My Angel Story
Disclaimer: Hi all! It took me a while, but here it is, Battle 7. Sorry if it's short and
cheesy, but I have a hard time focusing on another character. But, anyway,
in this chapter, Tamiko has to fight the same bully who beat up Youzen last
time. Can she beat her? I don't own
Angelic Layer, or any of its original characters. I 'do' own Kiyoko Yume,
Angel Raishinshi, Kiyoko's friends and family, Tamiko, Angel Youzen,
Saburo, Angel Higure, and any other new Angels and Deus' that pop up.
Now, onward!
Battle 7: "Don't Give Up, Tamiko! Youzen and Venus' Rematch!"
The Angelic Layer Stadium was full of people still, only these people were now excited beyond belief. There were many amazing battles that took place earlier: the match with Higure and Suzuka, though the shortest, were the most exciting to witness. And the appearance of Angel Mao and her Deus was also a treat. However, the match that was currently being talked about was the battle that was just won: the match between Angels' Raishinshi and Shadow Panther. Not everyone could beat a fast, agile Angel like Shadow Panther, but Raishinshi, in a come from behind strategy, was able to knock her out of the Layer. It got everyone's attention....especially the friends' of the Deus who owned him.
"Wow, what a cool match!" Ken cried from his seat.
"I agree with you there, Ken," Yuri agreed, then turned to her brother, "do you think Tamiko'll be next?"
"Do you think Tamiko will fight next?" she asked.
"Most likely," he replied, "wonder who she'll be fighting?"
Ken shrugged.
"Whoever it is, Tamiko can beat her! Just like Kiyoko and Raishinshi did with Shadow Panther! Yeah!" Ken cheered, waving his arms around.
Takumi smiled.
"That 'was' a good match," he complemented, "Raishinshi's movement improved a lot."
"And Kiyoko's gotten good at strategies," Yuri added.
"Not to mention that finishing move was brilliant," Takumi mentioned, "she 'really' must have practiced hard these last three days."
Ken turned to him and nodded.
"And if 'she' did well," Ken stated, "then I 'know' Tamiko will do just as good!"
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Kiyoko ran down the pink hallway, a wide smile present on her face, and came to the East Side waiting room. She ran in and instantly spotted Tamiko waiting for her by the door.
"I did it, Tamiko! We won!" she cried, holding Raishinshi to her chest.
Tamiko smiled and ran over to her friend.
"I know, I saw!" she replied, "that was great! How did you come up with that strategy?"
Kiyoko smiled.
"I came up with it when I remembered Mao's fight," she answered, "I didn't really think it'd work."
"Well, it did!" Tamiko beamed, "and you got past the first round!"
Kiyoko smiled even wider and glanced down at her Angel.
"I have to thank you, Tamiko," she stated.
Tamiko blinked.
"What for?" she asked.
"For helping me relax for the fight of course," her friend explained, "I did what you said: I believed in myself and in Raishinshi and we won!"
Tamiko smiled and patted her friend on the shoulder.
"Well, it works for me," she grinned.
At that moment, one of the ladies in uniform walked into the room.
"Ms. E-8, Kotoko Tamiko?" she called.
Tamiko turned to her.
"Here ma'am," she said.
The lady smiled at her politeness.
"You're up next," she said, gesturing to the hall.
Tamiko nodded and got Youzen from her uniform pocket. She turned to Kiyoko.
"I'm next, wish me luck," she said, heading out the door.
Kiyoko waved.
"Good luck!" she called, smiling.
She then looked down at Raishinshi. He was asleep again, but smiling slightly. Kiyoko smiled at him.
"We won our first Official Tournament Match, Raishinshi," she whispered, "and it's all because you hung in there for me. Let's do our best, okay?"
Raishinshi did nothing, but continue to smile.
Meanwhile, down the hall, Tamiko was staring down at Youzen. He, too, was sleeping silently in her hands.
"Let's do our best, Youzen," she told him.
Like Raishinshi, he didn't give a reply.
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Icchan looked up from the Tournament Roster, frowning. Ogata noticed this.
"Is something the matter with the roster, Chief?" he asked.
Icchan turned to the Visual Screen and sighed. He knew that the roster was posted in front of the Entry Counter every match. He wondered if Tamiko saw who her next opponent was.
(I guess Kiyoko isn't the only one who has to overcome her fears today,) he thought as the Layer lights lit up.
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"Get ready ladies and gents! Battle 8 is coming up!" the announcer declared as all lights focused back on the Layer. The Angel girls held up cards that read, 'Battle 8', before leaving.
Back in the stands, Ken was watching the Layer circle for any signs of...
"Tamiko-chan!" he cried suddenly, pointing to the East door. Takumi and Yuri looked to where he pointed.
Sure enough, it 'was' Tamiko who came walking out of the East door. Youzen was with her. He was sitting on her raised forearm, hands resting on her arm, and legs slanted to the right a little. Like how the Anime Youzen sat on his 'flight paopei'. Tamiko walked towards the Layer as the announcer introduced her.
"In the East Corner, please welcome back a familiar face to Angelic Layer!" the announcer cried as Tamiko slid into her seat, "she's been competing in Tournaments for about a year and a half and has proven her worth here in the Layer! The 'Wiz Kid' Deus Kotoko Tamiko and the 'Blue Fighter' Angel Youzen!"
The audience cheered.
"Go Tamiko-chan!" Ken cried.
Yuri and Takumi clapped for their friend. Back in the waiting room, Kiyoko smiled up at the TV that showed her friend.
Tamiko put her Angel Goggles on and activated them. She held Youzen as her opponent stepped out of the West door. It was a girl with an Eriol Academy High School uniform. She had brown-blond hair and ice blue eyes. Her Angel was sitting plainly on her shoulder. The Angel was female and muscular, obviously a Power type. She had a blond ponytail with a red Angel Cord coming down from it and she was dressed in Ancient Roman style armor colored red and brown.
"And in the West Corner, say hello to the 'Iron Maidens', Deus Kya Suzu and her Angel Venus!" the announcer cried.
Tamiko's eyes grew as wide as they could, as did Kiyoko's, and the others.
