My Angel Story
Disclaimer
*A pile of papers and textbooks is in view. The pile shakes for a few seconds before exploding outwards to reveal DayDreamer9*
GAH!! GOMEN NASAII!! I'm SO sorry for not updating. I've not only been busy doing FCAT, but I've been swamped with homework for two weeks. So sorry. Anyway, in this chapter, Kiyoko has to fight a friend, but who? And can she bring herself to fight? The reason for Yamamo-san's name change, appearance corrections for Maria and Tsubaki, and another special appearance from Oujiro-san at the end are included. I also need to know whether or not Shuuko still uses her wheelchair (I've heard rumors that she was cured or something). I also wanna give some special thanks to my reviewers:
Emily*Arcanister: Thanks for giving me my first encouraging review.
Sana Jisushi: Thanks Jisu-chan! Thanks for your support. Keep writing good chappies :)
Admiral Fern: Thanks for the tips and info you gave me. I owe a lot to you.
Little Rabbit f/LRPLI: Thankies for your support.
tjal: Thanks for your insight, it helped me a lot.
crystal-flame123: Thanks for supporting my chappies.
Kazumi Kairi or Kairi-chan: Don't worry. I'll put in some romance soon.
Enigma-Nemesis: Arigatou gozaimasu! Your review helped me think hard for this chappie.
And to all you other reviewers of mine: THANKIES :)
I don't own Angelic Layer or any of the OC's. I 'do', however, own Kiyoko Yume, Angel Raishinshi, Kiyoko's family and friends, Saburo, Higure, Tamiko, Youzen, Junko, and Kara. Now, on with the fic! I hope you like it!
Battle 14: "Junko-chan Is My Opponent?! Kiyoko's Nervous Decision!"
It was early morning in the Yume household and Aya was already downstairs, eating her breakfast. Mrs. Yume was busy in the kitchen, preparing coffee for herself. She glanced at the clock on the kitchen wall.
"I hope Kiyoko is awake," she mumbled, "or she's going to be late for school."
"Again," Aya added from the table.
Mrs. Yume turned to her eldest daughter.
"It's not her fault she's a heavy sleeper," she informed, then smiled, "you used to be just like that when you were her age. Only difference was that I had to go up and wake you."
Aya rolled her eyes and stuffed some egg in her mouth.
"At least 'I' grew out of it, unlike some people who stay up half the night talking to their 'doll'," she grumbled, swallowing her egg.
"Morning!"
Both turned to see Kiyoko, in her uniform, trot into the Dining Room with Raishinshi on her shoulder.
"Good morning Kiyoko," Mrs. Yume replied, picking up the coffee pot, "sleep well?"
Kiyoko plopped into her seat and placed Raishinshi on the table edge besides her.
"Yep," she said, "we slept great. We're all ready for today."
Aya stared at her.
"She was talking about 'you', not your 'doll'," she commented, earning herself a glare from her little sister.
Mrs. Yume shook her head as Kiyoko began on her egg.
"Even dolls have to sleep, Aya," she said, sitting down at the table, "especially with their match today. Who're you going to be fighting today, Kiyoko?"
The 12 year-old brunette shrugged as she swallowed her egg.
"I dunno," she said, "we won't know until we check the roster."
Aya sighed as her mother and sister continued to chat about Angelic Layer.
(All this over a bunch of dolls,) she thought.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Kiyoko 'was' late again for school and Ken spent half of 1st period teasing her about it. By the time 3rd came around, though, it was all forgotten. They were too busy making dumplings together for today's assignment in 'Home Economics'. Lucky for Kiyoko and Tamiko, Junko was on their team. She was the best cook out of all the kids in that class and was getting better grades than anyone else. She was a girl from a rich family and most kids thought she was a snob when she arrived at Eriol Academy. But Kiyoko and her friends got to know her and found out that she wasn't the rich snob she was always assumed to be. Currently, their group and Yuri's were the only two cooking groups that hadn't burnt anything yet.
"Wow, the dumplings are coming out better than I thought," Kiyoko commented, taking a look dumplings.
Tamiko smiled and turned to Junko.
"You're good at preparing meals, Junko," she complemented, "you'll be a famous Chef one day."
Junko blushed and looked away.
"No, I'm not that good, really," she insisted.
Kiyoko straightened up from looking into the classes mini-stove and turned to Junko.
"Yes you are, Junko-chan," she insisted, "you're better than me."
Tamiko grinned, slyly.
"Yeah," she said, "like the time you nearly burned the classroom down two weeks ago."
Kiyoko gave Tamiko a look while Junko chuckled at the memory.
"I just turned away for a minute," she protested, then sighed, "that's why we let Junko-chan handle the stove stuff."
Junko smiled and went besides Kiyoko to check on the dumplings.
"You're pretty good at mixing ingredients, Kiyoko," she said, checking the temperature of the stove, "and Tamiko is good at measurements. You're both good at cooking, you just have to learn not to take your eyes off the stove for too long."
Kiyoko rolled her eyes as Tamiko chuckled at that last statement.
"Anyway," Kiyoko piped in, "how do you guys feel about the Tournament after school?"
Tamiko shrugged.
"I got through my matches and Youzen and I are still in one piece," she said, smiling in the direction of her school bag, where her Angel slept, "I think we'll be okay."
Junko looked up from the stove.
"It really doesn't matter to me," she said, playing with her hair, timidly, "Kara and I just play for fun. After all, Angelic Layer 'is' a game."
"And it's a really great one," Tamiko concluded.
All three girls nodded at that statement. Junko then turned to Kiyoko.
"Why? How do you feel about the Tournament, Kiyoko?" she asked, "you did terrific in your matches the other day."
Tamiko brightened.
"Yeah, you beat Hatoko-san and Suzuka," Tamiko said, excited, "you and Raishinshi have nothing to worry about."
Junko turned to them both.
"I still can't believe you two are friends with Kobayashi Hatoko now," she said, "if you hadn't introduced me to her I never would've known."
Kiyoko, embarrassed, looked at the floor.
"Well........we just met that day," she mumbled, "and I can't help but wonder who my next opponent is."
Tamiko shrugged as Junko checked the stove again.
"I just keep myself busy until the Tournament comes," she said, "that way I don't stress out."
Junko looked up from the stove.
"Yes, stress can get in the way in a fight," she agreed, "trying to be relieved of stress in time for the Tournament is something all Deus' should do. That way they won't lose focus on their Angel."
Kiyoko smiled. Junko was really smart when it came to analyzing the bond between Deus and Angel. But she couldn't help but worry about her next match. Raishinshi had barely made it through his match with Suzuka the other day and she was worrying that it might happen again. But the thought of all her friends being there at the Stadium, cheering her on, was enough to boost her confidence a bit. And, of course, her fathers' advice and Hatoko's words of 'believing' echoed in her mind.
(As long as I believe.........)
The sound of a small explosion and a burst of shouts drew the three girls' attention away from their conversation and over to Kens' group. Smoke was coming from the oven while Ken and two other boys were panicking and calling for the teacher. Tamiko rolled her eyes at the sight.
"If anyone needs to take cooking lessons from Junko, it'd be Ken," she mumbled.
All three girls started laughing.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Ogata checked his watch. It was an hour and a half until the fourth day of the Tournament took place and he couldn't find the Chief. Again.
(Why does he always have to disappear just before the games start?) the dark-haired man wondered, booting up his computer, (ever since I gave him the roster for today he's been acting weird, now he's vanished. I just hope he's back in time for the start of the.........)
"Ogata?"
Ogata nearly jumped a foot in the air at the sound of another voice. He turned to see Yuko standing in the doorway, folders in her hand. He sighed.
"Oh, Yuko, you startled me," he said, turning around to completely to face her, "for a second I thought you were the Chief."
Yuko stared at him.
"He's not here?" she asked, surprised, "but only a few minutes ago he asked me to type out some data for him."
