With the resumption of practice, the focus shifted towards the defensive strategies. The team, already well-versed in their receiving skills, adapted to the new formations with remarkable ease. Their natural chemistry and understanding of each other's movements allowed them to grasp the intricacies of the defensive plays in no time. By the end of the rigorous session, half of the team had already honed their execution to near perfection.

Impressed by their progress, (y/n) provided additional pointers to further refine their techniques. She emphasized the importance of synchronized movements and quick transitions, ensuring that every player understood their roles and responsibilities within each formation. As they absorbed her guidance, (y/n) announced her plans for the next day's training.

"As you all know, tomorrow we'll have Spitfire with us only until noon. We need to make the most of the time we have. If there's any specific formation you'd like more assistance with, let her know, and we'll do our best to squeeze it into the training schedule," Nekomata addressed the team, his voice filled with encouragement.

The players responded in unison, their determination evident in their resolute affirmation. "Hai," they replied, a collective commitment resonating through the gym.

Excitement filled the air as they contemplated the opportunity to further enhance their skills under the guidance of (y/n). The prospect of refining their back attacks ignited a spark of motivation within each player. They understood the significance of tomorrow's training and were eager to make every moment count.

They were determined to showcase their growth and make (y/n) proud. The gymnasium echoed with their footsteps, a tangible energy lingering in the air, signaling the unwavering resolve that unified them as a team.

Meanwhile, (y/n) couldn't help but feel a swell of pride witnessing their dedication and progress. She was genuinely impressed by their commitment and ability to adapt to new strategies with such efficiency. Looking forward to the following day, she mentally prepared herself to provide focused guidance on back attacks, knowing that their receptiveness would propel them to new heights.

As the team began their post-practice cleanup, (y/n) emerged from the changing room, her gaze falling upon Inuoka, who was still bustling with energy. With a warm smile, she called out to him, her voice filled with anticipation.

"Inuoka! You did promise to walk me back to my hotel today, didn't you?" she reminded him, a playful twinkle in her eyes.

The first-year nodded enthusiastically, his excitement evident in every fiber of his being. "Absolutely! And hey, how about we take a longer route and go through the park? It's a beautiful day, and I'm sure you'll love it!"

Accepting his suggestion with a nod of agreement, (y/n) happily allowed the exuberant teen to take the lead. Inuoka, determined to make the walk enjoyable and memorable, embarked on a mission to captivate her with his knowledge and anecdotes about the surrounding area.

As they strolled through the bustling streets, Inuoka pointed out notable landmarks, sharing intriguing facts and stories about each one. With animated gestures and a genuine enthusiasm, he effortlessly drew (y/n) into his world, ensuring that every step of their journey was filled with amusement and discovery.

Inuoka's contagious energy and genuine passion for their surroundings quickly became evident. He was like an enthusiastic tour guide, weaving a tapestry of vivid descriptions and engaging narratives that brought the city to life before (y/n)'s eyes. From the historic monuments to the hidden gems tucked away in narrow alleyways, Inuoka's keen eye and infectious curiosity transformed an ordinary walk into an extraordinary adventure.

With each passing minute, (y/n) found herself captivated by Inuoka's youthful spirit and genuine desire to make her experience truly memorable. His ability to effortlessly entertain and engage her in conversation left an indelible impression. They laughed, shared stories, and even indulged in playful banter, forging a connection that surpassed the boundaries of seniority and age.

As they approached the entrance of the park, (y/n) couldn't help but feel a sense of tranquility wash over her. The park's lush greenery, dotted with colorful blossoms, provided a serene backdrop for their leisurely stroll. Each step seemed to bring them closer, not only to the heart of nature but also to the depths of their blossoming friendship.

Lost in the beauty of their surroundings, (y/n) suddenly heard a faint whimpering sound, piercing through the tranquil atmosphere. Her gaze locked with Inuoka's, and together they embarked on a mission to uncover the source of the distressed cries. Their eyes scanned the area until they spotted a small cardboard box nestled within a bush, its contents shivering with fear and abandonment—a helpless puppy.

"Oh, you poor thing!" (y/n) exclaimed softly, her heart instantly melting as she approached the box with utmost care. She carefully lifted the trembling puppy, cradling it gently against her chest. Its tiny frame fit snugly in her embrace, seeking comfort and warmth.

