Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

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The basketball rules, settings of HBL

Basic rules of real life basketball is applied to HBL, the fanfic will assume that the readers have known all of these rules, therefore will not attempt to explain it within the literature. However, there're advanced strategic concepts that will be explained as you are reading the fanfic.

For understanding the basic rules of basketball, you can watch this video: Basic rules of basketball.

Competition in HBL

Hololive Basketball League is a annual league with each year being "a season". The best team of the season is recognized as the champion of that season.

A season of HBL consists of two phases: The regular season and The Playoffs.

During the regular season, 30 teams from two conferences battle each other out in 82 games to achieve the most wins they can. 16 teams total, 8 teams from each conference with the best record advances to The Playoffs.

In The Playoffs, teams from the same conference are matched-up in a direct elimation best-of-7 games series, teams that achieve 4 wins in a series first will advance to the next round. The team that eliminate all of the teams of their conference and win the HBL finals will be crowned the champion of that season.

Here's an example of what a playoffs bracket will potentially look like: Bracket

The HBL's teams

WC- Western conference.

1. Stellar Comets.
2. Lava Buckets.
3. Seiso Idols.
4. Fearless Roarings.
5. Candy Knights.
6. Office Destroyers.
7. Touchy Pirates.
8. Oni Docchis.
9. Festival Bandaids.
10. Yubi Yubi.
11. TMT Angels.
12. Fox Burger Kings.
13. Omae Ducks.
14. Cosplaying Rabbits.
15. Succubus Horns.

EC- Eastern conference.

1. KFP Employees.
2. Deep Sea Shrimps.
3. The Qs.
4. Halu Peacocks.
5. Boba zombies.
6. Nature Mooers.
7. Perfection Clocks.
8. Horrorface Owls.
9. Chaotic Dices.
10. Takodachi Wahs.
11. Laughing Penguins.
12. Rapping Reapers.
13. NUT.
14. Yabai Streamers.
15. Original Music Videos.

Character stats chart

Character stats chart is additional reference that is added either in the beginning or ending of a chapter that you can use to visualization what type of a player a character is. The chart however is oversimplified, therefore can undermine a character's true potentials should not be trusted more than a broad reference.

Here's an example of what a character stats chart looks like:

Sample character

Height: 6'3 (1m93)   Position: Small forward   Archetype: All-rounders

Outside scoring: A-
Inside scoring: B+
Defending: B
Athleticism: B
Playmaking: B
Rebounding: B-
Special ability: B+

Reader's options

During the regular season, you, the reader has the option to choose the matchup that you want to read by commenting down below, the most commented matchup will be selected to be written.

Here's an example reader's options.

FEBRUARY MATCHUPS

1. Lava Buckets vs Takodachi Wahs.
2. NUT vs Yabai Streamers.
3. KFP Employees vs Seiso Idols.
4. Perfection Clocks vs Halu Peacocks.
5. Yubi Yubi vs Festival Bandaids.
6. Nature Mooers vs Oni Docchis.

Sensitive topic

Retired members Uruha Rushia, Tsukumo Sana and Uruha Rushia will be included in the fanfic for the reason that my fantasy existed before their graduations. So please refrain from discussing or spreading negativity on the topic.

With all that said, please enjoy this fanfic as comfortably as you can and immerse yourself in the fantasy world of Hololive Basketball League.

Chapter Text

"For the 28th pick of the first round draft, the Takodachi Wahs selects... Akai Haato from University of Kessoku!"

...

She feels it, Haato hears everyone in the audience clapping, they are all looking attentively at her. She turns to her parents, whose faces looks so proud of their daugther who has made this far. She gives them a tight hug, her father whispers words of encouragements before Haato leaves their arms and heads to the big stage.

At the steps, she's greeted with a staff who gives her a cap with Takodachi Wahs's logo in the center. The cap looks pretty fresh, Haato puts it on, she feels very fresh too. On the big stage, the old commissioner is waiting for Haato, smiling to her from a distance. Haato approaches him, the man shakes her hand and gave a her a small hug.

"Congratulation Miss Haato, welcome to the HBL."

Such a small sequence of actions made Haato mistaken that the commissioner is a grand warden of the most powerful sword of the mystic world, and that only Haato herself could obtain and use the sword to protect the world. "Akai Haato the young one, only your bravery, your intelligence, your unbending will can help change this world."

Haato looks at the audience once more, before saying thanks to the commissioner and stepping down from the stage. Immidiately, she is greeted with a reporter who has prepared Haato an interview.

"Congratulation for being selected Haato. Tell us how do you feel about your selection?"- The reporter asks.

"Well I-I'm very happy that I'm s-selected"- Haato's voice is a bit shaking, she feels both exciment and nervousness from today's experience.- "I-I'm happy that all the hardwork, the days of grinding and waiting have paid off, I finally get to the place I dream of, the place I want to be. I'm thankful of my parents, my agent, my coach and my friends who have helped me getting to the big stage. I will continue to work harder and harder from now on."

"Great that you are happy for getting selected. Now Haato, tell us about your goals in the HBL."- The reporter continue asking.

"Well I want to play alot basketballs, play with all of my passion whenever I'm on the court... but not to sound too humble, I want to win too, I want to win alot of games and bring my team... the Takodachi Wahs a championship."

They both laugh as the reporter continues to ask some more questions when the interview is done. Akai Haato steps back to her table, her eyes full of hope of the bright future ahead.

-

The playing room of H.O.P.E orphanage full of kids, the room is chaotic as children are making alot of loud noises and running off everywhere. A group of 9, 10 year-old boys approach the white hair lioness humanoid girl who looks 2 years younger than them.

"Again little Timmy? You never beat me many times you come here."- The lioness girl says scornfully to a particular boy of the group.

"I ask mr george how to be stronger. And he tells me to train, so I lift alot of rocks, I'm much stronger now."

"Wow your hands look so dirty, do you just lift the rocks?"- The lioness girl looks at the boy's hands as she start laughing.

"S-Shut up! Play a match with me and I will beat you."- The boy hides his hands as he challenges the lioness girl to a certain strength competition.

"Fine, you will cry because you will lose haha."

As the other boys set up the table, the two competitors start putting their elbows onto the table's surface with their right hands holding tightly onto each other. It's an arm wrestling competition!

"Get ready! On 3, 1.......... 3."

"Wait what?!"- As the lioness girl not realizing what's happening, the boy quickly pushes her hand down very hastily. Surprisingly, it's not very far down before the lioness girl becomes aware of the cheap trick and holds his pushing strength back. She then counter attacks with a quick strike, pushing the boy's hand down to the table's surface.

