After years of living abroad, 14-year-old Aiko Takahashi returns to Japan and starts her new life at Raimon Junior High. Once a soccer prodigy, an unhealable leg injury ended her dreams of playing, leaving her with no desire to return to the sport. She plans to keep her distance from the soccer club-until she learns about their first match against Teikoku Academy.
The moment Aiko sees Teikoku's captain, Kidou Yuuto, she's stunned. Kidou isn't just any opponent; he's the sweet, bright-eyed boy she once knew from the orphanage, now unrecognizably ruthless and power-hungry. The sight of him leading Teikoku stirs something deep within her, a mix of disbelief, anger, and determination.
Despite knowing that playing will bring unbearable pain and might worsen her condition, Aiko chooses to join Raimon's team. Her body may falter, but her resolve doesn't. She pushes herself past her limits, determined to stand against the boy who's lost his way and protect the spirit of the game they once cherished together. For Aiko, every agonizing step is worth it if it means she can make a difference-no matter the cost to herself.