𝐒𝐄𝐕𝐄𝐍. 𝐋𝐈𝐓𝐓𝐋𝐄 𝐁𝐈𝐑𝐃
Pretty Skaters

IN THE ICE SKATING WORLD, it was easy to predict who had the season in their bag and who was going to fall behind. There were a lot of ways to tell through skaters' short program and free program. For pair skating, Minako was always certain who'd be their biggest rivals for the season and who she didn't need to necessarily worry about. Sometimes the pair who did great in the previous semester wouldn't be as good the next. Minako was quick to learn that volleyball was a bit different when it comes to judging their opponents. But there was one thing that remained the same in all sports. There is an ideal type, an ideal face, and a body when it comes to every sport. When it came to figure skating, there was a standard that all girls — like Minako — and all boys were held to. Her body always had to be slim and slender for her partner to lift and throw her around. She had to have a toned body and that meant working out every part of her body which is where ballet and pilates came into play. For volleyball it was in the form of a tall and powerful individual, someone who could use their body to their advantage when it came to receiving, spiking, and following the ball.

      Hinata Shoyo defied all those standards and set his own.

      Minako didn't have any hope for Tanaka's team. As strong of a player as her classmate is and as good as Kagemaya is, they lacked the chemistry that Tsukishima and Yamaguchi had. After a few practices of watching them play, it was clear that the pair of friends had played together before which was a lot more than Kageyama and Hinata. But to top it all off, Daichi had declared that he'd be joining the game as well which Kyoga deeply protested only to be ignored.

      Of course, Minako didn't really care who won in the end. Though Kyoga would be crushed if Kageyama didn't get to play as their setter and Tanaka would most definitely complain about it for at least a week straight, she didn't have much interest in the sport. The only time she did care was when other schools were talking badly about them and she practically forced Kyoga to beat their asses in the game.

      She may not care or know about volleyball, but she sure as hell is competitive.

      The manager walked over to where Tanaka was stretching. Both Kageyama and Hinata were talking amongst themselves as they got ready, but for the second-year wing spiker, Tanaka was surprisingly silent. Then again, she's not surprised, after all, Tanaka is one of their strongest players.

      "Hey, I have something you can do to make you feel better after you lose," Minako piped up as Tanaka finished his last set of leg stretches. She gave him a mischievous smirk as he shot her a dirty glare in return. "You can go ice skating with me."

      "Why are you so quick to assume that we'll lose?" Tanaka gruffed out as he snatched the bottle of water out of Minako's offering hand. "What if we win?"

      "Have you ever been ice skating before?" Minako asked, ignoring his question in favor of her own. She hopped onto the stage and sat with her legs dangling as she continued to watch the rest of the team prepare. "You seem freakishly uncoordinated so I wouldn't blame you if you've fallen — "

      "First off, I am not that much of a clumsy shit," Tanaka hissed as his cheeks before he pointed a finger in her direction. "Second off, why the Hell would I want to go ice skating?"

      Minako rolled her eyes but forced herself to bite down on the inside of her cheek to stop herself from smiling knowing that Tanaka would blow his head off at the sight of it. "Because, you can go with me which is a treat in itself," she teased. Although the idea of going skating with Yori annoyed her, she could probably make do if Tanaka went with her. "And it's fun."

      "You think walking on ice is fun? Maybe this is why people run away from you."

      Before she could annoy Tanaka further, the wing spiker quickly left after being called by both Hinata and Kageyama. The younger boys were buzzing with adrenaline, Hinata more than Kageyama, and their faces were split with worried expressions whereas Tanaka was overly determined and serious. As for Yamaguchi and Tsukishima they were both relatively calm — well Tsukishima is, Yamaguchi looked as though he was ready to ask for a puke bag — and it was still unknown who'd join the two first-years in this 3v3 game.

      Her money is set on either Suga or perhaps Ennoshita.

      The exhaustion from the night before still seeped into her bones, made her body heavier than she'd like, and created a dull pressure in the back of her eyes. Her contacts dried against her eyes and though she was tempted to just leave and wait until the game was over, she was in a relatively good mood. Good enough that she actually came without being asked to.

      She won't tell Kyoga that walks with Daichi relaxed her in ways that she couldn't explain. The last thing she needed was for Kyoga to get all upset and moody because Daichi was a better conversationalist than her own brother. But it made sense. Daichi barely knew the deep crevices of her hidden secrets, didn't get a proper glimpse of her at all her glory. He didn't mind the slightly broken and plain image of her that stood in front of him. Nothing about their conversations made her feel as though she was being coddled, but rather being comforted by a friend who just wanted to get her mind off of all the mind-numbing problems in her life.

      And for that, Minako couldn't be more than grateful for Daichi's friendship.

      They were friends, right?

      "You have any plans after the game?" Kiyoko brought up as she sauntered towards the other manager. She had just finished setting up the scorekeeping board as well as the extra chairs needed for both her and Minako.

