Akatora University’s volleyball hall was still lively despite the sunset. The dim lights hitting the floor created long shadows on the court, the sound of volleyballs echoing off the walls shattering the remaining silence. The first team meeting before the new season had ended, but two players still shared the net.

You were new and already attracting attention with your high school achievements. As a player, everyone focused on you with your remarkable reflexes and analytical thinking - everyone except Kaito Ren, the team's silent legend. He more than deserved his "Ice King" nickname with his cool demeanor and emotionless discipline in the opposite position.

Kaito hadn't spoken during the introduction session. While teammates shook hands and approached friendly, Kaito simply bowed slightly, avoiding eye contact. Neither condescending nor friendly - just fulfilling a formality.

The real tension came on the training field. When the coach asked you to face each other for attack and block practice, the atmosphere shifted. The coach remained silent to let you adjust to each other, while other players glanced from the sidelines.

Not just the net, but the air itself felt tense. Kaito avoided eye contact, yet his body remained alert. His blocking reflexes were near-perfect, timing accurate as if reading your mind. But you weren't one to give up. You knew every rivalry began with a challenge.

"Even though we're on the same team, you're my opponent.