The Volleyball Genius

by Whitewolf52

I don't need validation, His legacies will be written in the victories he earns, not the praises he receives. I don't need sympathy, Pity doesn't change the game. AND I don't need the sentiment, They're nothing but distractions on his way to the top. No one can touch me. He's already in a league of his own. Because I am the best. This is the truth not many can accept.

5. Chapter 5

Chapter 4

Saturday Lil'Tykes Volleyball Classroom

1

8:15 AM...

3rd Person P.O.V

It was another bright and lively morning in the Lil'Tykes Volleyball Classroom. Ikkei Ukai himself was up and teaching an early Volleyball routine for the kid's that were present. Tossing the ball around and letting them spike it.

Yū: "I thought Naruto-chan was gonna be teaching us how to do that killer serve he promised.." He was disappointed. Holding a ball and bouncing it around.

Ukai: "Naruto's a busy kid.. When you grow up, you'll understand why he's like that.. The amount of work a high schooler gets is way more than what you think.." He informed in a reassuring manner, tossing the ball towards the left where another kid was supposed to spike it but missed.

"Hey, move your legs faster!"

•••

Naruto P.O.V

'.. what a dumb idiot..' He was getting annoyed. Pissed, to be exact. Looking at the two identical people through a laptop screen while writing something down.

Naruto: "I'm not gonna repeat this again, so you better listen.. A sequence in which term after the first is formed by adding a fixed number, or what we identify as the common difference ( d ), is called an Arithmetic sequence.. It's not that hard.." He explained sternly, slightly angered over the fact that the guy on the opposite side of the screen couldn't get it.

Π? Laptop : "Give me another easy example, Naruto-kun- Also, shut 'yer trap! You're not the one who's struggling' here!." A guy with golden yellow hair yelled to the person beside him.

ΠΠ? Laptop : "But you are dumb.. Naruto's literally given you like thirteen examples now.. And you didn't even get one.. That's embarrassing.." The two of them kept bickering like idiots.

See, Naruto is a very, very patient person. But when it comes to having a quick study group with these two every Saturday, there comes a time he just pop.

Naruto: "I'll just send you the file Atsumu, you can go study on your own.. Osamu-kun, I'll send it to you aswell.. Be sure to memorize page 12, it has everything you two need.."

Osamu Laptop : "Sure-" The guy with grey hair was cut short by the loud guy who sat beside him. Atsumu pushed Osamu off the chair in a way to silence him.

Atsumu Laptop : "-WAAIITTT! How the hell am I supposed to do that, Naruto-kun!? I need your frickin' help!"

Naruto: "I've been helping you with Math since junior high.. And we're in high school now, you should learn how to figure things out on your own.. It's either that, or you stop playing Volleyball.."

Atsumu Laptop : "BUT-" Naruto pressed the 'end call' button, successfully shutting him up. A sigh left his mouth before opening another tab, where he sent them the file. Multiple notifications came from one of them, and you were absolutely sure it was from that crackhead again.

But he chose to ignore it and just moved on.

'.. Now then, the debate for English.. The topic is... Love vs Money..' he looked through website to website, searching up things related to the theme, writing a whole lot of things down on his notepad and continuing on.

-•-•-•-

Timeskip Monday - English Class • 6:51AM

Second year, Class 1's room. It was really lively. Students were in their separate mini groups, chatting amongst each other about random topics. Some were carefree, while some were preparing for the activity that should happen any minute now.

Mrs. Minaho: "All right, Class 1, settle down!" She entered the room, carrying multiple paper and files.

Naruto P.O.V

Here we go.

"I've graded all the submitted test papers, And I am stoked to tell you guys, that there is someone here who received a.. perfect score.. with a mark of 40/40... Mr. Uzumaki!" She announced, holding your test paper up that had the number forty written on it in red.

Clapping and cheering were heard from everyone around, but to you, it was just another day in class, And you'd rather die than look happy.

'.. What's a failing grade anyways?..'

Mrs. Minaho: "Congratulations, Mr. Uzumaki. Would you like to say a few words to the class before we get started onto today's activity?.." All the pairs of eyes were now onto him, anticipating for his answer.

'.. you're all trash..'

Naruto: "... pass.." he stated apathetically. Ignoring the deadpans of everyone around. A sigh of dismay left the teacher's mouth before she re-developed her cheery attitude again.

Mrs. Minaho: "Okay! Let's move on then! As I've informed you all, last meeting, we've discussed things about communicative texts, dialogues, rhetorical questions, thesis statements and such.. And I hope you've all done and finished your readings regarding page 69.. Formulating a statement of opinion or assertion.. Now, before our exciting debate, I'd like to discuss a few things first!"

Like any teacher, Mrs. Minaho gave a short and quick discussion related to other topics that surrounds the essence of making a debate, like argumentative speech, texts and whatever there is to it.

Mrs. Minaho: "Now that, that's done with, I'd like it if the class split up into two groups, girls on the left, and boys on the right.." She requested. Everybody stood up and did what she wanted, the sound of chairs getting quickly dragged across the room towards another side clashed amongst each other, making multiple screeching noises.

When it stopped, everyone was finally seated and divided into two groups.

Girls vs Boys.

