A/N: Thank you for all your reviews, faves and follows! And yes, the qualifiers have begun!

Chapter 25

"In order to succeed, we must first believe that we can."

- Nikos Kazantzakis.

Kuroko stared up at the ceiling with tired eyes. Due to Kise and Masato almost killing each other, the entire club ended up facing Ishikawa's wrath. What's worst, the man had basically told them that they could have stopped them but really, who in their right minds would try to stop a fight with two boys who know martial arts?

It was then that Kuroko started to wonder what will happen now. Winter qualifiers are right around the corner and two of their players are at odds. Well, he knows that if he talks to Kise then maybe the blond would probably apologize. But then again, the reason for the fight was because Hayato hugged him from behind. Kuroko had noticed that when Abe had thrown his arm over his shoulder, Kise made a slight twitch, but it seems that Hayato triggered something far more dangerous.

"He was jealous." Kuroko said out loud. At that, a blush formed on his face. It was for a fact that Kise was always selfish when it came onto him, even before they had travelled back in time. But thinking about it now, Kuroko knew he couldn't fight it anymore.

"It'll have to wait until after the qualifiers."

xxxx

The days flew off quite quickly, the boys at Meiko preparing themselves for the upcoming qualifiers. Masato and Kise were still at odds, and as punishment, they had to do double the training than everyone else. It was agonizing for them, but one other thing that the others found out about the two were that they were unbelievably stubborn.

No matter how many times Hayato, Abe and Kuroko would talk to Masato and Kise and try to get them to reconcile, surprisingly both boys would reply in the same way:

"I'd rather die first."

It was odd how they were similar in this way. Hoshizumi didn't know whether or not to be amused or worried at this. Kuroko and Abe had been down this road before, but not even they could get the boys to even crack. Kuroko found this worrisome as well, as this was a side to Kise that he didn't know existed. After practice, they had met up and Kuroko asked the blond about the cause of this fight and he simply said:

"He called my mother a bitch." Kise had hissed. "I can't let that slide."

Kuroko shook his head when he heard that reasoning. It was for a fact that that was the cause, but Masato didn't outright refer to Kise's mother directly. But on the flip side, when he asked Masato the same question, the dark-haired teen had replied:

"He stepped in my brother's face. I would have killed him if Coach hadn't shown up." Masato had really looked murderous.

Kuroko could feel the grey hairs growing. But if this isn't cleared up soon, they'll be in trouble. Add to that, they aren't a team where the power of each player is outstanding; if that were the case then they'd probably would have a longer time to get them to make up. However, sadly, Meiko is not.

But luck was on their side. Kikuchi was actually getting annoyed by their behaviour, and as such he had stepped in. In just one session, Kikuchi chased everyone out of the gym (all except Masato and Kise) and after a couple of minutes, they saw the gym doors open revealing a grinning Kikuchi.

But what happened in the gym remained a mystery to the others.

After that, Kise and Masato were more or less friendly with each other but it was clear that they still hated each other. Behind Kikuchi's back they could be seen making threatening gestures at each other, but they tend to act friendly in front of him.

xxxx

"Alright boys! Good work today!" Ishikawa said as he blew his whistle. Immediately, the boys collapsed onto the floor, panting for air. Once again, they were slaving out, but this time it was worst due to the qualifiers coming up.

"Tomorrow we won't have practice but a strategy meeting. Be sure to be in the clubroom at regular time."

"Yes…Sir…" they managed to groan out. With a smile, Ishikawa then went to their bags and pulled out water bottles. He gave each of them, and ruffled their hairs while he was at it.

"Good work as always, you rascals." With that, he left the gym, leaving the boys to fix their now messed up hair. Even though they should be used to it by now, they felt that it was somewhat embarrassing.

When Ishikawa had left, the boys let out a sigh. Earlier today they were given the prelim brackets for the qualifiers, and sadly, right off the bat, they would be facing one of the best teams in their prefecture. Add to that, Meiko had lost to them in the Prelim Finals for the Summer Championship.

"Man, I wonder what Coach is going to plan for tomorrow." Masato sighed. "I mean, we're going up against Garin Middle!"

"Ha! You foolish mortals!" Hayato started up. He had folded his arms and wore a big grin on his face. "Have you forgotten the hell that we went through? We'll definitely beat them! You can leave it up to the Yatogami and his High Priest!" here he threw a hand over Abe's shoulder. The point guard was nodding in accordance.

Kise and Kuroko blanched. They really couldn't get used to this. But, it was still quite refreshing.

