On the television screen, the joy of making it to the Summer Koshien's Final Four for the second consecutive year engulfed every member of the Waseda Industries team—especially those who could only watch from the stands and cheer last year, and who have now just become starters, making them feel immensely happy to be part of such a great endeavor.
At the center of the frame was still the face of Lin Guanglai. Compared to others' happiness, although his face bore a victorious smile, it expressed more of a tranquility that comes after weathering countless storms.
"Knock, knock."
Kobayashi Tetsuya gently tapped the table, drawing all the attention of the Narashino players over.
"Since we made it to the Final Four, you all have seen a lot of Waseda Industries' games—share your thoughts, like your views on the opponent, what strategies we might use to counter them... say whatever comes to mind."
The room fell into a brief silence.
