Chapter 35: Apologies
Ah, my first entirely negative review since I cut out part of chapter 1. I've been expecting you for some time. First, I'd like to say thank you for taking the time to read my story up to it's current point, and thank you again for seeing it worthy of a review. As for my grammar, I do make a few grammar and spelling mistakes when I'm tired, and when I change things I may forget to change a tense or a word. I normally catch them when I'm checking for them on my phone, but my phone doesn't let me edit my documents, and I forget by the time I get home. I apologize if you think this is a big parody, I have a long history with parodies. I've been writing one in particular for something like five and a half years now, it's seeped into my brain. I'm hardwired to think of and include any and all references I think of. That often overlaps with Disney, something I'm an ardent fan of the olden days. In fact, there's one massive Disney reference I've been making that I'd bet money no one will have caught until I point it out probably in the chapter after this. The funniest thing about this, however, is that I recognized a while back that I do too many references to Disney. To date, there are 58 references to them that I've seen and avoided making for that reason. That's not to say they'll stop, but maybe I'll see about trying to lighten up on them. I already have two more planned, though those are very, VERY far away from each other. However, sometimes I do think that I make too many references, I'll give you that one. Actually, there's really only one thing in your review I whole-heartedly disagree with. Your last two sentences. Perhaps I should explain my point of view. You said that making references to other fanfics is lazy. If I make a reference to Harry Potter, am I lazy? If I make a reference to Lord of the Rings, am I lazy? If I make a reference to the Hobbit, am I lazy? I don't believe so. The fanfics I reference, I reference because they're extremely talented authors who deserve a much larger audience than they have. Flygon, I'm gonna pick on ya here a little, but let's take them for example. Only one other time have I seen Konata with such a broken past that could even remotely be construed as cannon, and never so skillfully done as I have seen when they did it. I've read all of the books I've talked about above, and I consider Flygon's works to be just as capable of being referenced as they are if not more so. Give me something Flygon wrote first. I'm not putting them down, but that's how highly I regard Flygon's writing skills. In that respect, I reference him above referencing Harry Potter, or Lord of the Rings, or the Hobbit, ect. That point aside, most, if not all, of my readers have read his stories. I prefer to make references I hope the audience will understand and enjoy. For example, in this story, I put a reference to a movie by the name of "The Jazz Singer". You'll be able to point out a reference to Flygon faster than you would one to that movie. Again, ignoring those points. An example of my next point, Kurono. He's a shout out to the Lucky Life Trilogy. Should I have, instead of making said reference, created a character that would serve the same purpose, with the same attitude, when one that would have been a reference to such an awesome story, and one that would have already been in the cannon of the Lucky Star universe, is so readily available to me? Perhaps. But again, that's not how my brain has been hardwired, blame Pavlov for that one. One more thing Army, I think I have a good bit of Konami, unless you mean for them to be a couple. And if you still maintain the opinion that I don't, just think of this. That means I have more than 250,000 words worth of Konami pent up that I'm just waiting to release, right? Like I said a few chapters ago, I may be at the half way point if I do nothing but focus on Konami and Kankasa for the rest of the story. Honestly, how much longer do you think I have in me to stall this with drama? Well, technically I could stall another 26 chapters, I came up with a story plot that would allow me to do that, but I wouldn't really succeed since the fans would lynch me after the seventh chapter. But I do agree, the story takes it a bit slow, but as one of my other reviewers put it so marvelously, you don't generally go from schoolfriends to full-blown relationship in 60K words, especially under the circumstances these characters are under. I couldn't imagine that they would, and I don't want to write what I don't feel, or the result will not only be horrible, but it will also be something I'm unmotivated to write and will likely be updated only once every few months, or something that gets dropped entirely. I learned that a long time ago. Well, I hope you continue reading and reviewing!Wow, I just realized how long it took me to reply to that one review... Okay, other reviews! Congratulations on mostly getting it Sqweebs! I'm glad you liked it Mavrick! It's easy HolyRiot, I do a lot of push ups and sit ups and I drink plenty of juice. And I'm lucky to have a good bodyguard! Besides, I'm not the one who said the meme, Konata is! And yes, technically, that was my shortest chapter! LOL Stealth. Thank you for the compliment! So I did a bit of research. I found a story that I'm shootin' to beat. It's called The Subspace Emissary's Worlds Conquest. It currently has 3,357,528 words. And I think it's still going... Mother of God... Okay, so I'm probably not gonna beat it. I'll tell ya now, I probably won't. Can't say I won't try though! We'll just have to see, won't we? Ulti! As a matter of fact, I actually had a bit of an idea with a few of the characters. Maybe I can write another three million words! By my calculations, it'll take me about another 11.5 years to hit that. About. About the Mind Palace bit, that's an actual method of memorization that I use myself. Granted, it isn't a palace. The idea is that it can be as big as you want as long as you can remember it's layout. I'm still building mine... Kiyo, glad to see you're still liking the story, you haven't reviewed for 15 chapters! Holy Haruhi, this is getting way too freaking long. Okay guys, I'm gonna just let you get to the chapter already. Sorry about that long, long~ beginning.
POV Kagami
Kagami blinked awake in Konata's bed. She looked over to see it was still early in the morning. She felt horrible. She sat up.
Where could she be? She wondered. She hadn't been at home, but she had come this way. What else was around here? Kagami sighed. She couldn't think of anything in her distress. She looked around, desperate for any distraction that could be provided. She saw her notebook, the one she had accidentally left at Konata's house during her sickness. She picked it up, but a pencil fell off of it. Did she write in it? Kagami wondered. She opened it.
Dear Diary, ….
Did Kona use this as a diary? I can't read this! This is super private! But... Kagami held the notebook. This might lead me to Kona. She thought. Breathing deeply, she battled in her head. Privacy, or the possible well being of her love? She knew what she was about to do was horrible, but she was desperate to find her Kona. She continued.
Dear Diary,
I am sick and this is my first entry. I guess I'll have to pay Kagami back for this notebook, eh? I just need to get my thoughts out, but I don't want to infect anyone, especially not Kagamin, though I know she would listen. She came to visit yesterday and her concern seemed genuine. I'm really grateful to her, but I feel guilty that she worried about me. I wish she would come over more, but I don't want to get her sick! I want both! Well, I'm getting tired Diary. I guess I had better get some more sleep...
Konata~
Kagami smiled as she read the words. She turned the page.
Dear Diary
I know I'm only really suppose to write in you once per day at most, but I'm really happy right now! Kagami, as if she heard me, came over this morning and made me a delicious pancake! Imagine that! Not only that, she's coming after school today too! I really hope I can get over this bug soon so I can see her some more at school, though I wouldn't mind her still coming over more... At this point, Kagami could imagine that cute catgrin was returning. I really can't wait until she comes back, but I only got half an hour of sleep before. I figure I can sleep during school time and then wake up for them to come! I'm so excited! Bye Diary!
