DnKs Girls: A banner and a shrine, for me? Major blush.. aww.. come on girls, ya going to swell my head bigger than it already is.. LOL. You guys are such great writers too! Yes, Fuji is a nice caring boyfriend and I'm very happy that you think the story is lovely. Pause to look at bones poking through fingertips...

Yoshikochan: Become a novelist? Maybe one day.. Yeah, I like to have fun with characters powers and the scenes in the anime itself certainly does lean towards the players having unearthly powers! There will be more be more Taka-san angst as he copes with his feelings. This chapter just starts to touch the big game as there is a lot of background stuff going on and you will get to see Tezuka holding Fuji again!

Alaena Flame Dragonstar: Yes, the curse spear is still very much stuck in Tezuka's shoulder and still spreading its poison. Aion has his suspicions about his ally being a dragon, he just doesn't know which dragon.

Kagome Girl 21: More for you to enjoy!

Analine: Glad you enjoyed seeing Gakuto and Yuushi together and Fuji loves Tezuka so much he is willing to put his life on the line. Kawamura has feelings for Fuji and it will be a bittersweet confession.

Tristipe: I fully understand busy! Most of these chapters have been written well into the night! As for the traitor, he is a dragon and he has been well descibed in previous chapter. Aion has indeed noticed Yuuta .. the word "pawn" springs to mind.. Although he has noticed Tezuka is full of 'Blood' powers, he still hasn't discovered the secret. He had planned an attack, but it has been thwarted, as you will see..

Ruji: I noticed when watching the anime there were a lot of trees surrounding the tennis grounds, so adding some heavy undergrowth was easy!

Eien No Kaze: Sakaki is your typical been there, done that bored rich guy and being a prince makes him even more obnoxious. However, he will be changing his tune...

Loanshark: Happy you enjoyed the previous chapter. Atobe now has mixed feelings about his match with Tezuka.

Important character note: In the anime, Atobe was mean and certainly arrogant towards Tezuka during the match. But in this story, his behaviour has been some what altered. After all, Tezuka did save his life.

Disclaimer: WAAAAA! Prince Of Tennis is still not mine and Mythics belong to themselves.

Rebounding Echo's

Chapter 6

Story: Tora Macaw.

.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

Raising an eyebrow in response to Tezuka's words, Kabaji started to lead the way back to the match. But the pair had only taken a few steps, when they suddenly found themselves confronted by a scowling Yuuta. Dolphin hide eyes repeatedly flickered between his brother's pale face and Tezuka's own, clearly demanding an explanation as an uneasy silence fell over the little group.

Coughing into his fist, Kabaji rolled his eyes before opening his mind. ' I WOULD start TALKING If I were you sire.'

A single, firm nod was followed by Tezuka momentarily clutching his burden to him and for a fleeting moment the ancient bronze dragon caught an expression of.. tenderness? Or perhaps it was merely concern. Whatever it was, it may as well had never existed as the stern look he knew so well swiftly returned to dominate his face.

" Yuuta, your brother willingly helped me."

" I'm aware of that." the younger 'Blood' answered in a tight, controlled voice as he studied the blue-white aura surrounding the Seigaku captain. " What I don't approve of is the amount of power he's given you to leave him in this state."

Hazel-gold orbs briefly closed, then flashed with authority as Tezuka's gaze locked onto the furious 'Blood's'.

" Syusuke has power he hasn't even tapped yet" he said in a matter-of-fact tone. " He will recover soon."

Stepping closer, Yuuta held up his right hand; the limb glowing with a dull grey light as his fingers lightly dragged across his sibling's brow. With a low moan, the youth in Tezuka's arms stirred feebly then slowly opened his eyes. Shaking from the effort of reviving his brother, the younger Fuji sagged to his knees; his breath rasping in and out as though from running.

But in a great show of his own strength, Yuuta was already standing by the time Tezuka had carefully set the Tensai down and after a minute of reassuring each other of their well being, the group set off for the courts; pointedly ignoring the close proximity of their fascinated audience.

Crouched on his tree limb, Aion smirked over at his own watcher then turned his full attention to the little scene he had just witnessed. " The gold was half dead.." he thought as he leaned back to stare at the distant clouds. ".. but now he reeks of 'Blood' and Kirin energy! This is certainly an extraordinary turn of events. But how was such energy passed?" Standing, he casually strolled up and down his branch as his mind pondered this new and as yet unexplained phenomena. " I will find out. Perhaps the younger 'Blood'..." Stopping half way along he withdrew his right hand from his coat pocket, flipped a cheerful wave at a half human form Takashi observing him from a nearby pine then sat down; his legs dangling on either side of his perch as a cunning smile curved his lips. " Yes, ex lord dragon." he smirked as Tezuka and company rejoined their team. " It's your turn to play, and I'm most eager to see how you handle not being able to be a dragon!"