Mrs. Minaho: "For our topic, Love vs Money.. I assume everybody has done their research aswell?" She asked for assurance, earning a few nods from a couple of students and a look of worry from the others.

"All right, this will be an unofficial debate, only for fun and educational purposes. Girls shall represent Love and Boys with Money, any volunteer is allowed and appreciated, please remember to speak with the quality of behaving or speaking in such a way as to avoid causing offense, in simpler words, discretion.."

"Debate winners will receive an exemption from the soon-to-come Performance Task, which is something related to dancing for the soon-to-be school festival..."

'..easy pass..'

"Well, I'm screwed in every way possible" Kinoshita

Mrs. Minaho: "Now then, Let us begin, starting with the girls' side.. Any volunteers?" She began, looking towards the ladies side where 4 people stood up all at the same time.

"And from the boys?" She finally asked. As if on cue, only one person stood up.

Mrs. Minaho: "Only Naruto?.. Do note that this is a big chance to exclude yourself from dancing infront of the whole school-"

Naruto: "Only myself is fine, Mrs. Minaho.. I'll gladly represent all the boys for this debate-"

Hagakure: "Don't get cocky.. I might just put you out of your place, Mr. Smarty Pants.." She cut him off, standing pridefully along with three other girls.

"WHATTT! The top 1 of the class vs the top 2, 3, 4, and 6! This is the battle of the intellectuals, truly! I feel like I can't intervene this time... Sorry Naruto! You're on your own here.." Kinoshita

Naruto: "What even gave you the idea I was being cocky? I was merely stating the truth, I am enough to take on all four of you, and because I don't really wanna dance.."

Girl3: "Ooh?.. Better get your dancing shoes clean and shiny, because-"

Naruto: "-If that's your idea of an insult, then I would suggest shutting up, instead of making yourself look bad..." he stated bluntly and with a blank expression as if unaware of hurting the girl's feelings.

Girl3: ".. I-"

Mrs. Minaho: "-You guys! Focus!.. Didn't I just say to speak with discretion?! That's strike one for both sides, two more and we can all kiss the exemption goodbye.."

Naruto & Others: "Right!.."

Mrs. Minaho: "..*clears throat*.. Okay! Let's begin.. Money and Love are two big topics that often get debated on. For some, they think that money is more important because without it, relationships will fail. On the other hand, some people think that love is more important, and the reason being that money can't buy love, and love makes the world go 'round.."

"For those who believe that money is more important, they say its the glue that keeps couples together, without money, they can't buy estates to move in together, without money, they can't watch movies in theaters, go for date nights, without it, family planning and building is void.."

"Now, what about love? Isn't love supposed to be the most important? Since money can't buy it.. Without love, people will be empty inside, people will feel incomplete, more importantly, there won't be anyone to celebrate with you even if you had all the money in the world... So does this make love more important than money?"

"In order to find out, I will have both sides argue on this.. Whether money or love is more important, delve deeper into each component and convince us which is more important.. Girls, you may begin.."

Hagakure: "With pleasure.. *clears throat*.. Love is more important than money because it can be described as a feeling, an emotion.. and also a way of life.. It allows you to connect with others, it may seem like common sense, but it is and will always be the key to the functioning of the society as a whole.."

Girl2: ".. Love is the best feeling in the world, those who are lucky enough to experience it are the happiest people.. Money should never be compared to it because love is endless and yes, money cannot buy love!"

Girl3: "I agree. For me, Love is all sweet and rosy, it always wins because-"

Naruto: "-I disagree.." he blurted out, catching everybody's attention. Their eyes were locked on him, anticipating his words.

"If you fell in love with a poor person, would you stay with him because 'love always wins'?.. Assuming I can have both love and money, and I chose money... Would that make me a gold digger? money-minded? Perhaps shallow?"

Hagakure: "No, that's-"

Naruto: "-You said Love is more important than money, Have you met people who suffer in poverty? If love was all you needed to be happy in life, then they would be the happiest and most content people on the planet.. But they're not.. Because they have little to no money, and because of that they're suffering.."

Girl2: "Even if they possess little to no money, but they do have love, then it should suffice to make them happy, because Love is-"

Naruto: "-endless?.. really? This is a senseless and mediocre argument, have you ever heard of separation and divorce? Those things that break people apart?" He argued, finally tensing the atmosphere up to a new level.

He and the girls stared at each other immensely, giving chills for the spectators. The debate went on like this until a side had finally won.

-•-•-•-

Timeskip Monday - Break • 12:01PM

The bell rang, signaling the end of the current class session. Multiple students rushed out of all the organized classroom in a disorganized manner. Rushing towards the cafeteria to conduct the hour-long leisure time.

Kinoshita: "I can't believe that just happened.." He cheered very silently, walking beside his introverted bestfriend, who just stared off the far distance and seeming to remain listening after exhausting his whole vocabulary winning a debate.

"But seriously, I'm really flabbergasted that you took them on by yourself, and won! Now I can forget about dancing infront of the whole school." Yes, you won the argument and earned the exemption for all the boys. Everybody - on the male side - actually cheered after.

Kinoshita: "Who knew you'd be willing to fight for something, I'm impressed and proud!"

Naruto: ".. huh, what gave you the idea, I volunteered for you, and the others? I only did that for myself, and you guys just happened to be affected by it, that's all.."

