The early-morning hallway still had the chilly feel of a place not quite awake, and a faint smell of chalk dust hung in the air.
The atmosphere at the stairwell corner of the third-year building was a little strange.
Azumane Asahi, a tall man with a mustache who looked like he could pick someone up with one hand and beat them up, was currently hunched over with his back against the wall, looking helplessly at the two first-year students blocking his way.
The scene looked like an upperclassman delinquent shaking down his juniors, but if you listened to their conversation, you'd realize it was the complete opposite—two Chihuahuas were cornering a big brown bear.
"I appreciate your kindness."
Azumane Asahi scratched the back of his head, his gaze wandering. He didn't dare look directly at the orange-haired little guy in front of him. "Really, why are you so concerned about me... someone who hasn't even played with you in a single practice?"
Hinata Shoyo hugged the volleyball tightly to his chest, his eyes so bright they were almost frightening. Completely unaware of personal space, he edged closer. "Because if you don't come back, Asahi Senpai, the second- and third-years will all lose their motivation!"
"Especially Nishinoya!" Hinata added. "He said if you don't come back, he definitely won't either!"
Azumane Asahi's expression stiffened. A flash of guilt crossed his eyes, but it was quickly covered by a heavy gloom.
"That guy's just too stubborn..." Azumane Asahi gave a bitter smile. "Besides, the team might be better off if I don't go."
"Huh?" Hinata's eyes widened, and he was about to loudly protest.
Kageyama Tobio, standing behind him, raised a hand without changing expression and drove the edge of it sharply into Hinata's side.
"Ow, ow, ow, ow—!" Hinata instantly curled