Disclaimer: Again, Saki isn't mine
The morning sun cast a golden hue over the Nagano Prefectural Tournament venue, it is bustling with energy as teams from all over the Nagano arrived along with supporters. The air was filled with excitement, the low hum of conversations mingling with the occasional clatter of mah-jong tiles being shuffled.
As Nodoka stepped out of the team's bus and onto the pavement, she was immediately met by a throng of reporters. Microphones and cameras were thrust toward her, and questions began flying in rapid succession.
"Haramura Nodoka, the runner-up from last year's Inter-Middle Tournament! Haramura-san, can we get a comment?"
"Haramura-san, how does it feel to be back in the competitive scene?"
Nodoka maintained her composure, but she could feel the intensity of the situation. The questions came from all directions, a reminder of the expectations placed on her after her impressive performance the previous year.
One reporter's voice cut through the noise, sharp and probing. "Haramura-san, are you gunning for the individual tournament instead of the team tournament? After all, you joined an unknown school—Kiyosumi High?"
The question lingered in the air; the implication clear: why would a known player with plenty of opportunity to join an established team join Kiyosumi? They think Nodoka is aiming for a grandstand.
For a brief moment, Nodoka felt a flicker of irritation. However, she quickly suppressed it, reminding herself that the press just wants to get a reaction from her.
With a calm but confident expression, she addressed the reporter. "Thank you for your question," she began, her voice steady and clear. "But let me correct that assumption. I didn't join Kiyosumi High School Mah-jong Club for individual glory. I joined because I believe in this team. We're aiming for the Nationals, and I have full confidence in our ability to get there together."
Her words were delivered with such conviction that the crowd of reporters fell silent for a moment, processing her response. After all, while Nagano was not a big prefecture, it had its share of strong teams, like Ryuumonbuchi, who had reached the Inter High's Quarterfinals with last year's MVP, Amae Koromo, and Kazekoshi, a known 's eyes held a determined gleam, a reflection of the pride she felt for her team and her belief in their shared goal.
The reporters quickly recovered, taking notes and murmuring amongst themselves, but the tone had shifted. Nodoka had made it clear: she wasn't just a rising star in the individual scene—she was part of a team with aspirations that reached far beyond the Prefectural Tournament.
As the reporters began to disperse, Nodoka turned to join her teammates, who had been waiting a short distance away. Hisa gave her an approving nod with a wide grin on her face, and the rest of the team smiled, their spirits lifted by Nodoka's unwavering confidence.
Once they were out of earshot of the reporters, Hisa gathered the team together in a quiet corner of the venue.
"Alright, everyone, listen up," Hisa began, her voice firm yet encouraging. She unfolded a piece of paper in her hand, glancing down at it before continuing. "I've just received the draw for our first match. We'll be facing Toufukuji High School, Imamiya Girls' High School, and East Chikuma High School."
The names didn't elicit any strong reactions from the team. These weren't known powerhouses in the mah-jong world, but Hisa quickly cut through any potential complacency.
"Now now, I know these aren't well-known schools," she said, her tone care free and serious, "but remember this: we're not a known school either. That doesn't mean we should underestimate anyone. Just as we're aiming to surprise them, they might be looking to surprise us. So, stay sharp."
The team members nodded in agreement, their expressions turning serious as they absorbed Hisa's words.
"Next, the lineup," Hisa continued. "For Vanguard, we have Yuuki." She looked at the energetic first-year, who grinned confidently.
"That means I am the strongest, djey!" Yuuki declared, pumping her fist up in the air. "I am telling you this is because of taco power! Kyoutaro, you better supply me the finest taco!"
"You are the vanguard because you suck at counting points." Mako said interrupting Yuuki's steam rolling moment to get back at the topic.
"But I did all those arithmetic books." Yuuki tried to retort.
Kyoutarou mumbled in the background, "You answered half of them wrong."
"What did you say?" Yuuki's attention whipped towards the sole male member of Kiyosumi.
Hisa clapped to stop the commotion, "Alright alright back at me. Sergeant will be Mako."
Mako adjusted her glasses again, a small smile playing on her lips. Sergeant, huh? she mused, feeling the weight of the position. Guess it's up to me to hold the line and keep our momentum steady. Can't let the team down.
She nodded to Hisa, who gave her a knowing look, both understanding the importance of Mako's role.
"I'll be taking the Lieutenant position," Hisa said, her gaze steady. "Maho, you'll be our Vice Captain."
Maho's eyes widened slightly, her heart skipping a beat. Vice-Captain? Me? The thought filled her with both excitement and nerves. She quickly nodded; her determination evident. "Uwaaah, I'll do my best, Buchou!"