"Man, I'm so nervous and it's not even time for the match yet." Ogiwara sighed.

"There really isn't a reason to be, Ogiwaracchi." Kise replied. "I mean, we'll be discussing strategies that's all."

"But I'm not good at it."

"Then don't say anything."

"You…!"

"Me…?"

Ogiwara looked as though he wanted to strangle the blond. Kikuchi then cleared his throat in order to get their attention, that and he really couldn't handle a fight between Ogiwara and Kise. This team has had enough.

"I want you ask you guys something." He started, "do you guys have any ideas for the meeting tomorrow?"

"What's there than to go out and murder them?" Masato said. "I mean, we're the underdogs here, no one expects anything from us."

"I don't think that's a good idea, Masato." Hoshizumi said. "One reason being it's our first match, we can't use all our cards just yet. As a matter of fact, we don't have any."

Just then, Kuroko had an idea. Using the experience he's had from the future, a plan came to mind.

"Being the underdog isn't so bad." He said.

"How?" the other boys (minus Kise) asked.

"Well, in one instance, since no one will expect anything from us, we'll always have the element of surprise up our sleeves. Other teams will tend to not take us seriously until it's too late." He then looked in Kise's direction. Seeing that look, Kise knew that his partner was still hung up about their practice match.

"That makes sense." Mochida agreed.

"And in another, there's less information about us, so teams can't really plan for us. On the flip side, those powerhouse teams have tons of information so we can dissect them as much as we want." Kise grinned.

"That's so true." Hoshizumi was actually chuckling while rubbing his hands together in a sinister way.

"But what I'm worried about is Teikou." Hayato said. "I don't think surprise will work on those monsters."

"It will." Kise joined in.

"How?" they once more asked.

"I have an idea. Masato and Hayato can play like each other right?" the twins nodded. "Then why not have them play like each other until we meet Teikou?"

Abe brightened. "That would lead them to think that Masato is the shooting guard and Hayato is the power forward right?!"

"Yup."

"And then when they see Masato actually being a power forward they'll be stumped…for a while."

"Yeah for a while." Ogiwara sighed. "But what's going to happen when they've become accustomed to it?"

"Well…" they then descended into silence. Kise chuckled at how easily they deflated.

"Guys, calm down a bit." Kikuchi said. "We'll get through this. I like the idea of Masato and Hayato switching places until we meet Teikou. We can get the advantage there, even if it's for a few baskets."

"I have an idea." Ogiwara spoke up. Eyebrows rose at this. Meiko's 'Bundle of Joy' isn't the type to have strategic ideas. "Why don't we purposely win our games by narrow margins until we meet Teikou?"

"Purposely win by narrow margins? Isn't that a bit too risky?" Abe asked.

"No," Kuroko said. "If we do that, then everyone will really think that we can't put up a fight. They'll underestimate us, and think that we won our matches by strokes of luck."

"It's the perfect tactic of deception!" Hoshizumi yelled with joy. "They won't know what hit them!"

"Nice going, Ogiwaracchi." Kise said as he nudged the boy in his side.

"Thanks,"

"But apart from that, Teikou are far more skilled than we are." Masato said. "How the hell are we going to deal with that? No matter the tactics we use they'll overpower us."

"Then, all you have to do work on what you're lacking." Kise said in a matter-of-factly.

"What the hell do you think we've been doing all this time, idiot?!" he barked back.

"Who're you calling an idiot?! I'm talking about teamwork here!"

"Now, now, children. If you fight I'll kill you." Hoshizumi snarled.

"Yes Sir." They murmured. Their captain can be quite scary, sometimes even scarier than Kikuchi.

"Now let's back to the issue at hand, shall we?" Kikuchi smirked. "I like how these ideas can bear fruit."

But unbeknownst to them, by the exit, Ishikawa was listening to every word they uttered.

xxxx

Ishikawa opened the door, shocked to see his entire team sitting in the clubroom with grins on their faces. Seeing their look, he knew that they had something up their sleeves, well, something good for them, and most likely bad for the teams they'll be facing.

"You rascals seem to be in a good mood today."

"Of course!" Ogiwara chirped. "We have some ideas that'll take us to the finals!"

"Hoh? Let me hear them."

All eyes turned towards Kikuchi. The manager let out a deep sigh before he began, "Well, we thought that Masato and Hayato should switch positions and that we should purposely win our matches by narrow margins to fool opponents, especially Teikou."

"I see." Ishikawa nodded, pretending he didn't know. "Those ideas can work, but what are you going to do if we meet Teikou in round one at the Tournament?"

