My Angel Story
Disclaimer: Hi everyone! Chapter 4 is here! Only one chapter left before Kiyoko and
Raishinshi head for the Tokyo Prelims. I'm probably gonna make some
error about the fighting moves, but go easy on me, I don't know a lot of
karate moves. Feel free to e-mail me fighting moves if you like, 'cause I'm
not that good. Anyway, I don't own Angelic Layer or any of the original
characters. But I DO own Kiyoko, Angel Raishinshi, Kiyoko's family and
friends, Tamiko, Angel Youzen, and any other characters that are newly
mentioned characters.
Battle 4: "Don't Worry Tamiko! Kiyoko's Decision!"
The crowd was roaring as the battle continued. It was an Angelic Layer Tournament being held in a town not to far away from Kiyoko's neighborhood. Everyone in the area was watching the match, either in the stadium or outside, watching the TV's. The battle was halfway over, the timer at 5 minutes, but the audience was still watching and cheering, expectantly.
Inside the Layer were two Angels. In the East Corner was a female Angel dressed in red with chin-length pink hair, a red and black headband with a white point on each side, and dark pink eyes. She was looking at her opponent with determination. Her opponent was also a female Angel and a bit taller than the other. She was dressed in black with purple boots and spiked shoulder guards, waist length black hair, and dark violet eyes. She stood in a battle position.
The black Angels' Damage was at 50% while the red Angel was at 80%. The black Angels' Deus, a blond-haired girl in a high school uniform, looked tense. The red Angels' Deus, on the other hand, bore a steady expression. The blond Deus grit her teeth and leaned forward. The black Angel brought her fists up and charged as the red Angel put up her guard. The red Angels' Deus was 15 years old and had short brown hair with a brown lock hanging on each side of her head. She wore a brown and gray-skirted uniform: the Eriol Academy High School uniform. She watched her Angel carefully.
The black Angel was within striking distance. She started to execute a volley of punches at the red Angels' face. The red Angel ducked and dodged them all. The black Angel executed, then, a right forward kick. The red Angel caught her foot and through it over the black Angels' head, making her flip over onto her stomach. The black Angel, still lying on the Layer surface, tried to execute a low kick, but the red Angel front-flipped over her. The black Angel got up and ran after her. The red Angel spun around, the two red cords attached to her headband swirling around her body. She let loose a right spin kick, hitting the Angel in the left side, and sending her flying across the Layer.
The blond Deus was getting desperate. The black Angel got up and ran at the red Angel. The red Angel waited until the other Angel was close enough before jumping into a back flip, one leg extended. The extended foot caught the black Angel under the chin and sent her flying once more. She crashed into the Layer and, this time, she didn't get back up. Her Damage Gauge dropped to 0, the timer stopped at 3 minutes, and the buzzer sounded.
The audience started to cheer as loud as they could. The blond Deus gasped while brunette Deus smiled.
"And that's a knockout!" the announcer cried, "Hikaru Win!"
The audience cheered even louder as the red Angels' Deus stood up.
"That was a fantastic performance of strength and agility! What a match!" the announcer continued as the brunette removed her Angel Goggles, "everyone give Suzuhara Misaki a big hand! She now qualifies for the Nationals!!"
The brunette looked up at the ecstatic audience with bright sky blue eyes. She smiled and waved.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
"Oh wow! That was COOL!!" Kiyoko cried, watching the red Angel from Tamiko's TV screen.
Ken leaned forward in excitement.
"Hikaru rocks!" he shouted, punching the air above.
Takumi arms folded, gave his friend a glance.
"She's been the Angelic Layer Champion for 3 years," he huffed, "so of course she's good."
Today was Wednesday and Kiyoko and her friends had just left school and were watching a Layer Battle that was on. Matches were always shown on a certain channel and Tamiko's TV was the only one that had the station. One of the perks of her father being wealthy. The match had just ended and the latest info on Angelic Layer was coming up next. The kids paid no mind as they continued to chat.
"Hikaru's soooo cool!" Ken cried, hardly able to hold in his excitement, "it's no wonder she beat Athena!"
"And to find out that Suzuhara was the daughter of Athena's Deus," Yuri voiced from the couch, "it's no wonder that she has talent."
Tamiko nodded. She and Yuri were seated on her blue sofa while Kiyoko and the boys sat on the gray-blue carpet in front of the TV. Tamiko turned to Kiyoko.
"Your Dad's a popular Deus in Northern Tokyo, right Kiyoko?" she asked.
Kiyoko turned to her and nodded.
"Well," Tamiko continued, "maybe you stand a chance in the Tournament this year."
Kiyoko frowned. The topic of her and Raishinshi entering the Tournament had come up the other day, but she had yet to decide on whether she'd participate or not.
"I don't know," she admitted, "I'm thinking about it."
"You'd better hurry up," Takumi said, "the last day to sign up is Friday."
Kiyoko swallowed. She'd always wanted to enter a Tournament. Like this, but she never knew that it'd come so fast. Not to mention she was a little worried. After seeing how her fight on Monday was, she was worried about failing Raishinshi. But after yesterday's dance session with the strange girl, some of her confidence had been returned. But she was still a bit worried.
"Stop pouring on the pressure, Takumi," Yuri scolded, "let her choose on her own."
Takumi shrugged. Tamiko looked at her friend, thoughtfully.
"Say, Kiyoko?" she spoke up.
"Hm?" Kiyoko asked, turning away from the TV.
"Would you like to come practice with me at Piffle Princess?" Tamiko asked.
Kiyoko blinked.
"Huh?" she asked, blankly.
"Well, I've already signed up for the Tournament, so I need to practice," Tamiko explained, "and since you seemed to like practicing from the other day, I wondered if you and Raishinshi would like to come."
Kiyoko blinked again and then smiled.
"Well, sure," she agreed, "when do we leave?"
Tamiko hopped up from her couch.
"Now if it's alright with you," she said.
Kiyoko nodded and turned to the boys.
"Do you want to come too, Ken? Takumi?" she asked.
Ken frowned.
"I can't," he grumbled, "I've gotta baby-sit my sister tonight for my folks."
Takumi nodded.
"Yeah, and Yuri and I are due home," he said, "we're having company over."
Kiyoko frowned, but nodded. Tamiko ran for her room down the hall.
"Just let me get Youzen and my sneakers and I'll be right there!" she called.
Kiyoko called an affirmative and turned to Yuri.
"If I decide to enter the Tournament, how do you think I'll do?" she asked, nervously.
Yuri smiled, but shook her head.
"I can't say for sure," she said, softly, "but as long as you have confidence, you'll be fine."
Kiyoko nodded and got up as Tamiko came out of her room, sneakers on her feet and Angel in hand. Ken and the others got up to go as well, but not before a TV announcement caught Takumi's attention.
"...and the Tournament is going to be having a special event for the new National champ this year," the male announcer said, a picture of the Angelic Layer stadium showing on screen, "the commissioner is sponsoring this event and the Angelic Layer Staff is hoping that it will go as according to plan. The outcome, they say, will be a fantastic turnout, if all goes well."
"Hey, Takumi!" Ken called, "c'mon!"
Takumi sighed and turned off the TV.
(Wonder what the special event is?) he wondered, taking his coat and running out the front door.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Kiyoko had to make a quick stop at her house to pick up Raishinshi and then she and Tamiko went on their way to Piffle Princess. The store wasn't too crowded, so Tamiko and Kiyoko had no problem getting past the foyer and heading to the sign up desk.
"Excuse me," Tamiko said, politely, "we would like to rent a Layer for practicing."
The lady at the desk smiled.
"Do you have an Angel Card?" she asked.
Tamiko fished around in her pocket and pulled out a pink card that had 'Angelic Layer' written on the top inside a cute gold crown with wings on the side. Below the logo was Tamiko's name and Youzen's name. It was an Angel Card, a sort of Membership Card.
"Here," Tamiko said, handing her card to the lady while Kiyoko watched.
The lady took the card, ran it through the card reader, and then handed it back to Tamiko along with a piece of paper.
"Here you go," she said, smiling, "you've got Layer 4."
"Thanks!" both girls said in unison, giggled, and ran up the stairs.
The Practice Room was pretty full. Layer 4 was in the back of the room, past the Layer by the window that Kiyoko had practiced on. She and Tamiko made a beeline for it. Once there, Tamiko look her seat on the left, and Kiyoko took hers on the right.
"You remember what to do?" Tamiko asked, putting Youzen in a standing position on the Layer.
Kiyoko nodded, but then stared at what Tamiko was doing.
"Uh," she murmured, "aren't you supposed to throw your Angel into the Layer when you turn it on?"
Tamiko picked up the Angel Goggles on her side and put them on.
"No, not really," she said, "you can just set them on the Layer and then turn it on."
Kiyoko gave a slow nod and picked up her Angel Goggles.
(If that's true,) she wondered, putting the goggles on, (then how come Mr. Icchan wanted me to throw Raishinshi into the Layer rather than place him in the Layer?)
Tamiko leaned over and pressed on the button that turned on the Layer. The Layer surface lit up and the force field shimmered into sight before fading again. Kiyoko looked down at Raishinshi and smiled.
(Wake up, Raishinshi,) she thought, kindly.
Raishinshi slowly lifted his head and opened his bright brown eyes. He looked up at her and that's when she noticed there was a slight, red-orange tint to his eyes. Just like his Anime counterpart.
On the other side of the Layer, Tamiko was waking up Youzen.
(Practice time Youzen,) she thought, cheerfully.
Youzen raised his head and opened his bright violet eyes. He looked up at Tamiko, who smiled down at him.
"How should we practice?" Kiyoko asked.
Tamiko smiled and had Youzen turn to face her friend.
"I guess I could show you a few moves, first," she offered.
Kiyoko smiled and nodded. Raishinshi turned to face Youzen. Youzen then started walking towards the middle of the Layer. Raishinshi went to join him. They stood side by side.
"First," Tamiko said, "let's see how good Raishinshi can punch."
Kiyoko nodded. Raishinshi moved forward a couple steps. Then, he threw a right jab, then a left, and repeated this action twice before stopping. Tamiko gave him a smile.
"That's good," she said, then focused on Youzen, "try this."
Youzen moved forward and executed a right hook and then a left hook. Kiyoko swallowed and had Raishinshi mimic the move. He did it okay, but it was a little slow.
"Can't you make him strike faster?" Tamiko asked, "like last time?"
Kiyoko frowned.
"I'll try," she said, and refocused.
Raishinshi threw a right and left hook, this time a little faster.
"Okay," Tamiko said, pleased, "how's his kick?"
Kiyoko smiled.
"I got that one down okay," she said, focusing on a move.