      A scowl settled on Minako's delicate face as she picked at the loose threads on her athletic jacket. "Going on a double date with Kyoga and Yori," she mumbled annoyedly. "I don't even want to go but Kyoga doesn't listen to me."

      Kiyoko threw her head back and laughed, the sound filling the stuffy and brightly lit gym. "That's awful. Are you going with anyone in particular?"

      "Tanaka. I'd ask Ennoshita but he'd probably lecture me if I even looked at Yori the wrong way. At least with Tanaka, I know he'd be there to look the other way if I were to fight my brother's girlfriend."

      Slightly horrified, but Kiyoko couldn't deny that it wasn't true. Out of all the second-years, Ennoshita was the most determined to stay out of trouble in fear of any future repercussions. Tanaka and Minako on the other hand didn't care much for consequences as long as their needs were sufficed. And for the transfer student that meant ensuring that Yori Ajibana was out of her business.

      "Tanaka agreed to go?"

      "Well, no, but I'm gonna ask him after this game," Minako shrugged off. Knowing her friend he would rather run several laps around the school before he'd ever agreed to go ice skating with her. Something told her that Tanaka wasn't as coordinated on the ice as he is on the court. "Besides, he owes me. He copied my last English exam and I even helped him do half of his last homework assignment."

      The older girl hummed in amusement as the two watched the rest of the team scramble to get ready for their yearly 3v3 game for the first-years.

      "Shimizu, can you come over and help me with something?" Suga called her over. With a nod, Kiyoko wordlessly walked over to Suga, but not before flashing Minako an apologetic smile. To which she responded with a smile and a shake of the head to reassure her friend that it was okay.

      Today's a Saturday so the rink should be somewhat busy, Minako pondered to herself. She closed her eyes and tried to imagine what the rink would be like on a weekend and whether or not practicing was even an option. All her thoughts came back to were the images of whining and overdramatic children crying over the slightest fall on the ice. Not to mention what she likes to call the 'skate patrol' that'll scream her ear off for even attempting a jump near a child. It wasn't her fault that kids ignored the orange cones that cut off the middle that was strictly for practicing skaters.

      Kyoga owes me for this. I suffer another day without practice and he gets to be praised by Yori for the simple crossover he'll probably attempt. Her bitter thoughts quickly dissipated as she focuses her thoughts on yesterday night. It's fine. It's just one day. You can always practice tomorrow if you really need it.

      Just like she had shouted to the rest of Miyagi last night, she's going to be happy.

      "Minako." At the mention of her name, she was quick to turn her attention to Daichi who began to walk towards her with a small smile on his face. Minako responded with a wave as she offered him the spare bottle of water next to her. "I didn't think you'd come today."

      She shrugged, "It's not like I had anything to do anyways. Besides, I'm going out with Yori and Kyoga today."

      Daichi winced at the mention of Kyoga's girlfriend. Though he doesn't have any personal issues with Yori, he was well aware of Minako's disdain for her. After all, it was hard to miss the practical lasers that shot out of Minako's eyes whenever Yori was in the room. He doesn't know how Kyoga was so oblivious to it all, especially the time when Narita and Kinnoshita had to physically restrain Minako last semester when Yori made an offhand comment about Minako's grades.

      "Try not to kill anybody today?" Daichi jokingly requested. Minako smirked at his comment and the sight of it made Daichi's smile grew even bigger. "The last thing we need is for our manager to get suspended."

      "Oh please, I'm not that vicious. Besides, I trimmed off my fangs last week," Minako teased back as she hopped off the stage. She spun around before she walked backward. "Plus, it's more fun when I'm like this, don't you agree?"

      If Tanaka were to ever comment like that he'd probably scold him. But all he could do is laugh off her comment and shake his head in amusement.

      "Try your best, okay?" he repeated loudly. Minako pretended not to hear him, but the smile on her face told him otherwise.

      And while Daichi wasn't nervous about the game, the slight empty and light feeling in his stomach created nonexistent nerves. Perhaps it was excitement over watching how Hinata and Kageyama will play with one another. Despite not getting much sleep and figuring out possible strategies for today's game, all he could think about was the warm feeling in his chest from last night.

      Voicing out all his goals seemed like a stupid idea when he first thought about it. But he knew that perhaps making a fool out of himself would make her happier or at least crack a smile. And while the idea of comforting Minako seemed difficult and uncomfortable for them both, Daichi couldn't bring himself to just act as though nothing was wrong. Although he wasn't necessarily the best at making others feel better that didn't mean he couldn't try.

      "So, you and Minako-chan seem to be getting along well." Instinctively, Daichi snapped his head at Suga who gave the captain a cheeky smile. Before Daichi could get a word in, Suga shrugged and continued, "Not that that's a bad thing. She seems comfortable around you."

      "She's Kyoga's sister," Daichi defended himself quickly. His cheeks burned with the sudden questions and the uncomfortable feeling made his chest tightened. He couldn't help but glance over at Minako who was now helping Kinoshita and Narita set up the net.

