Spring was coming, especially in Japan, where its arrival was especially distinct. From south to north, the blooming of cherry blossoms in each city marked its descent.
On a day like this, one that made people want to howl and vent their joy at finally shedding their heavy clothes, the four members of the Sasaki Family split into two groups and left one after another.
"Are you sure you'll be okay?" Though Kōshū had prepared himself, he still could not help worrying when Shen Qing was admitted to the hospital for observation a month early.
"Don't worry. I'm only being admitted early because it would be dangerous if something happened at home. You two just focus on practicing."
Then it was the two brothers' turn. With enough luggage for two full weeks on their backs, they gathered at the club before heading to some mountain in the countryside for a training camp.
On the bus, Kōshū received texts from players on several teams. They had already arrived at the training site and spotted the Kinoshita Club name on a banner, so they messaged him to ask about it.
Kōshū replied to each of them. Lang Zhi had fallen asleep as soon as he got on the bus and was now hugging one of Kōshū's arms, leaning against his shoulder and drooling in his sleep. Kōshū could only struggle to type one-handed: "Yes, we're going to that camp too. Looks like we'll be having crossover practice games again. How many teams are there?"
This type of training camp was somewhat like professional baseball spring training. Teams from different leagues gathered in a warmer area for practice before the season began.
"I didn't look closely. I'll check when I get back."
"I saw on the sign-in sheet that there are eight teams.