Raishinshi threw a right jab, then a left, right, left, and then did a right upwards kick. He then spin-kicked with his left leg and then his right. He then pushed off with his left foot, spun around twice, then kicked out with his left foot on his second spin. As he came to a halt, Tamiko stared.
"Hey, that's good," she admitted, "how about this one?"
Youzen cart-wheeled into a handstand, moved himself in a circle with his hands, and swung his legs out and around. Kiyoko frowned.
"I've seen it, but I can't do it," she pouted.
Tamiko had Youzen get back on the ground. She frowned as well.
"Can you at least try?" she asked.
Kiyoko looked at Raishinshi and nodded. Raishinshi cart-wheeled into a handstand and moved himself in a circle with his hands. But as he stuck out his legs, he began wobbling. And, with a silent gasp, he toppled over on his stomach. Kiyoko frowned and shook her head.
"I can't do it," she said, feeling disappointed, "it's too hard for Raishinshi."
Tamiko gave her friend a kind smile.
"I'm sure you'll get it right eventually," she said, reassuringly, "don't you have a Practice Layer at home you can work on?"
Kiyoko looked up and nodded.
"Yeah, it used to be my Dad's," she said, "he used to let me watch him practice with his Angel. I don't go there much now. I get sad all over again."
Tamiko nodded. Ever since her Dad left, Kiyoko always felt a little down. Even though he and Kiyoko's mom were still married, and he called and visited on special occasions, it still wasn't the same. And lately, Kiyoko's father hadn't stopped by or called like he usually did and Kiyoko saw him less and less.
"I hardly see him anymore," Kiyoko continued, "but Mom said that he promised to call next Wednesday. So, I'll talk to him then."
Tamiko nodded again in understanding. She looked at the Layer and at Youzen.
"My Dad is hardly home himself," she admitted, "he runs a big company and doesn't have a lot of time to stop by. He doesn't even have time to see my matches. But he promised that this time he'd find time to watch my fights. So, who knows? Maybe your Dad will come to your matches once you enter the Tournament."
" 'If' I enter," she said, her frown now registering on Raishinshi's face.
Tamiko sighed.
"We gotta stop depressing ourselves," she said, trying to lighten the mood, "do 'you' have any moves to show?"
Kiyoko brightened a bit.
"Yeah," she said.
Tamiko smiled.
"You gonna show me?" she asked, eagerly.
Kiyoko thought for a moment.
"Nope," she finally said.
Tamiko's face fell.
"Why?" she asked.
Kyoko gave her a sheepish smile.
"'Cause I don't know them yet," she said, "I'd have to try them out on someone first."
Tamiko got eager again.
"You can fight with us," she pointed out, Youzen turning to face Kiyoko.
Kiyoko shook her head.
"I don't want to hurt Youzen," she said, "I don't want to hurt my best friend's Angel."
Tamiko blinked in surprise and smiled.
"Thanks Kiyoko," she said, warmly.
Kiyoko nodded and focused back on Raishinshi.
(I wonder,) she thought, ('would' Dad come to one of my matches if I asked him?)
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Somewhere else in Piffle Princess, in a secluded room, there was another Practice Layer. This one was surrounded by many lights, cameras, and wires. The Layer was on and a stereo was set on a table beside it. A man was in the Angel Seat that was to the left of the Layer. He wore a gray suit, blue tie, and brown pants: obviously he worked for a type of business. He had brownish-blond hair and as for his eyes...they were covered by a blue headset with a pink visor and wings on the side. He was focusing on a figure inside the Layer that was dancing to the Rap music that played over the stereo's speakers.
It was an Angel. A male Angel. He had ankle length silver hair that was tied in a blue band at his waist. Tied to the band was a silver Angel Cord that sparkled in the light. He wore a white, long-sleeved shirt that was close fitting. It was hemmed in sky blue and bore a silver crescent moon in the middle of the shirt. The moon was surrounded by a ring of gold that was also on the back of the shirt. He wore long white pants, hemmed in sky blue as well. He wore silver socks like how samurai's wore them. He had pale skin and deep silver eyes. He was currently dancing to the music, doing all sorts of dance moves, and yet, his expression was blank and seemingly sad.
In another room, a man in a dark brown suit and dark hair and a woman with a purple suit, black pants, and chin-length brown hair were watching through a glass window. The man was looking through some papers while the woman observed the man and Angel in the other room.
"Wow, he's performing pretty good," the man complemented, "he's the best model that was ever made."
The woman, still looking through the papers in her lap, replied.
"I'll agree with you there," she said, "the Chief really outdid himself. But I'm surprised he hasn't made any more of his type. It's been a confirmed program and yet I haven't seen it out in the market."
The man turned to the woman.
"I thought the Chief 'did' make another one," he implied.
The woman looked up.
"Well, I checked the system, and no more reports of the program has been issued," she stated and went back to reading, "you probably heard it wrong, or something."
The man thought a moment, then shrugged.
"Oh, well," he said, turning back to the window, "at least the 'special event' is in order."
The woman looked up again.
"Not quite," she said, "the commissioner still has a few papers to sign. After that, 'then' the event'll be ready."
The man watched the other man and the Angel through the window and sighed.
(The Chief sure seemed interested in a certain new Deus, according to Ogata anyway,) he thought, (I wonder if she has something to do with the event.)
He continued to think as the silver Angel continued his dance. The Angels' Deus watched him through the visor. Even though his eyes were hidden, they were sad.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
"Good movement," Tamiko said, "let's try it again."
Kiyoko nodded. For the past fifteen minutes, the two girls had practiced punching and kicking combos. They even invented a couple. Right now, Tamiko was sharing one of her best combos with Kiyoko, and Kiyoko seemed to have it down perfectly. Youzen and Raishinshi were side by side.
"Ready?" Tamiko asked.
"Yep," Kiyoko confirmed, and they began again.
In unison, Raishinshi and Youzen punched out with their right fists, then their lefts. They kicked out with their right legs, came down from the kick, turned with their right feet, and kicked out again with their lefts. And it didn't stop there. Both Angels' then came down from the kick, thrust their right fists forward, and finished the move with a forward left kick. And they both did it in sync, perfectly.
Kiyoko beamed and Tamiko clapped.
"Alright! That was good!" she cheered, "you'd SO totally be ready for the Official Tournament."
Kiyoko smiled lightly.
"I guess," she said, looking down at Raishinshi.
Tamiko shook her head.
"C'mon Kiyoko," the blond prompted, "I know you can do it. You just have to believe in yourself."
Kiyoko looked up. Her Dad had said the same thing to her when she first had doubts about playing Angelic Layer. But the thought of Raishinshi getting hurt was a little scary. What if she failed? Would she be worthy of being a Deus? Or even playing Angelic Layer?
"I know you're afraid that Raishinshi will get hurt," her friend continued, "but you never know what you can accomplish with your Angel if you don't try. Take Suzuhara Misaki for example. She won the Championship on her first time playing Angelic Layer. I'm sure you'll do good. And if you don't, there's always next year."
Kiyoko smiled at her friend.
"Thanks Tami-chan," she said, "I'll give it some thought. By the way, are you hungry?"
Tamiko blinked and looked at her stomach.
"Sorta," she admitted, "I skipped my after school snack."
Kiyoko nodded.
"Same with me," she said, pouting, "and Mom baked brownies too."
Tamiko brightened.
"Brownies?!" she cried, "the ones with the nuts?"
Kiyoko gave her a grinning nod.
"Yep, we can have some when we get home," she said, "but right now, I need some food."
"Me too," Tamiko agreed.
Raishinshi turned around and ran to the edge of the Layer. Kiyoko held out her hands. Raishinshi leapt out of the Layer and fell into Kiyoko's hands. Tamiko watched in a bit of confusion.
"What are you doing?" she asked as Kiyoko took off her Angel Goggles.
Kiyoko smiled down at her.
"Raishinshi and I are gonna get some food," she stated, "besides, I'm afraid to leave him alone in the Layer without me."
Tamiko smiled and nodded in understanding. With that, Kiyoko headed for the stairs, Raishinshi in hand. As she headed down the stairs, a pair of girls in High School Uniforms were heading up, passing her on the stairs. They reached the top of the stairs and began to look around.
"There aren't any Layers left," one said.
"We would have gotten here sooner if you didn't stop," the other snapped.
"Sorry, I was on the phone."
"You should've hung up!"
"But-"
"Never mind! Now what?"
"Well, we could wait for one to become free-"
"OR we could go there..."
Meanwhile, Tamiko was staring at Youzen, deep in thought.
(I know Kiyoko can do it if she only tries,) she thought, (she did great in her first match and she's been mimicking Youzen perfectly. Raishinshi is a good Angel, I know he won't fail Kiyoko. If only she'd-)
"Hey!"
Tamiko gave a start and looked up. A couple of High School girls in Eriol Academy Uniforms were looking down at her. One was tall with long brown- blond hair and ice blue eyes and the other was slightly shorter with chin- length dark hair and gray eyes. The short girl had an uneasy expression while the blond was looking down at her, sourly.
"Um...yes?" Tamiko asked, blinking in confusion.
The blond girl frowned.
"Someone sitting here?" she asked, indicating to Kiyoko's seat.
Tamiko nodded.
"Yeah, she went to get something," Tamiko said, casually.
The girl smiled and moved to the seat.
"Good, then there's time for a match," she said, pertly.
Tamiko's head shot up.
"HUH?!" she cried, she didn't expect that.
The blond picked up the Angel Goggles and put them on. Tamiko stared in confusion.
"Wh-what do you mean a 'match'?" she stammered, "this is a Practice Layer."
The blond sat down as the dark-haired girl moved beside her.
"Well, we're practicing," she said, defending her friend.
Tamiko's expression was a mixture of shock and confusion. The blond girl, meanwhile, took out her Angel. The Angel was female and quite muscular, obviously a Power type. She had blond hair that was tied up in a ponytail with a red Angel Cord hanging down from it. She wore body armor that looked like the kind in Ancient Roman armor. It was colored red and brown. She wore elbow-length, metallic yellow gloves and knee-high, gold metallic boots. A gold plated skirt hung around her waist and reached her knees. Her skin was of average tint and even though her eyes were closed, the Angel looked fierce.
"You ready?" the blond asked, smirking.
Before Tamiko could even protest, the girl began anyway.
"Show no mercy, Venus!" she cried, hurling her Angel into the Layer.
The Angel slid through the force field. Her pale green eyes shot open and she landed square on the Layer, her arms were up and flexing. The Angel smiled at Youzen, cockily.
"Wait!" Tamiko cried, now getting worried, "this is a Layer for practice only, not a real match."
The blond girl smirked at Tamiko.
"Then consider this a 'Practice Match'," she offered, "practice for Venus anyway."
Tamiko's eyes widened, as did Youzen's as he sensed his Deus' distress. But then Tamiko set her face firmly and got Youzen into a battle stance. She wasn't going to be intimidated by a bully.
