AN: Please note that while this chapter takes place during the Winter Cup, there might be a few changes to the match between Shutoku and Rakuzan due to Yuna's participation. I'm not very good at describing the scenes of basketball matches but I'll try my best to make it seem realistic and imaginable! Also, this story will be alternating between the past and present to give insights into what had happened during the Teiko era. And in case anyone wonders, Yuna's quick agility is also a combined result of her judo training which, of course, she excels in as well.

To beth: Thank you for reviewing! I'm really glad you think that Yuna is terrifying. She's the twin sister of Akashi Seijuuro and the vice-captain of the Generation of Miracles/Teiko Basketball team after all. I know! My heart reaches out to poor Kise every single time he cries and it's truly heart-breaking. I just want to cling to him so much!

To Guest: Thank you so much for your review! Aomine will make another entrance in this chapter and I hope he's not too out of character! He's quite a hard one to write!

On with the show!

Warnings: OOC-ness, unbeta-ed, grammar mistakes?

Disclaimer: knb is not mine!

…Once she'd left the hall where the others were, she headed for the one spot that Ryouta was bound to be at. Yuna sprinted upwards; concerned and worried about the blonde whom she was afraid for. Despite what they seemed to be, they weren't lovers. That said, she still cared for the model a great deal. It was ironic – really – because the one man that she'd ever fallen for in her entire life was completely oblivious to her feelings.

Her feet had brought her to the school rooftop, slamming the door open with a loud bang. There he was; the very sight of him made her heart clench painfully – Haizaki will pay. Shoulders hunched forward, frame shaking (she had a hunch that he was crying silently), golden blonde hair in a mess…

"…Ryouta…?" She spoke softly for she didn't want to frighten the upset man. "Ryouta… it's me…" Yuna murmured softly as she padded over to the boy's side. She bent down and gently pried the hands that were covering his beautiful face. Her breath hitched when Kise lifted his face to meet her gaze.

Anguished topaz jewels peered upwards at her sorrowfully. Yuna swore she'd almost stopped breathing by then. She'd never seen such an expression on his countenance before – it seemed alien on him. Ever since they met, the crimson-haired girl had already pinpointed how the smiles on his face weren't genuine; masking his insecurities from the world. She had confronted the young model, tearing down his defences one by one.

Ryouta was one of her closest friend – despite being the newest addition to the team. They had each other's backs and were always there for each other. And this… this was no different.

"…Yuna…" He sobbed out, unable to hold it in anymore, his large hands reaching out for her.

Yuna returned the embrace, offering comfort to Kise. She blinked away the tears that were starting to form in her eyes. As empathetic as she was, she could easily identify the emotions that she and those around her were feeling. The younger Akashi did what she did best: taking care of those around her and showering them with her love and affection. To those outside their inner circle, the red-head appeared to be distant – untouchable – with the Generation of Miracles hovering over her, intimidating everyone else.

"Let it all out, Ryouta. I'm here for you just as I always have been. No one will hurt you when I'm here." She whispered soothingly to the blonde as he held her tightly in his arms, his grip tightening but not to the extent of causing her pain. A pale hand reached up to cradle the silky golden hair that shimmered under the sunlight and brushed it gently.

An hour or so later, Yuna was sitting on the floor, her back perched against the wall with Ryouta laying his head on her lap. Though his sobs had died down quite some time ago, Ryouta refused to budge away from the young girl, relishing the full attention that she'd given to him. His former nemesis's words rang cruelly in his thoughts, targeting his own flaws and insecurities. Contrary to what others might think, Ryouta wasn't upset about the fact that Haizaki was in a relationship with the girl Kise was rumoured to be with – but rather how Haizaki had claimed that he was useless, that he wasn't fit to be on the team.

Deep down inside, while he loathed to admit it, Kise hated losing. Despite the thrill of being able to find a sport where there were others much better than he himself, the blonde hated to lose. And perhaps… that's why Kise strived to work harder than anyone else at basketball. And under the tutelage of both Kuroko and Yuna, he was still bested by the silverette – at his favourite sport no less. The thought pulled at his heartstrings. What if…

"Ne, Yunacchi…" He whispered softly, breaking the comfortable and soothing silence between them, drawing the girl's attention to him once more. "…Were… Are… you…"

"Disappointed that you've lost to Haizaki?" She inquired gently.

"…yeah." He nodded, feeling downcast.

She didn't respond to his question and Kise pursed his lips nervously. He could not stand the thought of disappointing her, not when he knew how much faith Yuna had in him. His insides gnawed at him, stomach churning uncomfortably at the silence that ensued between them. Ryouta decided to take the risk. He needed to see her, to be assured that she wouldn't leave him.