.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

A second pair of eyes watched just as intently as Tezuka reappeared; then went to fetch his racket and rubbing his chin, Sakaki's thoughts proceeded to run along similar lines to Aion's. " Ten minutes ago he looked ready to drop, but now... Hmm.. that blue aura again. It's very much like the 'Blood's'. The 'Blood'. I wonder..." Shifting his gaze to Fuji, a sudden movement at the camphor tree caught his full attention. Stern brown orbs narrowed at the sight of two other demons joining their ruler, then he swung about to observe Kabaji as the ancient bronze sent out a special call for assistance. " So you call for your kind. Well, I can handle any attacks on my own." he frowned to himself as some silent replies buzzed through the warm air. " And... I wont stop the dragon's from gathering so they can see the gold finally fall with their own eyes."

.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

Feeling tired, Fuji sat down on arrival; only to have Inui pounce on him and urgently shove a juice bottle in his hand. Smiling, the Tensai drank then five seconds later he was on his feet and looking as if he were enthusiastically about to embark on a ten kilometer run. Satisfied the older 'Blood' was fine, the Basilisk smirked at Yuuta's frantic refusal to try it, seemed rather disappointed when Tezuka wouldn't even so much as look at it, then turned his attention to the other side of the battle field where a high ranking royal Hikari calmly spoke to his underling.

Sitting comfortably, his right knee crossed over his left as his right hand rested on his thigh, Sakaki addressed an attentive Atobe. Motionless, the silver-haired player stood in a relaxed posture; his racket on his right shoulder, his left hand pushed into his pocket. Invoking his second sight, Inui took in the way his unseen wings kept up a slow paced opening and closing in a manner much like that of a resting butterfly. " Tezuka.." he thought as he gazed back his captain. "... I don't like this."

.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.

" It seems the gold has made a remarkable recovery." purred Sakaki as he stared straight into Atobe's eyes. " So he wont be as easy to beat as I thought. He may even be able to use his telekinesis against you, so be cautious. Block him if you have to."

Atobe's brow furrowed. " I wont block him. I'll play him my own way, because of how he saved me."

" Saved you?" came the stern reply. " He may have saved you from imprisonment, but not from me." Leaning forward, he held the younger Hikari with the icy grip of his gaze. " May I remind you that I practically own you... all of you! And if I tell you to contain his power, then you will obey! Otherwise, you will no longer be fit to be captain. Is that understood?"

" Perfectly." the word was spat like a curse as hung his head to hide his anger. " I wont lose."

"Make sure you don't." Growled Sakaki as he waved his left hand toward the towering camphor. " And just so you know, our audience has company."

Atobe's head shot up. " Then we have a problem."

Gazing at him, an arrogant sneer crossed the regal Hikari's face. " My orders are thus; ignore him."

" Then pray he doesn't attack!" spat the youth as he furiously swung his racket, then showed the prince his back. Gazing across the court, his eyes sought out his opponent. " I don't know how you can be so strong while cursed Tezuka." he thought as he watched the Seigaku captain enter the battle field. " But with Aion having company, I'm glad of it."

.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

Standing beside Inui, Eiji suddenly picked up the scents of several mythics drifting on the light breeze. Swinging about, he noticed many red uniforms and wasted no time in pointing them out to his team mates.

" Rokkaku." said Inui has he pushed at his glasses. " No doubt here due to Kabaji."

" Well I'm thankful they came." remarked Oishi. " With Tezuka's powers suppressed and Aion lurking about, the Brotherhood must band together."

'And that is exactly why we have come Moon Dog.' came the voice of Aoi Kentarou to all the minds of those able to hear.

Nodding his thanks to the raven-haired Hikari, Oishi then noticed the green and gold colours of Yamabuki covering the bleachers to their right.

' We're with you too.' said a cheerful Sengoku, earning his team a grateful thanks.

Eying the swelling crowd of Mythics, Inuoe indicated to Shiba the Rikki team just entering the back of grounds. "Look there. Kirihara, the crossbreed. Yagyu, the white serpent. Sanada.. the mystery."