      Suga chuckled, "Yeah, but you don't see me buying her snacks or taking her to Heartbreak Hill."

      She's Kyoga's sister, of course I need to take care of her, he told himself repeatedly. His chest grew an uncomfortable knot that made him feel almost lighter yet heavier at the same time. 

      "You're a good guy, Daichi," Suga said as he patted his shoulder. "But let me just remind you that you wouldn't buy me snacks or take me to Heartbreak Hill when I'm having an off day."

      "What are you trying to say?"

      "That Minako-chan is a great girl and friend," Suga started. His grin only grew bigger at the sight of Daichi's discomfort. He continued, "And that she's also very much single and that you're one of the few guys whose heads she hasn't torn off yet. You know, looking on the bright side and all that."

      "You also forgot that she's our friend's sister," Daichi pointed, almost as if that fact made all the difference in the world and for Daichi, it did. In his eyes, he wasn't doing anything special, just making sure his friend's sister is okay.

      "And that friend is Kyoga. You really think he's gonna get mad over you liking his sister?" Liking? When did he ever say that he liked Minako in that way? 

      She is their manager, a friend now, and through their walks and conversations he now finally has the colors to paint the image of her painting. She stopped being a monochrome piece of work and now all the hues and shades were coming together; the picture was finally coming together.

      "You're being ridiculous."

      "And you're being stubborn. Again. Sheesh, am I really the only one with brains around her?" Suga joked before he walked away with a mischievous smile on his face. 

      Even after he had left, the thoughts of his words still haunted Daichi for awhile. Liking Minako? The thought wasn't absurd, after all, it wasn't as though Minako is unlikable. Sure, while many of the people at their school like her because of her quote exoticness, they never lingered or stayed long after getting a firsthand experience of her temper. But to Daichi, her temper didn't mean she was a bad person, just a closed-off one. He's certain though that if she wasn't their manager and they hadn't gotten close because of Kyoga, he'd probably be on the receiving end of her coldness. He doesn't blame her, not only is she a transfer student but someone who's probably traumatized.

      But no one else got to see how Minako's smile lights up whenever she's happy. Or how big her eyes get whenever she gets a warm steamed red bun after practice and how she practically devours it within two bites, not caring if her tongue gets burnt. There's a lot that the people of Karasuno never got to see when it came to Minako Saito.

      Still, Daichi's happy with being one of the few people who got to see Minako like this. In a way, it was almost one of his best-kept secrets, something he wasn't sure he wanted to share with everyone else.

      His friendship with Minako was special and he's happy with where they're at.

      Suga's just being ridiculous, Daichi scoffed internally as he took off his jacket and prepared his stretches. But as he does his lunges he couldn't help but peer over his shoulder and watch as Minako threw her head back and laughed at Tanaka's aggressive pep talk to Hinata and Kageyama.

      She's my friend. And I'm okay with that.

ONE OF THE REASONS WHY FIGURE SKATING is considered a beautiful sport is an intricacy behind every move. There isn't ever a moment for a skater to take a breath, to rest. For Minako, the next four minutes and ten seconds was a continuous show where her smile needed to be impeccable and natural, the movements of her arms needed to be precise and sloppiness wasn't an option, and finally, there were the jumps. Walking on ice was a feat considered unique and unheard of, and yet man's curiosity got the best of them and they adapted. From walking on ice to creating skates that made their glide easier, to performing double and then triple jumps, and finally lifting and throwing someone in the air before catching them. Minako has never felt more beautiful than she does when she's on the ice. All eyes were on her, the audience's focus was solely following both her and Mathis and nothing else because if they were to even blink they'd miss even the smallest detail.

      She couldn't bring herself to blink or look away from the game. She wasn't the biggest fan of volleyball, but she watched enough games with Kyoga to understand what was considered good and what wasn't.

      Tanaka is a powerhouse as usual, but she wasn't the least surprised to see him all riled up. Tsukishima didn't exactly make it easier for himself with his snide remarks before the game and while many would get offended over their friends being insulted, Minako wasn't.

      They are the fallen champions and the boys were more than used to the insulting nicknames and the snarky remarks that had Minako bite back her tongue. Anybody would be protective over their friends, especially over a team that she knows works harder than anyone else. It reminded her of showcases and skating competitions where behind the scenes even the prettiest and most dolled-up girls had the cruelest words to throw at their competitors. Of course, Minako was no exception and was always able to throw the most colorful slew of insults before Mathis or their coach Anya could stop her.

      Besides, Tanaka would get worked up if Minako stepped in for him.

      But what shocked Minako the most were the words Tsukishima had used to talk about Kageyama. It was clear to everyone that perhaps one of the most naturally talented individuals on the court right now is Kageyama. From what Kyoga has told her, the first year is considered a genius, a prodigy when it comes to volleyball and she could see it in every jump and toss. Yet Tsukishima's revelation of Kageyama's faults and his flub in his last year of junior high was painful.

      Not just for him, but for her.

