Chapter 9: King of Fighters Round 2
The South Town streets were quite today. Everybody who's anybody is sitting inside the South Town arena or at home watching on Pay Per View. They are eagerly awaiting the start of the semifinals of the King of Fighters tournament and after yesterday's blockbuster show, the adrenaline was running high.
Terry Bogard and 'Blue' Mary Ryan happened to be walking down these very streets today. They were on their way to the next fight location which happened to be on the South Town pier, a place that is well known to both of them, so they could just take their time and enjoy the clear air.
"Terry…?" Mary asked. They had pretty much been silent the entire way over here and it wasn't helping Mary. She kind of had a feeling that Terry let her sit out last round because he didn't want her to get hurt but then again, he was Terry Bogard, a man of changing personalities.
"Yea Mary?" He said with a smile. There was nothing wrong with his tone. He sounded like he would any other day, King of Fighters going on or not.
"Why… Did you have me sit out the first match?" She pondered. She also made sure not to change her tone in any way.
Terry's smile grew a bit bigger. He knew that was on her mind, he could see it in her eyes since yesterday. "Hmph. Well, you were much more useful as a striker that you would be a competitor."
More useful? Does that mean I would have been useless as a fighter?! "A – A – A…"
Terry started laughing. Not just a regular chuckle but a full gut busting reaction. Mary looked at him and stopped in her tracks. Her face was becoming as red as her shirt.
After walking almost an additional ten feet away, Terry stopped and realized that Mary had stopped right where he started laughing. Anton was having a tough time finding out what was wrong with Mary as he began to circle her and wag his tail.
Terry turned and walked back towards her. He put his hand on her shoulder but her eyes still remained pointed towards the ground.
"Mary… It was only a joke."
"Then… W – why?"
"Because… I didn't want anything to happen to you before today's fight."
"Wha – What?" She looked back up at him. His blue eyes stared sincerely back at hers saying that he was telling no lie.
"It's time for you to step up to the plate…"
Mary smiled. She wanted to wrap her arms around him and kiss those soft lips of his but she knew better than that. Messing with emotions during a fight was a big no – no for both of them. They were still very sensitive when it came to that subject.
"Grrrrrr…" Anton growled. Terry knew the keen senses of man's best friend and with a reaction like that from a generally playful dog, it didn't sound good
Mary could feel it to. Something wasn't right about the situation. She started looking around. They were almost close to the bay so maybe there was an animal that Anton saw that he didn't know. Either way, they needed to find out soon.
"Mary!" Terry called. He looked toward where Anton was growling and saw something that really confused him.
"Yea?" She responded.
"What's today's temperature?"
"Huh?" Mary wondered why Terry would ask that but instead of questioning it further she looked at her watch that had built in handy thermostat. "It's eighty-eight degrees Terry. Pretty hot if you ask me."
"Look…" He said while pointing towards the sight. Mary obliged and saw something she never thought to see, a small puddle of water sitting in the gutter that was frozen solid.
Mary looked back up at Terry, a lot more worried than she was before. "Terry!"
"Let's go Mary…" Terry stated while moving forward. "We don't have much time."
The pier was quite. Even the birds that flew by remained silent. The water that rustled on the sea shore played gently like a soothing baby melody. This was the perfect day for the average person. K' was nothing like that.
He paced back and forth through the fighting square with his hand in his pocket. Maxima, Vanessa, and Ramon were also on hand but they weren't too concerned with their captain's current status.
K' was just short of pissed off. They were waiting there for a whole five minutes and only half of the opposing team showed up. It would have been fine with K' on normal occasions but the one member he was gunning for just happened not to be her at this time.
Joe and Andy sat in their opposing corner also waiting. The fight was set to begin in only five minutes and Terry and Mary haven't even arrived. Andy knows his brother always liked to make an entrance but after the incident yesterday, he thought his brother would be a little wiser.
"What's taking Terry so long?" Joe asked making sure to keep his voice low enough so the other team won't hear.
Andy shook his head. He had no idea nor did he really care for the moment. He was still furious at K' for what he did to Mai yesterday. Andy wanted in the fight and he wanted it bad.
"Hey guys!" Called a female voice from the docks. All fighters paid attention to that yell. Joe felt a sigh of relief as he saw Mary and Terry approached the fighting square.
"What took you?" Andy scornfully asked. His tone was dark and full of anger.
Terry just smiled and looked at his brother, "Mary said she felt like an iced mocha…"
"Terry!" She replied feeling bad that he slammed the blame on her. She looked over at Terry and he gave her a small wink once no one was looking. It was then she knew what Terry meant by his iced comment.
"Well alright then!" Joe cheered, "What's the battle plan Terry?"
"Alright… Mary's going in first."
"Got it!" She replied.
"I'm going second," Terry stated.
Saving my revenge for last… Andy thought.
"Joe, You're third."
"What?!" Andy responded. "Terry!"
"Forget it Andy. Look at yourself. You know damn well you're in no condition to fight!"
Andy growled while grinding his teeth. "So what do you suppose I do until then?!" Andy hissed as if he didn't know the concept of the striker. He was sidelined and he was pissed; Terry must have had some kind of plan up his sleeve to set Andy off like that.
"Let's go chico…" Ramon taunted while stepping into the fighting square. He was very muscular for his size and had one of the weirdest fighting stances.
"Terry…" Mary whispered, "Who is this guy?"
Terry stared him down; the way he moved, his swagger, his fighting stance. Terry shook his head, "Not too sure myself but he looks like a grappler."
"A grappler? But he's too small," Mary responded.
"Look's can be deceiving. Go get him Mary!"
Mary smiled, "Right!" She stepped into the fighting square and threw her green jacket into the air "Anton!" She called and her trusty companion ran up and swiped it before it hit the ground.
"Are you ready?" Mary asked while pointing her finger. Ramon didn't say a word; he just grinned and got into his unique fighting stance. The fight had begun.
Mary began to walk around the fighting square as did Ramon. Ramon's stance was very original as far as Mary was concerned. He moved like a boxer but the way his arms were positions told a different story.
After the small sizing up period, Ramon attacked. He leaped from his standing position and flew like a bird in the air. His body was spread out and he looked like he was ready to splash right on top of Mary.
A cross-body-block? That's only used in… HUH?! Mary gasped as she dove out of the way. He was a lot quicker than she initially thought. Mary dove away from the flying Ramon and quickly landed on her feet. She looked over at Ramon and he was face down on the pier. Is he done? She thought.
Ramon jumped back on his feet. He looked to perfectly fine after he dusted himself off. He looked over at Mary wondering why she had such a confused expression on her face.
This guy's a wrestler! Only they could take that kind of punishment and walk away from it Mary thought and then she put up her guard. Wrestlers were a wily bunch. They were quick, powerful, and had the stamina of ten regular men. There was a long road ahead before he went down.