"Hahaha I win again, you are a loser."- The lioness girl smiles gloriously.

The boy starts getting teary as he stomps out of the room, other boys follow. They caught the teacher by surprise as she is entering the room.

"Mhmmm, what's up with that..."- She mumbles.

"Oh hey everyone, today we have a very special guest from our district joining us today, she was picked to play basketball in a big league, please welcome miss Akai Haato!"

The teacher turned to everyone in the room announced it like it was nothing. Most of the students notice what their teacher said, some still play with their toys. Everyone's attention is caught however, when a big silhoutte starts walking through the door. A giant 6'10 (2,08 m) Akai Haato comes to the room, with an awkward smile on her face.

"H-hi."- Haato nervously greets the kids.

The kids look puzzled at Haato's presence, some feel intimidated and try to stay away from Haato. The lioness girl from the corner feels curious about the person who looks much bigger and stronger than her.

"Hahaha... what is this atmosphere?"- Haato thought to herself, as she continues to speak. "H-hey everyone, do any of you want to go outside and play basketball with me?"

"Basketball... What is basketball?"- A boy asks, everyone else look questioned as well.

Haato is surprised. - "Don't you have a basketball court here?"

"Well about that..."- The teacher opens up her mouth as she walks everyone to the big yard.

The basketball court looks old and abandoned, the boards and rims are all rusty and have turned to a disgusting yellow-ish color. The court itself is full of leaves and grass that has much corroded the concrete yard. Random scribbles, old toys and trash are scattered all over the field. Haato feels something about the scene, it's neither positive nor negative.

"Well you see, no one actually knows how to play basketball so we never really bought any ball and play..."- The teacher explains.

"That's alright, I think we can work with this."- Haato replies.

As Haato puts her backpack down to the ground, she unzips the bag, Haato pulls out a big round ball. The basketball is dyed in black with golden texts decorated on some of it's covers that read "Jenny's - feelings of a Champion", the ball is a bit too big compares to a kid's head.

Haato takes the ball with her as she dribbles it down the length of the court, she starts dribbling to the left and to the right, dribbling between her legs, behind the back as she hits a spin move. Everyone is amazed at Haato's sorcery, the lioness girl in particular has her eyes wide open.

"Everyone! The rule of basketball is very simple, All you need to do is to get the ball go through the hoop."- As Haato dribbles near the free throw line, she hits a jumpshot, the ball goes cleanly through the hoop in a swosh fashion.

"You can do it by shooting like I just did."- Haato runs to grab the bouncing ball. "Or you can...."

Haato goes near the basketball hoop as she squats deep down, then shoots herself off the ground so high above that her head almost touches the rim, Haato jams the ball through the hoop powerfully as she hangs onto the rim. The scene is so majestic as if you attached a jetpack into a stone statue and shooted it straight to the Moon. Everyone is cheering and the teacher has her jaw drops, the lioness girl's eyes sparkle with astonishment.

Haato, however, starts questioning her own decision as she feels the rim shaking when...

"Crack!"

Immidiately, the rim breaks apart from the board, carrying Haato to the ground. Haato then lands quite hard on her seat.

"Oh my god miss Haato, are you ok?"- The teacher and the students start running toward Haato to check on her.

"Ouchy... I'm fine, don't worry."- Haato soothes her bum. "Sorry for breaking the board..."

"Are you kidding me? That was awesome!"- A girl exclaims as the gang starts going to the broken rim and the basketball, a boy holds the rim while the girl dunking the ball down.

"Hey don't touch rusted objects, you will be sick."- The teacher's scold is ignored as the kids are having so much fun.

Haato has a smile on her face looking at the kids, then she notices a white hair girl with a peculiar gaze. The girl looks extremely focused with her arms and legs making small twitches, as if the girl is visualizing herself playing the game, reminding Haato the time when she trained hard and played in university tournaments, she had really put her best out there, and her efforts were recognized, that's why she's in the HBL.

Haato stands up and joins the kids as they play on the other unbroken hoop. She teaches them more basics, teaches them how to shoot, the kids are a bit weak to shoot the ball so high but eventually some of the older ones start making shots, they were so happy when a shot comes in. They play and play until late in the afternoon when the teacher tells them it's time for dinner then bed.

"Oh comeeee onnnnn, I want to play some more."- A boy who looks visibly exhausted, still wants to play a bit more.

"You can play tomorrow, now hurry up and get inside."- The teacher then turns to Haato. "Sorry for keeping you so late here, thank you for playing and teaching the kids about basketball, we hope to see you around more."

"It's no problem, I enjoy playing with everyone here, I will come around."- Haato replies.

The teacher smiles lightly at Haato before everyone starts leaving, with only Haato left, holding the ball on the court.

Hmmm feel like I'm missing something...

Haato feels the ball in her hands.

Ah crap! I forgot to give the ball to them.

Haato starts walking when she notices a girl who is hiding behind the pole. The girl comes out as they both look at each other silently for a brief moment, Haato recognizes that it was the lioness girl from earlier.

"U-um hello young one. What are you doing here, don't you suppose to get back to the house?"- Haato asks.

"...H-how do you fly so high?"- The girl sutterly asks.

"You mean dunking? Well if you eat well and train well, one day you can become tall and strong enough to dunk."

"Really?!?"

"Yeah."- Haato goes near the rim and dunks the ball one more, this time she's gentle and tries to not create too much impact. "I can dunk because I eat alot to be tall and train alot to jump high."

The girl looks extremely impressed, Haato smiles at her before continue talking.

"What is your name little girl?"- Haato ask.

"Botan! Chichiron Botan."- The girl enthusiastically answers.

"Well Botan, here's a gift to you, please use it to play with your friends."- Haato hands Botan her basketball.

"Wow!! Really?! You giving your basketball to me!?"- Botan's voice is full of exciment.

"Yes, I'm giving this to you. Now hurry up and go have dinner, you have to eat alot to become tall and strong remember?"

"Ahh, yes. I going to have dinner now, see you miss."

Botan rushes out the court with the new basketball in her hand, before she makes a quick pause and turns around.

"Thank you for the basketbal!!!"- She waves.

As Haato waves back, the girl turns her back and runs far away.

Haato gathers her backpack, looks at the court once more before leaving the place.

Chapter Text

14 years laters...

For the majority of her career, Akai Haato has not been as succesful as how people expect a HBL player to be. In her first year with the Takodachi Wahs, she was traded without being given a single minute on the court. In the span of 14 years in the HBL, Akai Haato has moved to 10 different cities, in most parts, just to be a bench player with minimum wage. She has fought alongside stars such as Shirunai Flare and Tokino Sora but rarely have her teams ever made it to the playoffs. The best year of her career, her fifth year was when her team got to the Western Conference Finals where they got sweeped 0-4 by the AZKi led Omae Ducks who went on and win the HBL championship that year.

