The strings of the guitar dance at the will of her fingers, her voice serenading the welcoming morning sunrise. Her eyes closed and her gentle yet passionate voice radiating by the poolside where she played before the glowing water with an audience of the morning staff who happily listened to her performance while working and preparing for another day, she recalled her summer on the sidelines where she'd been trapped to seeing her teammates play in her stead, forced to be nothing more than a cheerleader. A surgery that put her out of commission for weeks, a hellish rehabilitation to be able to walk again, and now the frustrating feeling of watching her team fight while she sat and watched as a helpless bystander; all she could do now was let out that frustration through the only outlet she loved as much as playing with her friends: her music. Her voice matching her emotion as her strumming became intense, she sang her heart out while recalling the smiles she shared with Squidcom, the tears she wept in silence, and the physical burdens she had to endure behind closed doors. It was all a miracle to be here and though she should've been thankful for that alone, her greed got the better of her. More than anything she wanted to stand beside her squad and fight, and though she should've been thankful for the smallest of mercies given to her, her song radiated the theme of how she truly felt about this whole experience. An expression of frustration and regret, she lashed out against fate itself for cursing her and her wishes to follow her passions and ambitions. Near the conclusion of her performance with her head swaying and her voice carrying some echo, it all ends abruptly as she felt the aura of another who didn't belong to the staff that'd done well to minimize their presence.
"If I didn't know any better I would've thought that a professional artist was staying here and practicing before a big show."
Sally's ears twitched and her eyes widened-a mixture of surprise and embarrassment overcoming her as the familiar voice showed their face; perhaps the first and last person she wanted to encounter at the moment. "F-Fuchsia…!" she struggled to hold her tone low as the octoling stood before her with a plain look holding a steaming cup of tea in one hand and covering her yawn with the other, dressed in some casual clothes with her glasses on that gave Sally the hint she'd spent the night doing her research while the others were resting. Fidgeting a bit now that she had the head coach's attention, Sally twiddled her fingers with her guitar hugging her, "D-did you hear…" she mumbled under her breath, suddenly becoming bashful.
"All of it." Fuchsia nodded nonchalantly.
"A-all of it!?" she blushed, her voice escaping on instinct before covering her mouth and bowing to hide her face from the other employees who shot smirks and smiles at her indicating that they too heard everything as well.
Fuchsia nods again-her eyes glazed, "All of it."
"That's…"
Fuchsia took a sip and twisted her face after tasting the beverage, "Bleh it feels like I'm tasting the abyss itself!"
"What are you even drinking? Better yet, why are you even drinking it?"
"It's unsweetened tea and I heard it's a great alternative to coffee to help wake the body up, but I'm starting to see it's more for waking up for a different reason."
"Is that really all?" Sally raised a brow, skeptical that Fuchsia would drink something like that just for that purpose.
"Well, I guess it's also to help me feel more like a grown up. I mean, I've been doing other grown up things as is but-"
"I'll ask that you not continue that statement any further. No elaboration needed. I get it." Sally held up her hand with a blank expression and tone, very much aware of what and who the coach was referring to in that statement. "So, why are you up so early? Shouldn't you be getting some rest? We don't play until tomorrow and we already did our training as scheduled."
Fuchsia looked at Sally for a moment with a bit of amusement then ahead at the pool slowly losing its glow as daybreak continued to encroach, "Although we've done well with our preparations and I believe we're in good stead for tomorrow's game, I must admit I'm feeling restless."
"Which is why you were up all night doing research and finalizing? I notice you're wearing your smarty bifocals that you only bust out for reading purposes only. Or when you're on the computer."
"Oh these…?" she takes off her glasses to inspect; "Lately, Azule's really been going crazy with me wearing them. He makes these strange requests to keep them o-"
"Forget it. Let's end it here." she said with a dead look in her eyes, ready to abandon her coach before the conversation takes a turn she prefers never to exist.
"Alright I'll tone it down!" she giggled, proceeding to take another sip and twisting her face again; "I was researching Skolar and the other teams in our bracket to formulate ahead of time how to tackle them and time got away from me. More than likely I'll take it easy today and get my much needed rest. But before that, I've still got business to take care of."
Sally clutched her guitar and moved it aside to face Fuchsia better, "And that would be?"
The light in Fuchsia's eyes appeared brighter as the subtle openness shown by Sally meant there was progress made, "You still remember our previous conversation?"
Sally's posture stiffened immediately with recollection.
Fuchsia teased a smile, "I take that as a yes? You only get like this whenever it's your girlfriend."