Ramon dashed forward running at full speed. He leaped into the air and kicked both feet forward. A classic wrestling drop kick that was executed with perfection.
Mary took the kick straight in the arms and was pushed back. His strength was unremarkable for a man of his size so she made a special note not to underestimate him; just as Terry said.
After regaining balance, Mary saw that Ramon was not letting up. He started throwing a volley of kicks and punches, each one connected but not in the sweet spots. Mary took a bruising to her arms but remained cool. They haven't reached the hard fight yet.
Ramon swung his arm around hoping to clothesline Mary but all he nailed was empty air. "You're one tough lady but I'm done playing around," he stated and before his second breath took place he dove after Mary.
Mary timed the attack perfectly; going high was Ramon's mistake. She set up her defense to catch his arms and get him in an arm bar. That would only work if Ramon followed through.
Ramon flipped forward and slid right under Mary's legs. Mary was completely dumbfounded and before she knew it there was a fist slammed directly into her gut. She spit forward in agony. Even lying down, Ramon punches hard. He continued the sweep under her legs and pulled one of her arms with him.
Mary somersaulted to the ground. It hurt but not as bad as the punch. When she opened her eyes, Ramon was already on his feet and ready to continue his attack.
He pulled Mary by the head, clenching her blonde hair and immediately dunked it under his arm. He latched his free arm onto her belt and lifted with all his might.
Mary's back crashed onto the ground once again. She was in a new world of hurt. Her spine smashed so hard her legs almost went numb. Mary made sure never to doubt the strengths of wrestlers again.
Ramon backed off and prepared for another attack. He knew a body splash would knock the wind out of her and if she wouldn't get up in ten seconds, she would be out of the fight. This was too easy… He leaped into the air as high as he could and spread his body like an eagle ready to pounce on its prey.
Mary was a veteran. She knew better than to be lying down on the job. "Vertical Arrow!" She cried.
Ramon's jaw was singing the song of pain. He came at full velocity right into Mary's foot and the resulting sound could prove his cries. The worst part was his mouth was wide open in true wrestler fashion. He knew this wasn't the time to be acting like that but when the adrenaline hits you, there's only one way you can go.
Ramon landed on the ground but not as hard as he could have. He was lucky that she only got in that one hit or his fight would have ended right there. After a few stretches of his neck and another feel of his jaw, Ramon set up his stance and he was ready to go.
Why didn't she follow up? He pondered. Wrestling's key strength was to never let your opponent have a chance to breathe. What kind of fighting is she into?
Mary followed around him, waiting for another opportunity to attack. She knew Ramon would have to come in close once again to attack. She was still feeling the effects of the suplex but it wasn't anything major. There was plenty of fight still left in her.
Ramon moved in and began throwing a slew of kicks and punches. Mary moved back and blocked and dodged every one of Ramon's attacks. He wanted to find out just what kind of fighter she was and this was the only way to go.
Every attack was coming almost in sync with one another. Mary memorized the pattern after a few more punches and went in. She blocked a front kick from Ramon and tripped him with a back-sweep. They both collapsed to the ground but Mary had a firm grip on his leg in an ankle lock and pulled until she heard a crack.
That's it! She counters! Ramon thought. He sized up her face for one good boot and planted his green shoes right in her cheek. She let go of his legged and rolled away far enough to where she could regroup.
Ramon's ankle hurt. There was no break but she pulled hard enough to leave it sprained. His stance became jittered and there was no more hopping. He was running out of steam.
Mary was also feeling the effects of the attacks. She put her hand on her cheek and could feel the swelling begin. It wasn't as bad as she thought but she'd definitely have to ice if overnight if she didn't want it to show tomorrow. More importantly, she felt that Ramon had figured her out. In an ankle lock, it only took a few seconds before she'd hear a snap no matter how strong the ankle was. Plus, the initial shock of the situation usually allowed for a ten to fifteen second recovery time. Ramon had her number so now she had to go on the offensive.
Mary took up a dash and immediately slid to the ground. Ramon looked at her kind of funny because this was the exact move he did on her.
Stupid woman! What is she doing?! He thought as his short legs took him airborne. He used all of his might and got a lot higher than he expected. She flipped forward and prepared to land a missile dropkick on his landing.
Mary stopped her slide as soon as she saw him jump in the air. Perfect! She said as she followed him up only she was more prepared than he was.
What the?! Ramon cursed as he turned and saw Mary grab him by the waste and dragged him down to the ground.
*CRACK*
"ARRRRGGH!" He cried as his shoulder was plowed straight into Mary's knee. It was a pain he never felt before. He didn't even have the strength to roll away. He just sat there on his knees, holding his shoulder as if it were about to explode.
Mary didn't give him a chance to recuperate. She grabbed him by the shoulders, making sure to squeeze the injured one especially tight and spun him as fast as she could.
"WO – WO – WOAH!" He cried as the whole pier became one big blur. His body was being lifted from the ground and he couldn't believe it. He didn't like where this was going.
Mary let go and flung him as far as his body would carry. Oddly enough, she timed it just right or by freak accident that his back smashed into one of the docked ships and left a not so friendly dent. Ramon's body fell into the water like a ton of bricks.
She became a bit worried after that. He could drown if he was unconscious. She looked over to where Ramon landed and let out a big sigh. Luckily, the ship was close to shore so Ramon was sitting in the water with his head sunk only inches from the surface. There was no other movement.
"Way to go Mary!" Joe cheered. Terry smiled and looked at her. She returned Terry's smile and pointed a finger gun right at his heart.
"Bakue!" She said with a kiss.
Joe looked over at Terry with raised eyebrows and a much bigger grin. "Way to go Terry!" He whispered in his ear. Terry nodded and waved his head, mentally telling Mary that there were two more opponents left to fight.
She turned around and saw the only other woman in this match, Vanessa pumping her fists and raring to go.
A boxer… She'll be a lot quicker than the first one she thought. There were a few gashes on her body from the previous fight but all in all she was still in pretty good shape. This fight will be a test of her endurance.
"GO!" Vanessa cried as soon as she saw Mary was ready. She ran towards Mary and began to duck and weave.
Damn she's fast! Mary thought. She was on her guard and tried to discern Vanessa's moves. She was just too fast.
Mary tried to catch on of her fists but ended up taking one in the chest. Another soon came to the gut and a follow up to the chin. Mary was reeling but wasn't out of the clear yet. Vanessa kept up like a true boxer would and continued the pounding until her opponent fell.
Vanessa went low and rocked Mary's stomach with a combination of lefts and rights. A following uppercut sent Mary to the ground. Her whole body was wrecked in pain and she had no idea where to go from here.
The red-haired boxer back off for the moment. "Is that all you've got?" She fiercely asked. "Why are you wasting my time?!"