Hisa smiled at Maho's enthusiasm, then turned her attention to the final announcement. "And Nodoka, you'll be our Captain and the last player to go."Nodoka nodded, feeling the weight of her responsibility, but also the trust her teammates had placed in her.
"One more thing for those who don't read the rules," Hisa pointedly looked at Yuuki, added "there will be one hanchan for each player this today and two if we make it to the finals. The score will start at 100,000 points per team, and the score will carry over to the next player. The game will end during the Captain's last hanchan or if a team's score drops below zero. So, remember, every point matter—not just for you, but for the entire team."
The team exchanged determined looks, the gravity of the tournament setting in. This was it—the start of their journey to the Nationals.
"Alright," Hisa said, a small smile breaking through her stern expression. "Let's show them why they shouldn't underestimate Kiyosumi."
The team nodded in unison; their resolve solidified. Together, they walked toward the tournament hall, ready to face whatever challenges awaited them.
Shortly after that while seating in one of the viewing rooms where their team's match will be broadcasted, Nodoka's phone vibrated.
Nodoka reached for her phone to look at it, she felt her cheeks warm immediately upon reading the message.
'Good Luck on your first day of matches, Haramura-san.' Saki sent her a message.
The clatter of tiles echoed through the tournament hall as the first hanchan began. Yuuki was brimming with excitement, her fingers itching to draw her first tile. She was seated as the East player, which she always considered her lucky position.
"I have taco power, djey!" Yuuki's declaration can be heard on the stadium's speaker.
The clatter of tiles echoed through the tournament hall as the first hanchan began. Yuuki was brimming with excitement, her fingers itching to draw her first tile. She was seated as the East player, which she always considered her lucky position.
As the match commenced, the atmosphere around the table grew tense. Yuuki's eyes gleamed with determination—this was her moment to shine. The East round was where she felt most in sync, and she knew she had to make the most of it.
The tournament hall buzzed with anticipation as the first hanchan began. Kiyosumi High School was a relative unknown in the competitive mahjong scene except for Haramura Nodoka, and the other schools in the match—Toufukuji High, Imamiya Girls' High, and East Chikuma High—weren't too concerned.
'Kiyosumi is only about Haramura Nodoka.' The East Chikuma Vanguard thought while smirking. 'They are sending a first year for vanguard, I will show them how I rack points!'
Yuuki's presence at the mahjong table was undeniable during the East round She started with a quick, solid hand in the first East round, winning.
The opponents, underestimating the new team from Kiyosumi High, were caught off guard. 'She's fast but no matter, I will win with a yakuman,' The player from Toufukuji thought.
At the stadium, Hisa can be seen smirking widely. Mako who saw Hisa's expression immediately muttered, "Buchou, you look evil."
Hisa laughed at their sergeant and said, "I can't wait to see the look on their faces."
Mako sighed like she has given up and said, "Yup, totally evil." She said that she is also smiling completely entertained by everyone's antics.
Going back on Yuuki's match, as the dealer, Yuuki seized the opportunity and continued her winning streak. In the first dealer repeat, she declared a Haneman, claiming a substantial amount of points. "Tacos amazing, djey!"
"Yuu-chan is so funny right, Nodo-chan?" Maho was giggling while watching the mayhem that Yuuki was causing.
Yuuki's confidence was palpable as she scored a Mangan in the second dealer repeat, and another in the third repeat. The other players, who had initially dismissed her, were now visibly rattled, their faces showing a mixture of disbelief and frustration.
'Someone please stop her,' The player from Toufukuji thought.
Just as Yuuki was about to secure her fourth dealer repeat win, East Chikuma High managed a cheap 1,000/2,000-point hand, breaking her streak and ending the dealer turn.
'Nooo, my east hand is gonna end djey,' Yuuki thought
When the South round began, the mood had shifted. The opponents, shaken and demoralized by Yuuki's earlier performance, played conservatively. They were more focused on avoiding major losses rather than trying to win big. This change in strategy was noticeable; they aimed for quick, cheap hands rather than pursuing substantial gains.
"Why are they not attacking, Yuuki?" Maho asked her team mates.
Hisa grinned wider than a Cheshire cat, "Because they are afraid that they will deal with Yuuki's expensive hands."
Maho looked confused, "But Yuu-chan sucks at South round."
"And that's why I called her evil, it was a trap." Mako said to Maho, amusement on her eyes can be seen.
Nodoka pitying her friend went straight to the point and said, "Maho, they didn't know Yuuki."
By the end of the South round, it was clear that Yuuki's East round dominance had set the tone. Her opponents' strategy unable to overcome the deficit she had built.