"I remember." her tone became defensive. "Why bring that up…"
"What, Mika?"
"No, that convo."
"I'd like to continue that discussion while we're alone and have no one to interrupt us. It's a nice morning too, so why not enjoy it together." Sally's face tgot tense remembering the prior conversation and thinking about what would be discussed next, her heart thumping at the thought of what the result would be by the end; "Are you good to go? It's fine if you don't want to talk now."
"Let's do it. I'm ready." she answered promptly, returning to her usual self.
"Great! Wanna grab some breakfast then? I think it'd be better to do so over a warm meal, don't you think?"
"Lead the way." Sally responds by holding her arm out insistently for Fuchsia to overtake.
The two heading into the dining room with Fuchsia twisting her face yet again after taking another sip of the tea, they look to pick up where they left off. As for the content within their discussion? It would remain a mystery as the doors close behind them locking away any of the conversation that might've leaked.
The tournament reaching its most prolific round, the round of 16 was often regarded as the "Sweet 16" since this was the round where many unforgettable moments took place and almost always did the eventual tournament victor make their mark that foreshadowed their victory and for those following the tournament, that was the most entertaining part of the spectacle. Guessing the winner from the pool of teams remaining! Sixteen teams earned their spots to this honorable portion of the tournament, and as such there was a huge special being done on the final sixteen teams-a profile on who to watch and who to cheer for. Of course, plenty of attention went to the top two teams Rukovna and Hugh-Napri Vocational who were slated to meet again in the final for a Trilogy to their epic rivalry, then there were the other favorites that many wanted to see make a deep run such as Crystal Coast, Skolar, Kalebrough, and Special Forces, then there were other notable teams that caught the media's attention like Toka, Beacon Hills, and Yermozani among others. But there was plenty of excitement surrounding some of the underdogs still remaining in the tournament. Squidops were shown praise for how far they'd come despite being in the shadow of the other Inkopolis representatives including Squid Academy who directly stole their thunder as the ultimate underdog. And speaking of that team, plenty of love went towards Squid Academy who boasted the best resume among all teams remaining in the tournament, having bested literal favorites against unspeakable odds. All in all, the pandemonium for the round of 16 grew and grew by the minute, and as today served as the day off for teams to catch their rest before matches resumed tomorrow, the amount of hype that could be built in anticipation of the opening whistle the next day was enormous.
"Awright!" Reice pumps both of his fists in the air; "We've got a day off! Freedom! Sweet release from the shackles of training!"
Jory looked confused and ready to correct him his finger raised, "Uh, we sort of have one after every-"
"Don't bother, he's always like this." Todd sighed, resigning himself to fate knowing Reice would likely nab him along for a misadventure.
"Obviously I know we have little breaks on the days following our games, but thanks to getting this far we earned a mandatory rest day!" and indeed he was correct, after the round of 32, teams were given a day of rest in between rounds and with each round advancing further, the teams got an extra day in between. As such, today truly was a day to take a break and enjoy being one of the final 16 remaining.
"Alright Francis Reice, where are we voyaging today under her majesty's jurisdiction?" Violet crossed her arms with her sarcasm escaping from her emotionless tone as she watched him hop around full of energy.
"I have no clue! I just don't want to be stuck here at the resort with how suffocating it feels being in the same place all the time. Hehe I guess I should've done my research on the spots here ahead of time!"
"I heard there's a nice museum in the city."
"Ooh we could also do a trip to the beach afterwards, I heard the weather shouldn't be too hot and that sea breeze will be a bonus!"
"Aw yeah! Keep feeding plans! Let's make this a group assignment while we're at it! You know, for research purposes…" he rubs his hands together slyly following suggestions from Audrey and Sandra.
"I'll pass…" Azule insisted with a shake of the head, preferring to be alone for the day; Reice didn't lose his smile but the radiance was gone, though he understood that Azule needed his space he felt bummed to not spend any time together on a rare day off. "I need to cool down for the day so go without me, 'kay?"
Cobalt gave him a disheartened but understanding smile, "We'll make sure to take plenty of photos so keep your phone on you."
The rest of the team heading off to follow their itinerary, Azule saw this as a chance to be alone and gather his thoughts. The same city he'd spent all this time in now looked far more peaceful with the locals wandering the streets and shops and car beeping and honking to add life to the city. A somber look on his face as he stared at the many skyscrapers, the same way these buildings and streets were full of life, he couldn't help but remember an important pair were missing. Unconsciously, he found himself trudging in the direction of that same gravesite but his legs froze before he realized.