That pissed Mary off. Ok, she'd been knocked down but that didn't mean the fight was over. What heightened the anger was the fact that she heard it from a woman. A man yeah, she's heard it before, but a woman. Mary felt she was second to none in her gender.
Mary jumped from her resting position and got into her ready stance. Vanessa's frown turned into a smile. She wanted to get a nice workout before the real fights started so maybe this blonde vixen would give it to her.
Vanessa pumped and faked back and forth, dancing circles around Mary. When she thought she did it long enough to confuse Mary, she began the attack.
*SMACK*
Vanessa was taken right off of her feet and landed straight on her back. Mary jumped on top of her and swung around to the right side while wrapping both arms around her neck. She squeezed hard enough to cut the flow of air from Vanessa's body and kicked her aside. Vanessa rolled away hoping to avoid further attack. It never came.
Vanessa stood on her knees coughing like a sick child. Another second and she would have been out cold. She couldn't believe that she was taken down so easily.
"This isn't a boxing match!" Mary taunted as she stood in front of the kneeling Vanessa, "You better learn how to fight at all angles!"
It was Vanessa's turn to be upset. She was never bested in a toe-to-toe fight but King of Fighters wasn't a toe-to-toe game. She was going to have to change her game if she wanted to keep up with someone like Mary.
Vanessa sprung up and came out fists-a-blazing. Every punch was like a message saying eat your words bitch! and she wanted to imprint them on every part of Mary's body.
Mary blocked and swayed from the attacks for the moment. That's all she pretty much could do. Vanessa was moving way too fast for her to try and counter. She sensed that she went a little over the line with that last comment.
Damnit! Stop standing there! FIGHT! Mary swore. The only thing that can dismount a good offense is a great offense.
*SMASH*
Mary drove her knuckles right into Vanessa's face. Her head snapped backwards as if it were about to come right off. Mary was about to follow up before she caught that Vanessa had already regained her stability and followed up a counter attack.
*SMACK*
*SMASH*
*CRACK*
A flurry of punches landed all over Mary's body and face. Every one had the same kind of power to them and it only had one message, pain. Mary could barely stand on her own strength but Vanessa surely obliged to that. One last punch straight into her skull sent Mary crashing into the ground.
Vanessa shook her hands after the attack. All of those punches on some of the hardest parts of the body took a lot out of a person; especially since she didn't have any boxing gloves on. She looked down at Mary and saw that the blonde was still shaking from the attack.
It's done… "Well, I'm glad that you see it my – huh?" Vanessa stopped right after she saw Mary getting up from the ground. She was bleeding on the corner of her lip and most of her body have gashes and soon to be bruises.
There's no way she could be still standing! It just isn't possible! I'm a professional! Vanessa screamed.
"Come… On," Mary murmured. "Is that your best?"
Why you?! Vanessa shouted while running for Mary. She was barely hanging on to consciousness; there was no way she could stand up to another assault like that.
Luckily, Mary knew how to kill two birds with one stone. Just before Vanessa could get within striking distance she fell to the ground but made sure to have one foot high. Vanessa tripped over the fallen Mary and crashed into the ground. Her arms broke her fall but they took a lot of damage.
Mary stood up. It took her a while but she did it. That little two second break was a little less than expected but it did the job. Vanessa picked her body up and noticed the very large scratches on each of her forearms. There was no way her punches would be as effective as they were at the beginning of the fight.
Still, Vanessa ran forward. All she had to do was knock Mary down and the shock of the fall should knock her out. Just one or two punches should do it. Vanessa made sure to cover low so that she wouldn't be a victim of a third sweep in the fight.
Vanessa threw her fist forward hoping to smash in Mary's face. Mary went down alright. Vanessa's fist caught nothing but thin air. She didn't even have to punch her to take her out.
Victory! She thought just before two legs wrapped around her neck. What the?!
*SMASH*
Vanessa's head was crushed under the weight of her own body. She flopped around like a fish afterwards but soon stopped. There was no way she was getting up from that.
"YEAAAH!" Joe cried. There was nothing like a good head smash to end a fight.
Mary stood up and dusted herself off. She cleaned up her hair a bit and looked into the camera, giving a coy, I'm a winner look. That was just before she was tackled by Anton as he began to lick her face.
"Anton!" She yelled begging the dog to get off but he wouldn't let up. He was so happy that Mary was ok.
"MARY!" Terry yelled from the sidelines. Anton quickly jumped off his master and ran towards Terry. Mary picked her head up and wondered why Terry would yell at her like that. The answer came in the form of a flying red fist.
"AAAAAAHHHHH!" She spat a combination of saliva and blood. K' showed no mercy for those who were distracted from the fight.
"BURN KNUCKLE!" Terry came flying from his position and landed right over Mary. K', however, was already meters away waiting for Terry to follow up.
Terry picked up Mary from the ground and carried her over to his other teammates.
"Take care of her Joe!" He said while placing her in his arms. Joe nodded not wanting to add a quip or a joke. The way Terry looked; he was way too serious to screw around with.
Terry turned around with his cap tipped. K' couldn't see his eyes but he knew they were full of anger, just like he wanted it. So long as he got Terry worked up on emotions, he wouldn't be able to fight like his normal self.
Terry moved into the fighting square and stretched his muscles giving a definitive "HA!" right at the peak. He was fired up and ready to go.
K' moved fast and before Terry could even blink he was standing right in front of him. K' delivered a hard punch right into Terry's heart that shot him backwards and onto the ground.
Dirt skidded upon Terry's landing but he didn't roll for very long. Terry knew that if he laid down for even a second, K' could easily end this fight. The Lone Wolf sprung right back up from the ground and resumed his fighting stance. K' smiled on the inside knowing how tough Bogard really was but didn't let any emotions come to the outside.
K' struck again going for one of his swinging front kicks while screaming "Shydyaaa!"
Terry blocked the kick and managed to knock K' off balance. He reeled backwards but didn't loose his stability with his grounded leg. Terry swung his fist in a haymaker fashion and connected right in K's jaw, finally sending him to the ground.
K' didn't waste an inch during a fight. Even while lying on his face he swung at Terry with his right leg going for a sweep. Terry flipped backwards completely avoiding K's strike. Just upon Terry's landing, K' was already up and moving. His quickness and speed were uncanny; Terry had never seen anyone move as fast as K'.
K' threw a series of quick kicks and punches. Terry evaded most of them but he was forced to take a couple of blows. Even throwing attacks at random, K' is a dangerous force.
Terry took a quick step back and deeply rooted his foot in the ground. K' wound up for a straight roundhouse to Terry's skull and was ready to deliver.
"BURN KNUCKLE!"
K' saw the attack coming and hasted his own to catch Terry's fist. He felt the energy of Terry's strike burn the palms of his hands but his gloves easily protected him from any permanent harm. He pulled Terry forward and slung him into his knee. K' followed up with an elbow to the back of Terry's head and he easily flipped over straight onto the ground.