Ogata scratched his head and then glanced at the folders.
"Are those it?" he asked.
Yuko looked down at them and nodded.
"Yeah, they're the data on the fights from the 5th Official Tournament," she said, moving to her own computer, "Chief wanted to compare one set with another."
Ogata watched her boot up her computer as he thought about what she just said.
"Compare them?" he repeated, "who'd he compare them with?"
Yuko only shrugged.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
The minute the school bell rang, the kids of Eriol Academy stampeded out of their rooms, and out into the schoolyard. Half of them were heading home, but an even bigger half was heading for Piffle Princess. The Tokyo Prelims' was at its fourth day. Once the one on Friday was over, the six selected Deus' would be off to the Kanto Prelims. All the kids were excited. Most cheered for stars like Fujisaki Madoka, Seto Ringo, Kobayashi Hatoko, and, of course, Yukiwa Saburo. Others rooted well-known regulars like Tamiko and Junko. But one of the most talked about issues on the Middle School level was Kiyoko. Nobody could believe a rookie like her could make it this far, and even beat a star Deus. Right now, Kiyoko and her friends were on their way to the Stadium, talking as they went.
"There are only four matches left for you guys," Takumi said, turning to the girls, "then you'll be off to the Kanto Prelims."
Ken grinned in their direction.
"Yeah, then you'll be fighting against all the Deus' from the region of Kanto!" he cried, running ahead of them, jumping with excitement, "then you can kick all of 'their' butts!"
Takumi rolled his eyes as the girls laughed at the sight. As they walked past the two flower shops, Yuri turned to Kiyoko.
"Are you nervous?" she asked, "about your next match, I mean?"
Kiyoko turned to Yuri with a look of embarrassment.
"Well.........yes," she admitted, knowing that she couldn't hide anything from Yuri, "I know I have more faith in Raishinshi and myself, but........."
"You're afraid he'll get hurt like in the match with Suzuka," Yuri concluded.
Kiyoko looked at her in surprise, but it faded. She was used to Yuri's ability to sense how others feel.
"Yes," she said, "but, I don't want that to hold me back. It's just, well, I don't know who I'll be fighting next. What if it's another star Deus?"
Tamiko turned to her friend.
"Is that what you're worried about?" she asked, then continued without waiting for a reply, "I really doubt that they'd put you up against another star Deus so soon, Kiyoko. Maybe in the Kanto Prelims, but not in the Tokyo Prelims. Trust me, I've been there."
As the group approached the sheltered bridge, Takumi turned to Junko, who'd been pretty silent.
"What's your opinion, Junko?" he asked, "what do you think about this situation?"
Junko looked up at everyone, a bit thoughtful.
"Well, like I was telling Tamiko and Kiyoko in 3rd period," she began, "Kara and I really just play for fun. Angelic Layer is basically a game. The goal is to have fun."
Everyone smiled at the wise words while Ken just looked confused.
"I thought the goal was to fight and become the strongest," he said.
The girls stared at him while Takumi gave him a 'look'.
"Ken, the fights are a part of the game," he explained, "it's like a video game, for example. In order to advance further into the game, you need to fight. It's not about beating the opponent up just for fun, it's a game of skill and teamwork."
Ken was a bit taken aback at Takumi's words, but sighed.
"Sorry," he said, bowing his head.
Everyone smiled. Then, Ken straightened up with a wide grin.
"But it still doesn't hurt to root for the strongest," he added.
Takumi rolled his eyes in exasperation while girls simply started laughing. There was no getting anywhere with Ken.
"Well, I doubt I'll get farther than the Tokyo Prelims," Junko said, after the laughter had subsided, "I already lost once."
Kiyoko turned to her.
"No way," she objected, "you'll ace through all of your matches and get to the Kanto Prelims. Just have confidence."
Junko smiled at Kiyoko. Tamiko, on the other hand, cocked her head to one side.
"Now where have I heard that before?" she asked.
Kiyoko gave her friend a look as Junko chuckled.
"But, seriously," Kiyoko said, turning back to Junko, "I just 'know' you can make it."
The shy girl smiled up at Kiyoko.
"Arigatou," she said.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
As Kiyoko and her friends approached the Stadium, they had no idea they were being watched by a pair of glowering gray eyes. They were fixed on the small brunette who was amongst a group of other kids. Two of the girls she recognized as Deus', she didn't know the other three. The eyes watched as the friends stopped in front of the Stadium and talked a bit before everyone but the brunette went inside. She watched as the girl fished around in her school bag and brought out an Angel, a boy Angel dressed in purple and black. She watched as the girl placed the Angel on her right shoulder as she looked for something else in her bag.
That was when the eyes moved.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Kiyoko and her friends had arrived at the Stadium with a few minutes to spare, but there was no sign of Kiyoko's Moms' van. Kiyoko had decided to wait outside for her mother to arrive. As her friends went in, Kiyoko took Raishinshi out of her school bag, and began to search for her Angel Card. Just then, someone bumped into her, hard, causing her to stumble to the right. She felt something slide off her shoulder and her eyes grew wide.
"Raishinshi!" she cried, whirling around.........and was face-to-face with a tall girl with spiky blond hair and ice blue eyes.
Kiyoko blinked. She knew this lady. That's when she noticed the girls' extended hand and the boy Angel laying in it.
"Raishinshi! Thank goodness!" Kiyoko cried, relieved, and took her Angel. She then looked up at the older girl. "Thank you so much for saving Raishinshi."
The blond tomboy smiled and gave a small nod. It was then that Kiyoko noticed the equally tomboy-ish Angel sitting on the girls' shoulder. It was Vasquez.
"Oh, you're, uh, Yamamo Toho, right?" she asked, politely.
The older girl nodded again.
"Yep," she replied, "and you're that new 'Wonder Rookie' everybody is talking about. The newbie Deus that beat Light-Speed Suzuka."
Kiyoko blushed a bit.
"Oh, I'm that popular now, huh?" she asked, shyly.
Toho shrugged.
"Not everybody can beat her," she stated, "in fact, you're one of the four Deus' who managed to win against her. You've gotten off to a pretty good start kiddo."
Kiyoko blushed a bit more. Getting complements from someone older was not something she was used to. Toho began to walk towards the Stadium.
"Hope you make it to the Kanto Prelims," she called back, "who knows, maybe we'll run into one another."
Kiyoko turned and watched her go inside the Stadium. She smiled a bit.
(She doesn't seem as bad as all the kids at school say she is,) Kiyoko thought.
"I'M WIGGLY ICCHAN!"
Kiyoko jumped and whirled around to see Icchan, arms in a waving motion, standing behind her.
"Mr. Icchan! Uh, where did you come from?" Kiyoko managed to say, still not used to her friends' pop-up trick.
Icchan stopped waving his arms and smiled.
"That's a secret," he said, adjusting his glasses, "you seem to be getting along well with other Deus' I see."
Knowing that he was talking about Toho, Kiyoko nodded.
"Yeah, it's funny though," she said, "a lot of kids say that she's mean, but she didn't act like it. She even saved Raishinshi."
Icchan gave her a knowing smile and rubbed his chin.
"Did you know that her real name is Yamamo Tomoko?" he asked.
Kiyoko blinked and stared up at him. Icchan nodded.
"Yep, Toho's her nickname," he explained, "she started using it around the time of the 5th Tournament. She practically declared it right there in her Angel Chair."
Kiyoko gave him a confused look.
"Tomoko sounds like a nice name," she said, honestly, "why hide it?"
Icchan shrugged, then looked down at her.
"By the way, I came here to tell you something about your next match," he said, getting serious.
Kiyoko instantly looked up at him when he mentioned her next match.
"You'll be going against someone you know," Icchan continued, "I'm not sure who it is. But I do know this: you can't hold back."
Kiyoko was stunned. Someone she knew? Her eyes widened.
(It can't be Tamiko-chan!) she thought in horror, (it just can't!)