It's too soon… he convinced himself, remembering that he wouldn't go back there until it was all over. A heavy sigh let out as he took a gander of his nearby surroundings, he reflected on the many battles fought at the tournament and the mental and physical burden it all left on him. Even though Fuchsia did her best to relieve his stress whenever they were together, there was only so much she could do as his emotional support. It was too selfish to have her continue to give her all for him when she had other responsibilities as the head coach, he understood that clearly and hence why he decided to take a walk and solve his jumbled puzzle of thoughts on his own.
Carmichael and Skolar. The other dangerous teams left in this tournament. Surpassing my limits to better Midnight as a trump card. There's so much going on that I just feel like my head will explode! He fastens his cap covering his royal blue hair. Ugh! I'm drawing blanks everywhere! At this rate...
Just then every inch of his body broke out in a cold chill, the feeling of somebody's hard gaze from afar easily detectable. There was only one person he could think of aside from Fuchsia who'd cast such an intense and menacing aura that made his body tremble unconsciously with nervousness.
This feeling…!
"We finally crossed paths again!" Kippy beamed excitedly, waving her hand to call Azule's attention to her. Though she had her facemask on, Azule could tell she had a massive smile underneath with the way her eyes nearly shut as she called his name.
Reluctant at first as he could already imagine what would happen if Fuchsia saw the two of them together. "Glasses...neck...wringing…" he holds his neck, as though to protect the area from the ensuing threat in his mind.
" .Wringing." Kippy mimicked, also putting her hands up to her neck copying Azule.
"Gah! You're closer!"
"You wouldn't walk over so I came to you. I can't believe this is happening (again) and this time with no one else! Maybe the goddess of lo-"
Azule has a dead expression listening carefully.
"-uck! Goddess of luck is smiling on me! H-how's it going…" Kippy said progressively shrinking as she realized how awkward she made things, realizing just how embarrassing she must've been. She couldn't play it smooth like how she did with Janice. It's real after all!? she squealed in her head, hiding her blushing face behind her mask.
"I'm glad you're happy to see me but I think you've come at a bad time. I've got a lot on my mind and went for a walk to catch myself."
"Oh! You do that too?"
"Are you out here for the same reason?"
"Nope! I'm on a date." she said so casually with a friendly tone.
So easy!? Azule's eyes widened as he did a double take.
"But I often like to spend time alone whenever there's a lot on my plate. Like, I'm grateful to Kappa and the others, but there's just times-"
"When it feels like it's an issue you have to handle on your own?"
Kippy snapped her fingers, "Exactly! My responsibility and goals are for me to accomplish. No matter how helpful the others are, I know this is my responsibility alone." She said, slowly returning to her usual self but now becoming a bit melancholy as the realization of her situation returned.
Ah, that's why she went on this date. To probably forget about her troubles, and here I came like a fool and ruined it by bringing my gloom. "I'm sorry if I ended up making you remember something you'd prefer not to. I'll be getting out of your way now if that'll help." Azule said quickly, looking to create some distance and leave before things get any more awkward. But before he could completely dash past her, he felt a tug on his hand and noticed…
Their hands clasped together, Azule looked up to see Kippy's head lowered.
"Please...don't leave yet." she murmured unconsciously; Azule realized it was no use to leave her alone.
"Wow, what a grip." Azule said aloud to call attention, raising awareness for Kippy that she was holding his hand tightly and any longer and those around them might start to draw assumptions.
Her face blooming bright red, she quickly let go of his hand with a nervous laugh and looked humiliated. As he thought, she did that out of instinct. He couldn't leave her be like that especially when she supposedly had a date. The poor guy wouldn't be ready! Taking a seat nearby, the two were silent for a bit thanks to how awkward things got. Kippy fidgeted around, unable to look Azule in the eyes. partially because of the embarrassment but also because there was something about his soft gaze that struck a discomfort with her. Such kind eyes, yet they looked hollow at times. It felt like she was looking at a mirror. Azule also noticed that though she was a ray of sunshine, it all felt scripted like she was putting on a performance and how she truly felt would never be seen by anyone-not even family.
"If I may, what did you see in me?" Azule stated bluntly, tired of the silence.
Kippy blushed the hardest she ever did, "E-excuse me!?" she jerked.
"Ah, I meant in terms of inspiration…" He laughed, placing a hand behind the back of his head in reaction, already imagining Fuchsia's gauntlet landing a power strike there.
"O-oh right...Right! You were bound to follow some of the interviews. Yes. You are the reason I play. My inspiration."