"TERRY!" Screamed Joe. He'd never seen him completely brutalized like this in a fight. Terry couldn't hear his cries. His mind was completely focused on pain. He's never fought someone this tough since Geese Howard and it's especially straining since he was fighting a man he previously beat. What a year does to a man.
K' lifted his leg high and slammed it into the crevice of Terry's chest.
"KRAAAAARGH!" Terry cried as he felt his sternum almost snap in two and cave into his body.
K' slammed his foot into the side of Terry's face and sent him rolling onto the other side of the fighting square. His hat flew off of his head and landed right next to K's foot. K' looked down at it and smiled just before picking it up.
"Namenjane-zo teme…" K' taunted while wafting his hair back and tightly clenching Terry's hat in his hand. He gave it a good squeeze and tossed it to Terry. His free, flame engulfed hand shot out to strike at the hat just before it reached its owner. K' smiled at the sight.
Terry shot up and caught the hat seconds before it hit his body. His other hand was already charged up as he struck K's fire missile with an angered rage while crying "Burn Knuckle!"
K's projectile exploded on contact. All that was left was the little remnants of orange and red light that soon flickered out into the dry port air. Terry took the two fingers he caught his hat with and used them to shake out the wrinkles. He placed it back on his head as if there was nothing wrong and gave K' one of his famous Lone Wolf stares.
"Hey… Com'on Com'on!"
The fire in K's eyes never grew hotter. After all of that punishment, after all of the beatings, Terry stood there mocking him as if the last moments of the fight ever existed. He resumed his fighting stance awaiting K's next move.
Terry's body hurt, it hurt pretty bad but that wasn't stopping this fight. K' might have had the upper hand early on but there was still plenty of fight left. K' didn't waste a second. He charged in throwing a flurry of kicks and punches, each had a growing sense of rage building in them. Terry could feel K' being weakened by these emotions and tried hard to keep it that way.
"SHYDYAAA!" K' screamed while throwing his leg outward. Terry saw the move just before it started and moved away. He knew it was time for some fancy footwork. If Terry dodged a lot of K's attacks, then he'd be wasting his energy. The adrenaline would have to wear off soon or so Terry hoped.
K' moved faster and struck harder than ever before. Fueled by his emotions, K' wanted to tear the Lone Wolf apart. Flame soon appeared on each arm as he swung at Terry. The oldest Bogard brother was about to get burned.
Terry dove to the side. He could feel the flames scratch at his ribs as he dove. K' swung into empty air while watching his target roll away into the sandy coast and spin directly behind him.
How the?! He's still that fast?!
"POWER WAVE!"
Terry's fist smashed against the ground as a bolt of orange ki flew right at K'. The immense power driven from it completely blew his hat off.
Terry looked up and found that his Power Wave had struck the docked ship.
What the?! "ACKKKK!" He cried as he felt the air being cut out from his body. The last thing he could remember seeing is a red glove clenching his throat. K' was a lot faster than he thought.
"MAXIMAAAA!" K' yelled while squeezing Terry. His vision was blurry but he could see a blue clad behemoth heading straight for him while cocking his wrist.
If he hits me with that… Terry thought. Then he remembered the move he pulled last time to get out of a situation just like this. Terry swung his heel at K's kneecap. There was no impact.
Terry felt his foot slide right under K's legs. "Trying to sweep me off my feet BOGARD?!" He replied. "YOU'RE FINISHED!"
Maxima dashed forward. His fist was pulled backward and in a moment, swung forward with a little extra help from his hidden weapon. Terry tried to break free from the hold. He had no idea what to do now but prepare from impact.
TERRY! He heard a female voice cry in his head. He could see anything but a streak of teal color and in an instant it switched right back to navy blue. Maxima swung forward.
Terry kicked back and threw K' right over his shoulder. Maxima's fist impacted dead on K's spine but Terry wasn't out of the water yet. He'd take to long on K's release and he too felt Maxima's attack. Surely not as bad as K' but it was just enough to send them both to the ground, coughing like a six year old with a cold.
Maxima wanted to swear out loud but he knew his time was over. If he staying in the fighting square any longer, he would disqualify his team.
Terry reached to his knees and let out the last remaining coughs. Surprisingly, he landed just feet short of his hat and before thinking; he picked it up and put it on.
Looking over at K', he was in much worse shape. A small pool of blood spewed from his mouth along with a bit of saliva. He'd never been hit like that in his life. His back felt like it snapped in half but he knew better. He cursed at himself for taking Terry too lightly and allowing that to happen.
K' stood up and spit out the rest of the blood in his mouth. After shaking his head a bit, making sure that he fully recovered he was ready to go.
"BURN KNUCKLE!"
Terry's fist slammed into the side of K's face. The impact launched K' into the air and slammed his body down onto the rough coast sand. More blood began to trickle down the side of his face. K's eye had been cut.
Terry looked over at Andy. His brother couldn't believe what he was seeing. He'd never seen two people go at it with such passion and aggression. Snapping out of his admirable glare, he saw that Terry gave him a wink and knew exactly what was coming next.
K' sprang to his feet. He was more upset that ever before. He dashed towards Terry with a new enthusiasm and more importantly, a new fit of rage.
Terry saw K' coming for him and prepared his defense. K' was only a few feet from Terry and began to slide on the ground. After preparing for a sweep defense, K' was no longer in sight.
He vanished… NO! Terry shouted as he turned around to find the flamed enraged K' standing right behind him.
K' lit up his fist and swung at Terry. The only thing he could see Terry do was put his fingers in his lips and blow.
"ZANEIKAN!"
"ARRRRGGGHHHH!" K' cried. His back was struck once again in the exact same spot. Blood shot out of his mouth and would have covered Terry's face if he was still standing there. His body was paralyzed with pain and couldn't even see what awaited him next.
"OVERHEAT!"
Terry slammed his shoulder into K's chest. It was a different change of pace from attacking the back but he had a wide open shot and a smart fighter always took that road.
K' felt his body being rocked by and uppercut that just wouldn't let up. There were at least three hits before his body lifted from the ground.
"GYSERRRR!"
Terry's rising ki strike smashed into K's vulnerable back. He was instantly shot onto a pile of discarded crates that looked more like a busted wooden piñata after K' landed in it. His body was no longer visible in the debris. Terry took a big sigh and hoped that the fight was over.
The crates sparked and were instantly engulfed in flames. K' stood up from the wreckage and if he looked pissed before that was a day at the beach compared to this. He took slow steps while approaching Terry. All it would take was one strike in his state, blocked or not, and Terry would be finished.
*TIME OVER*
The fight was over but K' didn't hear a bell. He dashed towards Terry, not caring about King of Fighters or anything else. He'd never been humiliated like that and now he would relieve his aggression on Terry.