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
After waiting a couple more minutes, Kiyoko's family arrived. Before Kiyoko could introduce Icchan, she realized that he was gone. She had gone inside after that and had been given the number E-4, but she was too busy thinking about what Icchan had said to her. She was so busy thinking, she didn't notice as the first match began.
('Someone I know'? It can't be Tamiko, no way,) Kiyoko kept thinking to herself, (she said that Deus' don't have to fight star Deus' twice in the Tokyo Prelims.) Then she remembered.........(Oh, that's right, she's a regular, not a star. But still! Oh man, how can I fight my best friend? After all the encouragement she gave me.)
Cheers from the TV in the waiting room caused her to look up. Her eyes widened at who she saw fighting. An Angel covered completely in black and indigo was fighting an Angel on ice-skates.
(Higure and Katalina,) Kiyoko thought, surprised, (I didn't know they were fighting.)
Now that she thought about it, Kiyoko didn't get a chance to look at the roster. She was too busy thinking about Icchans' last words. Now she watched the match before her, curiosity taking over.
Katalina was spinning in place with one leg extended, the position of her famous 'Spin Kick'. She was currently skating in place while Higure was standing half a foot away, watching the skating Angel with bored violet eyes. The same violet eyes that stared at Raishinshi when he was beaten. The screen zoomed in on the Box Screen. Both Angels had full health and the timer was only at 9 min. It then zoomed in on the Deus'. Katalina's Deus, Yuuko, was smiling at Higure while across from her, Saburo sported his usual cool demeanor. Kiyoko furrowed her brow.
(How can he be so calm?) she thought, (his Angel can't approach Katalina.)
Back on the Layer, Katalina spun forward, smiling. Higure didn't move an inch. As Katalina reached him, she swung her leg towards the dark Angels' face. Without warning, Higure's right leg came up, and wrapped around the ice-skating Angels' leg. With a twist of his body, Higure caused himself and Katalina to fall with a thud on the Layer, stomach first, but Higure rebounded with his hands. He landed, spun around, and kicked Katalina hard in the stomach. She quietly gasped in pain as she flew into the air. Yuuko gasped as she watched her Angel go flying. Saburo, on the other hand, simply smiled.
In the time it takes one to blink, Higure leapt into the air after Katalina. Once he was close enough to her, he gave her a midair left side kick that hit her right in the stomach. Katalina cried out again as she sailed towards the edge of the Layer, slid through the force field, and landed in her shocked Deus' lap. Higure landed just as the buzzer sounded. Nobody spoke for three seconds.
"Higure, Win!"
The crowd cheered as Saburo removed his Angel Goggles and stood up.
"Another stunning performance by the 'Speed King'!" the announcer complemented, "he's won all his matches so far in only none to one minute matches! Can he be any better?!"
Saburo smirked at the complement as he took Higure from the Layer and headed back to the Layer area's exit. Back in the East waiting room, Kiyoko stared in shock.
(My gosh! That was harsh,) she thought, holding Raishinshi close to her, (I hope he's not the 'someone I know' that Icchan was talking about.)
She shuddered at the thought of facing him again this soon.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Back in the Stadium, up on the balcony, five of the seven girls who watched the Angel fights were present. They watched as the second match began, but for some of them, their minds were elsewhere.
"Which match does Yume Kiyoko have?" Jounouchi Sai asked, flatly.
A girl with glasses who stood besides her, answered.
"Her match is the fourth one," Saito Kaede said.
A girl next to her, with two golden ponytails, turned her with excited blue eyes.
"Does that mean Kiyoko-chan will be fighting soon?" Seto Ringo asked.
Kaede smiled at her and nodded, causing Ringo to hop up and down with excitement. A couple of girls a ways away heard and the taller of the two turned to everyone.
"Do you think Raishinshi will do alright in this match?" Fujisaki Madoka asked.
"I don't see why not," Kaede replied.
The smaller girl looked around before looking up at the taller girl.
"Where's Misaki and Hatoko?" Fujisaki Arisu asked, curiously.
Sai looked towards the audience.
"They said something about meeting up with some friends," she said, scanning the crowd, "feels almost incomplete without the Champion and the 'Invincible Venus' up here, eh?"
Kaede giggled.
"Misaki-chan said that she met Kiyoko-san yesterday," she stated, "maybe she and Hatoko-chan went to cheer her on."
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
"Eeeeee! Where 'is' everyone?!" Kizaki Tamayo wailed as she searched the stands.
A girl next to her looked around in confusion.
"I hope we're not too late to meet Kiyoko," Suzuhara Misaki said.
"I told you we should of gotten here sooner Tamayo," Kobayashi Kotaro stated from behind the girls.
Tamayo whirled on him and grabbed him in a headlock.
"Heyheyhey! I had work detail and it's YOU'RE fault, Kotaro-chan!" the dirty blond snapped.
The dark-haired boy was on the verge of choking in her grasp.
"I.........wasn't the.........one who.........got into.........a fight," he managed to gasp.
Tamayo didn't stop squeezing and Misaki was getting worried. That's when she felt someone tug on her sleeve.
"Misaki, look," Kobayashi Hatoko said, pointing in front of them.
Misaki turned and caught a glimpse of Mrs. Yume sitting a couple aisles in front. Misaki beamed.
"There they are!" she cried, turning to her friends, "Tamayo-chan! Kotaro- chan! I see them."
The dirty blond stopped her chokehold and allowed Kotaro to breath regularly again. In a couple of seconds, the foursome was at the aisle.
"Hello Mrs. Yume, minna," Misaki said, politely, bowing.
Mrs. Yume and the others turned to them. The older woman gave a wide smile.
"Oh, hello again Misaki," she greeted, cheerfully, "I didn't expect you were going to visit us."
Tamayo moved besides Misaki.
"We came here to cheer for Kikiyoko!" she stated, determined.
Kotaro rolled his eyes as Yuri looked over at them.
"Kiyoko and Tamiko already went to the waiting rooms," she informed them, "but you're welcome to sit and watch."
Misaki frowned as she and her friends sat beside Kiyoko's friends.
"I was hoping to wish her luck," she said, sadly.
Takumi gave her a smile.
"Don't worry, I'm sure she'll do fine," he assured her, "she's improved greatly in each match."
"I agree," Hatoko commented, "and again we're sorry for coming by so late."
Kotaro sat back in his seat.
"Well, we would've came sooner, but we had to wait for Tamayo to get out of work detail," he explained.
Takumi blinked.
"Work detail? Why was she in work detail?" he inquired.
Kotaro sighed.
"She started up a fight with another girl," he said.
Everyone stared at him when he said that.
"A fight?!" Ken gasped, "ya mean you actually hit someone?!"
Tamayo huffed, looking a bit disappointed.
"Nope, I just tackled her," she replied.
Everybody sweat-dropped.
"It would've gotten worse if Kotaro-chan hadn't called a teacher over," Misaki explained.
Tamayo suddenly leaned over and grabbed Kotaro in a headlock once more.
"And I wouldn't have been late if it weren't for you!" she snapped.
As Kotaro struggled, Yuri leaned over to her.
"Why exactly did you start up a fight?" she asked.
Tamayo turned to her.
"She put down Kikiyoko and Raishinshi," she stated.
Mrs. Yume turned to her in surprise.
"Put them down?" she repeated in surprise, "why?"
Tamayo shrugged as Kotaro managed to break away.
"I dunno," she stated, "she was some High School girl with gray eyes and she said that Kikiyoko'd lose before the Tokyo Prelims were over."
Takumi narrowed his eyes as the second match ended.
"Why would anyone say anything like that?" he wondered, ignoring the cheering crowd.
Before anyone could answer, the announcer spoke up.
"The third round is now starting! Hold on tight folks!" he cried, as the Angel girls held up a card that said 'Battle 3'.