And when he does peek at her from beneath his beautiful lashes, Kise Ryouta felt a tinge of warmth in his cheeks at the way Yuna was staring at him. He knew that her ruby eyes had pierced through his outer facade – the one wherein he'd carefully sculpted and moulded to his liking. Admittedly, Kise was drawn to her strength and compassion and loyalty. Although… he always worried over her well-being, knowing that she was unable to detach herself from her emotions at times and how she'd recklessly throw herself in danger's way if it meant being able to protect those around her. The younger red-head needed someone to be there for her, to serve as an emotional support in the form of an unmovable stone tablet that would remain constant in her cursed life no matter the horrors the young girl might face.

Having been by her side these few weeks – courtesy of Yuna being his mentor as well as friend, Ryouta was able to catch a glimpse of her true self beneath the outer exterior that Yuna too had sculpted from scratch. The young blonde noted the way her eyes would turn downcast as they focused on the back of her older brother, contemplating the manner in which just like many others, Akashi Seijuuro was beginning to shut her off, holding the key to the iron clad door that shaped their relationship. His topaz orbs could see the gears churning and turning furiously in her head, working furiously to concoct a scheme that would be effective enough in dragging Akashi back into the glaring light where he truly belonged.

And this, he noted, was the same for Aomine as well. He resisted the urge to clench his fists tightly at the tanned boy. Despite what others may think of him, Ryouta was not an idiot. He was able to discern the primary source of strife that hovered over Yuna's relationship with Daiki. His attitude was turning from bad to worse – his increasing absenteeism rate was the cause of concern amongst his team-mates for Daiki was the one with the most passion for basketball. His undying love for the sport could make even the lips which belonged to an apathetic person quirk up at the side; bemused at the way he wouldn't just stop chattering about the sport.

Aomine used to be rattling on and off about basket this and basket that; causing Midorima to roll his pretty green orbs at his friend (no matter how much he says otherwise, Midorima does consider them as his friends).

"Ryouta–"

A deep sigh.

He blinked owlishly at his dear friend.

"You are…" Kise gulped as he watched her expression soften into a mix of considerable amount of fondness and kindness with a hint of exasperation even. He was unable to tear his eyes away from the beauty was hovering over him.

Sort of like a guardian angel.

"Ryouta, you're twice the man he'll ever be – even a thousand times better. Ryouta, look at me. Pay attention." She asserts firmly, her sincere words causing his heartbeat to quicken. "Do not ever doubt yourself. Do you hear me, Kise? You are kind, caring, gentle, affectionate, intelligent… A womanizer and charmer at times… But nevertheless… You're… Please, don't ever change, my dear friend. You're fine just the way you are. I would not give you up for anything… even if…" It is at the expense of my own happiness and life.

Kise's breath hitched. They were so close to each other like this… Such soft pink lips… Are they as soft as they seem to be?

There was a cooling breeze around them, causing Yuna's locks to flutter under the warm light of the sun. Just by sitting up, Kise could cover the distance between them. He could cover her soft lips with his own – devour the richness of her lips and inhale the soft jasmine scent that he has always associated her with. His topaz eyes slid down from her lips to the soft delicate skin that somehow was untainted from the bruises that Basketball called his friend.

The blonde almost choked.

It was dangerous. His senses were about to go into overdrive. Oh, such an incredible power that she has over him! A warm hand cupped his cheeks tenderly and he marveled at her soft touch.

"…Ryouta?" There was a slight frown on her forehead. It was at that time when he realised that he was staring at her unabashedly, drinking in the beautiful sight that she made and implanting the image of her so firmly in his memories. "Are you alright? You seem a bit feverish. You're not feeling dehydrated, are you…? Say something. Your silence is starting to get a little worrisome."

"…Yunacchi… I…"

"Ryouta, what's wrong? Talk to me. You're starting to scare me." There was a hint of rising nervousness in her soft voice as he remained motionless on her lap, staring at her.

All I wanted to say was that I love you. And I'm sorry for all the pains and sorrow that you've went through because of Aomine. Let me be the one to take care of you. I'll do anything for you… if it means that you'll grant me that privilege. It's starting to kill me… tearing me bit by bit as I watch you laugh in his arms, the way your eyes twinkle as he whispers in your ear, the soft soothing sound of your laughter that somehow resembles the lyrical melody of bells ringing in churches as you watch him grin. Let me be the one to protect you from the raging heat of the sun to the furious destructive winds of the storm. Let me hold you close like this. Let me be the one to bring joy and laughter in your world. Just... Let me be with you.

A knock resounded from the door leading to the stairways, sharply piercing the small little enclave that had formed around both Kise and Yuna during this short interval. Ryouta blinked rapidly at the interruption, no longer lost.

"Akashi-san… Are you there with Kise-kun?" A soft voice inquired from beyond the door.