K' cocked his fist back. He engulfed it in a cage of fire; the most powerful he had ever created, and lurched it forward.
DIE! He cried to himself just before impact.
It never came.
Terry was already well away from K's attack but that wasn't the important part. K's red fist was covered in ice. The sheer shock of the situation took away that now; the entire pier was turned into a Winter Wonderland. Not a drop of water was moving in the sea.
"What's going on?!" Andy shouted. All of the other fighters returned his expression of shock with one of their own.
Mary awoke with a cool feeling brushing against her cheek. Her hand slid from across her chest and felt that she was sleeping on a block of ice. Looking up, she saw what everyone else had been staring at and couldn't get any emotion to appear on her face.
From behind the ship, there stood a short, light blue haired girl and next to her was a much taller and a much more flashy dresser wearing nothing but white and crimson.
It's her! Andy cried. He immediately turned his attention over to Terry as he watched and waited.
The light blue haired girl lifted her harm and pointed at the group of fighters. She received a nod from her companion and dashed forward.
"TERRY!" Andy shouted. He didn't know any other way to warn him but that would have to do.
Before Terry could even blink, he saw the girl approach him with a speed that was rivaled by no one he knew and she threw a fist straight at his skull.
*SMACK*
Terry put up a defense but that wasn't necessary. The girl's yellow hand was caught by a red one. Remnants of ice sprayed in the air.
"YOU!" K' shouted. "YOU'RE IN MY WAY!" He replied while throwing a ball of flame at her midsection. She dodged it but instead of following up, she headed for the sea of ice.
"I'll get you!" He yelled while chasing after her. Nothing mattered to him anymore. The fight, his teammates, his enemies. They were all a blur in his mind as he went after the one person who could have been stronger than he was. He felt it in the speed of her attack and how quickly and easily she dissipated his flame. K' took off like a psycho beast and wouldn't stop running until he caught his prey.
"What's going on?!" Terry shouted. Andy looked over at him once again and sighed.
"It's a long story…"
The streets of South Town at this time of night would have been bustling with traffic and late night go-getters. Unfortunately for those of that particular breed, they would have to wait for another night to delve in their shopping habits. The South Town plaza had been roped off for the second semifinal match in the King of Fighters Tournament.
"Ready to go Benny!" Shingo cheered. His friend was not sharing his mood.
"What did I tell you about calling me that?!" He replied. "It's BENIMARU!"
"I know! I know!" Shingo protested, "It's just that I'm so excited!"
"Get over it!" Benimaru shouted. "Look…" He said while pointing forward, "Here come our opponents. GET READY!"
"Got it!" Shingo replied. He began to stretch his legs while counting "O-ichi ni san shi." Then, he tossed on his over-top coat. "Shingo, ichiban te ikkima~su!" He shouted mentally thanking his master Kyo for all of his hard work. Shingo was ready to go.
The Art of Fighting Team approached the fighting square. Ryo looked to be in a dreary mood. The thoughts of last night plagued his memory but that would only slow him down. They were in a totally different situation now. They were about to face the team that put them out of the finals last year minus two members. The absence of K' and Maxima gave Ryo and his team a much better chance of succeeding than ever before.
"Ryo!" Takuma called from his position. He was standing firmly in their corner with his arms across his chest.
"Yes sir!" Ryo replied. It wasn't as enthusiastic as he usually would say but it would have to do.
"Pick the order…"
Ryo's face would have lit up like a child at his birthday party but his discipline taught him better than that. He nodded as a reply and instructed his teammates on the order.
"Alright Robert. You're up first."
"Gotcha!" He replied while slapping his muscle. He didn't even see a second of fighting in the first round so he was the freshest fighter they had.
"King," Ryo pointed, "You'll go next."
"Alright…" She replied. Her tone wasn't too enthusiastic. Ryo noticed that and wondered if she was going through the same dilemma as himself.
"I'll go last…" Ryo stated. He looked over at Takuma and he looked satisfied with his son's decision by giving a short nod. Ryo nodded back and turned his focus to the fight.
"Ok Robert… Get in there and show your stuff!" Ryo cheered. Robert gave a nice healthy grin and jumped into the fighting square. He tightened his white gloves, still keeping his smile on, and then taunted at the young Shingo.
"Hora… Ikimase!"
Shingo looked back at Robert with a serious glare. He wasn't going to shame his master in the first round. Shingo was determined to defeat Robert and honor the Kusanagi Martial Arts style.
Let's go, Shingo! "SHINGO KICK!" He cried while jumping forward. His leg smacked Robert's muscular forearm and Shingo was instantly pushed back by his opponent's resistance.
Robert took a step back. This kid is fast… I wonder if he does have a little Kyo in him he thought. If Robert was going to win this fight he would have to control Shingo's speed.
"Ryu Geki Ken!" Robert cried as he threw his orange ki projectile. Shingo was already way ahead of the game. He knew that he didn't have a projectile to counter Robert's or anyone else's, that's why he perfected his jump kick techniques.
"SHINGO KICK!"
*CRACK*
Robert took a sharp kick right in the side of the neck that sent him smashing into the ground. Shingo rolled away and got back on the defensive while watching his opponent strain from the first blow. The first attack of the match went to Shingo.
After making a mental note to not underestimate Shingo's intelligence over his quickness, Robert got up and dusted himself off. Shingo stood there looking as strong as he ever did waiting for Robert to make his next move.
"Hien Shipuu Kyaku!" Robert cried while flailing a series of roundhouse and back swinging kicks in mid air. Shingo took every one of them in his arms but it didn't seem to faze him one bit. He took them in stride and prepared an onslaught of his own.
"Bodiga amaize!"
Shingo's fist caught empty air. He looked down only to see his worst fear; being on the receiving end of a counter attack.
"SORYA!"
Robert's foot cracked Shingo's delicate chin. He was taken into the air like a paper airplane and ended up crashing on the hard South Town street. Shingo didn't know what hurt worse, the face or the back. One thing was for sure, he wasn't going to win this fight lying down.
Shingo picked himself up, slowly at first, and then resumed his fighting stance. It would take more than one hit to knock him out of this fight and he was determined to prove his master Kyo that he was a serious fighter.
"Donai shitan ya?" Robert taunted. He calmly waved his hand at him telling him to proceed with his next attack. That was a spark that set of Shingo's blaze.
Shingo started blasting Robert with attacks as if there was no tomorrow. None of them connected in any of the sweet spots but still, Robert could feel the heart and soul of the kid in each and every one of his punches and kicks.
"SHINGO KICK!" He cried while trying to slam Robert's shoulder again. Robert blocked it with the back of his forearm and then rolled it around so no he had Shingo's foot in his grasp and proceeded to toss him onto the other side of the arena.
