After changing out of her school uniform and slipping into the borrowed girls' team attire, (y/n) made her way into the gymnasium, her anticipation building for the after-school practice session.

As she entered the familiar space, the rhythmic sound of volleyballs being spiked and the voices of her teammates filled the air. Keishin, with his signature determined expression, stood at the center of the court, commanding everyone's attention.

"Alright, everyone, gather around," he called out, his voice projecting authority and determination. "Our practice match against Nekoma is just around the corner. We need to be in top condition, both physically and mentally. Are you ready?"

The team members responded with a resounding "Yes, Coach!" as they huddled closer, eagerly awaiting their instructions.

"Now, as I mentioned earlier, we'll be having a practice match today," Keishin continued, his eyes scanning the faces of each player. "The teams for today's match will be as follows: Team A will consist of Sugawara, Daichi, Asahi, Yamaguchi, Kinoshita, Ennoshita, and (y/n). And Team B will be composed of Noya, Tanaka, Tsukishima, Kageyama, Hinata, Narita, and myself."

The announcement sent a ripple of excitement and anticipation through the gymnasium. Players exchanged glances, mentally preparing themselves to showcase their skills and contribute to their respective teams. (Y/n) felt a mix of nerves and determination coursing through her veins as she took her place alongside her teammates in Team A, until realization suddenly hit her.

"Oi! How come they get you, Onii-chan!? I call bullshit!" (y/n) exclaimed, her playful annoyance evident in her voice.

Keishin chuckled at his sister's protest, understanding her desire to have him on her team. He shrugged, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Watch your language, Jinx. And they get me because you have all the third years on your team, not to mention Ennoshita and Kinoshita, who have experience working together. And let's not forget about you, a national champion libero. It's only fair, isn't it? Besides, I gave you Yamaguchi, and among the first-years, other than Kageyama, he's pretty decent at receiving," he explained, his words accompanied by a smirk.

Grumbling under her breath, (y/n) reluctantly accepted her brother's explanation, realizing the strategic advantages of her own team. With a huff, she turned her attention to her team members, determined to make the best of the situation. As she surveyed her group, a sense of excitement and anticipation bubbled within her. She mentally strategized, considering each player's strengths and how they could complement one another.

Meanwhile, the remaining boys on the other side of the court pouted, disappointed that they didn't have the opportunity to work with (y/n). They knew her skills as a libero and admired her achievements, yearning to experience playing alongside her. The longing in their eyes was evident, as they couldn't help but feel a tinge of envy towards the lucky ones on (y/n)'s team.

In the midst of the commotion, Nishinoya found himself in a state of distress, lamenting the fact that he wouldn't have Asahi as his ace and that he wouldn't get to be on the same team as (y/n). The usually energetic libero slumped to the ground, embodying the epitome of despair.

"I have to play against Asahi! And I don't get to be on the same team as (y/n)-san!" Nishinoya wailed, his voice filled with genuine disappointment.

Tanaka, ever the dramatic companion, joined in on Nishinoya's wails of despair, both of them wallowing in their melodramatic misery. The rest of their team stood nearby, wearing blank expressions as they observed the duo's antics. While they may not have reacted as dramatically, they too felt a pang of disappointment over the team assignments.

Ukai, the observant coach, approached the distraught pair, his no-nonsense demeanor unwavering. He raised an eyebrow, unimpressed by their display. "Oi, Noya. Stand up and grow up," he chided, his words laced with a hint of amusement. "I get it, you wanted to be on (y/n)'s team, but life isn't always fair. However, I'll let you in on a little secret. Jinx can get pretty competitive, and when she recognizes a talented libero like you, she likes to work with them one-on-one to explore new ways of improvement."

Nishinoya's eyes widened, his despair momentarily replaced with curiosity and a renewed sense of hope. The mere mention of the possibility of becoming (y/n)'s training partner ignited a fire within him. He sprung to his feet, the intensity returning to his gaze.

"Did you hear that, Tanaka?! I have a chance to train with (y/n)-san!" Nishinoya declared, his voice ringing with newfound determination. "I won't let this setback dampen my spirit. I'll show her just how much I can improve!"

Tanaka, caught up in Nishinoya's enthusiasm, joined him with a determined nod. "That's the spirit, Noya! Let's give it our all and prove ourselves!"

As the teams regrouped and prepared to start their practice match, the gymnasium filled with a renewed sense of determination. Each player, fueled by their individual motivations and the desire to impress, embraced the challenge that lay ahead. The stage was set for an intense showdown, where bonds would be tested, skills honed, and new heights reached.

The match commenced with (y/n)'s team serving first, the anticipation hanging in the air. The ball soared over the net, effortlessly received by Nishinoya, whose agility and lightning-fast reflexes were a sight to behold. Kageyama, determined to showcase his setting skills, positioned himself perfectly to execute an insane quick play. With a precise flick of his wrists, he propelled the ball towards Hinata, who leaped into action, unleashing a thunderous spike aimed directly at (y/n).