The boys were silenced.

"Coach, you like to see us in despair don't you?" Abe said.

"He really does." Mochida sighed. "No wonder he's still single." He then murmured.

"Don't be like that," Ishikawa chuckled. "It's a Tournament, anything can happen. And plus, Teikou aren't the only ones you should be wary about."

"We know that." Hoshizumi said. "It's just that if we can defeat Teikou, then we can defeat anyone else right?"

"That is correct, but only to an extent. But let's not dwell on that, we have work to do." Ishikawa then placed the DVD in the player and thus the team started their analysis on Garin Middle School. The more they watched, the more Kise and Kuroko saw the others cringe and let out heavy sighs.

It was for a fact that Garin was better than them, and Kise started to wonder that there may be mental shackles as well. They experienced it with Hayato, but his feeling of inferiority actually makes him push out the effort to be the best. But the others…even though they want to be the best, it seems like the moment they see someone better than them, the self-doubts start.

"This isn't good." He mumbled to himself. Add to that, he's always been talented, so he really couldn't understand where they're coming from. They only thing they have in common are getting their asses beaten.

A couple minutes later, Ishikawa stopped the DVD and addressed them. "That's our first opponent. What do you think?"

"Man, I doubt we can win." Masato sighed. "I have to hold off that hulk? He's bigger and taller than me, you know."

Kise rolled his eyes. "If you doubt yourself, you'll reach nowhere."

"It's not like I'm doubting myself. It's just that they're really good!" Masato countered with a huff. "Their play is kinda cool too."

Kise laughed. "That's the problem. Believe me, when you keep on admiring, you'll never be able to surpass them. It's like an invisible chain that restricts you from getting better."

"Eh?"

"That's why Abecchi's growth is somewhat unlimited. He looks up to no one, admires no one, and hates when others are better than him. That way, he'll always find new skills but for someone (like you) who keeps admiring someone, you'll be shackled by the fact that you're not like them. You'll keep wondering if you can be like them, which will be your downfall."

"You actually have a point there." Hoshizumi nodded.

"That's right," Abe joined in. "But don't you dare call me 'Abecchi!' It's disgusting!"

Kise smirked. "Why not, Abecchi?"

"It's exactly as Kise says. Don't admire them. Don't doubt yourself. Just go out there and do your thing." Ishikawa joined in. "Now, let's plan Garin's demise, shall we?"

The boys actually perked at this. "Yes Sir!"

xxxx

The boys of Meiko paced around their locker room in anticipation. Finally, the Winter Qualifiers have begun, but somehow, they all (except Kise and Kuroko) felt knots in their stomachs.

"Guys, I'm gonna vomit. I don't think I can play today." Ogiwara said while clutching his abdomen. "Do you have any antacid for upset stomach?"

"Is it just me, or is the time really hot?" Mochida said as he fanned himself. "I think I might die of a heat stroke before the match."

"Ogiwara, you're perfectly fine and Mochi, it's Winter! You can't die of a heat stroke!" Hoshizumi shouted.

"Technically, we're still in Autumn." Hayato said.

"The point is, he can't get a heat stroke now!" the captain continued to argue.

But this eased the tension in the locker room and had the others busting with laughter. Ishikawa only sat and watched them with an amused expression on his face. They continued with their antics, moving from having heat strokes to possibly having autumn strokes and all sorts of nonsense. Hayato would then begin his epic 'Yatogami' speech; Abe would join in as well.

But Kise and Kuroko cracked up with laughter. This team was just too hilarious.

"Alright you rascals." Ishikawa then said. "Playtime's over, it's time to head out."

The moment he said this, Ogiwara started to pant heavily due to nervousness, Mochida starting up again about getting strokes, Kikuchi throwing threats all over the place and so forth.

"Guys, calm down. Remember, they're middle schoolers just like you." Ishikawa soothed. "There's nothing to worry about."

"That's right you idiots! Let's go out there and slaughter them!" Masato cheered.

"Masato, remember the plan." Kikuchi said. "You can't slaughter them."

"Hai, hai," Masato said as he waved his hand before him in dismissal.

And so, the boys headed out onto the court, the same time that Garin emerged from the other side as well. Seeing their opponents in the flesh, Meiko couldn't help but let out a heavy sigh. On the screen, they looked average (except for their shooting guard), but now, the entire team looks huge.

Reaching at their bench, the Meiko team dropped their bags and began their warm-ups. Garin never even spared a look in Meiko's direction, not that the boys minded. They could feel that they were being underestimated, but after that meeting yesterday, they began to think otherwise about being the underdogs.