Shingo caught himself and rolled just before falling. Anyone who wasn't paying attention would never tell the difference between Shingo and Kyo after seeing that maneuver. After picking himself up, he prepared for the worst from the projectile wielder.
"Ryu Geki Ken!"
Shingo jumped over the orange disc and went for a flying kick. Robert swayed away and before he could take another breath, Shingo was at it again, fists-a-flying.
Robert took every strike in stride. This kid may be a little too over his head but he could sure pack a punch. Before long, it was Robert who ended up cornered between and shoe store and a bar and that's where Shingo really started to hammer it.
Shingo had never felt this way in his entire life. He was pretty much owning Robert as he just sat there taking punches. The fire that built within him had final taken the external road.
"BODIGA AMAIZE!"
Robert's head was rocked by a flame covered fist. His body smashed against the brick exterior wall and collapsed shortly after. Shingo looked over at the sight and was amazed beyond belief. He finally mastered the Wild Bite and knocked out his opponent. He only wished that his master Kyo was here to see it.
"Ore no… KACHI DA!" He cried in victory while throwing his fist in the air in true Kyo Kusanagi fashion. If only he saw what the fans in the arena were seeing now.
"SHINGO YOU IDIOT!" Benimaru yelled.
"Ryu Geki Ken!"
Shingo didn't have time to react. He saw the move coming for the third time in this fight and he could do nothing but block. He had no idea that this fight was still going on.
Robert's projectile dissipated right before hitting Shingo's body. Shingo looked up in astonishment, wondering if the flame was circling his body in an invisible manner.
"SHINGO!" Benimaru cried once more. He was already too late.
"Kyoukugen-ryuu Ougi!"
Shingo was caught. There was no place he was going but to the world of hurt.
"Sorya! Sorya! SORYA!" Shingo was torn up by series of kicks and punches the likes of which he never faced before. His body wouldn't forgive him after this.
"DONAI YA!" Robert cried while planting his foot right under Shingo's jaw. He elevated the young Kusanagi martial artist into the air. Benimaru slammed his palm on his forehead in disgust. Shingo was finished.
Shingo's body crashed onto the hard asphalt of the South Town street. He could feel bumps and bruises forming all over his chest and face and a part of him was glad that it was all over. The other part was ashamed on the performance that just took place.
"Way to go Rob!" Ryo cheered. Robert turned around and gave Ryo a half smile. Ryo could tell something was up but didn't show that in any physical emotion.
Benimaru stepped into the fighting square while watching Shingo be dragged out by Seth. He was still embarrassed but had to push that aside. "Hajimeoka," he states as he jumbles his hair a bit. The ladies in the arena loved that bit.
Robert resumed his fighting stance; it was half hearted if anything. His legs felt like they weighed a hundred pounds each. He tried to play it off but it wouldn't work against the second best martial artist in Japan; even though he considered himself the best.
"Rai Jin Ken!" A blast of blue lightning bursted into the air. Robert jumped back and held a defensive position. Benimaru never came close to actually hitting Robert, he only did it to prove a theory he had and after seeing Robert limp into a defense stance, that's all the proof he needed.
Shit! Robert cursed. His ankle was killing him. That last landing wasn't as smooth as it should have been. He only wished he could turn back time and go for the Haou Shoukouken.
Benimaru moved fast. Robert couldn't even check the movements. He figured lightning wasn't only an external part of his fighting style.
Before Robert could put his arms down he felt a sharp knee blast him straight in the gut. He spat forward; that was a mistake. Benimaru kicked him straight in his open mouth in the same style as his uppercut kick with a streak of electricity crashing into the open part of his chest.
Robert collided with an unforgiving street. He could feel his eight hundred dollar suit being torn from the left side but that wasn't his biggest problem. His problem stood only a few feet from him with tall blonde hair.
Robert jumped to his feet. He was determined to take Benimaru on with all of his strength; even if it was at half power.
"Ryu Geki Ken!"
Benimaru ducked right under it. Robert took his half-assed offense just a little too weakly to think he'd push Benimaru's buttons.
"Shinkuu Katategoma!" Benimaru took to the ground in what looked to be a break dance maneuver but was more effective as a fight ender.
Robert's ankle was on the brink of snapping in two. One strike was all that needed but Benimaru was a generous man and gave him four more. Robert crashed onto the ground clenching his foot.
Benimaru smiled. Robert was done but he wasn't.
"RAIKO-!"
*SMACK*
Benimaru never got the chance to release his electrical storm. His fist was well in the grasp of Takuma and there was nothing he could do about it.
"This fight is over…" Takuma stated. He released Benimaru's hand but didn't forget to get that last tight squeeze. Takuma picked Robert up and brought him to their corner.
"I guess I… Went a little too far," Robert coughed. Ryo gave an unsatisfying grin and looked over at King. She was still staring at Robert wondering how he could have been humbled like this.
"King," Ryo calmly interrupted.
"Y – Yea…?" She coyly asked.
Ryo didn't follow with a response. He hoped that his one word was enough to tell her to get into the fighting square. After a few brief moments of waiting, she began to move forward. A hand grasped her shoulder before she could move another step.
"Be careful."
King didn't look back. She didn't have to. She could recognize that voice in the deepest blizzard in the farthest region of the earth. King moved into the fighting square not even preparing a taunt. She just threw on her fighting stance and was ready to go.
Benimaru shook the hand that Takuma caught as if he here waving off the pain that came with it. "Hello lovely lady…" He plainly stated. "It's a crime that your friend wasted his striker attack on defending that male," A smile formed on Benimaru's lips as he continued, "I'd always be there for you…"
"Venom Strike!"
"Rai Jin Ken!"
Benimaru waved off King's first attempt at offence. "Heh… Feisty aren't you?" He grinned. "I like that in a woman."
King scoffed at that. This was the type of male that she was disgusted in. Chauvinistic, arrogant, thinking he's on top of the world and all that at the same time. She wanted to put him down worse than anything in her entire life.
"Tornado Kick!" King sprang forth. She wanted to take the offensive end at the start. Benimaru was taken back by the quickness and was actually forced to block the last kick.
Benimaru stood on the defensive, moving back and forth and side to side just to avoid the veritable lavender onslaught. King didn't hold back on any kick, she wanted to throw whatever she could to knock off that egotistical smile of his and keep it off.
Amazingly, Benimaru let his guard down long enough, leaving his lover half completely uncovered and awaiting punishment.
King went low with a weak roundhouse but that wasn't to be messed around with. The point of that kick was to get him thinking low and then follow up high. Three more kicks in succession struck Benimaru in head, chest, and legs once more.
Benimaru's body did a ninety degree turn to his right as if her were about to fall down. That was short lived.
"Rai Jin Ken!"
King gasped and crashed straight on her ass. Just the sound of that attack made her cringe. She was hit with that once before in the first King of Fighters tournament and it partially tore her blouse off. Looking up, she saw that not even a spark of electricity left his fist.