In the Layer area, a girl with long black hair and silvery eyes came out of the East Corner door. She was carrying a purple-haired Angel dressed in blue.
"In the East Corner, Deus Shimata Maria and Angel Tsubaki!" the announcer announced.
Takumi's eyes widened as he saw the girl.
(Tamiko fought with her,) he said, (and she said something about-)
Just then, another girl came from the West Corner. With spiky blond hair and ice blue eyes, it could be only one person.
"And in the West Corner, commando Deus Yamamo Toho and her Angel, the 'Goddess of Destruction', Vasquez!" the announcer cried.
The crowd cheered loudly as both Deus' took their seats in their respective Angel Chairs and put on their Angel Goggles. The minute they turned them on-
"Entry Angel!"
The stats filled out on the Box Screen and the force field came to life. Both chairs were raised to Layer level so that both determined Deus' met eye to eye. Maria brought her Angel to her chest.
"My only partner, the World's Strongest, Tsubaki!" Maria cried and tossed her Angel towards the Layer, "Angel, fall-in!"
Tsubaki slid through the force field and opened her blue eyes. She did four flips in the air, and landed on her knees. She stood up, and waited for the match to begin.
Toho took Vasquez from her shoulder and held her out to the opponent as if she were showing her something.
"Resistance is futile," she said, then drew the hand that held her Angel back, "Annihilate her, Vasquez!" She threw her Angel at the Layer full force. "Angel, Fall in!"
Vasquez shot towards the Layer like a bullet. She slid through the force field and her ice blue eyes opened wide. The golden glow hardly had time to show as she flexed her arms and legs and landed square on the Layer, flexing her muscles again to show off. Both Angels narrowed their eyes at one another.
"Angelic Fight!"
At the sound of the buzzer, Tsubaki leapt into the air. She did a couple of front flips to get to Vasquez and aimed a drop kick at her face. But the tomboy Angel was ready and brought her arms up horizontally in front of her face. Tsubaki's foot hit her arms, only giving Vasquez five damage points. The blue Angel bounced off, landed on the Layer, and charged again. As she approached Vasquez, she crouched down in front of her, and leapt forward into a low kick. She was heading right for the tomboy Angels' stomach.
But Toho was ready. She had Vasquez grab the oncoming foot and had her spin around, and fling Tsubaki across the Layer. She landed hard on the Layer, losing five points herself.
"What an amazing start ladies and gentlemen!" the announcer told the cheering fans, "I can't wait to see where this fight goes!"
Tsubaki got up and faced Vasquez, who was currently charging her. Tsubaki quickly ducked and dodged the punches that came her way and, when she saw an opening, threw a fierce right jab at her opponents' face. But Vasquez effortlessly caught the punch before it reached her face. In one swift move, she right side kicked Tsubaki right in the stomach. Tsubaki let out a silent moan as she flew back a couple feet. Her Damage Gauge dropped to 80%. Tsubaki managed to get to her feet just as Vasquez moved in and delivered a fierce right spin kick that knocked Tsubaki another foot away, almost getting her a Layer Out.
"Ouch! That had to hurt!" the announcer cried, "things aren't looking good for Tsubaki!"
Maria winced as she checked her Angels' damage and willed her Angel to stand. The purple-haired Angel stood up and glared at the pink-haired Angel, who was smiling at her. Tsubaki charged again and leapt forward, executing a midair left roundhouse. Vasquez quickly her left arm to block, though she still took damage, and so did Tsubaki. Back in the stands, Mrs. Yume noticed that, and frowned.
"How come that blue Angel got hurt? She didn't get hit," she stated.
Kotaro watched as Tsubaki landed and Vasquez jumped back a ways.
"Well, if an Angel strikes too hard or lands hard on the Layer, that Angel attains damage too," he explained, "it's sort of like a recoil."
Ken scratched his head.
"That hasn't happened to Raishinshi," he pointed out.
Hatoko looked thoughtful.
"That's because Kiyoko is guiding Raishinshi correctly," she said, "she struck carefully and used pretty well made strategies."
"Or she's just lucky," Aya muttered under her breath.
Hatoko heard her, but didn't reply.
Back on the Layer, Tsubaki leapt up again, right over Vasquez's head. She began to spin around in midair, looking like a drill. Vasquez crouched and jumped up, punching Tsubaki right in the stomach in mid-spin, shocking Maria. Tsubaki let out a silent gasp as she fell to the Layer. Before she could even get up, Vasquez landed, her knees impacting with Tsubaki's stomach. The blue Angel grit her teeth as her Damage sank to 40%. Misaki winced. Yuri noticed.
"Are Maria and Tsubaki friends of yours?" she asked.
Misaki nodded.
"Yes, they are," she replied, "Maria-chan's really good at Angelic Layer, but Yamamo-san has been playing longer. She's really strong."
Takumi frowned as Tsubaki got up on the Layer.
"She's a Stamina type, a Heavyweight by the looks of her," he deduced, "Tsubaki is a Speed, Lightweight. Maria is outmatched."
Tsubaki charged at Vasquez again, right arm arched back for an all or nothing punch. Vasquez also charged with her right arm drawn back. As both approached, both Angels punched forward, crossing each other in mid-dash. Both stopped a foot away from one another, standing with an arm extended. A few seconds past with everyone waiting. Finally, Vasquez straightened out, and Tsubaki collapsed. The purple-haired Angels Gauge dropped to 0 and the timer stopped at 7 min. with Vasquez only at 85% health.
"Vasquez, Win!" the announcer declared.
The crowd cheered as Maria took off her Angel Goggles, and stared at her defeated Angel, sadly. Toho took off her Goggles as well, smiling. Back up on the balcony, Sai shook her head at the match.
"It figures," she commented, "Yamamo never goes easy in her fights."
Back in the stands, Mrs. Yume frowned.
"She was so rough fighting against that blue Angel," she murmured, "I thought this was just a game."
"Some people are like Ken," Takumi explained, "they like competing just to win for glory."
Yuri frowned.
"Those are the Deus' that don't believe in their Angels," she added, "and to think Kiyoko nearly became one of them."
Tamayo turned to her.
"Speaking of Kikiyoko," she said, "doesn't she fight next?"
Hearing that, everyone grew nervous. Unlike Kiyoko, they'd seen the roster, and didn't like what they had read.
"Well, she.........does," Takumi said, slowly.
Misaki leaned forward in her seat.
"Who does she have to fight?" she asked.
The others looked at one another and Takumi turned to tell her.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Kiyoko watched Toho leave the Layer area from the TV in the East Waiting Room.
(She fights so hard,) she thought, (why does she fight that way?)
Kiyoko wished that Tamiko was with her, but the blond girl was transferred to the West Corner, something that didn't help Kiyoko's train of thought one bit. It only fueled what Icchan had told her more. She stared down at Raishinshi. He was sleeping in her hands. Kiyoko sighed and held him up.
(I don't want to fight a friend,) she said, (it'd be too painful for me. What if I-)
"E-4, Ms. Yume Kiyoko?"
Looking up from her thoughts, Kiyoko turned to see a lady in uniform.
"Here," she replied, softly.
The lady turned to her and motioned to the hallway.
"You're next," she said.
Kiyoko merely nodded and headed down the pink hallway. She kept thinking about what Icchan had said, not really paying much attention to where she was going.
BUMP!
Kiyoko walked right into someone, grabbing hold of Raishinshi to keep him from falling. She looked up.
"G-gomen nasaii! I didn't mean to-" then she saw who it was.
Yukiwa Saburo stood staring at her, navy eyes narrowed.
"I'm glad you're not this clumsy on the Layer," he remarked.
Kiyoko turned red and looked away.
"I-I didn't see you," she said, meekly.
Saburo shrugged.
"Whatever," he said, eying her, "did you see who you have to fight?"
Kiyoko shook her head.
"No, not really," she admitted, "but I heard it's somebody I know. I think it might be one of my friends."