"Ah, is time up already, Tetsuya? Thank you for coming to get us. Ryouta is fine. Why don't you head to the entrance with the others first? We're still getting fast food for dinner, are we? We'll catch up."

"…Are you sure? Alright then." He murmured softly, the soft sound of footsteps receding – an indication that Kuroko had done as she'd told him to do so.

"Ah, look. The sun is about to set soon. Let's go then. I can't get up unless you move your heavy weight first." Yuna teased him softly.

"Ah, Yunacchi! So mean!" Kise pouted but nevertheless lifted his head from her lap. Standing up, he stretched, extending his long limbs just as how a feline would. Reaching his hand out to the girl sitting on the floor, he pulled her up, laughing as the heavy emotional weight on his heart was lifted by the strong presence of this woman, freeing him from the burdens that came along with it.

And in turn, Kise Ryouta would do the same.

Even if it meant that he'll get hurt in the process as well.

A love – so young, so tender.

Yet, fully capable of causing so much death and destruction around them.

Would they ever be free from their own devils that haunt them?

Time never waits…

It delivers us all equally to the same end.

He resisted the urge to groan out in pain as Kasamatsu massaged his foot gently. Kise was fully conscious of the sharp pain throbbing in his foot. Haizaki was merciless… But Kise was glad that Kaijou won. They've fought brilliantly against their opponents, never giving up even when the tides were turned against them. Despite the pain in his limb, Kise felt relieved; he had never felt this way for a long time.

The stone weight pressing against his chest was finally lifted. Kise felt free – he was no longer tormented by his power. Did Kuroko and Kagami experience this as well? He recalled their previous matches including the friendly ones: the chemistry between Seirin was strong; they moved fluidly. They weren't as strong as the Generation of Miracles themselves but their strength shone through in their own way. Well, he couldn't say it wasn't expected, considering that it was a team wherein the pale bluenette has had personally handpicked it.

"Kise," Kasamatsu called him out whilst gently rubbing his foot.

"Hmm?"

"…You…"

The heavy thumping sound of footsteps caught their attention and soon enough, the door to their locker room slammed open with a loud bang. Kise only had a second to blink before he was caught in a death grip, one that threatened to cut off his air supply. The soft feminine scent of jasmine reached his nose and he laughed softly, bringing a calloused hand and putting it on the crown of scarlet locks that were nuzzling his chest.

"Yunacchi, are you sure you want to be doing this? I mean… You're in a room full of sweaty men who've just ended a game of basketball. Not to mention that some of them are even in the midst of taking off their clothes."

"Ah…" A soft gasp escaped her lips as Yuna removed herself from Kise's chest, her scarlet eyes widening slightly as she realised that Ryouta was right. There was a slight pinkish hue forming on her pale cheeks as she took in the sight of Moriyama who remained motionless while his hand was lifting his shirt, revealing a patch of skin.

"Oi, oi…" Kise hooked his thumb and index finger under her chin delicately and turned her back to him. "Why are you staring at other men when you're sitting right on my lap?"

The blonde model grinned as he indulged in the proximity between the two of them. There was no stopping him now. Back then, Kise had made a crucial mistake in letting her go for he'd thought Aomine was the right one for her. But things had changed between them. They were no longer in a relationship… and this meant that Kise would grab his final chance at being happy.

Yuna blinked rapidly and decided to roll her eyes to hide the warm flush that was creeping up her neck. She reached up and tugged at his earlobe roughly, causing Kise to yelp loudly in pain.

"Yunacchi! What'd you do that for!?" He whined softly, letting go of Yuna to rub his injured ear.

She sighed exasperatedly at the young man, her countenance softening. "...Because you were being an idiot. Jokes aside… I've already gotten Shintarou to book an appointment for you at his father's hospital. You need to go and get your foot checked. Haizaki…"

Her smoldering gaze darkened as her eyes rested on the limb sprawled out on the bench. Kise swallowed. The blonde had heard what happened that fateful day when he was crushed by the silverette. Yuna'd all but kicked the delinquent out from the team. The atmosphere had been slightly tense back then with the second and third stringers cowering in fear under the wrath of the vice-captain of Teiko Middle School. He was especially grateful for the red-head that day but even Kise wouldn't want her to lose her sense of self again.

When she lost control… she was different. Kise noted that her aura was somewhat like Akashi's – only that Yuna was restraining it. Despite that, Ryouta didn't want her to be so down. He wanted her to be happy, to be free from any concerns in her life, to be free from the sorrow and anguish that has had been plaguing her for a very long time. He has decided that he'll be the one to break that iron link that was currently tying her down. He'll be her saving grace – just as she'd been his.

