It isn't a runaway victory, going to full five sets. But the walls hold. And hold. Until finally, finally, Kei bats a one-touch high enough for a clean set. Lev flies up. Too fast, too high, and too late for their opponents.

The point hammers down like a meteor.

There's a split-second to breathe. Search the stands, trying to pick out Kaoru. Except, instead, it's that same paparazzi who catches Kei's gaze. Still here -

Then Lev hauls him into the hollering fray of their teammates.

"Nationals!"
"Oh my GOD that last one - "
"Tsukki the hell are you a robot SHIT!"