"You're cute, but stupid…" He calmly pointed out. "I would have gladly stayed away from touching your face if you offered me the same courtesy… But I guess that's gone now. I'm done toying around with you."
King did a back roll and sprang to her feet keeping her fists tight and close to her chest in the classic kick boxing defensive stance. Her breath hadn't fully caught up with her yet but she was trying.
"Yare Yare…" He chirped, trying to play off any seriousness she still had and taking out the last bit of humor he had left in his system. The real fight was about to begin.
Benimaru moved in fast. He swept through all sides of King's defense, making her head almost revolve a complete three hundred and sixty degrees. She was completely lost.
"Rai Jin Ken!"
King fell back as she did once before. She was lucky her instincts kicked in a lot faster than her mind.
"Shinkuu Katategoma!" Benimaru cried as he spun his body in its classic fashion. King took the first kick in the ribs and the next in the back. The other three missed completely. The first two had done there job as King was now on the ground, clenching her body as if it were about to explode.
Benimaru sprang up and kicked into his fighting stance. King was far from a defensive position so Benimaru took the initiative and went in for more free strikes.
"SURPRISE!"
Benimaru felt his jaw shoot up like a rocket and it almost took his head with it.
"ROSE!"
King soared down smashing heels into Benimaru's chest as she went. The move completely caught him off guard and he collapsed on the asphalt as if it where his new home.
Upon landing, King didn't waste a second and threw on her fighting stance. Benimaru wasn't on the ground for longer than a second before he sprang up in a show-boat fashion. He wiped his lip and noticed a small fountain of blood protruding from it.
"You… You're not as cute as I thought," he boldly pointed out. "No more Mr. Nice Nakaido!"
Benimaru dashed forward. His body moved so fast it almost seemed like an illusion and before King could even react, there was a knee in her stomach. An elbow strike followed right on the back of her neck as she doubled over. The second strike didn't cause her to collapse as Benimaru grabbed her by the lavender jacket and tossed her to the side.
"RAI JIN KEN!"
Benimaru's fist smacked King's sternum and her chest exploded in pain. She could hear her blouse being torn to shreds but there wasn't a draft of cool air to follow. The shirt must have held its integrity.
King crashed on the ground. She clenched her eyes and the rest of her body. This was the first time she'd ever felt pain like this. Benimaru was one of the best fighters around and his strength easily topped that of King's but he wasn't fighting to win. He was fighting for another reason.
King stood up but her body wouldn't allow her to resume her fighting stance just yet. The sound of crackling electricity caught her ear. Her head couldn't even turn to look at what was coming ahead. That sound was a little too familiar to her ears. It reminded her of the previous night, a night that really didn't go over well. She now felt something that she hadn't felt ever in a fight. Fear.
"KINGGGGG!" She heard being yelled from one corner. It was a familiar voice. A voice she heard just before going into the fight. A voice that she'd like to return to.
"GENEI HURRICANE!"
Benimaru's attack went on unscathed. Five hits in perfect succession and King took every one of them. Her body was lifted by all of the momentum and immediately shot down after gravity took its course.
"Kimatta na!" He cried while watching King's prone body. There wasn't an inch of fight left in her. Benimaru turned his head and shoulders slightly while pointing towards the camera and giving a little cheer to the fans after saying "Thank you…"
"BASTARD!" Ryo shouted. He was kneeling over holding King in his arms. Takuma immediately walked over to relieve Ryo of his caring duties.
"Oh… So you're the boyfriend?" Benimaru joked, "I hope you fight better than you choose your women."
Ryo growled at that last snide comment. He wasn't about to let Benimaru get away with what he just did.
"Hein Shipuu Kyaku!"
Benimaru's eye brows shot up like lightning but his body responded in a safer fashion. He swayed to the side and let Ryo completely pass him. If Ryo wanted to play with the big boys, he has his chance.
This guy… What a joke Benimaru thought. Wait until – WHAT THE?!
Ryo grabbed Benimaru's shirt, fell back and launched him into a brick wall. Benimaru slammed it so hard there was the faintest impression of his ass and lower back left in the red wall. Girls would be flocking there after tomorrow to just to see the marvelous; just a random thought that crossed his mind.
Benimaru hit the ground. A bit of brick debris came with him. The throw hurt but it wouldn't put him down for the rest of the fight. He was just about to pick himself up when another pair of hands came to aid him with that task.
Ryo tossed Benimaru into the same wall he hit before but not with as much power. Benimaru was still reeling from the first attack and too fazed to even think of blocking the next.
"Zan Retsu Ken!"
Benimaru took the fastest fists he ever felt right in his gut, chest, and face. There were at least ten but he wasn't counting. His head was being thrown about like a rubber ball and the last strike really crushed his jaw. Ryo finished him with an uppercut that threw Benimaru back once more but he immediately came back down.
Ryo caught Benimaru before he could even touch the fresh street. He threw him to the opposite side and Benimaru stumbled his way several meters before he finally stopped and regained his own balance.
"Kououken!"
That was the sound that kicked Benimaru right in the face and brought him back into the fight.
"Rai Jin Kin!"
Benimaru dissipated Ryo's projectile inches before it hit him. Ryo still had that menacing glare pasted on his face. His anger was a heavy fog on the surrounding area.
Blood trickled down the top of Benimaru's skull. His blonde hair was orange in some areas, a look that he thought to be sinful amongst the millions of fans tuning in. Ryo had just pushed Benimaru's final button.
Benimaru rushed in. There wasn't even a taunt to prelude it; it was a sign of his seriousness. He quickly maneuvered around Ryo, completely baffling the Kyokugen warrior and began his attack.
Ryo took a knee straight in his lower back. He screamed straightly thereafter but that wasn't the only amount of pain his body would feel in this relay.
"Shinkuu Katategoma!"
Benimaru spun around taking Ryo out from the back of the leg. Ryo took all five hits in his meaty calves and immediately tumbled on the black asphalt. Benimaru quickly jumped up and went after Ryo. He took a giant leap in the air and after floating for almost a single second, he came down like a spinning missile looking to drill Ryo's head into the hard street.
*CRASH*
Benimaru's feet dug into the asphalt with not a single spec of his opponent taking any hit. Ryo had rolled to the side and before Benimaru could keep his eyes open, Ryo was standing and already on the defensive.
Ryo held a guard. Benimaru was way too quick for him to strike first. Ryo could only wait and pray for an opening.
Benimaru charged forward only this time, was completely unorganized which was very different from his regular style. He threw kicks and punches at Ryo that hit all parts of the body but none of them seemed to really connect. Ryo took every blow and could feel his body being worn down after every hit. Benimaru looked like he could go like this for another couple of minutes. There was no way Ryo could.