Kinoshita: "Oh c'mon, don't act all cruel now.."

Naruto: ".. cruel? If you think thats cruel then you're delusional, because I'm just saying what I know is true.."

Kinoshita: "Spoken.. like a true apathetic, that's great.." He chuckled sheepishly. Patting Naruto on the shoulder multiple times while walking to the Cafeteria with him.

Naruto: "I did not.."

Kinoshita: "You did..."

Naruto: "Did not.."

"... You did"

"I didn't.."

"You did though.."

"I didn't..."

-•-•-•-

Timeskip Saturday - Practice • 5:23AM

Naruto: "I'm heading out.." he boredly announced, looking at the old man who sat on a couch sipping coffee and watching the television.

Ukai: "To play Volleyball? That's surprising'.." He commented after seeing him in the Karasuno Volleyball team jacket. A smirk formed on his face before waving him off.

Naruto: ".. no, training camp.." he stated bluntly, showing him a medium sized bag that had nothing but clothes and toiletries in.

Ukai: "And your return?"

Naruto: "Blame Ojisanfor that.."

Ukai: "Hmmmm... Well, off you go, son.." Slightly, you flinched and perked up at the same nickname he calls him everytime.

Naruto: ".. *sigh* I'm still not used to that.." he mumbled with the same tone, exiting the vicinity while Ukai still had that same smile on his face, watching hom figure disappear.

-•-•-•-

• 9:01AM

The training camp's volleyball court, the place where all the magic happens says the players. It was still really early, yet the place was already uncomfortably lively, atleast for Naruto , that is.

'.. Ugh, he's yelling again.. how annoying..'he uttered in thought, standing beside the others and watching the ongoing practice that was occurring as of the moment.

Ukai: "In front, In front!" He yelled, standing on a table by the left side of the net and tossing a ball then spiking it towards someone named Yamaguchi Tadashi.

The guy was overwhelmed by anxiousness which caused him to fail a receive.

"HEY! How many times will it take for you to get it right!? Focus!" He scolded so loudly to the point that it was really embarrassing to get yelled at.

Yamaguchi: "One more.." He requested hesitantly, another ball was tossed to the coach again.

K. Ukai: "Here it goes!" He warned, spiking that same ball as Yamaguchi finally made a good receive by diving in.

Hinata: "Nice on, Yamaguchi!".

Daichi: "Nice receive!"

Kiyoko: "Five successful balls, next player.." She informed, handing another volley ball to the coach as the next player moved forward.

Naruto: "..*sigh*.. Right.." he boredly corresponded, moving forward and crouching down to prepare for a receive.

K. Ukai: "Here goes!" He warned, aiming directly at Naruto head and spiking the ball, in a flash, a split step motion was taken, moving back as his hands subconsciously moved into a receiving stance, correctly and perfectly receiving and sending the ball back to the Setter's position.

Hinata: "Ooooh! Nice one, Naruto-san!"

...

Daichi: "All right! Let's move to the sleeping quarters!" He yelled loudly after a tiring practice day. The others responded in agreement but with different tones, all ranging from cheerful to tired ones.

Hinata: "Ooh! Is this where we'll be staying at?!" He was thrilled, looking at a vicinity that was a bit smaller than the volleyball court. It didn't look like a hotel, nor did it look like a house. The word that would describe it was...

Naruto: "A warehouse?.. that's odd.."

...

Hinata: "Ooohhh!" He awed, sliding the doors open and revealing the sleeping quarters.

...

"Ooohhh!" He awed again, now opening the doors to the public bathroom, which held a lot of different stuff inside used for bathing.

...

"Oooohhh!"

Kageyama: "Calm down.." He reminded, standing behind the orange haired guy with his hands stuffed in his pockets.

Hinata: "Well, it's my first training camp, after all!" He still cheered, looking at the latter happily as Naruto , Kinoshita, Tsukishima and Yamaguchi entered the background.

'.. Ugh, surrounded by dirty and sweaty guys all day, what's so great about that?..' Naruto thought in disgust, looking at the first year duo from earlier.

Tsukishima: "Surrounded by dirty and sweaty guys all day, what's so great about that?" He unknowingly repeated, a sudden fiery background appeared behind him.

Nishinoya: "You little brat, Tsukishima!" He irked in annoyance and also in a playful manner.

'.. Wow, look who spoke..'

"Kiyoko-san is within 500m of the vicinity. It's not dirty at all, okay?!"

Naruto: ".. It is.."

Nishinoya: "Hah?! How can you not understand how refreshing this space is? I pity you~.." He said while sniffing the air.

Naruto & Tsukishima: "Disgusting.. seriously disgusting.." The both of you mocked in unison and with monotone voices, which made the others hold their laugh in, while Nishinoya fumed.

Sugawara: "Shimizu lives nearby, she'll be going home once she's done.." He informed so suddenly, overwhelming the Libero, who crashed on the floor in a parallel manner, while Sugawara walked away penguin-style.

Naruto also walked off without a care, Kinoshita followed behind, silently laughing while the others just stared at the guy on the ground.

...

The doors to the dining hall opened, revealing Takeda who was dressed in a white bandana and a same colored apron, he perked up in confusion and surprise after seeing a skin and bone guy on the ground.

Takeda: "W-what are you doing?" He asked. Nishinoya looked up towards him.