"Angelic Fight!" the dark-haired girl announced.
It happened so fast. Venus ran full speed at Youzen. Youzen didn't even have time to react. Venus raised her fist and delivered a solid punch to Youzen's stomach. With a silent cry, Youzen flew back, eyes closed.
"Youzen!" Tamiko cried, her eyes wide with horror as her Angel crashed into the Layer, hard.
No sooner had Youzen landed did Venus run at him again. Youzen reacted fast this time, rolling to the left, narrowly missing Venus' punch. He then sprung up and ran at Venus as she straightened. With a fierce glare, Youzen delivered a fierce right hook to Venus' face. It connected, but Venus didn't budge. She just turned to Youzen and smiled. Both Youzen and Tamiko blinked in confusion.
"Guess I forgot to mention," the blond girl said, pertly, "Venus is a Heavyweight. Your Angel's probably a Lightweight, he doesn't stand a chance."
With that, Venus drew back her right fist and delivered a right hook that sent Youzen toppling to the ground. He didn't even get a chance to get back up. Venus gave him a fierce kick in the stomach, sending him flying. He landed only an inch away from the edge of the Layer. Tamiko gasped.
"Is that all you've got?" the blond taunted.
Tamiko gritted her teeth and Youzen shakily got up. The dark-haired girl shook her head.
(Rookies,) she thought, (never want to give it up.)
This time, Youzen rushed at Venus who merely smiled. Youzen leaped at Venus, right leg extended in a jump kick. Venus allowed the kick to impact, then grabbed Youzen's leg, raised him over her head by his leg, and smashed him down onto the Layer. He cried out silently. Tamiko gasped.
"Looks like you're not too tough by the looks of it," the blond commented.
Tamiko gritted her teeth.
(What now?) she thought, as Venus let go of Youzen with a smirk, (what can I do?!)
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
"This should be enough," Kiyoko said, looking down at the two snack bags she had acquired.
It had taken her a while to pick out the snacks, but she finally chose one bag of chips and one bag of cookies.
(Since Tamiko can't have brownies right now,) Kiyoko thought, heading for the stairs, (maybe she'll like some chocolate chip cookies.)
With Raishinshi in one hand and snack bags in the other, Kiyoko made her way back up the stairs. She wasn't aware that she was being followed. The boy who had watched her first match two days ago was following her up the stairs at a safe distance. His navy blue eyes locked on her back.
(This girl,) the boy thought as she neared the top, (something about her and the way she fought...it looks vaguely familiar.) He narrowed his eyes. (I think I'll watch her practice. 'Cause if I'm right on who I think she is...) he smiled, (...then our match 'should' be fun.)
Kiyoko skipped up the last steps as the boy kept to the shadows behind her. Kiyoko looked down at Raishinshi as she neared the corner of the Practice Room. She pondered what Tamiko had said.
(I wonder if I 'should' fight in the Tournament?) she thought, hesitating, (it's not just that I'm afraid of getting Raishinshi hurt, but about my promise to Dad. I said I'd ace all my matches once I entered. But in my last match, I could hardly keep up with that other Angel. But, then again, Mom wants me to try, Ken wants me to try, and so does Tamiko. Even Mr. Icchan and that girl from the other day want me to try. But, if I do, will I even make it past the Prelims?)
Kiyoko shook her head. The boy hid himself in another corner, behind her.
(I just don't know,) she thought with a sigh, (that last match was hard enough. How am I gonna beat a bunch of Layer Pro's in the Tourna-)
"YOUZEN!!"
Kiyoko's head shot up. That was Tamiko! Nearly dropping the bags she was carrying, Kiyoko ran for Layer 4. The boy was also curious about the scream and moved closer. Kiyoko stopped before the Layer when she saw what was happening.
There were two High School girls at the Layer: a blond girl and a dark- haired girl. The blond girl had on Angel Goggles and was sitting in the Angel Chair. There was another Angel in the Layer too. She wore her long blond hair up in a ponytail with a red Cord attached. She was dressed in Ancient Roman style armor colored red and brown. She was very muscular and was facing Youzen. Upon looking at him, Kiyoko's eyes widened.
Youzen was crouching on one knee and was holding his right shoulder. His right arm was limp and looked quite damaged. Tamiko's face was one of horror while the other girl wore a sickening cocky smile. The blond Angel charged again.
"STOP!" Kiyoko cried.
All three girls looked up, startled, and the armored Angel stopped halfway to Youzen. The blond girl narrowed her eyes at Kiyoko.
"Who're you?" she asked, rudely.
"Kiyoko!" Tamiko cried, sounding desperate.
Kiyoko ran to her friends' side.
"What's wrong, Tamiko?" she asked, worried.
Tamiko looked on the verge of tears.
"T-Those girls came a-and started to fight Youzen," she stammered, worried eyes on her Angel, "w-we didn't want to fight, b-but her Angel hurt him a lot, and n-now Youzen can't move his arm!"
The blond shrugged, indignantly.
"Not my fault her Angel is weak," she huffed, "I came to get ready for the Tournament and I've gotta practice somewhere. So, why not practice my moves on another Angel?"
Kiyoko turned burning eyes at the girl. If it was one thing she couldn't stand, it was bullies.
"You just don't barge in and start fighting with someone," she scolded, "you didn't even get Tamiko's permission!"
The blond girl narrowed her eyes at Kiyoko.
" 'I' don't need permission to fight," she snapped, "and don't tell me what to do!"
Kiyoko gave the girl another glare and turned to Tamiko.
"Have Youzen leave the Layer," she told her friend, steadily, "we're leaving."
Before Tamiko could reply....
"Hold it!" the blond girl yelled, "we're in the middle of fight. You can't just leave in the middle of a match!"
Kiyoko turned to her.
"My friend's Angel is too damaged to fight," she explained, trying to be calm, "go fight somewhere else."
The dark-haired girl scowled at Kiyoko.
"What gives you the right to give orders?" she snapped, "Suzu's a top ranking Deus. You're just a rookie. 'You' should go somewhere else."
Kiyoko shook her head.
"We were here first," she clarified, "you two just barged in. 'You' have no right to be here."
She turned back to Tamiko.
"Have Youzen jump out," she said.
But, Tamiko shook her head.
"I-I can't," she murmured, "he can't stand. I've tried twice, but he can't stand up."
Kiyoko grit her teeth. How dare these two bullies come and harm her friend's Angel. Weren't there rules against this? She turned back to the Layer.
"Then we'll shut the Layer off," she said, giving the two girls an angry look, "this isn't a 'real' battle anyway."
But as she went to turn off the Layer, the dark-haired girl came up, and blocked her.
"Real or not, this fight is still in progress," she said, "just give up and watch."
Kiyoko tightened her grip on the snack bags that were forgotten in her hands.
"Watch you hurt my friend's Angel? No way!" she declared.
"Then do something about it."
The girls turned to the blond girl, Suzu, who was looking straight at Kiyoko.
"Huh?" Kiyoko and the dark-haired girl said in unison.
Suzu smiled and looked at Raishinshi, who was still in Kiyoko's hand.
"That's your Angel isn't it?" she asked, " 'you' fight Venus."
Kiyoko blinked.
"No Kiyoko!" Tamiko cried, "Raishinshi'll just be hurt."
Suzu raised an eyebrow.
"Raishinshi?" she echoed, "that's a boy?" She smirked, slyly. "Looks like a girl."
Kiyoko stiffened, but didn't say anything. The dark-haired girl gave Kiyoko a disdainful look.
"They don't look like much, Suzu," she said, bluntly, "you think they stand a chance?"
Suzu shrugged.
"If she wants to stop this fight, she'd better accept," she said, simply.
Kiyoko looked at Youzen and then at Raishinshi.
(What if he gets hurt too?) she thought.
"Well?" the dark-haired girl snapped, "are you going to enter or not?"
Kiyoko looked indecisive.
"I....uh...," she stammered.
Suzu smiled.
"Guess that's what you get when your Angel looks too girly," she sniped, "you don't want to get them dirty."
Kiyoko stiffened again.
"That's not it," she said, "my Dad always told me never to listen to bullies."
"Awww," the dark-haired girl crooned, " 'Daddy's little girl'."
Kiyoko shot her a look.
"Just stop the match," she said, firmly, "there's no point to fight over this."
Suzu smiled knowingly.
"If you say that," she said, "your Angel 'must' be defective."
Kiyoko's head shot up and she turned to Suzu, eyes on fire.
"Raishinshi is NOT defective!" she snapped.
"Prove it!" Suzu dared, harshly, "give your Entry and have him fight Venus! Now!"
Kiyoko knew she was cornered. She couldn't back out of this mess. She glanced down at Raishinshi. He was oblivious to what was happening. Could he beat her? Kiyoko looked up and glared at Suzu before heading for Tamiko.
"Let me," she told her, hand out, waiting for the Angel Goggles.
Tamiko's eyes widened.
"But, she'll ream you," she said, very worried.
Kiyoko sighed.
"I've got to do it," she said, "it's the only way to get Youzen and you out of this mess. And maybe it'll get those girls to leave." She reached out again. "Please?"
Tamiko hesitated, but nodded, and took off the Angel Goggles. Youzen closed his eyes on the Layer and waited patiently in his uncomfortable position. Tamiko handed the Goggles to Kiyoko and got up from the chair. Kiyoko sat down, placed Raishinshi on the Layers' edge, and put on the Goggles. She picked up Raishinshi and stared down at him.
(Do your best,) she thought.
Meanwhile, in a corner by the Layer, the boy watched Kiyoko, curious.
"Let's go, Raishinshi!" Kiyoko cried, throwing him into the Layer with all her might.
Raishinshi slid through the force field. Once through, his brown-red eyes opened wide. He front flipped into a standing position and floated down to the Layer surface. Once he landed, he turned to Youzen.
(He landed right, at least,) Tamiko thought, pensively.
Raishinshi walked over to Youzen, bent down, and picked him up as an adult would a child. He turned to Kiyoko and headed for the Layer edge.
"Get ready to catch him, Tamiko," Kiyoko said, eyes not leaving her Angel.
Tamiko nodded and held her hands out. Once by the force field, Raishinshi gently tossed Youzen out of the Layer. Going through the force field, Youzen landed limply in Tamiko's hands. Tamiko backed away from the Layer and held Youzen close. That done, Raishinshi turned back to an impatient Venus and walked back to where he had landed: a foot in front of Kiyoko. He faced the female Angel, a mad look on his face.
"Ready?" Kiyoko asked, steadily.
Suzu smirked and nodded. The dark-haired girl faced the Layer and smiled as well.
"Well then," she said, "Angelic Fight!"
