Haikyuu: Reborn in Karasuno

The station was already buzzing when Hayato and Kiyoko arrived. The Karasuno boys' volleyball team, gathered in a loose cluster near the ticket gates, turned as one.

For a heartbeat, the world seemed to freeze. Then—

"Ohhh~~"

Tanaka and Nishinoya clutched their chests like they'd been struck by divine beauty. In the next instant, they crumbled theatrically to their knees, expressions locked in blissful awe.

Kiyoko's light-blue lily-patterned yukata caught the glow of the station lights, her hair swept up to reveal the graceful curve of her neck. She looked effortlessly elegant — the kind of presence that made strangers pause mid-step.

"Sorry, I'm late!"

Hitoka jogged up, dressed in a white yukata that gave her a sweet, cheerful charm. If Kiyoko was the picture of refined beauty, Hitoka radiated friendly warmth. The first-years quickly showered her with compliments.

With the last arrival, the group boarded the train together.

Hayato's eyes flicked briefly toward Yamaguchi, but the boy's calm expression revealed nothing. He chatted idly with Tsukishima, who was here only because Yamaguchi had dragged him along. Even the aloof middle blocker's presence made the group feel complete.

The third-years had gone for a coordinated look in black yukatas. On Asahi, it had… interesting results. Kiyoko couldn't resist teasing him, claiming he looked like a yakuza member ready to draw a blade. Asahi laughed awkwardly, rubbing the back of his neck.

Hayato, sitting next to Kiyoko, was drawn into a quiet talk with Daichi. The captain's tone made it clear — he was subtly preparing Hayato for the day he'd take over leading the team.

The ride was filled with easy chatter, and soon the train pulled into their stop.

"Ohhh! So many people! So much food!" Hinata's eyes sparkled as he took in the festival stalls.

Daichi caught him before he could vanish into the crowd. "Stay together for now. Meet here at this time for the fireworks."

That lasted exactly thirty seconds. Hinata challenged Kageyama to an eating contest and bolted. Kageyama shouted after him and gave chase. Yamaguchi, lingering near Hitoka, hesitated — until Tsukishima, clearly plotting, nudged him forward and made himself scarce.

The second-years, under Ennoshita's watch, took Tanaka and Nishinoya (who had been assigned "Kiyoko guard duty") along with Kinoshita and Narita for yakisoba.

Before long, only Hayato, Kiyoko, and Tsukishima were left.

"Tsukki, you're third-wheeling," Hayato said dryly.

"I didn't even want to come," Tsukishima muttered. "But fine, I'll—"

"Wait." Hayato caught his shoulder. A glance to Kiyoko was enough — she smiled knowingly.

"It's been ages since I've had festival candy apples," she said. "I'll go grab some. Want one?"

"Sure, thanks."

When she was out of earshot, Hayato slung an arm over Tsukishima's shoulder.

"Alright, heart-to-heart time."

"Don't call me that," Tsukishima grumbled, but Hayato's grip was immovable.

"Your blocking's been sharper lately. Training for Shiratorizawa?"

"…Just getting better with practice," Tsukishima said, but Hayato could tell he was hiding his real motivation.

"Fine. But here's the thing — Ushijima's spikes aren't something you stop head-on. Go for soft blocks and set up the counterattack. And timing? That's key. Jump so you're at peak height exactly when he hits. Watch their match videos — Kiyoko's got them, I'll send you copies."

Tsukishima adjusted his glasses, listening intently now.

"And get used to spike power," Hayato added. "Mine aren't bad, but Ushijima's are next-level. We'll train after break."

By the time Hayato finished, Tsukishima was storing away every word like ammunition.

Kiyoko returned — with Koyuki and two friends in tow, all in colorful yukatas. Tanaka and Nishinoya materialized instantly, positioning themselves like loyal bodyguards.

"Hayato! We messaged you when we got here. If we hadn't seen these two, we'd still be searching!"

"Ah — sorry. Wasn't checking my phone," Hayato said with an apologetic bow. "Apple candy on me."

The group swelled to eight — four boys, four girls — and dove into the festival's energy. They ate fried snacks, scooped goldfish, and tested their skill at water balloon fishing.

"Even if it's not just you and me, this is fun," Hayato murmured to Kiyoko.

"Yes," she said softly. "It's been a long time since I've enjoyed something like this with everyone."

"Guess we can thank me for making it happen," Hayato said with a crooked grin.

Kiyoko's eyes softened. "Since you came back, the team… and I… have changed a lot."

Under the warm lantern light, Hayato's pinky brushed hers — then hooked. She blinked, startled, and glanced around. No one was watching. She looked back with a faint glare that held more shyness than anger.

For a few steps, they walked like that — fingers linked, shoulders almost touching — until the group reformed. Hinata and Kageyama returned carrying enough food for an army. Yamaguchi and Hitoka appeared with a water balloon prize. Daichi's group sported novelty masks.

They made their way to a quieter spot by the river.

Whoosh

The first firework shot into the sky, bursting in a shower of gold.

"TAMAYA~!"

Laughter and cheers mingled with the bright explosions overhead, the perfect close to a summer that felt just a little different from all the others.

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