"...Maybe you're right. The underdogs really are different—they're strong."
"Well, they are the champions of Kansai. And let's not forget, Heian Gakuen from that region might not have taken a national title, but they've placed high—third, fourth, even second."
"That's what I'm saying. And this year, when Heian finally reached maturity and still only landed third… it means Horizon and Toyonaka might just be something else."
The broadcasters kept talking, voices swirling above the crowd.
But down in the tunnel… everything was quiet.
The teams had retreated into their locker rooms—two worlds preparing for the second half.
…
Horizon Locker Room
"Good first half," Coach Tsugawa said, standing before the whiteboard with arms crossed. "No need to get overconfident. This game is still wide open."
He pointed across the room.
"Dirga. Excellent reads on both ends. Your Counterveil timing saved us."
Dirga gave a small nod, but his eyes remained sharp. Focused.