Venus charged at Raishinshi without wasting a second. Raishinshi tensed into a boxing position. Venus drew back her right fist and threw Raishinshi a right hook. He ducked the blow by a hair's inch. Venus threw a left jab that Raishinshi dodged. Venus then charged him. Raishinshi quickly front flipped over Venus and landed behind her. Venus turned and gave him a smirk, like the one Suzu had.
"Not bad," she commented, "but it'll take more than dodging to beat Venus."
Venus charged again, fist raised. Raishinshi backed up and tensed. Venus swung a left hook that Raishinshi had to jump back to avoid. Venus charged again and, this time, executed a right side kick. Raishinshi sidestepped to avoid that one. Venus quickly turned to him and let loose a volley of jabs. With extreme efforts of both Angel and Deus, Raishinshi managed to dodge all the punches. But they kept on coming. Kiyoko swallowed.
(I can't keep dodging,) she told herself, (I've gotta fight back!)
Once again, Raishinshi front flipped over his opponent. Before Venus could turn around, Raishinshi moved in, and delivered a fierce right kick to her back. But it hardly seemed to affect Venus. She merely turned around and smiled evilly down at Raishinshi. Without so much as a warning, Venus delivered a fierce right upper cut. Raishinshi's head snapped back as he sailed through the air, backwards.
"Raishinshi!" Kiyoko cried.
Raishinshi landed on his back. His eyes opened slowly and he staggered to his feet.
(W-why didn't Venus fall down like Vesta did when I hit her?) Kiyoko thought, puzzled.
Suzu smiled, as did Venus. Venus ran at her fallen foe and raised her fist. Raishinshi had to back flip in order to avoid being hit. He landed on his feet and did a reverse right spin kick. The back of his heel connected with the left side of Venus' face. Venus' head turned to the right, but she didn't seem fazed like most Angels were after a blow. Raishinshi moved to attack again, throwing a punch. But Venus caught his fist and flipped him over on his back. Kiyoko gasped.
"You must have a Lightweight too," Suzu said, casually, "too bad. You're gonna wind up like your friend."
Kiyoko flinched.
"What do you mean?" she asked, starting to feel a little nervous.
The dark-haired girl faced her.
"Venus is a Heavyweight, Power type," she explained, "Heavyweights have an advantage over Lightweights. Your Angel's going to lose."
Kiyoko clenched her teeth.
(We're not going to quit,) she thought, making Raishinshi stand up, (we'll show them.)
Raishinshi raised his guard as Venus charged. She struck him with a right jab. Even though Raishinshi was blocking, he still skidded back quite a ways, stopping near the edge of the Layer. He quickly ran to the left as Venus moved in for the kill and got back to the middle of the Layer. Venus lunged at him drawing back her fist. Raishinshi sidestepped, but Venus wasn't finished. She recovered from her punch quickly, still in mid-air, and placed both hands flat on the Layer. She spun around with her legs out. She hit Raishinshi in the right side of the face, sending him sprawling.
"Like I said," Suzu said, snidely, "you're gonna wind up like your friend.
The boy watched from his hiding place. He didn't like what the bullies were doing, but this was Kiyoko's fight. She had something to prove. At the moment, however, Kiyoko didn't know what to do.
(What do I do?) was all she could think as she watched Venus approach.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Icchan hummed to himself as he marched up the stairs to the Practice Room in Piffle Princess. He had Ogata monitor Kiyoko's movements basically by installing a camera at Piffle Princess. Why? Because, if she was anything like the person he knew, 'practice' would be the first place she'd go. And besides, since his work kept him away half the time with the 'special event' and all, he had to make sure she stayed out of trouble. He was in a particularly happy mood today because of a special treat he had for his 'student'.
He headed up the stairs with a smile on his face, but it soon turned into a look of surprise when he saw what was going on in the Layer. Kiyoko was facing off against a Deus that he was familiar with in Angelic Layer. Raishinshi was going up against an armored Angel that was obviously a Power type. The armored Angel was currently executing a left forward kick that sent the purple Angel flying back a foot. Icchan immediately scowled at the sight.
"Having an unofficial battle like this inside a practice Layer," he said to himself, "that's not playing very fair. Especially with the advantage that Angel has over Raishinshi. They forced this on Kiyoko, no doubt about it."
He was about to move forward when he noticed the expression on Kiyoko's face. It was set in fierce determination. Only three people he knew showed that expression. And seeing it on his latest student, he had to smile, despite the situation.
(On the other hand,) he thought, (she might need something like this.)
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Kiyoko watched Venus, tensely. She was currently waiting for her opponent to make a move. Raishinshi was in a defensive stance and was staring straight at Venus. Tamiko watched her friend in concern, Youzen held to her chest. Kiyoko checked Raishinshi's damage and winced. His face, arms, and stomach area were damaged quite a bit.
(Now what?) she thought, (I can't let Raishinshi get hurt anymore, he can't take another hit. But how can I win? Raishinshi's attacks have hardly any affect on her Angel.)
Venus began to slowly advance on Raishinshi.
(I can't win by brute force,) Kiyoko thought, keeping a close eye on Venus, (I have to knock Venus out of the Layer. But how?)
Venus' pace began to increase. At that moment, however, a thought entered Kiyoko's head. It was something she had seen earlier in the day. It gave her an idea.
(Let's go, Raishinshi!) Kiyoko thought, confidence rising.
As Venus approached, Raishinshi darted to the left, and began running by the edge of the Layer.
"What's she doing?" Suzu mumbled, confused as to why a Deus would make her Angel go anywhere near the Layer's edge.
Never the less, Venus followed Raishinshi, who was now practically running right by the Layer's edge. Venus followed him, also going to the Layer's edge. And she was gaining on him.
"Kiyoko!" Tamiko cried as Venus began to close in.
The boy who was watching frowned a bit, but still raised an eyebrow. (Interesting,) he thought.
As Venus began to draw closer to Raishinshi, Kiyoko was silently timing her move.
(Wait, wait, wait, and-) she thought, holding her breathe.
Venus was upon Raishinshi at that moment.
"Ha!" Suzu cried in triumph.
Venus smiled and drew back her fist.
"Now!" Kiyoko cried.
Raishinshi stopped running and spun around, the violet Angel Cords attached to his upper arms swirling around his body. He let loose a left spin kick that hit Venus on the right side of her face. Caught off guard, Venus' eyes widened and she let out a silent gasp as she stumbled,.....and fell out of the Layer.
Suzu gasped in disbelief as she watched Venus fall to the floor and land with a loud thud. The dark-haired girl stared down at the fallen Angel in shock while Tamiko gave her friend a look of surprise. Kiyoko, meanwhile, sighed with relief. Raishinshi was staring down at the fallen Angel, smiling slightly. No one spoke for a few seconds.
"Raishinshi Win!"
Everybody present turned to see...
"Mr. Icchan!?" Kiyoko cried, seeing her friend and mentor standing besides her.
Icchan nodded and smiled down at her.
"The one and only," he said, then turned to Suzu, who looked ready to pick a 'real' fight, "if you want to have a real battle, then save it for the Tournament."
Suzu swallowed at his tone, but scowled, and went over to where Venus lay. She picked her up and gave both Raishinshi and Kiyoko a dirty look.
"You'll pay for this!" she snapped, walking away, "I'll get you next time!"
The dark-haired girl quickly followed.
"Wait! Suzu!" she called, running after her.
Kiyoko, ignoring the girls, removed her Angel Goggles, and went to Icchan.
"Mr. Icchan," she said, happy, "did you see my match?"
Icchan nodded.
"Yep, I sure did," he confirmed, "you did well."
Kiyoko beamed as Tamiko moved closer.
"Kiyoko? Who's this?" she asked, timidly.
Kiyoko turned to her best friend.
"Tamiko, this is Mr. Icchan," she said, "he helped me practice the other day."
Tamiko bowed respectively. Icchan did the same, noticing Youzen in the process.
"Your Angel looks damaged pretty bad," he said, and held out a hand, "I can fix him if you want."
Tamiko looked up, eyes hopeful.
"Really?" she asked.
Icchan nodded.
"Yep, I always come prepared," he said, "good thing I dropped by."
Kiyoko looked up at him, curiously.
"How 'did' you know I was here?" she asked.
Icchan sweat-dropped and cast a covert glance behind him, at the camera that was hidden by the far wall.
"Let's just say I know when a friend's in trouble," he said, turning back to Kiyoko.
Kiyoko nodded and then remembered the snacks she had bought that were now nearly crushed in her hands.
"Eep! I forgot about our snacks," she cried, handing the cookies to Tamiko, "want one?"
Icchan almost laughed upon hearing that, even though Tamiko already was.
"That move you did," Tamiko said, taking the bag of cookies, "you got that from what Hikaru did on that match we saw earlier, right?"
Icchan raised an eyebrow as Kiyoko nodded.
"Oh, Kiyoko, before I forget," he said, fishing something out of his pocket, "I brought you a little something."
He handed her something. Kiyoko took it and looked it over. It was a pink card lined in white. It had a large blue egg in the background. In front of the egg was a picture of a cute gold crown with wings on the side. Inside the crown it said: 'ANGELIC LAYER' in fancy red letters. Below it was small print that read: Deus: Yume Kiyoko - Angel: Raishinshi. Below that, on the very bottom, it read: ANGEL CARD.
"An Angel Card?!" Kiyoko cried.
"Where'd you get that?" Tamiko asked, surprised.
Icchan casually shrugged.
"A friend of mine pulled some strings," he answered, "anyways, I figured that it might come in handy."
Kiyoko stared down at the card for a while before speaking.
"Uh, Tamiko, Mr. Icchan," she said.
Both turned to her.
"About the Tournament," she said, "I think..." she looked up at then and smiled, "I think I'll enter."
*Uh...konya mo mata...*
Tamiko smiled widely, as did Icchan.
"Really?" Tamiko gasped.
Kiyoko smiled and nodded.
*...hakanai hoshi zora.*
"That's great!" Tamiko cried, hugging her friend with one arm, and holding Youzen with the other.
Icchan smiled.
(It sure is,) he thought, proudly.
*Uh...hikaru hoshi ni...*
As the girls giggled and laughed with excitement, Raishinshi was watching them. But someone was watching him as well.
*...negai o kakeru kara*
The boy frowned and walked away.
WAHOOOO!!!!!!! We're only one chapter away from the Tokyo Prelims!! *Ignores sisters' rude remarks on the ending theme* My sister doesn't like the fact that I include the ending theme at the end of my fics. Well TO BAD FOR HER! *giggles* Anyway, in the next chapter Kiyoko is getting ready for the Tournament, but with an over-confident attitude. That may change once she meets a Star Deus of Angelic Layer who challenges her to a match. What will happen? You're just gonna have to wait for Battle 5. Please R&R. No flames please.