Akai Haato is now married and is a mother of two kids. Her family runs quite a succesful catering company, so it’s not very correct to say Haato is struggling financially. But Haato now has a lot of responsibilities that she has to undertake as she’s well-awared of that, Haato now is far from the young, free, full of will girl who got selected 28^th that year. Maybe this is the perfect time for Haato to call it a career of basketball…

…Or so they thought.

“Gura is dribbling down the court for the final shot… Met with double team… Gura passes it to Haato from the corner… Haato posts-up Yukari. She spins, She fades… BANGGGG!!! DAGGER! And The Laughing Penguins have taken the series!!!!!!”

4th quarter, Time: 00:00

Final

Laughing Penguins 113 -  111 NUT

Laughing Penguins 4-3 NUT (LP wins series)

The final shot of the series looked unstoppable, it was so fast that the defender couldn’t react. Ofcourse this was predetermined by the coach, who knows full well about Haato’s secret weapon.

…

“So for this final possesion, Haato will be a little high up near the place where Gura dribbles the ball upto. There’s a high chance Gura will be double teamed and it will comes from Subaru. Haato, you will drop down low and Yukari will switch onto you, that’s when you post her up and shoot a fade, you have been practicing the fadeaways for this whole year right?”[1]

“Yes coach, I’m ready.”

“Alright then people, let’s get to it.”

…

No one expected such an average player to hit such a lethal shot, that’s why Yukari was stunned when Haato executes the sequence of movements so quickly and fluidly, Haato’s fadeaway was not recorded in the “Laughing Penguins analysis” videos she had watched. Yukari just stands there, feels like she’s just a mere witness for the history that has been made for the Laughing Penguins franchise.

“Haachama, you did it! You hit the shot!”- Gura and the Laughing Penguins come rushing to Haato as the cheering of the crowd is deafening when they won in homecourt.

“Haachama” the nickname is roughly translated to “insanity”, is given to the player with the most dangerous, frightening looking shots in the most crucial moments. Haato’s nickname however, was not originated from such a spooky basketball folktale, the story of Haato being called Haachama was when she cooked whole damn spider, brought it to practice and asked if anyone wanted to join the feast.

Quite a silly origin story. But now Haachama has become the name that everyone should be aware about, Haachama is a player especially dangerous in the post, with fadeaway shots that seemingly unstoppable, with her toughness on the defensive end and her experience in reading the game.

It's true that Haato has not been a very succesful HBL player for the most of her career. But in the last 2 seasons, Haato ramped up her games, worked twice as hard as she normally did and desired results were achieved. Haato's average PPG (point per game) went from 8.3-> 15.7. For this season, she's averaging 18.0 ppg, and 22 points alone on today's game, Haato gets to start in most games of the Laughing Penguins.

"LET'S GOOOOO, EASTERN CONFERENCE FINAL."- Haato shouts out of joy, in tune with the hype from her teammates and the cheering crowd.

The hype went on for a bit before slowly dying down, the team heads to the locker room to hear their coach's brief for their next series against the Qs in the Eastern Conference Final. 

"First of all, congratulation you all for winning the series, we have worked hard throughout the year and our prayers were answered, we are now heading to Eastern Conference Final."

Everyone clapping, cheering before the coach continues.

"For today's performance, I'm especially proud of Haato, you have worked so hard throughout the year and today you played exceptionally well, you have grown to become a great leader of the team. So everyone, please cheer for our beloved Haachama."

Everyone is clapping, cheering and shouting "Haachama", Gura even comes down to tickles Haato which caught her a bit surprise. But Haato gratefully accept her teammates' kindness. As the cheering silents down a bit, the coach continues.

"As I'm very confident in our ability to win, but it's lying to say I'm not worry about our next games."- He pauses for a moment before continues. "We are going to face The Qs led by Shishiro Botan."

Shishiro Botan the MVP, leading the 1st seeded Qs.

The locker room suddenly becomes silent when these two names are mentioned, everyone seems to know that the next matchup will be the toughest battles they will fight in this playoff season. Haato herself is familiar with the MVP...

Only in her 3rd season has Botan grown to become a legend of basketball.

36.2 Points, 10.0 Rebounds per game.

The statistics can only be replicated by the best of the best players of a basketball generation. Shishiro Botan is blessed with everything a basketball player could ever dreamed of: her crazy agility, her superhuman's strength, her basketball IQ that makes her games more than just relying on muscles, her high flying jams and airwalks that no human in the league can replicate and most importantly, her ability to scores on anyone in any given situation.

Haato played against Botan a couple of matches in the regular seasons. Those times Botan scored 32, 41, 38 and 50! with all of the four games the Qs being victorious. One word Haato uses to describe Botan would be "unguardable". Botan makes anyone guarding her feels like ants, she either outspeeds you with her crazy ability to accelerate then brake anytime, making you stun at one place like an idiot, or she can humiliate you with her monstrous jams. Haato is dunked on three times by Botan and she quite didn't like the experience. Will this time be different from that 4 games? Haato is quite unsure herself.

"Haato, I have always trusted your offensive ability, your ability to make shots and read the plays. But right now, your defense will be the thing that leads our team victory. For the next series, you will take on the role of guarding Shishiro Botan. Make sure to lock her down and seal the beast so that our offense can run smoothly without any worry, we are known for our solid offense afterall."- The coach talks in a serious tone.

"Yes coach, I will try my best."- Haato voice isn't as confident as she wants it to be.

"Alright that's enough for the future, now we celebrate, let's go to A-Chan's BBQ, my treat."- The coach offers to pay the team a meal.

"LETS FUCKING GOOO!!!"- Gura's voice is full of exciment.

As everyone is moving out, Haato pauses for a moment as she just stands there silently.

Haato looks at the basketball at the corner of the locker room who is as still and silent as her. Haato has alot of thoughts, about her victory shots, about her career and about the next games. But worry not, if there's an important thing Haato has learnt throughout years of playing that would be not letting too much thought worries her, Haato is instead is excited for the future ahead of her.

Haato turns her back against the door as she quickly joins the gang to the bus of celebration.

-

"What's up with you today? You look visibly happy."- Moona questions the friend next to her.

"Nothing much, I'm just excited for our next series."- Botan naturally answers Moona.

"Against the Penguins? I thought they are a no-match to you."

"It's not about winning or losing, it's about playing basketball with a friend."