After their warm-up time was done, the boys returned to their benches and changed into their jerseys.

"Watch and learn, Kuroko." Abe smirked. "I'll show you how a point guard rolls."

"Okay." He deadpanned.

Abe twitched. "What's with that lacklustre response?!"

"Just get out on the court, Abe." Hoshizumi chuckled.

They then made their way towards the centre-circle where the referee was standing. Meiko's starters were Hoshizumi, Mochida, Abe, Kikuchi and Ogiwara; Hayato and Masato were going to be subbed in at a later time. Kise and Kuroko weren't going to be playing (much to their displeasure).

"Let the game between Meiko Middle School and Garin Middle School begin!"

"Let's play a good game!"

The teams bowed to each other after which they headed towards their respective positions on the court, Mochida and Ten facing off for the ball. But Ten was taller than him so Meiko knew that Mochida won't be able to get the tip-off. And as such, Meiko positioned themselves quite strategically. Abe and Kikuchi were right next to Nine and Four ―Garin's point guard and power forward, Hoshizumi was in their court, and Ogiwara was in Garin's court.

The referee then threw the ball into the air, both boys jumping for it. And as expected, Ten reached the ball, and passed it to Nine. However, Abe made sure to snatch the ball before it reached its destination. Then, he dashed off towards Garin's net, Nine and Five chasing, Ogiwara was free. He then came to a halt, and putting to use what Kuroko taught him, he passed the ball to Ogiwara who received it with ease.

The brunet then stormed towards the net where he made a shot. "Yes!" he cheered.

Meanwhile, on the bench, Masato groaned out. "I thought they didn't want us to stand out."

"Masato, this is just the first basket." Hayato said. "As the game progresses, everyone will forget about that first basket anyway."

"That's true."

Garin's Ten retrieved the ball and made a long pass to Nine. The other players then moved off into Meiko's court, and the moment they crossed the centre-circle they encountered Meiko's zone defense. Abe guarded the top-of-the-circle area, Hoshizumi and Ogiwara were at the left and right wings, in the free throw circle was Kikuchi and guarding the net was Mochida.

Garin stopped momentarily in their tracks but after Nine scanned the entire court, he then instructed his players. They then dashed off towards their markers, but unlike prior, their markers have changed. Abe faced Nine, but Ten marked Hoshizumi, Ogiwara was marked by Four, Kikuchi had Five, Mochida was free.

Seeing this set-up, Meiko had no idea what they were planning, but one thing was clear, Garin wanted to stop Hoshizumi's threes. On any team, shooting guards are the most lethal, so to stop them is like cutting down a team's firepower.

"Tsch, these bastards," Abe murmured to himself.

Just then, Nine went into a crossover in an attempt to pass Abe. But Abe wouldn't let him pass. Having practices with Kise really paid off. However, in an instant, Nine bounced the ball to Seven who was free. He then sprinted towards the free-throw circle where Five and Kikuchi were.

But sadly, Five's defense was extremely good and kept Kikuchi from moving. The two boys could be seen pushing and shoving against each other, but in the end, Five was better. By the time Seven reached close to the net, he was blocked by Mochida, but in that instance, he paused a while before turning his back. This left Mochida frozen for a while but then he saw Seven pass the ball to Five. The boy caught it with ease since he was much taller than Kikuchi.

And, just like that, Five made the shot.

Meiko were unperturbed by this, since it was just the first quarter. Mochida retrieved the ball, and dribbled towards the top-of-the-circle before passing it to Abe. But without hitch, Abe weaved around Nine before passing the ball to Ogiwara. The small forward bolted towards the net but once again, he was stopped by Four. But, making a quick crossover, he bounced the ball to Kikuchi who had run by.

Catching it, Kikuchi continued onwards, but as he was about to make a shot, Ten knocked the ball from his hands, sending it bouncing away. Both Hoshizumi and Five began scrambling for it, but luckily it went out of bounds, giving Meiko a throw-in.

It was done by Ogiwara, and he passed the ball to Abe. With his hand signals, he instructed his team to get into position, and this is where the match really started.

Following Abe's instructions, Ogiwara and Kikuchi then made their way towards the net, while Mochida lagged behind, Hoshizumi close to the sidelines. Playing it safe, former two allowed themselves to be stalled by Four and Five the moment they reached into the free-throw circle area.