Inuoka, his eyes filled with both concern and anger, voiced his disbelief at the heartlessness of abandoning such an innocent creature. He knelt beside (y/n), extending a comforting hand to stroke the puppy's quivering form.

"He seems so spooked and cold," Inuoka observed, his voice laced with empathy. "Why don't we grab some food and supplies from the store nearby and take him back to the hotel? We can ensure he gets the care and love he deserves."

Grateful for his quick thinking, (y/n) nodded in agreement, her determination to provide solace to the abandoned pup unwavering. Rising to her feet, still cradling the puppy in her arms, she began to remove her jacket, intending to use it as a makeshift blanket. However, before she could carry out her plan, Inuoka intervened, offering his own jacket instead.

With a soft blush gracing her cheeks, (y/n) accepted Inuoka's thoughtful gesture, recognizing the warmth and comfort it symbolized. Carefully wrapping the trembling puppy in the jacket, she marveled at its unexpected softness, watching as the little creature nestled closer, seeking solace from both the physical and emotional cold.

Their hearts now intertwined with the welfare of the abandoned pup, (y/n) and Inuoka set off toward the nearby store, their steps filled with purpose and determination. As they traversed the aisles, they carefully selected nutritious puppy food, a cozy bed, and various supplies to ensure the little one's comfort and well-being.

Excitement coursed through their veins as (y/n) and Inuoka hastily made their way back to the hotel, clutching the supplies tightly. Their anticipation grew with each step, driven by the shared desire to provide comfort and care for the abandoned puppy they had discovered.

Upon their arrival, (y/n)'s grandfather's friend, a kind-hearted soul with a gentle demeanor, raised an inquisitive eyebrow at the sight of the canine companion in their arms. However, any skepticism quickly melted away as Inuoka passionately explained the circumstances of their encounter. The older man's expression softened, revealing a blend of empathy and understanding.

"Looks like the little guy could use a bath," he remarked, his voice filled with a tinge of sadness. "I'll go ahead and get one running while you two make sure he gets some food."

Gratitude welled up within (y/n) and Inuoka as they exchanged glances, appreciating the older man's generosity and willingness to assist in their impromptu rescue mission. Their words of thanks spilled forth, heartfelt and genuine.

As the older man disappeared to prepare the bath, Inuoka carefully cradled the puppy, his touch both tender and protective. Meanwhile, (y/n) scoured the room in search of a suitable food bowl, her determination unwavering. Soon enough, she discovered one and proceeded to fill it with the nutritious puppy food they had obtained.

Inuoka's voice echoed through the lobby, reminding (y/n) of the importance of providing water for their newfound furry friend. Nodding in agreement, she swiftly located another bowl and filled it with cool, refreshing water. With both bowls in hand, she joined Inuoka, setting them down beside the hungry pup.

A moment of shared appreciation passed between (y/n) and Inuoka, their gazes locked in a silent acknowledgment of their joint efforts. A warm smile graced (y/n)'s lips as she expressed her gratitude to the first-year, her voice filled with genuine appreciation.

"Thank you, Inuoka, for helping me with this little guy," she said, her eyes shining with heartfelt sincerity.

Inuoka's cheeks flushed with a mix of embarrassment and pride, his features illuminated by (y/n)'s radiant smile. A bashful chuckle escaped him, his attempt to hide his reddened face serving only to deepen his adorability. Determined to redirect the attention, he turned his focus to the puppy before them, allowing his care and affection to shine through.

Their conversation was momentarily interrupted by a delightful bark, drawing their attention to the empty food bowl before the puppy. His tail wagged joyfully as he gazed expectantly between (y/n) and Inuoka, conveying his gratitude through unspoken gestures. It was a heartwarming sight that further solidified their shared commitment to the well-being of this innocent creature.

Their endeavor received a timely interruption as (y/n)'s grandfather's friend reemerged, announcing the completion of the bath. Inuoka couldn't help but voice his curiosity about the puppy's breed, seeking to deepen his understanding of their newfound companion.

"Do you happen to know what breed he might be, sir?" Inuoka inquired, his eyes filled with genuine interest.