As Botan answered Moona, she quickly dribbles the basketball near the basket of the practice court and throw down a quick spin dunk.

"A friend huh?" - Moona is curious about Botan's "friend" but now she just walks it off and resume to practice.

-

2020 HBL Estern Conference Final

Laughing Penguins's starting line up:

Gawr Gura 2 - Point guard

Jackie Beth 24 - Shooting guard

Nanashi Mumei 42 - Small forward

Akai Haato 25 - Power forward

Barbara Jones 33 - Center

The Qs's starting line up:

Hoshinova Moona 14 - Point guard

Kita Akira 7 - Shooting guard

Maiha Mcleen 67 - Small forward

Shishiro Botan 1 - Power forward

Elizabeth Winter 88 - Center

The day has come for the 2020 HBL Eastern Conference final, The Laughing Penguins will fight their first game against the Qs at their home court. The stadium is full of Penguin fans with some of Qs jerseys as well. All eyes are on the two teams leaders: In yellow jersey, Laughing Penguins's Gawr Gura and in black jersey, The Qs's Shishiro Botan. Funny how the two best players of the two teams are on opposite spectrum of height, we have 6'0 (1,83m) agile point guard Gawr Gura as well as 6'9 (2,10m) giantic power forward Shishiro Botan.

Everyone is impressed at Botan's builds, her body looks super athletic and well-proportioned with a V-shaped frame. Her shoulders, arms and calfs are stacked with rock-solid muscles. The weird thing is, despite how strong Botan's body appears to be, her face does not look dry at all, she looks gorgeous and feminine with pairs of natural light pink lips, thick eyelids as well as her deep, sharp eyes. "A face model that has the body of an athlete".

As Botan is tying her ponytail, everyone is blessed with a scene to behold, her neck is so smooth and bright as if it's inviting the viewers to give it a kiss. Botan stretches her body before going for a few warm-up shots and layups.

Haato is looking at the Qs and Shishiro Botan while warming up her shots, she feels a certain jitter in her chest as she hopes for the best outcome for today's game.

Gawr Gura notices her teammate from afar, starts launching herself to Haato and slaps her in the back.

Slap!

"Ouch! What the heck was that?!"- Haato shouts in pain.

"Come on big Chama, don't tell me you are nervous?"- Gura is looking at Haato, her face looks full of smugs.

"I-I'm not nervous! ...  .... .... Well maybe a bit..."- Haato looks at Gura's face who seem uninterested.

"You should not worry at all big Chama, you got yourself the great shark on your side."- Gura assures Haato that she will bring their team victory which Haato completely trusts.

"Yes I'm counting you miss great shark."

"FTWEEEEEEEEET!!!"

As the whistle blows, both teams stop warming up and go back to the bench to hear their coaches brief about the initial tatics before the game starts in 2 minutes.

"For the first possesion, if we get the ball, we will do a simple pick and roll with Gura immidiately hitting a spot up shot or pass it to Barbara. If we don't get the ball, Mumei you will find a chance to double team Botan right away with Haato, and everything else should be as we have planned."

"Yes coach!"- everyone speaks in unison.

"Alright, LET'S GO PENGUINS!"- The coach gives his hand in the middle which is soon joined by other hands.

"LET'S GO PENGUINS!!!"- Everyone shouts.

"FTWEEEEEEEEET!!!"

As the second whistle blows, everyone walks to the middle of the court where a referee who's holding a ball is waiting for them. The centers of two team get into position and squat down, ready for the jumpball.

"FTWEEEEEEEEET!!!"

As the whistle is blown, the ball is thrown high up as the centers of two teams begins jumping. Barbara touches the ball mid-air as she tips it down to Gura, the first possession is belonged to Laughing Penguins.

Gura dribbles the ball down the court is immidiately met with Moona right inside the arc who will be guarding her. 

Barbara comes set Moona up to a screen, Gura dribbles to the screen and immidiately hits a three-pointer.

BANG!

The ball goes smoothly through the basket, the crowd cheer for the first bucket made as the Penguins run back to defense.

But something doesn't feel right...

As Gura runs back to defense, Moona throws the ball goes right by her face at bullet speed, which ends up in Botan's hands who somehow is already near the Penguins's basket with no defender on her. Botan takes off and throws down a ground-shaking dunk, silencing the home crowd.[2] 

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapter's character stats:

Akai Haato

Height: 6'10 (2,08 m)   Position: Power Forward   Archetype: Two-way inside threat.

Outside scoring: C+
Inside socring: B
Defending: B+
Athlecitism: B
Playmaking: C
Rebounding: B
Special ability: B

Tatics used in chapter explanation:

[1]

"So for this final possesion, Haato will be a little high up near the place where Gura dribbles the ball upto. There’s a high chance Gura will be double teamed and it will comes from Subaru."

"Haato, you will drop down low and Yukari will switch onto you"

"that’s when you post her up and shoot a fade"

[2]

"Gura dribbles the ball down the court is immidiately met with Moona right inside the arc who will be guarding her."

"Barbara comes set Moona up to a screen."

"Gura dribbles to the screen and immidiately hits a three-pointer."

"As Gura runs back to defense, Moona throws the ball goes right by her face at bullet speed, which ends up in Botan's hands who somehow is already near the Penguins's basket with no defender on her. Botan takes off and throws down a ground-shaking dunk, silencing the home crowd."

Chapter Text

1st quarter, Time: 11:30

Laughing Penguins 3 - 2 The Qs

As Botan lands down from the dunk, she balances herself to stand straight up, her posture is nothing short of a demonic basketball player, surrounding her silhoutte is what feeling like a black burning aura, suffocating everyone in the stadium. Botan very quickly runs back to defense.

Gura dribbles the ball up the court again, this time she must be careful in reusing the pick and roll tatic as the other team has learnt. As well as be mindful of the Botan threat.

Gura start using her shifty handles to break her defender down, she starts going to the left which Moona immidiately reacts, then right away, Gura changes direction and stuns Moona at the spot.

As she continues to drive, she is met with Shishiro Botan who is waiting for her in the post. Gura immidiately jumps for a floater but her shot get smoothered by Botan's high fly hand and misses, resulting in a rebound for the Qs as they counter attacks.

The ball is given to Botan in the low post as she's posting up Haato. Botan bounces the ball really hard onto the ground as the sounds of the impacts echo throughout the stadium.

“Baum! Baum! Baum!”

Botan powefully pushes Haato closer and closer to the basket. Haato feels like she's tanking a flying rocket as she receives alot of pressure mentally and physically.

The pressure very quickly returns to 0 when Botan spins away from Haato and score an easy layup.