His expression softened as he gazed at the young girl who held his heart ever since middle school; unaware of how his team-mates were gaping at him. This was a side of Kise that even Kaijou has never seen before. Heated scarlet eyes glanced at Ryouta and he gulped, trapped and held motionless by the powerful intensity of her stare. His mouth opened slightly with the intent of wetting his lips.

And regrettably enough, an unfamiliar voice which held a sort of detachment to it called out. "…Akashi-san…? It's time."

And just like that, the fragile glass of the sphere which had barricaded the two of them from the rest of the world was shattered sharply. Yuna drew back and turned her attention to the door. Kise followed suit, noting a tall silverette with a stare almost as blank as Kuroko's. An uncomfortable feeling began to crept its way into his heart as he watched Yuna smile slightly at the other man.

"Ah, Chihiro-san. Thank you for coming to get me. It looks like Sei couldn't stop worrying about me despite what he says." She glanced back at Kise and pursed her lips. "…Ryouta, take care of yourself. Kasamatsu-san, this may be the first time that we've spoken to each other but please ensure that Ryouta doesn't harm himself any further. It's bad for my blood pressure."

"Yunacchi!" Kise pouted slightly at her indifferent tone, causing her to chuckle slightly.

"I'll see you soon then. Let's go, Chihiro-san."

Akashi Yuna stepped out of the locker room where the team players from Kaijou was at, with Mayuzumi following closely behind. Soon enough, they both hear a "Kise, why do you always get all the cute ones!?"

There was a moment of silence between the two Rakuzan players as they made their way back to their own locker room. Yuna, feeling an intense stare boring into her, looked at Mayuzumi inquiringly. "What's wrong, Chihiro-san?"

"…Are you sure it's wise? I know what you're thinking."

"…" Her smile slipped off her face as she grunted softly. "Does this mean you know about what happened back then? I'll not stop, Chihiro-san. Ryouta is someone who means the whole world to me. He is as important to me as Sei is. You know I protect what is mine. I watch over the safety of those around me, not wishing any harm to befall upon them – and that includes you too, Chihiro-san. So… do not doubt my abilities. I'd appreciate if you'll have some faith-"

"Oi, Akashi."

They both stop, the voice bidding Yuna to turn around. Ah. There he was… Tetsuya along with his new light, Kagami Taiga. The tallest man stared down at her and she stared back unflinchingly. Even from this distance, Yuna could sense the overwhelming strength exuding from Kagami; it was one that was almost on par with Daiki's and if given enough time…

The fighting spirit of a wild tiger going against the looming danger posed by a protective and territorial lioness.

Even passers-by stopped to stare at the two pairs for they were curious at the intensity and pressure emanating from the players. Just as how Kagami was staring down at Yuna, Mayuzumi was doing the same to Kuroko; his silver eyes narrowing at the pale bluenette. Sharp eyes noted the way Tetsuya was almost invisible to others – but to him… He must have been the one Akashi warned him of; the one whom he was trained to guard against: The Phantom sixth man of the Generation of Miracles.

"Ah, Tetsuya and Kagami Taiga." Yuna took a step closer to the man, her senses tingling sharply, warning her of the threat that the man posed. Mayuzumi shifted his stance slightly, making an indiscernible effort to move nearer to the reckless young woman, hovering protectively over her. Yuna tilted her head upwards to meet the gaze of Seirin's ace. "Is there something you need?"

"We'll be there. Seirin will be at the top. With Kuroko and my team, nothing will stop us from playing the best basketball. We'll beat you and be the best in Japan."

Kagami stared at her; the side of her lips quirking up slowly into an arrogant smirk. She's challenging him, he realised. A fire blazing furiously within the depths of her scarlet orbs.

A fire just like his.

"Good. I'm looking forward to seeing you on Court. Do not disappoint me, Taiga."

Her brain was pushing itself into Overdrive. Considering the extremely fast-paced game between Rakuzan and Shutoku, Yuna was pushing herself into keeping track with what was going on. It wasn't difficult per se – but when you're studying the way your opponents move and coming up with an effective counter-attack within the first half of the game; a feat nonetheless. Certainly enough, they've already made countless analysis of Shutoku's teamwork but it was not good enough for every single match they play, they're constantly improving.

And as such, Akashi Yuna was sitting on the player's bench, her scarlet eyes moving back and forth continuously at an incredible speed. Kazunari Takao – Point Guard and the one who had been able to see through Tetsuya's misdirection – has proven himself to be a worthy player alongside Midorima. Their coordination was executed flawlessly with minimal errors. To be frank, even Yuna has been surprised when the members of Shutoku began passing the ball to Midorima who was already in the shooting position.

Silence fell as Yuna watched her brother shoot the basketball into their own goal. Fury and irritation exuded from the Captain. She sighed and glanced at their coach who nodded even though no words were exchanged between them. Reaching up, she pulled her scarlet locks into a high ponytail and tightened it.