Everyone braced themselves, expecting the resounding impact of the ball meeting the floor. But to their astonishment, (y/n) flawlessly received the powerful attack, her impeccable technique and lightning-quick reflexes on full display. The opposing team stood in awe, their expressions a mixture of disbelief and admiration.

Sugawara, momentarily stunned by (y/n)'s exceptional play, quickly regrouped and readied himself for the incoming ball. Asahi, fueled by the excitement and energy of the moment, leaped into the air and unleashed a mighty spike, leaving the opposing team unable to respond effectively. Their team scored the first point, eliciting a chorus of exuberant howls and cheers. Meanwhile, Nishinoya couldn't tear his eyes away from (y/n), his admiration for her growing with each passing second.

"She's incredible. The way she effortlessly received that insane quick attack is mind-blowing," Nishinoya marveled silently, his respect for (y/n) deepening.

Noticing the intense gaze from Nishinoya, (y/n) playfully winked at the libero, sending him into a flustered state. His face turned a shade of crimson, his words stumbling out incoherently. Amused by his reaction, (y/n) turned her attention back to her teammates, who were still reeling from her impressive feat. Asahi blushed and mumbled in disbelief, Yamaguchi resembled a gaping fish, Ennoshita and Kinoshita offered nervous smiles, and Daichi began patting her back with pride. Sugawara, sporting a toothy grin, couldn't contain his admiration for her skills.

"That was absolutely amazing, (y/n)-san!" Daichi praised, his voice filled with genuine awe and respect.

Blushing at the compliment, (y/n) shyly hid her burning cheeks behind her hands. "Th-thanks, Daichi-senpai," she stuttered, her gratitude evident in her voice.

"I mean, you showed a little of your skills during our practice at lunch today, but this is a whole new level." Daichi responded with a soft smile, playfully ruffling (y/n)'s hair.

Her words faltered as she attempted to express her gratitude once more, her heart fluttering at the casual closeness between them. The rest of the team watched their captain's interactions with (y/n) with a mixture of envy and curiosity. They couldn't help but notice the gleam in Daichi's eyes and the smirk he discreetly flashed at them, hinting at the connection they shared during their lunch practice session earlier that day.

Huffing with a mixture of frustration and admiration, the rest of the boys on (y/n)'s side growled once more at their captain before begrudgingly returning to their respective positions. The match pressed on, with (y/n) and Nishinoya fueling each other's determination to retrieve every ball. Team A's synchronized efforts paid off, and the first set came to an exhilarating close, with (y/n)'s team emerging victorious with a score of 25-22.

Taking a seat on the bench, (y/n) listened intently as Daichi shared his insights and plans for the upcoming set. Lost in concentration, she was startled when a water bottle entered her field of vision. Glancing up, she met Asahi's warm smile. Scooting over to make room, she welcomed the tall third-year to join her on the bench. Daichi finished his brief speech, instructing everyone to prepare for the next set.

"You played incredibly well in the first set, (y/n)-san," Asahi praised, his voice filled with genuine admiration.

"Thank you, Asahi-senpai! You're an exceptional player too. I can clearly see why you're the ace," (y/n) complimented his skill, her voice brimming with sincerity.

Her words caused Asahi's cheeks to flush a deep shade of crimson, and he began stumbling over his words, modestly asserting that he was nothing without the support of the libero and setter. Giggling softly, (y/n) reassured him, her hand gently patting his shoulder as she gazed up at him with her vibrant (e/c) eyes.

"You should give yourself more credit, you know. The libero and setter can keep sending the ball to the ace, but the team only keeps fighting because they trust you. You exude that trust. Whenever the ball is directed towards you, I know you'll do everything in your power to secure that point. That's what makes you the ace. That's what keeps the libero and setter motivated even when faced with formidable blocks. We persevere because we know the ace will always fight for the team," she finished her heartfelt spiel.

Asahi appeared as though he might faint from the overwhelming surge of emotions that coursed through him. In that moment, (y/n) realized the entire gymnasium had fallen into a hushed silence, with everyone either smiling or holding back tears at her words of encouragement towards the third-year. Sugawara and Nishinoya, in particular, seemed on the verge of tears as they shifted their gaze between (y/n) and Asahi.

Uncomfortable with the attention suddenly directed at her, (y/n) cleared her throat, desperately hoping someone would change the subject. Sensing her discomfort, Takeda-sensei quickly intervened, announcing that the next set would be starting in five minutes.

Taking the opportunity to go and stretch her muscles, (y/n)'s wrist was abruptly caught by a large, gentle hand. Turning, she found herself once again met with Asahi's smiling face, but this time, there was something different about it. A spark of newfound confidence danced in his eyes, giving his smile a radiant glow that sent a shiver down (y/n)'s spine.

