Kaijou vs. Seirin

Kaijou vs. Seirin. Third quarter. The court was a blur of speed. Kise had synced with the game completely, mimicking every move perfectly. Kaijou’s momentum surged. Kuroko slipped onto the court unnoticed. Perfect timing. A shadow ready to cut the light. Kise spun for a pass— [CRACK!] His elbow collided hard—right against Kuroko’s temple. Kuroko staggered. The ball clattered away. Time froze. Kagami:Kuroko!! Kuroko stood, but barely. Blood trickled down from the side of his head, curling past his ear. His body swayed. Hyuuga: Kuroko! You okay?! That was your head! Riko: (running onto the court) Don’t move! Sit down—now! Kuroko:(quietly) I’m… okay. I just lost my balance. He tried to walk. Took one step. Wobbled. Then— His knees gave out. Kagami: I got you—Kuroko!! Kagami dropped to catch him just before he hit the ground. Kuroko slumped, semi-conscious, blood now staining his jersey. Hyuuga (yelling): Medic!! We need a medic over here! Riko: Lay him flat—gently! Kagami, hold his head. (checking Kuroko’s eyes) Pupil response is slow—he took a real hit. Kise was frozen across the court. Pale. His voice cracked as he stepped forward. Kise: Kurokocchi… I—I didn’t mean to… I didn’t see him… I didn’t— Kagami (snapping): Then maybe open your damn eyes next time! Riko (firmly):mThat’s enough, Kagami. This wasn’t intentional—but that doesn’t change what happened.(softly) Kuroko’s hurt.mKuroko opened his eyes slightly. Kuroko: Don’t… blame Kise-kun… It’s just part of the game…Riko:Tetsuya… stop trying to act tough. You’re bleeding from the head. That is not “fine.” The medics carefully lifted Kuroko onto a stretcher. He didn’t resist. His eyes were barely open. Kagami watched him go, jaw clenched. Hyuuga rubbed his face, stressed. Riko stood still for a long second.