The two of them stood in front of each other for a second before Saburo began to walk past her. However, he hesitated a step behind her.
"If you want to get any farther," he began, "I suggest you don't hold back."
Kiyoko said nothing as he continued his way down the hall. Feeling more troubled now than before, the brunette headed for the Stadium.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
"The fourth battle is HERE, Layer fans!" the announcer cried to the cheering crowd.
Kiyoko's party was sitting silently among the roaring crowd, waiting for the Deus' to enter. The girls in the balcony stared expectantly down at the Layer area. Back in the Computer Room, Icchan was sitting in his normal seat, watching the Stadium from the visual screen. From the East corner, a small figure emerged with a purple Angel sitting on her forearm. Kiyoko looked around at the cheering crowd.
"In the East Corner, Deus Yume Kiyoko and Angel Raishinshi!" the announcer called out.
The crowd cheered louder as Kiyoko approached the East Angel Chair. She stared over at the West corner entrance, waiting to see Tamiko. From it, however, came a girl with light brown hair and an Angel who was dressed in a pink and blue ballerina outfit.
"And in the West Corner, Deus Kikaru Junko and Angel Kara!" the announcer concluded.
Kiyoko's eyes widened.
(WHAT??!) she thought in shock, (Junko-chan is my opponent??!)
The crowd cheered as the announcer continued to speak.
"Yume and her Angel have won six battles so far, most being strong opponents!" he said, "this includes, Kobayashi's 'Light-Speed Suzuka'! But Kikaru and Kara have fought their way this far with no signs of quitting, can Yume beat the 'Layer Ballerina'?!"
Kiyoko stared at Junko in surprise as Junko approached her.
"I hope we have a good match, Kiyoko," she said, looking at the ballet Angel that sat plainly on her forearm.
Kiyoko couldn't find her voice and merely nodded. Both Deus' went to their Angel Chairs and sat down. In the West waiting room, Tamiko watched the screen in a disturbed expression. She held Youzen close to her.
(I don't know who to cheer for,) she thought, (they're both my friends. I don't want either to lose.)
As the two 12 year-olds slipped on their Angel Goggles, Kiyoko stared again at Junko.
(I have to fight Junko?) she thought, turning her Goggles on.
"Entry Angel!"
The stats entered the Box Screen and the force field appeared. Both chairs were raised up to Layer level and once again both girls were looking at one another. Kiyoko stared at Junko, her mind cluttered with so many things. Why, out of all the Deus' here, did she have to fight her friend?
(I.........I can't.........) she thought, slowly, (I-)
"Kiyoko-chan?"
Kiyoko snapped out of thought and realized that Junko was looking in her direction.
"Huh?" Kiyoko said.
The slender girl held Kara in both hands now.
"Which one of us should go first?" she asked.
Kiyoko blinked and looked at the Layer.
"Y-you can go first, Junko-chan," she said, softly.
Junko nodded and held Kara out in front of her.
"Dance for everyone on the Layer, Kara!" she cried, smiling, then brought her Angel down a bit, "Show everybody that you're a star!" She then flung Kara forward.
The cerulean-haired Angel flew through the Layers' force field, surrounded by a radiant glow. Kara's blue eyes opened and she did a vertical twist in the air, scattering the glow, her pigtails swirling around her.
"Angel, Fall in!" Junko concluded.
Kara straightened out of her spin and landed on her pointed toes. She did a little twirl before stopping to face Kiyoko, smiling. Kiyoko stared at Kara for a while before looking down at Raishinshi. He was still sleeping on her arm. Knowing that she couldn't sit and stare forever, Kiyoko took her Angel from her forearm, closed her eyes, and held Raishinshi level to her face.
"Never give up!" she cried, then opened her eyes and raised Raishinshi over her head with both hands, "Justice is on our side!" She drew her right arm back, her right hand gripping her Angel. "Raishinshi!" she finished, throwing her Angel towards the Layer.
He sailed towards the force field, eyes closed, violet Angel Cords whipping around behind him. He slid through the force field, making it ripple, and was surrounded by a golden glow. His eyes opened wide and he spread his arms and legs, causing the golden glow to vanish.
"Angel, Fall in!" Kiyoko concluded.
He tucked his knees up to his chest and moved his outstretched arms behind him, fists clenched. He descended towards the Layer at a high speed. When he was only a foot away from the surface, he front flipped into a crouch. In one fluid movement, he straightened up, bent his knees, and raised his arms into a boxing position. However, due to his Deus' current thoughts, he didn't stare down Kara. Instead, his brown-red eyes held an uneasy look.
Back in the stands, Mrs. Yume looked on with an uneasy look herself.
"I don't know if Kiyoko can do this," she admitted.
Ken turned to her.
"But, I thought you said that we should believe in her," he stated.
Mrs. Yume grew more uneasy.
"This is different," she explained, "she's fighting a friend. She never likes to see her friends get hurt."
Aya gave her mother a sigh.
"It's not like she's fighting her directly," she huffed.
Takumi furrowed his brow.
"That may be," he said, "but Junko cares a lot about Kara and Kiyoko knows it." He sat back in his chair. "Kiyoko might not be able to fight."
Back in the Layer area, Kiyoko was nervous. She stared at Junko and her Angel. Both looked ready. But Kiyoko was still troubled on the inside. She didn't want to fight a friend, but if she didn't-
"Now, Angelic Fight!" the announcer suddenly cried.
The buzzer sounded and Kiyoko gave a start.
Kara immediately made the first move. She rose on her toes, folded her arms in front of her, and started to twirl on her toes, heading right for Raishinshi. Kiyoko gasped. Raishinshi didn't have time to react as Kara quickly got within striking range and, as she spun around, delivered a right spin kick. The kick smacked the purple Angel in the left upper arm, causing him to topple over. He extended his right hand and stopped himself from falling. Without hesitation, Kara did a right forward kick, aiming to catch Raishinshi in the stomach. But Raishinshi quickly rolled away and stood up, facing Kara.
"Looks like Kara has gained the upper hand early in the match!" the announcer commented.
Kiyoko grit her teeth. She had lost her focus and let Kara get too close. She tried to keep her mind on the match, but she kept thinking about Junko.
(Why do I have to fight my friend?) she thought.
Kara came at Raishinshi again, running this time. Kiyoko came out of her thoughts just in time to see Kara reach Raishinshi. Since his Deus wasn't focusing fully on him, he just stood there, motionless. Kara gave him a swift punch across his face and delivered another to his stomach. It was only then that Kiyoko's focus fully resumed. Raishinshi leapt back a bit and put up a guard.
However, his Damage Gauge was already at 80%.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Ogata was watching the fight from his computer and frowned at the sight.
"He's not even countering," he commented, aloud, "is his Deus feeling alright?"
Icchan was frowning at the screen.
"The West Corner Deus is a friend of Kiyoko's," he explained, "she's hesitating in fighting her friends' Angel."
Ogata blinked.
"Huh? Hesitating?" he repeated, confused, "but, her Angel might lose if she does that."
Icchan frowned even more.
"That's what I'm worried about," he said.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Kara charged at Raishinshi again. The purple Angel got into a boxing stance and waited for the ballet Angel to approach. As Kara grew closer, she thrust out her right fist at Raishinshi's face. He quickly ducked and drew his right arm back, aiming for Kara's stomach. But, in an amazing feat of agility, Kara placed her hands on his shoulders, and lifted herself off the ground before Raishinshi could even execute the punch. The audience was fascinated at the sight. Kara was hand-standing on her opponents shoulders. Raishinshi looked up at her with surprised eyes as Kara simply smiled down at him. Then, Kara swung her legs down, bent her knees, and drove them into Raishinshi's stomach. Gritting his teeth, the boy Angel fell on his back as Kara jumped away.
Kiyoko swallowed hard at the sight and tried to stay focused.
(I gotta calm down,) she thought, (I have to focus.)