Konata~
Kagami smiled again. So that pancake was good. I guess I did put a lot of love into it, whether I realized it or not. She flipped the page again.
Dear Diary,
Yesterday was so much fun, I wanted to tell you about it but I had already written in you twice! When Kagami and the others came over, Kagami and Tsukasa ended up staying for a slumber party! It did get really weird at one point though. I was chasing Kagami and got tired so I laid down and asked her to get some manga. But when she did, she slipped and fell above me! It happens I know, but then it got... different. She started to lean in really close, she almost kissed me! Thing is... I don't know that I would hate it... I don't know what I'm feeling right now Diary but I really need to find out soon. I think I have feelings for Kagami... I've always joked about how cute she was and everything, I guess that's coming true. I don't know... I'm sorry you're getting stuck with all my problems Diary, but that's what you're for, right? Well, I gotta go now or I'll be late for school! Bye Diary!
Konata~
Kagami felt tears in her eyes. It was that long ago? Konata had had feelings for her since then? She felt so stupid for having never noticed. Kagami thought back to that night. To be completely honest, I don't know that I would have hated it either. She sighed in her head. She breathed deeply and looked back. She turned the page. Her heart leaped at what she saw next.
I'M IN LOVE WITH KAGAMI! Oh yeah...
Dear Diary, -June 1st
I'M IN LOVE WITH KAGAMI! I know why I always hug her and tease her and smile and make perverted comments and everything! I love her, Dairy! I love her! But... She doesn't love me... Every time I hug her, she pushes me off...Every time I talk to her, I just end up pissing her off... I always annoy her... She says I'm like a perverted old man... I-
End. The rest of the page was too wet to be able to distinguish anything more. What was on the paper already, however, tore at Kagami's soul. Kona, I never hated you. Never, never, never. June 1st, I think that was the day that Tsukasa fell asleep on the subway. She thought back. She's loved me for so long... I guess I have too, I just didn't know it. She sighed. Then the full impact of what she had just read hit her. This was why she was acting so weird. Why she started shrinking whenever I got angry... Kona, I've been so horrible to you... Tears in her eyes, she flipped again.
Dear Diary
I'm so confused! Kagami said she likes how I am, but she yells at me for it! Man, now that I read them, I realize that each of my entries have been about Kagami. Maybe I need to talk about something else... So I have a brother now. Yeah, he's really nice once you get to know him. My first impression was all wrong, even though he was a bit of a prick. He also... He also... I thought he wanted Kagami, but I guess I was wrong. I sure am glad I was too... Now if you'll excuse me, I need to get ready for a short day at work. Bye Diary!
Konata~
Boy do I feel stupid. Kagami muttered in her head. It seems as if every page, though it didn't say it directly, made Kagami think about how stupid and mean she had been acting to Konata. Now she was starting to realize what confusing messages she must have been sending. I have to make it up to her! If I can find her... Kona... She thought, her heart hurting. Now she also felt bad because Konata seemed so relieved in her words that Tony hadn't been interested in Kagami. She felt bad that that hadn't been true. She sighed and wiped the tears away. She turned the page again.
Dear Diary,
I've just been told that Kagami talks about me at home! Whether that's good or bad... Well, I don't know, but I like it! And I also figured out that Tsukasa likes Tony! I'm wondering if I should tell him or not? I never said I wouldn't if she told me, after all! Anyway, I'm tired Diary, probably from the giant run I had during the tournament. Speaking of which, I wonder when I should give Kagami that ring? Can I give it to her for no reason you think? Last time I gave her something for no reason, she didn't believe me... Maybe I can turn it into a joke? No, that would be stupid. That's one of the things she hates... Maybe I'll ask Tony... He's good at strategies... Either way, thanks for listening Diary!
Konata~
Kona ran all the way home from the tournament and back in ten minutes? Holy crap! Just to get money so she could buy me this... She looked up at the ring still on her finger. She's done so much for me... I feel so horrible! How could I have hurt such a perfect angel? She asked herself, though she knew she had no answer. She sighed and turned the page once more.
Dear Diary,
I almost kissed Kagami today! I wish I had. I so wish I had. I asked her about how she would know who she loved. She responded by telling me that she'd just know. And she listed off a whole bunch of stuff! Hm... now that I think back, I think Kagami said she at one point... Maybe my wish that she liked me is messing with my head. I don't know if I can live up to her expectations, but I sure as hell gotta try! I think the best I can do is try to make her feel safe when I hug her. She said she liked it when I hugged her too! That made me so happy. I don't think I can even put it into words. Imagine something you enjoyed more then almost anything you can think of was healthy and profitable and good and stuff. I don't think that even does it. I love her. I wish she could see that. I'm tired now. I'm going to sleep diary. Thanks for listening.
Konata~
This was really recently. Kagami couldn't help it. Tears fell from her cheeks as she cried. She had hurt Konata. Her Konata. Well, she couldn't really call her hers now, could she? I don't deserve her. This was when I first started to realize I was in love with her. I wish you had too Kona. Please... I hope you can forgive me when I find you... She cried, tears falling onto the paper. She wiped her tears once more and turned the page twice by accident. By this action, she could see that the next entry was the last. She turned back to it.
Dear Diary.
Kagami hates me. She just chased me away after I confessed. Dad's asleep. I've gotta see Tony, he said he owed me one, something about helping Tsukasa in the past. Anything he could do, he'd do for me. I'm calling in my favor.
Konata
Kagami felt a sense of dread coming over her. What? What does that mean? Kagami gasped, afraid of the implications. No! I've gotta find her! I hope she's still at Tony's house! Kagami sprang up and ran out the door. She dashed past the living room and out the door. She jumped down the steps leading up to Konata's house and ran over to Tony's front door. She smashed on the door as hard as she could. "TONY!" She shouted. "OPEN UP!" Tony soon opened. He looked a sort of depressed.
POV Tony
Tony was sitting happily on the couch, eyes closed and almost asleep. Suddenly, the door burst open, stirring Tony and causing him to look over. He saw Konata, tears in her eyes, and a look of fear on her face. That scared him.
"Konata?" Tony asked. Konata ran over to Tony, kicking the door closed in the process, and hugged onto him.
"Tony, I confessed to Kagami!" Konata shouted. Tony's fear deepened by magnitudes.
"And...?" He asked.
"She laughed at me and chased me away!" Konata cried into Tony's shirt. The notion that Kagami could do something like that seemed ridiculous.
"No way, you must have misunderstood! Kagami loves you, I know it!" Tony said. Konata shook her head.
"She laughed at me! I'm just a Yuri freak! She hates me!" Konata sobbed. Tony hugged her.