"WHA!!??" Ken cried, "why are THEY here!?"
(Oh, no,) Tamiko thought in quiet fear.
"Kya Suzu and her Angel Venus are well known for their rough fighting styles and have won many matches in the past!" the announcer continued as Suzu sat down in her Angel Chair, "can the 'Wiz Kid' and 'Blue Fighter' beat the 'Iron Maidens'?"
Suzu put on her Angel Goggles and turned them on as she smirked at Tamiko.
"Well, well, well, if it isn't the wimp," she remarked.
Tamiko tensed and gripped Youzen.
"Looks like we DO get to finish our match after all," Suzu continued, snidely, "should be fun."
Tamiko grit her teeth.
Kiyoko was staring at her friend in the TV in fear.
(Oh man! This is bad!) she thought, horrified that her friend had to face this bully alone, (I hope Tamiko and Youzen are okay out there.)
In the stands, Yuri was just as worried.
"I hope Tamiko doesn't let her fear of Venus get in the way," she whispered.
Takumi nodded. He knew what fear could do to a person.
"C'mon Tamiko, you can do it!" Ken cried.
Back at the Layer, the match was ready to begin.
"Entry Angel!"
At the sound of the buzzer and the flash of the force field, both Angel Chairs were raised. Tamiko couldn't move. She couldn't stop staring at Suzu in fright. Last time she fought her, Venus had hurt Youzen 'very' badly. And Youzen could hardly make a scratch on her. How were they going to win?
"Show no mercy, Venus!" Suzu cried, throwing Venus at the Layer, "Angel, Fall in!"
Venus slid through the force field, glowing. Her pale green eyes shot open and she landed square on the Layer, her arms were up and flexing, making the glow vanish. The Angel smiled at Tamiko, cockily.
Tamiko swallowed and took a deep breath. She knew she couldn't run away from this. She had no choice but to fight. She held Youzen with both hands and held him in front of her.
"Brains win over brawn!" she cried, shifting Youzen to her right hand, then drawing her right arm back, "Show'em Youzen!" she finished, throwing her Angel towards the Layer.
Youzen sailed towards the Layer and slid through the force field, making it ripple. He opened his violet eyes and the glow faded.
"Angel, Fall, in!" Tamiko finished.
Youzen somersaulted in the air and flung his legs downward on the third one. He extended his left leg and landed. He stood facing the direction of his foe and narrowed his eyes.
Both Angels were now facing one another: Venus and her Deus smiling, Youzen and his Deus frowning. In the stands, Ken, Takumi, and Yuri all watched in apprehension. Back in the waiting room, Kiyoko held her breath. Up in the balcony, above the stands, the seven girls watched silently. In the Computer Room, Icchan sat back in his chair, eyes on Tamiko.
"Angelic Fight!"
The buzzer sounded and the battle began. Venus started to run at Youzen at top speed. Youzen raised his arms into a guard position. Venus was on him before long and threw a left hook. Youzen quickly ducked and then backed up as Venus did a right hook. Youzen ran at Venus, but quickly backed away again as she threw an uppercut.
"What's the matter, wimp?" Suzu asked, smugly, "can't your Angel fight?"
Tamiko swallowed and tried to focus. Back in the waiting room, Kiyoko watched her friend.
(Don't worry Tamiko,) she thought, (just do what you told 'me' to do: relax and have confidence.)
Back in the Layer, however, Tamiko and Youzen were in a tight situation. Venus was throwing fast jabs at Youzen who was only just 'barely' dodging them. As if that wasn't bad enough for Tamiko, Venus was also forcing Youzen towards the edge of the Layer.
(Get out of there, Youzen!) Tamiko cried, mentally, realizing the opponents' strategy.
Youzen, now only inches from the Layers' edge, front flipped over Venus, and landed half a foot behind her. Venus turned and charged at Youzen. Youzen also charged, though he wasn't smiling like Venus was. When she was close enough, Venus threw a right jab. Youzen moved his head left to avoid the blow, then ducked to avoid the right hook. Venus kicked upwards with her left leg, but Youzen back flipped on the Layer to avoid being hit. He righted himself up and charged. Once again, Venus began throwing jabs at Youzen. With Tamiko's guidance, he avoided them, and jumped back. He clenched his teeth, just like his Deus was.
(I can't get close to her,) Tamiko realized in fear.
Suzu smiled.
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Icchan and Ogata were watching Tamiko's fight from the Computer Room's screen. Icchan watched the two Angels closely.
"She's not giving Youzen enough time to attack," he commented, "a typical Deus strategy."
Ogata watched as Youzen jumped back to avoid a punch.
"But still, he should be making more of an effort," he pointed out, "don't you think, Chief?"
Icchan said nothing. He just continued to watch the match.
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"Come ON, Tamiko!" Ken cried, "knock her flat!"
Takumi and Yuri watched silently in the stands. The girls on the balcony also watched without sound. Kiyoko watched in worry. Venus was still jabbing at Youzen, who continued to dodge and Suzu kept smiling as Tamiko merely panicked.
(I can't get close,) she thought, (how can I hit her if she won't let me?)
Youzen ducked another punch and, in a desperate attack, lunged forward with his right fist raised. Venus merely caught his fist and gave him left forward kick that caught him straight in the face. His eyes closed and he cried out mutely as he fell back, only a foot from the Layers' edge. His Damage dropped to 70%.
"Youzen!" Tamiko cried.
"There it is folks, Venus gives the first blow!" the announcer screamed, the audience cheered, "doesn't look too good for Angel Youzen!"
"Oh, man!" Ken cried, "Youzen lost a lot of damage!"
Takumi nodded.
"Power types like Venus have high attack power," he explained, "and Youzen just got a blow right in the face. It's a wonder how he stayed in the Layer."
Tamiko gave her Angel a worried glance. That was close. Too close. He nearly had a Layer Out.
"Looks like your Angel really is a wimp," Suzu commented, "just like his Deus."
Tamiko gave her opponent a look and had Youzen stand, though he did it shakily.
"We aren't done yet!" she called out to Suzu.
