball, but Naoko tips the ball and the ball didn’t drive in to the basket. Yukari then gets the ball and then passes it to Saori.

Saori would be guarded by Michiko and then, she moves past on her. She would shoot the ball with the jump shot and the ball drives to the basket. The score is now 17-9.

“Way to go, Saori!” said Naoko as she gives her a high five.

“Now, my team is going to dominate in the second quarter” said Maho.

“I think Naoko’s role as a small forward worked very well” said Natsuhi.

The next possession happens when Akiko does the crossover move on Naoko and then, she passes the ball to Michiko. Michiko would shoot the ball with the three-point shot, but was missed as the ball bounces off the rim and out.

“Argh! No way!” said Akiko.

“Michiko is getting tired since her stellar first quarter performance” said Tomoka.

“Hmm. This is not good, Tomoka. I think Michiko and Akiko have been troubled with missed shots” said Megumi.

“I think Michiko struggles and Akiko did the same thing” said Nami.

“That’s right. Maybe this situation is hammering our team” said Tomoka.

Naoko would shoot the three-point shot after she gets past on Akiko and Michiko. Then, Kanae did a jumper on Ayane. The score is now 17-16 with two minutes left in the first half.

A timeout called for Team Kirihara and Michiko is being subbed by Haruko. Michiko was given a towel from Tomoka.

“Don’t worry, Michiko. You’ll be fine in the game when you’re refreshed again” said Tomoka.

“Thanks, Tomoka. It’s getting battered out there. Naoko was good to beat Akiko every time they meet each other” said Michiko.

“I’m sure Akiko and Haruko will have to deal with Naoko” said Tomoka.

“Oh, yeah” said Michiko.

On the court, Haruko dribbles the ball and went to the perimeter where she would be met by Saori.

“Saori, I’m looking you at my observation. Back then, we face each other before when we’re third graders. Right now, I’m going to show you my own move” said Haruko.

Haruko would do the behind the back crossover and then, she moves past on Saori to shoot the ball with the floater. Team Kirihara is now back in the game and the score is now 19-16.

“Great shot, Haruko!” said Michiko.

“Yeah, I believe that it’s my first time to be here on the court. I’m not embarrassed” said Haruko.

“That girl is good in speed. She can shoot faster than her teammates” said Haruyo.

“I doubt that she can battle me one-on-one, but Haruko, I’m ready to beat her out just like I did to Akiko earlier” said Naoko.

“Haruyo, are you sure about this?” asked Haruyo as Kanae passes the ball to her.

“Well, maybe, but we’ll see” said Naoko.

In the next possession, Naoko and Haruko face each other one-on-one. Naoko would try to move out of Haruyo, but Haruko’s speed made the former not getting enough strength to beat her.

“Argh! I can’t do it, but I have to do some other plans before that girl steals my–” said Naoko. She was interrupted by Haruko’s steal as the ball went to Akiko and then, Akiko runs away. Naoko was mad after this and runs through Akiko.

“Now, we can have our run back with my shot” said Akiko, who was happily have the ball.

“Go, Akiko… Hey! Get back!” said Michiko as Naoko stops Akiko from shooting the ball. Akiko would pass the ball to Haruko and would do the jumper. The ball would drive to the basket and the score is now 21-16.

“That girl again?!” said Naoko as she got enraged over Haruko’s performance.

“Come on, girls! You have to work together to get points back” said Maho.

“Okay!” said Naoko.

Naoko would be challenged by Akiko and Haruko, who were guarding her. Then, Naoko thinks about them. “I can’t believe that Haruko was stealing our momentum, but I’m not gonna let this happen” said Naoko.

Naoko would do the turnaround jumper while Akiko and Haruko try to block it. The ball would drive into the basket and the lead is now back to three points. The score is 21-18.

“Don’t lose our momentum, girls! Just group yourselves and guard them!” said Naoko.

“Okay!” said Kanae, Saori, Haruyo and Yukari.

Team Blue and Yellow form a defense zone and Kanae, Saori, Haruyo and Yukari guard their opponents while Akiko and Naoko face each other again.

“What are you gonna do with your offense, Akiko?” asked Naoko, who grins with her plan work.

“I don’t care of what you think you are doing, but I won’t let this happen!” said Akiko as she tries to shoot the ball with the jumper.

“Oh, no, you don’t!” said Naoko as she blocks Akiko’s shot again, but time expires. The first half ends with Team Kirihara leads by 3 with the score of 21-18.

“First half ends. Team Kirihara 21, Team Blue and Yellow 18” said Jirō Matsuoka.

Akiko was relieved because the time is up when Naoko blocks her shot.

“Well, this is just the beginning, Naoko. I don’t mind if you’re trying to stop me. I believe in my teammates as well as my friends and my family” said Akiko.

“So, you’re determined to win. But that’s not going to happen if I’m going to face each other again the last thing I do!” said Naoko.

“Oh, yeah. I think I’m going to teach you a lesson about how our team’s strength can overpower your team!” said Akiko.

“Okay, you’re on, Akiko!” said Naoko.

Akiko and Naoko would stare to each other as the players of Team Kirihara and Team Blue and Yellow return to the bench for discussions.

At the bench of Team Kirihara, Tomoka and Megumi talk to the members of their team about the strategies for the third quarter.

“Haruko, I think you’re doing great after getting a small comeback, but in order to make sure that in order to prevent the momentum of Naoko and Team Blue and Yellow, you have to limit down Naoko’s shooting percentage and then, make sure that you have to steal the ball on her when Naoko is holding the ball” said Tomoka.

“Okay!” said Haruko.

“I trust you, Haruko. You’re going to be great if you’re going to perform well” said Michiko.

“Yeah. I’ll try my best to perform on this game” said Haruko.

“You’re on fire, Haruko!” said Akiko and Natsuki.

“Now, onto the strategy. We’re going to keep the roster as of before. We have Ayane, then Haruko, Akiko, Katsuei and Asami. Now, Katsuei and Asami, I want to make sure that you have the abilities to stop Naoko and Yukari. I need to immobilize them by guarding her. Then, you have to battle them with your strengths” said Megumi.

“Just remember, your strengths are your friends and make sure that you use that to power up for victory” said Tomoka.

“Okay!” said Ayane, Haruko, Akiko, Katsuei and Asami.

“We’ll make sure that Naoko and her teammates will show up to us again” said Michiko.

On the other hand, Maho and Natsuhi have to talk with Naoko and her teammates.

“Naoko, your teammates have tried to maximize their teamwork and it mixed up when Haruko enters the court” said Maho.

“But Maho, trying to gain our momentum from getting down by large points was not hard as it gets. I know you have trained my teammates. There’s something what I really need to get this momentum back” said Naoko.

“Okay, fine. I’ll talk to your teammates” said Maho.

“Okay” said Naoko. Maho and Natsuhi talk to Kanae, Saori, Haruyo and Yukari.

“Girls, if you’re not getting your momentum further away, your teamwork may be destroyed. So, I will be adjusting the backcourt. Kanae and Saori, you’re out. Kazumi and Hiroshi, you’re in” said Maho.

“Kazumi is a shooting guard and I have to move her to point guard position. Then, Hiroshi and Haruyo, you have to work out to beat the guards” said Natsuhi.

“Okay!” said Hiroshi and Haruyo.

“Yukari, I need your help to make Naoko happy. Help her with your mental abilities” said Natsuhi.

“Okay!” said Yukari.

Maho and Natsuhi returns to walk to Naoko.

“They’re okay. I think you’re ready to beat Akiko and her team of angels” said Maho.

“Fine by me” said Naoko, who would turn to her teammates and the team is back to being stronger. “We’ll do it!”

“Of course, Naoko! We will win!” said the members of Team Blue and Yellow.

Part 2 will be on the next post.

 

[Sherwin Riga]

Chapter 29: "The Miracle Girl Meets the Leader of Blue and Yellow"

Part 2​

The third quarter begins with Asami dribbling the ball and then, she went to the three-point line as she is guarded by Yukari.

“That girl is using strength and I know just one thing” said Asami. Asami would move past Yukari and then shoots the ball with the layup.

However, Naoko blocks it. “Not so fast!”

The ball would be caught by Haruyo and she was hoping that her team would get the lead soon.

“I’ll be focusing on my team and my role as a sixth woman” said Haruyo. Then, she passes the ball to Yukari. Yukari was defended by Asami.

“Well, you looked different right now after you have stepped up. Well, I guess I have to do the challenge for both of us” said Yukari.

“Oh, sure” said Asami. Yukari would prepare the crossover move, but Asami stops it.

Then, Naoko thinks Yukari about Asami. “Well, this challenge is different that our confrontation with Akiko. I wish that Yukari will overpower Asami.”

Yukari and Asami would move back and forth while the former holds the ball. Then, Yukari would shoot the ball, but Asami blocks it back.

“Get that out of here, Yukari! I’m stronger than you!” said Asami as the ball went to Kazumi.

“Great block, Asami!” said Tomoka.

“Thanks, Tomoka! I feel that I’m reaching my potential to beat players who would try to score” said Asami.

Kazumi went to the line where she would do the crossover move on Haruko, then she is about to shoot the ball with a jumper, but Asami blocks it again.

“No way!” said Maho while Kazumi, Yukari and Naoko gasp.

The ball would about to go outside of the court when Katsuei gets the ball.

“Great job, Asami!” said Akiko.

“You’re doing again!” said Ayane.

“Wow! You surprised me always!” said Asami.

Katsuei would be guarded by Haruyo, who was trying to stop the former from shooting.

“Darn it! I have to do something else or that girl will steal my ball” said Katsuei.

“Well, well, well. I have to get your ball right now!” said Haruyo. However, Katsuei would snap her thinking.

“Heh! I can’t talk to you trash anymore. It’s time for me to shoot!” said Katsuei as she is going to shoot the ball with the turnaround jumper.

The ball would drive to the basket and Team Kirihara score two points. With 4:54 remaining, Team Kirihara still leads the game with the score of 23-18.

“That was a nice shot, Katsuei!” said Akiko, who give Katsuei a high five.

“That was so beautiful! I can’t believe that you made it very well” said Asami.

“I’m finally ready to score points, girls! Now, let’s win the game for Michiko!” said Katsuei.

“Okay!” said Ayane, Haruko, Akiko and Asami.

Then, the next scene is where Akiko guarding Naoko, who is holding her team’s possession.

“They’re doing big. I can’t believe that they’re still leading the game, but I have to make sure that they won’t get the rebound with my team’s momentum going up” said Naoko.

Naoko would move out of Akiko and then, Asami appear at the key. “You’re not gonna get away with this!”

The members of Team Kirihara saw Asami preparing to block Naoko’s shot. “Go, Asami!” said Ayane, Haruyo, Akiko and Katsuei.

“Go get them!” said Michiko. Asami would block Naoko’s shot and the ball went out of bounds.

“Out of bounds. Yellow uniform ball” said Jirō Matsuoka.

“She did it again! Three blocks in a row! She’s a monster right now!” said Tomoka.

Naoko loses her patience and tries to shoot the ball again as she is dribbling the ball with Akiko defending.

“I won’t lose to those girls for real! I have to shoot this” said Naoko.

“So, you’re giving up?” asked Akiko.

“I’m not giving up, Akiko! I won’t lose to the likes of you!” said Naoko as she would do the crossover move on Akiko and then she shoots the ball with the floater. Haruko tries to block Naoko’s shot, but it came too late as the referee calls the foul on Haruko and the ball didn’t drive in to the basket.

“White uniform, foul. Number 9, shooting. Two free throws, Yellow uniform number 6” said Jirō Matsuoka.

“This is not good. After Asami got her own run, Naoko is playing on a different level” said Michiko.

“I can’t believe that Naoko had adjusted her style of play” said Megumi.

“Haruyo’s role is to perform well with her own style of play, but I think she didn’t warn herself while trying to stop Naoko from shooting” said Tomoka.

“I guess you’re right, Michiko. Maybe she wasn’t losing her cool with that one” said Megumi.

“I think she’ll try to hold her opponents down with her own skills” said Michiko.

“Hmm. I guess she’ll have to focus on her opponent’s play” said Tomoka.

“Yeah” said Tomoka and Megumi.

The first free throw shot of Naoko was good as Naoko shoots the ball well. Now, the second free throw shot was not crucial at least.

Naoko would shoot the ball and the ball drives in to the basket and the score is now 23-20 with Naoko’s two free throw shots are made.

The next possession happens with Akiko facing against Naoko. Akiko thinks Naoko is trying to use her own acceleration. “I’m sure you don’t want to miss this, Naoko” said Akiko as she tries to perform the crossover move, but Naoko stops her. Naoko resisted Akiko’s moves and it looks like Akiko is now struggling.

“That girl is strong, but I can still shoot” said Akiko as she would do the turnaround jumper to shoot the ball. The ball didn’t go to the basket and Haruyo gets the rebound.

“What?! It didn’t go through?!” said Akiko.

“Akiko is struggling. That’s not good” said Michiko while Tomoka felt bad about Akiko got struggled.

Haruyo would pass the ball to Yukari as Yukari tries to stop Asami from trying to block her shot. “If feels that Akiko is struggling. Then, it’s time to end this once and for all!” said Yukari.

Yukari would do the three-point shot while Asami tries to block it. The shot was made, and the game is now tied at 23.

“It went in?!” said Asami.

“Guess you got a mistake when you’re trying to block my shot. I made it so far that my teammates need spirit for us to play with our own moves. You don’t have a chance to beat us with our strong power” said Yukari.

“That darn Yukari! She’s still able to shoot the ball as higher as she can” said Asami.

“Asami, we need to stop them. Otherwise, we’re doomed” said Katsuei.

“Oh, right! We can’t let this happen!” said Asami.