Disclaimer: Hi everyone! Chapter 4 is here! Only one chapter left before Kiyoko and
Raishinshi head for the Tokyo Prelims. I'm probably gonna make some
error about the fighting moves, but go easy on me, I don't know a lot of
karate moves. Feel free to e-mail me fighting moves if you like, 'cause I'm
not that good. Anyway, I don't own Angelic Layer or any of the original
characters. But I DO own Kiyoko, Angel Raishinshi, Kiyoko's family and
friends, Tamiko, Angel Youzen, and any other characters that are newly
mentioned characters.
Battle 4: "Don't Worry Tamiko! Kiyoko's Decision!"
The crowd was roaring as the battle continued. It was an Angelic Layer Tournament being held in a town not to far away from Kiyoko's neighborhood. Everyone in the area was watching the match, either in the stadium or outside, watching the TV's. The battle was halfway over, the timer at 5 minutes, but the audience was still watching and cheering, expectantly.
Inside the Layer were two Angels. In the East Corner was a female Angel dressed in red with chin-length pink hair, a red and black headband with a white point on each side, and dark pink eyes. She was looking at her opponent with determination. Her opponent was also a female Angel and a bit taller than the other. She was dressed in black with purple boots and spiked shoulder guards, waist length black hair, and dark violet eyes. She stood in a battle position.
The black Angels' Damage was at 50% while the red Angel was at 80%. The black Angels' Deus, a blond-haired girl in a high school uniform, looked tense. The red Angels' Deus, on the other hand, bore a steady expression. The blond Deus grit her teeth and leaned forward. The black Angel brought her fists up and charged as the red Angel put up her guard. The red Angels' Deus was 15 years old and had short brown hair with a brown lock hanging on each side of her head. She wore a brown and gray-skirted uniform: the Eriol Academy High School uniform. She watched her Angel carefully.
The black Angel was within striking distance. She started to execute a volley of punches at the red Angels' face. The red Angel ducked and dodged them all. The black Angel executed, then, a right forward kick. The red Angel caught her foot and through it over the black Angels' head, making her flip over onto her stomach. The black Angel, still lying on the Layer surface, tried to execute a low kick, but the red Angel front-flipped over her. The black Angel got up and ran after her. The red Angel spun around, the two red cords attached to her headband swirling around her body. She let loose a right spin kick, hitting the Angel in the left side, and sending her flying across the Layer.
The blond Deus was getting desperate. The black Angel got up and ran at the red Angel. The red Angel waited until the other Angel was close enough before jumping into a back flip, one leg extended. The extended foot caught the black Angel under the chin and sent her flying once more. She crashed into the Layer and, this time, she didn't get back up. Her Damage Gauge dropped to 0, the timer stopped at 3 minutes, and the buzzer sounded.
The audience started to cheer as loud as they could. The blond Deus gasped while brunette Deus smiled.
"And that's a knockout!" the announcer cried, "Hikaru Win!"
The audience cheered even louder as the red Angels' Deus stood up.
"That was a fantastic performance of strength and agility! What a match!" the announcer continued as the brunette removed her Angel Goggles, "everyone give Suzuhara Misaki a big hand! She now qualifies for the Nationals!!"
The brunette looked up at the ecstatic audience with bright sky blue eyes. She smiled and waved.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
"Oh wow! That was COOL!!" Kiyoko cried, watching the red Angel from Tamiko's TV screen.
Ken leaned forward in excitement.
"Hikaru rocks!" he shouted, punching the air above.
Takumi arms folded, gave his friend a glance.
"She's been the Angelic Layer Champion for 3 years," he huffed, "so of course she's good."
Today was Wednesday and Kiyoko and her friends had just left school and were watching a Layer Battle that was on. Matches were always shown on a certain channel and Tamiko's TV was the only one that had the station. One of the perks of her father being wealthy. The match had just ended and the latest info on Angelic Layer was coming up next. The kids paid no mind as they continued to chat.
"Hikaru's soooo cool!" Ken cried, hardly able to hold in his excitement, "it's no wonder she beat Athena!"
"And to find out that Suzuhara was the daughter of Athena's Deus," Yuri voiced from the couch, "it's no wonder that she has talent."
Tamiko nodded. She and Yuri were seated on her blue sofa while Kiyoko and the boys sat on the gray-blue carpet in front of the TV. Tamiko turned to Kiyoko.
"Your Dad's a popular Deus in Northern Tokyo, right Kiyoko?" she asked.
Kiyoko turned to her and nodded.
"Well," Tamiko continued, "maybe you stand a chance in the Tournament this year."
Kiyoko frowned. The topic of her and Raishinshi entering the Tournament had come up the other day, but she had yet to decide on whether she'd participate or not.
"I don't know," she admitted, "I'm thinking about it."
"You'd better hurry up," Takumi said, "the last day to sign up is Friday."
Kiyoko swallowed. She'd always wanted to enter a Tournament. Like this, but she never knew that it'd come so fast. Not to mention she was a little worried. After seeing how her fight on Monday was, she was worried about failing Raishinshi. But after yesterday's dance session with the strange girl, some of her confidence had been returned. But she was still a bit worried.
"Stop pouring on the pressure, Takumi," Yuri scolded, "let her choose on her own."
Takumi shrugged. Tamiko looked at her friend, thoughtfully.
"Say, Kiyoko?" she spoke up.
"Hm?" Kiyoko asked, turning away from the TV.
"Would you like to come practice with me at Piffle Princess?" Tamiko asked.
Kiyoko blinked.
"Huh?" she asked, blankly.
"Well, I've already signed up for the Tournament, so I need to practice," Tamiko explained, "and since you seemed to like practicing from the other day, I wondered if you and Raishinshi would like to come."
Kiyoko blinked again and then smiled.
"Well, sure," she agreed, "when do we leave?"
Tamiko hopped up from her couch.
"Now if it's alright with you," she said.
Kiyoko nodded and turned to the boys.
"Do you want to come too, Ken? Takumi?" she asked.
Ken frowned.
"I can't," he grumbled, "I've gotta baby-sit my sister tonight for my folks."
Takumi nodded.
"Yeah, and Yuri and I are due home," he said, "we're having company over."
Kiyoko frowned, but nodded. Tamiko ran for her room down the hall.
"Just let me get Youzen and my sneakers and I'll be right there!" she called.
Kiyoko called an affirmative and turned to Yuri.
"If I decide to enter the Tournament, how do you think I'll do?" she asked, nervously.
Yuri smiled, but shook her head.
"I can't say for sure," she said, softly, "but as long as you have confidence, you'll be fine."
Kiyoko nodded and got up as Tamiko came out of her room, sneakers on her feet and Angel in hand. Ken and the others got up to go as well, but not before a TV announcement caught Takumi's attention.
"...and the Tournament is going to be having a special event for the new National champ this year," the male announcer said, a picture of the Angelic Layer stadium showing on screen, "the commissioner is sponsoring this event and the Angelic Layer Staff is hoping that it will go as according to plan. The outcome, they say, will be a fantastic turnout, if all goes well."
"Hey, Takumi!" Ken called, "c'mon!"
Takumi sighed and turned off the TV.
(Wonder what the special event is?) he wondered, taking his coat and running out the front door.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Kiyoko had to make a quick stop at her house to pick up Raishinshi and then she and Tamiko went on their way to Piffle Princess. The store wasn't too crowded, so Tamiko and Kiyoko had no problem getting past the foyer and heading to the sign up desk.
"Excuse me," Tamiko said, politely, "we would like to rent a Layer for practicing."
The lady at the desk smiled.
"Do you have an Angel Card?" she asked.
Tamiko fished around in her pocket and pulled out a pink card that had 'Angelic Layer' written on the top inside a cute gold crown with wings on the side. Below the logo was Tamiko's name and Youzen's name. It was an Angel Card, a sort of Membership Card.
"Here," Tamiko said, handing her card to the lady while Kiyoko watched.
The lady took the card, ran it through the card reader, and then handed it back to Tamiko along with a piece of paper.
"Here you go," she said, smiling, "you've got Layer 4."
"Thanks!" both girls said in unison, giggled, and ran up the stairs.
The Practice Room was pretty full. Layer 4 was in the back of the room, past the Layer by the window that Kiyoko had practiced on. She and Tamiko made a beeline for it. Once there, Tamiko look her seat on the left, and Kiyoko took hers on the right.
"You remember what to do?" Tamiko asked, putting Youzen in a standing position on the Layer.
Kiyoko nodded, but then stared at what Tamiko was doing.
"Uh," she murmured, "aren't you supposed to throw your Angel into the Layer when you turn it on?"
Tamiko picked up the Angel Goggles on her side and put them on.
"No, not really," she said, "you can just set them on the Layer and then turn it on."
Kiyoko gave a slow nod and picked up her Angel Goggles.
(If that's true,) she wondered, putting the goggles on, (then how come Mr. Icchan wanted me to throw Raishinshi into the Layer rather than place him in the Layer?)
Tamiko leaned over and pressed on the button that turned on the Layer. The Layer surface lit up and the force field shimmered into sight before fading again. Kiyoko looked down at Raishinshi and smiled.
(Wake up, Raishinshi,) she thought, kindly.
Raishinshi slowly lifted his head and opened his bright brown eyes. He looked up at her and that's when she noticed there was a slight, red-orange tint to his eyes. Just like his Anime counterpart.
On the other side of the Layer, Tamiko was waking up Youzen.
(Practice time Youzen,) she thought, cheerfully.
Youzen raised his head and opened his bright violet eyes. He looked up at Tamiko, who smiled down at him.
"How should we practice?" Kiyoko asked.
Tamiko smiled and had Youzen turn to face her friend.
"I guess I could show you a few moves, first," she offered.
Kiyoko smiled and nodded. Raishinshi turned to face Youzen. Youzen then started walking towards the middle of the Layer. Raishinshi went to join him. They stood side by side.
"First," Tamiko said, "let's see how good Raishinshi can punch."
Kiyoko nodded. Raishinshi moved forward a couple steps. Then, he threw a right jab, then a left, and repeated this action twice before stopping. Tamiko gave him a smile.
"That's good," she said, then focused on Youzen, "try this."
Youzen moved forward and executed a right hook and then a left hook. Kiyoko swallowed and had Raishinshi mimic the move. He did it okay, but it was a little slow.
"Can't you make him strike faster?" Tamiko asked, "like last time?"
Kiyoko frowned.
"I'll try," she said, and refocused.
Raishinshi threw a right and left hook, this time a little faster.
"Okay," Tamiko said, pleased, "how's his kick?"
Kiyoko smiled.
"I got that one down okay," she said, focusing on a move.