After a couple seconds, Youzen charged at Venus, his Angel Cords bouncing behind him. Venus smiled and got into a fighting position. Youzen continued to run at Venus, eyes narrowed. He was only inches away before he jumped into the air. Everyone looked up.
"What's Angel Youzen doing?" the announcer asked to no one in particular.
Youzens' back was to the lights as he became silhouetted. He was looking straight at Venus as he started to descend in her direction. Halfway to her, he curled up into a ball, spun a few times, and, when in front of Venus' face, thrust both his feet out. Both made contact with Venus' face as she fell on her bottom. Youzen landed as her Damage Gauge dropped to 95%.
"Wow! Youzens' counter exploded!" the announcer cried as the audience cheered, "too bad it didn't deal much damage!"
Venus got back up and started walking towards Youzen, who was backing away with a stressed expression. Tamiko swallowed. She'd hoped that such an attack would knock her Damage Gauge down more points. But she should have known: a Lightweight can't outweigh a Heavyweight.
"Looks like your little attack failed," Suzu mocked, "like I said, my Angel has an advantage over yours. You can try all you like, but you'll never beat Venus."
Tamiko frowned.
(Perhaps she was right,) she thought.
Venus suddenly charged and jabbed Youzen across the face, making him fall back. Tamiko gasped. Youzen quickly sat up and rolled onto his feet as Venus came charging at him. She threw a couple more jabs that Youzen hardly had time to dodge. Youzen jumped backwards and then ran at Venus. Venus smiled and stood ready. Youzen threw a couple fast jabs that Venus merely blocked. She then countered with a right spin kick that caught Youzen by the waist, tossing him about a foot away.
(Youzen, hang on!) Tamiko mentally shouted, seeing her Angel clenching his teeth at the hit.
His points had gone down to 55% and the timer was at 5 minutes. Tamiko knew she had to fight back, but her fear was still there. All she could see was a repeat of the first fight she had with Venus: all it took was a punch to damage Youzens' arm into immobility. She was starting to realize what had gotten Kiyoko all shaken up before.
"COME ON, TAMIKO!!" Ken screamed over the audience, "BEAT THAT SUCKER!!"
Takumi and Yuri watched in silence. Youzen shakily got up as Venus started to advance.
"Your friend isn't here to help you now!" Suzu continued to taunt, "and, speaking of her, I'll eventually have to fight her and her Angel in the Tournament, won't I? And when I do, I'll make them pay for embarrassing me in our fight, and I'll start by using her Angel as a punching bag."
Tamiko gasped and immediately thought of Raishinshi's fight with Higure and how upset Kiyoko was to see her Angel in such bad shape.
(There's no way Kiyoko can bare to see her Angel beat up like that again,) she thought, her fear slowly melting away, (I can't let Raishinshi wind up like Youzen did, I just can't!)
Venus had closed the distance between her and Youzen, and went to punch him again, but he caught her arm by the wrist. Blinking in confusion, Venus hesitated. Before she knew it she was being flipped over Youzens' shoulder and landed back on the Layer with a big thud. Venus' Damage dropped four points. The audience cheered again.
"Huh?" Suzu mumbled, quietly, "how'd her Angel do that?"
Venus got up and tried to right kick Youzen, but Youzen merely grabbed her foot, and threw it over Venus' head. Venus landed hard on her stomach. Angry now, Venus got up again, and tried to hit Youzen square in the face. But Youzen grabbed her fist, fell on his back, and pushed Venus over his head with his foot. She flipped onto her back, teeth grit. Suzu was more than annoyed at this point.
"Wow, it seems that Youzen is making a comeback after taking punishment from Venus' onslaught!" the announcer stated, "looks like this match isn't over yet!"
Suzu was looking straight at Youzen and narrowed her eyes. 'This' Angel was going down!
Venus got up again, frowning in annoyance this time, and ran straight for Youzen. Youzen held his ground and readied his fists. Venus started to execute a series of quick jabs and hooks, throwing a kick in every now and then. But Youzen managed to dodge them all, moving much more steadier than last time. Suzu grit her teeth. Tamiko took a deep breath.
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"Wow, how'd he get so lively all of a sudden?" Ogata asked, looking at Youzen, curiously, "a couple minutes ago, he could hardly avoid getting hit."
Icchan was smiling.
"I think Kya must've hit a nerve," he said, "Tamiko's getting her courage back." He frowned, then, however. "But this match is far from over."
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Venus continued to punch at Youzen, who was still dodging all the hits. Venus tried kicking at the blue Angel, but Youzen still managed to avoid being hit. Suzu was obviously getting aggravated and it was showing on Venus' face. The armored Angel lunged forward at Youzen, pale green eyes on fire. She swung her right fist into a right hook, but Youzen simply ducked. He then grabbed her by her forearm and threw her towards the Layers edge. Of course, being a Heavyweight, Venus didn't slide very much. She hardly came close to the edge. She got up and ran at Youzen again.
(Go, Tamiko, go!) Kiyoko thought, watching her friend.
"Keep it up, Tamiko!" Yuri called, getting excited. Though not as excited as Ken was. He was hopping up and down in his seat.
Venus went in for a right jab, but Youzen raised his left arm, and blocked while he delivered a fierce jab to Venus' jaw. Venus fell back a step, but that was all Youzen and Tamiko needed. Youzen lunged forward and started to jab Venus hard in the face. Venus could hardly block the punches and was slowly being driven back.
Suzu couldn't believe what was happening: a 'Lightweight' was forcing her 'Heavyweight' back! How had this 'wimp' and her 'wimpy Angel' gotten the upper hand all of a sudden when she could hardly faze Venus in their first encounter? She didn't care, she just wanted her Angel to win, nothing more.
Tamiko was focusing her hardest on the battle. It was true, she was afraid at first, and her focus was off. She was afraid of getting Youzen hurt like last time. Her fear got in the way of her fighting. But then Suzu threatened Kiyoko and Raishinshi; threatened to beat her friends' Angel like she had hers, and that had gotten Tamiko mad. The match with Yukiwa Saburo was bad enough for Kiyoko. If Raishinshi was to be beaten the way he had with Higure, Kiyoko wouldn't be able to bear it. She didn't want her friend to go through something like 'that' again.