The next play is Haruko would do the crossover move and then, performing a floater. The score is now back to a two-point lead for Team Kirihara.

Then, Haruyo tries to counter it with her own move and then, she moves past on Haruko. She would shoot the ball with the jumper and the shot was good. The score is now tied again at 25.

With both teams begin to struggle, some players missed their shots or received turnovers in the next two minutes. Haruyo would do the three-point shot of her own and the shot was good. The score is now 28-25 for Team Blue and Yellow with 59 seconds left.

“Come on, team! Fight back with a three!” said Michiko.

“Okay!” said Ayane, Haruko, Akiko, Katusei and Asami.

Haruko would dribble the ball as she went to the key and then, she performs fast as she gets past on Hiroshi and then, she called Akiko to move.

“Here, Akiko!” said Haruko as she passes the ball to Haruko. Haruko gets the ball and then, she was confronted by Naoko, who is trying to block Haruko’s shot.

“Sorry, Naoko. It’s not about determination, but–” said Akiko as she shoots the ball with high jump. The ball would drive in to the basket and the score is now tied at 28.

Naoko gasped while Akiko grins. “–it’s all about our pride and willpower” said Akiko.

The members of Team Kirihara cheers for Akiko while Tomoka shed a tear with Akiko finally getting out of her struggling.

“Akiko! You’re back!” said Tomoka.

“Looks like you’re… getting stronger as you are” said Michiko as Akiko reveals her true form.

“She’s so strong and she didn’t even to get struggled” said Natsuhi.

“She’s now more furious than us” said Maho.

“I can’t believe that you’re now stronger than me?!” said Naoko.

“Yes, I am, Naoko. My shots are now easier to score points, but it’s just the beginning. I hope that you might get trailed with my own spirit” said Akiko as she walks away from Naoko.

“Oh, yeah, it’s not over yet, Akiko! I will win for my team!” said Naoko.

“Oh, really? Then, fine. Be that way” said Akiko.

The next possession went to Team Blue and Yellow with Naoko was confronted by Akiko. Naoko looks at the time where the quarter is about to be over with 30 seconds remaining.

“You have a true potential you are, Akiko. But I’m not intimidating you yet!” said Naoko as she tries to move past on Akiko, but Akiko was able to stop Naoko by guarding with her own strength.

“You are going down, Akiko!” said Naoko as she tries again to get out of Akiko’s way. Then, she was met by Katusei and Asami.

“What?!” said Naoko, who was surprised when she saw the two. Haruko gets the ball by after Akiko tipping it.

“Whoa! What a steal!” said Megumi.

Haruko tries to finish the quarter with her team trying to get back their lead. “Go, Haruyo!” said Michiko, Tomoka and Megumi.

Haruko would try to shoot the ball with a jumper, but the ball didn’t enter to the hoop and it bounces off. The time is up and the third quarter ends with the score of the game is tied at 28.

Naoko was relieved after seeing Haruko’s shot missed. But then, she fears about Akiko’s true form. Team Blue and Yellow have gained their momentum in the second quarter, but their players were struggled in the third quarter. The Fireworks is not activated for Team Blue and Yellow.

Tomoka calls the members of Family of Angels a meeting. “Alright, girls. The time has come. Michiko is ready to play again. So, Ayane, take a rest. Haruko will play point guard while Michiko is back as the shooting guard” said Tomoka.

“You know what, everyone, I believe that Team Blue and Yellow wants us the duel that I will be trying to recover from our struggles” said Michiko.

“You mean, your team’s struggles?” asked Megumi.

“Yes! I realize that Naoko and her teammates are ready to gain the momentum. I guess that our teamwork rate is almost higher than them. We’ll have to win the game for sure!” said Michiko.

“Yeah!” said Haruko, Akiko, Katsuei and Asami.

“It’s our own opportunity, everyone. We’ll commit for our friends and Tomoka!” said Michiko.

“We’ll commit for our friends and Tomoka!” said Haruko, Akiko, Katsuei and Asami.

“Michiko, you need to improve your team play and of course, your signature move. Got it?” said Tomoka.

“Got it!” said Michiko. Then, she turns to her teammates. “Everyone, let’s win!”

“Okay!” said Haruko, Akiko, Katusei and Asami.

Megumi sees Michiko and her teammates are going to back to the court. “I think Michiko is very determined to win like she did in the district tournament” said Megumi.

“Yeah. She knows what she wants. It’s her expression of determination. She will be fine if she’s okay to play again” said Tomoka.

“Hope so, Tomoka. I think she’s moving on from her struggles and losses. She’ll be always to be a miracle girl” said Megumi.

“That’s true, Megumi” said Tomoka.

On the other hand, Team Blue and Yellow are doing well in their third quarter, but it looks like Naoko wants to gain her team’s momentum by scoring more points.

“Maho. Natsuhi. I believe that Michiko is back in the game. My thoughts on her was trying to bring her team to win. We dominate the game, but we have to score back to have our lead again” said Naoko.

“Well, I guess that if you want to make it happen, I’ll shift the line-ups now” said Natsuhi.

The members of Team Blue and Yellow were glad to see Maho and Natsuhi adjusting the line-ups again.

“So, Saori and Asumi, you’re back in the game. Yukari, you’ll stay to defend Asami again. Your mental abilities are strong, and I need you to power up” said Maho.

“Okay, Maho!” said Yukari.

“I think that line-up is good, so that we will have to match with Team Kirihara’s five. Is that right, Naoko?” said Hiroshi.

“Yeah. It means that our real battle is about to begin!” said Naoko.

“Now, I was also wondering about Hiroshi’s IQ against Katusei’s IQ. I think you have to deal with Katsuei’s mental abilities. It means that once Katsuei is about to observe her team’s play, you have to do this too. Okay?” said Natsuhi.

“Okay!” said Naoko.

“For six minutes, we need to win this game. Or else, it’s over for us” said Maho.

“We need your strength, Team Blue and Yellow. We’ll show that our game is going to be ours” said Natsuhi.

“Yeah!” said Kanae, Saori, Naoko, Hiroshi and Asumi.

“We have to control the ball and then, shoot with your spirit” said Natsuhi.

“Yeah!” said Kanae, Saori, Naoko, Hiroshi and Asumi.

“Our winning spirit will allow us to advance to the second round of the qualifying tournament of the Hasegawa Cup. So, are we ready?” said Maho.

“We’re ready!” said Kanae, Saori, Naoko, Hiroshi and Asumi.

“Then, let’s win!” said Maho.

“Yeah!” said Kanae, Saori, Naoko, Hiroshi and Asumi.

The fourth quarter begins with Saori dribbling the ball and Team Kirihara is seeing the entire court with their opponents are ready to lock in for their momentum.

“Saori, pass it to me!” said Hiroshi.

“Okay!” said Saori as she passes the ball to Hiroshi.

Hiroshi would be confronted by Katusei. Then, Akiko and Naoko saw the two players facing each other.

“Our plan is Hiroshi has higher IQ than Katsuei. I’ll make sure that Hiroshi will beat her for sure” said Naoko.

“Katsuei is sensing her opponent’s minds and I believe that she will try to steal it or let Hiroshi go to shoot” said Akiko.

Hiroshi would enter to the key as well as Katsuei. Then, Hiroshi would shoot the ball with the turnaround jumper, but the shot was missed. Asami gets the rebound.

“It’s just the beginning, Hiroshi. I need to recover it back” said Hiroshi as she is trying to get her team back on track.

“Assumed that Katusei reading her opponent’s minds, she will have to detect her opponent’s moves whether it’s a success or a failure” said Megumi.

“Oh, how did you know about that?” asked Tomoka.

“I asked Katsuei about her role in playing” said Megumi.

“Well, Katsuei will have to be ready to read her minds and try to detect her opponents” said Tomoka.

Asami would pass the ball to Akiko while Naoko and Hiroshi trade places. Naoko is guarding Katusei and Hiroshi is guarding with Akiko. Hiroshi would read Akiko’s mind. Then, Hiroshi would be able to stop Akiko from moving.

“Checkmate!” said Hiroshi. Akiko was surprised that Hiroshi finally reading Akiko’s minds. Then, Naoko would steal the ball.

“Yes!” said Maho. Then, the players of Team Blue and Yellow run through the court where Naoko would shoot the ball with the floater while Katsuei waits to see the next move.

Asami blocks the shot of Naoko and the ball went to Hiroshi, who would try to move back and then, shoot the ball just like Masami did.

“Here goes nothing!” said Hiroshi as she is shooting the ball with the jumper. Asami would try to block the shot again, but the ball would drive in to the basket. The score is now 30-28 for Team Blue and Yellow.

“She’s using her stepback jump shot and her shot can’t miss?!” said Asami.

“You think you’re trying to block my shot, but then, I finally made my shot with my own speed. My Fireworks move is now activated, and my teammates’ teamwork now gains further” said Hiroshi.

“I realize that your teamwork is now higher than us?” asked Asami.

“Yes, of course. You won’t stand a chance to beat us” said Naoko. Asami growls furiously while Maho and Natsuhi look happy to see Fireworks move working.

“We can’t let them win if we have our momentum goes higher” said Akiko.

“Right!” said Haruko, Michiko, Katsuei and Asami.

Michiko passes the ball to Akiko. Then, Akiko would drive past Hiroshi and then, she tries to shoot, but when Naoko appears, trying to block Akiko’s shot, Akiko would pass the ball to Katsuei.

“Go, shoot!” said Megumi and Tomoka. Katsuei would do the three-point shot while Naoko tries to block it. The ball would drive in to the basket and the score is now 31-30. The lead went back to Team Kirihara.

“Yeah!” said the bench players of Team Kirihara.

“My mind is working with my teammates’ IQ. I would tell you, Naoko. My shots won’t miss while our momentum goes high” said Katsuei.

“So, you’re playing mind games, Katusei? Then, we’ll see who the best shooter is” said Naoko.

“Fine! We’ll see about that, Naoko!” said Katsuei.

The next possession went to Team Blue and Yellow as Naoko faces Akiko one-on-one. Katsuei would read Naoko’s mind again.

“So, Akiko, you proved to be stronger, aren’t you? Do you think our teamwork efforts went better than your team?” asked Naoko.

“Since you asked for it, maybe not!” said Akiko while Naoko shrieks. “Our teamwork efforts were higher than yours and we’re trying to get in with one of our player’s minds detect any move it wants.”

“Oh, yeah, we’ll find out as I’m going to beat you!” said Naoko as she would do the crossover move on Akiko and then, she drives past on her. Then, Naoko would stop her.

“Hmph! Trying to stop me? Then, I will be going to do the same thing to you!” said Naoko. Then, Akiko runs from behind to join Katsuei and both of them are guarding Naoko.

Naoko was shocked to see both of them guarding her. “Two-on-one? Then, I will drive the two of you out of here!” Naoko would drive them out and then, she’s going to shoot the ball with the jump shot.

The ball would drive in to the basket and the lead went to Team Blue and Yellow. The score is now 32-31.

“Wow! Naoko is still strong! So strong she can able to drive both players out of there” said Megumi.

“That’s my Naoko! She can’t stop being excited to play in the game. She’s playing the entire game without hesitation” said Maho.

Akiko would try to be determined while trying to drive past Hiroshi. “Hiroshi, do you think I’m better than you?” asked Akiko.

“Well, you’re playing tricks, huh? Whatever, I’m going to stop you no matter what!” said Hiroshi as she tries to tip in to steal the ball. With both players have clashed to see who the better player is.

“Akiko! Pass it to me!” said Michiko.

“Okay! Here goes!” said Akiko, then she turns to Hiroshi. “You know what, you’re not the one who can stop me, but my teammates will begin our own run like a miracle star shoots above” Akiko passes the ball to Michiko like a shooting star.

“Shoot!” said Tomoka and Akiko. Michiko would shoot the ball with the three-point shot and the ball drives to the basket. Team Kirihara is now leading by 2 and the score is now 34-32.

“Way to go, Michiko!” said Katsuei.

“Great shot there, Michiko!” said Akiko.

“Thanks! I believe that the Miracle Run is working with Akiko in the zone” said Michiko.

“Yep. Then, let’s win!” said Akiko.

“Okay!” said Katsuei and Akiko.

Asumi tries to get out of Asami as she drives her away. Then, she would shoot the ball with the jumper, but the shot was missed, and Michiko gets the rebound. Michiko would pass the ball to Akiko like a shooting star, imitating Akiko’s move earlier.

“She’s getting faster as she could. She is dazzling right now” said Tomoka.

Akiko would pass the ball to Katsuei and Katsuei would shoot the ball with the jumper. The ball would drive in to the basket and Team Kirihara’s lead is now by 4. The score is now 36-32 for Team Kirihara.

“Great pass, Akiko!” said Michiko, who gives Akiko a high five. Akiko grins to Michiko.

“We’re getting closer to win the game. So, we have to keep doing this to the end” said Akiko.

“Yeah!” said Michiko.

“Akiko and Michiko are doing great right now and with three minutes remaining, they will be trying to make thins unstoppable” said Tomoka.

The next scene is that Asami blocks Asumi’s shot and then, Katsuei gets the two points with the floater.

Then, Naoko would try to dash Katusei out of here and she would shoot the ball with the turnaround jumper while Akiko tries to block it. The ball would drive in to the basket and the score is now 38-34.

“It’s getting closer and closer with both two teams trade points” said Megumi.

Akiko would do the three-point shot after she drives past Hiroshi while Hiroshi drives past Akiko and Katsuei, allowing Hiroshi to shoot the ball with the floater.