Nishinoya: "Takeda-chan.. I'm about to–" He cut himself short after seeing a familiar beauty appear infront of him. The once skin and bone figure he held returned to normal.

...

Hinata: "Oooohhh!" He cheered annoyingly again. Seeing the large portion of different foods lined up in an organized fashion on the table.

Everybody: "Thank you for the food!" They all exclaimed in gratitude, but with different tones and voices again.

Kageyama and Hinata began stuffing their mouths like there was no tomorrow, as well as Nishinoya. Meanwhile, Naruto and Tsukishima ate slowly like normal people while the others also talked about stuff which Naruto definitely wasn't interested in.

Kiyoko: "Who wants a second serving?." She offered, looking at the boys while holding a wooden spoon.

Nishinoya: "Thank you for the food!" He held his empty plate infront of Kiyoko, asking for a second serving.

Naruto: "I'd like another one too, please.. but don't fill it in too much.." he also mumbled, holding his own plate as Nishinoya sent a smirk at him.

Kiyoko took Naruto plate first even though the other guy came earlier. He looked at him with death behind him as Naruto just sent a mocking smirk back his way, then walked off after retrieving food.

...

'..shut up, shut up, shut up, shut up~' Naruto redundantly irked in his thoughts, hearing Nishinoya ranting about what occurred earlier with Kiyoko and he was mad jealous.

Currently, Naruto body and head were half sunken into the warm and nice hot spring water with a damp towel placed on his head. Blowing bubbles while he tried to ignore the shorty who was 'rapping'

Kinoshita was beside him, also looking at the pissed Nishinoya. Meanwhile, Narita and Ennoshita just laughed at his and Naruto antics.

Ennoshita: "Pfft~ what'd you do, Naruto?.." He wheezed, receiving a shrug from him as he began chuckling again.

Nishinoya: "Hah?!–"

...

In the halls, a towel slung over Naruto head while walking in his casual clothing along with Kinoshita who also did the same, except a towel was slung over his shoulders.

Kinoshita: "Ahhh~ that was a nice bath, right?" He asked, earning a 'tch' sound from Naruto before getting smacked on the shoulder, making him cackle.

Surprisingly, the both of you noticed the familiar figure of Hinata, who stood there staring at something.

Kinoshita: "Hinata? It's the first-years' turn to use the baths.." He informed but received no reply, a raised brow came from Naruto with the absence of his voice.

Naruto: ".. is something wrong?.." he asked, a sudden ominous, yet eerie atmosphere filled the place as he spoke.

Hinata: "There... There's a stranger among us.." He mumbled along with a creepy tone, Kinoshita acted sheepishly while it didn't bother Naruto at all.

Kinoshita: "Haha~ there shouldn't be.. We're the only ones staying h-here–"

Hinata: "–It's... a child.." He turned around with a highly creeped out face, and that was enough to make Naruto 'snap'.

Naruto: "Nah, nah.. n-no way... yeah, I'm going.. I've had enough foolishness for one night, I–" he and Kinoshita turned around, immediately seeing a figure of a kid. Hinata and your bestfriend screamed with horror as if they were women. While Naruto face was filled with drooping lines from shock.

Nishinoya: "What are you screaming about? Daichi-san will get mad." He questioned, full of confusion after their screaming died down.

Kinoshita: "..It was just Nishinoya." He remarked, smacking Hinata playfully on the scalp as a relieved sigh left your mouth.

'.. stupid idiots..'

Hinata: "Noya-san? B-But... Noya-san grew shorter!" He pointed out, as Naruto and Kinoshita noticed it too and began laughing out loud, well, Naruto , not much.

Kinoshita: "Bahahahahahaha! That's true! Your hair adds to your height!" He mocked, still laughing with Hinata.

Nishinoya: "Kinoshita, you bastard! Naruto, you too! Don't laugh! It's not funny!" He angrily yelled loudly before an unknown figure appeared from behind him, placing a hand on the latter's shoulder.

Asahi: "Don't make so much noise... Daichi will get mad–" Though it was unintentional, he said those words in a horrifyingly scary tone, causing Nishinoya, Kinoshita, and Hinata to scream from fear. While Naruto developed the same drooping lines on his expression from shock.

"It's me, Asahi!"

Daichi: "You guys! Shut up!"

...

The Next Morning..

The same routine was taken, and it was receiving practice. Ukai, the one with spiky yellow hair, hit the ball harshly towards the current underdog of the practice get-go. He seemed to miss the spike Ukai launched at him, causing the guy to yell again.

K. Ukai: "You're stalling! Don't swing your arms!" He advised, now standing on a table by a net, while Takeda and Kiyoko stood just beside it.

Hinata: "Right! One more!" He requested, just as lively. Ukai tossed the ball into the air and spiked it into a certain direction, which Hinata took notice of and dived in to intercept it back up.

Nishinoya: "Nice, Shoyo!" He praised, standing beside Naruto and Kinoshita.

Kiyoko: "That's five successful receives.."

K. Ukai: "All right, that's the whole rotation.. Next, running!"

Everybody: "Right!" They all replied with various tones, and headed towards the doorway and exited.

Kageyama: "Hurry up, you moron.." He hustled, waiting for Hinata to wear his running shoes while Nishinoya did the same. Then they ran off to who knows where.