Nine moved up to stop Abe who was dribbling up a storm. All eyes were now focused on him, but in the moment that he made a crossover, he passed the ball to Mochida who had then run on further, Hoshizumi made his way carefully towards the right wing. It was then that Seven moved from the paint to stop the centre, but Mochida made a chest pass to Ogiwara who then bounced it to Kikuchi. The manager then passed it back to Abe who, after receiving the ball, broke free of Nine's defense and headed towards the others.

However, he made a pass to the right wing instead, and it was in that instant, Garin spotted Hoshizumi dashing towards it. The captain caught the ball and quickly made a three.

Meiko cheered at that, but what was more surprising was that it had actually worked. Hoshizumi isn't like Kuroko, but thanks to the others grabbing all the attention, it was easy for him to slip to his spot unnoticed before it was too late.

Garin's players twitched.

"Let's get back our points from these no-names." Four hissed to his teammates. The others nodded in agreement.

Hence, the first quarter's pace changed drastically. Garin attacked Meiko, not as ferocious as the boys expected but it was not to be taken lightly. Hoshizumi was always guarded by Ten in an attempt to stop his threes. They didn't wait to know whether or not he was a lethal shooting guard, they left nothing to chance.

Abe and Nine often fought for the ball at the top-of-the-circle, when that didn't work, it was left to how well either point guard instructed their teammates. But as expected, Nine was far more experienced than Abe, so there were times when he got the better of the young teen.

There were times when Meiko manages to get threes as well, but they weren't through Hoshizumi. Kikuchi and Ogiwara, given the situation, would make threes as long as they're possible. This would lessen the burden on Hoshizumi in the sense that Garin now has to watch out for three different people who are capable of shooting threes. And as such, not knowing who will shoot is a plus.

But apart from that, Ogiwara played well. He made sure to use a little of the skills he learnt from Kise, in order to make his shots but mostly to keep a good defense. But, Garin weren't one of the best schools for nothing. There were times when the ball got stolen; balls were intercepted and so on.

Kikuchi played did a good job also. He kept his defender at bay most of the time, and other times he'd managed to get some shots in. His shots however, look like accidents which led Garin to think that he was only good at defense. Luckily for Meiko.

When the second quarter began, it got quite high-paced, but the boys of Meiko still managed to hold out. Well, their summer training wasn't in vain. Back and forth the teams went, but here, Garin's coach realized that he can't take them lightly. Meiko's movements have improved from the last time, but he could tell that there was something off about them. Their movements suggest that they can do better, but they were still playing a bit 'normal'. Too 'normal'. It was as though they were playing with just enough strength to get baskets.

They haven't really put that much into blocking where it would prove troublesome to break free, their threes were as ordinary as they got ―the shots went in, but some landed on the rim just before going in. Their small forward and power forward seem to specialize in offense and defense respectively…the only one who seemed a bit frightful was their centre who seemed to be rooted at the net sometimes. Garin's coach just couldn't understand.

That said, the first half ended with Meiko on twenty-six and Garin on twenty-nine.

"Good going out there, boys." Ishikawa congratulated as his players returned to the bench. "But you do realize that now it's going to get tougher, right?"

"Well, it's going into the second half. Games usually do at this point." Ogiwara sighed.

"It's not that. Garin probably realizes that you're dangerous. Their defense is going to get stronger, and their attacks more ferocious. Stay alert."

"Hai!"

The referee blew his whistle to re-start the game, the two teams making their way back to the court, however, Hoshizumi and Kikuchi were taken out for Masato and Hayato.

The third quarter was like the second, the game being high-paced…run and gun. However, it was only when Garin was on the offense. The boys clad in white and blue were just as Ishikawa had predicted ―ferocious. They dashed with speed towards Meiko and being bigger than the boys, Garin overwhelmed them in many areas such as height.

But, when Meiko is on the offense, the game's pace is slowed down, so slow that the audience (the little that was there) found it somewhat creepy. On Garin's side, it was quite annoying, as just a little before, they'd be rushing towards the boys in green. It took a toll on their legs; the slow pace making the lactic acid build up.

Masato hardly made any threes, since his marker was a monster. Prior to the match, he had conditioned himself for their shooting guard, but it turns out that the Ten was marking him instead. Anytime he received the ball and was about to shoot, the bulky teen would block him, thus forcing him to pass often to either Ogiwara or Hayato or Abe (if he's close).

But, Meiko used this to their advantage. Ten had gotten used to Masato not shooting when he has the ball, so he has always had to be on the look-out. This gave Masato chances to fake passes to his teammates when in reality he goes for shots instead.

Hayato and Five were often time at odds with each other, since Hayato is a shooting guard; he knows all the tricks that his type would use. Five couldn't escape that. Add to that, Hayato felt like taking revenge for Hoshizumi, after all, the bleached blond teen regards their captain as one of his 'people'.