It’s one minute and forty-five seconds remaining with Team Kirihara leading by 6. Hiroshi and Katusei would face each other. Then, Katsuei see an opening and then, passes the ball to Michiko. Michiko would drive past Asumi and Kanae. Then, Naoko tries to stop her before Michiko would shoot the ball with the jumper. Naoko would block the shot of Michiko before the referee calls for out of bounds.

“Out of bounds. White uniform ball” said Jirō Matsuoka.

“Just out of bounds, girls. We have to keep working to win the game” said Akiko.

“Okay!” said Haruko, Michiko, Katsuei and Asami.

“Come on, girls! Defense!” said Natushi.

“Defense! Defense!” said Maho and the members of Team Blue and Yellow as Naoko and her teammates are working on their defense zone.

Akiko would drive past Hiroshi before she would pass the ball to Katsuei. Naoko was shocked to see Katusei outside of the three-point line. Katsuei would shoot the three-point line before the shot clock is running out. The shot was good, and Team Kirihara now leads by 7, with the score of 41-34.

“Great shot!” said Ayane and Satsuki.

“Finally, Katsuei, Michiko and Akiko are working on the zone. This might seal the game if we keep this” said Tomoka.

Naoko and Hiroshi run in the court while Saori holds the ball. “We can’t let them away with the victory” said Naoko.

“Yeah!” said Hiroshi.

“Then, let’s force them out!” said Naoko.

“Okay!” said Hiroshi. As Saori passes the ball to Asumi, Asami is now guarding Asumi with both strengths collide.

“Only one player can have the stronger body to beat a player” said Katsuei.

Asami is hoping to prepare a block as Asumi shoots the ball with the jumper. Asami jumps high and blocks the ball. Then, Naoko gets the offensive rebound and shoots the ball with the uncontested shot. The shot would drive in to the basket and the lead is now back to 4 points. The scoreboard displays as Team Kirihara scores 41 while Team Blue and Yellow scores 37.

With the final minute begin, Michiko gets the ball from Haruko and then, drives past on Saori. Then, she would be met by Naoko.

“You can’t let your dagger scores through, Michiko!” said Naoko.

“I’m not going to drive away without this!” said Michiko as she would do the behind the back dribble and then, Naoko fell with her ankles got broken. Michiko would shoot the ball with the jumper and the shot was good. The score is now 43-37 with 38 seconds left.

“Naoko gets fallen and Michiko’s Miracle Run dominates the game!” said Megumi.

“Nice shot, Michiko!” said Tomoka. Michiko smiles to her and then, she is now guarding Saori in the next possession.

Hiroshi gets the ball from Asumi and then, perform the crossover move on Akiko. Then, she was confronted by Haruko, but she didn’t matter to ask her, and she is about to shoot the ball.

“Don’t let her shoot!” said Megumi and Tomoka. The ball would not enter to the hoop and Team Kirihara seals the game as Akiko gets the rebound. With thirteen seconds left, Akiko runs to the court and then, she’s confident that her team will advance to the second round of the qualification. As the buzzer sounds, Team Kirihara wins the match against Team Blue and Yellow with the score 43-37.

“Yes! We won!” said Tomoka as the members of Team Kirihara begin to celebrate their victory. Team Kirihara will now move on the second round of the qualification to face off against Orange and Fuchsia-Team Fujisaki on Monday.

“Thanks for the game!” said the members of Team Kirihara and Team Blue and Yellow. Michiko and Naoko would shake each other’s hands as Naoko and her teammates concede defeat to Team Kirihara.

“Good luck on the second game, Michiko” said Naoko.

“Thanks, Naoko! Your performance was not bad after all and your shooting skills are really fascinating” said Michiko.

“Thanks, Michiko. I believe that it’s not only you who is responsible to have her team’s teamwork gain from struggle, but your teammates too have been responsible for that” said Naoko.

“It’s good to be winning, Naoko. By the way, you’re doing great in stopping my teammates. I stopped you on time and this match was very important for both teams since they fought for their hopes and dreams” said Michiko.

Naoko nods and says “I hope we’ll be rooting for your team in the second round. Next time, we’ll meet again.”

“Okay!” said Michiko.

Part 3 will be on the next post.

 

[Sherwin Riga]

Chapter 29: "The Miracle Girl Meets the Leader of Blue and Yellow"

Part 3​

Tomoka, Megumi, Maho and Natsuhi were happy to see both teams playing in the game. Later, Tomoka, Megumi and the members of Team Kirihara met the members of Team Angels, which includes Jun’s Angels, to talk about the latter’s game.

“Jun, how’s the game?” asked Tomoka.

“They won. Kyō had performed well in the game. Their won by six against Dazzled Hearts. They’ll be playing on Monday against Innocent Charm-Team Kanazawa in the second round of the qualification of the Hasegawa Cup” said Jun.

“That’s great! We should have a party tonight!” said Tomoka.

“Yeah!” said the members of Family of Angels. The Family of Angels prepare a party for them as they’re going to the second round of the qualification of the Hasegawa Cup.

At the mansion, the members of Family of Angels were enjoying the party with Jun, Tomoka and Megumi have enjoyed eating strawberry ice creams.

“Yeah! We celebrate our victories for the qualification of the Hasegawa Cup!” said Michiko.

“What a great job in getting our victory, girls!” said Akiko.

“It seems that we have one more win in order to enter to the Hasegawa Cup!” said Katsuei.

“Thank goodness! I thought that we’re getting down, but we have our winning spirit since our rally against Team Blue and Yellow” said Ayane.

“It’s all thanks to you, Michiko, Akiko and Katsuei. You really save our team from being trailed. Our hopes in the Hasegawa Cup are alive” said Asami.

The members of Family of Angels laugh at each other as they were delighted with both victories for the boys and girls except for the boys of Team Kirihara, who were lost to the Orange and Fuchsia.

“Right now, this is our first journey to enter to the Ōta League and hopefully we will win the tournament for sure” said Megumi.

“Now, everyone! Prepare your juices as we toast to the Angels who were blessed and smiled for their opportunities” said Michiko as the members of Family of Angels were given a toast to each other for their victories at the qualifying games of the Hasegawa Cup.

“Looks like you’re all happy with the results, everyone!” said Tomoka.

“Yeah!” said the members of Family of Angels.

“As you can see, you’re in luck to advance to the second round of the qualifying games. Congratulations! And while you’re enjoy your celebration, here are the results of the first round and the matches for the second round of the qualifying matches of the Hasegawa Cup” said Tomoka as she showed the results and the schedule of the qualifying games of the Hasegawa Cup” said Tomoka.

The results of the first round of the qualifying games were shown in the paper.

Girls’ Division
Innocent Charm-Team Kanazawa def. Orange and Fuchsia 39-33
Team Kirihara def. Team Blue and Yellow 43-37
Innocent Charm-Team Satō def. Dazzled Hearts-Team Fujii 48-36

Boys’ Division
Orange and Fuchsia-Team Hayashida def. Team Kirihara 36-34
Team Angels def. Dazzled Hearts-Team Nagatsuka 48-42
Team Aurora def. Orange and Fuchsia-Team Fujisaki 47-31

“Now, you are all here to celebrate the victories you made earlier and despite the boys of Team Kirihara losing, we still have our expectations to advance to the main tournament!” said Jun.

“Of course, Jun!” said Tomoka.

“I can’t believe that we’re ahead of the other teams and by the way, I would be happier if the members of the Family of Angels have performed well in the second round” said Michiko.

“I think you’re asking about the other teams, Michiko” said Akiko.

“Oh, yeah” said Michiko.

“The match-ups of the second round of the qualification for the Bravehearts Group in the Hasegawa Cup are here” said Tomoka as she showed the match-ups for the second round of the qualification.

Here are the matches of the second round of the qualification for the Bravehearts Group in the Hasegawa Cup:

Girls’ Division
Innocent Charm-Team Kanazawa vs. Dazzled Hearts-Team Takenaka
Team Kirihara vs. Orange and Fuchsia-Team Fujisaki
Team Angels vs. Innocent Charm-Team Satō
Dazzled Hearts-Team Nagatsuka vs. Team Aurora

Boys’ Division
Orange and Fuchsia-Team Hayashida vs. Dazzled Hearts-Team Fujii
Team Angels vs. Innocent Charm-Team Satō
Innocent Charm-Team Kanazawa vs. Team Aurora
Team Blue and Yellow vs. Dazzled Hearts-Team Takenaka

“As I was saying, it looks like the Innocent Charm will battle against your team and Team Kirihara will battle against Team Fujisaki. That way, we need to win both games in order to advance to the main tournament” said Tomoka.

“Yeah! That’s why you have to be ready when we face our opponents on Monday. By the way, Michiko and Megumi, you are assigned to play against Tomoka’s team for tomorrow’s All-Star Game” said Jun.

“Yeah!” said Michiko and Megumi.

“So, it looks we’re all set to play for tomorrow’s game, everyone. Then let’s make sure that the tomorrow’s game will be the best!” said Tomoka.

“Yeah!” said the members of Family of Angels. The Family of Angels have finally punched their ticket to the second round of the qualification of the Hasegawa Cup. Now, tomorrow, it will be an All-Star Game between the Bravehearts and the leaders of the six groups composed of their friends in Keishin Academy and the other schools. The determination of Michiko and the valiant expression of Megumi have grown expectation for their team to play against Tomoka and her team that includes Miyu Aida. Tomoka, Michiko and Megumi have plans whether they will team up together soon.

UP NEXT: Chapter 30: "The Bravehearts' Willpower"

 

[Sherwin Riga]

Before you read Chapter 30, I have an important announcement to make.

Since I have to change my old computer for my new computer by the first week of January, the series will be in a break until January 7. However, Chapters 31 and 32 will be released on Friday and Sunday. That means that there will be no interludes for a while. The Hasegawa Cup Arc is not yet finished because I didn't finish a single chapter yet. Don't worry, I will do that by the time I will be drafting Chapters 33 to 37. It will take a week to finish the arc before I'm going to be back on January 7. So, get ready to see some action on the Hasegawa Cup soon.

For tonight's post, I will be posting the first part of the match between Team Bravehearts and Team Kadokawa. Also, at the end of the chapter, you will see Maho's very own Complete Synchronization Skill. Of course, the full name will be revealed on the next chapter. So, sit back and enjoy reading Chapter 30!:)

The day finally comes as the Bravehearts will battle against their friends known as Team Kadokawa to be led by Megumi Kadokawa. The match-up between both teams is part of the All-Star Events for the Bravehearts to prepare for the Hasegawa Cup qualifiers tomorrow. It will be a lot of action to see both teams playing each other in a game that was made by none other than Subaru Hasegawa, the mentor of the Keishin Academy girls' basketball team. Who will prevail in this All-Star Game?

VOLUME 3: “A CHARMING SENSATION”
CHAPTER 30: “THE BRAVEHEARTS’ WILLPOWER”​

On the next day, the Bravehearts and the five teams went to the Recreational Center of the Misawa Resort Hotel where Team Hayashida had just finished their game against Suzuridani Girls’ Academy. They won against them 57-49. Yōko Yamazaki was shining the game with 17 points and 4 assists while Asuna Hayashida scores 13 points and 2 steals.

“Asuna, Yōko,” said Airi as she meets the members of Orange and Fuchsia as they come out exhausted. Yōko was so glad that she beat Airi’s friend Aya Miyakoōji. Aya did a great fight against Yōko. “I’m so glad that you and your team won.”

“That’s right, Airi. I can’t believe that it’s my first time to play against a stronger team since we have our last game against Omori Fourth” said Yōko.

“As always, did your members manage to play every minute?” asked Airi.

“Yeah. It’s so good that we finally able to work together like a team. I feel like happy when I finally showed my signature move” said Yōko.

“Well, you are impressive for showing up against my friend’s team” said Airi.

“Yeah. It simply amazing to see our team show our skills and probably, it’s my first time to battle against a full team as an Orange and Fuchsia member” said Yōko.

“Great!” said Airi, who is ready to play with her teammates to battle against the leaders of each team in an exhibition game between the Bravehearts and the Guardians. Airi asked Yōko to participate in the game. “Yōko, will you be okay to play with us?”

“Oh, sure. But Asuna and I will be resting the first and second quarters” said Yōko. She turned to Megumi to ask who should play for the center. “Megumi, who should be the center while Asuna’s resting for a bit?”

“Well, I was thinking if Miho Hikasa will play in place of your position for now because she’s a forward-center and she can able to block her opponent’s shots” said Megumi.

“Okay. I’m sure Miho will play her game for the first time” said Yōko. She would pat Miho’s shoulders while saying “It’s time to shine, Miho. You’ll be fine if you do this.”

“That’s nice. Kagetsu, I think she will be playing as a center while Asuna and Yōko will be resting in the first half” said Airi.

“Oh, okay. I’ll make sure that when Miho is playing, I’ll be fine to work with her for a bit” said Kagetsu.

“You’ll be fine to defend her” said Airi.

“Well, it depends if I’m ready” said Kagetsu.

“Okay!” said Airi.

Tomoka and Miyu were talking to each other. Miyu had watched her team’s game against Team Hayashida and right now, she asked Tomoka a favor.

“Tomoka, Aya and Rena will not play for your game because they’re just exhausted from playing against Team Hayashida. Will it be okay to adjust the rotations?” said Miyu.

“Of course, Miyu. Subaru had the line-ups and the rotations ready. I believe that you and Himeko will play for the first time with us” said Tomoka.

“Yeah. Surely, I will be hoping that Subaru will give me some minutes to play?” said Miyu.

“Oh, definitely. We’ll work it out for you” said Tomoka.

“Okay!” said Miyu. Miyu and Himeko were part of the Bravehearts’ line-ups, but not for Aya and Rena because they’ve already playing their game against Team Hayashida.

Natsuhi and Daisuke will play together along with the young players like Naoki Hatano and Shun Hinouchi. Hideki asked Natsuhi about their game later on.