"I'll gouge my own eyes out and give it to you."

At that, a sharp whistle was blown and all eyes turned to the referee who pointed at Rakuzan's direction.

"Rakuzan High, Timeout!"

"What is the meaning of this, Yuna?"

"There's no need for you to do that, Sei." Garnet jewels locked onto heterochromatic ones and Hayama almost gulped. Rarely had anyone seen Yuna like this, going so far as to ask the Emperor of the Court to back down and retreat. "After studying them… There is a way to widen the gap. I know that it's possible with you but it's much faster if we do it this way. With me in, the change in pace and intensity of the game will distract Shutoku. Once distracted, they'll succumb easily to pressure and even if Shintarou does not… who's to say the rest of the team won't? We'll throw them off with both offense and speed combined into one. And when it's time, I'll swap back with you. Have faith in me."

Yuna stared coolly at her brother; to be frank, she was worried about his well-being – he needed to cool down. Because… Seijuuro wasn't one to back down from a fight. She needed him to see reason – to see logic. Her older brother was slowly being consumed by the extreme desire to win. Yuna needed to stop before anything else could happen.

A sigh escaped her brother's lips who simply nodded, consenting to her demands.

"Have faith in me, Sei."

"Rakuzan, Member Change!"

From the sidelines, his jaw almost dropped as Kagami watched the petite girl stood up from the bench and began to make her way over to her team-mates who were all fixated on her. Next to him, Kuroko leaned slightly forward, his eyes too never leaving the red-head.

"They're subbing Akashi-kun out with Akashi-san… Things might get a little difficult for Shutoku from now onwards." Kuroko murmured softly to himself.

"Shit!" Midorima cursed as his eyes never left the younger Akashi. His shoulders stiffened slightly as his mind worked furiously. No doubt Yuna had persuaded Akashi to back down from the fight.

"Shin-chan? They're… sending a girl?" Takao questioned curiously.

"No, no. She's not just anyone." Shintarou said softly as his left hand reached upwards to push the bridge of his glasses. "Yuna was the vice-captain of Teiko Middle School and she worked alongside Akashi to formulate our strategies. Her precision… speed… and intellect… Only two were able to best her in games: Aomine Daiki and Akashi Seijuuro himself."

"But that's…"

"Exactly. We'll have to be on our guard; from now onwards, it'll be a tough challenge for us. Knowing Yuna… We cannot afford to hesitate."

The whistle blew sharply, signaling the start of the third quarter. The ball was in Otsubo's hands and the player dribbled furiously, grunting at the sudden change of pace. Midorima was right. The members of Rakuzan moved fluidly and flawlessly as one, spreading out and never made any mistakes. As Otsubo began to pass the ball in Midorima's direction, Yuna pushed it away from his grasp, stealing it.

Takao's eyes widened as he watched Yuna weave around the court with an agility that matched a proud lioness. They had already made a fast break and time seemed to slow down as Yuna shifted herself into the shooting form – one that eerily resembled Midorima's – and released the ball, sending it into a high arc flawlessly into the air.

Everyone gaped as the ball made a smooth curve. Hayama grinned excitedly as Yuna scored a three. "Awesome!"

And with that, the ball was once again in Shutoku's hands. On the court, Takao gritted his teeth as sweat dripped from his forehead. Shin-chan's right. Rakuzan seems different now. They're moving too fast for us to counter. Well, in that case, we'll have to score quickly as well.

"Shin-chan!" He called out to his partner who nodded seriously, seeming to have the same idea as Takao.

Takao, currently in possession of the ball, passed it to Midorima who was in mid-air. The green-haired man grunted as he soon found himself blocked by the enormous form of Nebuya's, causing him to growl softly. Midorima moved to shift into another position, only to find himself blocked by Yuna.

"Double-team?" His eyes widened slightly.

"Sorry but I'm not letting that happen." A small smirk crept up the side of Yuna's lips as she proceeded to steal the ball from Midorima the second he hesitated. Seeing Mayuzumi in an open space, she passed to the silverette who employed his misdirection, sending the ball to Hayama who scored another two points.

"This is insane…" Riko gasped as the gap between Rakuzan and Shutoku began to widen gradually and within a span of two minutes, the score was 80 – 65 in favor of Rakuzan. Midorima's touch shot had surprised everyone, even Akashi himself. And yet… Yuna was able to come up with a strategy to counter it…?