Benimaru went for a roundhouse kick. Ryo caught his leg with both arms and before Benimaru could think of a counter, Ryo pushed his leg back and sent him stumbling backwards. Ryo could see Benimaru would be off balance for another second and this might be his only chance.
"Kyoukugen-ryuu Ougi!"
Nice try… Benimaru thought after quickly dispersing his off-balance act. "GENEI HURRICANE!"
*SMACK* *SMACK* *SMACK* *SMACK* *SMACK*
Before Ryo could even breathe he had taken five straight hits from the lightning fast Benimaru. Ryo's body lifted into the air and spun like a tornado before hitting the hard black asphalt.
"Kimatta na," Benimaru finished. He looked over and upon seeing a defeated Ryo he cracked a smile; but he wasn't finished with him yet. Benimaru walked over and picked Ryo up from off of the ground. He could barely stand on his own legs. Benimaru looked him dead in the eye and growled just before he pulled his fist back and charged it with electricity.
"RAIKO-!"
"ICHIGEKI HISSATSU!"
*CRACK*
"GRYAAAAAHHHHHH!" Benimaru cried. He crossed his arms over his chest and watched as his body twitched as a response to all of the pain he had just felt. He fell to the ground and it was the only place he really wanted to be right now.
Ryo stood strong with his arm extended forward. He still had heavy breaths but it was just starting to level off. He looked down at Benimaru after regaining a normal stance and saw that there was nothing left to worry about. Benimaru was out of the fight.
A great sigh left Ryo's breath. That was the single most intense fight he had ever been in. Now he could concur that Benimaru truly was one of the strongest fighters in Japan.
Without allowing another passing moment, Lin jumped into the fighting square. He was a unique fighter new to this year's tournament. His outfit was very unusual and he was completely silent even in movements.
Ryo turned and faced this new opponent. He was exhausted but never showed it physically. Sweat beaded down almost every part of his body. Before even throwing on his fighting stance he threw off the top part of his gi. Ryo flexed his muscles as tight as they would stretch and then broke into his Kyokugen stance. He was ready.
Lin struck first. He thrusted his hand at Ryo before he could even blink. His red, knife edge slash cut Ryo's stomach just as he was trying to avoid the attack. Blood spewed out quickly there after and left Ryo to clench his wound hoping to stop the bleeding as soon as possible.
Lin didn't let up. He followed with a straight palm strike to Ryo's chest and finished him off with a slashing upper cut. Ryo hit the ground hard wondering how in the hell could he be put down like that after only three hits.
Ryo coughed and a few drops of blood found there way through his teeth. He slid his body back step by step. Lin never moved from his position but Ryo was always mindful of his opponent's intentions. He picked himself up as quickly as he could and got back in his Kyokugen stance, blood was still dripping down his stomach.
Lin jumped forward with speed and balance that was completely new to Ryo's knowledge. Ryo prepared his block high as Lin kicked away at Ryo's arms. Every hit was like a sledgehammer striking at full blast.
Ryo thought the worst was over but his thoughts were never helpful in a fight. Lin struck his final kick right under Ryo's defense and smacked his chin. Ryo crashed on the asphalt not even knowing which part of his body to concentrate on. There was nothing more his body could do.
What are you doing on the ground?! He spat at himself.
I'm… I'm done.
No you're not!
…
GET UP! And prove you are a warrior!
What for?
Defeat is not an option!
Then what is?
Your heart…
What?! What are you talking about?
Focus on your heart… Then you'll see.
Ryo didn't understand a word of what was going on. He wondered if other people had trouble like this then thought nothing of it. He lifted his head up and saw Lin just standing there as if he was waiting for Ryo to get up and finish. Ryo sprang up from his position; the adrenaline hit him pretty hard and he was ready to go.
Lin raised an eyebrow. Whoever this guy was, he sure had a lot of heart but not a lot of intelligence.
Ryo turned to the side. Both of his hands were close together standing next to his right hip. His arms tightened and began charging the all of the energy his body had left. Wind sprang up from all of the intensity which blew his blonde hair in all sorts of directions.
Come on Ryo think! He yelled at himself. You cannot let them down now! For your father! For your friend! For… For…
King.
"HAOUUUUUU!" He cried. More energy sprouted from his body and the winds picked up with a whole new passion. Lin looked over with a confused and intrigued expression. He had no idea what to think but knew if he didn't think soon, he would lose this fight and his one chance at information.
Lin had a plan. As soon as he saw any type of erratic movements from Ryo, he would teleport behind him and let him have it. It was quite simple really. All he needed to do was wait for his cue.
"SHOKOU-"
There!
"KENNNNNN!"
*CRASH*
Ryo released his projectile attack. His arms wanted to pop every vein in them and he could feel the last of his bodily juices being spewed out into his one final assault. He wanted to crash on the ground and die but not until he saw what was left of his opponent.
There was a giant hole breaking into the shoe store. Lin was no where in site. Referees and camera men immediately ran inside to see what had happened. Ryo stood up for as long as was necessary until one of the referees ran out. He raised his arm towards the Kyokugen corner. Lin was out cold.
Just… One… Hit…? Ryo thought before he collapsed on the ground. The corners of his eyes swelled up and the last thing he saw was the blinking lights of the South Town plaza all shut off at once.
"RYO!" Robert yelled as he limped over to Ryo. He knew he had to stay off his foot but he didn't care, his friend was hurt.
Takuma didn't run over immediately. He looked over and saw the only remaining member of the Benimaru team not showing any emotion at all. Seth just walked away as if the rest of the night was none of his business. Takuma didn't have any business with him but it was always a good idea to keep his eyes open.
Speaking of which, he looked down and saw that King was finally up. She looked over at the situation after finally regaining herself. The sight that was before her wanted to make her cry.
"RYOOOOOOO!"
"How did it go?"
"Just as planned sir."
"Good. Everything is going well."
"Sir?"
"What is it?"
"Why did you want me to throw the fight? I thought you wanted the strongest fighters."
"I do. And now I have them."
"…"
"Prepare the final setting. The weapon is ready to be turned on for the first time and we wouldn't want to keep our guests waiting."
"Yes sir."
Terry Bogard and Ryo Sakazaki… What mysteries and strengths do you both hide?
(Author Notes: Woooooo! How about that? I am feeling good with this story. Everything is shaping up so nicely. Don't you think so? I'm sorry it took so long for this chapter to come out but my new job is a killer on my time and I can't balance everything all at once. I hope you guys are enjoying the story as much as I am. Sorry if the fights seem a bit short but I'm trying to keep the story aspect of the fiction as blatant as possible. Next up is the final round of the KOF Tournament and its shaping up to be a real good one. Keep those reviews coming because that's what motivates me to write. I'm surprise at my numbers being one of the longest KOF fics on the site. Oh well, guess Terry and Ryo can't win them all. Take it easy guys and I'll see you next chapter.)
