With sharp, (e/c) eyes, (y/n) observed the practice match intently, capturing every move the Karasuno boys made in her mental notes. Her focus and intensity were palpable, sending a shiver down Yachi's spine as she glanced over at her.

"Is she always like this during practice?" Yachi whispered, a hint of fear in her voice.

Kiyoko reassured her with a soft smile. "Oh, yes. (Y/n)-san is incredibly passionate about volleyball. You should see her during an actual match. It's quite impressive."

Yachi nodded, her eyes still fixed on (y/n). "It's admirable how dedicated she is. Her love for the sport shines through her every move."

Kiyoko chuckled softly. "Yes, she grew up playing volleyball, and it's a significant part of who she is. I agree, she looks cute when she's focused like this."

Unaware of the conversation surrounding her, (y/n) remained immersed in analyzing the game unfolding before her eyes. The team's progress was evident, but she couldn't shake off the concern that lingered within her.

"They're developing their individual skills, there's no doubt about it," (y/n) mused to herself. "But they need to find a way to connect it all together, to synchronize their efforts and communicate effectively."

While (y/n) was engrossed in her thoughts, her attention was suddenly drawn to the conversation between her brother and Takeda. Their discussion centered around Tsukishima and his apparent lack of progress.

Her brows furrowed in frustration as she listened in. "You dumb, lazy String Bean," (y/n) muttered under her breath, her voice laced with a mix of exasperation and concern. "Just put some effort in, come on!"

Growling softly under her breath, (y/n) tightened her fists, feeling a surge of determination coursing through her veins. She couldn't let Tsukishima continue on his path of complacency any longer. As soon as the practice ended, she would find a way to confront him, to push him beyond his limits and ignite the fire within him.

But for now, she needed to refocus her attention on the remaining moments of the practice match. With her sharp eyes and keen understanding of the game, (y/n) analyzed each player's strengths, weaknesses, strategies, and tactics. Every detail mattered to her, as she was determined to ensure that the team reached its full potential.

As the intensity of the match heightened, (y/n) couldn't help but feel a surge of pride when Asahi made a connecting move. The third-year player claimed the ball with determination, showcasing his growth and proving himself as the ace of the team. Her voice filled with genuine admiration, she exclaimed, "He's truly proven himself as the ace! Well done, Asahi-senpai!"

Keishin, who had been observing the match from the sidelines, nodded in agreement. A smirk graced his face as he turned to (y/n). "Jinx, I want you to focus on Tsukishima for me," he said, his voice filled with a mix of curiosity and determination. "Observe his every move, compare it to the others. If he's truly improving, he should be at a similar level in terms of stamina and overall performance."

(y/n) nodded affirmatively, fully understanding the importance of the task at hand. "Got it, Coach," she replied, her voice resolute and determined. "I'll closely monitor Tsukishima's progress and provide you with detailed feedback."

As the match continued, (y/n) devoted her undivided attention to Tsukishima, studying his every move with laser-like focus. She observed his positioning, footwork, timing, and overall energy on the court. With each play, she noted any improvements or areas in need of further development.

...

Frustration boiled within (y/n), her fists clenched tightly as she hissed in annoyance. After a day of closely observing Tsukishima's performance, it was clear that he was falling behind, lacking the drive and motivation needed to push himself further. The question echoed in her mind, 'Why won't he take interest in his own growth?'

Taking a stroll down the empty halls, with Kenta faithfully by her side, (y/n) awkwardly limped along, mumbling to herself in frustration. It was during this solitary walk that she spotted Yamaguchi, his conflicted expression mirroring her own inner turmoil. He offered a weak smile, though his troubled state was unmistakable.

Concern washing over her, (y/n) approached Yamaguchi, gently resting her hand on his shoulder. "Yamaguchi, are you okay?" she asked, her voice filled with genuine care.

Yamaguchi's voice wavered as he replied, "Y-yeah, I'm just thinking."

Knowing exactly what was weighing heavily on his mind, (y/n) nodded empathetically. "It's about Tsukishima, isn't it?" she gently probed, her voice laced with understanding.

With a small nod, Yamaguchi confirmed her suspicions. (y/n) motioned for him to join her, gesturing for him to sit on the floor beside her. She wanted to provide a safe space for him to share his thoughts and concerns.

"I don't know what to say to him, (y/n)-san," Yamaguchi confessed, his voice filled with uncertainty. "I understand why he's like this, but I can't figure out how to approach him. Hinata asked me what I would say to him, but I have no idea."

Listening attentively, (y/n) encouraged Yamaguchi to continue, her eyes focused on him with unwavering support.

Yamaguchi took a deep breath, gathering his thoughts before speaking. "Tsukki's brother was on the same team as the Small Giant," he began. "But he wasn't a regular. He was the ace in middle school, and Tsukki looked up to him. Akiteru-san pretended to still be the ace for nearly three years, so Tsukki wouldn't lose faith in him. When Tsukki found out the truth, it shattered him."

Sympathy welled up within (y/n) as she listened to Yamaguchi's account. It became clearer why Tsukishima approached volleyball with a guarded attitude, reluctant to commit fully. He had witnessed the pain that came from putting your faith in someone, only to have it shattered.

"I want to help him," Yamaguchi continued, determination flickering in his eyes. "He's done so much for me when we were kids, even if he may not remember. I used to get teased a lot for my freckles, they called me 'pimply.' One day, Tsukki walked by and called the bullies—probably me too—pathetic. It made them stop. The next time I saw him was at the volleyball tryouts, and I've been with him ever since. Without Tsukki, I wouldn't be able to play volleyball or even be comfortable around people. I owe it to him to tell him he needs to stop being like this. He's so much better than he thinks."

Moved by Yamaguchi's words, (y/n) placed a comforting hand on his, gently squeezing it as she looked into his eyes. "You should tell him that," she affirmed, her voice filled with conviction. "You're someone Tsukishima trusts deeply, and that's a significant bond. You also understand him better than anyone else. He would listen to you. Your words, coming from a place of genuine care, will have a profound impact on him."

Yamaguchi nodded fervently, determination rekindled within him. Kenta barked in agreement, showering the freckled teen with slobbery kisses, as if to show his support.

Before parting ways, (y/n) leaned in, their foreheads gently touching, and whispered, "Yamaguchi, your face isn't 'pimply.' I actually find your freckles quite unique and adorable."

Turning to look at him, she noticed that his freckles were no longer visible, concealed by his blazing red cheeks. Letting out a soft giggle, (y/n) couldn't resist teasing him a little. Leaning in, she planted a light kiss on his cheek before playfully standing up.

"Now go, freckled cutie, and kick Tsukishima's lazy ass into gear!" she joked, flashing him a mischievous wink.

Yamaguchi saluted playfully, his determination renewed. "Yes, ma'am!" he replied with a smile. "Thanks, (y/n)-san. I really appreciate your support."

With that, Yamaguchi took off like a man on a mission, fueled by newfound purpose. As (y/n) watched him go, she couldn't help but feel a sense of hope, knowing that her words had sparked a flame within him.

...

As (y/n) sat in the gymnasium, her eyes fixated on the intense practice session involving Kuroo, Bokuto, and Akaashi, a sense of admiration washed over her. These players exuded a level of dedication and passion that she found inspiring. 

With her notebook in hand, (y/n) jotted down more observations, capturing the intricacies of their movements and strategies. She was fully engrossed in her task when she suddenly looked up to resume her observations, only to be taken aback once again.

Tsukishima, who had been standing on the sidelines, seemingly approached Kuroo and Bokuto. (Y/n) watched with bated breath, her eyes trained on the unfolding interaction. It was a moment of anticipation, as if a pivotal decision was about to be made.

To her surprise, Tsukishima, after a brief conversation, made his way onto the court and joined the practice. A smirk tugged at the corners of (y/n)'s lips as she witnessed this unexpected development. Yamaguchi's efforts seemed to have borne fruit, breaking through Tsukishima's walls and rekindling his determination.

'That's it, String Bean! Embrace the challenge and prove your worth!' (y/n) thought triumphantly, her confidence in the blonde blocker soaring. It was a testament to the power of friendship and support, and she couldn't help but feel a sense of pride for both Yamaguchi and Tsukishima.

As the practice continued, (y/n) resumed her observations, her gaze shifting between the players and her notes. Kenta, her ever-enthusiastic companion, chased after a stray volleyball, adding a touch of lightheartedness to the intense atmosphere of the gymnasium.

In the midst of her analysis, (y/n) couldn't help but think about the transformative power of encouragement and camaraderie. The bond between teammates was not just about individual skill and talent; it was about lifting each other up, pushing beyond limits, and embracing growth as a collective.

While the practice session carried on, (y/n) made mental notes of the subtle changes in Tsukishima's performance. The once-disengaged player now displayed a renewed sense of focus and determination. She was excited to see how this newfound drive would shape his development and impact the team dynamics.