      Geniuses can only remain brilliant in people's eyes for so long before all the tricks up their sleeves are used up and they're grasping at strong. It wouldn't take long for the cracks on the surface to expose the dirty and messy truth under the brilliant and composed facade you took so long to make up. Soon they'll pull your layers of perfection and talent and strip you until you look like a fool whose moves were no longer seen as unique or special.

      You'll end up dull like everyone else, but what makes you stand out is that your chips of gold will still flicker every once in a while. A painful reminder that you were once better than them, that you once shone brighter than any of the people around you.

      "I'm surprised Daichi-san isn't scolding Tsukishima," Minako spoke up. Arms crossed and brows furrowed, her attention was solely on the game and the small interactions and conversations that those on the sidelines picked up. "If it was Tanaka or Nishinoya, he'd say something immediately."

      "Daichi's thinking about the long term," explained Kyoga, a faint smile making way on his face. "There's no point in taking sides if they're all going to be on a team together. Besides, it's not Daichi's problem so he doesn't need to step in."

      "But he's the captain."

      "You think it's reasonable for a captain to choose a side in a situation he's not involved in?" Minako didn't answer.

      There was an awkward and almost unbearable tension that filled the gym. Everyone fell silent, almost unsure of how to respond to Tsukishima's jabs towards Kageyama. But to their surprise, Hinata spoke up.

      Somehow his uplifting words and casual words of reassurance changed the mood for both sides. His positivity is contagious and Minako's thoughts immediately drifted back to the annoying and overbearing first-year that made her world stilled.

      Seina Arashima.

      In a way, Hinata reminded her of Seina. It was no secret that Minako's disappearance from the ice skating world is going to hurt her, that she won't be able to return and be as strong as she once was. Hell, that's if she can even return and face the skating world which meant beating everyone else who is practicing their asses off.

      Yet Seina believes in her. Just like how Hinata believes in Kageyama.

      "This should be interesting," she heard Kyoga muse.

      And then it happened. Hinata's jump. Minako didn't even notice him run and jump before Kageyama even tossed the ball. Half-expecting that the first-year setter would've given the ball to Tanaka, she held her breath as Hinata's screamed and reminded everyone of his presence.

      It was beautiful.

      Hinata looked beautiful. Almost like he was floating midair.

      Daichi fumbled and tried his best to receive the ball only to have it mockingly hit the floor next to him.

      Noticing the dazed and shocked look on his sister's face, Kyoga laughed, snapping her back into reality. "I thought you said volleyball was boring," he mocked, using her words against her.

      Minako ignored him.

      Tanaka's team continued experimenting with Kageyama and Hinata's quick attack. While there were failures and painfully awkward plays that made Minako want the floor to swallow her, Tanaka managed to save his juniors. Compared to the last time Minako attended their morning practice to now, there was a definite change in Hinata and Kageyama's synergy that allowed them to create ridiculous combinations and moves. Even though they were unable to replicate the attack they had just did, it was clear that they were different than before.

      It wasn't long until after Suga's pep talk that things shifted dramatically.

      She heard Kageyama tell Hinata that it wasn't important if the latter didn't see his set up, that he'll deliver the ball. And the dark-haired setter followed through with his promise. Somehow, midair and eyes focused on their opponents, Hinata spiked the volleyball almost as if the ball magically appeared right before his eyes.

      A loud smack made her ears pop out of shock.

      Hinata managed to get past Tsukishima and his stupidly high wall.

      Minako doesn't remember much after that, but their performance only increased with every play. Not only did Hinata's attacks grew more frequent, but the other team's focus on him was now more apparent which allowed Kageyama to help Tanaka sneak in a few attacks. Of course, her classmate was more than responsive now that they were doing better, but his teamwork with the other two was also just as good.

      She'll admit, she was surprised when they had won.

      Not that she didn't have any fate in them, it was just . . . shocking that Daichi and the tall first-years on the other side lost.

      The first thing Tanaka did when they had won was stumbling towards Minako with a pointed finger in her face.

      "I . . . told you we'd win," he managed out before heavily breathing to catch his breath. Kageyama and Hinata were almost identical to him by laying down or squatting down to calm their aching legs. Especially Hinata who was laying face first on the gym floor before being handed a water bottle by Kyoga.

      Minako bit back her laughter as he snatched the water bottle she offered him. "You know, a lot of the points you scored is thanks to Hinata's crazy quicks and Kageyama's sets," she reminded him, only to earn a scowl in return. "But I will admit that you did better than I thought you would, so good job."

      He only glared as he took big gulps of water.

      "So, ice skating," Minako started as she clapped her hands together.

      "You said if I lost, we won."

      "Okay, yeah, but will you please go with me?"

      Tanaka gave her a puzzled look as he lowered the water bottle. "Why me? Why not Ennoshita or Narita?"

      "Because I'm most likely going to kill Yori so I need you to either restrain me or be my witness that I didn't start it," Minako answered cooly as she crossed her arms across her chest. "Kyoga's making me go on a stupid double date with his girlfriend and I'm happily single, but I have no one to go with."