In the fourth quarter, that was when things got nasty. Garin's defense seemed to have no holes, their offensive power increased as well. It was at this point in time that Kuroko and Kise saw the fruits of their labour. Abe and Hayato's partnership was superb. Abe's passes to the Yatogami often time left their defenders speechless, Ogiwara, Masato and Mochida tried their best not to let the others get in their way. Ogiwara and Mochida worked together as well, the small forward would often time shoot the ball from the outside fooling the opponent into thinking that he would make a three. In reality, it would be an alley-oop with Mochida.

Masato on the other hand, he proved to be a great hindrance to Garin. Since Ten was always guarding him, he sort of relinquished his position as shooting guard and helped out his teammates instead. He'd scan the court for the best possible routes and to warn them of any dangers. It seemed as though Masato and Abe switched positions for a while.

But, at the end of it all, Meiko won the match seventy to sixty-eight.

xxxx

"We won!" Hayato cheered. He then turned towards Ishikawa. "Coach, I think we need a treat."

"After you make it to the actual tournament." Was his swift reply.

"Coach!" the boys wailed out. "Don't be so mean!"

"Why don't we go for popsicles?" Kise then suggested. "They're cheap and refreshing."

"That doesn't sound like a bad idea." Hoshizumi agreed. "So, where exactly are we going? I don't remember seeing a convenience store around here."

"I know the perfect place with the perfect set of flavours!" Hayato perked. "However, it's in Tokyo."

"We can catch a train." Masato said, "it's not that far from us."

"But, I won't have any money left for the popsicles! We'll have to take the train back, right?" Mochida said.

"Don't worry, it's on me." Kise smiled.

"As expected from the model." Abe nodded. "In that case I want ―"

"One popsicle per person. I'm not that rich."

"Aww! Can't you buy two boxes?" Hoshizumi pouted. "It's cheaper that way."

"If you all don't stop, I think I'll change my mind."

In an instant, their behaviour changed and they marched off towards the station. Kise was appalled by their swift mood change, but realized that they really wanted the popsicles. He chuckled to himself, this sort of reminded him of the times when he was at Teikou in his previous life. It was almost like a ritual, after a game they'd go get some popsicles.

Not before long, they made it to the station, and managed to catch the train that was about to leave. Throughout the ride, they kept silent since there were so many people around. When they finally made it to their destination, they swiftly dismounted and made it successfully to the convenience store.

Without hitch, Kise made a beeline for the fridge, and actually took up the two boxes. The others brightened up at that, and the moment they left the store, they opened the first box and took out their desired flavour.

"Ah, the melonberry flavour soothes my soul!" Abe purred. "Delicious~"

"No way, the blueberry is the best!" Hayato countered. "Nothing beats the blueberry flavour!"

Kuroko listened to their playful banter all the while nibbling on his popsicle. This does brings back memories, but he realized that it's all in the past, for the Miracles, it never happened. Just then, they rounded a corner and saw a flock of Teikou students.

"Would you look at that? Seems like we're in Teikou's domain." Hoshizumi said. "Should we be attacked, we'd be severely outnumbered. Men, evasive manoeuvre!"

"Yes Sir!" And just like that, the boys started to duck behind poles; into dark alleys…they hid behind anything that they could find. Kuroko and Kise played along as well, and at one point, they thought that Kuroko was missing. They burst into a frenzy, until the light-blue haired spoke up in a deadpanned manner,

"I'm here."

And this caused them to let out manly screams, which drew the attention of the other pedestrians. They continued their walk back towards the train station, by this time; they had finished eating their first popsicles. It was then that Kuroko noticed something. On his stick, the word 'Winner' was there. Remembering what happened the last time he had the stick, he swiftly gave it to Ogiwara, and told him to do whatever he wanted with it.

"Kuroko, this is something you should give to a fair maiden!" he said with vigour. "I am a man! I don't need these!" he then murmured to Kuroko, "Thanks though."

"Ogiwaracchi, do you see a fair maiden around here?" Kise asked as he distributed the other set of popsicles.

"Well not ―" he cut himself off as bright pink caught his eyes, exiting from a nearby store. "There! I spot a pink haired beauty!"

"Where?!" they asked. When Ogiwara pointed in the direction, their mouths hung open in surprise. There she was walking in the opposite from them. She was none other than Momoi Satsuki.

"Go for it man!" Masato said.

"If you don't strike now, you'll never be able to for the rest of your life!" Hayato added. "Catch her before it's too late!"