"They fell for the trap." Hisa announced.
As the South round concluded, Mako prepared for her match as the Sergeant. With Yuuki's impressive performance, Kiyosumi High had built a significant lead, and Mako's role now was to maintain that advantage and protect their position.
The atmosphere around the mah-jong table was tense. The opponents, rattled by Yuuki's dominant play, were now more cautious, aiming to recover from their deficit. Mako knew she needed to adapt her strategy to the situation.
When the match began, Mako focused on securing quick, cheap hands to maintain their lead without taking unnecessary risks. Her strategy was simple: accumulate points steadily and avoid big losses.
As the tiles were dealt, Mako's with her eyeglasses on scanned the board with practiced familiarity. She made prioritized hands that were easy to complete and avoided risky draws. Her focus was on small, consistent gains rather than attempting high-risk hands that could jeopardize the team's position.
The first few hands saw Mako picking up small but steady points. She played strategically, choosing tiles that would give her the best chances for quick wins. Her opponents, trying to make a comeback, found themselves unable to gain significant ground against Mako's steady play.
A few hands into the round, Mako secured a win with a straightforward hand that earned her a modest amount of points. The win was enough to add to Kiyosumi's lead, and she continued with the same approach—playing conservatively but effectively.
"Nice work, Mako!" Hisa called out from the viewing room, her eyes gleaming with satisfaction.
"Someya-senpai is really reliable." Nodoka declared.
"Out of everyone in our team, Mako played mah-jong the most." Hisa informed her team.
"What do you mean, Buchou?" Nodoka asked curious.
"Well, Mako practically grew up in a mah-jong parlour." Hisa continued, "The one where you played with Fujita-pro."
"I didn't know, Mako-senpai's rich djey!" Yuuki-said while munching on a Taco, "I should take her with me to eat some tacos."
Maho laughed at Yuuki, "You're thinking of eating tacos while you are eating one."
"Of course, djey!" Yuuki proudly declared before taking a big bite of her beloved tacos.
Nodoka chose to ignore her friend's antics.
As Mako's match progressed, she managed to avoid major risks while steadily increasing Kiyosumi's point total.
Her opponents, frustrated and unable to break through Mako's solid defence, tried to adapt their strategies but struggled to keep pace. Mako's consistent play ensured that their lead remained intact and even grew slightly.
As the South round began, Mako still seated with a steady gaze. The mah-jong table felt familiar, almost comforting. She adjusted her glasses, a habit she'd developed over countless hours spent in a mah-jong parlor since childhood.
I remember sitting in that old mah-jong parlour, the clatter of tiles, the murmur of conversations—those moments were more than just practice; they were a way of life.
Mako's thoughts drifted back to her early days in the parlour, watching her grandfather and his friends play. She was just a child then, fascinated by the game's complexity and the strategic depth it offered. The parlour was where she learned the subtleties of mahjong, where she developed her style.
Back then, I watched and learned, picking up every nuance of the game. Each session in that smoky room was a lesson, of different games, different play style. Until I got familiar with it that I can recognise the table like how I can recognise a person's facial expression.
Today, my role is clear: protect the lead Yuuki has built. I need to ensure that every point count and that our position remains secure. No risky moves, just solid, reliable play.
She looked at the mah-jong table and thought, And I recognise this face very clearly.
As the round neared its end, Mako continued to play with the same discipline. Her final hand, a quick and cheap win, added just enough to seal the round in Kiyosumi's favour.
With the end of her match, Mako stood up, her face showing a mix of relief and satisfaction. She had fulfilled her role, protecting the lead that Yuuki had established and keeping the team on track.
"Well done, Mako!" Hisa congratulated her as she re-joined the team.
"Buchou, it's your turn now," Mako smiled, feeling a sense of accomplishment. "Can't be shown up by the kouhai's now, can you?"
Hisa stood up from her chair and said, "A woman doesn't reveal her age."
Maho confusingly looked at her then to Nodoka, seemingly looking for answers.
"Don't try to make sense of what Buchou was saying." Mako said clearly jesting around with Hisa.
"I've got feelings you know." Hisa retorted, pretending to be in pain by putting her hand above her chest.
"I am already feeling sorry to the other players." Mako sighed pretending to be exasperated by Hisa who is already waving good bye to everyone to go to her match.
Hisa approached the table, her usual carefree smile in place, but her mind was already scheming. As she settled into her seat, the familiar clatter of tiles being shuffled echoed around her. The air was thick with concentration, the weight of the match pressing down on everyone present. Especially to the other players ever since the vanguard match Hisa glanced at her opponents, noting their determined expressions. Achaa I feel like I'm being targeted Each one was here to win, to turn the tide in their team's favour.
