(Y/n) found her team waiting outside the gymnasium, their dejected expressions etched with disappointment and frustration. The weight of the loss lingered heavily in the air, casting a shadow over what should have been a moment of celebration. As she approached her teammates, she couldn't help but sense the collective disappointment that engulfed them, threatening to dampen their spirits.

As (y/n) made her way toward her teammates, a glimmer of surprise danced in her eyes when she noticed Kenta, their team's energetic ball of positivity, already by their side. With his wagging tail, wet nose, and playful demeanor, he exuded an infectious enthusiasm that seemed almost boundless. The mere sight of him brought an involuntary smile to her face, and she couldn't help but feel a surge of gratitude for her loyal companion.

Kenta, the adorable puppy mascot of their team, had an uncanny ability to lift their spirits even in the darkest of times. His presence alone seemed to radiate warmth and joy, acting as a ray of light cutting through the gloomy aftermath of their defeat. His tail wagged excitedly, sweeping away the cloud of disappointment that hung heavy in the air.

As (y/n) approached, Kenta bounded toward her, tiny paws dancing with energy as he showered her with affectionate licks and playful jumps. The weight of their loss momentarily lifted as his excitement infected the team, eliciting chuckles and lightening their hearts.

With a soft smile, (y/n) knelt down to Kenta's level, her fingers gently ruffling his soft fur. She marveled at his unwavering support, recognizing the profound impact his presence had on the team's morale. In that moment, she understood the importance of having a furry companion to lean on during challenging times.

As the team gathered around, Kenta moved from one teammate to another, showering them with his brand of canine comfort. His playful antics and wagging tail seemed to offer a silent promise that they were not alone in their disappointment. He reminded them of the bonds they shared and the strength they derived from their unity.

Gratitude swelled within (y/n) as she watched Kenta's interactions, appreciating the way his innocence and unwavering loyalty brought a renewed sense of hope. The resilience of their team had always been fortified by the companionship they shared, and Kenta's presence exemplified that unwavering support.

Just as (y/n) was about to address the team, Keishin, their resilient coach, stepped forward, his presence commanding their attention. Takeda and Kiyoko stood beside him, their unwavering support and understanding etched across their expressions. The trio formed a united front, ready to guide their team through this trying moment.

The team fell into a hushed silence as Keishin cleared his throat, his voice steady and resolute. "Listen up, everyone," he began, his words cutting through the heaviness that hung in the air. "I know this loss is tough, and it's okay to feel disappointed. But now is not the time to dwell on what could have been. We have to keep moving forward."

His eyes swept across the faces of each player, acknowledging their individual struggles and emotions. Takeda and Kiyoko nodded in agreement, their silent reassurance amplifying Keishin's words.

"We're going to get through this together," Takeda added, his voice filled with unwavering conviction. "We've faced setbacks before, and we've always come out stronger. This is no different. It's in these moments that our character is truly tested."

The team members exchanged glances, absorbing the weight of their coach's words. There was a mixture of trepidation and determination in their eyes, as they grappled with the conflicting emotions swirling within them. But amidst the uncertainty, they found solace in the unyielding support of their coach and the unwavering presence of Takeda and Kiyoko.

Just as the silence threatened to stretch on, (y/n) stepped forward, her voice carrying a blend of determination and gratitude. "He's right," she said, her gaze meeting each player's. "Let's go and grab a meal together. We'll find comfort in our unity and use this time to reflect, recharge, and come back stronger."

Her words hung in the air, and a glimmer of understanding flickered in the eyes of her teammates. It wasn't about dismissing their disappointment or pretending that everything was fine. It was about finding solace in each other's presence, drawing strength from their shared experiences, and regaining the resolve to face the challenges that lay ahead.

Daichi, still processing their coach's and (y/n)'s words, spoke up, voicing the question that lingered in the room. "But, um, why would we want to eat a meal after what we just endured?" he asked, his voice tinged with skepticism.

Keishin's gaze softened as he approached his captain, placing a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "Eating isn't just about nourishing your body," he explained gently. "It's about nourishing your spirit too. Right now, we need to come together, support one another, and find strength in each other's company. And sometimes, sharing a meal can be a powerful way to do that."

Daichi and the rest of the team exchanged uncertain glances, their skepticism giving way to a glimmer of hope. They began to see the deeper meaning behind Keishin's words. It wasn't about glossing over their defeat or feigning positivity. It was about seeking solace and support in the company of their teammates, finding comfort in the familiarity of shared moments and shared meals.