"Kon-kon, you're not a freak, she didn't laugh at you, and she most certainly does NOT hate you. I'm giving you my personal guarantee." Tony said. Konata hiccuped, but otherwise made no attempt to stop crying. What she did do was look up into Tony's eyes and stare at him.
"Kan-kan, how did you feel when you thought Tsukasa had rejected you?" Konata asked. Tony sighed.
"It was one of the worst feelings I've ever experienced." He said. Konata fiercely nodded her head.
"Only she didn't reject you! Kagami laughed at me!" Konata shouted. Tony sighed.
"Maybe I can go have a talk with her." Tony suggested. Konata sniffled.
"Kan-kan, if you want to help, I know how." Konata said.
"Name it Konata." Tony smiled.
"Do you think you can manipulate time?" Konata asked. Tony's eyes widened.
"What?" The smile faded fast.
"Can you turn back time? I want to take back my confession to Kagami, it's too soon! Do you have the energy?" Konata asked. Tony sighed.
"Konata, I'm sorry. Time is NOT something I want to mess with. Technically, yeah, I could. I could drain the energy from everything around us until I got what was necessary. Casualties wouldn't matter since we were going back to a time before they died, but still. I don't have the wisdom to tamper with the time line." Tony determined.
"I'm calling in my favor." Konata said.
"What?" Tony asked.
"I said I'm calling in my favor! You remember after we watched Lion King, you said you owed me one, that anything within your power was mine! Well this is what I want, and you just said it was in your power!" Konata argued. Tony gulped. He was caught by his own gratitude.
"Konata..." He muttered. "Please, understand. There are a million and one ways this could go horribly, horribly wrong." Tony said.
"No worse than things already are!" Konata said.
"Oh really? You said she chased you off. Picture you both having a great time, but you leave as friends. She goes to her house, but gets hit by a car on her way home! Or mugged, or raped, or who knows what? You know how dangerous the streets can get at night!" Tony said. "If any of those happened, it's very possible you'd never have a chance to see her again. And let me tell you Konata, losing a loved one without being able to tell them goodbye... There's no worse pain. Not even what you're feeling now." Tony's voice dropped. Konata blinked and sighed.
"But Kan-kan..." Konata breathed. Tony sighed.
Damn it, I can't stand to see a girl cry... "Konata. Wait twenty four hours. If you truly think that there is no other way, I'll do it. But I'm not sending you back alone, I'm coming too. Just promise me that you'll think about this. This is NOT something that I can do lightly, and if you hadn't helped Tsukasa so much in the past, I would not even consider the topic open." Tony said. Konata smiled.
"Thank you." She sighed contently.
"Please, take my bed. I'll sleep out here." Tony said.
"Where's your brother?" Konata asked. Tony shrugged.
"Still at work I think. He can have the guest room." Tony said. Konata smiled.
"Thank you Kan-kan." She said.
"You're welcome." He rubbed and patted her back. "Go get some sleep." He said. Konata smiled and got up. She walked to his room and closed the door. Tony sighed and laid back on the couch and closed his eyes. He fell asleep. Suddenly, there was banging. Banging and yelling. Tony groaned and got up. He figured he couldn't have slept for more than five hours based on the light he saw as he opened the door.
"Hello Kagami." He said curtly.
"Tony, let me in! I have to see Konata!" Kagami demanded. Tony sighed.
"I'm sorry Kagami, she doesn't want to see you right now." He said. Kagami glared at him.
"Listen, I HAVE to see her! About last night! She's my friend, you can't keep me from her!" She said. Tony flared his nostrils.
"She's MY sister, and I'll keep you from who ever the hell I want to, understand? You hurt her very, VERY badly! I won't have you coming into MY house and hurting her again!" Tony said. Kagami stepped back from the defiance in his voice. Kagami breathed in, then out.
"Tony, I love her." Kagami said, looking fiercely into his eyes. Tony raised his eyebrows in surprise. But they were soon followed by a skeptical look.
"Right. Because when I love someone, I laugh in their face when they confess." Tony said spitefully.
Oh to hell with this! Kagami shouted in her head as she ducked past him. She didn't make it half way to the hall before she found she couldn't move.
"Forget not who you are dealing with!" A voice boomed in her head. Tony's voice. "Konata is precious to me, if you so much as THINK of hurting her, I will tear out your throat and force feed you it!" He thundered viciously in her head. She started trembling as she was involuntarily dragged back to the door by some invisible force.
"Tony..." She mumbled, tears flowing down her cheeks. "Is there nothing... Nothing I can do?" She looked up into his eyes.
Damn it! That isn't fair! He cursed in his head. I can't stand to see a girl cry... Did that just become common knowledge or something? This is the second damn time! He thought. "Kagami, there's one thing. It's going to feel really weird, but you have to promise not to fight it." Tony said quickly. Kagami blinked. She then got a very downcast look and averted her gaze.
"I hope that came out wrong... But I'll do it. If I can see Kona first, I'll do whatever you want. Just know that I want nothing to do with you after it's done." She mumbled, looking down. Tony thought about what he had said and realized where Kagami was coming from.
Whoa. I didn't mean it like that, yet she still agreed. Tony thought. That spoke volumes of either the girl's dedication, or lack there of. However, she had said she'd want nothing to do with him afterward. But Tony still had to make sure. "It came out wrong Kagami. Just try to clear your mind." Tony said. Kagami sniffled and tried. Tony reached into her mind, doing his best to shroud his own thoughts, and searched. He found emotion after emotion. He found memories of old and recent times. Finally, he found a feeling of remorse that he could only compare to his after he had practically poisoned Tsukasa. Once he felt that, he knew she was sincere. He delved a sight deeper and found a massive well of devotion, waiting for an outlet. Waiting for Konata. "Kagami..." He muttered. He sighed and stepped aside. "You have been weighed, you have been measured, and you have been found remorseful. You may go, but know this." He looked into her eyes. "If you do anything, anything at all, to hurt my sister, then there will be no charity for you." He threatened. "I've never hit a girl before, and I don't know what the gods will think of me if I do, but they know I will." Kagami sighed in relief and smiled.
"Tony, thank you. I owe you." Kagami said. "Now I need to go apologize to Kona." Kagami walked into Tony's room, where she had suspected Tony had set her up so she would be comfortable, to see Konata sitting on the bed, crying. It broke Kagami's heart. Konata looked up to see Kagami. The Otaku suddenly got a very panicked look and backed up against the wall.
"Ho-How did you get in? I told Tony I didn't want to see you!" Konata pointed at Kagami, trembling.
"Kona..." Kagami started walking up to Konata. Konata, however, grabbed the nearest object, a pillow luckily, and hurled it at Kagami. It hit her in the face, but she wouldn't back down if it were knives thrown at her.