“Natsuhi, I believe that we’ll have a match later after the girls played against their friends” said Hideki.

“Yeah. I feel that it’s going our game that we will start our new journey in Keishin” said Natsuhi.

“Yeah. The sooner that we have our skills to perform, the better we have the performance in the game” said Hideki.

“On the bright side, we don’t know if Mr. Ogasawara had the paperworks to be signed by the director, in order let us play in the middle school team” said Natsuhi.

“Apparently, the five of you will play while some of our leaders have planned to join the basketball team soon” said Hideki.

“Oh, really? Are you going to join the middle school basketball team?” asked Natsuhi.

“Yeah. I know that you’re doing well, but it seems that there are many middle schoolers who are vying to join the team since the third year middle schoolers left for high school” said Hideki.

“Yep. As long as Mr. Ogasawara will be letting the five of us join, I’ll let you to form the reserves team” said Natsuhi.

“Really do so, Natsuhi?” Thank you, boy. I hope Tomoyuki will be giving us blessings for us to train before heading to the main string” said Hideki.

“Yeah” said Natsuhi. He and Hideki would watch the two teams preparing to play for the match. The Bravehearts and the Guardians are hoping to play their game with all players have to perform well. “Who should pick to win the game, Hideki?”

“I don’t know, but from what I heard from Megumi that Miho will play in the starting line-up while Asuna and Yōko will not play for the half” said Hideki.

“Hmm. Sounds interesting. It’s not going to have the advantage for the Bravehearts because when Miho plays against Team Fujii yesterday, she is good in shooting and guarding. I believe that Miho is the perfect pick for Team Kadokawa to be the center” said Naoki.

“So, Naoki, I think you’re observing Miho’s performance yesterday. Right?” said Natsuhi.

“Yeah. And to be honest, she had a flight to play against her friend’s team. Although, she will be trying to reach its potential as she hopes that her attributes will power up, she will outclass her opponents” said Naoki.

“I see. It’s going to be a situation to make for Tomoka and her team” said Natsuhi.

“I generally believe that Maho and Saki have the ideas to beat Miho’s playing style” said Hideki.

“Oh, maybe. How did you know?” said Natsuhi.

“In case you know, Saki watched that game and she thinks that Miho was good in defense. I know that Saki had surveyed her friend’s team by looking at the players’ directions. From her team’s decision, they decided to control the game, but it didn’t work out when the game is over. Miho believes that her opponents have strategies to lessen her defense. In trying to cool down Miho’s team, Mieko decided to let her players to watch out for Miho’s defense. At the end, almost all of the attempts were good, but she blocks at least one shot and falls short of getting a rebound when Nobutoki misses a shot” said Hideki.

“Wow! I believe that Miho had to work out of her mind games. Correct?” said Natsuhi.

“Yep. And I believe that Saki and Maho will be playing defense move while Airi goes offense” said Hideki.

“That’s true, Hideki. Tomoka, Hinata and Airi will play for the offense while Saki and Maho will play for the defense. By the time, Miho is about to do any movement, they will try to stop her mind games” said Naoko.

“Hmm. I guess Saki had surveyed Masami’s team while observed Miho’s playing style. It’s going to be a game of Ice and Magnolia” said Natsuhi.

“Yeah” said Hideki and Naoko.

Atsuko Hatano holds the ball while Airi and Miho are in the center of the court to prepare for tip-off. Tomoka, Maho, Saki and Hinata look at Airi to observe on Miho’s playing style. Michiko, Naoko, Risa and Rei are dared to battle against the Bravehearts while Megumi is ready to let her team’s spirits out.

“Ready?” asked Atsuko Hatano. Airi and Miho nod to Atsuko while the other players are ready. Atsuko throws the ball to the air, Airi tilts the ball and Saki gets the ball. The possession went to the Bravehearts.

Saki thinks her team’s plans in trying to stop Miho’s mind games. “All I have to do is to observe Miho’s playing style. I believe that she’s good in shooting and guarding. If she’s guarding Airi, then I have to work out with Airi.”

Maho gets past Naoko and shouted, “Pass it to me, Saki!”

“Okay!” said Saki as she passes the ball to Maho. Then, she saw Airi and Miho battle for their stamina.

“I guess they’re battling for their stamina. I try to find out what Airi is up to” said Maho.

Miho moves out of Airi and she is going to guard Maho.

“Airi is now open, but Miho is guarding me?! Okay, then, I have to do this the hard way!” said Maho. She moves past on Miho and then, shoots the ball with the floater. The ball drives to the basket, making the Bravehearts score their first two points.

“Nice shot, Maho!” said Saki.

“Thanks, Saki! I think Miho had many things to do when she’s on the court. She can move past on her opponent, so that she can switch her place to one another” said Maho.

“Okay. Then, let’s work things out!” said Saki.

“Sure! I can able to guard her once she’s holding the ball” said Maho.

Risa passes the ball to Miho while Airi guarding the latter. Maho tries to wait for Miho to move.

“I think she’s up to Miho’s decision on what to do. Then, I’ll have to work things out” said Saki.

“Airi, it’s my first time to play against you. Thanks to your friends’ decision to sit out the first half, I’ll try to beat you one-on-one” said Miho.

“Okay. Then, you’ll have to work it with my strategy” said Airi.

“Then, what’s that?” asked Miho.

Airi steps back and went to the perimeter while Miho moves in to Maho.

“Here goes Miho!” said Maho as she is battling against Miho.

“Alright, what you got?” asked Miho.

“Well, you’re going to try to get past on me, but I’ll try to stop you” said Maho.

“Trying to dare a match with that girl that makes me confused. But I have to do this” said Miho, who was thinking about having a match against Maho. Miho would move past Maho, and then shoots the ball with the floater. The ball drives in to the basket and score is now tied at 2.

“She’s not using her mind games while thinking moving out of my way?!” said Maho. Miho walks to Maho.

“I didn’t mean to use my mind games, but all I have is to observe the team’s movement, but of course, desiring to guard a forward can make me decide whether to pass, move or shoot” said Miho.

“Then, when you come out to battle me, I’m going to show you some skills to make” said Maho.

“Okay. Bring it on!” said Miho.

Tomoka passes the ball to Hinata. Then, Hinata passes the ball to Saki. Michiko guards Saki while Maho and Airi will try to work on Miho’s play.

“Saki, pass it to me!” said Airi as she moves out of Miho.

“Okay, catch!” said Saki as she throws the ball to Airi. Then, as Airi is about to shoot, Miho appears, trying to block her shot.

“Hmm. Trying to destroy my strategy, then I have to do something else” said Airi as she shoots the ball with the hook shot instead of the jump shot. The ball drives in to the basket. The Bravehearts went to score another two points.

“Wow! It’s not a floater, but it’s a hook shot she can shoot when her opponent sees her trying to shoot with the jump shot, but she had her own style to make” said Kagetsu.

“I believe that Airi is improving her shooting since the last time she played against Team Katayama” said Hiiragi.

Airi removes her sweat from her head and walks away. “My shots can be created whenever I choose the direction. I wonder when you will do that move with your arms stretched.”

Miho had to keep her role while trying to look at her team, who were guarding against her opponents. Michiko faces Tomoka one-on-one as they’re playing against each other for the first time.

“Tomoka, I know that you’re strong, but since we have the same level, we’ll see who the strong ace is” said Michiko.

“Okay, Michiko. I have to be clear that we’ll decide instead of just asking me like that” said Tomoka.

“Oh, sure” said Michiko. Michiko would begin to do her moves before Tomoka catches up to her. Then, Michiko sees Risa without her opponent, but saw Saki joins Tomoka to double team. Maho guards Risa.

“Double team? Then, I’ll shoot like this” said Michiko as she steps back and creates a three-point shot. Then, her shot was missed when the ball bounces off from the rim. “Not good!” Risa gets the ball while Saki went to Risa.

“I have to stop as a defender, Risa” said Saki.

“Then, I’ll pass it to someone else” said Risa as she passes the ball to Michiko.

Michiko would shoot the ball with the jump shot.

“Oh no, you don’t!” said Tomoka, who sees the ball bouncing off from the rim and catches the ball.

“I can’t believe that she’s so good” said Michiko, seeing Tomoka being a carefree player who can get the rebound.

“Catch, Saki!” said Tomoka as she throws the ball to Saki.

“Thanks!” said Saki, then she and Airi are about to perform the alley-oop. “Then, this is what we do with our shot going in!”

Saki throws the ball to Airi and she dunks it while Miho sees that move. The score is now 6-2 for the Bravehearts.

“Nice alley-oop, Saki, Airi!” said Maho.

“Thanks, Maho! It’s not about shooting at high altitude, but using my strength to dunk the ball” said Airi.

“Yeah! It was fun to do the moves all along” said Saki.

“Now, we have to keep the lead” said Maho.

“Yeah!” said Saki and Airi.

The next possession went to Team Kadokawa when Michiko dribbles the ball and Tomoka confronts her again.

“This is harder than I thought. I believe that they’re doing greatly. I have to do something different” said Michiko. She would perform the crossover move on Tomoka and then, she moves past on her. She would shoot the ball with the floater and the ball drives in to the basket. The score is now 6-4.

“Whoa! Michiko can able to drive out on Tomoka?” said Mimi.

“Michiko is seeing her struggles before, but she did it on her friend?!” said Megumi.

“Possibly she didn’t change her level yet” said Masami.

“You don’t know what I am doing. I have to shoot as many as I can while I have to use my body to power my strength. I can able to move as any direction I can do” said Michiko.

“You really seemed to be stronger, but I have my strength to shoot. I can do anything I want and also, I will win this battle for sure! Michiko, I’m very confident to battle you because you’re my friend who likes to play basketball with me. I can’t lose to a friend like you!” said Tomoka.

Michiko was shocked about Tomoka’s words because she had a willpower to help her team while she’s in Keishin Academy girls’ basketball club.

“Okay, then show me with your strength, Tomoka!” said Michiko.

“Okay!” said Tomoka.

The next scene is when Saki was guarded by Risa while seeing her teammates being guarded also. Then, Saki saw Tomoka running and prepared to pass the ball to her. “Tomoka, catch!” said Saki.

“Okay!” said Tomoka as Saki passes the ball to Tomoka and then, Michiko was following Tomoka.

Then, Tomoka would do the floater while jumping higher as she can. The ball drives to the basket and the score is now 8-4.

“Nice shot, Tomoka!” said Saki.

“Thanks, Saki!” said Tomoka while Michiko saw Tomoka’s potential getting higher. She thinks that Tomoka’s willpower to her team was stronger.

Then, Naoko passes the ball to Risa, who runs to the key and shoots the ball with the jump shot. But the shot was missed and Maho gets the rebound. “I’ll get it!”

Maho would pass the ball to Tomoka while Michiko and Saki run to the low post area.

As Michiko tries to steal the ball on Tomoka, Saki calls Tomoka to get the ball. “Tomoka, pass it to me!”

“Okay, Saki!” said Tomoka as she passes the ball to Saki while Michiko left her role to catch up with Saki.

“Alright, Saki, let’s battle!” said Michiko, declaring that she engages a rivalry with Saki.

“Okay!” said Saki as she starts to battle against Michiko with their moves getting faster. Then, Saki moves past on Michiko and Risa tries to stop her. Saki would fake the ball before shooting the ball with the jump shot.

Naoko would block Saki’s shot with her own jumping skill. “What?!” said Saki. The ball when to Rei, stopping the Braveheart’s momentum. With three minutes remaining, the Bravehearts are led by four points.

Rei would pass the ball to Michiko and Tomoka and Hinata guard Michiko. “This is getting serious! Trying to stop me with their power. Well, I have to do this right away” said Michiko. Michiko would pass the ball to Miho and then, Airi tries to jump to block Miho’s shot.

“You’re not getting away with this!” said Airi as Airi blocks Miho’s shot and then, the ball went to Hinata. Hinata and Rei would meet each other as they were going to the outside of the three-point area.

“Get it, Maho!” said Hinata.

“Okay!” said Maho as Hinata passes the ball to Maho while Naoko was guarding Maho with her strength.

“When she tries to face off against the offender, she will have to decide to steal it or steer her gear to stop her opponent” said Megumi, talking about Naoko’s strength.

“Hmm. She’s tougher than I thought” said Maho.

“Are you giving up?” asked Naoko.

“No, I can’t! I will try to get past on you!” said Maho as she tries to stop Naoko, but Naoko was stronger enough to guard Maho. They went to the restricted area, then Maho tries to shoot the ball with the fadeaway jump shot, but Naoko tilts it and the ball didn’t went to the basket as it was bounced off from the rim and out.

“I’ll get this!” said Airi as she tries to recover the ball, but Miho jumps and gets the ball over Airi. “Ah! She’s strong!”

Miho enters to the three-point area and then, she moves past on Maho, but Tomoka confronts Miho.

“I’m not going to let you shoot!” said Tomoka.

“Look out, Tomoka!” said Hinata as Miho tries to perform a floater over Tomoka. Miho jumps high to shoot the ball to do the floater while Tomoka tries to block Miho’s shot. The ball was squatted when Tomoka blocks Miho’s shot. The ball went to Hinata, who runs in the court.

“Wow! Tomoka blocked Miho’s shot with her strength?!” said Tsubaki.

“Tomoka is gaining her momentum while trying to stop Miho from shooting a floater” said Kagetsu.

“Miho is now in troubled with her missed shots” said Hiiragi.

“I believe that Tomoka’s willpower makes her team more powerful” said Masami.

“I think Tomoka wished last night that she will help us to win the game and she also wished that she will be stronger like her friends” said Mimi.

“You really think Tomoka gets her high potential?” asked Kagetsu.