Raishinshi threw a right jab, then a left, right, left, and then did a right upwards kick. He then spin-kicked with his left leg and then his right. He then pushed off with his left foot, spun around twice, then kicked out with his left foot on his second spin. As he came to a halt, Tamiko stared.
"Hey, that's good," she admitted, "how about this one?"
Youzen cart-wheeled into a handstand, moved himself in a circle with his hands, and swung his legs out and around. Kiyoko frowned.
"I've seen it, but I can't do it," she pouted.
Tamiko had Youzen get back on the ground. She frowned as well.
"Can you at least try?" she asked.
Kiyoko looked at Raishinshi and nodded. Raishinshi cart-wheeled into a handstand and moved himself in a circle with his hands. But as he stuck out his legs, he began wobbling. And, with a silent gasp, he toppled over on his stomach. Kiyoko frowned and shook her head.
"I can't do it," she said, feeling disappointed, "it's too hard for Raishinshi."
Tamiko gave her friend a kind smile.
"I'm sure you'll get it right eventually," she said, reassuringly, "don't you have a Practice Layer at home you can work on?"
Kiyoko looked up and nodded.
"Yeah, it used to be my Dad's," she said, "he used to let me watch him practice with his Angel. I don't go there much now. I get sad all over again."
Tamiko nodded. Ever since her Dad left, Kiyoko always felt a little down. Even though he and Kiyoko's mom were still married, and he called and visited on special occasions, it still wasn't the same. And lately, Kiyoko's father hadn't stopped by or called like he usually did and Kiyoko saw him less and less.
"I hardly see him anymore," Kiyoko continued, "but Mom said that he promised to call next Wednesday. So, I'll talk to him then."
Tamiko nodded again in understanding. She looked at the Layer and at Youzen.
"My Dad is hardly home himself," she admitted, "he runs a big company and doesn't have a lot of time to stop by. He doesn't even have time to see my matches. But he promised that this time he'd find time to watch my fights. So, who knows? Maybe your Dad will come to your matches once you enter the Tournament."
" 'If' I enter," she said, her frown now registering on Raishinshi's face.
Tamiko sighed.
"We gotta stop depressing ourselves," she said, trying to lighten the mood, "do 'you' have any moves to show?"
Kiyoko brightened a bit.
"Yeah," she said.
Tamiko smiled.
"You gonna show me?" she asked, eagerly.
Kiyoko thought for a moment.
"Nope," she finally said.
Tamiko's face fell.
"Why?" she asked.
Kyoko gave her a sheepish smile.
"'Cause I don't know them yet," she said, "I'd have to try them out on someone first."
Tamiko got eager again.
"You can fight with us," she pointed out, Youzen turning to face Kiyoko.
Kiyoko shook her head.
"I don't want to hurt Youzen," she said, "I don't want to hurt my best friend's Angel."
Tamiko blinked in surprise and smiled.
"Thanks Kiyoko," she said, warmly.
Kiyoko nodded and focused back on Raishinshi.
(I wonder,) she thought, ('would' Dad come to one of my matches if I asked him?)
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Somewhere else in Piffle Princess, in a secluded room, there was another Practice Layer. This one was surrounded by many lights, cameras, and wires. The Layer was on and a stereo was set on a table beside it. A man was in the Angel Seat that was to the left of the Layer. He wore a gray suit, blue tie, and brown pants: obviously he worked for a type of business. He had brownish-blond hair and as for his eyes...they were covered by a blue headset with a pink visor and wings on the side. He was focusing on a figure inside the Layer that was dancing to the Rap music that played over the stereo's speakers.
It was an Angel. A male Angel. He had ankle length silver hair that was tied in a blue band at his waist. Tied to the band was a silver Angel Cord that sparkled in the light. He wore a white, long-sleeved shirt that was close fitting. It was hemmed in sky blue and bore a silver crescent moon in the middle of the shirt. The moon was surrounded by a ring of gold that was also on the back of the shirt. He wore long white pants, hemmed in sky blue as well. He wore silver socks like how samurai's wore them. He had pale skin and deep silver eyes. He was currently dancing to the music, doing all sorts of dance moves, and yet, his expression was blank and seemingly sad.
In another room, a man in a dark brown suit and dark hair and a woman with a purple suit, black pants, and chin-length brown hair were watching through a glass window. The man was looking through some papers while the woman observed the man and Angel in the other room.
"Wow, he's performing pretty good," the man complemented, "he's the best model that was ever made."
The woman, still looking through the papers in her lap, replied.
"I'll agree with you there," she said, "the Chief really outdid himself. But I'm surprised he hasn't made any more of his type. It's been a confirmed program and yet I haven't seen it out in the market."
The man turned to the woman.
"I thought the Chief 'did' make another one," he implied.
The woman looked up.
"Well, I checked the system, and no more reports of the program has been issued," she stated and went back to reading, "you probably heard it wrong, or something."
The man thought a moment, then shrugged.
"Oh, well," he said, turning back to the window, "at least the 'special event' is in order."
The woman looked up again.
"Not quite," she said, "the commissioner still has a few papers to sign. After that, 'then' the event'll be ready."
The man watched the other man and the Angel through the window and sighed.
(The Chief sure seemed interested in a certain new Deus, according to Ogata anyway,) he thought, (I wonder if she has something to do with the event.)
He continued to think as the silver Angel continued his dance. The Angels' Deus watched him through the visor. Even though his eyes were hidden, they were sad.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
"Good movement," Tamiko said, "let's try it again."
Kiyoko nodded. For the past fifteen minutes, the two girls had practiced punching and kicking combos. They even invented a couple. Right now, Tamiko was sharing one of her best combos with Kiyoko, and Kiyoko seemed to have it down perfectly. Youzen and Raishinshi were side by side.
"Ready?" Tamiko asked.
"Yep," Kiyoko confirmed, and they began again.
In unison, Raishinshi and Youzen punched out with their right fists, then their lefts. They kicked out with their right legs, came down from the kick, turned with their right feet, and kicked out again with their lefts. And it didn't stop there. Both Angels' then came down from the kick, thrust their right fists forward, and finished the move with a forward left kick. And they both did it in sync, perfectly.
Kiyoko beamed and Tamiko clapped.
"Alright! That was good!" she cheered, "you'd SO totally be ready for the Official Tournament."
Kiyoko smiled lightly.
"I guess," she said, looking down at Raishinshi.
Tamiko shook her head.
"C'mon Kiyoko," the blond prompted, "I know you can do it. You just have to believe in yourself."
Kiyoko looked up. Her Dad had said the same thing to her when she first had doubts about playing Angelic Layer. But the thought of Raishinshi getting hurt was a little scary. What if she failed? Would she be worthy of being a Deus? Or even playing Angelic Layer?
"I know you're afraid that Raishinshi will get hurt," her friend continued, "but you never know what you can accomplish with your Angel if you don't try. Take Suzuhara Misaki for example. She won the Championship on her first time playing Angelic Layer. I'm sure you'll do good. And if you don't, there's always next year."
Kiyoko smiled at her friend.
"Thanks Tami-chan," she said, "I'll give it some thought. By the way, are you hungry?"
Tamiko blinked and looked at her stomach.
"Sorta," she admitted, "I skipped my after school snack."
Kiyoko nodded.
"Same with me," she said, pouting, "and Mom baked brownies too."
Tamiko brightened.
"Brownies?!" she cried, "the ones with the nuts?"
Kiyoko gave her a grinning nod.
"Yep, we can have some when we get home," she said, "but right now, I need some food."
"Me too," Tamiko agreed.
Raishinshi turned around and ran to the edge of the Layer. Kiyoko held out her hands. Raishinshi leapt out of the Layer and fell into Kiyoko's hands. Tamiko watched in a bit of confusion.
"What are you doing?" she asked as Kiyoko took off her Angel Goggles.
Kiyoko smiled down at her.
"Raishinshi and I are gonna get some food," she stated, "besides, I'm afraid to leave him alone in the Layer without me."
Tamiko smiled and nodded in understanding. With that, Kiyoko headed for the stairs, Raishinshi in hand. As she headed down the stairs, a pair of girls in High School Uniforms were heading up, passing her on the stairs. They reached the top of the stairs and began to look around.
"There aren't any Layers left," one said.
"We would have gotten here sooner if you didn't stop," the other snapped.
"Sorry, I was on the phone."
"You should've hung up!"
"But-"
"Never mind! Now what?"
"Well, we could wait for one to become free-"
"OR we could go there..."
Meanwhile, Tamiko was staring at Youzen, deep in thought.
(I know Kiyoko can do it if she only tries,) she thought, (she did great in her first match and she's been mimicking Youzen perfectly. Raishinshi is a good Angel, I know he won't fail Kiyoko. If only she'd-)
"Hey!"
Tamiko gave a start and looked up. A couple of High School girls in Eriol Academy Uniforms were looking down at her. One was tall with long brown- blond hair and ice blue eyes and the other was slightly shorter with chin- length dark hair and gray eyes. The short girl had an uneasy expression while the blond was looking down at her, sourly.
"Um...yes?" Tamiko asked, blinking in confusion.
The blond girl frowned.
"Someone sitting here?" she asked, indicating to Kiyoko's seat.
Tamiko nodded.
"Yeah, she went to get something," Tamiko said, casually.
The girl smiled and moved to the seat.
"Good, then there's time for a match," she said, pertly.
Tamiko's head shot up.
"HUH?!" she cried, she didn't expect that.
The blond picked up the Angel Goggles and put them on. Tamiko stared in confusion.
"Wh-what do you mean a 'match'?" she stammered, "this is a Practice Layer."
The blond sat down as the dark-haired girl moved beside her.
"Well, we're practicing," she said, defending her friend.
Tamiko's expression was a mixture of shock and confusion. The blond girl, meanwhile, took out her Angel. The Angel was female and quite muscular, obviously a Power type. She had blond hair that was tied up in a ponytail with a red Angel Cord hanging down from it. She wore body armor that looked like the kind in Ancient Roman armor. It was colored red and brown. She wore elbow-length, metallic yellow gloves and knee-high, gold metallic boots. A gold plated skirt hung around her waist and reached her knees. Her skin was of average tint and even though her eyes were closed, the Angel looked fierce.
"You ready?" the blond asked, smirking.
Before Tamiko could even protest, the girl began anyway.
"Show no mercy, Venus!" she cried, hurling her Angel into the Layer.
The Angel slid through the force field. Her pale green eyes shot open and she landed square on the Layer, her arms were up and flexing. The Angel smiled at Youzen, cockily.
"Wait!" Tamiko cried, now getting worried, "this is a Layer for practice only, not a real match."
The blond girl smirked at Tamiko.
"Then consider this a 'Practice Match'," she offered, "practice for Venus anyway."
Tamiko's eyes widened, as did Youzen's as he sensed his Deus' distress. But then Tamiko set her face firmly and got Youzen into a battle stance. She wasn't going to be intimidated by a bully.