"Thanks, (y/n)-san. I mean it," he said, his voice laced with sincerity.

Returning his smile, she nodded her head, her heart fluttering within her chest. Without uttering a word, she hurriedly withdrew her hand from his grasp, feeling a mixture of excitement and anticipation coursing through her veins. Leaving Asahi to gaze dreamily at her retreating figure.

(Y/n) gracefully extended her limbs, engaging in a series of stretches to ensure her body was prepared for the next set. As she focused on her flexibility, Sugawara approached her, seeking to join in.

"Mind if I join you?" he asked, his voice tinged with a hint of shyness.

"Go right ahead, Suga-senpai!" she cheerfully replied, welcoming his company.

Together, they resumed their stretching routine. However, Sugawara found himself turning a bright shade of pink as he noticed (y/n)'s remarkable flexibility. His mind began to wander, conjuring up inappropriate thoughts that startled and embarrassed him.

'Oh goodness, her legs... I can't help but imagine them assuming various positions... No, no, no! What am I thinking? I'm her senpai! I need to maintain my composure. Besides, she's the sister of our coach. I mustn't indulge in such perverted thoughts. I'm the voice of reason in this group! I need to regain my focus!' Sugawara's thoughts spun out of control, causing him to vigorously shake his head in an attempt to dispel those unwanted fantasies.

When he glanced up, Sugawara noticed (y/n) observing him curiously. An awkward laugh escaped his lips as he struggled to come up with a plausible explanation for his peculiar behavior.

"Sorry, I was just thinking about what you said to Asahi earlier. It reminded me of a difficult time for all of us, and it brought back some memories," he stammered, attempting to deflect attention away from his internal turmoil.

"Oh, I see. I hope I didn't upset you all then," (y/n) responded, her concern evident in her voice.

"No, not at all! In fact, your words brought immense happiness to Asahi. Noya and I were his setter and libero during a particular match where he blamed himself for our loss. We also blamed ourselves, and it was a challenging period for the three of us," Sugawara explained, grateful for the opportunity to divert the conversation away from his momentary lapse in judgment.

Nodding empathetically, (y/n) attentively listened to her senpai as he briefly shared the details of their shared struggle.

"I think I understand now. But you know, Suga-senpai, all three of you are truly remarkable. Never forget that, okay?" she reassured him, her words filled with genuine warmth and admiration.

The gray-haired boy found himself on the verge of releasing a torrent of tears at (y/n)'s kind-hearted nature. Her words, coupled with the fact that she was offering him a pep talk while still effortlessly maintaining her splits, overwhelmed him with a mix of emotions.

Before long, their coach, Keishin, called for everyone's attention, signaling the start of the second set. The team gathered, their spirits uplifted by (y/n)'s presence and the unwavering support she radiated.

As the second set commenced, (y/n) couldn't help but feel a newfound determination radiating within her. Her encounters with Asahi and Sugawara had stirred something deep within her soul, igniting a flame of confidence that burned brightly. With each serve, receive, and spike, she poured her heart and soul into the game, showcasing her exceptional skills and unwavering commitment to the team.

The match progressed fiercely, each team fighting tooth and nail for every point. (Y/n) found herself immersed in a captivating rhythm with Nishinoya, their movements flawlessly synchronized as they covered their side of the court with relentless agility.

Midway through the second set, (y/n)'s team found themselves trailing by a few points. Determined to turn the tide, she called for a time-out, gathering her teammates around her. With a resolute expression, she shared her insights and motivated them with her unwavering belief in their abilities. Her words resonated deeply within each player, reigniting their fighting spirit.

Back on the court, (y/n) soared, her receives becoming even more precise, her sets perfectly timed, and her spikes leaving the opposing team in awe. With each successful play, her teammates' morale soared, their determination unyielding. They fought their way back, inch by inch, until they finally caught up and, eventually, surpassed their opponents.

As the final point was scored, (y/n)'s team erupted into jubilant cheers and embraces. The victory was a testament to their unwavering teamwork and the indomitable spirit that burned within each player. Amidst the celebration, (y/n) found herself surrounded by her teammates, their admiration and gratitude evident in their beaming smiles and heartfelt congratulations.

Daichi, his voice filled with pride, approached (y/n) with a warm smile, his eyes glinting mischievously. "You were incredible, (y/n)-san. Not just in your skills, but in how you uplifted the team with your words and actions. You truly embody the spirit of a leader."

Blushing, (y/n) accepted the praise humbly, acknowledging the collective effort of the team. As they basked in their hard-earned victory, she couldn't help but steal a glance at Asahi, who was looking at her with a mix of awe and adoration. In that moment, (y/n) knew that her connection with these boys extended far beyond the volleyball court, and she eagerly anticipated what would happen next.