...

Takeda: "They sure have a lot of energy, even though they have to train during summer vacation.." He began, watching everyone else disappear from his view.

K. Ukai: "I saw Kageyama & Naruto jogging at dawn. that brat doesn't know when to stop.." He remarked, taking a sip off his sports tumbler.

Takeda: "Ahhh.. Hinata-kundid too, he said it was because there's no mountain crossing at the lodge..."

K. Ukai: "Mountain Crossing? That's why he's got all that stamina.."

Takeda: "... Are you... worried about picking members for the match?" Finally, he asked the question Ukai was dying to never hear. The coach looked down in guilt before letting an ambiguous sigh out.

K. Ukai: "I'm undecided... about the Setter... In terms of ability and skill, I suggest selecting Kageyama.. Sugawara-san'sexperienced, and he's probably played with an Ace in his first year.. However, Kageyama is exceptionally talented to surpass all that experience in no time.. But, Sugawara has been playing all this time.. His teammates depend on him.." He admitted. walking over to a volley ball and grabbing it up. Takeda and His eyes widened after a familiar voice interrupted in.

Naruto: "Perhaps.. the reason why you can't decide, Ojisan, is because Sugawara-sanis in his third-year.. And it'll be his last chance to play in high school.." he pointed out, earning looks of shock from both adults.

Takeda: "Oh! I.. I think you're overstepping bounds, Naruto-kun-"

K. Ukai: "No, He's exactly right.. When.. I was in my third year of high school, I was a starting member only once, when our younger official Setter couldn't play.. I remember the anguish I felt when i wasn't picked to play..." He reminisced, looking down in disappointment as a sigh left Naruto mouth.

Naruto: "As long as you're the temporary coach now, you can't base your decision on a player's feelings.. Pick what's best for the team, not for an individual.." he reminded lastly, walking off and outside the door to run along with the others.

...

—•—•—•—

Timeskip Sunday - Jogging • 9:45 AM

Naruto and Kinoshita, along with the other second years ran together, infront of Daichi, and the other third years. Much to Naruto exasperation, Hinata and Kageyama were hollering, doing their best to pass each other in the exercise.

Daichi: "Hinata! Kageyama! Don't yell unnecessarily.. it'll sap your strength.." He reminded just as loud as the tangerine kid. Receiving no response of apology or agreement, Hinata ran even quicker, surpassing even Kageyama, who was competing with the guy, himself.

3rd Person P.O.V

Before Hinata even knew and noticed it, because of all his roaring, he was now in the middle of nowhere by an alley of wherever.

Hinata: "Nobody's.. coming.. *pant*.. Did I... get lost?" He panted, clearly confused as the sound of a meowing cat caught his attention. When his gaze landed upon the source, he raised an eyebrow.

There sat a guy who wore an all red outfit with a bag behind him. He was depictedwith an average height, a small build, and has an unsteady posture. As well as his outstanding features,including his cat-like golden eyes and blond hair with black roots. He appeared to be doing something usual with his phone.

"Bright red jackets? You don't see those around here.."Hinata

Hinata: "What are you doing?" He asked politely. Making the introverted guy flinch after hearing the extroverted guy's voice. Hinata approached the unknown guy casually as if he knew the latter.

Π?: "Um... I'm lost.." He answered ever so slightly.

Hinata: "Huh? You're from out of town?.." He questioned again, as if doing an interrogation. Meanwhile, the stranger nodded and moved away in a gesture to try and avoid the guy with all his might. But unfortunately, Hinata missed the message and still went on.

"Is that thing fun?" He jumped and squatted beside the stranger, looking at his phone.

Π?: "N-not exactly.. I'm just passing time.." He replied, still scrolling through his phone.

Hinata: "Oh... AH! Are you a volleyball player?!" The boy perked up with an expression full of shock and disbelief while his eyes darted towards a specific item that gave away the stranger's 'hobby'.

Π?: "Huh?"

Hinata: "Those are volleyball shoes!" He exclaimed so cheerfully, happily pointing towards the yellow-haired guy's accessory which was stored slightly inside a bag.

Π: "Oh. Yeah."

Hinata: "I'm in the Volleyball Club, too! Hinata Shoyo!" Now, he finally started with his introduction, gesturing and pointing to himself, still with that outgoing demeanor.

Π?: "... Kozume..."

Hinata: "Kozume? That's your name?"

Π? "Kozume... Kenma.." He also stammered, hesitating whether he should state his full name or not. Hinata just had a smile on his face, thinking he had made a random friend.

Hinata: "So you're Kenma. Are you in high school?" He asked, receiving a slight nod from the latter as his smile grew even wider.

Kenma: "Yeah.."

Hinata: "Really?! What year? I'm a first-year!"

Kenma: "I'm second year.."

Hinata: "Crap! You're older! Pardon me!" He flinched, standing upright and apologizing to the nearly silent guy, whose eyes were still locked on the phone.

Kenma: "Don't worry, I don't really like that kind of status stuff in athletics.." He assured as the latter let a sigh of relief out.

Hinata: "Oh, is that so?... Um, do you like volleyball?"

Kenma: "Not particularly, I kind of just do it... I don't dislike it, but I don't like getting tired.. But my friends play, and they can't probably do it without me.." He rambled on, Hinata leaned on the railings behind him, just agreeing to what he said.

