Volleyball Team

As Ryota strolled toward the gymnasium, he inquired, "Akiru, are you absolutely certain the gym is available today?" Akiru confidently replied, "Without a doubt, I triple-checked it thrice." Suga chimed in, "It's all good. Look, even the seniors are here." Upon entering the gym, they were greeted by the sight of their seniors already engaged in warm-ups. Ryota, however, had already slipped into the changing rooms. A chilling sensation crept over Akiru and Kite from behind. "Suga-kun, what's that ominous vibe lurking back there?" Akiru asked, only to see Suga sprinting after Ryota. He muttered, "Crap." The captain's voice boomed, "Why are you late?" in a tone that sent shivers down their spines. Kite felt a chill and stammered, "Captain, the thing is..." But the captain cut him off, commanding, "Run fifty laps around the gym. I'll be watching—no shortcuts." With tears in their eyes, they began their grueling run.

After the 20th lap, their legs felt like they were on the brink of collapse, yet they pressed on, knowing their captain would add another 10 laps to their torment at the slightest hint of fatigue. They glanced back to check if he was still looming over them, only to collide with someone. Turning, they found Ryota standing there. "Ryota-san, move! The captain will have our heads!" they exclaimed. They attempted to sprint away, but before they could even take a step, they crumpled to the ground, their legs finally giving out. Ryota effortlessly hoisted them both onto his shoulders, as if they were mere sacks of potatoes, and carried them toward the gymnasium. Akiru murmured, "Ryota-san, my angel," just before losing consciousness. Even Kite was too exhausted to utter a word; his body refused to budge an inch.

After placing both of them on the bench, Ryota returned to the court, seamlessly slipping back into his role. He and his friends engaged in a spirited game of volleyball, with him serving as the setter. His performance was nothing short of impressive, leaving even the seniors astounded on his very first day. They were convinced he was destined for a professional career in the sport. Such is life, really. Each day, once school wraps up, they flock to the volleyball club, where the captain nearly always has them running laps around the gymnasium.