Youzen was continuing to punch Venus, only now Venus was blocking. Venus now bore a stressed expression while Youzens' was one of anger. Venus was slowly being pushed back and the timer was at 3 minutes. Venus had managed to get some distance and went in for a left kick. Youzen blocked it and delivered a kick of his own. It hit Youzen square in the jaw. Venus stumbled back, her damage dropping to 75%. And that was enough to shock Suzu.
"How?!" she called to Tamiko, "how did your Angel get so strong?! Last time he could barely take a hit from Venus! What did you do to make your Angel stronger?!"
Tamiko gave the bully a mild glare.
" 'He' didn't get stronger," Tamiko declared, " 'I' did. Before I was afraid. Now I'm not. Not anymore. You're just a bully who wants to win. You don't even seem to care about your Angel."
Suzu winced.
"I-I do," she mumbled, then grew stern again, "but we came here to win! And we're going too!"
Venus recovered from her blow and leapt forward in a punch. Her right fist connected with Youzens' jaw and he went flying back. He crashed at the edge of the Layer, stunned. Tamiko gasped.
"Oh! That was close!" the announcer cried, "but looks like Venus is moving in for the kill!"
Venus, her grin returning, ran at Youzen full speed. The audience was cheering. Icchan and the girls were watching.
"Get up, Youzen!" Ken cried.
Youzen propped himself up on his elbows and turned his violet eyes on the charging red and brown Angel.
"We're going to win!" Suzu yelled to Tamiko, "and we'll win against your friend too!"
Tamiko's eyes narrowed. Youzen stayed in the position he was in and waited.
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"What's Youzen doing?" the brown-haired girl with blue eyes asked, watching Venus close in.
The tall girl looked carefully and raised an eyebrow.
Back in the Computer Room, Ogata was gawking in confusion.
"What's he doing?" he gaped, "why won't he move? He's going to get a Layer Out!"
But Icchan merely smiled.
(Tamiko's just as good as her friend,) he thought.
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Meanwhile, Venus was fast approaching. Youzen and Tamiko remained stock still. Venus finally leapt at the blue Angel, her fist raised.
"LOOK OUT!" Kiyoko cried, eyes wide in horror.
Venus aimed her fist at Youzens' face. With amazing speed, Youzen reached up, and grabbed Venus' fist with both hands. Venus' smile faded as Youzen dragged her forward and kicked upward with his right leg. Venus went flying over Youzens' head, slid out of the Layers' force field, and landed with a heavy click on the floor. Suzu gasped. Kiyoko beamed. And the audience cheered.
"Youzen Win!" the announcer declared, Youzens' picture flashing across the screen.
Tamiko smiled and let out a sigh of relief.
"Wow, what a move!" the announcer continued, "Youzen waited for Venus to get close enough and then flipped her out of the Layer! Clever one, Youzen!"
"Yes! Oh, yes! TAMI-CHAN WON!!" Ken screamed in delight.
Kiyoko was going nuts in the waiting room, twirling in a circle, Raishinshi held close. Yuri clapped like mad while Takumi merely smiled. There was someone else watching as well. Saburo was watching from a doorway.
"She waited for Venus to get within reach before having her Angel flip Venus out of the Layer," he murmured, "with the momentum Venus had built up running, even a Heavyweight like that would go flying." He closed his eyes. "But it's also a simple move. Anyone could have done it." Without saying anything else, Saburo left the doorway.
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Tamiko gently took Youzen out of the Layer. She smiled down at him.
"Good job, Youzen," she whispered to him.
She then turned to see Suzu was kneeling on the ground, Venus in her hands.
"How?" she mumbled, "how could I lose with the advantage I had?"
Tamiko frowned at the older girl.
"Angelic Layer has got nothing to do with strengths and weakness'," she explained, quietly, "it has to do with the faith you put in you and your Angel."
Suzu looked up at her, puzzled.
"It doesn't matter if you've got a Heavyweight or a Lightweight, a Speed type or a Power type," Tamiko continued, "what matters is how much you love your Angel. If you have faith, and truly love your Angel, you can do anything."
Suzu frowned.
"I was so wrapped up thinking I could pull an easy win, I forgot about believing in my Angel," she admitted in whisper, staring down at her Angel, "I thought Venus could handle anything. I guess I was wrong." She got up and turned to Tamiko. "Uh...I'm sorry about last time. I shouldn't have acted that way. I just want to fight my hardest when I'm in the Layer. I want to become stronger."
Tamiko gave her a smile.
"I think all Deus' are like that," she said, "with every match, I believe that Youzen and I grow stronger. We just have to believe in ourselves."
Suzu managed a slight smile, but looked embarrassed.
"Yeah, well, I guess I have to work on that," she said, and held out her hand, "so, congrats for winning."
Tamiko smiled, took her hand, and shook it. The audience cheered.
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The girls in the balcony were watching everything. The short, brown-haired girl was clapping with the little girl and the girl with the frilly dress. The tall girl gave one of her rare smiles.
"That girl and the girl with the purple Angel," she spoke up, getting the others' attention, "they don't make many Deus' like that anymore."
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*Uh...konya mo mata...*
Tamiko entered the waiting room to meet an excited Kiyoko.
"That was GREAT Tamiko!" she cheered.
*....hakanai hoshi zora*
Tamiko smiled.
"Thanks, I was worried there for a minute," she admitted, "at least we have time for our next match, so we can hang out with the others."
*Uh...hikaru hoshi ni....*
"Alright! I can't wait to tell Dad about this!" Kiyoko beamed, holding her Angel closer.
She didn't notice someone stick their head into the room.
*....negai o kakeru kara*
Icchan smiled at the cheering girls before quickly ducking back out.
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PHEW! It took me a while to write that. At least I'm done. Sorry if some parts sound cheesy, but with Finals coming up, it's hard for me to focus. But I'm gonna try to do better next time. Speaking of which, next time, Kiyoko has to go up against a Heavyweight Angel herself. Wanna gues who it is? Find out next time! Please review, no flames!