"No! Kagami, you hurt me!" Konata shouted. "You hate me! I'm just a disgusting Yuri freak!" Konata shouted.
"Kona!" Kagami cried out. Konata was hyperventilating. "Please Kona! Don't run! You're not disgusting, you're not a freak!" Kagami shouted, walking towards her love. Konata was still backing up as much as she could but, since she was already at the wall, she found she couldn't. "Kona..." Kagami reached her love. She looked into her eyes and could see the fear behind them. "I love you." She said. Konata was breathing heavily, looking at the Tsundere.
"Yo-Yo-You're lying..." She said. "You hate me." Konata muttered. Kagami brought Konata into a hug.
"I don't hate you. I love you." Kagami repeated. They stayed that way for a moment before Kagami broke the hug and smiled to Konata. Konata looked confused. Then she looked a little happy. Then, however, she looked enraged. Next thing Kagami knew, she was on the ground. Konata brought her hand back up from her side and looked down at Kagami as a red hand print appeared on the younger girl's face.
"You can't love me! Why the fuck would you laugh at me if you loved me too?" Konata shouted angrily. Kagami's cheek burned like the sun, but she knew she would have to bear the pain. She knew she deserved every bit of it and more.
"Listen Kona, I wasn't laughing at you..." Kagami picked herself up onto her knees. "I was laughing at something else."
"What then? What was so damn funny that you would laugh when I confessed to you?" Konata demanded. Kagami sighed.
"I can't tell you that, but please just trust me Kona!" Kagami pleaded. "I would do anything for you, just name it! I'll do it!" Kagami said. Konata growled.
"Leave me alone for a little while Kagami." Konata walked back to the bed and sat down. "I need to think." She said. "If you love me, you're gonna have to prove it. Sorry doesn't prove anything unless you mean it, and I'm not sure you do." Kagami felt tears in her eyes again, but got to her feet and walked to the door. She turned to see Konata.
"Konata... I'm so sorry..." She muttered before she left. Konata took a deep breath and laid back in the bed. There came a knock at the door a moment later.
"Come." Konata said lazily. Tony opened the door.
"Konata, what's going on? I heard shouting." He said as he entered the room.
"I need to think Tony. Kagami said she loved me, but I don't know. I wish I could be sure." Konata sighed. Tony sighed as well.
"Konata, I can't tell you what you should do right now. You're free to stay here as long as you like, or you could come and watch the tournament. Or maybe even enter if you want." Tony offered. "We could make a day of it!" He said cheerfully.
"Thanks Tony, I might take you up on that." Konata said flatly. Tony sighed.
"In the mean time, I'll leave you with a thought. I read Kagami's mind before she came in. She was sorry. Very sorry." Tony turned and left the room, leaving Konata to her thoughts. She thought by herself for a long while.
Should I forgive Kagami? Tony just said she was genuinely sorry! But no, Kagami has to prove her love! But still... This debate continued in her head for at least an hour. It could have been longer. She neither tossed nor turned, nor did anything catch her attention. Konata felt tears in her eyes. I'm gonna crack. I need to get away from here for a little while. She decided. She pushed herself up and left the room lethargically. "Kan-kan!" She shouted.
"Yo!" Tony waved from the kitchen. "What's up Kon-kon?" He asked.
"I think I'm gonna go to that tournament! Is that okay?" Konata asked as she entered the kitchen to see Tony with a slightly larger bag than the day before and his ornate obsidian blade at his side. Tony smiled and nodded.
"Absolutely. Hey, if you compete, you can let out some of that anger!" Tony laughed. Konata smiled.
"I'd like that. Okay then, it's settled! You and I are going to dominate at the tournament in Lohan!" Konata cheered. Tony smiled to see Konata happy again. Something caught Konata's eye. "Kan-kan, you get a ring?" She asked.
"Yeah!" He showed her the ring on his right ring finger he had gotten from the vendor. "I picked it up while you were in the room." He smiled. Konata took a closer look and Tony knew what she had seen. "Remind you of anything?" He asked.
"Other than what's written inside, this is almost exactly like Itachi Uchiha's ring." Konata commented. Tony laughed.
"Yep! He's my favorite Naruto character." Tony smiled, completely ignoring the fact that he knew Naruto himself.
"How much it run ya?" Konata asked.
"About 75,000 yen." Tony said.
"Holy Haruhi. That's not a bad deal for this quality, but still. How much money did you get from the tournament that you can just spend that much?" Konata asked.
"It was a hefty amount Kon-kon, that's not all I got either." Tony smiled. Konata cocked her head to the side quizzically.
"What else?" She asked.
"I'll show ya later." Tony said. They heard a beep from outside the house. "That must be our ride, what are you gonna use for a weapon?" Tony asked. Konata hummed.
"There are a couple weapons from my training days at my house! Think we have time to get them?" Konata asked. Tony smirked and grabbed her arm. The sensation of overwhelming pressure took over their senses again for an instant. Soon as it was over, Konata almost doubled over. She looked around to see they were in her living room. Her father was missing, but Konata knew that he was probably in his room doing who knows what. She ran over to her room. Tony heard another beep from outside. He breathed, and apparated to his house. Quickly, he ran into his training room and changed into weighted clothing. If they were using weapons, he could use the protection the clothes would provide. He sighed and went back to see Konata had yet to leave her room. Konata was a few more seconds before she came out in her cheongsam. Tony smiled.
"So where are the weapons?" He asked. Konata smiled a bit wider. She suddenly had two butterfly knives, one in each hand.
"This good?" She smirked.
"Sure, if that's whatcha want." Tony smiled. Konata cheered and ran over. "You ready?"
"Mhm!" Konata took a stance with her knives.
"Well then let's go!" Tony cheered. He grabbed Konata's arm again and they were back inside Tony's door. Konata noticed that she didn't have as much of a reaction this time.
I must be getting use to it... Konata smiled. Tony breathed again, tired from the constant and heavy use of his energy. He felt fortunate that he would get several hours rest before he would have to fight. The two walked out the door and saw Miki in the car, waving. She gave a confused look at Konata until the two got up to her.
"She'll be accompanying us, if that's okay." Tony said.
"Fine with me..." Miki commented. She motioned for Tony to come closer to her. He complied while Konata walked around to the other side of the car. "Did you see Kagami?" She asked in a whisper.
"Yeah, she came. Konata just needs some time away from her, that's all." Tony said. "I'm sure that she'll be okay. Why?" Tony asked.
"She told me. I know Kagami has feelings for Konata, and I approve. She called last night and said she... did something very bad." Miki said.
"Very true, she laughed in Konata's face when she confessed. You don't get much worse than that." Tony almost spat. Miki sighed.
"I understand why you're so angry. Please, don't hate her though. She's truly sorry." Miki said. Tony sighed.