Hinata: "Ooooh, I think it'll be more fun if you get to like it.."

Kenma: "I don't care.. It's only while I'm in high school.."

Hinata: "What position do you play?"

Kenma: "...Setter" He answered as the other guy awed in surprise.

Hinata: "Really? You're a little different from our Setter... Ours is a little more... GAAHH! intense." He tried mimicking Kageyama, and did an impression of him. Obviously failing yet it looked accurate. How? no clue.

"I'm a Middle Blocker!" He exclaimed, holding his arms and moving into a tip-toe position.

Kenma: "Wow..." He wondered with a not-so-interested tone while looking at the orange haired kid.

Hinata: "Do you think it's weird? It's a position for tall guys.."

Kenma: "I guess, but I don't really think that.." He began, looking away from Hinata and back to his phone before resuming to speak.

"I get told stuff a lot when I go to matches, they say 'The Setter is for the most talented players, so why him?'... Because I'm not very athletic to begin with."

Hinata: "Oooh, then, hey, is your team good?" He asked as an ominous atmosphere engulfed the both of them, but he failed to notice again.

Kenma: "Well, I heard we were good, a long time ago... But, we fell into decline.. Recently, though.. I think we're pretty good.." He answered seriously with a creepy smile, looking back towards Hinata who had a shocked expression when he began connecting the puzzles together.

Hinata: "... What is your scho-" He was cut off when another voice joined in. The sound of another man who wore a black T-shirt while also holding his red jacket.

He appeared to be tall and lean with broad shoulders, well-built arms, and a muscular frame. He possessed narrow, hazel colored eyes with cat-like pupils that make him appear sly and intimidating. His black hair was naturally messy and spikes upward. He also had a fringe on his right side that partially covers his eye. As a result of his peculiar hairstyle.

Kenma: "Oh, Kuroo.." He stood up, carrying his bags and walking towards his friend.

"Bye... See you later, Shoyo.." He waved before resuming to move away with the other guy that just made his appearance.

Kuroo: "Don't go wandering off by yourself.." He advised, walking beside the shorter male.

Kenma: "Sorry.."

Kuroo: "We're strangers to this area, you have to be careful." Their voices decreased as they moved off. Speaking of which, Hinata tilted his head in confusion at Kenma's words.

"See you later?..."Hinata

The orange haired boy suddenly yelped, feeling a stinging pain collide with his head. He looked back to see his fellow senior who was beyond angry.

Naruto: "You have some nerve, running off like that... And to think they actually talked me into getting you, how annoying.."

Naruto P.O.V

Hinata: "M-MY APOLOGIES!" He stuttered, bowing his torso down as a sigh left Naruto mouth.

Naruto: "Yeah, whatever.. The Sun's too hot for this, get goin-" he was cut short, seeing two familiar figures at the far distance, conversing with each other. His expression perked up once more before a smirk appeared on it. Then, you also began walking back with Hinata close behind.

'So.. they're actually here..Nekoma..'

...

—•—•—•—

Timeskip Monday - Practice • 7:02 AM

Everybody was gathered around Ukai inside the court. The coach held a clipboard that held a piece of paper showcasing something relevant to the soon-to-be event.

K. Ukai: "For the Nekoma battle, this will be our starting order.." He informed. The positions were expected, and it was made so Narutowas serving first. Asahi and Daichi were assigned to the left wing. Naruto and Kageyama by the left, Hinata, Tsukishima and Nishinoya in the middle.

"It's a configuration you're barely used to, so I'm not expecting you guys to synchronize right away.. We now have an amazing Libero, and the Ace has returned, but don't rely on those facts and think that victory is secured... Victory goes to the team that connects! Let's see how this configuration works in the battle against Karasuno's long-standing rival, Nekoma!"

Everyone: "Yeah!" They all replied in agreement and as usual, with different tones.

...

Practice was somehow soon to begin, Ennoshita was pushing a volleyball ball cart. Kiyoko and Takeda were discussing something. Naruto was warming up with Kinoshita through passing a volley ball with each other, and Asahi stood in the middle of it all.

Nishinoya: "Asahi-san.." He called, placing his hands on his hips as the bearded guy looked towards the source with a few sweatdrops.

"I needn't mention Suga-sanof course, but you're probably feeling sorry for Ennoshita-sanand the others, too, aren't you?" He pointed out as Ennoshita himself flinched and looked in nervousness.

Ennoshita: "W-What?"

Nishinoya: "The strong stand on the court, That's how it is.." He declared in a prideful manner, standing in assurance as Asahi was taken aback.

Ennoshita: "Um, Asahi-san..I can't say that I've been a dedicated player.. There was a time I quit, even, So-"

Nishinoya: "-If they become stronger than the Ace in mind and body, they will rightfully steal the regular position out from under you, Asahi-san.. Right, Chikara?"

Ennoshita: "H-HUh? I wouldn't go that far!"

Nishinoya: "Or if a regular position were to be stolen, maybe it would be Naruto's first.." He boasted again, earning an uninterested look from him.

Naruto: "Fine by me, either way, I don't care.." he stated with a bored tone and expression, surprising the others before a chuckling session broke out.

...