" Mystery?" asked the bright eyed Hikari woman as she gazed over at the cap wearing teenager. For several long minutes she stared hard at the young man then almost dropped her camera as she gasped in surprise.

" Do you see it?" Inuoe softly inquired.

" More like I don't see it." was the instant reply as Shiba turned to look into her work partner's dark eyes. " He IS a mythic, no doubt about that. But what?" Shaking her head, she declared her complete failure to see.

" What." remarked her friend thoughtfully " Now that is a very good question. Truth is, no one... not even the gold.. knows what he is."

" Really?" said Shiba as determined sparks flashed in her eyes. Camera twitching in her grasp, her reporters instincts shot to the surface accompanied by her low pitched murmur of; " Well, I will just have to find out!"

.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

Deciding to act as a rear guard, Ryuzaki moved to the back of the group; allowing Ryoma a rare opportunity to sit in the coaches seat court side. Her excuse had been to keep a closer eye on Aion; but the real reason had been that she strongly felt the young Demi-Dragon should stay close to his grandfather at this time. " After all.." she thought as she gazed down on them. "... despite his many subjects, Echizen is the only family he truly has."

Around the court, many eyes watched as Tezuka stood beside the raven-haired singles star. While the members of Rokkaku and Rikkai were tense, Yamabuki were just a little more relaxed as they settled in. Young Dan however was a nervous wreck as he clutched at his green head band and kept shooting terrified glances toward Aion's hiding place. Gently calling him to sit down, Sengoku's promise to protect him finally settled him but he wished with all his heart that Akutsu was present as he fearfully fixed his attention on the gold.

Leaning forward, Kirihara rubbed his hands together in his eagerness to see the game start. Beside him, Sanada wondered just how on earth Tezuka could still be alive.

Drawing a deep breath, Shiba lowered her camera as she felt the screaming tension in the air. " This atmosphere.. it's horrible! Inoue, what if Tezkua collapses or Aion's forces attack? With all these humans here, it will be a disaster!"

Nodding, Inoue worked up a gentle smile. " Have faith in the dragon king and with so many mythics present, I feel he may not move. Look at the crowd, they are ready for anything." Gazing off toward team Rikkai, the demon suddenly grew tense. " Shiba.. do you..feel that?"

" Yes." she answered at once as her eyes grew big and round. " An incredible energy. But who.." she gasped as a thought occurred to her. " Could be?" Trailing off, she stared at a brooding Sanada as she silently vowed to find out.

From in his tree, Aion also felt it and had to fight an urge to swoop down for a closer look. " I know that energy!" he thought jubilantly as his eyes swept the crowd. " First Demi-Dragon.. I know you are here.. and I will find you." Turning to his generals, he swiftly gave his orders.

Racket tucked under his right arm, Atobe glanced briefly in Ryoma's direction before turning to face his team mates. " So, I'm starting my game. Keep a close watch on Aion and be ready to fight if need be." Without waiting for an answer, he turned to meet his destiny. Walking out with a slow, measured tread he faced Tezuka as the regal youth stood waiting on his base line.

'I wont hold back. This will be a true battle between us.'

' I would be deeply insulted if you did.' came the proud reply as golden-brown hair stirred in the light breeze.

Atobe gave his adversary a very slight bow of his head to show his respect without being obvious. ' I would never insult you.'

' Then let us play.'

Trembling in anticipation, Inuoe leaned down; his voice leaving him in a hoarse whisper of pure excitement. " Can you feel it Shiba? They send between themselves and see only each other. They'll fight with every ounce of power they posess! But, I fear it will go hard on the dragon lord.."

That very dragon in his human disguise closed; then opened his eyes as he thought to himself. " Thank you Fuji. It's only because of you and the Kirin Jiroh, I can do this."

Staring in silence, Atobe hoped Tezuka wasn't about to kill himself. " We need you." he thought quietly. " We all need you."

From his place on the coaches bench, Ryoma glared with distaste over the coming contest. ' I don't like this grandfather. It's wrong.'

Hazel-gold eyes briefly flickered in his direction. ' Echizen..'

Gazing down from her place in the back row, Ryuzaki then lifted her face toward the top most branches of a great tree. " Aion is up there, like a vulture waiting for you to fall. Be careful my king."

