Rakka eda ni kaerazu

~ Fallen blossoms do not return to branches ~

-- a Japanese proverb

Chapter Twelve: Shohoku vs Shoyo

Summer, Present

Kanagawa, Japan

Kawasaki residence

The match she had hoped the team would play had arrived. Yet, half of her wished they would not be playing. Shohoku versus Shoyo.

One, who gave her life.

One who gave her hope.

Yet, weren't life and hope the same thing?

Michiko sighed as she lay on her bed. The game between Shohoku and Shoyo would see her hurting someone.

Was it to be Fujima or Kogure?

Summer, Present

Kanagawa, Japan

A stadium

The two teams met each other head-on. At stake was the right to play in the final playoffs for the two tickets to the Inter High. No one wanted to back down.

Shoyo's coach, captain and ace, Fujima Kenji, was sitting calmly on the bench. "They don't know anything about basketball. Let's beat them." His voice was one of calm, reassurance. His players nodded, and the determination etched on their faces was unmistakable. They would win. They had to.

Michiko watched the preparations of both teams with interest and dread. She wasn't on the bench this time, but in the stands. Watching and waiting. Waiting for the result of the clash that would end someone's summer dreams.

The game began.

Shohoku won.

Michiko cried.

Tears of joy and tears of sadness.

Fujima looked up at the scoreboard. His heart was breaking. They had come so close. Yet were left so far.

Kogure looked up at the scoreboard. His heart was soaring. They had come this far. They had done it.


Disclaimer: Slam Dunk and its characters aren't mine......

Author's Notes:
Exams are over, but I've been rushed off my feet with so many other events. Well...this chapter's really short. the next one's a biggie. Wait for it, and meanwhile, review please! ^_____^

maemi: Yeah, I like Ryo/Aya too!

tensaispira: Thanks for the well-wishes!

DiaBLo: 42.5%??? Study hard this hols!

Joy: Exams are over!

renei: Hang in there...the fun begins soon.

sLL: I'll email you when I post!

nanami27: Yup, original idea's still intact. Thanks for dropping by!

shiroiokami: I'm doing you a grave injustice...but I haven't had time to make the necessary editions to the errors you pointed out! Gomen! Rest assured I'll be on to it as soon as my schedule frees up. The next time that comes round is this Wednesday...I hope nothing gets in the way...

cookies: I loved the practice game...and just about every game after...





till next time...

~rurouni