The night came by really quickly. Naruto and some of the other first and second years were inside the sleeping quarters, while the others were elsewhere. Currently, he laid on his own futon, with earphones on and reading some kind of book. Ennoshita, Kinoshita, and Narita were fixing the other beds, along with Kageyama and Hinata.

Hinata: "There.." He mumbled, fixing a pillow before he spoke.

"Um, Ennoshita-san.."He called, catching the guys attention, who hummed in response.

Hinata: "What you said before practice..."

Ennoshita: "Oh, about quitting once?... You heard Coach Ukai came back for a while last year, right?"

Hinata: "Yes.."

Kinoshita: "It's pathetic, but there were a few of us who couldn't keep up with his training.." He also joined in the conversation, along with Narita and Kageyama.

Ennoshita: "The club was just for fun, 'til he came back... Then it suddenly became a club for the purpose of winning.. Those of us who were just casual players got scared and quit.."

Narita: "But we still wanted to play volleyball, and decided to come back.. But then, Coach Ukai was already gone.."

Ennoshita: "We're pathetic second-years, but we still came back.. So we want to do our best and not get left behind by you guys... So we'll say it one more time, We look forward to playing with you guys!" He declared happily, sitting beside the other second-years and infront of Hinata and Kageyama.

On the other hand, Naruto back faced them as a blank expression remained on his face, annoyed by their liveliness.

'Once a sucker, always a sucker.. there's no helping that..'

...

The Next Day...

Everybody was in their practice clothing, standing on one side of the court to another, serving volleyball balls however they wished. But they mostly used normal serving. On the other hand..

Nishinoya; "Damn it!" He was infuriated, failing to receive any of Naruto jump floaters. Most pair of eyes were locked on Naruto , as well as Kinoshita's and Yamaguchi's.

A smug expression formed on his face before throwing a ball into the air and instantly killing it's spinning movement. Hurriedly, he rushed up front, taking a three-step footwork and going straight into the lift in a ready and open position, then strongly contacting the ball with the middle of his left palm, giving it a strong and crisp finish.

Nishinoya knew it was coming, but he was too late to react as the ball was already centimeters away from his face. He still tried intercepting it though, but failed miserably.

Hinata: "WAah! Incredible! That's a hard serve to receive!" He praised, but unfortunately fell onto deaf ears Naruto ignored the shrimp.

He sent another crazy jump floater towards Nishinoya, where the guy reacted perfectly but his overhand was a mess, causing it to slip his fingers and fall onto the ground.

Nishinoya: "Damn it!" He yelled annoyed. Dropping to the ground and doing multiple, rapid push-ups with his fingers, earning a raised eyebrow from Naruto. He went back into receiving stance, calling for another serve.

This time, a serious look grew on Naruto. He held the ball with both hands, which the Libero took notice of as a cocky smile immediately formed on his face.

Naruto began by tossing the ball several feet in the air in front of him. Using an abbreviated attack approach, he ran up, swinging his hands behind, then forward, and up while stepping forward with his right foot and doing a quick hop. Jumping up and forward, making sure to take off behind the end line, contacting the ball on top of his reach and on top of his jump. Then BOOM! Striking the ball not as hard as he would with his right palm, following through with his arm swing, aiming outward to apply a topspin on the ball.

"Naruto-san's form is similar to that of Oikawa-san... Such skill.."Kageyama thought

A loud sound echoed over the court, sending chills down the others' spine as Nishinoya did intercept the ball, but because of its spin and strength, it flew off of him and outside the end line it went.

"Damn demon serve.." Nishinoya

The silence of being shocked engulfed the entire place, but it was all broken when some shuffling sounds reverberated around the area.

Kiyoko: "..They've been cleaned and adjusted.. Here are the uniforms.." She stated, gently flooring two bags full of volleyball uniforms.

...

Hinata: "Oooh! Wow! It's the one I saw on TV.. huh.." He perked up, seeing Nishinoya in a different colored outfit that was the complete opposite of his and the others.

"But Noya-sanis full orange, You stand out!"

Nishinoya: "Of course! After all, I have the leading role.."

Hinata: "Leading role?! Oooh! Amazing!" He awed with stars completely visible in his eyes.

Kageyama: "The Libero goes on and off the court frequently during the match. He's the only one that needs to be noticeable, Idiot." He informed the dumbfounded Hinata, who looked embarrassed for not knowing.

Hinata: "I know that! I totally know that!" He lied through his teeth, finally noticing the number his 'rival' had. Sudden realization hit him like a deer in headlights.

"K-Kageyama's one digit different than me.."

'Why did I know he was gonna say that..'

Kageyama: "Just be grateful we first-years get to wear a uniform at all.. "

Hinata: "I know that!"

Naruto: "Yeah, I guess you don't remember that number, because you only saw it on TV, right?"

Hinata: "Huh?"

Naruto: "Shoyo-kun, the Little Giant himself wore the #10 when he went to nationals.. It's a shame you even forgot that.." Naruto informed, wearing his own outfit that held the #5 on it.

The orange haired guy looked at his uniform number once more, before his gaze landed on the Ukai himself.

Hinata: "Coach! Was this your thoughtful idea?" He was crying tears of joy, looking at Ukai who was sheepishly smiling.