Disclaimer: Hi all! It took me a while, but here it is, Battle 7. Sorry if it's short and
cheesy, but I have a hard time focusing on another character. But, anyway,
in this chapter, Tamiko has to fight the same bully who beat up Youzen last
time. Can she beat her? I don't own
Angelic Layer, or any of its original characters. I 'do' own Kiyoko Yume,
Angel Raishinshi, Kiyoko's friends and family, Tamiko, Angel Youzen,
Saburo, Angel Higure, and any other new Angels and Deus' that pop up.
Now, onward!
Battle 7: "Don't Give Up, Tamiko! Youzen and Venus' Rematch!"
The Angelic Layer Stadium was full of people still, only these people were now excited beyond belief. There were many amazing battles that took place earlier: the match with Higure and Suzuka, though the shortest, were the most exciting to witness. And the appearance of Angel Mao and her Deus was also a treat. However, the match that was currently being talked about was the battle that was just won: the match between Angels' Raishinshi and Shadow Panther. Not everyone could beat a fast, agile Angel like Shadow Panther, but Raishinshi, in a come from behind strategy, was able to knock her out of the Layer. It got everyone's attention....especially the friends' of the Deus who owned him.
"Wow, what a cool match!" Ken cried from his seat.
"I agree with you there, Ken," Yuri agreed, then turned to her brother, "do you think Tamiko'll be next?"
"Do you think Tamiko will fight next?" she asked.
"Most likely," he replied, "wonder who she'll be fighting?"
Ken shrugged.
"Whoever it is, Tamiko can beat her! Just like Kiyoko and Raishinshi did with Shadow Panther! Yeah!" Ken cheered, waving his arms around.
Takumi smiled.
"That 'was' a good match," he complemented, "Raishinshi's movement improved a lot."
"And Kiyoko's gotten good at strategies," Yuri added.
"Not to mention that finishing move was brilliant," Takumi mentioned, "she 'really' must have practiced hard these last three days."
Ken turned to him and nodded.
"And if 'she' did well," Ken stated, "then I 'know' Tamiko will do just as good!"
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Kiyoko ran down the pink hallway, a wide smile present on her face, and came to the East Side waiting room. She ran in and instantly spotted Tamiko waiting for her by the door.
"I did it, Tamiko! We won!" she cried, holding Raishinshi to her chest.
Tamiko smiled and ran over to her friend.
"I know, I saw!" she replied, "that was great! How did you come up with that strategy?"
Kiyoko smiled.
"I came up with it when I remembered Mao's fight," she answered, "I didn't really think it'd work."
"Well, it did!" Tamiko beamed, "and you got past the first round!"
Kiyoko smiled even wider and glanced down at her Angel.
"I have to thank you, Tamiko," she stated.
Tamiko blinked.
"What for?" she asked.
"For helping me relax for the fight of course," her friend explained, "I did what you said: I believed in myself and in Raishinshi and we won!"
Tamiko smiled and patted her friend on the shoulder.
"Well, it works for me," she grinned.
At that moment, one of the ladies in uniform walked into the room.
"Ms. E-8, Kotoko Tamiko?" she called.
Tamiko turned to her.
"Here ma'am," she said.
The lady smiled at her politeness.
"You're up next," she said, gesturing to the hall.
Tamiko nodded and got Youzen from her uniform pocket. She turned to Kiyoko.
"I'm next, wish me luck," she said, heading out the door.
Kiyoko waved.
"Good luck!" she called, smiling.
She then looked down at Raishinshi. He was asleep again, but smiling slightly. Kiyoko smiled at him.
"We won our first Official Tournament Match, Raishinshi," she whispered, "and it's all because you hung in there for me. Let's do our best, okay?"
Raishinshi did nothing, but continue to smile.
Meanwhile, down the hall, Tamiko was staring down at Youzen. He, too, was sleeping silently in her hands.
"Let's do our best, Youzen," she told him.
Like Raishinshi, he didn't give a reply.
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Icchan looked up from the Tournament Roster, frowning. Ogata noticed this.
"Is something the matter with the roster, Chief?" he asked.
Icchan turned to the Visual Screen and sighed. He knew that the roster was posted in front of the Entry Counter every match. He wondered if Tamiko saw who her next opponent was.
(I guess Kiyoko isn't the only one who has to overcome her fears today,) he thought as the Layer lights lit up.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
"Get ready ladies and gents! Battle 8 is coming up!" the announcer declared as all lights focused back on the Layer. The Angel girls held up cards that read, 'Battle 8', before leaving.
Back in the stands, Ken was watching the Layer circle for any signs of...
"Tamiko-chan!" he cried suddenly, pointing to the East door. Takumi and Yuri looked to where he pointed.
Sure enough, it 'was' Tamiko who came walking out of the East door. Youzen was with her. He was sitting on her raised forearm, hands resting on her arm, and legs slanted to the right a little. Like how the Anime Youzen sat on his 'flight paopei'. Tamiko walked towards the Layer as the announcer introduced her.
"In the East Corner, please welcome back a familiar face to Angelic Layer!" the announcer cried as Tamiko slid into her seat, "she's been competing in Tournaments for about a year and a half and has proven her worth here in the Layer! The 'Wiz Kid' Deus Kotoko Tamiko and the 'Blue Fighter' Angel Youzen!"
The audience cheered.
"Go Tamiko-chan!" Ken cried.
Yuri and Takumi clapped for their friend. Back in the waiting room, Kiyoko smiled up at the TV that showed her friend.
Tamiko put her Angel Goggles on and activated them. She held Youzen as her opponent stepped out of the West door. It was a girl with an Eriol Academy High School uniform. She had brown-blond hair and ice blue eyes. Her Angel was sitting plainly on her shoulder. The Angel was female and muscular, obviously a Power type. She had a blond ponytail with a red Angel Cord coming down from it and she was dressed in Ancient Roman style armor colored red and brown.
"And in the West Corner, say hello to the 'Iron Maidens', Deus Kya Suzu and her Angel Venus!" the announcer cried.
Tamiko's eyes grew as wide as they could, as did Kiyoko's, and the others.