      He pondered her words. Perhaps it was his unspoken loyalty to Minako, but he found Yori Ajibana just as annoying as she did. Or maybe it was because Yori once made an offhand comment at Kiyoko and though it's been a long time since that incident, Tanaka remembers it almost like it was yesterday. Of course, Ennoshita, Kinoshita, and Narita had to remind him that Yori is their senior's girlfriend which made her untouchable.

      But not to Minako. Maybe it was the whole 'foreigner' mindset and the age hierarchy didn't matter as much to her, but he wouldn't be surprised if she got suspended because she fought with Yori. Then again, she respects Kyoga too much to actually do that.

      "You do realize I just finished playing a game, right?" grumbled Tanaka.

      "Yes, but you'll cool down in a rink. Besides, you owe me since you copied my English exam and I helped you with your homework." I really wish Ennoshita was the one who was good in English, Tanaka found himself thinking.

      "Fine. But you're buying me lunch today."

      "Okay, just don't complain to me if you fall."

      "Shut your mouth."

      Minako mockingly put her hands up in defense, but she is grateful that Tanaka even agreed to go with her. Although her anger and dislike for Yori were evident — apparently not to her brother — it was more discomfort and hesitance that she felt towards her brother's girlfriend. But then again, what say does she have in who Kyoga dates? After all, she hasn't really been a sister to him for a few years now, so why start now?

      Plus, Kyoga didn't say anything when she told him that she was dating her partner.

      Too soon, she scolded herself.

      She soaked in the lively atmosphere that the gym had. From the first-years bickering, mainly Tsukishima wanting Hinata to back off of him to the others talking about the game. It was different than the hostile environment she had to grow up in the rink, but that wasn't bad. Knowing that her brother was able to grow up in a carefree and positive place like this made her happy.

      And when they finally gave the first-years their own custom Karasuno volleyball jackets and greeted them Minako couldn't help but finally feel like she's a part of the team. Perhaps it was because she's finally getting comfortable around them and Daichi letting her know that she's not a stranger to them anymore.

      Especially when Hinata is bouncing around and showing off his jacket even to her because in his eyes she was just as much a part of this team as the boys and Kiyoko. 

      Almost as if he read her mind, Daichi walked up to her with her jacket in his hands. She mumbled a quick thank you before taking it and slipping it back on.

      "Good game, by the way," Minako praised as she handed Daichi his water bottle that was behind her. "I thought you'd be a little easier on them, but it's nice to see that you're as strict as ever."

      "I didn't expect them to actually counter us as well as they did," Daichi whistled. "Besides, I have a feeling that Kyoga, Tanaka, and Suga somehow helped."

      "Ah yes, the troublesome trio who likes to butt their head in everyone's business?"

      "Yeah, but I'm glad they're looking out for them," the captain admitted. "I know I didn't exactly make it easy for Kageyama."

      "Lucky for you my brother has a soft spot for him."

      "Kyoga has a soft spot for everyone. If you're there for him, then he's there for you."

      "Oh trust me, I know. Did you know he carried me up the stairs when I started using crutches?" And how Tanaka was right behind him carrying my bag and Suga was announcing for everyone to clear the hallways, Minako wanted to add.

      Daichi snorted as the memory came to mind. "Don't forget when Nishinoya alerted him whenever he spotted you without your crutches. Which is really dumb of you by the way."

      "I was fine!" Minako protested, but the laughter tumbled out as she tried to be serious. "But I'm glad he's taking care of the first-years. Wanna bet that he's gonna force Tsukishima to be his friend?"

      "I'm pretty sure he's already planning things out."

      Leave it to Kyoga to be the first one to befriend the first-years. After all, Kyoga has always been the most social Saito sibling with Yua next, and Minako dead last. How her little sister is more extroverted than her is unbeknownst to anyone. But then again she's more likely to throw a tantrum after having a conversation with someone than Yua is. Knowing her dear baby sister, Yua would probably make people promise to talk to her soon.

      But perhaps people weren't as scary and conniving as she thought they'd be. After all, Daichi is a nice guy and he didn't make her uncomfortable. He is open and always listening, something she always thought people faked. Maybe people outside of the rink are different, maybe she just deluded herself into believing that everyone else is the same.

      "You know, I was actually going to ask if you wanted to go with me, to the whole Yori and Kyoga date," Minako confided nervously. She wrung her hands as she quickly dropped her gaze away from him before she could catch a glimpse at the expression on his face. "But you're busy, you have your brother and sister. Not to mention, I'm pretty sure ice skating isn't really your thing."

      Minako's admittance took Daichi off guard. She's always been prideful from what Kyoga has told the team during one of their after-practice conversations. There was always this proud and haughty atmosphere around her that always made her seem unapproachable. It was clear to anyone that knew her that she had her walls high enough to kiss the skies.

      But perhaps he'll finally get a glimpse at what's behind those walls of hers.