With a newfound sense of purpose, (y/n) stepped forward once again, her voice resonating with a mixture of determination and gratitude. "He's right," she reiterated, her eyes shining with unwavering resolve. "Let's go and grab a meal together. Let's use this time to not only refuel our bodies but also to reflect on our journey, to recharge our spirits, and to remind ourselves of the strength we possess as a team."

One by one, the team members nodded, their expressions shifting from uncertainty to resolute acceptance. They understood that their journey wasn't over; it was just a detour in the grand scheme of things. And together, fueled by their shared bond and a shared meal, they would continue on, ready to face the challenges that lay ahead.

As they made their way toward the street, Keishin leading the way, conversations sparked among the team members. Words of encouragement, shared experiences, and even lighthearted banter filled the air, gradually infusing the atmosphere with renewed energy and a sense of camaraderie. Kenta, their faithful four-legged companion, happily trotted alongside them, his tail wagging in sync with their resolute strides.

They knew that this meal was more than just a simple act of nourishment; it was a symbol of their unity, their unwavering support for one another. Together, they would find the strength to overcome their disappointment, to learn from their mistakes, and to rise stronger than ever before. And as they stepped onto the streets, they carried with them the collective determination of a team ready to conquer any obstacle that dared cross their path.

They finally arrived at the restaurant, and as (y/n) stepped through the familiar entrance, a rush of nostalgia enveloped her. This was the place where her older brother and his former team used to gather after their own matches, a place filled with cherished memories. The old lady who ran the restaurant greeted them with a warm smile, her presence comforting and familiar. She remembered (y/n) and affectionately ruffled Kenta's hair, happy to see him again. With a kind gesture, she headed to the kitchen to prepare a special meal for the weary team.

As the enticing aroma of food wafted through the air, Keishin took a moment to gather the boys' attention once more, emphasizing the importance of replenishing their bodies and allowing their muscles to heal. His words were a reminder that nourishment extended beyond physical sustenance; it was a way to mend their spirits as well.

Before they all dug into the meal, (y/n) stood up from her spot between Ennoshita and Asahi, her heart pounding in her chest. She cleared her throat, her voice a mix of nervousness and genuine sincerity.

"Um, I know that nothing I say can take away the pain," (y/n) began, her voice trembling slightly. "That feeling of defeat lingers, and it always will. But I want you to use this frustration, these emotions, as fuel to grow stronger. Today, I witnessed each one of you play with an unwavering passion and determination, and I couldn't be prouder. I know that won't instantly make you feel better, and I know it never will, but I want you all to know that today, I saw glimpses of your dreams realized. I didn't see defeated rivals; I saw a murder of crows, fierce and relentless, reminding everyone that you are not to be forgotten."

She paused, her gaze shifting around the table, meeting the eyes of each teammate. "Take all these emotions and pour them into your training. Because right now, you may be angry and upset, but as soon as that settles, you'll feel a new kind of hunger. A hunger for revenge and victory. So, anyway... I'm not sure how to end this... Just know that we're all incredibly proud of you, and you did something incredible today."

With a clumsy nod, (y/n) quickly returned to her seat, fiddling with her jacket to hide her flushed cheeks. She couldn't bear to look up at her teammates, fearing the intensity of their emotions and her own vulnerability.

Soon, the sounds of utensils against plates filled the air, and (y/n) tentatively lifted her gaze. Tears were streaming down the faces of her teammates as they ate, their emotions pouring out with each mouthful. Tsukishima, though not shedding tears, still wore a mask of frustration and determination in his golden eyes.

Noticing movement beside her, (y/n) saw Asahi quietly dropping pieces of meat into her bowl. Surprised, she looked up to meet his gaze, his own eyes red and puffy from crying. Ennoshita followed suit, passing her a drink with a small, comforting smile. Grateful for their thoughtfulness, (y/n) thanked the two upperclassmen before continuing to eat.

"Thank you, (y/n)-san, for what you said," Asahi murmured between sobs and bites of his food. "We're all upset right now, but your words mean a lot."

The sentiment was echoed by the team, their runny noses and tear-streaked faces turning toward (y/n) with a mixture of gratitude and raw emotion.

"We know you worked just as hard as us, (y/n)-san," Hinata sniffled, his voice quivering. "You might not have played, but you were the one behind our strategies."

It didn't take long before (y/n) was overwhelmed by tears too, but she stubbornly insisted that they continue eating, their exhausted bodies needing nourishment. Amidst the mingling of their cries, Kenta's howls of sympathy resonated, as they all wept together, their voices filled with determination and a shared resolve to win next time.