K. Ukai: "Well, no, that was pure coincidence.."

Hinata: "It's destiny then!" He exclaimed, staring back at his uniform number with stars in his eyes.

Kageyama: "It's. a. coincidence.. get it? A coincidence.."

Hinata: "Don't be jealous, Kageyama-kun." He patted the guys shoulder who basically got irritated.

Kageyama: "Why would I be jealous?!"

K. Ukai: "..*sigh*.. Not to mention, the Little Giant, who Hinata looks up to so much was here when Karasuno was in it's heyday.. Even then, Karasuno was never able to beat Nekoma.. They lost every match.. You guys will be the ones to change that!" He motivated, standing infront of everybody with a smirk.

Everyone: "Yes, sir!"

K. Ukai: ".. All right, let's continue with practice!" He commanded as everybody replied again, running back to what they were doing earlier.

...

Naruto walked towards his training bag, taking a his water bottle and drinking from it. A towel made its way above his shoulders whereas a person suddenly spoke.

Kinoshita: "So.. Naruto.. The weather's nice today, don't you think so?" He began, fidgeting around in nervousness and getting a raised brow form Naruto .

Naruto: "If you're starting small talk, then I suggest you stop.. I'm not a big fan.. be blunt and stop wasting my time.." he apathetically stated with a blank look, not caring if he stuck an insult arrow up his chest.

Kinoshita: "..*sigh*.. All right... could you.. help me practice the jump floater serve?" He requested, looking away and bracing for another barrage of 'wise' words from Naruto.

Naruto: ".. sure.."he agreed. Kinoshita was taken aback by the sudden agreement, staring at him figure which walked towards the serving position.

...

'..Hopeless.. Annoying... Suckers..' he fumed in his thoughts, but still keeping a blank expression. Apparently, he was only supposed to teach Kinoshita the jump floater, but Ukai himself told him to lecture Yamaguchi too. And that's whats happening.

Yamaguchi threw the ball into the air, taking three steps forward as he ascended into the air, hitting the ball with the middle of his palm as he sent the jump floater towards the other side of the court with ease. After performing a successful serve, he looked at Naruto for approval.

Naruto: "That was an okay, Jump floater.." he praised in a not-so-interested tone.

'.. But it's terribly ordinary..'

Next was Kinoshita, he threw the ball high enough for him to reach, a sigh left Naruto mouth when he quickly did his footwork, messing the tempo up as he hit the ball and sent it towards the other side of the court.

"Crap, now I've done it.." Kinoshita

Naruto: ".. You jumped to early and messed your timing up.. Nervous.. you were nervous again, weren't you?" He questioned, crossing your arms while glaring at the fidgety guy.

Kinoshita: "U-um, y-yeah.. I, uhm.."

Naruto: "Don't waste anymore time.. Hurry and do another.." he irked as he quickly jogged to grab another ball and comply to his command. A 'tch' sound leftNaruto mouth after remembering why he needed to teach them.

"Hey Naruto! You're teaching Jump Floating? Good.. While you're at it, do Yamaguchi me a favor and knock some sense into that first year over there... Do that, and I'll get you the next volume for that manga you read every night.." K. Ukai (Flashback)

'.. stupid old man.. you better keep that promise..'

...

3rd Person P.O.V

Now occurring, Hinata kneeled infront of his neatly folded uniform which held the #10 on it. He was somehow reminiscing, or probably feeling the honor of bearing the number his idol wore, due to his closed eyes.

Kageyama: "Hey, Hinata.. They said it's our turn to bathe.." He called the orange haired kid who sounded no response, while Tsukishima and Yamaguchi were in the background going through their bags.

"Hey, Don't get all worked up again and barf.." He said, finally making the shorter kid perk up in frustration.

Hinata: "I won't barf!... I know it goes without saying, but even if they can't play in the match, I know they still want to play... Right now, I'm only allowed to play because of your tosses, it's frustrating, but I wouldn't be allowed on my own merit." He admitted before looking up with determined eyes, grabbing his towel and standing up.

"I'm taking a bath and going to sleep right away!" Hinata ran past Kageyama, and straight outside the door, almost bumping against the second years who were making their way towards the sleeping quarters.

Kageyama: "Damn you, bastard... That was a false start!" He yelled, running after the guy and evading everyone in the hallway.

Tsukishima and Yamaguchi stood by the doorframe, watching the two of them dumbfoundedly.

Tsukishima: "Why must they compete to see who can bathe the fastest?... They're morons.." He insulted, while his friend let out a tired yawn.

Yamaguchi: "I get tired just watching them.."

Daichi: "HEY! Who's running!?" He yelled somehow, his voice boomed through the whole place making everyone who heard it flinch.

—•—•—•—

Timeskip Wednesday – Practice Match

The awaited face-off day finally happened. In the scene, a group of white volleyball shoes along with black trousers walked along the ground and towards a specific direction. They all stood aline, seeming to face off another group. They wore white volleyball shoes aswell, but their trousers appeared bright red. They also stood in line, facing off against the other.

Naruto P.O.V

Naruto stood align and in opposite of their #5. He had a bored look on his face, staring at the ground while Naruto had a blank one, staring into the sky.

'.. What's the name of that cloud again... I forgot..' he pondered, subconsciously moving with the flow of his teammates. Not acknowledging the presence of the others on the opposite side.

End