The atmosphere around Seiryuu High's flag football team buzzed with intensity. They huddled in close, shoulders brushing, breaths shallow and rapid. Despite their 25-0 lead at halftime against Tsubasa High, exhaustion was beginning to show in every heave of their chests, every weary glance exchanged between players. Without substitutes, every member of the team had played the entire game so far, and the toll of continuous play was undeniable. Yet none of them dared mention it—they couldn't afford to show any weakness.
Aiko paced just outside the circle, biting her lip as she took in the sight of her team. She knew every one of them was hanging on by sheer willpower. Despite the apparent lead, flag football was fast, and a few turnovers could change the tide in an instant. Her hands trembled slightly, not out of fear, but out of a deep, bone-deep worry. This team wasn't just playing a game; they were fighting to prove something—to themselves and to each other.