"WHA!!??" Ken cried, "why are THEY here!?"
(Oh, no,) Tamiko thought in quiet fear.
"Kya Suzu and her Angel Venus are well known for their rough fighting styles and have won many matches in the past!" the announcer continued as Suzu sat down in her Angel Chair, "can the 'Wiz Kid' and 'Blue Fighter' beat the 'Iron Maidens'?"
Suzu put on her Angel Goggles and turned them on as she smirked at Tamiko.
"Well, well, well, if it isn't the wimp," she remarked.
Tamiko tensed and gripped Youzen.
"Looks like we DO get to finish our match after all," Suzu continued, snidely, "should be fun."
Tamiko grit her teeth.
Kiyoko was staring at her friend in the TV in fear.
(Oh man! This is bad!) she thought, horrified that her friend had to face this bully alone, (I hope Tamiko and Youzen are okay out there.)
In the stands, Yuri was just as worried.
"I hope Tamiko doesn't let her fear of Venus get in the way," she whispered.
Takumi nodded. He knew what fear could do to a person.
"C'mon Tamiko, you can do it!" Ken cried.
Back at the Layer, the match was ready to begin.
"Entry Angel!"
At the sound of the buzzer and the flash of the force field, both Angel Chairs were raised. Tamiko couldn't move. She couldn't stop staring at Suzu in fright. Last time she fought her, Venus had hurt Youzen 'very' badly. And Youzen could hardly make a scratch on her. How were they going to win?
"Show no mercy, Venus!" Suzu cried, throwing Venus at the Layer, "Angel, Fall in!"
Venus slid through the force field, glowing. Her pale green eyes shot open and she landed square on the Layer, her arms were up and flexing, making the glow vanish. The Angel smiled at Tamiko, cockily.
Tamiko swallowed and took a deep breath. She knew she couldn't run away from this. She had no choice but to fight. She held Youzen with both hands and held him in front of her.
"Brains win over brawn!" she cried, shifting Youzen to her right hand, then drawing her right arm back, "Show'em Youzen!" she finished, throwing her Angel towards the Layer.
Youzen sailed towards the Layer and slid through the force field, making it ripple. He opened his violet eyes and the glow faded.
"Angel, Fall, in!" Tamiko finished.
Youzen somersaulted in the air and flung his legs downward on the third one. He extended his left leg and landed. He stood facing the direction of his foe and narrowed his eyes.
Both Angels were now facing one another: Venus and her Deus smiling, Youzen and his Deus frowning. In the stands, Ken, Takumi, and Yuri all watched in apprehension. Back in the waiting room, Kiyoko held her breath. Up in the balcony, above the stands, the seven girls watched silently. In the Computer Room, Icchan sat back in his chair, eyes on Tamiko.
"Angelic Fight!"
The buzzer sounded and the battle began. Venus started to run at Youzen at top speed. Youzen raised his arms into a guard position. Venus was on him before long and threw a left hook. Youzen quickly ducked and then backed up as Venus did a right hook. Youzen ran at Venus, but quickly backed away again as she threw an uppercut.
"What's the matter, wimp?" Suzu asked, smugly, "can't your Angel fight?"
Tamiko swallowed and tried to focus. Back in the waiting room, Kiyoko watched her friend.
(Don't worry Tamiko,) she thought, (just do what you told 'me' to do: relax and have confidence.)
Back in the Layer, however, Tamiko and Youzen were in a tight situation. Venus was throwing fast jabs at Youzen who was only just 'barely' dodging them. As if that wasn't bad enough for Tamiko, Venus was also forcing Youzen towards the edge of the Layer.
(Get out of there, Youzen!) Tamiko cried, mentally, realizing the opponents' strategy.
Youzen, now only inches from the Layers' edge, front flipped over Venus, and landed half a foot behind her. Venus turned and charged at Youzen. Youzen also charged, though he wasn't smiling like Venus was. When she was close enough, Venus threw a right jab. Youzen moved his head left to avoid the blow, then ducked to avoid the right hook. Venus kicked upwards with her left leg, but Youzen back flipped on the Layer to avoid being hit. He righted himself up and charged. Once again, Venus began throwing jabs at Youzen. With Tamiko's guidance, he avoided them, and jumped back. He clenched his teeth, just like his Deus was.
(I can't get close to her,) Tamiko realized in fear.
Suzu smiled.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Icchan and Ogata were watching Tamiko's fight from the Computer Room's screen. Icchan watched the two Angels closely.
"She's not giving Youzen enough time to attack," he commented, "a typical Deus strategy."
Ogata watched as Youzen jumped back to avoid a punch.
"But still, he should be making more of an effort," he pointed out, "don't you think, Chief?"
Icchan said nothing. He just continued to watch the match.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
"Come ON, Tamiko!" Ken cried, "knock her flat!"
Takumi and Yuri watched silently in the stands. The girls on the balcony also watched without sound. Kiyoko watched in worry. Venus was still jabbing at Youzen, who continued to dodge and Suzu kept smiling as Tamiko merely panicked.
(I can't get close,) she thought, (how can I hit her if she won't let me?)
Youzen ducked another punch and, in a desperate attack, lunged forward with his right fist raised. Venus merely caught his fist and gave him left forward kick that caught him straight in the face. His eyes closed and he cried out mutely as he fell back, only a foot from the Layers' edge. His Damage dropped to 70%.
"Youzen!" Tamiko cried.
"There it is folks, Venus gives the first blow!" the announcer screamed, the audience cheered, "doesn't look too good for Angel Youzen!"
"Oh, man!" Ken cried, "Youzen lost a lot of damage!"
Takumi nodded.
"Power types like Venus have high attack power," he explained, "and Youzen just got a blow right in the face. It's a wonder how he stayed in the Layer."
Tamiko gave her Angel a worried glance. That was close. Too close. He nearly had a Layer Out.
"Looks like your Angel really is a wimp," Suzu commented, "just like his Deus."
Tamiko gave her opponent a look and had Youzen stand, though he did it shakily.
"We aren't done yet!" she called out to Suzu.
