THE PAIN - Inazuma Eleven Go Fanfic

CHAPTER 48: AWAITING FATE

Shizen arrived at the Okinawa General Hospital, the atmosphere in the lobby tinged with anxiety and haste. The team, usually exuding confidence and poise, now displayed a collective unease as they awaited Osamu's return from the reception desk. The usual hum of hospital activity seemed distant, their focus solely on the well-being of their beloved captain, Arion.

As Osamu rejoined them, his expression was a mix of reassurance and urgency. "This way," he said, his voice steady, guiding them toward the back of the lobby. The team followed in silence, their footsteps echoing softly on the polished floors.

They approached a discreet elevator at the far end, marked with a sign indicating its exclusive use for VIP patients. This elevator was a rare privilege, reserved for the hospital's most important guests, and a reminder of the special status their captain held within the Okinawa community not to mention his famous parents. The team entered, the doors closing behind them with a soft chime.

The elevator ascended smoothly, a hushed anticipation filling the small space. As they rose to the highest floor, the team exchanged silent glances, each member lost in their own thoughts and worries about Arion. The ride seemed to stretch on, the weight of the moment pressing down on them.

Finally, the elevator doors opened to a serene, quiet hallway, a stark contrast to the bustling lobby below. The floor was a testament to luxury and comfort, designed to provide the utmost care and privacy for its patients. Soft lighting bathed the corridor in a warm glow, and plush seating areas dotted the space, offering places of rest and reflection.

Osamu led the way, his steps sure and purposeful, though the concern in his eyes betrayed his calm exterior. The team followed closely behind, their gazes darting around, taking in the opulent surroundings.

They stopped outside a room at the far end of the hallway, its door slightly ajar. Osamu paused, taking a deep breath before gently knocking and pushing the door open. The room was spacious and filled with natural light, the large windows offering a panoramic view of the city below. In the center of the room, being hooked by a monitor and IV lay their captain, Arion Sherwind.

Arion's usual energetic presence was replaced by a calm stillness, his eyes closed, and his breathing even but shallow. His pallor, the result of his long battle with his illness, stood in stark contrast to the vibrant spirit they were so accustomed to. Despite his condition, there was a sense of peace in his expression, as if he was resting deeply, gathering his strength.

Usui Hana and Hinode Takashi were already at his side, their faces etched with concern but also with a quiet resolve. They looked up as the team entered, their eyes reflecting the shared anxiety and hope that hung in the room. The soft hum of the medical equipment was the only sound, a reminder of the fragility of the moment.

Osamu approached Arion's bedside, his expression softening as he looked down at his friend and captain. He turned to the two adults, his voice barely above a whisper, laden with the weight of the situation. "How is he?"

"Arion is stable for now, he was just sleeping," Hana replied, her eyes never leaving the resting figure of Arion. Her voice was calm, but there was an underlying tension that spoke volumes about her worry. "The doctors say he needs to rest and not exert himself. He's still very weak."

Takashi nodded, adding, "He collapsed due to exhaustion and dehydration. It seems he's been pushing himself too hard, even when he knew he shouldn't."

Ryuu's brow furrowed in concern. "He always does this," he murmured, more to himself than anyone else. "He always pushes beyond his limits."

At that moment, a faint stir caught their attention. The team watched with bated breath as Arion's eyelids fluttered, then slowly opened. His brown eyes, though weary, were alert as he took in the faces surrounding him. For a moment, he seemed confused, then recognition dawned, and a faint, tired smile crossed his lips.