      "Mom wants me to take them to the park before dinner, get their energy out before dinner so they don't run around," Daichi apologized quietly. The shy expression on her face as she nodded told him that she was embarrassed for admitting her thoughts out loud. "But ice skating . . . I don't think I've ever been. Do you like it?"

      Her face almost lit up; Daichi doesn't ever think he's ever seen Minako look as ecstatic as she does now.

      So she likes ice skating, he mused.

      "I . . . like it," Minako said softly, though the look on her face looked as though she wanted to scream in excitement. "I think skaters look really beautiful when they skate."

      He wasn't oblivious to how hesitant she sounded near the end of her sentence. She almost sounded envious, as though their beauty was unmatchable than anyone else. But to Daichi, he's confused as to what separated the skaters from her.

      Daichi thinks she's pretty. After all, she's considered one of the prettiest girls at their schools and he'd have to be a liar to say that she isn't. There's a reason why she's considered hard to get and it's not just because she rejects them. But for the poor boys and girls who don't even dare to make a move, she'll always remain untouchable because she stands out more than bright lights on a cloudy night.

      "Really? We should all go one day," Daichi proposed as he bit back his smile from getting bigger. "You just have to promise that you won't laugh at me when I fall."

      "I promise."

      "Great. Then we'll all go next time."

      And the smile that lit up on her face made all his nerves wash away. Maybe she isn't as unapproachable as he had originally thought.

THE RINK WASN'T AS CROWDED AS Minako had thought, but there were two reasons why she couldn't exactly enjoy the free skate time. Reason #1.) Yori Ajibana is with them and the googly eyes Yori and Kyoga are giving one another is enough to make her want to throw up her breakfast and lunch. She's also pretty sure Yori made an offhand comment on the bus ride here about her hair and how she couldn't help but notice how tired Minako looked. If it wasn't for her good mood and her inability to step past Tanaka on the bus, she's pretty sure she would've said something as equally snarky. And finally Reason #2.), Tanaka's constant whining about how unfair Aoba Johsai is for only wanting a practice match with them because of Kageyama's part in the team. She managed to tune out most of his rant during the bus ride to the rink, but she found it almost impossible when he's following her on the rink — while holding onto the guard rail mind you — as he continues talking badly about the elite volleyball team.

      Minako's surprised that Kyoga was calm about the whole thing. After all, a lot of Kyoga's former teammates were supposedly on that team and she couldn't imagine it's easy to leave everyone he knew just to join an unknown team like Karasuno. But then again whenever Yori is around her brother was awestruck and practically functioning on one brain cell like a love-stricken idiot.

      After attempting to practice for half an hour, Minako finally gave in and was now sitting at one of the tables outside the rink eating nachos as Tanaka continued his complaining. She wasn't even hungry, she was just bored and if she's going to sit through her friend's rant she needs something to distract her momentarily.

      "Suga-san deserves to play a game though," Tanaka complained as Minako chewed on yet another tortilla chip. "He didn't get to play much when he was a second-year and now we haven't even started the season yet and here he is being outshined by a first-year. Is Kageyama good? Yes. But so is Suga-san!"

      "I know, I know, you've been saying that for the past hour," Minako interrupted as he snatched the chip that she had offered him. "I know how good he is too, you know? Did you forget, I watched some of your games last year and it sucks. But if Suga-kun says it's okay then it's okay."

      "So you're okay with Kyoga-san not playing? You know if Daichi-san puts Hinata in so they can do their weirdo-combo that means your brother's on the bench," Tanaka pointed out gravely as if he was pointing out their deaths.

      Minako stared at him blankly. "It's volleyball, not life or death. And to be honest, yes. He's not as strong as he was last year after his accident and if Aoba Johsai is as good as you say they are then I'd like it if my brother isn't playing against them. Knowing him he'll overwork himself to prove a point."

      "But Kyoga-san is insanely strong! You don't think it'll be cool if he shut those pretty boys up?"

      "I think he'd be cooler if he didn't run around the court after he shuts the other team up with his blocking. That's a bit excessive."

      "No, that's cool," Tanaka said firmly, almost sounding offended that Minako didn't agree with him. If only he knew that he was just as excessive as her older brother then maybe he'd understand.

      She ignored her friend, not wanting to argue with him over Kyoga's antics that were awfully similar to his. Minako didn't want to put it in the air that she was nervous over her brother playing even if it's just volleyball. He's fully healed from his incident and was almost performing as well as he did before, but that didn't stop her thoughts from going rampant. She's researched about shattered collarbones after his accident and it didn't ease her mind that the affected arm is weakened after the attack. It didn't necessarily put her at ease that his job was to block fast racing balls with his arms and she's pretty sure it'll be frowned upon if she requested that he only did it with his less dominant arm.

      But Minako knows she has no say in what Kyoga does. After all, he doesn't necessarily have one in her field of sport either. Her brother also tried his fair share of convincing her to stop as well, but of course, she lived for the sport more than anything else. Even on the empty, mind-numbing days her feet are blistered and she wants to curse at the skies for making her so broken over a sport, she couldn't give up even if she wanted to.