With a wise smile and a glimmer of knowledge in his eyes, the older man considered the puppy's distinctive features before offering his insights.

"Well, with that striking red and black coat and his unique characteristics, my guess would be that he's a shikoku. They're a marvelous breed known for their loyalty and spirited nature," he explained, his voice carrying a touch of admiration.

Inuoka's expression brightened at the revelation, his admiration for their furry friend growing even stronger. As they prepared to give the puppy his much-needed bath, the trio felt an invisible bond forming—one that transcended age, experience, and even the barriers of language. 

A gentle smile curved (y/n)'s lips as she gazed at the adorable puppy immersed in the sud-filled water, his coat gradually transforming into a lustrous sheen. The warmth of the moment radiated through her, filling her heart with a sense of contentment and purpose.

After they had finished bathing the puppy, both (y/n) and Inuoka found themselves soaked from head to toe. The hotel owner, touched by their compassion and determination to care for the abandoned pup, generously allowed Inuoka to call his parents and offered him a room for the night.

Standing outside her own room, (y/n) expressed her gratitude to Inuoka once again, the puppy barking in agreement as if to echo the sentiment. As they conversed, the topic of the puppy's future became the focal point.

"So, are you planning to keep him, (y/n)-san? I checked with my parents just in case, but it seems like I won't be able to," Inuoka explained, his voice filled with curiosity and concern.

A gleam of determination sparkled in (y/n)'s eyes as she nodded, her mind made up. "Yes, I'm going to sneak him onto the train and bring him home. My brother won't mind, and besides, he's small enough to fit in my sports bag. Now, I just need to give him a name. Any ideas?" she asked, turning to Inuoka for his input.

"Eh? Me?" Inuoka replied, momentarily taken aback by the unexpected responsibility. However, a flicker of excitement soon replaced his initial surprise.

"Yeah! You helped me find him, so you should help me name him. You're like his co-owner in a way," (y/n) explained, her radiant smile conveying a sense of shared ownership and partnership.

Inuoka's mind whirred with possibilities, his imagination running wild as he contemplated the perfect name for their furry companion. After a moment of contemplation, an idea formed, and he offered it to (y/n) with a hopeful expression.

"What about Kenta?" he suggested, his voice carrying a touch of pride in his contribution.

"It's perfect!" (y/n) exclaimed, her eyes lighting up with delight. "Thanks again, Inuoka. I'll see you tomorrow. I think I'm going to wake up early to get this little guy a collar and some supplies," she shared, her determination evident in her words.

"Okay, have a good sleep," Inuoka responded, his gaze lingering as he watched her depart. However, as she walked away, a profound realization dawned on him, a single thought taking root in his mind.

'She called me his co-owner, as if we both are Kenta's owners... like his parents!' Inuoka's heart swelled with newfound warmth and a sense of responsibility. The realization filled him with a deep appreciation for the bond they had forged—a connection that extended beyond their shared love for the puppy, but also hinted at the potential for something even more profound between them.

...

Inside the gym, Nekomata and the rest of the team eagerly awaited (y/n)'s arrival. Inuoka's uncharacteristic cheerfulness had piqued their curiosity, prompting a few of them to question him about the source of his joy. Their inquiries were met with mischievous grins and teasing remarks, keeping them in suspense.

As the door swung open to reveal (y/n) standing there with little Kenta by her side, a chorus of "awws" and delighted gasps filled the room. The connection between Inuoka's buoyant mood and the adorable puppy became instantly apparent, especially when Kenta excitedly bounded toward the first year, showering him with playful kisses.

Nekomata, the ever-observant coach, couldn't contain his curiosity and directed his question to (y/n). "Spitfire, why do you have a dog?" he inquired, a hint of amusement in his voice.

With a light chuckle, (y/n) proceeded to explain the heartwarming events that had unfolded during her walk back with Inuoka the previous evening. The team listened intently, their expressions transforming from curiosity to fascination as the tale unraveled. By the end of her account, the gym echoed with coos and adoring remarks, as the entire team couldn't resist being enamored by the charming little dog.

(Y/n) couldn't help but find amusement in the scene before her. 'For a team known for their cat-like agility and grace, they sure have a soft spot for dogs,' she mused with a playful grin.