"Angelic Fight!" the dark-haired girl announced.
It happened so fast. Venus ran full speed at Youzen. Youzen didn't even have time to react. Venus raised her fist and delivered a solid punch to Youzen's stomach. With a silent cry, Youzen flew back, eyes closed.
"Youzen!" Tamiko cried, her eyes wide with horror as her Angel crashed into the Layer, hard.
No sooner had Youzen landed did Venus run at him again. Youzen reacted fast this time, rolling to the left, narrowly missing Venus' punch. He then sprung up and ran at Venus as she straightened. With a fierce glare, Youzen delivered a fierce right hook to Venus' face. It connected, but Venus didn't budge. She just turned to Youzen and smiled. Both Youzen and Tamiko blinked in confusion.
"Guess I forgot to mention," the blond girl said, pertly, "Venus is a Heavyweight. Your Angel's probably a Lightweight, he doesn't stand a chance."
With that, Venus drew back her right fist and delivered a right hook that sent Youzen toppling to the ground. He didn't even get a chance to get back up. Venus gave him a fierce kick in the stomach, sending him flying. He landed only an inch away from the edge of the Layer. Tamiko gasped.
"Is that all you've got?" the blond taunted.
Tamiko gritted her teeth and Youzen shakily got up. The dark-haired girl shook her head.
(Rookies,) she thought, (never want to give it up.)
This time, Youzen rushed at Venus who merely smiled. Youzen leaped at Venus, right leg extended in a jump kick. Venus allowed the kick to impact, then grabbed Youzen's leg, raised him over her head by his leg, and smashed him down onto the Layer. He cried out silently. Tamiko gasped.
"Looks like you're not too tough by the looks of it," the blond commented.
Tamiko gritted her teeth.
(What now?) she thought, as Venus let go of Youzen with a smirk, (what can I do?!)
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
"This should be enough," Kiyoko said, looking down at the two snack bags she had acquired.
It had taken her a while to pick out the snacks, but she finally chose one bag of chips and one bag of cookies.
(Since Tamiko can't have brownies right now,) Kiyoko thought, heading for the stairs, (maybe she'll like some chocolate chip cookies.)
With Raishinshi in one hand and snack bags in the other, Kiyoko made her way back up the stairs. She wasn't aware that she was being followed. The boy who had watched her first match two days ago was following her up the stairs at a safe distance. His navy blue eyes locked on her back.
(This girl,) the boy thought as she neared the top, (something about her and the way she fought...it looks vaguely familiar.) He narrowed his eyes. (I think I'll watch her practice. 'Cause if I'm right on who I think she is...) he smiled, (...then our match 'should' be fun.)
Kiyoko skipped up the last steps as the boy kept to the shadows behind her. Kiyoko looked down at Raishinshi as she neared the corner of the Practice Room. She pondered what Tamiko had said.
(I wonder if I 'should' fight in the Tournament?) she thought, hesitating, (it's not just that I'm afraid of getting Raishinshi hurt, but about my promise to Dad. I said I'd ace all my matches once I entered. But in my last match, I could hardly keep up with that other Angel. But, then again, Mom wants me to try, Ken wants me to try, and so does Tamiko. Even Mr. Icchan and that girl from the other day want me to try. But, if I do, will I even make it past the Prelims?)
Kiyoko shook her head. The boy hid himself in another corner, behind her.
(I just don't know,) she thought with a sigh, (that last match was hard enough. How am I gonna beat a bunch of Layer Pro's in the Tourna-)
"YOUZEN!!"
Kiyoko's head shot up. That was Tamiko! Nearly dropping the bags she was carrying, Kiyoko ran for Layer 4. The boy was also curious about the scream and moved closer. Kiyoko stopped before the Layer when she saw what was happening.
There were two High School girls at the Layer: a blond girl and a dark- haired girl. The blond girl had on Angel Goggles and was sitting in the Angel Chair. There was another Angel in the Layer too. She wore her long blond hair up in a ponytail with a red Cord attached. She was dressed in Ancient Roman style armor colored red and brown. She was very muscular and was facing Youzen. Upon looking at him, Kiyoko's eyes widened.
Youzen was crouching on one knee and was holding his right shoulder. His right arm was limp and looked quite damaged. Tamiko's face was one of horror while the other girl wore a sickening cocky smile. The blond Angel charged again.
"STOP!" Kiyoko cried.
All three girls looked up, startled, and the armored Angel stopped halfway to Youzen. The blond girl narrowed her eyes at Kiyoko.
"Who're you?" she asked, rudely.
"Kiyoko!" Tamiko cried, sounding desperate.
Kiyoko ran to her friends' side.
"What's wrong, Tamiko?" she asked, worried.
Tamiko looked on the verge of tears.
"T-Those girls came a-and started to fight Youzen," she stammered, worried eyes on her Angel, "w-we didn't want to fight, b-but her Angel hurt him a lot, and n-now Youzen can't move his arm!"
The blond shrugged, indignantly.
"Not my fault her Angel is weak," she huffed, "I came to get ready for the Tournament and I've gotta practice somewhere. So, why not practice my moves on another Angel?"
Kiyoko turned burning eyes at the girl. If it was one thing she couldn't stand, it was bullies.
"You just don't barge in and start fighting with someone," she scolded, "you didn't even get Tamiko's permission!"
The blond girl narrowed her eyes at Kiyoko.
" 'I' don't need permission to fight," she snapped, "and don't tell me what to do!"
Kiyoko gave the girl another glare and turned to Tamiko.
"Have Youzen leave the Layer," she told her friend, steadily, "we're leaving."
Before Tamiko could reply....
"Hold it!" the blond girl yelled, "we're in the middle of fight. You can't just leave in the middle of a match!"
Kiyoko turned to her.
"My friend's Angel is too damaged to fight," she explained, trying to be calm, "go fight somewhere else."
The dark-haired girl scowled at Kiyoko.
"What gives you the right to give orders?" she snapped, "Suzu's a top ranking Deus. You're just a rookie. 'You' should go somewhere else."
Kiyoko shook her head.
"We were here first," she clarified, "you two just barged in. 'You' have no right to be here."
She turned back to Tamiko.
"Have Youzen jump out," she said.
But, Tamiko shook her head.
"I-I can't," she murmured, "he can't stand. I've tried twice, but he can't stand up."
Kiyoko grit her teeth. How dare these two bullies come and harm her friend's Angel. Weren't there rules against this? She turned back to the Layer.
"Then we'll shut the Layer off," she said, giving the two girls an angry look, "this isn't a 'real' battle anyway."
But as she went to turn off the Layer, the dark-haired girl came up, and blocked her.
"Real or not, this fight is still in progress," she said, "just give up and watch."
Kiyoko tightened her grip on the snack bags that were forgotten in her hands.
"Watch you hurt my friend's Angel? No way!" she declared.
"Then do something about it."
The girls turned to the blond girl, Suzu, who was looking straight at Kiyoko.
"Huh?" Kiyoko and the dark-haired girl said in unison.
Suzu smiled and looked at Raishinshi, who was still in Kiyoko's hand.
"That's your Angel isn't it?" she asked, " 'you' fight Venus."
Kiyoko blinked.
"No Kiyoko!" Tamiko cried, "Raishinshi'll just be hurt."
Suzu raised an eyebrow.
"Raishinshi?" she echoed, "that's a boy?" She smirked, slyly. "Looks like a girl."
Kiyoko stiffened, but didn't say anything. The dark-haired girl gave Kiyoko a disdainful look.
"They don't look like much, Suzu," she said, bluntly, "you think they stand a chance?"
Suzu shrugged.
"If she wants to stop this fight, she'd better accept," she said, simply.
Kiyoko looked at Youzen and then at Raishinshi.
(What if he gets hurt too?) she thought.
"Well?" the dark-haired girl snapped, "are you going to enter or not?"
Kiyoko looked indecisive.
"I....uh...," she stammered.
Suzu smiled.
"Guess that's what you get when your Angel looks too girly," she sniped, "you don't want to get them dirty."
Kiyoko stiffened again.
"That's not it," she said, "my Dad always told me never to listen to bullies."
"Awww," the dark-haired girl crooned, " 'Daddy's little girl'."
Kiyoko shot her a look.
"Just stop the match," she said, firmly, "there's no point to fight over this."
Suzu smiled knowingly.
"If you say that," she said, "your Angel 'must' be defective."
Kiyoko's head shot up and she turned to Suzu, eyes on fire.
"Raishinshi is NOT defective!" she snapped.
"Prove it!" Suzu dared, harshly, "give your Entry and have him fight Venus! Now!"
Kiyoko knew she was cornered. She couldn't back out of this mess. She glanced down at Raishinshi. He was oblivious to what was happening. Could he beat her? Kiyoko looked up and glared at Suzu before heading for Tamiko.
"Let me," she told her, hand out, waiting for the Angel Goggles.
Tamiko's eyes widened.
"But, she'll ream you," she said, very worried.
Kiyoko sighed.
"I've got to do it," she said, "it's the only way to get Youzen and you out of this mess. And maybe it'll get those girls to leave." She reached out again. "Please?"
Tamiko hesitated, but nodded, and took off the Angel Goggles. Youzen closed his eyes on the Layer and waited patiently in his uncomfortable position. Tamiko handed the Goggles to Kiyoko and got up from the chair. Kiyoko sat down, placed Raishinshi on the Layers' edge, and put on the Goggles. She picked up Raishinshi and stared down at him.
(Do your best,) she thought.
Meanwhile, in a corner by the Layer, the boy watched Kiyoko, curious.
"Let's go, Raishinshi!" Kiyoko cried, throwing him into the Layer with all her might.
Raishinshi slid through the force field. Once through, his brown-red eyes opened wide. He front flipped into a standing position and floated down to the Layer surface. Once he landed, he turned to Youzen.
(He landed right, at least,) Tamiko thought, pensively.
Raishinshi walked over to Youzen, bent down, and picked him up as an adult would a child. He turned to Kiyoko and headed for the Layer edge.
"Get ready to catch him, Tamiko," Kiyoko said, eyes not leaving her Angel.
Tamiko nodded and held her hands out. Once by the force field, Raishinshi gently tossed Youzen out of the Layer. Going through the force field, Youzen landed limply in Tamiko's hands. Tamiko backed away from the Layer and held Youzen close. That done, Raishinshi turned back to an impatient Venus and walked back to where he had landed: a foot in front of Kiyoko. He faced the female Angel, a mad look on his face.
"Ready?" Kiyoko asked, steadily.
Suzu smirked and nodded. The dark-haired girl faced the Layer and smiled as well.
"Well then," she said, "Angelic Fight!"