It's been a long road to go here. Hisa thought feeling a little sentimental. "I guess I have to make the most of it." She thought out loud.
Hisa knew she had a choice to make. Should she play aggressively and try to sink someone's points below zero, ending the match before it reached Maho? Or should she play a series of cheap, quick hands, keeping the match relatively even and giving Maho the chance to experience the competitive atmosphere firsthand?
Her fingers tapped lightly on the edge of the table as she considered her options. Ending the match here would ensure their victory, but it would also reveal too much about her playstyle. Her real strength was in her unpredictability—keeping her true strategies hidden until it mattered most. Besides, letting Maho play could be invaluable. The sooner Maho adapted to the high-stakes environment of a tournament, the better their chances would be in the future.
I'll go with the latter option, she decided, her expression never wavering. Cheap and quick hands. I'll keep things steady and let Maho get her feet wet.
The tiles slid into place, and Hisa quickly scanned her initial hand. It wasn't spectacular, but that didn't matter. This wasn't about winning big. It was about maintaining the status quo, keeping the other teams off balance without revealing too much.
As the hanchan progressed, she played exactly as she'd planned—quick hands, low points, nothing flashy. Her opponents seemed to sense the shift in pace, their eyes narrowing as they tried to figure out what she was up to. As they were trying desperately to chase the lead the Kiyosumi have. But that was the beauty of Hisa's strategy: by the time they realized what she was doing, it would be too late.
It seems like Kiyosumi is full of players who plays fast, I have to build this yakuman to close the gap! One of the opponents thought.
Hisa was grinning as she discards her tile, 'They are probably thinking that Kiyosumi only plays fast and quick hands.' The player from Imamiya discarded and Hisa's grin became even wider. "Ron, 2000 please."
After a few rounds, it was clear that the match was progressing smoothly. Hisa had managed to keep her opponents at bay without drawing too much attention to herself.
As the hanchan drew to a close, Hisa rose from her seat, her usual carefree smile in place. She'd done what she needed to do—secured a solid position for the team while leaving the door open for Maho to step in and gain valuable experience. A good senpai let her kouhai's shine, Hisa thought happily.
When she went back to the team and received the congratulations Hisa's eyes drifted over to Maho, who was watching the match nervously. "Now it's up to you, Maho. Remember, just stay calm and play your game. You've got this."
Maho swallowed nervously but nodded determinedly. "I'll do my best, Buchou!"
With that, Hisa and the rest of the team watched as Maho stepped up to the table for her first taste of the tournament atmosphere.
Maho sat at the mah-jong table, her heart pounding in her chest. She could feel the weight of her teammates' expectations, and the pressure was almost overwhelming. But she was determined not to let them down—not to be outshined by Yuuki, who had played so brilliantly in the Vanguard match.
If I don't play properly, Yuu-chan will tease me and feed me more tacos! Maho took a deep breath trying to center herself, Besides…
"I have taco power too!" Maho accidentally declared out loud. When she realised what she did, she turned redder than a tomato.
At the viewing area, Yuuki can be heard saying, "That's right my brethren, tacos is the best!"
With nervousness and embarrassment mixed all together, Maho's hands trembled slightly as she reached for her first tile, her mind racing. Big, powerful hands, she thought, recalling how Yuuki had dominated the East round. That's what she needed to do—to make a strong impression and contribute to their team's success.
The tiles clicked together as they were dealt, and Maho quickly surveyed her hand. It was decent—better than she expected for her first hand—but it wasn't perfect. She would need to take some risks if she wanted to emulate Yuuki's aggressive style.
You can do this, she told herself, taking a deep breath. Just play like Yuuki. The thought gave her a sense of purpose, even as her nerves threatened to overwhelm her.
The first few turns passed in a blur as Maho focused intently on building her hand. She discarded tiles with a sense of urgency, her eyes scanning the table for any opportunity to create a winning combination. The other players were cautious, seemingly aware that Kiyosumi had been full of surprises so far, but Maho knew she had to strike before they could adapt.
Her fingers danced over the tiles, the rhythm of the game soothing her nerves slightly. She was getting closer to a winning hand—a hand that could make a statement. The adrenaline coursed through her veins as she drew her next tile, and her heart skipped a beat when she saw what it was.
This is it, she realized, her excitement barely contained. I will show Yuu-chan
With a quick glance at the table, Maho made her move, discarding a tile and declaring, "Riichi!" Her voice, though trembling slightly, carried the determination she felt.
The other players tensed at her declaration, their eyes narrowing as they recalculated their strategies. Maho's heart raced as the round continued, each draw bringing her closer to victory and somehow, she can feel it. She could feel the pressure mounting, but she refused to back down.
Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Maho drew the tile she needed. She held her breath, her hands steady as she placed it on the table.
"Ron!" she announced, her voice stronger this time. "Uh H-Haneman!"
The table fell silent for a moment as the other players processed her win. Maho's heart swelled with pride, and a wide smile spread across her face. She had done it—her first hand, and it was a big one, just like Yuuki's.
In the viewing room, her teammates erupted in cheers, their excitement palpable. Hisa's grin was as wide as ever, and Mako nodded approvingly and adjusted her glasses.
Meanwhile Yuuki is, "Show them the taco power, djey!" Being Yuuki. She is jumping around dragging Kyoutaro, who seems dead inside.
Nodoka can be seen trying to lean away from the scene her friend is causing. Embarrassment and shame can be seen on her face.
Yuuki finally noticing the scene she's making plopped back on her seat and teasingly said "Teehee" and pretended that nothing happened.
Maho reeling from her very first win in a tournament, she grew excited. I can do it again, she thought. She could feel the adrenaline pumping through her veins, her heart racing with anticipation. In her eagerness to make a big play like Yuuki, she momentarily lost focus on her surroundings and hastily declared, "Ricchi."
Maho was too caught up on her own hand that she wasn't paying enough attention on the other players' discards. Maho drew another tile which she doesn't need to complete her hand. She discarded the tile to which she heard a "Ron."
Maho froze.
Maho's heart sank as she realized her mistake. In her haste to win big, she had overlooked the possibility of dealing into someone else's hand. The opponent revealed their winning hand, a modest but solid combination that took a significant chunk of points from Kiyosumi's total.
Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment as the realization of her blunder set in Oh no, Nodo-chan and Buchou even spend their extra time to teach me. The weight of her mistake pressed down on her, making it hard to breathe. Her hands trembled slightly as she realized the gravity of her error.
She looked at her trembling hands, feeling the sting of tears welling up in her eyes. No, I can't fall apart now. Not in front of everyone, Yuu-chan will tease me. Her thoughts raced as she tried to pull herself together. I can do this, just like Nodo-chan.
Back at the viewing room, Hisa winced a little bit when she saw Maho get trapped by her own actions.
"Achaa Maho still makes beginner mistakes but it is not as often as before." Hisa declared with a hint of understanding until she said, "I will add more drills for Maho."
"You really are evil," Mako muttered.
"I guess it can't be helped. Maho only started playing mah-jong at the end of our middle school," Nodoka reasoned, "But I agree with Buchou, we need to focus on her defence."
"Not you too, Nodoka." Mako started, "This is her first competition, let's give her a break."
"At least, it wasn't chombo djey." Yuuki quipped while taking a large bite on her tacos.
How many tacos does she have in her bag? The Kiyosumi mah-jong club unknowingly thought at the same time.
Maho quickly gathered herself, determined not to let the error define the rest of her match. Maho got her tiles, "Excuse me" and spend some time on thinking about how to play her hand. When she discarded the tile, there wasn't any hesitation. She is playing logically and the way she defends her hand is perfect.
"Oho, here's Mahocchi," Hisa muttered.
"Mahocchi?" Nodoka asked intrigued and tilted her head.
"Don't you see it? She's playing like Nodocchi!" Yuuki declared while munching on tacos yet again.
Isn't that her fourth taco? Mako thought silently then reverted back her attention on their youngest member.
Maho was one tile away from winning, and it would be a big hand. Maho's pulse quickened as she considered her options. The game was tense, the atmosphere thick with anticipation, but she couldn't let that get to her.
Nodo-chan is always calm, Maho said taking a deep breath.
Maho glanced at her opponent's discards, trying to read their hands. She will show them what she's got and she will make her teammates proud.
Taking another deep breath, Maho made her decision. She drew her next tile and placed it down with a confident, "Tsumo!" The room went silent for a brief moment, the other players staring in surprise. She revealed her hand, a solid Mangan, and raked in a substantial amount of points.
The announcement of Maho's win echoed throughout the tournament hall, Maho felt a wave of relief wash over her.
As the next few rounds began, Maho's thoughts were more focused. I can't get carried away again, she reminded herself, the memory of her earlier mistake still fresh in her mind. I don't need to win big every time. I will not be giving the opponents any openings. She did a small pause, I won't let Yuu-chan tease me.
She took a deep breath, her fingers steady as she touched the tiles in front of her. The excitement of winning that big hand still buzzed in the back of her mind, but Maho knew that a reckless attitude would lead to disaster. It's not about the size of the hand. It's about not letting them score off me. Besides, Nodo-chan is gonna play right after me.