Back on the court, Yuna was once more bypassing the other players on the court. She was not only providing support to her team for defense but also offense as well. With her presence, she changed the entire flow of the game, moulding it to her desires. Having been trained during practices, the rest of her team could keep up. However, for those that weren't used to her lightning speed…

It was nearing the end of the third quarter; both sides proving themselves to be a tough challenge. This was expected for it was the showdown between the King of the East and the Emperor of the Court. And yet, despite that, Shutoku was holding themselves well, truly living up to their motto of "unyielding tenacity". Yuna shot a quick glance in Mayuzumi's direction. Her friend seemed to be slowing down slightly although he lasted much longer than Kuroko ever would. It seemed that it was time for Mayuzumi to be swapped out with her brother. And with two members of the Generation of Miracles and three from the Uncrowned Kings… They were formidable indeed.

Soon enough, Akashi was back on the court. The audience held with bated breath as the pressure on the court was taken up to another level. Both Kise and Kasamatsu widened their eyes as they watched Akashi nod in Yuna's direction who granted her brother a faint smile. With the pair of twins playing together, it was almost impossible for them to be defeated for they were deeply synchronized with each other and this meant that they could read the other's mind accurately.

"This is bad… With both of them on the court… our chances of victory are even slimmer…" Miyaji gritted his teeth, his eyes never leaving the siblings. "We'll just have to try our best."

The game resumed once more and at that point in time, Shutoku was struggling to keep with Rakuzan's extraordinary speed; Yuna's agility and precision, Akashi's Emperor Eye, Nebuya's infallible defense, Hayama's Lightning Dribble and Mibuchi's shooting style soon proved to be too much for Midorima and his team. Once again, the gap between the two schools was once more widening with the basketball brought quickly from one side of the court to another, leaving no time for Shutoku to react.

In the blink of an eye, there was only ten seconds left to the last quarter with the current score at 83 to 70. Currently, Rakuzan was in control of the court as they matched offense with offense and defense with defense. Both teams never let up. Their desire to win compelled them to push through even the most difficult obstacle.

With Miyaji in possession of the ball, he passed it to Midorima who was once again blocked by Akashi. A soft gasp left the green-haired man as his ankles buckled, causing him to fall onto the ground motionless. This gave Akashi the opening he needed and he proceeded to push the ball out of his opponent's grasp before passing it to Yuna who was currently open. She received the ball and Yuna inhaled sharply, bending her knees and jumping into the air to release the orange sphere. The circular object passed through the air smoothly, landing into the net with a clean swish just as the buzz sounded.

Everyone gaped in awe as Yuna landed back down onto the ground softly; her scarlet orbs almost blinding because of its intensity. The young girl turned to glance at her long-time friend who still lay on the floor with his emerald eyes fixated on the hoop.

"Yu-chan?" Mibuchi blinked slightly as he watched her friend make her way over to Midorima.

From his spot on the floor, Shintarou was unable to grasp what had happened. It was way too fast. Ever since Yuna participated in the match, Midorima knew that there was no way of winning. Even Oha-Asa had predicted it.

Cancers better play it quietly today! It will be a tough fight for you guys especially if you're going up against Sagittarius! The compatibility between the two of you will be quite low today! So watch out!

Beautiful forest-green eyes blinked as a warm hand cupped his cheek, drawing him out of his stupor. Midorima glanced upwards to find Yuna bending towards him with a fond smile on her face. Her expression softened considerably once she realized she had his attention on her.

"Shintarou," she said softly. "You are strong. Even Sei acknowledges your strength. Although things turned out this way, I've a hunch that you might actually have had the potential to defeat me – to defeat us. Right now, it seems to me that what stopped you from overcoming the odds was the difference between you and me."

He opened his mouth to speak but Yuna had placed a finger on his lips to silence him.

"Do not interrupt me, Shintarou. Let me say my piece. You truly have grown… just as the others did. As to the reason why there was a change in your behavior… could it have been…" She shot a quick glance to the stands, exchanging looks with Kagami who narrowed his eyes at her. Shaking her head, Yuna turned her attention back to Midorima. "I see now. Through this match, you've finally regained what you've lost because of your experience in Teiko: team play. While that may be the case, it was something that struck you a little too late. You see now? That's what distinguishes you from me. Between the two of us, I've been playing for my team right from the beginning. Even though the rest of my team has their own individual strengths, I play for them. I play to bring them to victory.

"That said, I'm sure you won't give up basketball. Despite what you say, you love the sport too much – perhaps even as much as he does. I hope to play with you again soon, Shintarou. You have indeed proven yourself as a challenge. Come, the moment I turn my back on you, I want you to stand up proud – to stand together with the rest of your team. Do you understand me, Shintarou? Thank you for the match, Shintarou."

Given no time to respond to her words, Midorima could only blink while she stood up, brushing her basketball shorts and started to make her way back to her team-mates who were waiting for her curiously. Soon enough, the vision of her back was replaced with a pair of familiar blue eyes and a grin that simply served to infuriate Midorima.

"Shin-chan," he cooed playfully, extending his hand towards the boy on the floor. "How long are you gonna stay down there? Come on, let's go."