"Wow, talk about a deep purpose. Feels weird to hear someone the same age as me say that kind of thing."
"I admit it does sound strange to hold someone the same age as me to such a high regard, but I mean it. Every bit. You truly are the reason I'm here right now." her voice starting to get shaky, her irises glassy as the memories from life before Kalebrough returned; "You are my light."
His expression changed. These weren't the type of things to say to someone with minimal interaction. They were barely strangers as it were: an idol and his fan, and yet she willfully treaded a zone that seemed too personal for comfort. His hands folded and his attention on her, he wanted to respect her feelings and listen carefully to what she had to say.
Kippy realized from his gaze that he was respecting her feelings, and all the more reason, "When you look at me like that I can't help but feel a bit nervous about opening up to you. But thank you for showing such respect."
"You call me your 'light' when we've barely interacted. Why?"
"I'll refrain from going too deep into this but...you were the catalyst for the positive change in my life. After I saw the declaration you made back in the fall, I felt inspired to take action myself. As such, the rest is history. I built an unbreakable bond with my teammates that I can now call my best friends. My community is in my corner and is like a second family. And it's all thanks to you being the one who inspired me."
"Even if that is the case, doesn't that mean it's more your effort than mine? You made the decision to play. You took that initiative. I shouldn't get any of the credit for the work you put in. But nonetheless I'm flattered by such high regard."
Kippy's eyes softened as she stared longingly at him while he checked his phone, You're making this difficult for me…please…
"I'll respect your reason for not wanting to share your past. That's your experience alone and it's up to you how you tackle it but…" He holds out his fist; "I'll support you. We might not talk a lot but if you ever need my assistance, I'll gladly help." How Spyke was to me, I'm to her. I won't fail again.
Stunned by his words, Kippy didn't know how to respond. Her heart beating with an echo, she needed to choose her next words very carefully. She'd finally established a friendship with him where she could share her feelings, she didn't need to overstep. "If there is one thing I must say to you…" Her eyes turned serious, "Will you watch us play in our upcoming match?" Her resolve was strong, carrying a gentle yet fierce breeze.
Azule understood her feelings.
"I know it's asking a lot considering you also have your own match to worry about. But if you came to watch, I think I could give you a proper telling of who I am. I'll play my heart out, because I know what awaits beyond."
We'd meet her side in the Quarterfinals. He thought, observing her closely as she struggled to keep herself from fidgeting.
"I'll go." Azule stated concretely; "I'll be there, so you better win." He flashes a smile; "Let's meet again in the quarterfinals, 'kay?"
Her heartbeat growing stronger, she reached out for his fistbump. "Yeah…" I love you! Kippy screamed in her mind. "Let's meet in the quarterfinals!" she beamed. I'll convey this to you in the next round. I swear, I'll tell you how I truly feel. The struggles, the neglect, the loneliness. I'll tell you everything. I know our relationship will never proceed beyond being just friends but-"No regrets! I'll play without any regrets, so watch me! Make sure you come!"
Azule smiled, "Of course-ah, your date must be looking for you so I'm going to head out."
"Right…" Kippy looked away shyly, mostly because those same three words repeated in her mind and she didn't want to mistakenly say it aloud.
Watching him walk away reaffirmed her feelings that whether she liked it or not, there'd come a day that he would truly be gone from her grasp and sight, so before that day arrives, she must reveal everything and leave no regrets. As she toiled over her rush of feelings chaotically clashing in her heart, her "date" arrived.
"Damn, you really made it obvious. It'd been too embarrassing to show up in such a conversation. But are you sure you didn't wanna confess? You looked to be on the verge of spilling everything." Janice said, appearing after eavesdropping on the conversation.
"It'd be immoral to say that knowing he has a girlfriend."
Janice sneered, "Hah? Are you really saying that when you dropped all those hints? I'm damn sure he knows you like him. And what's wrong with confessin? You plan on doing it if you win anyways, right?"
"L-look, I'll convey my feelings to him the only way I know how so it's not a big deal. Besides, It's more for my closure than anything. I know we'll never be anything deeper than that but I still want to let him know how I feel."
"R-right...so uh...I'm your date huh?"
"Getting funny ideas?" Kippy giggled.
"N-no not me, I just thought it weird how you can say that so easily without getting flustered is all."
"Hm?" she hummed with a tease, "You dressed nice again. Were you looking forward to this?"
"Not at all...maybe a little. A-anyways, let's go! I can't let the others see me dressed like this. I'd lose my street cred."
Unfortunately for Janice, her team was following behind her the entire time at a convenient distance...