The next few hands were tense, her opponents were desperate to score off of her with big hands, but Maho tried to stay calm. She read their discards carefully just as Nodoka taught me, piecing together the patterns of their hands and recognising if they are tenpai just us Buchou drilled. Though her defensive play wasn't perfect, it was enough to avoid any major hits.
As the game moved into the South round, the pressure mounted. Maho felt her heart racing again, but this time she was ready. Okay, let's play defence she told herself. Don't let them catch you off guard.
As the turn goes, Maho's hand wasn't anything spectacular, but she could feel the rhythm of the game pulling toward its end. Her opponents were even more desperate than earlier, began gunning for huge valued hands. As she drew a tile, she felt the game narrowing to a close.
She glanced at her hand. It wasn't a big win—certainly not like her earlier Haneman—but it was enough. It's not always about the flashiest win, she reminded herself. Sometimes, a win is a win. I hope my team mates are proud of me.
Taking a steadying breath, she placed the tile on the table with calm resolve. "Tsumo," she declared quietly.
The other players looked at her in surprise. It wasn't a dramatic finish—just a small hand, enough to scrape together a few points. But in an official match like this, even a cheap win carried weight. It was a victory, and it felt just as satisfying as the bigger hands.
Maho let out a soft sigh of relief as she returned to her seat. She knew she still had a lot to learn, and her defensive play wasn't perfect, but she had managed to stay calm and avoid any major slip-ups. I didn't let them hit me, she thought. That's what matters.
She had done it—she had contributed to the team's success, and she felt incredible.
Back in the viewing area, her teammates erupted in cheers. Yuuki, of course, was the loudest, jumping up and down with excitement. "Ho-ho! My brethren! You've done so well!"
Nodoka and Mako both smiled, nodding in approval, while Hisa's grin was wide and proud. They all pointedly ignored Yuuki's declaration. However…
"Since when was she your brethren? It was Haramura-san and Buchou who taught her." Kyoutaro, not learning his lesson, muttered.
"What did youuu say?" Yuuki turned on his direction like a predator who just caught sight of its prey.
Maho coming back from her match saw the commotion building up, and asked "Is everyone okay?"
Hisa ushered her to take a seat ignoring the upcoming commotion. As she sat beside her teammates, Hisa patted her back and said "Good job, Maho!" Which each Kiyosumi member, except for Kyoutaro and Yuuki echoed with smiles on their faces.
Maho's cheeks were flushed with a mix of pride and embarrassment, but she couldn't help but smile at her teammates. The pressure had been intense, but she had risen to the challenge. As she took a seat beside her friends, the weight on her shoulders felt a little lighter.
Maho smiled back, feeling more confident now. "I'll do my best!"
Kyoutaro was lucky though because Yuuki's attention was pulled away when she noticed a huge amount of people filling in the viewing room, they were in.
"Uwaah, that is a lot of people coming in djey!" Yuuki's mouth was ajar.
Mako amused at Yuuki's short attention span said "Well, of course our captain will be playing."
Mako wasn't wrong if you listened closely on the audiences' voices you will catch on such words like 'Haramura-san's high school debut' or 'The last year's inter-middle runner ups match'
"Well, I guess you have to put on a show, Nodoka," Hisa jokingly tapping their captains' back.
"I just have to do my best for the team—" Nodoka's reply got cut off by her phone ringing.
"Eh? Who could be ringing Nodo-chan at this time?" Maho wondered out loud.
Yuuki jumped on the idea and touch her chin, "Ho-ho could it be… a boyfriend?"
Upon hearing that, Kyoutaro froze on the background.
Hisa and Mako both wearing a teasing smile both muttering, "Is it? Is it?"
Nodoka in disbelief of her team mates took a step back while excusing herself. She turned away from them without checking who was calling, she answered "This is Haramura Nodoka speaking how may I help you?"
A sound of rustling can be heard on the other end of the line, "A-ah Haramura-san, this is Miyanaga Saki, I hope I didn't disturb you, sorry for calling suddenly."
Nodoka realising who it was that was calling, her cheeks felt warm and said, "It's okay, we've got a few minutes before my match start"
Someone giggling can be heard on the other end of the line, Saki replied and said "I know! I've been watching the Nagano tournament right now. I am rooting for your team"
Nodoka's cheeks even turning more warmer when she realised that Saki was watching their game and meekly muttered, "Thank you for your support.'
"Hmm, of course!" Saki immediately said like it was simply expected of her. "Do your best, Haramura-san."
Nodoka feeling more confident than ever, "I will win."
When the phone call ended, Nodoka turned towards her team mates who were standing there dumbfounded.