“Yeah. And to think of it, Tomoka will finally use her Shiny Gift soon” said Mimi.

“Ah, that’s what she wished for us last night” said Kagetsu.

“Yeah!” said Mimi.

Hinata would drive past on Rei and then, she was confronted by Michiko. Then, she sees Saki without her opponent. “Alright, catch, Saki!” Hinata throws the ball and Saki catches it.

“Thanks, Hinata!” said Saki as she is going to shoot a three-point jump shot. The ball drives in to the basket and the score is now 11-4.

“Nice shot, Saki!” said Tomoka.

“Great shot you got, Saki!” said Maho.

“You’re growing your three-point skills!” said Hinata.

“You’re getting stronger!” said Airi.

“Thanks, girls! I believe that we’re growing our potential right now!” said Saki.

“Of course, Saki! It means that we’re hopefully going to have the Complete Synchronization Skill” said Tomoka.

“Yeah, we should do that, but for now, we need to finish the first quarter” said Saki.

“Okay!” said Tomoka, Maho, Airi and Hinata.

Michiko would get the ball after Risa gets it. Then, she moves past Tomoka and passes the ball to Rei.

Rei would shoot the ball with the layup and the ball drives to the basket. The score is now 11-6.

Then, Airi moves past on Miho before passes the ball to Hinata to shoot the ball. The shot was good, and the score is now 13-6.

With forty seconds remaining in the first quarter, Hinata guards Rei, who is currently holding the ball. “I think Rei has boosted her powers when she’s doing her moves. I think she can deflate her opponents’ moves” said Hinata.

“Okay, I’m going to get past on you” said Rei as she moves past on Hinata and then, she is about to shoot the ball, but Maho jumps high to prepare for the block. “Oh no, you don’t!” Rei would do the fake and then, she steps back to shoot the ball with the fadeaway jumper. The shot was good, and the score is now 13-8.

“They traded points and Tomoka’s willpower is now working” said Tsubaki.

“But remember about Miho’s mind games. This is going to be more dared than the last game against Himeko’s team” said Hiiragi.

Saki would pass the ball to Tomoka and then, she moves past on Michiko, then Rei and does the floater. The ball would drive in to the basket and the time is up. The score is now 15-8 for the Bravehearts.

“End of first quarter. Team Bravehearts 15, Team Kadokawa 8” said Atsuko Hatano.

Tomoka, Maho, Saki, Airi and Hinata returns to the bench while Subaru impresses their performance. “Nice performance, everyone!” said Subaru.

“Yeah, I believe that we’re doing great in shooting and guarding. But as you all know, I was worrying about Miho’s playing style” said Tomoka.

“Oh, Miho is not using her signature move yet?” asked Subaru.

“Yeah” said Tomoka.

“She did very well when she tried to stop me, but what I know is that she used the Dazzled Copy” said Airi.

“Hmm. That seems to be the point she copies moves, right?” said Subaru.

“Yeah!” said Tomoka, Maho, Saki, Airi and Hinata.

“Especially when she jumps high like Kagetsu did” said Saki.

“Actually, Miho was a forward and a center, she can able to power up her acceleration and her stamina. Unlike Kagetsu, Miho has a lot of strength to do her moves” said Hinata.

“That’s right, Hinata. So, we need a line-up for the second quarter to match up with Miho’s team” said Subaru.

“Let’s see. Kagetsu and Mimi should be in while Masami, Miyu and Himeko will also join too” said Airi.

“However, Tsubaki and Hiiragi must be in the game as well, Subaru” said Maho.

“Okay, girls. I will be fixing this” said Subaru.

While Subaru tries to adjust the line-ups for the second quarter, Megumi Kadokawa talks to her team.

“I was very expected to see you performing hard. I believe that you’re doing great. But for some reason, you’re having the same level with them” said Megumi.

“So, how are we going to beat them with Miho on the court?” asked Michiko.

“Well, I’ll let Mieko, Michiko and Aya going to the court as backcourt players while I’ll be playing on the frontcourt with Miho. Is that okay to you?” said Megumi.

“Okay. But as far as you all know, Miho needs good strength and while Asuna and Yōko are resting” said Michiko.

“Yeah, Megumi. I think you and Miho will have to work out on the offense to defeat Tomoka’s team” said Rei.

“I believe that Tomoka’s team has willpower to help their teammates to win” said Naoko.

“Are you going to do it, Megumi?” asked Risa.

“Okay, girls. I’ll do it” said Megumi. Michiko, Rei, Naoko and Saki were glad to see Megumi playing. Then, Megumi turned to Mieko, Michiko Nobutoki, Aya and Miho. “Then, let’s do this, girls!”

“Yeah!” said Mieko, Michiko Nobutoki, Aya and Miho.

While Mieko, Michiko Nobutoki, Megumi, Aya and Miho went to the court for Team Kadokawa, Masami, Miyu, Mimi, Himeko and Kagetsu enters to the court for the Bravehearts. Kagetsu would meet Miho for the first time in the game.

“Well, Miho, it looks like you are here to battle me” said Kagetsu.

“Are you ready to show up?” asked Miho.

“Yeah, I’m fine with that, Miho” said Kagetsu.

“I hope that our encounter last until the end of the game” said Miho.

“Of course, Miho. Then, let’s do it!” said Kagetsu.

Part 2 will be on the next post.

 

[Sherwin Riga]

"The Bravehearts' Willpower" Part 2

The second quarter begins with Michiko Nobutoki passes the ball to Mieko. Masami confronts and guards Mieko.

“How do you feel you battle against me?” asked Mieko.

“Mieko, I’m confident right now to battle me and of course, I’m currently observing you” said Masami.

“Okay, then, we’ll see who has good strength” said Mieko.

“Well, bring it on, Mieko!” said Masami. Mieko and Masami begin to clash each other with their moves and then, Mieko would perform the crossover move on Masami, but Masami still stops her. Then, Mieko would perform the three-point shot as she moves back and then, shoots the ball. The ball drives in to the basket. The score is now 15-11.

“Wow! You’re a good three-point shooter, Mieko. That way, you can shoot three-point jumpers too!” said Masami.

“Of course, I am. But can you do it with your strength?” said Mieko.

“Yeah. I will be happier if you dare to challenge me for the shootout?” said Masami.

“Okay, good. Then, let’s battle!” said Mieko.

“Okay!” said Masami.

The next possession went to the Bravehearts with Miyu battling against Megumi. Megumi had a lot of strength to give to her teammates.

“Megumi, it’s our first time to battle since I’m a middle school right now” said Miyu.

“Yeah” said Megumi.

“Now that Tomoka and her friends will stay in Keishin, so that our rivalry with them will continue to middle school, there are no more conflicts in your team right now” said Miyu.

“Yeah, but to think of it, Akiko and Michiko have decided to rival with us when we’re going to have the future tournaments to participate soon” said Megumi.

“Hmm. Sounds like you’re hoping for the future” said Miyu. Then, Kagetsu doesn’t have her opponent. “I guess it’s time for real challenge, Megumi!” Miyu passes the ball to Kagetsu.

“Okay, here I come!” said Kagetsu as she shoots the ball with the jump shot. Then, the ball drives in to the basket and the score is now 17-11.

“Great shot, Gettan!” said Tsubaki.

“Looks like I’m getting confident to win, Megumi. I’m going to dominate the game with our moves to get in” said Kagetsu.

“See, I told you, Megumi, not all of my teammates are rivals to me, but they’re my friends” said Miyu.

Then, a lot of scenes happen when both teams trade their shots. Nobutoki would shoot the ball with the layup, followed by Mimi shoots the turnaround jumper over Nobutoki. The score is now 19-13.

Mieko would run to the low post area where she was met by Masami. Masami would battle against Mieko as she tried to use her strength to guard her. Then, Mieko turns to see an opening where Miho was there. “Catch, Miho!” Mieko throws the ball on Miho, but Himeko snatches it.

“Great steal, Himeko!” said Tomoka.

‘Go for it!” said Saki.

“I’m on it!” said Himeko as the other players run to follow Himeko.

‘It’s a fast break!” said Maho. Himeko would try to shoot the ball with the layup, but Aya Shimōjo blocks the shot.

“What?!” said Himeko and the ball went to Mieko. Mieko would pass the ball to Megumi, who would perform the three-point shot. The ball would drive in to the basket and the score is now 19-16 with the lead trims to three points.

“Looks like Team Kadokawa is starting to shoot three-point shots. I think we need our players to score three points as well” said Subaru.

“Yeah!” said Tomoka, Maho, Saki, Airi, Hinata, Tsubaki and Hiiragi.

“Did you hear that, girls? I think we should do three-point shots as well” said Mimi.

“Okay!” said Masami, Miyu, Himeko and Kagetsu.

“This is crucial, Hideki. I believe that three-point shots are the hardest moves they can make” said Naoki.

“Yep. I think these girls are ready to clash for three-point shots” said Hideki.

“Of course, boys. Masami and Mieko are good in three-point shooting skills, I think they’re going to prepare for some action to catch up many points as they can” said Natsuhi.

“You really think so?” asked Naoki.

“Yeah” said Natsuhi.

Masami would shoot the ball over Nobutoki and the shot was good with the score is now 22-16.

Megumi would drive past on Himeko and then, performs a layup. The score is now 22-18.

Kagetsu would drive past on Miho and then passes the ball to Masami, who would perform the three-point shot. The shot was good, and the score is now 25-18.

Megumi would perform the three-point shot after Aya Shimōjo performs the fake on Mimi. The score is now 25-21.

With three minutes remaining, Miyu battles against Nobutoki and then, she tries to shoot the ball with the jump shot, but the shot was missed when it bounces off from the rim. Miho recovers it and then, passes the ball to Aya Shimōjo.

Aya would prepare the crossover move on Himeko, followed by a jump shot, which is counted as two points. The score is now 25-23 with Team Kadokawa needs to tie the game.

The next possession went to the Bravehearts. Miyu tries again in trying to score points. She was defended by Michiko Nobutoki and then, she drives past on her and then, shoots the ball with the jump shot on the key. The ball would drive in to the basket and the score is now 27-23.

“Great shot, Miyu!” said Maho.

“Nice shot, Miyu!” said Tsubaki and Hiiragi. Miyu smiles on her friends after she did it.

“Going neck and neck, both teams are going to grab many points while more rebounds getting up for them” said Saki.

Masami gets the rebound after Aya Shimōjo misses the shot. Then, Megumi gets the rebound after Mimi misses the shot.

Megumi would perform the three-point shot after she performed the crossover move on Mimi, but the shot was missed.

“Oh no, they have to recover the ball before their opponents catch it” said Megumi. Aya Shimōjo gets the offensive rebound and then, shoots the ball with the layup and the score is now 27-25. “Good grief, at least we score two.”

Kagetsu would dribble the ball as she is going to pass the ball to Mimi. Mimi prepares to unleash her true form as she gets the ball from Kagetsu. Then, she would do the turnaround jumper to score two points for the Bravehearts.

“Wow! She’s starting to glow like an aurora” said Saki.

“I think Mimi is going to unleash her aurora to do the Aurora Age” said Tomoka.

“Oh, I believe that she is ready to use her speed and strength to dominate the game” said Hinata.

Airi nodded happily. “I think she’s now ready to shoot easily” said Airi.

“Yeah, Airi. She’ll show her team’s pride for them to win the match” said Maho.

After Aya Shimōjo made the shot by using the turnaround jumper, the Bravehearts are ready to have the Complete Synchronization Skill. The score is now 29-27.

Kagetsu now runs to the court while dribbles the ball and Miho is guarding her. “So, I think we’re getting stronger with our momentums are up” said Kagetsu.

“Yeah. It seems that we’re reaching the final minute of the half. I think I’m about to glow like Mimi did’ said Miho.

“You think so?” asked Kagetsu.

“Yeah” said Miho as she and Kagetsu would continue to move back and forth until Masami is in the key.

“Catch, Masami!” said Kagetsu as she throws the ball and Masami catches it.

“Thanks!” said Masami as she would do the floater to score two points. The score is now 31-27.

With only a minute remaining, both teams have totrade points before half time. Miho would drive past on Kasgetsu and then, shoots the ball with the floater. The score is now 31-30.

“Yes!” said Michiko.

“You can do it!” said Naoko.

“Miho is getting stronger like yesterday” said Risa.

“Nobody stops her from shooting inner shots in the paint” said Rei.

Mimi gets the ball from Miyu and then drives past on Megumi. She would shoot the ball with the turnaround jumper. “We will unleash the aurora to score more points in the game” said Mimi as the ball drives in to the basket. The score is now 33-30.

“We only have twenty seconds remaining to tie the game. So, let’s shoot a three, girls!” said Megumi.

“Yeah!” said Mieko, Michiko Nobutoki, Aya Shimōjo and Miho.

Miho passes the ball to Mieko and then, Miyu and Masami confronted Mieko. “Now, this is getting bad. But I’ll have to do this the hard way” said Mieko as she passes the ball to Miho. Miho would perform the three-point shot and the shot was counted as the score is now tied at 33. The buzzer has been sounded as the first half is over with both teams return to the bench.

“Great job, girls! I think it’s going to be a heated rivalry between Miho’s team and our team. Of course, this is going to be different than other opponents like Suzuridani” said Subaru.

“Yeah” said Mimi, Masami, Kagetsu, Miyu and Himeko.

“At least we have our chances to perform the Complete Synchronization Skill, but also, Mimi’s own version is about to glow because we performed well in the second quarter. It’s going to be crucial if we get into this point that Miho and Megumi have working together against us” said Miyu.

“Of course, there could be some changes what they made since Miho is currently in the game” said Masami.