"Yes. I know. But let's put such thoughts behind us. We have a tournament we're gonna miss." Tony smiled. Miki smiled as well.
"That we do." Tony walked around and took a seat in the back next to Konata.
"Through the park Bitterman, you know how I love the park." Tony sort of shooed the air in front of him. Miki and Konata laughed. Tony, content that he had gotten a laugh from his reference, decided to risk talking to Hachiman again. He decided he would apologize for his presumptuous behavior and hope Hachiman would forgive him. Before he could summon the god, however, he felt the familiar presence of the being's consciousness brush against his. Tony opened his mind. Boss? I was just about to call ya! Tony said.
I know, I've been watchin' ya since yesterday. Kid, I'm sorry. I let my temper get the better of me. Hachiman apologized.
I was at fault as well Boss. I presumed myself more important than everyone else. I'll do my best to stop being so selfish. Tony thought. He felt a certain satisfaction radiating from the god.
Well, I'm glad to hear that. However, I still would like to apologize. So, you may ask any questions you wish. I shall answer to the best of my abilities. Nothing held back. Hachiman said. Tony smiled and pondered the possibilities.
Boss, how do you recharge your energy so quickly? Tony asked.
Straight to the point I see. That is a question with an answer both simple and not. Hachiman said.
A little more cryptic please, I might actually have understood that a little bit. Tony thought sarcastically.
You see, I merely convert matter into energy. You may not have realized, but there is a great amount of energy in even the smallest bits of matter. Take the atomic bomb, for example. How is the explosion created? Hachiman asked.
By splitting an atom... Damn, that's so simple! Why didn't I think of that? Tony scolded himself.
It's good that you did not. Very few beings, divine and otherwise, can withstand the sheer amount of energy released in such a reaction. Do you believe you could suppress an atomic explosion? The god asked.
*Sigh* No. Probably not. Tony sighed.
My point. Only under the very direst of circumstances, where the earth is at risk should you EVER attempt this technique. Maybe not even then. If you overdid it, you could destroy the earth by yourself. Trying something like this is incredibly dangerous, even if I were supervising you. Unless... Hachiman sounded like he had suddenly had a thought.
Unless...? Tony urged him to continue.
Unless I took you away from the earth. To somewhere where you couldn't do any harm if you did kill yourself. Or at least, no physical harm. Just know that if you were to fail and you died, there's a good chance that it would be permanent. No resurrection like with your mother. And that would mean Tsukasa and the rest of your friends would be forced to live without you again. Do not forget Tsukasa's past in particular. I don't think I need to tell you the implications if she lost someone she had gotten so very close to, even more so than Itsuwari. Hachiman warned.
Yeah... Tony felt fear grip him.
Her recent hospitalization has also weakened her body. If I may put it more bluntly, I have a feeling she wouldn't be far behind you. And my feelings are seldom wrong, if you catch my meaning. Hachiman said. Tony realized what the god was saying all too well. The immense feeling of dread that overtook him made coherent thought near impossible. It took him a moment to compose himself.
It's an incredibly powerful technique that, if I could master it, would prove invaluable as both a way of getting energy back and as a failsafe if I could contain it. Should I even attempt it though... Tony thought to himself once he could again think.
The decision is yours. Only know the gravity of what you'll be messing in. It's only because of your recently acquired strength of character and my promise that I have even deemed to talk about this to you. I know you will not consciously cause any unnecessary damage if you were to learn this. However, I also must warn you. If this power got out of control, it could very easily unravel the very fabric of space and time and destroy everything in the known and unknown cosmos. One ordinary man turned to raw, unrelenting energy could destroy metropolis' with ease. You, with your much greater then ordinary energy supply, could do much more damage. As I said, the earth could be at risk. Hachiman warned again.
Gotcha. I'll... think on this. Tony thought.
Very well. Anything else? Hachiman asked. Tony thought for a moment.
Did Amaterasu truly bless Tsukasa? Tony asked. He felt a feeling of amusement from the god.
Indeed she did. She taught her a song and gave her that stone. Hachiman said.
What does the stone do? Tony asked. He got the impression of a sigh.
That, I can honestly say, I do not know. All I can really tell ya is that if you need it, it will help. If you don't, it shouldn't harm you. Hachiman said. Tony snickered in his head.
I thought you knew everything. He said.
That's true, and not at the same time. Hachiman said. Tony sighed.
I really don't need an explanation for that one, I'll take your word for it. He deadpanned. Hachiman seemed to find this amusing, a laugh coming from his mind.
I understand, it's difficult for you to grasp the mind of a god. Sometimes, I don't entirely understand it myself! He said. Tony laughed in his mind.
So, I have another question for you. Tony said once he had calmed down and gotten more serious.
That being...? Hachiman asked.
Time. Had I sent Konata back in time, what would have happened? I have no intention of doing so, I'm sure Kagami will find a way to get Konata to forgive her by then anyway, but just a what if? Tony asked.
Ah, that. First, let me say that I'm extremely happy that you recognized your place in that. You realized that you were not wise enough to tamper with the Time Line, and for that, I congratulate you. As for you breaking down at the sight of her crying... Well, I understand. I hate seeing girls cry as much as you do. Hachiman chuckled. But to answer your question, I don't know. Time is too uncertain to predict like that, too many variables to count for to come even remotely close to a logical guess at what would have happened.
Makes sense. Tony smiled. Another thought occurred to him, one he hadn't thought of before. Hey Boss. You're a Shinto God, correct? He asked.
Of course. Hachiman said.
As is Amaterasu. Tony asked again.
She too. Hachiman said. Where are you going with this kid?
Well, I was wondering. Since you two and the rest undoubtedly exist, does that mean that Shintoism and Buddhism are the correct religions? Tony asked. Hachiman laughed hard.
I've absolutely no idea! It's just as likely not to be the case as it is TO be the case! We are patron Gods of Japan. It's the main religion here. It's entirely possible that elsewhere, there are other gods from the other religions. Perhaps there is a Zeus in Greece? Or there truly is a Shiva who will bring about the end of the world? None of this is known to us, and we're content without knowing. Doesn't mean we wouldn't fight tooth and nail to stop the end of the world, but all things will eventually end. I will. You will. In any case, don't worry so much about it. For all we know, there's a higher being named God who rules over us with an invisible hand. Do you have any more questions? Hachiman asked. Tony thought.
Can you teach me to sense energy? I really want to find the necklace I gave to Tsukasa, but it seems that's the only way to go about it. Tony said. Hachiman hummed.
Another time kid. Meanwhile, look in your pocket. Hachiman said. Tony stuck his hand in his pocket to feel something. He took it out and looked to see Tsukasa's amulet. I know that wasn't what you were expecting, but I hope it'll do.