Nodoka even with her slightly flushed cheeks tilted her head seemingly questioning her team mates' antics. Noticing the time and not wanting to be late for her match, she said her goodbyes to her still dumbfounded team mates and proceeded to the match.
She was stopped by the game officials who inspected her stuffed toy, Etopen, and asked for any electronics including her phone. Nodoka gingerly gave her phone to the game official with a slight blush on her face. She doesn't know if her embarrassment is due to being seen playing the Etopen or if it is because she remembered the earlier unexpected but pleasant phone call.
Back at the viewing room, Hisa was the first one to snap out of their reverie and turned on their hyper-active member, Yuuki.
"Does Nodoka actually have a lover?" Curiosity dripping at Hisa's question. She just can't place any memory or indications that suggest that Nodoka is in a relationship.
Yuuki, surprisingly was also caught off guard and unexpectantly emulating a famous mah-jong pro's words, "I don't know, djey."
The rest of the team, bar Kyoutaro who was still frozen in shock just at the mere thought of Nodoka being in a relationship, all thought Is Nodoka actually in a relationship?
On the other hand, at Shiraitodai's viewing room at West Tokyo, Awai is laughing while holding her stomach.
She at first was a little bit weirded out when Saki requested to change the channel from West Tokyo to Nagano prefectural tournament. Unlike Awai who find it boring to watch the West Tokyo's prefectural tournament, Saki usually find it rude to not even attempt to watch the West Tokyo's prefecture.
Awai noticed Saki carefully fiddling to her phone earlier, seemingly texting someone. Awai looked at Teru who just shrugged at her, which means she actually had an idea on what's going on and is letting her younger sister.
When Saki was distracted by Takami who offered her tea, Awai took her chance and swiped Saki's phone from the table.
Awai's eyes widened when she saw Saki texted someone earlier, the girl that was just about to play at Nagano prefecture. An idea struck her and dialled the number.
Saki at that moment saw that Awai got her phone, "Awai-chan!" She tried to pry the phone from her friend but she was too late…she already rung Haramura Nodoka.
Seeing as Nodoka already answered the phone, Awai quickly passed the phone to Saki.
And it was gold.
The Shiraitodai Mah-jong Club knows that Saki at her core is a very timid person but they have never seen Saki blush like a Christmas tree.
Awai started to giggle like a maniac and it was so infectious that Seiko started giggling too.
Takami who was confused on what was happening raised her eyebrows then looked at Sumire, who was disturbed from her paperwork, who just shook her head then looked at Teru.
Teru was looking at her sister, who despite the blush had a smile on her face. She was sipping the tea that Takami gave her earlier. A sliver of a smile can be found on her face, happy that Saki is happy. She reached for strawberry mochi then looked at Sumire and Takami and just slightly nodded.
Nodoka approached the mah-jong table with a calm, focused demeanour. The earlier call from Saki had given her a boost of confidence, and she felt more determined than ever to perform well for her team. As she took her seat, she hugged her stuffed penguin, Etopen, tightly for a brief moment.
What the hell is that stuffed toy? A player from East Chikuma thought, she's never had it before, is she asking for attention?
I should have brought my bunny, another player thought.
It was such an unusual sight that the announcer even wondered out loud if Haramura Nodoka has done it before to the professional mah-jong player beside her who happens to be Fujita-pro.
"Fujita-pro, what's with the penguin?" The announcer asked, clearly weirded out by the development.
"How am I supposed to know?" Fujita answered then took another bite of her katsudon.
"Well regardless of that folks, this is Haramura Nodoka's High School debut. Let's see what the inter middle runner-up can show us." The announcer professionally going back to the match.
Hisa meanwhile at the viewing room is having the time of her life. With grin so wide it might as well be a permanent fixture on her face.
"You are evil, truly." Mako quietly remarked while trying to stoop farther from their Buchou.
"Look at their faces," Hisa gestured towards everyone in the room. "It's so funny."
"Don't tell me you convinced Nodoka to hug her stuffed toy just because you think it's funny." Mako said exasperated while shaking her head.
"Hey, her game improved right?" Hisa said trying to deny the allegations despite the grin plastered on her face, "the reactions are just a bonus."
Mako convinced that Hisa thought the other way around just shook her head and brought her attention back to Nodoka's match.
The tiles were dealt, and Nodoka quickly assessed her starting hand. It was a solid hand, nothing extraordinary, but she knew that with careful play, she could turn it into a winning one. Her strategy, as always, was rooted in logic and efficiency. Nodoka prided herself on her ability to play a clean, calculated game, free from unnecessary risks.