“Since Miho is good in stamina, all we have to do is to weaken it. Even Asuna and Yōko will be coming to the court later on, we need some of our girls to have good stamina and flexibility” said Kagetsu.

“Yeah. I think it’s time to adjust the line-up for the third quarter” said Mimi.

“Of course!” said Subaru. Then, the members of the Bravehearts have some things to do regarding the line-ups for the third quarter.

“So, what’s the plan?” asked Himeko.

“Well, we think that Miho is good in shooting and guarding. Also, she can capitalize her play by making inside shots” said Aoi.

“So, I need Tsubaki and Hiiragi to enter the game. Then, Kagetsu, you’ll be with Miho to guard her” said Subaru.

“Okay!” said Kagetsu.

“Now, all we have left is two of our players to observe the opponents like Asuna and Yōko” said Subaru. “I think Saki and Tomoka will be playing in the fourth quarter. So, Maho and Hinata, you’re in for the third quarter.”

“Okay!” said Maho and Hinata.

“Airi, you’ll play in the fourth quarter along with Tomoka and Saki” said Subaru.

“Okay!” said Airi.

“Now, in order to make sure that Miho is immobilized, Hiiragi should play point guard and then, Hinata will be playing shooting guard. That means that you have to use the Innocent Charm and the Double Mean Play moves immediately” said Subaru.

“Okay!” said Hiiragi and Hinata.

“Maho, you’ll be playing against Megumi. I think Megumi is good in shooting three-point shots, so I want you to stop it” said Subaru.

“Okay!” said Maho.

“Tsubaki and Kagetsu, you will play against Asuna and Miho. Also, when Yōko is playing, Tsuba, use your Double Mean Play move. Okay?” said Subaru.

“Okay!” said Tsubaki.

“Kagetsu, since Miho is still playing, you have to watch out on jumping and shooting. She’s a great jumper and she can able to block shots as high as she can. All you have to do is to jump like her to block her shot or use your strength to beat her” said Subaru.

“Okay!” said Kagetsu.

“I knew you can count on you, girls. So, let’s win this game!” said Subaru.

“Yeah!” said the members of the Bravehearts.

On the other hand, Team Kadokawa had some plans in the third quarter where Megumi Kadokawa had her team adjusted for the third quarter.

“Alright, everyone. It seems that the Bravehearts have adjusted their lineup. Anyway, I will still play for the third quarter along with Miho. Asuna, Yōko, you will be playing for the third quarter. And of course, I will let Risa playing for the third quarter” said Megumi.

“So, what’s the lineup will be?” asked Naoko.

“It will be Risa on the point guard, I will be on the small forward, Yōko on the shooting guard, Asuna on the power forward and Miho on the center. Understand?” said Megumi.

“Yes!” said Risa, Yōko, Asuna and Miho.

“Since Miho is not losing her stamina ever since she played hard in the yesterday’s game against Team Fujii, she can’t resist from doing anything she gets” said Rei.

“That’s right. I believe that Miho is hoping to help her teammates out when the third quarter is in and of course, I will be trying to take the shooting skills against Maho” said Megumi.

“Oh, I think you have to watch out for Maho’s Fireworks” said Rei.

“You’re right. The Fireworks move makes the momentum going higher when the shots were perfect released. It brings their chances to be greater than expected” said Naoko.

“Yep. And I will be using my Shiny Gift move. We can’t take the disadvantage of our game. We need to take our lead, just like to shoot many points as we can” said Megumi.

“Yeah. We’re going to lead the game as many points as we can. Of course, we have a little chance to shoot perfectly” said Miho.

“Yeah! One more thing. Asuna, Yōko, since you’re finally ready to play against the Bravehearts, we need your support. Just group themselves to help Miho. That way, Miho can shoot at any direction she gets from the two” said Megumi.

“Okay!” said Asuna and Yōko.

“Michiko, Rei, you will play in the fourth quarter to play against Tomoka and Saki. Of course, since they will be fine for the fourth quarter, you will show up to beat them. Okay?” said Megumi.

“Okay!” said Michiko and Rei.

“Michiko, your Miracle Run should be activated when you enter the fourth quarter. Okay?” said Megumi.

“Okay!” said Megumi.

“Alright. Then, we’ll show to the Bravehearts of what’s the true meaning of teamwork!” said Megmi.

“Yeah!” said the members of Team Kadokawa.

The third quarter begins with players are in the court. Maho and Megumi cool off to prepare their match-up between the two. Hiiragi passes the ball to Tsubaki as the Bravehearts are in the possession.

Tsubaki battles against Asuna while Hiiragi and Yōko were hoping to see the result.

“I believe that my sister has many guts to beat Asuna. I talked to my sister before the second half begin” said Hiiragi.

The flashback begins with Tsubaki and Hiiragi talking about their plans to beat Yōko and Asuna on different occasions.

“Hii, Yōko had a lot of stamina to play the entire game. She has many moves to beat her opponents. So, I need you to match her strength with your weight” said Tsubaki.

“Tsuba, are you saying that I’m trying to battle her with my weight?” asked Hiiragi.

“Of course, Hii, it means that you need your strength to beat Yōko’s numbers. On the other hand, you have to work out with her moves. Her movements were strong like a versatile player in the middle school” said Tsubaki.

“Right! I’ll do it!” said Hiiragi. Tsubaki grins when Hiiragi will do her own job to defeat Yōko with her strength. “Tsuba, Asuna has her arms stretched to get the ball. You have to dash it in even you can steal the ball from her.”

“Oh, I’m good in that, Hii. My Double Mean Play will make sure that she won’t get the ball with our tricks” said Tsubaki.

“Yeah. We’ll make sure that we’ll this match, Tsuba” said Hiiragi.

“Of course, not, Hii!” said Tsubaki as the flashback ends. Hiiragi grins while Tsubaki prepares to drive past on Asuna.

“Now… go!” said Hiiragi as Tsubaki begins to play fast with her speed and drives past on Asuna and shoots the ball with the floater. The ball drives in to the basket and the score is now 35-33. The Bravehearts regains the lead.

“Finally! We made it!” said Saki.

“Regaining the lead!” said Airi. Tomoka smiles after Tsubaki performed well.

“Come on, girls! Move to offense!” said Megumi.

“Okay!” said Risa, Yōko, Asuna and Miho.

Miho dribbles the ball while Kagetsu guards her. Then, Miho would perform the turnaround move to shoot the ball with the jumper. The ball bounces off from the rim and Yōko gets the rebound.

“So, that’s what she did in the game against Suzuridani” said Hiiragi. “I believe that it’s time to use my strength!” Hiiragi begins to battle against Yōko while the latter struggles to get out of the screen.

“Well, you are tough. But it’s no way that you can get the ball from this!” said Yōko as she performs the one-hand hook shot. The ball drives in to the basket and the score is now tied at 35.

“She’s doing the hook shot over Hiiragi?!” said Airi.

“I think she has many shooting skills she made while playing in Takahata, but now, she’ll be releasing shots over the place in the key or in the low post” said Tomoka.

“It seems that she’s good in shooting, she can level up to use the Converted Hook Shot” said Saki.

“Oh, that’s why she’s using it in the game against the Innocent Charm and Suzuridani” said Airi.

“Yes, Airi. She did it to stop the mismatch” said Saki.

“Well, I guess that was a great shot to score” said Airi.

Tsubaki passes the ball to Hinata. Hinata would see two players defending her. Yōko and Risa were trying to get the ball by tipping it.

“Oh, they’re trying to get our ball? So, here’s what I have to show them!” said Hinata as she performs the Diagonal Pass, allowing Maho to get the ball.

“Nice pass, Hinata!” said Maho as she is about to shoot the ball. Megumi would try to stop her from shooting, but Maho decided to shoot the layup.

“Take this!” said Maho as she performs the layup and the ball drives to the basket. The Bravehearts are now regaining the lead, but Team Kadokawa still fights as they tried to score two points back to tie again.

Risa would perform the crossover move on Hinata and then, doing the same thing on Hiiragi. Maho appears to stop Risa from moving. “Not so fast!” said Maho, but Risa would step back and shoot the ball with the jumper. The ball went to the hoop and it goes in. As a result, the score is now tied at 37.

“What?!” said Maho, then she sees Risa walking. Risa stops walking and Maho said “How did you do that?”

“I have to shoot the ball with my speed and lateral quickness, so that I can shoot easily. You won’t have any chances to beat my shooting” said Risa. Maho gets mad upon hearing this.

“Uh oh. This could be difficult” said Tomoka.

“But why?” asked Mimi.

“Because Maho had guarded forwards in the games and then, she is very difficult to stop the guards. That’s why her quickness wasn’t high as her other opponents like Risa. Risa has observed the court whenever she comes out of the bench or not” said Tomoka.

“I see. Maybe Risa and Maho have eye contacts to see the players. I guess that both of them have good senses, Tomoka” said Mimi.

“Yeah” said Tomoka.

Hinata now possesses the ball after getting it from Hiiragi. She would be guarded by Yōko. Hiiragi moves while Risa stays.

“Alright, it’s that you want, Yōko, then I’ll have to shoot it right now!” said Hinata as she’s going to perform the one-hand floater of herself while Hiiragi stops moving as she steps into the key. The ball drives in to the basket and the score is now 39-37.

“What a relief” said Hinata. “I can’t believe that it worked!” Hiiragi removes her sweat after seeing Hinata shooting the ball.

“There’s only one possession that we can ever make if we can stop Yōko and Asuna” said Hiiragi.

Asuna now gets the possession of the ball as she was battling against Tsubaki. Tsubaki’s speed and Asuna’s speed have matched their comparison. Hiiragi was thinking about Asuna moves out of Tsubaki.

“Come on, Tsubaki! Let’s see if you can beat my moves!” said Asuna as she performs the crossover move on Tsubaki. Then, Tsubaki stumbles to the ground, allowing Asuna to shoot the ball with the jump shot. The ball drives in to the basket and the score is now tied again with both teams have 39 points apiece.

“Tsubaki!” said Hiiragi as she tries to get Tsubaki up after the latter fell from Asuna’s move. Jirō Matsuoka calls timeout for the Bravehearts.

“Timeout, Bravehearts!” said Jirō as Maho, Hinata and Kagetsu walks to Tsubaki and Hiiragi.

“That Asuna was using crappy moves to create an ankle break on me!” said Tsubaki.

“Oh, that’s not good” said Hinata.

“I think Asuna had a great acceleration and also, she can ankle break her opponents in the game” said Kagetsu.

“You see, Asuna keeps her cool with her signature move Shattered Kaolin where she can use her crossover move and then her opponent stumble to the ground. That would receive an ankle break” said Maho.

“There’s something we have to stop this move when Asuna’s holding the ball” said Hiiragi.

“Indeed. There are many strategies that we need in order to break their strategy. I mean Asuna and Yōko were good in flexibility and stamina” said Maho.

“That’s right. All we have to do is create a defense zone to battle against Asuna’s Shattered Kaolin. Also, the Sparked Triangle can allow Maho, Hinata and Kagetsu will contaminate the defense of Yōko and Asuna” said Tsubaki.

“Then, let’s use this move right now!” said Maho.

“Okay!” said Hinata, Tsubaki, Hiiragi and Kagetsu.

The game resumes with Maho getting the ball from Hinata. Maho would be battling against Megumi.

“You know Megumi, my teammates and I were helping ourselves to dominate the game no matter who the opponents are. As you all know, maybe you should prepare for this” said Maho with a smile. Maho, Kagetsu and Hinata would do the Sparked Triangle as they are pointing to Megumi while Miho and Yōko were cringed from moving.

“What was that?!” said Natsuhi.

“I think it is the Sparked Triangle” said Masami.

“Oh, I see. Then what is the Sparked Triangle?” said Mimi.

“This move is where three players on the frontcourt begin to lock in with their signature moves are in as they’re allowed to use them for them to score many points. Maho is getting more excited to power our team up and by the way, she won’t lose her stamina by doing that” said Masami.

“Ah, so that’s why Maho has planned this, so that she can help her teammates to shoot the ball and double team their opponent” said Mimi.

“Exactly my point, Mimi! Maho will be more excited like a sparked firework” said Masami.

“So, are you trying to stop me with that move?” asked Megumi.

“Yes, it is. And to think of it, your opponents won’t be able to stop us with that move!” said Maho as she shoots the ball with the jumper. The ball drives to the hoop and the Bravehearts regains the lead with the score of 41-39.

“Wow! Maho did a jumper over Megumi? That seems familiar with Maho getting excited already” said Tomoka.

“I guess Maho is now delivering her teammates to stop her opponents with the Sparked Triangle. They can do whatever they want to have the opponents getting halted with a zap” said Airi.

“Yep. Maho’s shots can’t miss with the Fireworks and the Sparked Triangle” said Saki. Maho smiles to Tomoka, Saki and Airi while Hinata, Kagetsu, Tsubaki and Hiiragi have many strengths to stop Team Kadokawa. With 3:30 remaining in the third quarter, the Bravehearts now have many variants from using the Complete Synchronization Skill like the combination of Fireworks and Sparked Triangle. Hopefully, Maho and her teammates will drive to victory with the new variant that she and her teammates spark a new run in the game.