A horrible kind of tension, like that of an approaching hurricane settled over the crowd to lay as a thick, stifling blanket and even the wind had dropped as all of nature suddenly held its breath. In the near perfect silence, a sound like the whispered wing beats of bats rang out causing a thrill of fear to lance through those able to hear it. Takashi returned to stand at Ryuzaki's side to deliver the terrible news she already knew. Aion's hunters had moved in and the place was completely surrounded.

.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.

Sensing the presence of so many Lyrium almost caused Tezuka's fighting instincts to break and predicting an immanent brake down of discipline among his subjects, Atobe decided now would be a good time to draw everyone's full attention onto himself. Sending a quick apology, the young Hikari kicked into overdrive to become the most arrogant way he could muster.

" Hey Tezuka!" he called scornfully. " Your hands are strong aren't they? Yes, I see it! Your grip is good!"

Dropping his shields in a way that every mythic present would be able to see his true form, Atobe tossed his head then strutted forward as his team mates took their cue. A loud chant of "Hyotei! Hyotei!" rang out and soon swelled to a great volume as those grateful for the distraction joined in.

Lifting his left wing, Atobe also raised his left hand. Index finger pointing up, the chant instantly changed. " Atobe! Atobe!"

His wing extending from his body, he then held his arm horizontal as the chant turned again. " Hyotei wins! Hyotei wins!"

'See Tezuka?' he mind sent as the chanting rose to a loud roar. 'I've averted a disaster. As long as those Dark Hunters keep back, everyone will forget they are there!'

Taking a quick look around, Tezuka was fast to notice they were indeed keeping their distance and a few silent reports from various dragons confirmed it.

'Tezuka..' said Atobe as he stood still, eyes closed and racket held before him; the crowds chant changing to " Atobe wins!" at the cue. ' Show yourself to them! Show them..why you are STILL their king!'

Wondering what on earth was possessing him to even remotely think of agreeing, Tezuka found himself nodding as his power carefully rose. To the chanting mythics, a great golden dragon suddenly appeared to hang over the court as a mighty ghost magnificent to behold. Standing on its hind legs, the majestic creature lashed its tail, as it showed its teeth. But although in awe of its great strength, many were quick to notice the paleness of his scales and the fact that only his right wing could move as the left seemed to stay glued to his back.

Flinging both wings and arms out, Atobe stood out stretched as he called the crowds attention once more.

" Hyotei wins! Atobe wins! Hyotei wins! Atobe wins!"

Letting his shadow form fade, Tezuka was content to just stand and watch as Atobe wound up his noisy self introduction. Then with a click of his fingers, an instant silence fell.

High above them, Aion sneered at the blantent display then almost drooled over the dragon king's terrible weakness. " The time is now. Gold.. your life, is mine!" A sudden sound nearby jerked him from his glee, drawing a savage snarl from his throat as he turned around.

Unzipping his coat, Atobe swiftly shed the garment to hold it high above his head. Catching the breeze, it fluttered like a victory banner before he let go. A movement among the surrounding trees caught his unearthly eyes and steadying his gaze, he gasped at the circle of Thleerum that had formed up to barricade the stalking Dark Hunters. Tezuka along with every other aware of Aion's forces, also noticed their presence and the knife edge tension dropped somewhat at the sight of so many powerful protectors.

Perched in a large tree directly opposite the net and right in the center of his little army, Tachibana raised his right arm then grinned as his mind voice spoke only to the on court warriors. ' I bought along a few friends to watch, so don't disappoint us!'

Hazel-gold and fog grey orbs momentarily closed as the pair sent a silent thank you while a little way back from the battle ground, Aion seethed with rage at the larger demons brazen challenge to his hunters. " Curse that Tachibana and Shinji! " turning to one of his generals, Aion ordered a full stand down. " But.." he cautioned " No one is to leave. Keep the perimeter surrounded. We.." he paused to sneer at the crowd. ".. have an element of fear to maintain."

With the threat of an immanent attack averted, Atobe knew they were now safe to get down to the serious business of playing tennis and striding toward the net, he boldly announced; " I won."

Despite himself, Tezuka worked up the smallest ghost of a smile at the boast as the pair touched knuckles over the net; and received his next big surprise of the day as a small amount of strong healing energy from his adversary flowed into him.

' Sakaki will punish me for this..' said Atobe seriously as they parted from the brief contact, ' .. but it's the least I can do to repay you for our lives.'

'Aaah.. I thank you, but know this Hikari, I'm not suffering for your sworn charges.'