Midorima slapped his hand away before getting up on his own. Pushing up the bridge of his spectacles once more, Shintarou turned to glance at Yuna who appeared to be frowning as Hayama poked her pale cheeks in a bid to garner her attention. The corner of his lips which quirked up slightly disappeared with his usual frown in place as Takao nudged his side painfully.

"So, Shin-chan... What's up between… Oh my god, are you smiling!? I knew you were a tsundere after all~!

"Takao!"

"Yu-chan!" Momoi's high-pitched voice called out from the other side of the phone, causing Yuna to pull the object away from her as she winced slightly. The scarlet-haired girl sighed softly before bringing the device back to her.

"Satsuki…?"

"Dai-chan is being an idiot! He simply refuses to listen to me no matter what I say! I'm at my wits end. I don't know what to do with that idiot anymore!" The pink-haired girl grumbled softly.

Yuna raised an elegant brow even though the other girl probably wouldn't be able to see it. She was currently walking towards the cafeteria, passing by countless other students. Her heart gave a small squeeze, threatening to cut the flow of oxygen from her body. How did things start to turn out this way? All Yuna did was to focus her attention on Ryouta for one moment. Even she was stumped by how rapid Daiki was growing.

It was impossible for anyone to bloom this fast – even for the Generation of Miracles.

And yet, within the blink of an eye, Aomine had changed; even his personality had taken a turn for the worse. At this moment, Yuna couldn't recognise the cobalt-haired player anymore. He began to skip practices. He began to play on his own. And most importantly, he began to drift apart from everyone – even Tetsuya.

"Yu-chan, mou… are you listening!?" Satsuki huffed, snapping Yuna out from her thoughts. "I thought that since you're Dai-chan's girlfriend, there might be a possibility that he'll listen to you!"

She suddenly stilled, refusing to flush at the word girlfriend. Sure enough, Yuna had begun dating Daiki for a few months now much to everyone's chagrin. They – especially her beloved brother – felt that she was too good for him. However, despite their disapproval, she felt safe with Daiki. And whenever they were together, the whole world only narrowed down to the two of them, encasing Aomine and Yuna both in a sphere that protected them from the dangers of the outside world.

Yuna knew she could count on Aomine to protect her even if she didn't need him to. He was there for her no matter the rain nor storm. He'd appointed himself as her shield. It was evident how possessive and jealous her lover is. And no matter how much that exasperated her for she loved her freedom and independence, Yuna still felt wanted. And most importantly, Yuna felt loved.

It was different from the shower of affection that she often received from her brother and the rest of her friends. This bond between Daiki and herself touched her to the very core, crumbling her defenses around the former. The rest of the school considered herself and Sei to be untouchable; that they were in a separate league from the rest of them. Yet, their relationship wasn't much of a shock.

Well…

They certainly did when it came to Yuna's fan club.

But that's not the point.

Yuna was never alone. She'd spent her time together with the rest of the Generation of Miracles and even more so with her brother and Aomine. Ryouta came into the picture as well once she began to appoint Tetsuya as his mentor for she needed to keep up with his training and development.

"Ne, Yunacchi, what are you planning to do today? Do you want to go and get some popsicles?" She blinked as she felt a finger poke her cheek.

Yuna shook her head, causing her scarlet locks to flutter in the air slightly. Hanging up, she pocketed her phone before turning to the teen model. "Ryouta, I'm sorry… But I have to be somewhere else now. Satsuki's having some trouble persuading Daiki to come to practice."

"Eh? Aominecchi didn't turn up for training today as well? This is so unfair!"

"…Speaking of which, Ryouta, why are you here with me and not running twenty laps around the school along with the rest of the team?" Yuna narrowed her eyes at the man, planting her hands firmly on her hips.

The blonde grinned sheepishly before brushing a hand against his golden head. "Well… you looked so lonely and lost and I wanted to accompany you!"

"…"

The lack of response caused Ryouta to stiffen slightly. Peeking at the small girl beside him, he gulped at the threatening aura exuding from the vice-captain of the Teiko basketball team.

"…Ryouta. If you do not head back to the gym now, I'll triple your training regimen."

"Eep, so mean!" Kise let out a small huff before speeding off in the gym's direction at the speed of light.

For a second, she smiled softly at the boy's childish antics which lightened up her entire features. And yet, soon enough, a crease soon appeared between her eyebrows as her smile was replaced by a frown. Yuna glanced up at the clear blue sky and turned to walk in the other direction for there was only one place Daiki will be at this time of the day, especially with such a nice weather.

She bounded up the staircase, taking two steps at a time. To be a little frank, this sudden change in Aomine's behavior worried her greatly. Something gnawed at her from within her chest. Having been the one who solidly polished his already strong fundamentals, Yuna had also been the one to draw his full strength out.