Venus charged at Raishinshi without wasting a second. Raishinshi tensed into a boxing position. Venus drew back her right fist and threw Raishinshi a right hook. He ducked the blow by a hair's inch. Venus threw a left jab that Raishinshi dodged. Venus then charged him. Raishinshi quickly front flipped over Venus and landed behind her. Venus turned and gave him a smirk, like the one Suzu had.
"Not bad," she commented, "but it'll take more than dodging to beat Venus."
Venus charged again, fist raised. Raishinshi backed up and tensed. Venus swung a left hook that Raishinshi had to jump back to avoid. Venus charged again and, this time, executed a right side kick. Raishinshi sidestepped to avoid that one. Venus quickly turned to him and let loose a volley of jabs. With extreme efforts of both Angel and Deus, Raishinshi managed to dodge all the punches. But they kept on coming. Kiyoko swallowed.
(I can't keep dodging,) she told herself, (I've gotta fight back!)
Once again, Raishinshi front flipped over his opponent. Before Venus could turn around, Raishinshi moved in, and delivered a fierce right kick to her back. But it hardly seemed to affect Venus. She merely turned around and smiled evilly down at Raishinshi. Without so much as a warning, Venus delivered a fierce right upper cut. Raishinshi's head snapped back as he sailed through the air, backwards.
"Raishinshi!" Kiyoko cried.
Raishinshi landed on his back. His eyes opened slowly and he staggered to his feet.
(W-why didn't Venus fall down like Vesta did when I hit her?) Kiyoko thought, puzzled.
Suzu smiled, as did Venus. Venus ran at her fallen foe and raised her fist. Raishinshi had to back flip in order to avoid being hit. He landed on his feet and did a reverse right spin kick. The back of his heel connected with the left side of Venus' face. Venus' head turned to the right, but she didn't seem fazed like most Angels were after a blow. Raishinshi moved to attack again, throwing a punch. But Venus caught his fist and flipped him over on his back. Kiyoko gasped.
"You must have a Lightweight too," Suzu said, casually, "too bad. You're gonna wind up like your friend."
Kiyoko flinched.
"What do you mean?" she asked, starting to feel a little nervous.
The dark-haired girl faced her.
"Venus is a Heavyweight, Power type," she explained, "Heavyweights have an advantage over Lightweights. Your Angel's going to lose."
Kiyoko clenched her teeth.
(We're not going to quit,) she thought, making Raishinshi stand up, (we'll show them.)
Raishinshi raised his guard as Venus charged. She struck him with a right jab. Even though Raishinshi was blocking, he still skidded back quite a ways, stopping near the edge of the Layer. He quickly ran to the left as Venus moved in for the kill and got back to the middle of the Layer. Venus lunged at him drawing back her fist. Raishinshi sidestepped, but Venus wasn't finished. She recovered from her punch quickly, still in mid-air, and placed both hands flat on the Layer. She spun around with her legs out. She hit Raishinshi in the right side of the face, sending him sprawling.
"Like I said," Suzu said, snidely, "you're gonna wind up like your friend.
The boy watched from his hiding place. He didn't like what the bullies were doing, but this was Kiyoko's fight. She had something to prove. At the moment, however, Kiyoko didn't know what to do.
(What do I do?) was all she could think as she watched Venus approach.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Icchan hummed to himself as he marched up the stairs to the Practice Room in Piffle Princess. He had Ogata monitor Kiyoko's movements basically by installing a camera at Piffle Princess. Why? Because, if she was anything like the person he knew, 'practice' would be the first place she'd go. And besides, since his work kept him away half the time with the 'special event' and all, he had to make sure she stayed out of trouble. He was in a particularly happy mood today because of a special treat he had for his 'student'.
He headed up the stairs with a smile on his face, but it soon turned into a look of surprise when he saw what was going on in the Layer. Kiyoko was facing off against a Deus that he was familiar with in Angelic Layer. Raishinshi was going up against an armored Angel that was obviously a Power type. The armored Angel was currently executing a left forward kick that sent the purple Angel flying back a foot. Icchan immediately scowled at the sight.
"Having an unofficial battle like this inside a practice Layer," he said to himself, "that's not playing very fair. Especially with the advantage that Angel has over Raishinshi. They forced this on Kiyoko, no doubt about it."
He was about to move forward when he noticed the expression on Kiyoko's face. It was set in fierce determination. Only three people he knew showed that expression. And seeing it on his latest student, he had to smile, despite the situation.
(On the other hand,) he thought, (she might need something like this.)
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Kiyoko watched Venus, tensely. She was currently waiting for her opponent to make a move. Raishinshi was in a defensive stance and was staring straight at Venus. Tamiko watched her friend in concern, Youzen held to her chest. Kiyoko checked Raishinshi's damage and winced. His face, arms, and stomach area were damaged quite a bit.
(Now what?) she thought, (I can't let Raishinshi get hurt anymore, he can't take another hit. But how can I win? Raishinshi's attacks have hardly any affect on her Angel.)
Venus began to slowly advance on Raishinshi.
(I can't win by brute force,) Kiyoko thought, keeping a close eye on Venus, (I have to knock Venus out of the Layer. But how?)
Venus' pace began to increase. At that moment, however, a thought entered Kiyoko's head. It was something she had seen earlier in the day. It gave her an idea.
(Let's go, Raishinshi!) Kiyoko thought, confidence rising.
As Venus approached, Raishinshi darted to the left, and began running by the edge of the Layer.
"What's she doing?" Suzu mumbled, confused as to why a Deus would make her Angel go anywhere near the Layer's edge.
Never the less, Venus followed Raishinshi, who was now practically running right by the Layer's edge. Venus followed him, also going to the Layer's edge. And she was gaining on him.
"Kiyoko!" Tamiko cried as Venus began to close in.
The boy who was watching frowned a bit, but still raised an eyebrow. (Interesting,) he thought.
As Venus began to draw closer to Raishinshi, Kiyoko was silently timing her move.
(Wait, wait, wait, and-) she thought, holding her breathe.
Venus was upon Raishinshi at that moment.
"Ha!" Suzu cried in triumph.
Venus smiled and drew back her fist.
"Now!" Kiyoko cried.
Raishinshi stopped running and spun around, the violet Angel Cords attached to his upper arms swirling around his body. He let loose a left spin kick that hit Venus on the right side of her face. Caught off guard, Venus' eyes widened and she let out a silent gasp as she stumbled,.....and fell out of the Layer.
Suzu gasped in disbelief as she watched Venus fall to the floor and land with a loud thud. The dark-haired girl stared down at the fallen Angel in shock while Tamiko gave her friend a look of surprise. Kiyoko, meanwhile, sighed with relief. Raishinshi was staring down at the fallen Angel, smiling slightly. No one spoke for a few seconds.
"Raishinshi Win!"
Everybody present turned to see...
"Mr. Icchan!?" Kiyoko cried, seeing her friend and mentor standing besides her.
Icchan nodded and smiled down at her.
"The one and only," he said, then turned to Suzu, who looked ready to pick a 'real' fight, "if you want to have a real battle, then save it for the Tournament."
Suzu swallowed at his tone, but scowled, and went over to where Venus lay. She picked her up and gave both Raishinshi and Kiyoko a dirty look.
"You'll pay for this!" she snapped, walking away, "I'll get you next time!"
The dark-haired girl quickly followed.
"Wait! Suzu!" she called, running after her.
Kiyoko, ignoring the girls, removed her Angel Goggles, and went to Icchan.
"Mr. Icchan," she said, happy, "did you see my match?"
Icchan nodded.
"Yep, I sure did," he confirmed, "you did well."
Kiyoko beamed as Tamiko moved closer.
"Kiyoko? Who's this?" she asked, timidly.
Kiyoko turned to her best friend.
"Tamiko, this is Mr. Icchan," she said, "he helped me practice the other day."
Tamiko bowed respectively. Icchan did the same, noticing Youzen in the process.
"Your Angel looks damaged pretty bad," he said, and held out a hand, "I can fix him if you want."
Tamiko looked up, eyes hopeful.
"Really?" she asked.
Icchan nodded.
"Yep, I always come prepared," he said, "good thing I dropped by."
Kiyoko looked up at him, curiously.
"How 'did' you know I was here?" she asked.
Icchan sweat-dropped and cast a covert glance behind him, at the camera that was hidden by the far wall.
"Let's just say I know when a friend's in trouble," he said, turning back to Kiyoko.
Kiyoko nodded and then remembered the snacks she had bought that were now nearly crushed in her hands.
"Eep! I forgot about our snacks," she cried, handing the cookies to Tamiko, "want one?"
Icchan almost laughed upon hearing that, even though Tamiko already was.
"That move you did," Tamiko said, taking the bag of cookies, "you got that from what Hikaru did on that match we saw earlier, right?"
Icchan raised an eyebrow as Kiyoko nodded.
"Oh, Kiyoko, before I forget," he said, fishing something out of his pocket, "I brought you a little something."
He handed her something. Kiyoko took it and looked it over. It was a pink card lined in white. It had a large blue egg in the background. In front of the egg was a picture of a cute gold crown with wings on the side. Inside the crown it said: 'ANGELIC LAYER' in fancy red letters. Below it was small print that read: Deus: Yume Kiyoko - Angel: Raishinshi. Below that, on the very bottom, it read: ANGEL CARD.
"An Angel Card?!" Kiyoko cried.
"Where'd you get that?" Tamiko asked, surprised.
Icchan casually shrugged.
"A friend of mine pulled some strings," he answered, "anyways, I figured that it might come in handy."
Kiyoko stared down at the card for a while before speaking.
"Uh, Tamiko, Mr. Icchan," she said.
Both turned to her.
"About the Tournament," she said, "I think..." she looked up at then and smiled, "I think I'll enter."
*Uh...konya mo mata...*
Tamiko smiled widely, as did Icchan.
"Really?" Tamiko gasped.
Kiyoko smiled and nodded.
*...hakanai hoshi zora.*
"That's great!" Tamiko cried, hugging her friend with one arm, and holding Youzen with the other.
Icchan smiled.
(It sure is,) he thought, proudly.
*Uh...hikaru hoshi ni...*
As the girls giggled and laughed with excitement, Raishinshi was watching them. But someone was watching him as well.
*...negai o kakeru kara*
The boy frowned and walked away.
WAHOOOO!!!!!!! We're only one chapter away from the Tokyo Prelims!! *Ignores sisters' rude remarks on the ending theme* My sister doesn't like the fact that I include the ending theme at the end of my fics. Well TO BAD FOR HER! *giggles* Anyway, in the next chapter Kiyoko is getting ready for the Tournament, but with an over-confident attitude. That may change once she meets a Star Deus of Angelic Layer who challenges her to a match. What will happen? You're just gonna have to wait for Battle 5. Please R&R. No flames please.