The Hyotei youth was thunderstruck. " Not suffering for.. " he wondered, his eyes going round at this startling revelation as he stared at Tezuka's back in a state of disbelief. " ... then, if not for Jiroh..who..?" Then like a bolt of lightening it hit him as his roving eyes fell on Fuji. " For the 'Blood'? You have a Draca's Mortis Caveat lodged in your shoulder..for a human? In the name of the celestials, why throw your life away for a human?" Thoughts of the 'Blood' prophecy he had once heard of abruptly welled up from the depths of his mind, causing a humourless smirk to cross his features as it all became clear. " For a human. I see." Shrugging, he turned for his own base line. " It could only be love. HA! You idiot. No human is worthy of a dragon's care, even if it is him"

Up near the back of the crowd, Kirihara cast a quick eye on the Thleerum warriors then fixed his eyes on the little scene below. Eyes enlarging, he blinked in amazement, then pointed. " Will you look at that! The Hikari is actually helping him!"

Sitting just behind the draca-demon, Sanada pressed his index and middle fingers to his brow as he secretly sent his own energy wave forth to aid the stricken gold. " So he should. It's because of his Kirin, Tezuka is in this mess."

" No" murmured Yagyu at his side. " I feel it runs much deeper than that.."

Eagerly leaning forward, sparks lit up Sengoku's azure orbs as he cast a quick glance at the contained conflict within the tree tops before cheerfully speaking to a trembling Dan. " It's pleasing to see him aiding the gold. It will be an honourable game but Atobe wont go easy. Ah hatchling!" Playfully slapping the black-haired youth beside him between his shoulder blades, the flame-haired angel then lightly stroked the back of his neck. " See it now! The true bond between Hikari and dragon that Raidon can't break. That prince." he growled, slurring the word into an insult as he glared. " He shames us all taking over as the Hyotei coach and driving them to win at all costs. Yes, he and Raidon both. They are not fit to call themselves rulers."

" Even the humans have their tyrants Sengoku." reminded Muromachi from his place on Dan's other side. " Sadly, we are no different."

For a moment, the Yamabuki vice-captain considered the words, nodded gravely then went back to discussing the match. " Today Dan, they fight as equals, as humans. Now which of them will be strongest?" Lifting his eyes once more to the rustling leaves, he fell silent as he carefully noted the positions of the crouching hunters and the warriors blocking them.

Seeing the pair touch knuckles then depart the net for the baselines, Ryoma's hard stare followed Tezuka while behind him, his classmates spoke worriedly.

" What is that Hikari doing?" fretted Kachiro

" I wish I knew." muttered Katsuo fearfully. " It could be bad."

" Inui sempei." asked a concerned Horio " Could he be hurting him more?"

Giving his glasses a little push, the old Basilisk carefully studied the invisible aura surrounding his captain. A blue mist interlaced with white cloud and gold flashes pulsed around him, then a faint trace of black and gold rippled fog appeared to curl itself into a perfect, undetected infusion with the combined 'Blood', Kirin and Hikari powers. " Cleverly done.. whoever you are." thought Inui as he stared up at the watching Thleerum. " But if it's not one of you..." letting the matter drop, he spoke out loud to answer the young Tanuki. " No. Not hurting. He is helping."

The sound of the linesman speaking instantly drew everyone's full attention as he announced for the match to begin and in that incredible moment, speculation, danger, fear; it was all pushed aside, forgotten. Only the knights about to joust with ball and string mattered now as great acclaim swiftly rose, then fell to fade into anticipated silence as Atobe threw the little round object high.

In a whip like blur of movement, his racket whistled up to meet the slowly falling ball then with a fearsome crack it flew with grim determination towards it's waiting target. But before it had even touched the hard ground, Tezuka was moving. Balancing his weight on his left foot as it slid before his right, he met Atobe's challenge with a powerful backhand that sent it flying for home.

Taking three small steps back, Atobe answered the unspoken taunt in kind as he bent at the hips; his legs braced shoulder width apart to whack the missile with a devastating forehand. Elbow rising before his face as he followed through, he grinned at Tezuka's silent comment. ' Strong serve.'

'Strong return.' came the instant reply. ' But lets see how you deal...WITH THIS!'

The ball had flown high, causing Tezuka to run along the base line and hitting a hard forehand, he too sent it sailing for the clouds. Eyes narrowing, Atobe watched it fall, bounce, then he was on it in a flash. Gripping his weapon in both hands, he powered his return. Flying in a perfectly straight trajectory, the missile plowed directly into the top of the net, flipped up in a mocking salute then dropped to the ground. Sprinting like a hare, Tezuka charged in; his racket held flat before him to catch the offending ball then neatly pop it back over.