“Swoshhhh!”

"Haachama, helps me"

As Gura is faciliating the offense on LP’s possession, she is mad that Botan tipped her shot off, that's why she calls Haato to set her a screen so she can switch to Botan, as Haato does so. Haato blocks Moona on reaching to Gura so Botan has to switch to her. Then everyone else stretches the court out so Gura can isolate Botan.

As Gura performs a series of trick dribbles, Botan looks unfazed. Gura drives really fast to the left which Botan immidiately catches up to, but then she switches to the right which succesfully immobilizes Botan for a brief second. But Botan isn't like anyone, she balances herself immidiately and pressures Gura's drive which forces Gura to make a bad shots and turns the ball over.

"DAMN YOU!"- Gura looks visibly upset as she keeps glancing at Botan while defending Moona, seeing this, Moona uses the opportunity to shoot a three right infront of Gura's distracted face and...

BANG!

The shot goes smoothly through the basket.

"FTWEEEEEEEEET!!!"

"Time out Penguins."- As the announcer calls

1st quarter, Time: 10:36

Laughing Penguins 3 - 7 The Qs

"Gura, are you alright out there?"- The LP coach asks with some concerns during their timeout.

"Yea, I'm fine coach. And I know I know, I let my emotions control me... but it's upset to acknowledge that the monster overthere is really strong. Today isn't even my bad day but she turned me into an idiot."- Gura's reply feels calmer than expected.

The coach smiles with relief.

"Alright then, if you are alright then now we will proceed to..."

1st quarter, Time: 00:00

Laughing Penguins 22 - 33 The Qs

As the Penguins came back and played solidly for the 1st quarter, they weren't successful in restraining Botan as she scored 15 points in a single quarter by making super fast drives, formless shots and absurb dunks. Haato herself was the main victim of most of Botan's made shots as Botan only missed once when Haato were defending her. Everyone in the Penguins knows despite the seemingly bad performance of Haato, she is their only answer in defending the beast of league.

As Haato is catching her breath during the quarter break, she looks down onto the floor with thoughts running wildly inside her head. Haato is extremely unsatisfied with her performance defending Botan. Haato knows full well that successfully locking Botan down will be the key for their team's victory as The Qs is not a defensive team and will have no answer to Penguins's team-orientated offense scheme.

But it seems like there's nothing she can do against this monster of a lioness, Shishiro Botan is unhumanly fast, strong and sharp. When Haato faced Botan head on, she was easily surpassed by Botan's crazy athleticism. When Haato set Botan up for a defensive trap, she immidiately recognized and scored in other ways, or she just powered herself through the trap. Haato is annoyed that she can't wrap her head around this particular "human".

Think Haato, think.

As both Haato and Botan won't be playing for half of the 2nd quarter, Haato will have some time to think. 14 years in the HBL Haato knows well that if everything turns against her, her analytic brain will always stay alongside her. Everyone in the bench seems a little concerned of how serious Haato looks.

2nd quarter, Time: 6:32

Laughing Penguins 36 - 48 The Qs

"FTWEEEEEEEEET!!!"

As both Haato and Botan check in, Haato's face has completely changed. She looks extremely determined and focused, as she looks far ready for the war that is occuring. She looks straight into Botan's eyes, signalling the opponent that she's not afraid to take on her.

Botan catches her matchup's gaze, her heart is full of exciment, her mouth and eyes are wide open as Botan has a demonic grin on her face. The gorgeous, friendly looking girl during the warm-up has disappeared, now replaced with a beast that is lusting to eat her prey alive.

As Gura is dribbling the ball up, she's completely shocked by the scene. Both of the forwards at the right corner is attracting all eyes on them as they emit such enormous battle aura. Gura takes a look at Haato's face.

Hope!

She smiles with confidence as it looks like there's finally a chance of winning.

"Gura!"

Haato runs through the court with Botan following right after, who holds her hand out, signalling Gura to pass her the ball. 

You better bring us success Big Chama!

Gura gives Haato a quick dime as Haato catches the ball with tight grip and quickly turns it into a fadeaway jumpshot that catches Botan by surprise. 

BANG!

The shot goes right in as Haato wastes no time and goes back to defense.

Yes Haato-nee! Yes!

Moona dribbles down the court, she observes and runs at the offense but the heck is going on? The Penguins don't look like themselves in 1st quarter, everyone of their team seems to have locked in and play rock solid defense. There's absolutely no gap for mistake.

:03

As the shot clock start ticking down, Moona is forced to make a bad pass to their center Elizabeth which is intercepted by Penguins's Jackie.

Jackie passes the ball to Gura, who immidiately sees Haato running to the other side of the court holding out the same hands and face she did from the last possession. Gura bullet passes the ball to Haato who takes off and jams the ball down from mid-air.

Botan didn't it make in time to defend Haato as she looks at Haato's dunk from afar, chill runs through her spines.

Yes! Yes! Yes!

2nd quarter, Time: 5:52

Laughing Penguins 40 - 48 The Qs

As Moona dribbles the ball up, she’s surprised to see Botan at the corner who is looking straight at her in the eyes, eager for Moona to pass her the ball.

Moona drives the ball around to look for a good position, then passes the ball to Botan.

As Botan receives the ball from Moona, Haato immidiately closes the space with her, causing Botan to lose any initiative in attacking the basket.

My, my Haato nee-chan, you are so adorable, but…

Everyone in the court would think that Haato’s defense suffocates any chance of Botan attacking and that she will pass the ball back to Moona but…

For such a small window of space Botan has, she dribbles the ball back and forth between her legs, with each dribble Botan twitches her body slightly in opposite directions attempting to fake a drive on Haato.  As soon as she catches Haato get a bit reactive on her fakes, Botan immidiately drives and catches Haato off her momentum.

Despite losing her momentum, Haato still trying to catch up to Botan and only milliseconds behind her. Unfortunately, that’s enough for Botan to capitalize on Haato’s mistake and scores a two-point finger roll.

Gura feels the vibrance of the game after the back-and-forths between Haato and Botan. Her teammates are running wildly on offense as the Qs’s defense is also reacting accordingly. But Gura herself can’t help locking her eyes Haato who looks extremely absorbed in her game.

As Gura makes a pass to Haato.

As the ball is coming to the hand of Haato, Botan excitedly waiting to see what her matchup will do next and…

Eh?

Haato catches the ball and waste no time as she jumps high and ready to make a shot.

Not enough!

Only by squatting down a little bit, Botan has generated a ton of force that lift her high up into the air as she raises her arm up and ready to block Haato’s shot…

…but Haato isn’t going to shot that.