Yes it will... Thank you. Tony smiled.
One thing though, if you put out your consciousness into a jewel and add energy, it'll act as a sort of energy bank. It's the first step to sensing energy as well. That gem in your ring, for example, is perfect. Hachiman said.
Thanks Boss. Tony said.
You're welcome. Anything else? Hachiman asked. Tony thought one last time.
You're not gonna kick my ass again in this tournament, are you? Tony asked. Hachiman laughed again.
I had not planned on it, no. Have fun kid. The god laughed, sensing Tony had no more questions.
I will. Thanks. Tony smiled.
No problem. Hachiman left his mind. Tony opened his eyes as the car was conveniently pulling into the town.
"Here we are! Lohan!" Miki chimed. Tony and Konata looked at each other.
This is gonna be fun. They both thought simultaneously.
POV Kagami
"If you love me, then you're gonna have to prove it." The words echoed in Kagami's head. She sighed away tears as she made her way back to her home.
She's right. How have I proven my love to her in the past? Well, first I need to start being more truthful around her, and in general. Especially about my feelings. Kagami sighed. She knew what she had to do. It would be several hours before she could enact her plan, but she knew she had to start somewhere. Dad. She sighed in fear. Fear of the man who could and probably would take her family away from her. However, there was no other way in Kagami's mind. She had to do this.
POV Tony
The three of them got out of the car.
"Oh, are you staying too Mrs. Hiiragi?" Tony asked. Miki giggled.
"Please, call me Mom." She smiled. Tony's eyes widened as a bit of a blush took to his face. Miki saw this and giggled again. "Well, I'm sure you have every intention of calling me that some day, so the way I see it, you're just not wasting any time like this!" She reasoned in front of him. He smiled.
"Thanks... Mom." Tony said. Calling someone Mom again. It felt good. It felt really, really good. He couldn't help but feel traitorous to his own mother though. He shook it all off and continued his query. "So you're staying?" He asked.
"Well~..." Miki brought out a recorder. "Tsukasa wanted me to tape it for her." She smiled. "What I'm worried about is you Konata." Miki turned to the smaller girl. She grinned back at the older woman.
"Why's that?" She asked.
"Well, you look rather small, I can't imagine you'll hold up very nicely against people who fight with weapons!" Miki said, worry evident in her voice. Konata smiled a warm smile.
"Thanks for caring, but I should be okay." Konata smiled as they made their way through the town. A merchant suddenly shouted at them from his place on a blanket.
"Hey, wanna buy a bottle!" He shouted. Tony chuckled.
"Maybe we should get a small token of our being here!" He laughed he walked over to the merchant. "How much is it?"
"This one's durable and the best quality you can get!" The merchant held out a bottle.
"How much?" Tony asked. The merchant grinned.
"... Surprise! It's a super bargain! How about 13,358,060,000,000 Yen?" He asked. Tony almost fainted.
"Yeah, no. Good luck with that." He muttered as they walked off. They heard the merchant yelling for them to come back, that it was a joke, but they ignored him and continued walking. They found an opening in which they entered to find themselves in a large ring. The three looked around when Konata noticed something. She looked up to see a couple strange animals running on the upper ring of the area. She giggled as they jumped over the gap that was the entry way.
"Kan-kan, what kinda animals are they?" Konata asked. Tony looked up just as they were running by again.
"I dunno, they aren't any kind of animal I know. They look like some kind of mouse or rat." Tony said. They walked around until they found a stand next to stairs.
"Hey, if any of you people out there are live fast, die young types and want to test your courage, step up and fill out the application! My advice to those of you who are feeble cowards or have cold feet, don't register. I guarantee you will die. So, you'll register now?" The attendant asked.
"I'll participate." Tony said.
"That's my man! And who will be participating?" The person asked. Tony scratched his head.
"Of course I am." He smiled.
"So am I." Konata smiled. The attendant leaned over the desk so that they could see the Otaku.
"Alright. When you are ready, go to the waiting room! We'll be waiting for you!" The person said.
"Thank you very much." Tony and Konata both bowed. They walked towards the stairs, where they stopped and turned to Miki.
"Good luck you two." She smiled.
"Thanks Mom..." Tony smiled. "I'll admit, I kind of wish Tsukasa was here to cheer me on..." He scratched his head. Miki giggled and handed him a phone. Confused, he put it to his ear.
"Good luck Kan-kun~!" He heard Tsukasa chime from the other end. Tony smiled much wider.
"Thanks Tsukasa, now I know I can win!" He cheered. Tsukasa giggled.
"Just don't come back too hurt, okay Kan-kun? I expect you to be able to take me on a date soon!" Tsukasa said. Tony chuckled.
"As you wish." He said.
"Bye-nii~!" Tsukasa chimed.
"Bye..." He squealed in his head. How on earth did I get such a cute girl? He wondered as he returned the phone to Miki. "Thank you."
"I figured you would want to talk to her before you fought." Miki smiled.
"You figured right." Tony smiled. "I guess we'd better get going." Tony said.
"Good luck. I'll watching from up there." Miki pointed to the stands.
"Thanks." Konata smiled. Tony stopped them on the stairs.
"Kon-kon, I don't want to see you die here. I don't doubt your abilities, but misfortune strikes even the most skilled fighters. May I put a spell on you that will stop you from dying?" Tony asked. Konata seemed to think it over.
"Well, I don't want to cheat, but I don't want to die either... I guess so. But try to make it only take effect if I'm really gonna die, alright?" Konata asked. Tony smiled and nodded.
"Agreed." He said. He put a hand to her forehead and started mumbling something about the air halting weapons when her health was in danger. He breathed and was silenced. "Done. Thank you." He smiled.
"Hey, I should be thanking you! I don't want me to die as much as you don't!" Konata chuckled. The two descended down the stairs as Miki walked to her seat and started the camera. Konata and Tony walked down the steps to hear yelling.
"WHAT? Old geezer, say that again!" A man in armor yelled, a staff with a large iron ball at the end it in his hand.
"Martial abilities mature along with the spirit. You have such an immature spirit. You are not a match for me." The old man said.
"ARG! I can't stand it anymore! I'll settle this with you here!" The armored man shouted, readying his weapon. With one punch from the old man, however, the man was flat on his back, unconscious. The old man rolled his arm.
"I told you so. You have to respect old people." He said. Another man in red armor walked past Tony and Konata.
"Haschel!" He shouted.
"Oh? Oh! It's you Dart!" Haschel exclaimed. Konata and Tony walked up.
"That was awesome!" Konata's eyes sparkled. It was rare she saw another martial artist. Let alone one who could knock someone out with one punch to an armored chest.
"Oh, are you other contestants?" Haschel turned to them. The nodded.
"Yeah! You're pretty strong." Konata complimented, looking at the unconscious dunce. Haschel looked at him as well.