      Minako doesn't know who she'd be if she gave up figure skating.

      It was the only thing that made her special.

      It was the only thing that made her feel alive.

      It was the only thing that made her feel beautiful.

      Everyone who's on the ice today, athletes or regular civilians, they all came because they had the same thought: the figure skating and the skaters are beautiful. They just want to feel beautiful, to get the rush of adrenaline from skating, and knowing that you're performing something special.

      They all skate with a purpose.

      As Tanaka continued listing his reasons for why he's frustrated with the lineup — even though it's more than guaranteed that he'll be playing — Minako continued to look around the almost empty rink. Kyoga and Yori occupied the spot near the back, her brother holding on to his girlfriend's hands as he skated backward in an attempt to guide her so she didn't have to move at all. Kyoga laughed as he guided his nervous girlfriend who looked as though she had a deadly grip on his hands. There were a few parents who were skating behind their kids who held onto traffic cones to stable themselves and it reminded Minako of herself when she was with her dad. And finally, there were the usual skaters; they were the people who came to the rink almost every day for hours on end, the ones who'd come before school at dawn and the ones who'd stay until the sky was pitch black because skating is their life.

      The skaters who didn't see this just as a hobby or a pastime activity were different than everyone else. The beauty they conveyed was on another level than all the others. There was this elegance translated into an unspoken language that no one can quite put to words, a hidden declaration of power behind every spin, jump, and sequence.

      She almost allowed herself to get lost in the atmosphere, but the sound of piano interrupted both Tanaka and her train of thoughts.

      Her eyes quickly darted to all the skaters she knows are practicing today. But none of the usual skaters were positioned at the center, they were all on the sides, almost as if they knew instinctively to step aside. However, standing in the center was someone Minako almost forgot.

      Seina Arashima.

      "Isn't that the first year from the other day?" Tanaka asked in a hushed tone. His eyes couldn't help but fall on the small first-year girl who burst into their classroom. But the person on the ice was a completely different individual than the bubbly and energetic one he had met. This girl is serious and focused.

      Minako shushed him as she continued to watch.

      The first-year girl quickly moved as the music began. She seemed almost entirely different than the girl begging Minako to coach her. Her arms were soft, none of her movements abrupt or aggressive but almost gentle as it matched the pace of the music. She has beautiful sequences, one that Minako almost noted as perfect minus the few awkward footswitches and slightly out of beat turns.

      It almost reminded Minako of her junior years. Albeit she was 10 when she passed her junior test and it was for pair skating, the sentiment was still there.

      Seina looked like an entirely different person, almost a grown woman for a second. Her childish aura gone and now replaced with this atmosphere that demanded everyone's attention. Something was captivating about her as she did her cantilever. With both knees bent and her back bent backward, the tips of her fingers touch the ice as she steadily held herself before gliding in a U shape. She looks at ease, almost as if she trusts herself and this routine more than anyone else. And after a few seconds, she's standing back up with a nervous smile on her face, a break from the facade.

      A chip in the elegance, a crack away from breaking down the beautiful wall.

      Her first jump was a success, under rotation, yes, but for a double axel, it was good. The sitting spin was almost there, but anyone who knew figure skating could tell that she was struggling to keep up the pace.

      And then the double axel. Something Minako easily spotted as Seina started with her front. They're easily one of the most recognizable jumps because of this element, but because they're starting with the front there is an additional half rotation. Two and a half spin in the air before Seina has to land on her right foot.

      From what she had seen so far, the routine seemed hopeful. But just as she had thought the best of Seina and her skating, she fell. The angle of her body was awkward and slightly slanted resulting in her falling on her side before she could even attempt to land on her right foot.

      "That looked like it had to hurt," she heard Tanaka wince. "Thank god we do it on the ground and not on the ice."

      Minako almost felt bad for Seina. She looked almost embarrassed as she got to her feet, brushing off the ice that dusted her side as she tried to calm herself down. But without missing a beat, she looked up almost as if she knew Minako was looking and gave her a sheepish and flustered expression. To Minako, she almost looked like a kid being scolded in front of a classroom.

      It didn't take long for Minako to hear the comments.

      "Good job Arashima! You only fell once today!" sneered one of the skaters from outside the rink. The other two girls behind her laughed in unison as the snarky skater clapped her hands mockingly. "You didn't look like shit today, I'm surprised!"

      "Don't be too mean, Akina-chan! Arashima needs to pass her junior test, she'll get there!" one of Akina's friends egged on.

      There was almost this imaginary switch that someone had turned on. The calmness that once settled in her stomach was now gone, almost forgotten, and the quick tightening coil that left Minako on edge returned. She felt this insatiable desire burning from inside of her, the need to shut people up because their big fat mouths couldn't stand to be quiet. An all too familiar feeling to prove someone wrong, to make them regret everything they had ever said and done because she's there.

      And she's better than them in every single way.