UP NEXT: Chapter 31: "From Fireworks to Cherry Blossoms"

 

[Sherwin Riga]

Two more chapters before the Hasegawa Cup Arc as the series continues with the second part of the game between the Bravehearts and Team Kadokawa. With Maho and her teammates unleash their own Complete Synchronization Skill, the Bravehearts are on their advantage to win the game. Will Maho's very own Complete Synchronization Skill made the Bravehearts stronger to defeat Team Kadokawa or Team Kadokawa would get vengeance on them by creating their own Complete Synchronization Skill? We'll find out on Chapter 31! Enjoy reading Chapter 31!:)

Previously on the series, after Asuna performs the ankle break move on Tsubaki, Maho, Kagetsu and Hinata begin to glow their auras to create the Sparked Triangle. This move allows them to score back two points and Maho grows excitement with her team, allowing to create her own Complete Synchronization Skill known as Illuminating Fireworks. With that, Maho, Kagetsu, Hinata, Tsubaki and Hiiragi will be ready to overpower their opponents to increase their lead to double digits. On the other hand, Tomoka would create her own Complete Synchronization Skill when she returns to the court. Her version was last time appeared when they play against Team Katayama and the name of that version was the Sakura Connection. Looking forward to win the game, the Bravehearts will try to make sure that they will secure the victory at the end of the game.

VOLUME 3: “A CHARMING SENSATION”
CHAPTER 31: “FROM FIREWORKS TO CHERRY BLOSSOMS”​

Previously on the series, Maho created her own Complete Synchronization Skill to make sure that her team will power up with excitement and allow her teammates to shoot the ball faster like a firework. The new variant was called Illuminating Fireworks.

Kagetsu prepared to use her Prestigious Charm move as she begins to run faster to guard Miho who was holding the ball. Then, she predicts that Miho will miss the shot while she steps back. Miho would perform the layup, but it was missed and Kagetsu gets the rebound.

“You’re stronger right now?” asked Miho as she gets irritated from missing that shot.

“Yeah. And to conclude this, I have predicted every move you use while the Illuminating Fireworks is active” said Kagetsu as she passes the ball to Tsubaki.

“Nice pass, Kagetsu!” said Tsubaki. Kagetsu’s long pass to Tsubaki was a fastbreak, allowing Tsubaki to run faster. Tsubaki would drive past on Asuna and then, was confronted by Megumi.

“You’re mine, Tsubaki!” said Megumi as she tries to steal the ball, but Tsubaki performs the one-hand floater over the head of Megumi and the shot was good with the ball drives to the basket. It is now a four-point ball game for the Bravehearts. The score is now 43-39.

“Our run starts now!” said Maho as the Bravehearts begin to use the Illuminating Fireworks move. The Iridescent Triangle works with Maho’s determination and Hinata and Kagetsu’s speed and acceleration. The next scene is when Risa gets the ball from Yōko and she would perform the three-point shot. Kagetsu would block the shot.

“Take that!” said Kagetsu as the ball went out of bounds.

“Out of bounds. Light uniform ball” said Atsuko Hatano as the Bravehearts will get the possession.

“Alright!” said Tomoka, Saki, Airi, Mimi, Masami, Miyu and Himeko after Kagetsu’s block of Risa’s three-point shot.

“Our momentum is going up right now, girls! Then, let’s finish the quarter with our run!” said Maho.

“Yeah!” said Hinata, Kagetsu, Tsubaki and Hiiragi.

The next possession is where Hinata getting guarded by Yōko. Hinata would do the Diagonal Pass to Kagetsu.

“Shoot, Kagetsu!” said Hinata. Kagetsu would shoot the ball with the floater, the ball drives to the basket and the score is now 45-39.

“Nice shot, Gettan!” said Tsubaki.

“Thanks, Tsubaki!” said Kagetsu.

Megumi would do the crossover move on Maho and then, she drives past on her. Then, she shoots the ball with the jump shot, but it was missed when the ball bounces off from the rim. Miho would recover it and then, passes the ball to Yōko, who would shoot the three-point shot. The shot was good, and the score is now 45-42.

“It looks like Team Kadokawa tries to stop our run. Then, I guess that it’s time to keep our momentum alive!” said Kagetsu.

“Okay!” said Maho, Hinata, Tsubaki and Hiiragi.

Hiiragi passes the ball to Hinata and the latter sees Maho being guarded by Megumi and Asuna. Yōko would try to steal the ball, but Hinata would drive her out and then, shoots the ball with the floater. The score is now 47-42.

“Great shot, Hinata!” said Airi.

“Hinata solves the mismatch problems in the game and also, her Innocent Charm allows her to shoot prestigious shots” said Mimi.

“They think Hinata misses the shot, but her shooting skills were outclassing it” said Tomoka.

Megumi would drive past Maho and then, she tries to shoot the ball with the floater, but it was blocked by Tsubaki. Hiiragi gets the ball and then, she runs to the paint to shoot the ball with the floater. The Bravehearts are now commanding a seven-point lead with the score of 49-42.

“Nice shot, Hiiragi!” said Natsuhi.

“Wow! Your sisters have trained well ever since they joined the varsity team” said Hideki.

“Yep. And to top of that, they made tricks to their opponents to make them immobilize” said Natsuhi.

“Hey! I think Shun had that move too!” said Naoki.

“Oh, yeah” said Natsuhi. Shun Hinouchi also mastered that signature move, but in its own. The move was called the Foul Play move. He can snatch the ball from his opponents from by tipping in like a shadow.

Yōko passes the ball to Asuna and then, the latter drives past on Tsubaki and Hiiragi before performing the dunk. The score is now 49-44 with only 1:36 remaining in the third quarter.

Maho dribbles the ball and Megumi is guarding her. Then, Maho would perform the behind the back move that makes Megumi confused. Maho would shoot the ball with the jumper and the shot was not missed. The score is now 51-44.

“Maho finally breaks Megumi’s defense with her own crossover move” said Saki.

“I can’t believe that she gets lucky while her teammates get more strength and quickness” said Masami.

“That’s true, Masami. Thanks to Maho’s excitement, our willpower works better than the game against Suzuridani” said Mimi.

“Now, you know about our game against you, Mimi” said Miyu.

“Of course, Miyu! It was a lot of fun. Right, Tomoka?” said Mimi.

“Yeah. It was quite our best game on our first year. Both of us have the good fight until the end” said Tomoka.

Miyu nodded and smiled to Tomoka. “Thanks, Tomoka for giving such a great appreciation in the game” said Miyu.

“Yep. Anytime, Miyu, anytime” said Tomoka.

Megumi was struggling and now worried about her teammates’ attributes getting weaker.

“I can’t believe that my teammates have been exhausted, and Miho is trying to keep her stamina on high. I have to do this before the time is up” said Megumi. Then, she saw Miho, who was outside of the three-point line. “Miho, you’re on!” Megumi would throw the ball to Miho.

“Thanks, Megumi!” said Miho and then, Kagetsu tries to block her. “This is what I have finally made this before during our game against Team Fujii, master!” Miho would shoot the ball with the three-point shot that is compared to Prismatic Bird. The ball would drive to the basket and the score is now 51-47.

“Miho’s three-point is good!” said Michiko.

“Great shot, Miho!” said Rei.

“Thanks, everyone!” said Miho, who sheds a tear while Asuna and Yōko were hugging her for making the three-point shot.

Kagetsu and Hinata, meanwhile, smile on Miho, who finally shoots the three-point shot perfectly.

“Well, at least we still show up to her and being cheerful and admired person respects more to you, Kagetsu” said Hinata.

“Yeah, I trained her along with my friends. And of course, she wouldn’t be disappointed if she made her shots surely, but perfectly” said Kagetsu.

Hinata now dribbles the ball and then, drives past on Yōko and Megumi before Asuna tries to stop her. “Not this time!” said Hinata as she would do the floater over Asuna where she jumps higher than her sister and Miho to shoot the ball with one hand throws the ball. Then, the ball drives to the basket and score is now 53-47.

“Great shot, Hinata!” said Maho.

“Nice shot, sister! You’re great!” said Kagetsu.

“Thanks, Maho, Kagetsu!” said Hinata, then she looks at the time. “Oh, we only have 12 seconds to finish the third quarter.”

“So?” asked Maho.

“Then, let’s give all what we got to end the quarter!” said Hinata.

“Okay!” said Maho, Kagetsu, Tsubaki and Hiiragi.

Risa passes the ball to Asuna, who would pass the ball to Yōko. Yōko was guarded by Hinata. With five seconds remaining, Team Kadokawa needs to shoot the ball or it’s over. “Yōko! Pass it to me!” said Megumi.

“Okay, you’re with it!” said Yōko as she passes the ball to Megumi. Megumi would shoot the ball with the jumper while Maho tries to block her. The ball would hit the rim and bounce off and the time is up.

Atsuko declared that the third quarter is over. “End of third quarter. Team Bravehearts 53, Team Kadokawa 47.”

Megumi was shocked that she got bricked. “It got air balled?” asked Megumi.

“Well, I think your hands are weak to shoot when trying to perform that. Maybe you should rest first, Megumi” said Miho.

“Okay. But I won’t give up until I’ll be back eventually” said Megumi as Miho carried her to the bench.

Michiko now prepares herself to go back to the game while Risa and Miho were subbed out and Rei and Naoko replace her. The line-up will be Rei, Michiko, Yōko. Naoko and Asuna.

“Okay, team! We need to get many points as many as we can. Are we clear?” said Michiko.

“Yeah!” said Rei, Yōko, Naoko and Asuna.

“Then, let’s go!” said Michiko.

On the other hand, the Bravehearts have a meeting for the fourth quarter. With Michiko, Rei and Naoko are in for the fourth quarter, Maho had some ideas for the fourth quarter.

“Okay, Subaru, I think that we’re dominating the game, but I don’t know whether it will last for long. However, this Illuminating Fireworks had been better than the Complete Synchronization Skill. It seems that we have the lead, we are hopefully going to make it to the end. Right? So, we wanted to continue it, but Kagetsu wants to rest for now” said Maho.

“Okay. Kagetsu, you will be subbed out. Airi, you’re in” said Subaru.

“Yeah!” said Airi as Kagetsu gives her a high five.

“Good luck in the final quarter, Airi!” said Kagetsu.

“Okay! I’ll try my best!” said Airi.

“Now, since Michiko is back, Tomoka, you’re back in the game” said Subaru.

“Okay!” said Tomoka.

“Well, this is going to be the part where Tomoka and Michiko will meet again” said Aoi.

“I guess Michiko will play against Tomoka again” said Miyu.

“What a nice pick for Subaru to let Tomoka play in the fourth quarter” said Mimi.

“Hmm. Maho, Tomoka and Airi are in. We need to two more” said Subaru. Then, he came up an idea. “How about Saki and Mimi, you’ll be playing in place of Hiiragi and Hinata.”

“Sure!” said Saki and Mimi.

“I hope we can make it, Mimi!” said Saki.

“Oh, yes, we will!” said Mimi.

“Ah, finally, we’re going to rest for now, but we should cheer for Tomoka and others’ said Hinata.

“Yeah” said Kagetsu.

“Alright, we need to make sure that the speed and lateral quickness of Asuna and Yōko are lessen when Airi and Mimi playing. So, like Tsubaki and Hiiragi did, you have to do it. Okay?” said Subaru.

“Okay!” said Airi and Mimi.

“Then, let’s win this game!” said Subaru.

“Yeah!” said the members of the Bravehearts. Tomoka, Maho, Saki, Airi and Mimi went to the court together while the Illuminating Fireworks move is deactivated while the Shiny Gift, Ice Age, Prismatic Bird and Aurora Age moves are activated.

“We’ll show them who the best team is!’ said Maho.

The fourth quarter starts with Michiko battling against Tomoka. Maho sees both players battle again. “So, Tomoka, we’re back again. I thought that you are struggled, but you’re refreshing yourself” said Michiko.

“Yeah. It was quite fast that my teammates have their strength going up again. But you know, I wantto show you something that you wouldn’t see in my years in Shiromidai” said Tomoka.

“What is it?” asked Michiko. Saki and Maho switched their roles with Maho going on defense while Saki going on offense. Maho would come to guard Michiko.

“You see, Michiko. My teammates have many things to do and while they rested for a bit, they observed the opponents before they go back to their playtime. So, Michiko, can you beat my new strategy?” said Tomoka.

“Uh, I can’t answer it for now, Tomoka. I have to turn it up before my opponents are going at me” said Michiko as she drives past Maho and Tomoka and then, Airi would arrive to stop Michiko. Michiko would shoot the ball with the jumper and Airi blocks it.

“You can’t take that shot, Michiko! Tomoka had been using this strategy for a year and it doesn’t matter where you come from, I’ll coming at you!” said Airi. Tomoka would get the ball and run to the three-point line of the court.

“Good gracious, Tomoka! I wasn’t finished yet!” said Michiko as she runs on Tomoka. On the other hand, Naoko and Maho were battling each other.

“That Maho was using her strength and trying to use the pick and roll action. Well, I guess I have to play it out the hard way” said Naoko as she calls Asuna to call for double team on Maho.

“Oh no! Double teaming Maho?!” said Aoi.

“This is not going to be a good idea for Tomoka to pass the ball to her” said Subaru.

“Tomoka, pass it to me!” said Saki as she gets out of the low post area and Tomoka throws the ball to Saki. “Here I come!” Saki would shoot the three-point shot while Rei tries to stop her by blocking her shot. The ball drives in to the basket and the score is now 56-47.

“Great shot, Saki!” said Masami.

“Nice shot, Saki!” said Maho and Tomoka. Saki grins to her teammates.

“Looks like Saki’s three-point shot was getting improved from a bit. I think she finally dashes off from her opponents to shoot the three-point shots” said Subaru.

“I thought that she might miss her shot, but she’s looking determined as long as she’s in the game” said Aoi.

Rei was defended by Mimi and Tomoka. Then, Rei passes the ball to Michiko to shoot the ball with the three-point shot.

“I’m going to show you the strength of my Miracle Run!” said Michiko as her shot won’t miss and the score is now 56-50. This is going to be the point where Michiko activates the Miracle Run.

“Michiko is now using the Miracle Run?!” said Tsubaki.

“Wow! No way she’ll try to stop Tomoka and her teammates!” said Hiiragi.