"Well, I taught him some courtesy. That's all." He commented. While those two talked, Tony and Dart met.
"So you're a swordsman as well?" Tony smiled.
"Yeah, I look forward to fighting with you." Dart said. "That's an interesting blade you have." He pointed out. Tony drew his black sword.
"Forged it myself, gotta admit I'm proud of it." He smiled. He began describing the blade's composition and discussing such things with the fellow swordsman.
"So, have you ever entered any other tournaments?" Dart asked.
"Yeah, I entered one just recently, a World's Martial Arts tournament. You?" Tony asked.
"I entered this one a few years ago, while I was on a quest." Dart said.
"Ah. Mind me asking what the quest was?" Tony asked.
"Not at all! I was pursuing a monster that destroyed my home town. They killed my family and burned my home to the ground." Dart said in a grave tone. Tony sighed.
"I'm sorry to hear that. How did it turn out?" He asked.
"Turned out okay, I'd say." Dart said.
"If it's any consolation, my family was killed by a monster as well." Tony said.
"Have you found them yet?" Dart asked.
"No. I intend to though. And when I do, I will kill him in the longest, most excruciatingly painful way I can imagine." Tony said.
"If you need help, let me know." Dart offered. Tony smiled.
"Thanks buddy." He said. The man from upstairs came in.
"Gents! The time has come to decide the strongest in Japan! Enter the arena when you are ready!" He said. Dart looked back and clapped Tony on the arm.
"Good luck man." He said. Tony returned the gesture.
"You too." They walked out into the arena. After opening ceremonies, the matches were announced.
The First Match: Konata vs Gorgaga
Konata walked in and saw her first opponent. It was a large man with a bare chest and stomach, yet shoulder armor. He had a large, two-handed ax. Konata put a fist in her hand and put it in front of her, as if to display it. Then, she smiled as she drew her butterfly knives. She looked up to see Miki was recording. Konata winked and turned back to her opponent.
That must be something... Tony thought to himself.
"Eat this!" He shouted as he threw something green at her. Konata blinked, but suddenly felt very, VERY ill.
"Wh-what was that..." She coughed. She heard Dart from the side.
"Poison? A dirty trick!" He shouted.
He poisoned me? Damn, that's not good... Konata thought.
"Hee hee hee... Winning is winning." Gorgaga chuckled. Konata brought herself up and took her stance. The man ran up and swung, but Konata was angry at this person now. She used the back of her blade to stop the halberd in the air and swung at the man. Despite his size, he managed to dodge, as Konata's movements were slowed. Konata leaned in and twisted her knives around his halberd and flipped them, causing the weapon to be wretched from his hands. Angry, he swung his fist at her. Normally, this would have been child's play for Konata. But she was not normally poisoned. The chemical impeded her movements for an instant, causing her to take the punch. She was thrown onto her back, her knives almost leaving her grasp while Gorgaga ran over to his weapon. He picked it up and ran back over. Seeing he was back and regaining her functions again, she rolled on her back and locked her legs around one of his, bringing him down to a knee. On his way down, he swung his halberd down to try and win with one strike, but Konata brought the side of her blade and redirected her opponent's weapon into the ground. She took her other knife and brought the flat of it onto the man's neck, pushing him down onto the ground as well. She rolled on her back and latched her legs onto his back. From there, she brought both her blades back and held them against Gorgaga's throat.
"Gotcha." She said.
"Damn! You just wait!" He got up and ran away.
"And the winner is Konata Izumi!" Someone shouted. Konata coughed again and walked out, wondering how she won from the man simply running away.
I guess he forfeited... She stumbled out of the arena. Tony ran up to her and grabbed her by the arm. Suddenly, relief washed over Konata.
"That was a dirty trick he used. Are you okay?" Tony asked.
"Yeah, I think you got. Thanks a lot." Konata smiled up at him.
"No problem." He smiled back.
"Did your ward have to save me?" Konata asked. Tony shook his head.
"Nope. You had that one in the bag." Tony smiled. "I'm up next, wish me luck!" He waved.
"Luck!" Konata waved back. Tony rolled his eyes and chuckled.
Second Match: Tony Vs Serfius
Tony walked in to see a completely armored man. If Tony didn't know better, he'd say this sword wielding man was a medieval knight.
There are a lot of armored fighters here. I suppose against armed opponents, it's a reasonable precaution though. Tony thought. They both drew their swords and circled each other. Serfius ran up and swung his sword. Tony leaned back to dodge and swung his own blade. Serfius jumped back, but not before the blade cut across the armor on his stomach. Tony smiled. Since obsidian is harder than steel, and my blade is bolstered by diamond, I can cut right through his armor. Tony thought to himself. Serfius looked down at his armor and scowled, though his expression was hidden by his helmet. He ran up and struck again, but Tony brought the flat of his blade against his opponent's and let the sword follow the man's up his blade and hit him in the arm. Serfius jumped back again.
"Powerful, as I expected. Fine. I'll show you my swordsmanship." He braced down. He ran up and tried a downward slash. Tony breathed and gathered his strength.
I'll end this now! He thought. He swung with a good portion of his strength and sliced through the man's blade. Tony's sword continued and cut down the man's armor. It hit the ground and was stuck for an instant. Serfius looked terrified.
"Ahg! Too powerful..." He muttered. Tony pulled his sword out of the ground as he was announced winner. He stopped to wave at the crowd and left smiling.
I hope that'll impress Tsukasa! Tony smiled. He looked to see his sword was slightly damaged, even with the diamond core in it. He placed his hand over it. "Repair this blade." He muttered. As if a sentient being, the space around the blade shimmered as the blade rebuild itself. Tony rubbed his forehead and ate a bit of the dengen he had packed earlier. He decided he might as well try the technique Hachiman had told him of and felt the ring with his mind. He started transferring whatever extra energy he got from the energy food into the ruby of the ring. The energy seemed to remain a bit more subdued and stayed put. Tony moved his hand around and was satisfied to see the energy move with it. It wasn't much, in fact it was miniscule. But it was a start. Then Tony wondered where Konata was. He looked around the room to see her in conversation with Haschel. Tony smiled and looked out to see Dart was fighting. By the current fight, he looked like he was winning by no small advantage. What confused Tony was the fact that both fighters were standing still. One would run up and attack, but the recipient wouldn't dodge. A sword would slash through someone's chest, but there was no wound. Only a little "87" would pop up in mid air in front of them. After that, the attacker would run back to his original position. Then the recipient would run up and attack. Rinse and repeat. Finally, Dart's opponent ran away. Dart turned to both sides, waving, and walked out. "Nice fight Dart!" Tony waved.
"Thanks! You're very skilled, I remember fighting Serfius when I first entered this tournament. It took me a lot longer." Dart said.