After a couple seconds, Youzen charged at Venus, his Angel Cords bouncing behind him. Venus smiled and got into a fighting position. Youzen continued to run at Venus, eyes narrowed. He was only inches away before he jumped into the air. Everyone looked up.
"What's Angel Youzen doing?" the announcer asked to no one in particular.
Youzens' back was to the lights as he became silhouetted. He was looking straight at Venus as he started to descend in her direction. Halfway to her, he curled up into a ball, spun a few times, and, when in front of Venus' face, thrust both his feet out. Both made contact with Venus' face as she fell on her bottom. Youzen landed as her Damage Gauge dropped to 95%.
"Wow! Youzens' counter exploded!" the announcer cried as the audience cheered, "too bad it didn't deal much damage!"
Venus got back up and started walking towards Youzen, who was backing away with a stressed expression. Tamiko swallowed. She'd hoped that such an attack would knock her Damage Gauge down more points. But she should have known: a Lightweight can't outweigh a Heavyweight.
"Looks like your little attack failed," Suzu mocked, "like I said, my Angel has an advantage over yours. You can try all you like, but you'll never beat Venus."
Tamiko frowned.
(Perhaps she was right,) she thought.
Venus suddenly charged and jabbed Youzen across the face, making him fall back. Tamiko gasped. Youzen quickly sat up and rolled onto his feet as Venus came charging at him. She threw a couple more jabs that Youzen hardly had time to dodge. Youzen jumped backwards and then ran at Venus. Venus smiled and stood ready. Youzen threw a couple fast jabs that Venus merely blocked. She then countered with a right spin kick that caught Youzen by the waist, tossing him about a foot away.
(Youzen, hang on!) Tamiko mentally shouted, seeing her Angel clenching his teeth at the hit.
His points had gone down to 55% and the timer was at 5 minutes. Tamiko knew she had to fight back, but her fear was still there. All she could see was a repeat of the first fight she had with Venus: all it took was a punch to damage Youzens' arm into immobility. She was starting to realize what had gotten Kiyoko all shaken up before.
"COME ON, TAMIKO!!" Ken screamed over the audience, "BEAT THAT SUCKER!!"
Takumi and Yuri watched in silence. Youzen shakily got up as Venus started to advance.
"Your friend isn't here to help you now!" Suzu continued to taunt, "and, speaking of her, I'll eventually have to fight her and her Angel in the Tournament, won't I? And when I do, I'll make them pay for embarrassing me in our fight, and I'll start by using her Angel as a punching bag."
Tamiko gasped and immediately thought of Raishinshi's fight with Higure and how upset Kiyoko was to see her Angel in such bad shape.
(There's no way Kiyoko can bare to see her Angel beat up like that again,) she thought, her fear slowly melting away, (I can't let Raishinshi wind up like Youzen did, I just can't!)
Venus had closed the distance between her and Youzen, and went to punch him again, but he caught her arm by the wrist. Blinking in confusion, Venus hesitated. Before she knew it she was being flipped over Youzens' shoulder and landed back on the Layer with a big thud. Venus' Damage dropped four points. The audience cheered again.
"Huh?" Suzu mumbled, quietly, "how'd her Angel do that?"
Venus got up and tried to right kick Youzen, but Youzen merely grabbed her foot, and threw it over Venus' head. Venus landed hard on her stomach. Angry now, Venus got up again, and tried to hit Youzen square in the face. But Youzen grabbed her fist, fell on his back, and pushed Venus over his head with his foot. She flipped onto her back, teeth grit. Suzu was more than annoyed at this point.
"Wow, it seems that Youzen is making a comeback after taking punishment from Venus' onslaught!" the announcer stated, "looks like this match isn't over yet!"
Suzu was looking straight at Youzen and narrowed her eyes. 'This' Angel was going down!
Venus got up again, frowning in annoyance this time, and ran straight for Youzen. Youzen held his ground and readied his fists. Venus started to execute a series of quick jabs and hooks, throwing a kick in every now and then. But Youzen managed to dodge them all, moving much more steadier than last time. Suzu grit her teeth. Tamiko took a deep breath.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
"Wow, how'd he get so lively all of a sudden?" Ogata asked, looking at Youzen, curiously, "a couple minutes ago, he could hardly avoid getting hit."
Icchan was smiling.
"I think Kya must've hit a nerve," he said, "Tamiko's getting her courage back." He frowned, then, however. "But this match is far from over."
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Venus continued to punch at Youzen, who was still dodging all the hits. Venus tried kicking at the blue Angel, but Youzen still managed to avoid being hit. Suzu was obviously getting aggravated and it was showing on Venus' face. The armored Angel lunged forward at Youzen, pale green eyes on fire. She swung her right fist into a right hook, but Youzen simply ducked. He then grabbed her by her forearm and threw her towards the Layers edge. Of course, being a Heavyweight, Venus didn't slide very much. She hardly came close to the edge. She got up and ran at Youzen again.
(Go, Tamiko, go!) Kiyoko thought, watching her friend.
"Keep it up, Tamiko!" Yuri called, getting excited. Though not as excited as Ken was. He was hopping up and down in his seat.
Venus went in for a right jab, but Youzen raised his left arm, and blocked while he delivered a fierce jab to Venus' jaw. Venus fell back a step, but that was all Youzen and Tamiko needed. Youzen lunged forward and started to jab Venus hard in the face. Venus could hardly block the punches and was slowly being driven back.
Suzu couldn't believe what was happening: a 'Lightweight' was forcing her 'Heavyweight' back! How had this 'wimp' and her 'wimpy Angel' gotten the upper hand all of a sudden when she could hardly faze Venus in their first encounter? She didn't care, she just wanted her Angel to win, nothing more.
Tamiko was focusing her hardest on the battle. It was true, she was afraid at first, and her focus was off. She was afraid of getting Youzen hurt like last time. Her fear got in the way of her fighting. But then Suzu threatened Kiyoko and Raishinshi; threatened to beat her friends' Angel like she had hers, and that had gotten Tamiko mad. The match with Yukiwa Saburo was bad enough for Kiyoko. If Raishinshi was to be beaten the way he had with Higure, Kiyoko wouldn't be able to bear it. She didn't want her friend to go through something like 'that' again.