      Without a second thought, Minako took the guards off her skates and slammed them on the table. She ignored Tanaka's questions as she headed for the rink with her arms quickly stretching themselves. Akina and her friends didn't even pay any attention to her, too busy spewing their insults towards Seina who had skated off to the other side to get away from them, something Minako figured must happen often.

      Minako paid their words no attention as she skated around the rink, stretching her arms every once in a while and practicing smaller jumps to get her used to being back on the ice after her half an hour break. It only took her a minute to get fully warmed up and ready.

      Kyoga wasn't blind. He saw the look on Minako's face, the calm before the storm as his father likes to say. 

      He and Yori watched from the sidelines as first-year Seina Arashima attempted her routine and as the other skaters who frequented the rink hurled their insults and comments at the struggling skater. Hell, Kyoga was ready to step in and say something, but then his sister stepped onto the ice.

      "Minako," Kyoga warned his sister. She ignored him as well. "Manon. Don't."

      She was never good at doing what she's told.

      Minako skated around the rink as she built up her speed. Has she done this jump recently? No, of course not. She's been popping her jumps left and right and if she did attempt any they were only single turns and often under rotation. But something she's learned about herself over the years is that she's fiercely competitive and that the drive to win and to shut everyone out maybe her greatest strength and her downfall.

      Without any hesitation, she jumped right into it. Literally.

      Don't think, just do. Shut them up, make them know that you're more beautiful, that you're better, Minako told herself. No one here is better than you. You know that.

      Watching Minako skate never gets tiring to Kyoga. The excitement and adrenaline he receives even as a bystander is intoxicating and he can't take his eyes off of her. He held his breath as he watches her build up her speed. He felt like a spectator watching as his heart raced against his chest to ease his nerves as she attempts to jump after jump, spin after spin, and repeat.

      "Minako skates?" he heard his Yori ask incredulously. Kyoga couldn't speak, he just nodded in return.

      A triple lutz followed by a triple flip.

      She did it without missing a beat, almost as if she hasn't been out of the games for months. This glossiness encased his sister as she skated, which followed her even after had landed her jumps. For such a small girl, her movements were big and flashy that begged for the audience to leave their eyes on her and only her. And despite being in worn-out pants and her volleyball team sweater, she emitted such beauty that couldn't be copied or attempted.

      For a second there, his little sister was gone and in her place was the renowned famous skater, Manon Clavette. Someone too far out of his reach.

      Minako landed the jump flawlessly, her arms out and still as she glides on one leg backward. And just as she passes by where the other girls stood, she stopped abruptly with her left leg out. A flurry of shaved ice washed over them and hit the glass they stood in front of, catching them off guard and in awe.

      "You missed a beat when you did your flip, you were under rotation for all seven times you attempted it, not to mention your lands were always messy and you never and I mean never kept up with your own damn music," Minako breathed out in a single breath before she tried to catch her breath. Her eyes were narrowed into slits, lips pulled into an obnoxious smirk as she watched them all gape in astonishment at her words.

      "So next time you want to talk shit about another skater just know that I exist and I am way better than you'll ever be," Minako continued as she began to skate away from them. "So shut your damn mouth and practice yourself and come back to me perfect, but before that, never talk badly about someone else."

      Akina, not wanting to let this stranger have the last say, spoke up. "And you think you're so good? You're nobody around here."

      Minako spun around just as she reached Seina who looked just as in disbelief as everyone else did.

      "Manon Clavette, pair skater and 2011 silver medalist for the French Figure Skating Championship," Minako answered easily before she flashed them one last smile. 

      She glanced at Seina before she placed her arm around Seina's shoulders. "And Seina's new coach, so I guess you'll be seeing a lot of me, won't you girls? Try not to disappoint me next time, Akina-chan."

      It was like she had never left France.

when someone insults minako:
when someone insults seina: ALRIGHT WHICH ONE OF YOU LITTLE
SHITS NEED A BEATDOWN!

okay, so this doozy of a chapter is a whooping 8300 words! DON'T EVER SAY I DON'T COME THROUGH WITH CONTENT BECAUSE I DO! IT JUST TAKES A LOT OF TIME FOR ME!

so I originally had about 3000 words before I continued today and I literally just sat here for six hours writing because I was on *fire* and I needed to finish this. But also because I just really wanted to write Minako being mean to mean girls (ﾉ◕ヮ◕)ﾉ*:･ﾟ✧

ALSO ANNOUNCEMENT! I decided to make a Haikyuu Help book for those who are looking or planning on writing a Haikyuu fanfic! This book is just basic tips to help with Japanese culture and all that jazz; from name structures to honorifics to just everyday Japanese culture, you'll find it there! Again, I'm not a professional nor am I Japanese, but I did research and plan everything out before because I was supposed to study abroad for a year. However, that failed because I procrastinated and I gave up lol!

So head on over to my profile if you're interested! I will also link it here in the comments!

Also, with everything going on in the world please check out the links I've provided for petitions and ways you can help spread awareness and help out.

Much Love Guys.

( written: october 25, 2020 )
( published: october 25, 2020 )