As the game began, Nodoka's movements were precise and deliberate. She discarded tiles with confidence, each move carefully thought out. Her opponents quickly realized they were up against a formidable player; Nodoka's playstyle was methodical, almost machine-like, just like her screen-name 'Nodocchi' from net mah-jong
In the viewing area, the Kiyosumi team watched intently. Hisa's grin as wide as ever when she heard someone from the audience how Nodoka was playing and another commented that "Kiyosumi was on the lead even before Haramura-san played."
Hisa thought, that's right…Kiyosumi is a team you don't underestimate.
"She's playing perfectly," Mako noted, adjusting her glasses. "She's not giving them any openings."
Hisa nodded, a proud smile on her face. "That's Nodoka for you. She's always so calm and collected."
Yuuki, who had been munching on yet another taco, paused to cheer, "Go Nodo-chan! Show them what you've got!" Yuuki amazingly passed one taco to Maho.
Back at the table, Nodoka continued to dominate. Her logical approach to the game was paying off; she had already won several hands, steadily accumulating points. She wasn't focused on winning big hands like Yuuki or Maho; instead, she aimed for consistent, reliable wins that would secure her team's position.
As the game progressed into the South round, Nodoka's lead became more apparent. Her opponents were growing frustrated, unable to break through her defences or catch her off guard. She read their discards effortlessly, always a step ahead in her strategy.
Nodoka's heart remained steady, her mind sharp. She wasn't just playing for herself; she was playing for her team, for her friends who were counting on her. The memory of Saki's encouragement earlier fuelled her determination.
Finally, the game reached its climax. Nodoka was one tile away from winning her final hand, a simple yet effective combination that would solidify her team's lead. She drew her tile, and with a calm, steady hand, placed it on the table.
"Tsumo," she announced, her voice clear and confident.
The room fell silent as she revealed her hand—a Mangan, enough to secure a decisive victory. Her opponents stared in disbelief, unable to comprehend how they had been so thoroughly outplayed.
In the viewing room, her teammates erupted in cheers. Yuuki was the loudest, of course, practically bouncing off the walls in excitement. "Nodo-chan, did it! Perfect game!" Maho is jumping along with her, chanting "Perfect game! Perfect game!"
Mako and Hisa both smiled, nodding in approval.
The announcer raving about the match said, "Aaaand we've seen it folks, Haramura Nodoka's shown us a perfect game! Is it just me or her play improved so much from last year, Fujitai-pro?"
"That she did," Fujita-pro replied while taking another bowl of katsudon. "She played a solid game of mah-jong with no mistakes."
The announcer wondered, "What do you think triggered it?"
Fujita-pro paused mid chewing then swallowed the katsudon in her mouth, "the penguin." She said seriously. The announcer just looked at her then proceeded to announce, "There you have it, Haramura Nodoka's High School Debut."
As Nodoka stood up from the table, she felt a wave of relief wash over her. She had done it—she had played a perfect game, a satisfying walked back to the viewing room, where her teammates were waiting with wide smiles and open arms. Hisa was the first to greet her, placing a hand on her shoulder.
"Great job, Nodoka," Hisa said, her voice filled with pride.
"Yeah, that was amazing, Nodo-chan!" Yuuki added, practically jumping into Nodoka's arms.
Mako gave a small nod of approval, while Maho's eyes sparkled with admiration. "You were incredible, Nodo-chan!"
Nodoka smiled softly, her cheeks slightly flushed from all the attention. "Thank you, everyone. I just did what I had to do."
But deep down, she knew that this victory was more than just another win—it was a testament to her growth as a player, and a reminder of the support she had from her team and her friends. And as she looked around at their smiling faces, she felt a warmth in her heart that told her she was exactly where she belonged.
Hisa teasingly asked Nodoka, "Don't you have to call someone now?"
Nodoka cheeks turned flushed so quickly, surprisingly though she excused herself.
The Kiyosumi Mahjong Club watched as Nodoka whipped her phone up and press a few buttons. Mako even removed her glasses, cleaned it, and put it back on out of disbelief on what is happening.
Curiosity eating up the whole team, they made sure they were around earshot. "This is Haramura Nodoka speaking, may I please speak to Miyanaga Saki-san?"
Hisa's jaw dropped, totally not expecting the subject of the call. Hisa mouthed, "Did you just hear that?" She made eye contact with Mako who looked just as surprised. Of course, the youngest ones, Yuuki and Maho just looked confused on what's happening.
Note: This is a long chapter. I tried to be more specific with the games but I felt like I'd rather deal with calculus while writing it.
I hope you enjoy it. I also want to thank Alice Krululu Diablos for following the story. Honestly, the name reminds me of the wall climbing anime but if I'm wrong then cheers!