"Thanks buddy." Tony smiled. Haschel walked past them.
"My turn!" He said as he walked out. Konata walked up beside the two to watch.
"I see you made a friend Kon-kon." Tony smiled.
"Yeah, he knows a lot about martial arts! It's not the same style, but he doesn't need weapons to fight." Konata smiled. Then it was as if something dawned on her. "Kan-kan, I'm sorry I missed your fight! How didja do?" She asked.
"I died." He said. Konata giggled.
"Oh really?" She asked sarcastically.
"This is a recording." He chuckled. Konata giggled again and looked out to watch her fellow martial artist.
"She your girlfriend?" Dart asked.
"Sister, actually." Tony smiled. They were interrupted by cheers of the crowd as Haschel walked back in. Tony looked at him, bewildered. "That was fast..." He commented.
"It was pretty awesome, you shoulda watched." Konata catgrinned to Tony.
"Haschel is very skilled in rogue style." Dart complimented as Konata walked out to her next fight.
"Apparently... Konata's pretty skilled too." Tony smiled as they looked out. He gulped as he saw Konata's opponent was a large, fat man, covered with armor almost as red as Dart's. He had a helmet with a spike on it. Tony looked back to see Haschel relaxing. "Don't you wanna watch?" He asked him.
"When she wins this match and I win my next one, then I'll see her fight." Haschel said without opening his eyes. Tony turned back to the arena.
Fifth Match: Konata vs Danton
Konata cracked her neck as she walked out. She looked up to see Miki recording.
I better not screw up. She thought as she looked to see her opponent had a large wooden mace. She made the same gesture she had made in the beginning of her first match. Konata drew her blades and smiled. The man waddled over slowly and swung his mace clumsily. Konata dodged easily enough and swung one of her own knives at him. It ricocheted off his armor and flew from Konata's hand. The man swung his mace again and caught Konata in the side, throwing her to the side. Her other knife was sent flying from her hand. She rolled on her shoulder and took her fighting stance. The man ran over and swung horizontally, but Konata jumped over the mace. She gathered her strength and punched his at him, but he moved back. Konata realized she was at a great reach disadvantage. She ducked under the man's legs, but was stopped as the man grabbed her by the hair. Just as Konata had hoped. He pulled her up to level with his face, quite a painful action indeed. She couldn't help but notice that this man had horrible breath. That aside, Konata reached out and took the man's helmet by the spike and tore it off. She brought the metal against the man's head, causing him to drop the girl. Konata fell onto her feet and kicked the man's knee from the side, breaking it. The man fell to a knee. Konata smiled as the man fell to level with her. She released rapid fire fisticuffs onto the man's face. He swung blindly, but Konata slid over to the side and continued from the side of his head. Finally, the man gave in and fell unconscious. Konata exhaled in exhaustion as the crowd roared. She looked up at Miki and winked again before gathering her weapons and leaving the arena.
"Konata, that was insane!" Tony scolded. "I thought he was gonna rip your hair out!" Tony said as he grasped Konata's arm and healed her again. He ate more dengen, his stomach growling in protest. Deciding to capitalize on probably one of his last time he would be able to eat the stuff, he ate half the bag and let the energy he got from it drain into his ring. He wouldn't be able to eat very much if anymore or it would come back up. What was worse was that he was next to fight. He looked into his ring to see quite a sizable amount of energy was now stored. Now all that was left was to not forget about it. He got up and walked out to see his next opponent was an archer. Konata and Dart watched from the side as Tony easily cut the arrows fired by the archer out of the air. Soon, Tony flash stepped forward and sliced the bow in half, ending the fight. After cheers from the audience, he walked back in.
"That was an awesome fight Kan-kan!" Konata cheered.
"Ah, so you watched this time, did ya?" Tony chuckled.
"Totally!" Konata smiled. "That time you cut his arrow down the middle was awesome!" Konata cheered.
"You are a very skilled swordsman." Dart smiled as he passed on his way out to fight. They watched as he swiftly disposed of his opponent and came back in.
"I really do look forward to our fight." Tony smiled.
"As do I." Dart smiled as Haschel walked out into the arena. After an impressive display of martial arts, he walked back, looking none the worse for wear.
"So, next is Tony vs. Dart, then it's me vs. you Haschel." Konata smiled.
"Indeed it is." Haschel smiled back.
"The real fights begin." Tony cheered.
POV Kagami
Kagami was sitting in the living room. Her sisters had gone to visit Tsukasa and she knew her father was expecting she would be as well. She figured in a few hours when her father got off work, he would come home to change and then follow suit. However, he would find Kagami there. And she would ask him to call her sisters home. And she would tell him. Everything.
I love you Konata, and this is my proof. Kagami sat determined. She knew what she was doing. She knew her father would probably disown her. But that would only serve to prove her love. If her father really loved her, he would accept her. If not, so be it. Maybe I'll call Mom and ask if she got to talk to Dad. Kagami wondered. In either case, at the end of the day, her father would know her feelings. Let his judgment be made.
Luckier Channel
"Luckier~! Channel~!" Akira shouted. "Hiya Luckies! I'm Akira Kogami, your navigator!"
"And I'm Minoru Shiriashi, the assistant!" Minoru bowed.
"Minoru, did you have a nice day off?" Akira asked.
"Shouldn't you know?" Minoru asked.
"M-... Well, I guess so, but you still need to tell the readers!" Akira said.
"We went to see Beauty and the Beast in 3D!" Minoru said.
"It was fantastic! I loved it! I laughed, I cried, I laughed more! I think I farted once..." Akira reminisced.
"Um, Akira..." Minoru mumbled uncomfortably. Akira looked at him and realized why he was uncomfortable. In not two lines, she had forgotten that she was live.
"Oh! Um..." She started thinking of something to say.
*Music Tone*
"Well, I guess that's all the time we have for today! I'll see you all next chapter! Bye nii~!"
"..."
"That was close!" Akira said.
"Yeah, that was quite a slip there Akira..." Minoru commented.
"I forgot we weren't in private, we've had a couple days off..."
"Yeah..."
*End*
Aftersection
Due to popular request, I am, in fact, writing a Valentine's Day one-shot. I know that I'm a little late, but most of the requests came in via PM on Valentine's Day itself, I ended up getting started at something like eight at night! So hopefully I can come out with it soon! This chapter didn't get nearly what I wanted done, so I should be able to get the next chapter out quickly, I'm confident of where it's gonna end already. I also started reader Smusher6's "Lucky Temptations" today as well! I really like it so far, I'm gonna have to review it when I get the chance. Unfortunately, my time is running out for today. I'll see if I can't review every chapter, I know I'm horrible with that though. Anyway, a big thank you to Flygon Master! And wish me luck in the next chapter! Review!