Haato switches her arms from a shooting position into a passing position as she pass the ball to Mumei in the corner while still in mid-air.

Mumei with open space in the corner, spots up for a three-pointer…

“BANG!”

The Penguins in high spirit, rush off to defense. As Haato runs back into defense right near Mumei, they make a powerful high-five.

“PAP!”

Botan’s heart is filled with excitement, she makes an ironic laugh that makes Moona a bit concerned for her.

As both teams exchange blows after blows, no one seems to able to stop the other team’s attacks. Botan keeps making easy shots left and right with her offense brilliancy. After Haato’s great plays, everyone in the Penguins scores a shot: Mumei scores an easy two pointer, Barbara scores a hook shot in the post, Jackie spots up for a three-pointer, Gura herself with her shifty movements, stuns her defender for an easy driving layups.

The game is perfectly balance until…

0:20

With 20 seconds left in the quarter, Botan is holding the ball for possibly the final basket of the half. Facing Botan is her beloved match-up, Akai “Haachama” Haato. For this possession, it’s time to prove to the Penguins that offense without defense will never win a championship and that Botan will score on their faces whenever, however she wants to. Botan herself is decided.

I will dunk on you nee-chan.

As Botan starts moving, Haato quickly follows. Botan has a really quick first step but this is enough for Haato to catch up. Thing however starts to feel weird when Botan suddenly brakes, as she squats down powerfully and ready for a flight.

Haato’s eyes are wide open as her vision is locked in every movement Botan makes. This preparation of Botan is a bit slower than her other ones, that’s why when she takes off, Botan will jump crazy high and there’s no way Haato could match. That’s why Haato has to be the one who jumps first to give a stop to The Qs’s offense.

Which is seemingly impossible for a player like her to pull off…

-

“What is this that you wrote in here Haato?”- The teacher’s holding a paper, waving it back and forth at Haato who is sitting on the opposite end of her.

“It’s my choice of career, you said to submit the paper with our career choices when we are out of school.”- Haato silently replies.

“Yes, but it said you wanted to be the best player of the world playing in the HBL with 10 rings. Is this a joke or something?”- The teacher seems to raise her voice, she looks unsatisfied.

“I’m not joking.”- Haato objects, her voice is a bit annoyed.

“Look, I know you really love basketball and your team got second in the last tournament, but you have to seriously consider your choices so you don’t fall hard in the future. I already asked Mr. Joseph about your choice of career and he said you would not be enough to play in the HBL.”

“He said that?”- Haato has her eyes wide open, she looks bewildered.

“Yes. Now please reconsider your choices carefully, I won’t laugh at you for this joke but you have to know I already consider all things to give you safe advices for your choices. We will contact your parents and talk further from this…”

…

-

Come on Haato push! PUSH!

Haato accumulates force in her muscles as her neurons start firing all over her body ferociously. Her legs shaking uncontrollably for holding such intense waves of force in a short period of time. Then all is released as the force lift Haato high in the air.

What the f-

As Botan jumps, she couldn’t react, Haato’s hand is ready waiting in the sky for Botan to dunk the ball that will certainly be deflected.

“GRAHHHHHHHHHHH!”

Haato slaps the ball out of Botan’s hands who is completely helpless mid-air. The ball ends up in Gura’s catch.

:06

With 6 seconds in the quarter, Gura runs the balls very fast on the fastbreak attacks as she looks for the co-attackers.

:05

As Gura spots Barbara who’s up higher than her, she throws the pass anticipating Barbara’s running trajectory.

:04

The ball at bullet speed, flies pass the two defenders who’s running off to defend the final play.

:03

Barbara catches the ball and take two powersteps near the basket.

:02

Barbara takes off from the momentum.

:01

Barbara dunks the ball down with two hands.[1]

:00

"FTWEEEEEEEEET!!!"

As the ball lands down through the basket from the dunk, everyone was holding their breath. The crowd starts getting to their feet and loud cheerings are followed soon after.

“HELL YEAH!”

Barbara still hanging on the rim, is extremely satisfied with her highlight.

Even Gura herself couldn’t contain her excitement and punch her elbows down while loudly shouting “YEAHHHHHHHHHHHH!”

Botan standing there, her eyes are full of disbelief.

Haato nee blocked me… she blocked me…

Botan feels flustered as she hugs herself, her heart is pounding very fast. Botan thinks she’s in love.

Thank you for introduced me to this sport nee-chan… I truly love basketball with all of my heart and soul.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapter's character stats:

Gawr Gura

Height: 6' (1,83m)   Position: Point Guard   Archetype: Offensive threat

Outside scoring: A
Inside scoing: B+
Defending: C+
Athlecitism: A
Playmaking: A-
Rebounding: D
Special ability: A-

Tatics used in chapter explanation:

[1]

"Haato slaps the ball out of Botan’s hands who is completely helpless mid-air. The ball ends up in Gura’s catch."

"With 6 seconds in the quarter, Gura runs the balls very fast on the fastbreak attacks as she looks for the co-attackers."

"As Gura spots Barbara who’s up higher than her, she throws the pass anticipating Barbara’s running trajectory."

"The ball at bullet speed, flies pass the two defenders who’s running off to defend the final play."

"Barbara catches the ball and take two powersteps near the basket."

"Barbara takes off from the momentum and dunks the ball down with two hands."

Chapter Text

2nd quarter, Time: 00:00

Laughing Penguins 57 - 63 The Qs

The Laughing Penguins’s locker room is bustling with laughs, exchanges and talks from everyone in the team.

Gura launches herself into Haato, giving her a big hug, causing Haato a short of breath.

“I love you Haachama, please marry me.”- Gura romantically proposes.

“Sorry little Goomba, I can’t marry you, I’m already married.”- REJECTED.

Gura puffs her cheeks, clearly sulked.

As the coach walks into the locker room.

“Alright everyone great job in the quarter, you guys really held the Qs back, especially you Haato, great performance out there.” – Everyone seems to be lighted up by the coach’s words as he continues. “But this isn’t time for celebration, a deficit is still a deficit and we still have games ahead that we need to play. In the next quarter, we will proceed the plan too…”

3rd quarter, Time: 12:00

Laughing Penguins 57 - 63 The Qs

The Qs will have the first possession in the 3^rd quarter. As Botan drives up to the opposite half-court, she is met with Haato who is waiting for her right inside the arc.

With a smirk on her face, Botan wastes no time and drives straight to Haato’s right side, trying to outspeed her.

Haato catches up quickly but Botan abruptly brakes and shoot a fadeaway jumpshot. Haato jumps up to contest.

“Swish!”