' Impressive.' Smirked Atobe as he galloped in for the kill. Leaping straight up, his ginning face reflected in Tezuka's eyes then his arm swung forward. With a sound like a thunder clap the ball cracked off his racket to smash without mercy against the weapon of his opponent. Gritting his teeth, Tezuka caught the ball; but a spasm of pain lanced down his arm from his shoulder, causing his grip to falter and those few vital seconds, he lost control of his muscles. Unable to hold it, his racket sailed out of his hand from the impact to fall upright on its "head", spin a few times then fall with a great clatter.

" 15 love!" called the linesman as Atobe raised his first and second fingers to his brow.

' So you look at me with your second sight.' remarked Tezuka dryly. ' Tell me, what do you see?'

' I see a dragon fighting to live.' came the concerned reply as he eyes briefly flickered torwards the trees. ' But I know how you wish to continue.' Turning to face the crowd, he raised his voice to its arrogant best. " Be in awe of Ore Sama's splendid skills."

Chanting his name, the crowd roared its approval.

Folding his arms, Nitobe tuttered as he sadly shook his head. " If the gold wasn't cursed, he wouldn't got away with that."

Snorting, the young Hikari's bond dragon watched his king with glittering eyes. " And I still say even with the curse the mighty one will win!" he declared with absolute certainty. " Look at power around him! But that Atobe! He maybe the great bronze's Hikari, but I so want to..." pushing to his feet, Kita lifted both arms; his elbows bent as he held his hands upward. " Look at me!" he snarked in his best Atobe-like tone. " Look at my beautiful skills! Huh! Such a flamboyant creature. Maybe I'll roll him in a mud patch, then he wont stick his perky nose up at anyone!"

Sengoku's eyes widened as a vision of the Hyotei prima donna dripping with slimy brown goo hovered phantom like before him and mastering his urge to laugh, he settled down to watch the next serve.

Off to one side of Yamabuki, Yanagisana frowned as he turned to speak the 'Blood' at his side.

" Yuuta, is it good for him to be so confident? The strain he is under.."

" He flows with my brother's own strength." the youth answered grimly. " But I don't know for how long."

' Yuuta.' Syusuke's mind voice was incredibly gentle. ' Tezuka not only has my power, but some of Jiroh's and even a little of Atobe's. His spirit is strong and he will win.'

' Brother Syusuke..that's what's bothering me. You can't give him more and both of you know it!'

But the older Fuji's only acknowledgement to the subtle warning was to cock his head to one side and give his sibling a serene smile.

Closely watching his opponent, Atobe wondered if Tezuka's borrowed power was already ebbing as he spied on the dragon's panting shadow form. 'Gold, you can end this with a single word. Why must you see it through?'

' It was a nice drop shot.' came the evasive reply has he neatly side stepped the question by returning to the base line. ' Now serve.'

Knowing it was pointless to argue, Atobe sent a savage ball howling across the net and with a mighty fore hand, Tezuka swiftly returned it. Fore hand from Atobe was followed by back hand from Tezuka. Sprinting up the base line, the silver-haired youth set himself for a back hand, then struck with a resounding crack.

His large azure eyes never leaving Tezuka's face, Sengoku nodded his admiration as the Gorgon beside him spoke up.

" The gold is playing well despite the curse and the company."

Gasping as Tezuka almost missed his return shot, Dan trembled as he peeked out from the barrier of his file. Straightening his back, Sengoku gave the black hatchling a reassuring smile as his arms folded. " Oh yes, he isn't king for nothing!"

Voicing a low hum, Nitobe added his own comments. " Atobe. His family were once respected nobles and mighty warriors."

" And look at how he still thinks he's nobility." snorted Kita scornfully. " He really needs to get over himself."

Leaping to his feet, Dan frantically waved his arms before the astonished pair.

" No! No! No! Nitobe and Kita sempei's! You are both Hikari and dragon and you shouldn't say such things!"

" Oh yes." Sengoku all but purred as he held up an imperious finger. " If he hears you slurring his heritage, he'll get you!"

" But it's the truth right?" said Nitobe curtly. " His family disgraced themselves by his ancestor.."