Reluctantly, at the behest of Naoi and Nekomata, (y/n) gently set Kenta aside to ensure that practice could commence. The team focused on refining their back attacks, striving for seamless coordination and precision. Under Nekomata's guidance, they also delved into various other attack formations, their movements growing more synchronized with each repetition.

By the time lunch arrived, the team's hard work and dedication had begun to bear fruit. Their back attacks had improved significantly, displaying a newfound fluidity and strategic finesse. Excitement buzzed among the players as they exchanged satisfied smiles, a shared sense of accomplishment filling the air.

As they gathered for a well-deserved break, the chatter shifted momentarily from volleyball to showering affection upon Kenta, who had been patiently waiting for their attention. It was a heartwarming interlude, reminding everyone of the bond they had formed not only as teammates but also as a family that extended to their newest member—a lovable, four-legged addition named Kenta.

With the team huddled around, Nekomata took a moment to express his gratitude. A wide grin stretched across his face as he addressed (y/n), appreciating her presence and the valuable contribution she had made during their time together. "Alright, everyone, gather around. Please join me in thanking Spitfire for coming here for the weekend to work with us," he announced warmly. "You've been a great help, and please send my regards to your grandfather."

A chorus of grateful voices filled the air as the team expressed their heartfelt appreciation. "You got it! I had a lot of fun," (y/n) responded, her eyes shimmering with enthusiasm. "I hope we can finally have the Battle of The Garbage Dump on the national stage. Good luck at Interhigh! You'll all do great! Just keep working on your formations, and you'll become a dangerous force to be reckoned with." Her words of motivation resonated deeply with the team, fueling their determination to excel.

"Thank you very much, (y/n)-san!" the team exclaimed in unison, bowing respectfully to their esteemed guest.

Amidst the gratitude, a mischievous howl emerged from little Kenta, causing laughter to ripple through the group. (Y/n) gathered her belongings, ensuring that she had everything she needed for her journey. With Kenta safely tucked in her bag, his curious eyes peeking out, she prepared to bid her farewells.

Just as she was about to head towards the station, a group of familiar figures approached her. Kuroo, wearing his signature grin, chimed in playfully, "Well, Kitten, we all want to send you off, so we're walking you to the station."

The walk to the station proved to be an entertaining and heartfelt affair. Each member of the team vied for (y/n)'s attention, eager to share their personal experiences and moments spent with her. Even the typically reserved Kenma chimed in with a few words, a testament to the bond they had formed over the weekend.

As they reached the station, (y/n) prepared to board her train, accompanied by her loyal companion Kenta. Placing the pup gently in her bag, she double-checked to ensure she had everything she needed. Turning to face the boys, her gaze filled with warmth and gratitude, she bid them one final goodbye, their reluctance to let her go evident in their expressions.

"We'll hopefully see you soon, Kitten," Kuroo spoke up, extending a piece of paper with his number written on it. "Also, since Yaku and Kenma can text you, I'm giving you my number. It's not fair that they get all your attention."

Inuoka, his face beaming, chimed in eagerly, "Here's mine as well, (y/n)-san. Keep me updated on Kenta too!" He scratched the pup's head one last time, sealing their newfound bond.

Yamamoto, his usual cheerful self, added with determination, "Thank you for all your help, (y/n)-san. Tell Tanaka we won't lose the next time we meet either!" He bashfully handed her his number, a touch of excitement dancing in his eyes.

Kenma, ever quiet but thoughtful, sent her a farewell text, his eyes meeting hers briefly as she acknowledged his message with a gentle smile.

As Yaku fretted over (y/n) like a worried mother, he emphasized the importance of her safety. "Be safe and let us know when you get back home. Text us the minute you're off that train, so we know you're okay," he insisted, concern lacing his voice.

Giggling warmly, (y/n) pulled each member of the team into a heartfelt hug, cherishing the bond they had formed over the weekend. With a final wave, she boarded the train, her heart brimming with gratitude and nostalgia.

As the train gradually pulled away from the station, (y/n) caught a last glimpse of the figures in red, their faces adorned with bashful blushes. She couldn't help but reflect on the whirlwind of events that had unfolded during her eventful trip. 'This was a very eventful trip, but well worth it,' she thought to herself, a sense of fulfillment washing over her.