The shot went smoothly through the basket with Haato’s finger missed only by tenth of an inch.

“Tsk!”- Haato is unsatisfied with her play.

Botan isn’t smiling either, clearly Haato can still catch up to her speed but now she just goes back to defense.

As Gura drives the ball up, there are two persons waiting for her at the corner, looking straight into Gura’s eyes.

“Pass me the ball Gura!”

“Pass her the ball Gura!”

Despite knowing her teammate’s limitation, Gura can’t help but gamble everything on Haato. If Haato makes this shot, maybe the game will turn around for good.

As there’s only one answer, Gura sends her prayer to Haato for a championship ahead of them.

Haato catches the ball, Botan’s defense stance is completely locked. Botan is ready to take Haato head-on.

“So what are you going to do now nee-chan? Shoot a blitz? Pass the ball away? Either of ways, this will be your end.”

Haato in her triple threat position, tries to pump fake to observe Botan’s reactions.

“Tsk.”

Botan reacts very quickly to Haato’s action, much faster than Haato had expected. If Haato tries to score on Botan, she’ll be stopped completely.

“If not now, then when?!”

Haato’s legs’ muscles start firing up rapidly, anticipating a drive. Botan can feel her opponent getting ready for an attack, she’s ready to take on Haato.

“PUSH HAATO! PUSH!”

As Haato’s right foot leaves the ground, Botan flicks her entire body to the right. Time slows down as the two fighters’ perceptions waiting for their bodies to catch up. Witnessing her opponent’s serious, combative attitude, Botan’s heart is full of joy, her arms are wide open, ready to embrace Haato into her heart.

For outsiders looking in, the sequences of actions are so fast that they barely catchup.

Haato drives the ball to the right, Botan follows right after. Haato try to launch herself down the lane but is blocked by Botan. Haato back down slightly and immidiately retry launching herself to the right, Botan catch up with her movements very quick.

What will you do now nee-chan? Underhand layup so I can’t block ya? Don’t be so naïve.

As Haato make the two-step near the basket, she jumps up and put her hand faraway from the basket, anticipating for an underhand layup, as Botan has predicted.

Botan jumps and raises her arm diagonally, ready to block the pending layup.

As a lot will think that the shot is going to be blocked as Haato bends her body down, swings her arm down low, and score a low reverse layup.

The shot goes in.

“WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOH!”

The crowd goes absolutely wild, deafens the stadium with claps of cheerings and acclaims as a player in their home team are playing godly basketball.

Gura’s face is brightened up, pleasantly surprise of what Haato is putting up down the court. This is not the image of an average, solid, “all-fundamental” teammate that she used to see everyday. No, she has never seen Haato like this before. Who is this woman that god has sent to this team?

--------------

This had been the 10^th times or so that Haato returned to the H.O.P.E orphanage. As usual, Haato was playing with the kids on the basketball court, the rim was fixed so they could play on both sides of the court. 13 years or olders played on one side of the court since they could already score and had learnt some of the fundamentals, while the younger ones were being guided by Haato on the other side.

“Awwww you missed.”- Haato whined jokingly as a young girl who was nearby her missed a shot.

“This so hard miss Haato! The rim is so high!”

“Don’t worry, you will get stronger as you grow older.”

The kids on this side of the court were typically not strong enough to shoot a basket so Haato just teaches them how to dribble and pass the ball around, there is one exception however.

Shishiro Botan, who just turned 9 years old, was a bit too strong and too fast for her age. Even though, Botan’s dribble wasn’t truly skillful and her shooting range was still limited, Botan had already been of the most talented scorer of the orphange.

Botan rushed to Haato from the other side of the court, shined with a victorious smile.

“Haato nee-chan! I just beated them again!”

“That’s great! Seem like you are really good at basketball.”

“I know hehe.”- Botan had a big smile on her face…

--------------

3rd quarter, Time: 11:22

Laughing Penguins 59 - 65 The Qs

 Moona dribbles the ball up to the court and to no one’s surprise, Botan is holding her hands out and waiting for a pass.

Jeez what’s with these two, we are playing a team sport y’know? You better not mess this up.

As how the game has been progressing, Moona passes the ball to Botan who is immidiately followed by Haato.

Botan start posting Haato up, this time Botan pushes Haato back with a lot of forces, walking on a thin line between a legitimate play and an charging foul.

“Urgh…”

Taking in so much force from Botan’s pushes, Haato feels like she could be falling anytime. Haato could fake a fall and pray for a charging foul but she doesn’t want to risk giving a free basket to Botan and giving the momentum back to the Qs.

Haato has to time the exact moment she needs to break contact with Botan to block her.

Now!

Sensing a slight change Botan’s movement, Haato breaks free from Botan’s contact, squats deep down and ready to jump.

There are two options Botan can go for right now, either she outspeeds Haato or passes the ball outside, but she is not the one to back down.

I’m faster than you nee-chan!

Botan takes off, follows up by Haato who is only milliseconds behind.

But it doesn’t matter who jumped first, as Haato jumped higher than she have ever jumped.

“BOM!”

The sound of the block can be heard all over the stadium, Botan who’s still in mid-air is in complete shock that Haato blocked her again.

The deflected ball lands on Gura’s hands who immidiately initiates counter-attack.

As Haato’s still floating mid-air, she feels something quite strange. Her jump didn’t feel natural at all and her legs feel quite numb. Haato is completely off-balance as she knows the landing won’t be pretty.

“Crack!”

Haato lands on her right ankle which make an absurd audible sound. A horrible pain follows right after.

“AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!”

Gura is caught surprise by her teammate’s scream, but immidiately regains focus and scores a fastbreak layup.

“FTWEEEEEEEET!”

The refs call a time-out after Gura’s bucket, everyone comes to check on Haato.

Haato holds her ankle, squirming in pain as medics rush hastily into the scene for first-aid procedure.

One girl holds Haato tight to makes sure her pose is in balance while the other apply medicine and bandages Haato’s foot. Haato closes her eyes, try not to cry from the pain she’s enduring.

“Are you going to be alright Haachama?”- Gura concernedly asks her injured teammate.

“I-I’m going to fine-e… Please don’t worry too much, o-okay?”- Haato's voice stutters, as if she is trying to cover up the lingering pain.

As two men comes with a stretcher, it seems like Haato will be transported out of the court soon.

Lying on the stretcher, Haato encourages her teammates.

“I believe in all of you, we will win this one, okay?”

All nod without saying a single word.

Haato then turns toward Botan who looks astonished of what just happened. Haato smiles warmly to assure that it wasn’t her fault.

Haato is soon carried out of the court.

