Ekans_Kumar

Renji Takahashi, a quiet and withdrawn first-year student, has always struggled to connect with others. While his social anxiety keeps him isolated, his talent for volleyball is undeniable. Renji's ability to read the flow of the game, combined with his exceptional defensive skills as a libero, makes him a hidden gem.

Enter Asuka Fujisawa, the charismatic and caring manager of the Misaki High volleyball team. Determined to bring out Renji’s potential, Asuka pushes him to step out of his comfort zone — both on and off the court.

As Renji opens up, he finds himself forming bonds with his teammates, developing newfound confidence, and discovering that the heart of volleyball isn’t just about skill — it’s about connection, trust, and passion

Hearts on The Court

Renji sat on the bench, fingers gripping the edge of his knee pads. His heartbeat hadn't settled since the last match against Seiyo High, and now, the pressure had only intensified.

They weren't just strong—they were strategic.

He glanced across the court at Shun Takagi, Hoshin's captain and setter. Unlike Kenjiro's cocky smirk, Takagi's face was calm, unreadable.

This guy… he's not just playing volleyball.

A hand suddenly clapped down on Renji's shoulder.

"You alright?" Yuuto asked, his voice low enough so only Renji could hear.

Renji exhaled slowly. "I will be."

Yuuto nodded once. "Good. 'Cause Coach just put this whole game on you."

Renji stiffened. He could still hear Coach Fujimoto's words.

"They'll target you first. If you crumble, they take control."

Asuka sat on the bench, watching him with concern. Their last conversation was still fresh in his mind—her hand on his arm, the way she'd thanked him for standing up for her.

But there was no time to think about that now.

Because the semi-finals had begun.

First Set: The Illusion of Control

The first serve flew over the net, fast and precise.

Hoshin's spikes were powerful, but Misaki's blockers did their job. Renji handled the first few receives well, sending perfect passes to Yuuto.

For a moment, it felt like a normal match.

Renji felt it before he fully understood what was happening.

Hoshin's attacks stopped being random.

Every hit forced him into movement—deep into the backcourt one second, lunging forward the next.

"They're making me move. Making me react."

His muscles strained as he chased down each ball.

Yuuto caught on quickly. "They're messing with your positioning," he muttered under his breath.

Renji grit his teeth. Yeah, no kidding.

A spike came toward him, and he stepped forward, expecting a straight shot.

But at the last second, Takagi's set changed the angle.

The ball cut sharply away from Renji's reach.

The ball slammed into the floor behind him.

"They're making me react to them… instead of me controlling the defense."

It was exactly what Coach warned them about.

Hoshin dictated the game with their set plays, and Misaki struggled to keep up.

Renji's legs burned as he scrambled across the court, trying to keep them in the rally.

But the cracks in Misaki's defense grew wider.

Every misstep Renji made threw off their formation.

Hoshin capitalized on every opening.

Renji knelt on the floor, breathing hard.

His hands balled into fists against the court.

Misaki High had fought so hard to get here.

But right now… they were playing Hoshin's game.

And if they didn't figure out a way to break free—

The semi-finals would slip through their fingers.

The Semi-Finals Begin