The gym echoed with the familiar rhythm of sneakers squeaking against the polished floor.
But this Thursdayevening, there was no usual banter, no music pulsing from the speakers.
Only the sound of breathing measured, uncertain and the low hum of tension.
The boy's basketball team stood in two rows, eyes locked on Hikari Kanzaki as she strode down the middle like a general before battle. Clipboard in hand, expression unreadable.
She clicked her pen, sharp and deliberate.
"Alright," she began. "You've heard the rules. You've seen the pairings. Now we test it out."
She looked each player in the eye. "No words. No signals. No talking. You'll learn to read your partner through movement and instinct."
Rei muttered under his breath, "This is going to be hell."
Hikari didn't miss a beat. "You may speak before the drill begins, but once I blow the whistle you go silent. Understood?"
The team answered in unison. "Yes, Coach!"
The whistle hung around her neck like a guillotine.