-

In the medical room, Haato is lying on a medical bed, watching the ceiling fan spinning slowly and slowly. Haato is waiting to be admitted to the hospital as she heard the doctor talking along the line something about her injury being quite severe and will have long term damages. Haato doesn’t really have much thought about it, she just feels relieved that the pain has decreased quite a bit. Haato has already known that she will pay the price for the amount of pressure she had put on her body throughout the years.

How long has it been? 13 years? 14 years?

Reminiscing her basketball journey, Haato’s story isn’t the most glorious modern day basketball story that can be told, but it isn’t a short-lived one either. Haato has gone far with basketball and she has made a lot of friends along the way. Haato does wish she could play basketball a bit longer.

Sorry for not playing basketball with you more.

“Screeech.”

The door of the medical room is opened, comes two three men in medical uniforms.

“We gonna take you to the hospital now Haato-san, please just relax and we will try to make the job comfortable to you.”

The men proceed to carry Haato onto the wheeled stretcher and start moving out to the ambulance.

“How’s thing going on out there?”- Haato asks the men who is carrying her outside

“The third just ended, the Qs is about 85, and our team is 75 I think.”

“Ah I see…”

…

-

Later that afternoon…

“Hey what’s up Big Chamada!”- Gura kicks the hospital’s door, bringing in the gang and a giant ass fruits basket.

“Heyyyy!”

Gura put the basket on the table as she and everyone start taking seats near Haato’s bed.

“How is your leg Haato-senpai?”- Jackie asks.

“Well it’s not hurting anymore so you guys don’t have to be worried…”- Haato assures that she’s getting better but her voice doesn’t sound so confident.

“You don’t have to worry too much Haachama, just take your time and rest and leave everything else to us…”- Gura pauses before switching to a more serious tone. “About the match…”

“Yeah, I heard that we did not win.”

“Jeez, I don’t know what’s wrong with that Botan girl, but we will bounce back, you’ll see!”- Gura swings her fists randomly into the air, ready for a fight.

“Heh I know you will win little shark.”

“How about you Haato-senpai, will you be able to join the next games?”- Barbara asks.

Haato looks at her bandaged leg then smiles awkwardly at Barbara.

“Well I’m not so sure… But hey you guys are very strong, you guys can win every battle with or without me on the court.”

Everyone looks a bit sad but they all somewhat figured, Gura slams the table.

“Hey! I told Haato to rest her best didn’t I. Don’t worry Haachama, you can trust us, we will win, Laughing Penguins this year is really strong.”

Everyone smiles at Gura’s cuteness, Haato places complete trust in her teammates.

“Yes I trust everyone here, please continue to win and become the champion.”

-

Laughing Penguins 100 – 120 The Qs

Laughing Penguins 87 – 94 The Qs

Laughing Penguins 112 – 114 The Qs

Series ended

Laughing Penguins 0 – 4 The Qs

The Qs win Eastern Conference Finals.

-

With Jackie missing the last shot to tie the game, the playoffs run has ended for the Laughing Penguins. The Qs wins at their homecourt with cheerings of the audience overwhelm everything else, no one would take notice of the Laughing Penguins and the unfortunate situation that has stolen them a potential championship. Haato did not recover in time to play for the rest of the series, she was fortunate enough to watch the final game as history repeats itself one more: her team gets sweeped in the conference finals.

“Come on, let’s congratulate them.”- The coach hints to the players about the post-game greeting as everyone stands up and come to the other floor to congratulate to the new Conference Champion.

Haato stands up with her crutches as she walks up to the other side unsteadily.

Botan catches her old mate walking uglily toward her, she can’t help but feeling an ache in the heart.

“Hey congratulation for wining, you have become such an amazing player.”

“Thank you, Haato-san.”

“Hehe, I wish I could battle it out with you more, it’s very fun to play with you.”

Hearing Haato’s warm words, Botan grips her hands tight.

“Haato ne- san, I’m sorry about your legs...”

Haato is surprised that Botan takes blame for her injury.

“There is nothing to sorry about, I jumped in horrible form so I expected to land horribly… Beside I already surpassed my limit long ago.”

“What do you mean?”- Botan opens her eyes wide, she wishes her interpretation of Haato’s words is wrong.

“I wish I could play with you more… But there’re simply too many reasons to quit, and now a reason has become so prominent that I can’t hide from it anymore.”

“You can still recover right? I have seen injuries like this all the time. It could take a bit long… but as long as you recover well, we can still play with each other.”

Haato smiles at Botan’s positivity, if only we could be happy by simply wishing for it.

“This one is very different, I’m sure. It’s not just my ankles that is in error, I was pushing my body way too hard, now I have to pay the price… Usually when I’m injured, I can feel the injury will be recovered but now I feel nothing… This is it for me.”

“I see…”

“But heyy, I’m not dying or something like that, we can still play casual basketball with each other.”

“Y-Yes, Yes we can!”- Botan smiles wholeheartedly.

As the Penguins starting to leave, Haato still has one more request to ask.

“Before I leave, can I give you a congratulation hug?”- As Haato opens her arms wide to receive Botan.

“A hug? Sure.”

As Botan comes to Haato, Haato’s hands lay Botan’s head onto her chest. Botan can feel each and every heartbeat of her senpai’s, it beats so softly and rhythmically, as dearing as the callings of mother nature. Haato’s embrace is so warm, so fluffy that Botan doesn’t want to leave her new beloved pillow, if only this moment could last forever.

“I’m sorry for not saying goodbye properly.”- Haato whispers.

Haato’s sudden words make spice runs all over Botan’s nose, her face gets all heated as Botan’s eyes are wet with emotions.

“You don’t have to be sorry”- Botan wants to say, but a part of her childly self wants the explanation she has seeked for so long.- “You don’t have to disappear so sudden like that, we could have played basketball with each other forever ever.”

The hug goes on for while when Haato let Botan out of her arms. Haato gives Botan a loving smile before coming back with her teammates to leave the court.

Moona has never seen this side of Botan before as Botan just stands there quietly and look at the leaving Penguins. Moona is hesistant to approach Botan but she eventually does anyway.

“Hey... what do you think?”- Moona asks, her head hinting at a Penguins player who has light brown hair with two sticks of feather on top her head.

“Yeah that girl is a dangerous one, we need to keep an eye on her from now on.”

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapter's character stats:

Nanashi Mumei

Height: 6'4 (1,98 m)   Position: Small Forward   Archetype: ???

Outside scoring: ?
Inside socring: ?
Defending: ?
Athlecitism: ?
Playmaking: ?
Rebounding: ?
Special ability: ?