Chapters 170-
Chapter 170
The chapter opens with a flashback of Kaname in the park (from chapter 30), making the declaration: “I will surpass myself [and] defeat the General Kaname Kei!”
In the present, the General remarks to himself that that was his desire as well, and he truly felt relieved when it was finally fulfilled. He continues, “But since you won’t wake up, now I have to do such a stupid and pointless thing:”
“This time, I will surpass you.”
Kiyomine winds up and pitches a fastball which Makita fouls. The General calls for a splitter next. Meanwhile, in the dugout, Coach Sako remarks that although the top of the fourth inning represents a crucial moment, it is also the last opportunity suitable to try catching the ’not-sure-it-can-be-caught’ splitter. Even though it constitutes a risky move, he believes the General will attempt it anyway, and he concurs with the decision as they need to be aggressive in their offense. He knows Kiyomine will throw the splitter without hesitation or doubt that the General might not catch it.
As Kiyomine winds up, he internally thanks the General for allowing him to fight at full strength by calling for the splitter. However, as the ball approaches the plate, the General realizes it isn’t breaking properly. Makita manages to make contact, but the ball drops in the infield. Toudou catches it but delivers an errant throw to Chihaya waiting at second base. Despite the throw sailing high and off-target, Chihaya stretches to catch it, tagging the runner out. He pivots quickly to throw the ball to Yamada on first base, who secures it and tags out Makita. Makita fumes at Chihaya for the outcome, but Chihaya insists that Toudou deserves credit for his “fine play” in the sequence.
With a serious expression, Chihaya turns to observe Kaname who is now standing at the home plate.
The General is relieved that they were saved by the double play. However, he notes that Kiyomine’s splitter’s break has deteriorated and they were fortunate that Makita’s hit remained shallow because of it.
Kiyomine, though, appears shocked. Coach Sako remarks that this outcome was unexpected. Although Kiyomine’s complete trust in Kaname remains genuine, for any pitcher after witnessing the earlier passed ball, the possibility exists that he unconsciously strains his body when pitching.
Coach Sako continues that he actually harbors more concern about Kaname. For the noble Kaname who secretly worked desperately to close the gap between them, nothing could prove more frustrating (humiliating/bitter – that kind of vibe) than having caused Kiyomine to hold back.
Kiyomine, on the mound, seems puzzled as he senses that the pitch carried the usual feeling on his fingers. He resolves to try again.
Back at the dugout, Chihaya approaches the General to check that he has enough fluids. The General thanks him politely, and promptly starts drinking while Tsucchi-senpai gushes over his cool pose and takes photos.
However, Chihaya watches the General with a somber look. He narrates: “The General Kaname Kei is a liar. He never talks about himself. And he does not get himself involved with others. According to Taki, back in the senior league days, he would give stern and harsh lectures. I can’t picture that when he now leads the team with such gentleness.”
“But it’s not an easy thing to change one’s natural temperament. You can only hold it down. Your dissatisfaction towards others. Your dissatisfaction towards yourself. I understand it.”
“Because I’m also a liar.”
“Although I cannot speak it outright, as someone cut from the same cloth, I hope to demonstrate it through my play.”
Chihaya walks toward the home plate as he continues: “What lies ahead when one has stopped lying to himself.”