Raishinshi slowly got up, but not before receiving an extra five damage points.
"Oh my!" Mrs. Yume cried, seeing his damage shrink, "what happened?"
Kotaro moved up in his seat.
"If an Angel is hit too hard and tries to move too soon after the hit, its damaged spot becomes stressed," he explained, "and the Angel is damaged more."
Yuri frowned and focused her silvery eyes on Kiyoko.
(Kiyoko,) she thought, (you must focus.)
Back on the Layer, Raishinshi straightened out and stared at Kara. She was standing a foot away from him, waiting patiently in a ballet position. Kiyoko took a deep breath.
(Okay, we need to go in,) she thought.
Raishinshi broke out into a run, heading straight for Kara. The ballet Angel tensed as the purple Angel closed in. He drew back his right fist to strike when-
("Well, I doubt I'll get farther than the Tokyo Prelims," Junko had said, "I already lost once.")
Kiyoko's eyes widened and Raishinshi skidded to a halt right in front of Kara, his eyes blank.
"Huh?! What's going on?! Why has Angel Raishinshi stopped?!" the announcer cried.
Kara stared at Raishinshi with curious blue eyes. Junko looked in Kiyoko's direction. She noticed how stressed the brunette looked.
(What's wrong with Kiyoko?) she thought.
The timer was already at 7 min. and, up on the balcony, Arisu was staring down at Raishinshi.
"What is 'wrong' with that Angel?" she wondered, aloud, "he had a perfect chance to attack and he leaves himself wide open."
Kaede stared down at the two Angels.
"Maybe his Deus is just being cautious," she offered.
Arisu narrowed her green eyes.
"He hasn't even put up much of a fight," she stated, "and you call that cautious?"
The other three girls merely watched expectantly. Below them, in the doorway of one of the entrances, Saburo watched the fight, his expression sour.
"I can't believe she's doing this," he muttered, "you can't hold back in an Angel Fight just because you're fighting a friend."
But in this case, that was exactly what Kiyoko was doing. She knew how Junko felt about Kara, she was like another friend of sorts to her. Junko had told her, when she first moved to Tokyo, about how nobody wanted to be friends with her because she was rich, and everyone had assumed that she was a snob just because her sister was one. When Junko was introduced to Angelic Layer and made Kara, she instantly became attached to her and saw her as a friend, even after she met Kiyoko. Kiyoko felt the same way about Raishinshi: she felt that he was a part of her family now, she'd never want to hurt him.
(I-I don't want to hurt Kara,) Kiyoko thought, sadly, (what if I damage her badly? What if Junko-chan becomes sad? I don't want to hurt her feelings by hurting her Angel. But, if I don't attack-)
"Kiyoko-chan?"
Kiyoko looked up at the sound of her name and saw that it was Junko. She blinked in confusion as Junko gazed at her with gray-brown eyes.
"Why are you holding back?" she asked, calmly.
Kiyoko blinked again and gave a sound of confusion.
"I know you normally don't fight this way," Junko continued, "and I didn't understand it until now. Why don't you want to fight?"
Kiyoko couldn't find her voice. Junko was right; she didn't normally fight this way. She was usually always cautious in her attacks and movements, but now Raishinshi's movement was sloppy and hesitant. He hardly even came close to hitting Kara.
"I know you must not like fighting a friend and I know that you're probably afraid to hurt Kara," Junko said, "but you can't hold back, otherwise your own Angel will be hurt."
Kiyoko didn't speak. Junko was always serious when it came to Angelic Layer. But, this time she sounded............mad?
(Maybe I 'should' fight back,) Kiyoko thought.
("You'll ace through all of your matches and get to the Kanto Prelims. Just have confidence. I just 'know' you can make it," she had said, earlier in the day.)
(But, I gave Junko encouragement,) she thought, nervously, (how can Raishinshi and I turn around and attack her after trying to give her confidence?)
Kiyoko was confused. And Junko saw this.
(I'm sorry, Kiyoko-chan,) she thought with a frown.
Kara suddenly came to life again and spin kicked Raishinshi across the face, making him crash to the Layer.
"Raishinshi!" Kiyoko cried.
"Ouch! That one had to hurt!" the announcer declared over a cheering crowd, "Kara scores a hard spin kick!"
Raishinshi looked up at the ballet Angel with uncertainty.
"C'mon Kikiyoko!" Tamayo screamed from her seat, "you've gotta fight back!"
Hatoko watched, sadly.
"She's not concentrating," she said, "she's too busy thinking about Kara."
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Back in the Video Room, Icchan and Ogata were both watching the match, a bit worried.
"She isn't staying focused," Icchan said, "she and that girl must be close."
Ogata watched nervously as Raishinshi stood up.
"Raishinshi hasn't even touched Kara, but she's already knocked him down to 50 Damage points," he said, "I thought you said that she cares about her Angel."
Icchan narrowed his eyes.
"She does, but she's confused now," he explained, "she's the type of person who cares for everyone. She cares about her friend and her friends' Angel. That's a sign of a true Deus, but right now, Kiyoko is unsure of whether or not she should hurt Kara."
Ogata faced his Chief.
"She could at least have her Angel defend himself," he said, still not fully understanding the situation, "why let him take hits?"
Icchan said nothing as he continued to watch.
(I'm just glad that 'he's' not here to see this,) he thought.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Kiyoko watched Kara tensely as she advanced on Raishinshi, who was tensed as well.
(I don't want to get Raishinshi hurt anymore,) she thought, (I have to at least dodge.)
The pink and blue Angel suddenly leapt into the air, surprising Raishinshi. She aimed her left foot at Raishinshi's head and began to descend. Kiyoko's eyes widened. Clenching his teeth, Raishinshi jumped back, letting Kara's foot smash harmlessly onto the Layer.
(At least she's making him dodge,) Takumi thought, leaning forward in his seat.
Kara pointed her toes, folded her arms before her, and started to twirl towards Raishinshi again. Raishinshi put up a guard and waited as Kara got closer and closer. When in range, Kara did a forward right kick. Raishinshi quickly cupped his hands and pushed the foot away. Hatoko blinked in recognition.
(That was how Suzuka repelled a kick when she fought Raishinshi,) she thought.
Meanwhile, Kara started to throw punches at Raishinshi's face. He quickly moved out of the way off all of them and then ducked as Kara executed another spin kick. He jumped back a bit and put up a guard.
"For the first time in this match, Raishinshi has finally put up the defensive!" the announcer cried, "looks like Yume is finally ready for action!"
Back in the doorway, Saburo gave a grunt of distaste.
(Yeah, right,) he thought, tempted to turn and leave.
Back in the West waiting area, Tamiko was more than worried. She had been nervous ever since the first strike and couldn't stop feeling worried for both her friends' Angels. She hugged Youzen close to her as the fight continued. Back on the balcony, Sai watched the fight without an expression.
(Well,) she thought, (at least he'll avoid her attacks from now on.)
Junko looked at Raishinshi then at Kiyoko. The small girl was breathing hard and visibly nervous.
(Kiyoko,) Junko thought, sadly.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Back in the stands.........
"C'MON KIYOKO!" Ken cried, "YOU CAN'T RUN FOREVER!"
Takumi gave his friend a look and glanced at the timer. It was at 5 min. He bit his lip.
"Time's slowly running out," he murmured, "if Raishinshi keeps running, he'll lose."
Yuri stared worriedly at the Layer.
"After what happened before we came here, the chat we had together," she mused, "Kiyoko must feel like if she attacks, she's betraying her friend."
Misaki turned to her.
"But that's not true," she said, worried herself, "when I had to fight Hatoko for the first time, I was nervous too. But I fought because I didn't want Hikaru to get hurt. And even though Suzuka beat her, Hatoko was still my friend. I didn't hold it against her. Angelic Layer is a game to be played with friends."
Takumi sighed as he turned to face him.