" I really do advise you.." cut in Sengoku cheerfully "... to stop talking about or he will definitely hear you, and come next game against him, he will make you wish you had never been born." Folding his arms, his fellow Hikari huffed with annoyance as Sengoku stared intently. " Hmmm... he is making no secret of the fact he is using his second sight."

" I'm having trouble seeing." muttered Dan. Fingers pointing to his own eyes, his elder brethren pushed his face within inches of the startled youngsters. Voicing a high pitched "EEP!" the raven-haired child ducked behind the safety of his file, then fixed the older dragon with a baleful glare as Kita spoke.

" You are still too young to see past such shields yolk crawler, so concentrate hard!"

Laying a gentle hand on his shoulder, Nitobe helped the young one to "see".

" Look now dragon child." he softly murmured. " Can you see your lord's true self?"

" Yes." replied Dan sadly after a moments hesitation. " He looks... so sick.."

.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

" Playing tennis under a curse and lurking hunters. I don't like it."

Inui's deep voice floated over his team mates to bring to light the thoughts of all as Tezuka hit a shot straight into the top of the net, then skipped its way over. Twin orbs of glowing cerulean peeled open to glare fiercely as Atobe rushed in, dropped to one knee, then hit a perfect back hand. As the fall flew high, Tezuka shot up like an uncoiled spring; his glasses glowing as they reflected his inner power as met the attack with defiance.

" Well done Tezuka." Oishi encouraged. " Smash it back at him! Use a drop volley!"

Lips curving in a superior smirk, Atobe collected the offending ball with a double grip back hand.

" No way!" yowled Eiji in self righteous wrath as the green and white object returned to his captain. " He hit it back!"

" Hoi! Hoi! " thought Momo' as his purple eyes glittered. " Your over doing it Tezuka! Watch out for the jack knife shot!"

His own eyes fixed in the flying ball, Kirihara rubbed his chin as he remarked to his brooding companion; " Tezuka is slowly weakening."

" No." rumbled Sanada as the Seigaku youth struck a strong fore hand just shy of the trammel lines. " It's too soon."

Racket held before him like a sword, Atobe sprinted for a back hand pick up and with the ball reflected in his glasses, Tezuka waited near the left corner of the base line; his feet braced shoulder width apart as he returned it with a sharp blow. A new tension settled on the crowd, the mass of humans and mythics alike scarcely daring to breath as the Hyotei captain scooped the falling ball. Fixing Tezuka with the force of his second sight, the Shining cloud Hikari's surprised in take of air cut the thick atmosphere as observed a funnel of blue and white energy raising about the disguised dragon. Striking a fore hand, he then frowned slightly at the display of 'Blood' and Kirin powers as Tezuka's steps grew progressively smaller.

Up and down the length and breath of the court, Atobe volleyed, back handed and forehanded; his frustration showing on his face as his rival remained rooted to the spot.

" Could it be?" a draca-demon asked of the air while a few rows over, a young black dragon asked what Tezuka was doing. Lacing his fingers together, Sengoku held them under his chin as he grinned his reply.

" Looks like the old steam burner is about to pull his favorite stunt." shaking his head in amusement, he added quietly; " Beats me how the humans have never noticed."

With all mythic eyes closely observing the blue-white light surrounding him, Tezuka's face was a mask of pure concentration as he watched the ball's every move.

" He calls it his " Tezuka Zone " remarked Inui to no one in particular as his team mates leaned forward. " No matter where the ball is, he will call it to him. It's a very mild form of telekinesis. "

" Really?" asked Eiji in surprise. " He can do that?"

" Yes." Absent mindedly pushing at his glasses, Inui forged ahead with his explanation. " He once told me how he tries not to use it, but his natural instincts are too strong and it tends to take over. It's exactly what you are seeing now."

Curving gracefully, the ball flew to Tezuka who slammed it back to the opposite service square. Running as fast as he could, Atobe raced to meet it but was a heart beat too late.

With the score at 15 all, Gakuto's jaw almost fell to his toes. " That over sized lizard is cursed! Yuushi, how can he possibly have that power. Unless..." turning his head, the Pooka frowned at a snoring Jiroh. " That white light." he thought as he envisioned the memory of Fuji touching the Kirin's brow. " Jiroh, what have you done?"

Out on the battle field, Atobe noticed Tezuka's hidden true form drooping as the shadowed reflection stood head down; his sides heaving as his wings lay limp and his tongue lolled from his jaws. ' Gold, your body is failing. Don't use your telekinesis.'