Something stirred within her – It was guilt. She felt responsible for the falling out between Tetsuya and Daiki, knowing that their friendship was one of the strongest she'd ever seen; even more so than hers and Sei. A sense of hopelessness made itself known as Yuna watched the gap between them both widen more and more during each subsequent training and all she wanted to do was the throw a rope around the cobalt-haired man to restrain him and pull him back. But alas, as idealistic as she was, Yuna knew that would never happen as the tighter she tried to control him, the more Aomine will break free.

It left her at a loss of what to do.

Opening the door to the rooftop, Yuna peeked her head in slightly and her scarlet eyes surveyed the area for Aomine. Soon enough, she saw him lying down on his back on the floor, with one arm thrown over his face. Not one to fear him despite his overwhelming height (there were players like Atsushi in her team after all), Yuna trod softly over to her lover, her basketball shoes squeaking gently as friction was made from its contact with the floor.

Next to him, Yuna's countenance softened considerably as she took in the ostensibly peaceful sight that Aomine made; one that suggested that he had nothing to be concerned about in the world. Placing a hand on his head, she smoothed the sapphire locks that she loved oh so much.

"…Yuna?" A gruff voice called out, slightly hoarse from his sleep. Embarrassing enough, it sent warm tingles down her spine.

"Are you feeling alright?" Yuna probed gently as she met his gaze. "You didn't turn up for practice again… Everyone's starting to get worried."

"Worried?" He snorted, causing her to frown slightly. "Are you kidding me? Kise will probably start whining about how it's unfair that I don't turn up for practice. Maybe even Murasakibara would as well – but he'll just carry on eating his snacks as usual. Midorima will continue to be his prissy and egoistic self."

This earned him a flick on the forehead. "Daiki, you know that's not true. There's still Satsuki, Tetsuya and Nii-chan."

Yuna nearly flinched as Aomine let out a harsh laugh, not liking the sound of that. "Tetsu? He'd came to get me to practice few weeks ago – he never stopped trying. But then one day, he stopped. If that's not a sign, then I don't know what it was. Satsuki's being annoying as always, not leaving me alone."

Yuna stood up abruptly and turned her back against him, drawing the boy's attention on her. Her small frame starting shaking as anger consumed her. Blinking rapidly to stop the tears that were starting to pool in her eyes from falling down her porcelain cheeks, she clenched her fists tightly to avert her attention away from the growing pain in her heart.

"Oi… What's with you?"

"You idiot!" She grounded out, gritting her teeth tightly. "You just don't get it at all, do you!? Always needing someone to spell out the details for you…"

Yuna widened her eyes as a pair of hands shot out to grip her shoulders tightly before turning her around. She shivered slightly from the intensity of his searing hot gaze – no longer looking disinterested. "Dai–"

He's kissing me… thought Yuna as warm lips covered her own, the grip on her shoulders sliding down to wrap themselves around her waist.

"Don't…" Aomine started as he pulled back to bore into her. "Don't turn your back against me. You're… all that I've left. There's no one else out there to provide me a strong challenge – and those who do will eventually get crushed in the end. If that's the case, then why should I continue to go to practice? You saw what happened, didn't you? What happens when I put in a little more effort than usual…"

Yuna reached out to clench at his shirt, burrowing her face into his chest. "It scares me… You're like a completely different person. You've started to turn your back against Tetsuya – against Sei. It's so hard for me to watch you go through this internal struggle, feeling so powerless because of your own power. And it's because of me. So please… don't do this to yourself. Don't do this to Tetsuya and the others. You can hate me for all you want. But…"

"Hate you?" Aomine raised an eyebrow before letting out a harsh laugh. "There's no way I can ever hate you. If there's anything else… it's because of…"

How strong I am to the point where no one can get out unscathed after challenging me to a match.

And so, while strength can be used as a weapon,

It can also cause harm to the user as well.

Power is a double-edged sword.

It's a matter of how you wield it and for what circumstances.

But do take note –

Do not let your overwhelming strength consume your entire soul.

For there will be nothing left,

And all that remains is an empty shell.

Scarlet orbs snapped open sharply and her hands reached up to her face to wipe away the remaining tears on her face. She has had cried enough – more so than anyone else. Yuna blinked as she felt something soft on her hair and soon realized that it was a flower petal. Taking it, she was about to dust it onto the ground to where it belongs when…

"…Akashi?"

"Yuna-san?"

Yuna narrowed her eyes as she looked to face the new duo of Seirin – Kuroko Tetsuya with his new light... Kagami Taiga.

"Kagami Taiga."

The end! I hope you've enjoyed this chapter! I'll greatly appreciate it if you leave a review behind! It makes me really happy