"Kiyoko is one of the most compassionate kids I've known," he explained, "Junko-chan already lost a match and Kiyoko probably thinks that if she beats Kara, Junko will be upset." He looked back at the Layer. "Kiyoko's really close to her friends."
Misaki's group softened at hearing how their new friend truly felt. Hatoko turned back to the Layer.
(Kiyoko,) she thought, (I know it's hard for you to fight someone who's close to you, but Raishinshi'll be hurt if you don't focus. You must believe in him.)
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Kiyoko watched Kara and her Angel, tensely. She had been making Raishinshi dodge so far, but she knew that dodging wouldn't win the fight. She swallowed, hard. She couldn't stop thinking about her friends' feelings, but she was also thinking about her Angel.
(Raishinshi, what'll I do?) she thought, staring at him, (how can we fight Junko-chan? If she losses again, she won't be able to participate in the Tournament anymore.)
Junko looked across at her friend and frowned. Kara charged forward again, approaching in ballet-like strides. Kiyoko panicked as she watched her approach. She didn't know what to do! She shut her eyes and cringed, causing Raishinshi to sag a bit, as if he, too, was cringing.
"Kiyoko! You have to dodge!" Tamiko cried from her waiting room.
Back on the Layer, Kara was almost upon Raishinshi. Kiyoko was still cringing, eyes squeezed shut.
(I'm so sorry, Raishinshi,) she thought, sadly, (I'm sorry if I let you down.)
Then-
("I promise I'll give you my best from now on, Raishinshi," she had vowed the other day.)
Kiyoko's eyes flew open. Kara leapt forward, her left leg up for a flying kick, aimed right for Raishinshi's stomach. Raishinshi's head shot up. He reached forward and grabbed Kara's left ankle just before her foot reached its target. Spinning around, he flung the ballet Angel across the Layer. She landed with a small thud and rolled a bit before stopping. Junko blinked.
"Woah! And Raishinshi manages to deflect Kara's kick!" the announcer shouted, "looks like he's ready to fight!"
Raishinshi turned to Kara. His eyes no longer held uneasiness, but certainty. Kiyoko swallowed again as she looked at him.
(I promised Raishinshi I wouldn't let him down and that we'd fight our hardest,) she thought, (I can't just let him get hurt like this.)
Kara slowly got up and turned to face Raishinshi with a determined expression. She got onto her toes and started to twirl again towards Raishinshi. The purple Angel tensed as the ballet Angel drew closer. Raishinshi then charged at Kara and drew back his fist. But as soon as he punched, Kara spun to her right, avoiding the punch. Raishinshi turned and punched out again. This time, Kara hopped backwards to avoid the punch, then she advanced again. Raishinshi jumped back to avoid her spin kick and ran forward, aiming a high right kick for his opponents face. But Kara simply spun around him, avoiding the kick.
"Looks like Kara is living up to her name as the 'Layer Ballerina'!" the announcer told the cheering crowd, "hardly any Angel is able to land a blow on her, not with those twirls she does! Looks like Raishinshi's hit another dilemma!"
Kiyoko grit her teeth. Raishinshi did the same and charged at Kara again. He threw a right and left hook back-to-back, but Kara merely twirled backwards to avoid them. Raishinshi executed a spin kick to her face, but the ballet Angel simply front-flipped over his head. Raishinshi turned, looking a bit uncertain again.
(Even when I attack, I can hardly hit her,) Kiyoko thought, (maybe I shouldn't fight her. Maybe, if I keep dodging-)
("You'd think they'd go easy on you, you're just a beginner," Ken had pointed out one day.
"That would be fighting half-heartedly," Takumi had replied, "that's not the proper way to play Angelic Layer.")
Kiyoko's eyes widened again.
(No, I can't hold back, I have to attack or Raishinshi'll just be hurt more,) she thought, a blockade that had been in front of her slowly evaporating away, (I don't want him to be hurt. I don't!)
Hatoko noticed, from the visual on the Box Screen, that Kiyoko was slowly appearing more calm.
(She's slowly realizing what she's doing wrong,) she thought, (but she has to unlock one more thing.)
Back on the Layer, Kara was advancing again, running this time. Raishinshi got into a stance as his opponent approached. He leapt forward and kicked forward with his right leg. Kara, as expected, spun away and to her left..........which was Raishinshi's right. He quickly brought his right leg down besides him, spun around backwards, and brought his left leg around in a reverse spin kick. His heel struck Kara in the stomach, causing her to cry out silently, and fall to the Layer.
"Kara!" Junko cried, seeing her Angel fall.
The announcer stared.
"W-Wow!" he cried, "he hit her! Newbie Yume Kiyoko managed to finally land a blow on the 'Layer Ballerina!"
The audience cheered.
"ALRIGHT, KIKIYOKO!" Tamayo cheered, "KNOCK'ER FLAT!!"
Kotaro sweat-dropped as Kiyoko's friends clapped at her small victory.
"That's it Kiyoko!" Tamiko cheered.
In the corner of the West waiting room, in the doorway to be more precise, Toho stood watching the match between the two friends.
(Finally landed one,) she thought.
Back in the Layer area, Kiyoko was watching her Angel intently. The timer was at 3 min. and Kara had been knocked to 85%. She still had nagging worries in her mind that still got in her way.
(Is she mad at me?) she thought, (I hit Kara pretty hard. I hope she isn't mad.)
Raishinshi got into a fighting position as Kara advanced again.
("I'm gonna become a star Deus too!" she had cried, "I'm going to win all my matches, just like you Daddy! I promise!")
Kiyoko blinked as she remembered the promise that had allowed her to fight through many matches. Raishinshi started to run towards Kara as well, going a bit faster than normal. Junko was surprised at his speed, as was Kara. The boy Angel leapt at Kara, who back-flipped away just as Raishinshi's right foot came down on the place she was just standing. But Raishinshi pushed off again as he landed, lunging for Kara, who had just come out of her flip, and turned to her opponent. Another thought entered Kiyoko's mind at that time.
("Kara and I really just play for fun. Angelic Layer is basically a game. The goal is to have fun," Junko had said as they had walked to the Stadium together.)
Kara quickly leaned back with her right leg, arms out to her sides, and kicked her right leg forward in a ballet-styled kick, like the move she had used yesterday. Raishinshi narrowed his eyes and landed his right foot on the Layer, brought his left leg up, and wrapped around the blue and pink Angels' leg. With a twist of his body, Raishinshi caused himself and Kara to fall with a thud on the Layer, stomach first. Junko gasped.
"Wait-a-go, Kiyoko!" Ken cheered.
Takumi watched in surprise.
"Higure used that move in the first match," he stated.
Yuri nodded.
"Yes, and that move she used earlier was from the match with Vasquez," she added, "Kiyoko is an excellent mimic."
Back on the Layer, both Angels slowly got to their feet. Kara turned to Raishinshi with a steady expression. And Raishinshi turned to her and Junko, and pretty much all of Kiyoko's friends, were surprised to see that he was smiling a kind smile. His eyes were clear and bright again, just like his Deus'.
"I'm sorry Junko-chan."
Junko looked up at Kiyoko. She was surprised to see that her friend was smiling, cheerfully, just like her Angel. Her eyes were no longer troubled behind her Goggles, they were clear and bright as well.
"I'm sorry that I fought half-heartedly," Kiyoko continued, "I was worried that you would hate me for hurting Kara. But, then I remembered what you said to me and the others earlier. Angelic Layer is a game and the object is to have fun with your Angel. I'm.........I'm not going to hold back anymore. I want to have fun with you, and Raishinshi, and Kara. I love Angelic Layer and I want to do my best playing it."
Hatoko smiled. Kiyoko now understood. A ways away, Saburo raised an eyebrow. Back in the Layer area, Junko said nothing for a minute, but then smiled.