"I shall not let this go to waste! I shall make haste!" Ogiwara chuckled as he sped off towards the pink haired beauty. But, Kuroko ducked behind a tree instinctively, remembering that in his previous life, this was the start of Momoi's 'love' for him. Surely, he doesn't want a repeat of that.

But, then, he figured that this may be a good chance to have a talk with Kise. If memory serves him right, there should be a street court somewhere around here. And so, Kuroko grabbed Kise's wrist and dragged him away from the fussing boys and not to be spotted by Momoi.

But this action didn't go unnoticed by Hoshizumi. With a smirk, he gathered the rest of the boys quickly.

"Mochi, Kikumo, Masato," he began. "You guys follow Ogiwara and make sure to video." The trio nodded their understanding. "Hayato, Abe, you'll be coming with me. We'll see what those two are up to." The Yatogami and his Priest grinned evilly.

xxxx

"This court brings back memories." Kise said as he gazed into the evening sky. "So why did you bring me here?" he turned as he asked Kuroko.

"I need to talk to you."

"Well, that's pretty obvious. It wouldn't be to play basketball since neither of us has any."

"I've come to realize that I really like you." Kuroko didn't even hitch. But hearing that, Kise froze. He stared at Kuroko for about a minute or so before saying,

"Could you repeat that?" He knew what he had heard but he wanted some sort of confirmation. Something that'll reassure him that this is not a dream.

"I like you."

Kise stared once more. This is not a dream. This. Is. Not. A. Dream! Kise screamed in his thoughts. A broad smile appeared on his face; happy would be an understatement to describe how he felt at this moment. He's waited years for this, endured hardships for this, and finally, his suffering has paid off.

Meanwhile, seeing Kise seize up like that made Kuroko wondered if the boy was having a heart attack or something. Fretting, he placed a hand on Kise's cheek, slightly patting him.

"Ki―" Kuroko broke off as he felt soft feathery lips crash onto his. He was taken aback by this, but then he felt arms slid around his waist pulling him closer. Kuroko had leaned his back against the wall, and tried to resist since they were in an open area, but he couldn't.

He can't.

Giving in to his desires, snaking his arms around Kise's neck, Kuroko returned the kiss with likewise fervour. Their kiss was quite heated, Kise seeming as though he wanted to devour the smaller boy. Kise then undid the third and fourth button on Kuroko's shirt before sliding his hand in, earning a gasp from the boy.

Using this chance, Kise claimed Kuroko's mouth and losing his balance, Kuroko was slowly leaning backwards. However, both boys broke apart the moment they heard a shout,

"Calm down, bro! Don't eat him!"

Kuroko looked around, trying to find out who the sound came from. But, neither boy could see anyone.

"Is it just me, or did that shout sounded like Hayato?" Kise asked.

"It did."

xxxx

Hoshizumi, Hayato and Abe trailed behind Kise and Kuroko, Abe holding his phone and videoing every step they took. The bespectacled teen didn't want to miss a moment, and he knew that the others didn't want to either. Soon, they came up on a street court, and lucky for the trio, there were bush nearby to conceal them.

Hiding in the bush, Hoshizumi and Hayato stayed on either side of Abe and withheld the bush out of his face and the camera's lenses.

"This court brings back memories," they heard Kise say.

"Oh man! I like the acoustics out here! Perfect volume!" Abe joked.

"Shut up! You want them to know that we're here!?" Hoshizumi snapped.

They refocused back to the two transfers just in time to hear Kuroko's confession. All three were shocked at this, as the normally stoic and (sometimes) cold Kuroko was actually confessing his love to Kise?

"This is my confession~" Hoshizumi sang.

"If I'm gonna tell it then I gotta tell it all~" Hayato joined in. Poor Abe, caught in the middle, wanted to laugh out but couldn't. But, they got a surprise. Kuroko pat Kise on his cheek, after which they saw Kise crash his lips onto Kuroko's.

"He went in for the kill!" Abe and Hayato screeched.

"Kise's hands are starting to roam as well!" Hoshizumi said as though he was a commentator. "But wait!" he let out a gasp. "Kuroko isn't dead yet! He's resisting Kise's fierce attack!"

"Just give in to the carnal desires of man and let him in!" Hayato said the last part between gritted teeth. "Don't be stubborn, Kuroko!"

"I can't understand this." Abe joined in. "Isn't Kuroko the one who just confessed? Why is he resisting? Doesn't he want to be kissed by his love?"