“Oh, this is getting more serious for Michiko” said Hinata.

“Looks like Michiko is going Miracle Run mode. Tomoka, I’ll handle this” said Mimi.

“Okay!” said Tomoka.

Mimi would go to the perimeter and Michiko begins to use her strength, trying to steal the ball from Mimi.

“Michiko, as my Aurora Age is here, you don’t think you can watch our moves” said Mimi.

“Well, you don’t have to observe us. We’re trying to stop this run with our momentum going up” said Michiko as she steals the ball from Mimi.

Michiko runs to the paint where she performs the dunk and the score is now 56-52.

“She can dunk too?!” said Masami.

“You don’t have a chance to be my Miracle Run, Mimi. Even when your teammates have tried to score back, I’ll ride you up to pain” said Michiko as she started to let her teammates go on guard to stop Tomoka and her teammates.

Saki’s shot was missed and Yōko gets the rebound. She then dashes through Tomoka and then shoots the ball with the jumper. The drive now swifter and faster which makes Tomoka and her teammates begin to exhaust.

Then, Airi tries to shoot it back, but was blocked by Naoko. Then, Naoko would run to the other side of the court and performs the alley-oop with Michiko dunks it and the score is now tied at 56.

“This is not good. We only have four minutes remaining and we didn’t shoot the ball after a minute” said Subaru, thinking that Michiko’s Miracle Run is now stronger than the Illuminating Fireworks.

On the next possession, Maho was confronted by Naoko while Mimi was guarded by Michiko and Rei. “I don’t want to let this happen, Naoko! We still have the guts to score back points. Then, it’s time to teach your lessons about our difference in our strength!” said Maho as she dashes on Naoko and the tries to shoot the ball with the layup, but Michiko would touch Maho’s arms and blocking it. This would cause Jirō to call foul on Michiko.

“Dark uniform, foul. Number 6, shooting. Two free throws, Light uniform number 5” said Jirō.

“Michiko! Why did you do that?” said Tomoka.

“I don’t care if you are trying to stop our Miracle Run. I prove it to you. So, there are chances that your shots won’t make it when the move is activated” said Michiko.

“So, are you going to predict our moves?” asked Tomoka.

“Yes, of course” said Michiko. “We’ll show you how our run is done after the free throw play.”

The players went to the key for the free throw play. Maho would begin shooting the first free throw. The first shot was good, regaining the lead by point.

“Nice free throw, Maho!” said Tsubaki.

“Make it two, Maho!” said Hiiragi.

“Okay!” said Maho as she gives Tsubaki and Hiiragi a wink and prepares for the shooting of her second free throw.

“Come on, Maho! You can do it!” said Mimi and Tomoka while Saki and Airi prepare to go for a possible rebound.

Maho shoots the ball and the second free throw was good. That makes the Bravehearts going on a two-point lead.

“Great! Then, let’s give them a beating, girls!” said Tomoka.

“Yeah!” said Saki, Maho, Airi and Mimi.

The next possession begins with Michiko dribbling the ball as she went to the three-point line. Then, Tomoka would guard her while Airi and Saki double team Yōko.

“Michiko, I don’t care if you are going to shoot the ball, but I have the Complete Synchronization Skill to be activated” said Tomoka.

“Oh, yeah, then let’s battle!” said Michiko. Michiko clashes with Tomoka with their movements going back and forth. Then, Michiko would perform the turnaround jumper, but the shot was missed.

“Argh! It falls off?!” said Michiko and Maho gets the rebound.

“Got it! Tomoka, catch!” said Maho as she passes the ball to Tomoka.

“Thanks, Maho!” said Tomoka as she went to the other side of the court and then, she would do the behind the back dribble and dash off Rei to shoot the ball with the floater. The shot was good, and the score is now 60-56.

“Nice shot, Tomoka!” said Maho, Subaru and Aoi. Tomoka was glad to have her team going to back from struggle since the first quarter.

“We’re reaching three minutes and we’re hopefully going to make it one if we can continue the Miracle Run. Everyone, fight back!” said Michiko.

“Okay!” said Rei, Yōko, Naoko and Asuna.

Naoko would be guarded by Maho, then Mimi and Rei battling each other. Mimi would escape from Rei as she tries to steal the ball. Naoko would drive past Maho, but Mimi steals the ball out of nowhere.

“Tomoka, catch!” said Mimi as she did the long pass and Tomoka catches it.

“Nice pass, Mimi!” said Tomoka.

“You can do it!” said Masami, Tsubaki, Hiiragi, Kagetsu, Hinata, Subaru and Aoi. Tomoka would perform the floater without her opponents, who were trying to block her. The shot is good, and the score is now 62-56.

“Alright!” said Tomoka as she and her teammates have finally activated the Complete Synchronization Skill while Michiko sees that Tomoka is finally ready to battle her with their zones are in.

“Wow! Tomoka’s team and Michiko’s team have the same zones activate in the same quarter?!” said Natsuhi.

“This is going to be different than the one against Suzuridani” said Naoki.

“I told you, everyone. Tomoka and her teammates are preparing to stop Michiko and her team with their Complete Synchronization Skill” said Miyu.

“This is getting more serious right now. I believe that both teams are using their strengths just like professional players” said Miho.

“This is it… the final stretch!” said Kagetsu and Megumi.

The next possession went to Team Kadokawa as Michiko passes the ball to Rei and then, Tomoka appear to stop her. Rei would pass the ball to Naoko, who tried to shoot the ball with the layup, but Airi blocks it.

“Don’t worry, girls! Let’s fight it back!” said Michiko as she her teammates are trying to recover the ball from being blocked by Airi. Airi passes the ball to Mimi and then Michiko grins, hoping to steal the ball again.

Mimi would perform the behind the back dribble and then, pass the ball to Maho, who would shoot the ball with the dunk and the score is now 64-56.

“Nice assist and dunk, Mimi and Maho!” said Natushi, Tsubaki, Hiiragi, Kagetsu and Hinata.

“Thanks, everyone!” said Mimi and Maho.

Michiko would perform the crossover move on Tomoka and then dashes off on Mimi to shoot the ball with the layup. The ball drives to the basket and Team Kadokawa cuts the Bravehearts’ lead to six. The score is 64-58 with Team Bravehearts is leading.

“Everyone! We have to watch out on Michiko’s Miracle Run!” said Saki, who would turn to Maho. “Tomoka, Mimi and I will be on offense while you and Airi will be on defense. Got it?”

“Got it!” said Maho.

“Everyone, let’s do this like we did against Team Katayama!” said Saki.

“Okay!” said Tomoka, Maho, Airi and Mimi. Saki had surveyed the court while Mimi prepares to predict the moves of her teammates or her opponents. Mimi was guarded by Rei, who tried to use her double team after she calls Yōko to join.

“Double team? Then, I’ll reverse this. Pass, Saki!” said Mimi as she would do the no-look pass and Saki catches it to shoot the three-point shot. Michiko tries to stop her from shooting the ball beyond the three-point line.

“Look out, Saki!” said Tomoka as she warned Saki to stop shooting the ball. Saki would do the fake and pass the ball to Mimi. Looks like Saki also did a no-look pass. Mimi would shoot the ball while jumping on the three-point line and the ball drives to the hoop. The score is now 66-58 and Team Bravehearts have maintained the lead.

“Did you see that? Mimi and Saki do the no-look passes. I think their IQs were higher than their teammates” said Akiko, who watched along with the members of Family of Angels at the front row.

“Yep. They were surveying the court and then, performing some versatile moves on their opponents. Mimi and Saki would try to work together on offense” said Jun.

“Ah, I see. They are working together right now like two guards doing some action” said Akiko.

“Yeah” said Jun.

The next possession came to Team Kadokawa with Rei trying to dribble past Mimi. Then, Saki gets out of the zone while Yōko asks Michiko to stop her. “Stop them!” said Yōko.

“Alright!” said Michiko, but it came too late when Tomoka stops Michiko from moving. Rei would instead pass the ball to Yōko to shoot the ball. The ball drives to the basket and the score is now 66-60.

“We won’t give up, girls!” said Yōko.

The members of Orange and Fuchsia cheer for Yōko and Asuna. They chanted “Go Asuna! Go Yōko!”, “Let’s go Asuna!” and “Give all you got, Yoko!”

Airi gets the ball from Tomoka and then gets past on Asuna to prepare to shoot the ball. Naoko went to the key to stop Airi. As Naoko tries to stop Airi from shooting the ball, Maho calls Airi to get the ball. “Pass it and I’ll shoot!”

“Okay, here!” said Airi and then, Maho shoots the ball with the jump shot. The ball drives to the basket and the score is now 68-60.

“Great shot, Maho!” said Tomoka and Saki.

“Yeah! We’re still stronger as we are, girls!” said Maho.

“Yeah!” said Tomoka, Saki, Airi and Mimi.

“Looks like the Complete Synchronization Skill beat the Miracle Run. Both the Complete Synchronization Skill and Illuminating Fireworks work out good in the game” said Subaru.

“This is going to be more improved than the game against Team Katayama” said Hinata.

“Of course, Hinata” said Subaru.

“I believe that Tomoka’s own Complete Synchronization Skill was very compatible to other players’ signature moves. That’s why her version was called the Sakura Connection” said Himeko.

“Ah, now you’re naming it, Himeko!” said Subaru.

“Thanks, Subaru!” said Himeko.

Michiko gets the ball from Rei and now she’s exhausted from trying to stop Tomoka and her teammates. However, she still has hopes for her team to win. “I’m not done yet, Tomoka! Watch this!” said Michiko as she steps back and performs the bank shot without stepping the three-point line. The ball drives to the basket and the score is now 68-63.

“I’m not giving up, Tomoka!” said Michiko, declaring that her team is not worry on losing the game.

“Me either, Michiko!” said Tomoka.

“Let’s finish this once and for all!” said Michiko and Tomoka.

“Come on, girls! Let’s finish what all we got!” said Michiko.

“Yeah!” said Rei, Yōko, Naoko and Asuna.

“Everyone! We’ll show our full strength and power to finish the game!” said Tomoka.

“Okay!” said Saki, Maho, Airi and Mimi.

The next possession came to Team Bravehearts with Maho getting the ball after Saki passes it. Then, she sees Mimi without her opponent. “Catch, Mimi!” said Maho as she throws the ball.

“Thanks!” said Mimi. “This time, I won’t fail!” Mimi dashes off Yōko and Michiko before performing the layup and the ball drives to the basket. The Bravehearts are now lead by seven with the score of 70-63.

“One minute remaining, everyone! Let’s get that win!” said Subaru.

“Okay!” said Tomoka, Maho, Saki, Airi and Mimi.

Naoko would drive past on Maho, but Airi appears to stop her. “Hmph! Trying to stop me?! Okay, then I’ll lean it on your way, Airi!” said Naoko as she drives past on Airi to shoot the ball with the layup. The score is now 70-65.

“Wow! She did a fadeaway layup all by herself?!” said Kishō.

“I think she did it before during her game against them in the intramurals” said Miori.

“Come on, girls! Let’s seal the game with this!” said Tomoka as she passes the ball to Maho. Maho would perform the crossover move and then a no-look pass, allowing Airi to get the ball. Airi would shoot the ball, Asuna tilts it and the ball bounces off from the rim.

“What?!” said Tomoka, who was shocked when seeing it. Michiko gets the rebound and runs to the other side of the court.

“I’m going to shoot a three-pointer if the last thing I would do!” said Michiko.

“Thirty seconds!” said Atusko Hatano.

Michiko and Tomoka clashes each other with the possible chance of a two-point lead may be slim.

“You’re strong, Tomoka, but I hope you’re going to see this with my move!” said Michiko as she stops dribbling to shoot the ball with the jumper. Tomoka tries to stop her, but the shot was good, allowing Team Kadokawa to cut the lead to three points. The score is now 70-67.

“Michiko scores two points, instead of three? I guess that might be a bad move for her if Tomoka and her teammates score back” said Himeko.

“Oh, you’ll wait and see, Himeko. I think her Sakura Connection is used when Tomoka is now leading the team. It’s going to be crucial if Michiko snatches the ball and ties it” said Masami.

“Yep. I hope Michiko won’t steal it in the last second” said Himeko.

Saki walks to the center of the court and passes the ball to Mimi. Mimi would battle against Yōko while Michiko battles against Tomoka.

“Wait for it…” said Tomoka as Yōko tries to stop Mimi from moving while the time is running out. Mimi still dribbles until Michiko left Tomoka and tries to steal the ball. “…now!”

Mimi moves the ball out there, drives past Yōko and Michiko and would shoot the ball with the layup. The ball drives to the basket, the buzzer had been sounded and the final score is 72-67, sealing the game with Team Bravehearts getting the victory.

The members of Team Bravehearts would celebrate their victory and Tomoka, Maho, Saki, Airi and Mimi were happy after Mimi did the last-second shot.

“We won the game, everyone!” said Mimi.

“It worked!” said Kazuko Kakimoto.

“How did she do that while Tomoka observing Michiko to stop the latter’s momentum?” asked Kahele.

“Of course, Mimi did something right when she is going to shoot, but with the second opponent trying to stop her, she decided to use her aurora to quickly drive past the two opponents before doing the layup. This is what Mimi never did this before and now, she did it for her team” said Kazuko.

“Yeah, that was so beautiful! Great shot, Mimi!” said Kahele.

Mimi sees Kahele and Kazuko congratulating her for her team’s victory. “Thank you, Kahele and Mimi!”

“With the final score of 72-67, Team Bravehearts wins the game. Bow!” said Atsuko.

“Thank you very much!” said the players of Team Bravehearts and Team Kadokawa. The players from both teams shake each other’s hands as a sign of sportsmanship.

Part 2 will be on the next post.