' I.. I can't.. control it.' was the weary reply as Tezuka the human stood unmoving.

Off to the side, Oishi balled his fists as his forest green eyes glimmered with emotion. " Tezuka.." he said firmly as he stared at his captain. To him, the mighty gold was more than just the dragon king his clan had sworn to obey. He was also a good friend and seeing him suffer was tearing him apart. "... you must stay strong, but your body grows so weak.." A chorus of shocked gasps rang out as many sets of stunned eyes fixed upon him.

" Is that true?" asked Momo' in a small voice as his frantic eyes darted between his captain and his mate.

" Yes.." murmured Oishi as he sadly hung his head. " It's true. Despite what you see, Tezuka is in fact steadily growing weaker. The curse..." he swallowed hard as he met Fuji's open eyes. "... it's slowly... killing him. He.. he told me not to tell you." Tears shone in the human form Moon Dog's eyes as a multitude of despairing cries met the shock announcement. " Of course, he does have a plan to have it removed!" added Oishi quickly. " Please... everyone! He doesn't want any of you to worry!"

" Too late nya!" snapped Eiji as his chest heaved and his eyes filled. Close by, a trembling Yuuta turned to his ridged older brother.

' Oh Syusuke! Did he tell you? And after giving him your power!'

Hearing the words, Fuji's mind fought against the truth his heart knew. But he flatly refused to accept it as final, the words; " Even if it costs me my own life, I'll never let Tezuka die." flowed like ice from his lips.

On the court, the ball flew back and forth. Clutching at his hair, Horio voiced a despairing moan. " No! Oh no! He can't die! Oishi sempei.. he can't die! He just can't!"

Deep green eyes turned hard as a low growl rumbled from Oishi's throat. " Whatever Raidon has done, he clearly means to destroy him. That spear must be removed soon or it will end his life!"

" I don't believe it!" shouted Horio as tears streamed down his face. " Hikari are suppose to protect dragons, not hurt them!"

Leaning his hands on the low wall before him, the vice-captain spoke in a hollow tone of bleak sorrow. " Raidon has done more than hurt him, Tanuki. The Caveat has to come out, and no one here can do it." Staring straight into Fuji's eyes, Oishi squared his shoulders as he steeled himself for his next words. " Only the copper dragon; Healing flames has the ability and she must remove it before it's too late."

" Before it's too late?" Fuji's silken voice was the most dangerous anyone had ever heard it and those closest to him took an involuntary step backwards as he glared at a clearly nervous Oishi.

" Yes. There is a strange poison, one I can't identify tainting his blood. I'm doing my very best to stop it and please do stop looking at me like that Fuji."

The mask of a strained smile sliding into place, the 'Blood' purred a quiet apology while close by, Momo' savagely spat something in mongoose language then hissed through his bared teeth. " That over baring bastard! I want to kill him..."

' You and most dragons by now' said Ryoma's voice in his head. Speaking out loud, the raven-haired singles star addressed his team at large. " See how he flows with power even now? Look at how strong he is, and even the danger surrounding us isn't bothering him!"

" Echizen is right!" snapped Oishi as his back straightened and his eyes flooded with determination. " Tezuka is strong! An ordinary dragon would have died that very night and with his plan to be healed... yes. We need not worry. But.." he added as he lowered his head once more. " ... the cure...it's going to be dangerous. He could still die or worse, Raidon could find out and should that happen, none of us will ever see him again."

" Saa.. then Raidon wont find out, not If I have anything to do with it."

Nodding at Fuji, Eiji spread his hands as his voice shook. " Nya Oishi! Why is the cure so dangerous?"

" Because.." began the Moon Dog seriously, "... it's forbidden magic. As I said, only one dragon in the world has the ability and Raidon would kill her if he knew of her plan to help Tezuka."

" Then, she will help?" asked Kachiro fearfully

" Idiot!" growled Horio. " Of course she'll help him, she has too! He's the king!"

" Tezuka has told me she has already agreed" declared Oishi firmly. Looking straight at Fuji, he informed the seething 'Blood' that all the preparations had been made. What he didn't tell the scowling Tensai was that the copper could not come to Japan and that Tezuka would have to go to her. " Yes Tezuka," he thought in silence as he watched the regal youth battle it out with Atobe. " Everything is set. Soon, you will be leaving us to meet your destiny; in Germany..."

To be continued...

Thoughts of Human Tezuka's childhood and the collapse of a dragon king... COMING SOON! Stay tuned!