"Thank you for being honest with me, Kiyoko-chan," she said, "I'm sorry if I fought you too hard. I was mad because I thought you were going easy on me, but now I see that you were only worried. I want to have fun too. Angelic Layer 'is' a wonderful game that you should play with your friends. I hope we can have a good game."
Both friends smiled at one another. Up in the balcony, Sai gave a rare smile.
(Now the match will really start,) she thought.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Icchan smiled at what he saw on the visual screen. Ogata, however, was confused.
"How come she's fighting better than before?" he asked to himself, more than to anyone else.
"She's got her faith back."
Both Icchan and Ogata turned to see a dark-haired boy with navy eyes staring at them and then looked up at the visual screen.
"She's finally realized the true meaning of Angelic Layer," Mihara Oujiro said, smiling, "how, I don't know, but she's now ready to begin the match for real this time."
Normally, Icchan would snap at his little brother for sneaking up on him, but his words were true, and he simply smiled at his brother.
"You're right there, she 'has' discovered the meaning, no doubt with help of her friend," he said, turning back to the visual screen, "we ought to see Kiyoko and Raishinshi's true abilities now."
Ogata looked doubtful as he glanced at the timer.
"But," he objected, "the timer is almost at 1 min. How's she gonna make a comeback?"
Icchan grinned at over at his assistant.
"Oh ye of little faith, Ogata," he joked, "just watch and you'll see the spirit of a true Deus."
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Back on the Layer, Raishinshi and Kara were facing each other, smiling in tandem with their Deus'. Everyone was waiting for what they guessed would be the final attack. As soon as the timer hit 1 min., both Angels took off running at one another.
(I'm sorry I held you back Raishinshi,) Kiyoko apologized, watching her Angel run on the Layer, (I won't anymore. I want to fight with you so we can play Angelic Layer. So we can shine together on the Layer!)
(Kara, I'm so glad Kiyoko is back at full spirits,) Junko thought, smiling, (I just know that they'll make it to the Kanto Prelims. And we'll cheer for them the whole way!)
As soon as they were both close enough, Kara executed a high right kick aimed for Raishinshi's head. But Raishinshi leaned backwards, allowing the kick to whiz overhead. And he continued to lean backwards until he placed both hands flat on the Layer under him.
"Huh?" Junko said, confused at the action.
Kara stared in confusion as Raishinshi lifted his legs up into the air into a handstand. He looked up at Kara, giving her a smile, before-
Crack!
Raishinshi swept his legs between his arms and kicked out with his right leg. His foot smashed into Kara as Raishinshi completed his backflip, a trail of white-purple light followed his foot as he landed. Kara, on the other hand, cried out silently as she flew up into the air. Junko gasped. Kara sailed towards the force field and exited the Layer. She landed on the ground with a loud click. The buzzer sounded and the timer stopped at 40 seconds...............and the crowd went wild.
"WOAH!! That was Light-Speed Suzuka's special attack, the 'Rolling Thunder'!" the announcer shouted, "very few beginners can pull THAT move off! Newbie Angel Raishinshi has defeated the 'Layer Ballerina' in one swift move!"
Raishinshi's picture flashed across the screen. Mrs. Yume was the most ecstatic of Kiyoko's group while Ken and Tamayo were the loudest.
"YES! SHE DID IT!" Ken whooped.
"KIKIYOKO KICKED BUTT!!" Tamayo cheered, punching the air with her fist.
Misaki, Kotaro, Takumi, and Yuri all clapped their hardest at Kiyoko's victory. Aya stared in surprise at the Layer. Hatoko turned to her.
"There's no such thing as luck in Angelic Layer," she said, "it all comes down to faith."
Up on the balcony, Ringo was whooping as loud as she could while Arisu stared down at Raishinshi in disbelief.
"I can't believe he actually won," she muttered.
Sai gave a small laugh.
"It's never wise to underestimate an Angel," she said, remembering her fight with Hikaru.
As Junko got down from her Angel Chair as it went to ground level, Kiyoko ran up, both Raishinshi and Kara in her hands. She held Kara out to Junko.
"I don't know if she's hurt badly or not," she said, "I'm sorry if I damaged her badly, Junko-chan."
Junko looked at Kiyoko and took Kara into her hands. She looked down at Kara, but then looked up at Kiyoko with a smile.
"It's okay, Kiyoko-chan," she assured, "I had fun. The important thing in Angelic Layer is to have fun."
Kiyoko smiled, shyly, and nodded.
Back in the West waiting room, Tamiko smiled at the TV as it showed Kiyoko and Junko hugging each other in a friendship hug. She looked down at Youzen and hugged him herself. In the doorway, Toho cracked a smile.
"Not bad," she whispered, "not bad at all."
*Uh.........konya mo mata.........*
Saburo watched the two girls part for their waiting rooms.
*........hakanai hoshi zora*
"Looks like you came through after all, newbie," he stated.
*Uh.........hikaru hoshi ni..........*
As Kiyoko headed down the pink hallway, she smiled down at Raishinshi. He was still smiling, happily.
*........negai o kakeru kara*
"Thank you for hanging in there, Raishinshi," she said, gently hugging her brave Angel.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Whew! Took me a while to figure out the fight scene for this fic. I'm not too good at writing internal conflicts (sounds ironic in my case). I got inspired by watching episode 9 with Tsubaki and Maria. I hope you like it, tell me if I screwed something up. Next time, someone is out for revenge, but who? Stay tuned and you'll see. Please R&R, no flames!
Disclaimer
*A pile of papers and textbooks is in view. The pile shakes for a few seconds before exploding outwards to reveal DayDreamer9*
GAH!! GOMEN NASAII!! I'm SO sorry for not updating. I've not only been busy doing FCAT, but I've been swamped with homework for two weeks. So sorry. Anyway, in this chapter, Kiyoko has to fight a friend, but who? And can she bring herself to fight? The reason for Yamamo-san's name change, appearance corrections for Maria and Tsubaki, and another special appearance from Oujiro-san at the end are included. I also need to know whether or not Shuuko still uses her wheelchair (I've heard rumors that she was cured or something). I also wanna give some special thanks to my reviewers:
Emily*Arcanister: Thanks for giving me my first encouraging review.
Sana Jisushi: Thanks Jisu-chan! Thanks for your support. Keep writing good chappies :)
Admiral Fern: Thanks for the tips and info you gave me. I owe a lot to you.
Little Rabbit f/LRPLI: Thankies for your support.
tjal: Thanks for your insight, it helped me a lot.
crystal-flame123: Thanks for supporting my chappies.
Kazumi Kairi or Kairi-chan: Don't worry. I'll put in some romance soon.
Enigma-Nemesis: Arigatou gozaimasu! Your review helped me think hard for this chappie.
And to all you other reviewers of mine: THANKIES :)
I don't own Angelic Layer or any of the OC's. I 'do', however, own Kiyoko Yume, Angel Raishinshi, Kiyoko's family and friends, Saburo, Higure, Tamiko, Youzen, Junko, and Kara. Now, on with the fic! I hope you like it!
Battle 14: "Junko-chan Is My Opponent?! Kiyoko's Nervous Decision!"
It was early morning in the Yume household and Aya was already downstairs, eating her breakfast. Mrs. Yume was busy in the kitchen, preparing coffee for herself. She glanced at the clock on the kitchen wall.
"I hope Kiyoko is awake," she mumbled, "or she's going to be late for school."
"Again," Aya added from the table.
Mrs. Yume turned to her eldest daughter.
"It's not her fault she's a heavy sleeper," she informed, then smiled, "you used to be just like that when you were her age. Only difference was that I had to go up and wake you."
Aya rolled her eyes and stuffed some egg in her mouth.
"At least 'I' grew out of it, unlike some people who stay up half the night talking to their 'doll'," she grumbled, swallowing her egg.
"Morning!"
Both turned to see Kiyoko, in her uniform, trot into the Dining Room with Raishinshi on her shoulder.
"Good morning Kiyoko," Mrs. