The locker room buzzed with the low hum of conversation as Seiryuu High's flag football team caught their breath. The adrenaline from the victory still lingered, but fatigue was beginning to settle in. Some players leaned back on the benches, eyes half-closed, while others were busy rehydrating and munching on energy bars, knowing that they needed to replenish their strength for the next game.
Sota sat in the corner, his jersey now hanging loosely around his neck, the cool air a welcome relief against his sweaty skin. He had a bottle of water in one hand, the cap absentmindedly flicked off as he stared at the ground, his thoughts still replaying the intense final moments of the game. They had won, but the weight of the next challenge was already pressing on his shoulders.