"Maybe it's because they're out in the open. Kise's a model, so this could be one nasty scandal." Hayato answered.

"I see what you mean." Hoshizumi nodded. "Kuroko isn't out of the woods yet. His HP is draining slowly but surely. If he doesn't do something he's ―oh my God!" Hoshizumi continued with his commentating. "Kuroko was conquered! He gave in! More like, his defences crumbled against the blond's attack! His HP is draining rapidly…" Hoshizumi paused to take a breath. "…now both boys are caught in a passionate kissing session! Kise is not holding back! It seems as though years of yearning for Kuroko's love have finally burst forth!"

"Kise is quite the sly bastard." Hayato then commented when he saw Kise fumbling with the shirt. "Currently, the blond bastard is messing with Kuroko's buttons and is sliding his hand in. I've seen this tactic before. My sixteen year old brother uses this tactic on his girlfriend when he doesn't want to get caught!"

"Kise…I see he's trying to devour the poor boy! Such savagery!"

I think you're the savage one here, Captain. Abe thought wryly.

"Heh! But even so, Kuroko doesn't mind! Look!" Hayato joined in. "Kuroko is now wrapping his hands around Kise's neck, beckoning to his partner to not stop! Oh my! He's even entangling his fingers into the blond's locks! WHOO! I think Mochi was right! I really will die of a heat stroke! It's too hot over here!" Hayato said while fanning himself like crazy.

Abe, who's acting as the cameraman was currently fighting for his life. Being surrounded by these idiots and their stupid comments, he wanted to bust with laughter but he couldn't. He didn't want his phone to drop in the dirt. Struggling to stay alive, Abe continued to video all the while doubling his lips together. He then closed his eyes and inhaled, trying to calm his nerves.

"Calm down bro! Don't eat him!"

Abe was taken out of his thoughts when he heard Hayato made that screech. It was quite loud and he wouldn't be surprised if Kise and Kuroko heard him. And so it was. Both boys had looked directly in their direction.

"Shit! Retreat!" Hoshizumi shouted while dashing through the bush, Abe and Hayato following close behind. They managed to end up back at the convenience store, and surprisingly the others were there waiting.

"Hayato!" Masato shouted in glee upon seeing his brother. "Guess what? Ogiwara got her email!"

"That's…great…" Hayato panted, likewise Abe and Hoshizumi. The others realized that they looked absolutely tired and raised their eyebrows in confusion.

"Why do you look like that?" Mochida asked. "Were you chased by something?"

"No, but we needed to get out of there. Kise would have killed us."

"Why?"

"Bro, you'll see soon." Hayato smirked. But then he turned to look at Ogiwara. "Now tell me how it went with you and that girl."

"It was normal. We talked." The brunet responded.

"Do you take me for a fool?! I said, tell me what the hell happened!" Hayato roared.

"Spare me Yatogami-sama! But honestly, we just talked. At first she was pissed thinking that I was giving her my garbage. So I explained to her and she cheered up a little. She then asked me what was I doing here since the uniform is one she didn't recognize. I told her and that's when I found out that she's into basketball as well."

"Really?!" Hoshizumi said. "You go boy, that girl is a gem, you better cherish her."

"Heh," Ogiwara said as he rubbed the back of his head, "that's not all; she's the manager for Teikou's basketball club."

A moment of silence came. Jaws dropped to the ground and eyes nearly popped out of their sockets. When they came to, Kikuchi was the first to reply,

"This situation is grave. That's like sleeping with your enemy!"

"Wait, weren't you guys watching? How is this surprising?" Hoshizumi asked.

"We saw, but there was no audio. They were too far." Masato sighed.

"Well, now that the interrogation over, can we go home now?" Abe asked. "My legs are killing me."

"But Kise and Kuroko aren't here." Kikuchi said. "At least ―"

"We can leave them. They're busy." Hayato said quickly.

"What could they be 'busy' doing?" Ogiwara said.

"Who's busy?"

"Speak of the devil and he shall appear, huh." Masato drawled. Kise and Kuroko walked towards them, both looking as though they were dipped sparkles. However, Kuroko was constantly touching his lips, seeming to be in a daze. Everyone noticed that, but decided to ignore it, except Ogiwara.

"Why are you touching your lips so often Kuroko?" he asked.

"Ah," Kuroko said as he looked up. "They just got a taste of heaven that's all."

Ogiwara paused. "It's the popsicles, right?! They really were divine!"

"You ignorant fool!" Abe, Hayato and Hoshizumi came out all at once, startling the brunet and the others there.

"What? What did I do?"

"Just keep walking."

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