Youzen was continuing to punch Venus, only now Venus was blocking. Venus now bore a stressed expression while Youzens' was one of anger. Venus was slowly being pushed back and the timer was at 3 minutes. Venus had managed to get some distance and went in for a left kick. Youzen blocked it and delivered a kick of his own. It hit Youzen square in the jaw. Venus stumbled back, her damage dropping to 75%. And that was enough to shock Suzu.
"How?!" she called to Tamiko, "how did your Angel get so strong?! Last time he could barely take a hit from Venus! What did you do to make your Angel stronger?!"
Tamiko gave the bully a mild glare.
" 'He' didn't get stronger," Tamiko declared, " 'I' did. Before I was afraid. Now I'm not. Not anymore. You're just a bully who wants to win. You don't even seem to care about your Angel."
Suzu winced.
"I-I do," she mumbled, then grew stern again, "but we came here to win! And we're going too!"
Venus recovered from her blow and leapt forward in a punch. Her right fist connected with Youzens' jaw and he went flying back. He crashed at the edge of the Layer, stunned. Tamiko gasped.
"Oh! That was close!" the announcer cried, "but looks like Venus is moving in for the kill!"
Venus, her grin returning, ran at Youzen full speed. The audience was cheering. Icchan and the girls were watching.
"Get up, Youzen!" Ken cried.
Youzen propped himself up on his elbows and turned his violet eyes on the charging red and brown Angel.
"We're going to win!" Suzu yelled to Tamiko, "and we'll win against your friend too!"
Tamiko's eyes narrowed. Youzen stayed in the position he was in and waited.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
"What's Youzen doing?" the brown-haired girl with blue eyes asked, watching Venus close in.
The tall girl looked carefully and raised an eyebrow.
Back in the Computer Room, Ogata was gawking in confusion.
"What's he doing?" he gaped, "why won't he move? He's going to get a Layer Out!"
But Icchan merely smiled.
(Tamiko's just as good as her friend,) he thought.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Meanwhile, Venus was fast approaching. Youzen and Tamiko remained stock still. Venus finally leapt at the blue Angel, her fist raised.
"LOOK OUT!" Kiyoko cried, eyes wide in horror.
Venus aimed her fist at Youzens' face. With amazing speed, Youzen reached up, and grabbed Venus' fist with both hands. Venus' smile faded as Youzen dragged her forward and kicked upward with his right leg. Venus went flying over Youzens' head, slid out of the Layers' force field, and landed with a heavy click on the floor. Suzu gasped. Kiyoko beamed. And the audience cheered.
"Youzen Win!" the announcer declared, Youzens' picture flashing across the screen.
Tamiko smiled and let out a sigh of relief.
"Wow, what a move!" the announcer continued, "Youzen waited for Venus to get close enough and then flipped her out of the Layer! Clever one, Youzen!"
"Yes! Oh, yes! TAMI-CHAN WON!!" Ken screamed in delight.
Kiyoko was going nuts in the waiting room, twirling in a circle, Raishinshi held close. Yuri clapped like mad while Takumi merely smiled. There was someone else watching as well. Saburo was watching from a doorway.
"She waited for Venus to get within reach before having her Angel flip Venus out of the Layer," he murmured, "with the momentum Venus had built up running, even a Heavyweight like that would go flying." He closed his eyes. "But it's also a simple move. Anyone could have done it." Without saying anything else, Saburo left the doorway.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Tamiko gently took Youzen out of the Layer. She smiled down at him.
"Good job, Youzen," she whispered to him.
She then turned to see Suzu was kneeling on the ground, Venus in her hands.
"How?" she mumbled, "how could I lose with the advantage I had?"
Tamiko frowned at the older girl.
"Angelic Layer has got nothing to do with strengths and weakness'," she explained, quietly, "it has to do with the faith you put in you and your Angel."
Suzu looked up at her, puzzled.
"It doesn't matter if you've got a Heavyweight or a Lightweight, a Speed type or a Power type," Tamiko continued, "what matters is how much you love your Angel. If you have faith, and truly love your Angel, you can do anything."
Suzu frowned.
"I was so wrapped up thinking I could pull an easy win, I forgot about believing in my Angel," she admitted in whisper, staring down at her Angel, "I thought Venus could handle anything. I guess I was wrong." She got up and turned to Tamiko. "Uh...I'm sorry about last time. I shouldn't have acted that way. I just want to fight my hardest when I'm in the Layer. I want to become stronger."
Tamiko gave her a smile.
"I think all Deus' are like that," she said, "with every match, I believe that Youzen and I grow stronger. We just have to believe in ourselves."
Suzu managed a slight smile, but looked embarrassed.
"Yeah, well, I guess I have to work on that," she said, and held out her hand, "so, congrats for winning."
Tamiko smiled, took her hand, and shook it. The audience cheered.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
The girls in the balcony were watching everything. The short, brown-haired girl was clapping with the little girl and the girl with the frilly dress. The tall girl gave one of her rare smiles.
"That girl and the girl with the purple Angel," she spoke up, getting the others' attention, "they don't make many Deus' like that anymore."
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
*Uh...konya mo mata...*
Tamiko entered the waiting room to meet an excited Kiyoko.
"That was GREAT Tamiko!" she cheered.
*....hakanai hoshi zora*
Tamiko smiled.
"Thanks, I was worried there for a minute," she admitted, "at least we have time for our next match, so we can hang out with the others."
*Uh...hikaru hoshi ni....*
"Alright! I can't wait to tell Dad about this!" Kiyoko beamed, holding her Angel closer.
She didn't notice someone stick their head into the room.
*....negai o kakeru kara*
Icchan smiled at the cheering girls before quickly ducking back out.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
PHEW! It took me a while to write that. At least I'm done. Sorry if some parts sound cheesy, but with Finals coming up, it's hard for me to focus. But I'm gonna try to do better next time. Speaking of which, next time, Kiyoko has to go up against a Heavyweight Angel herself. Wanna gues who it is? Find out next time! Please review, no flames!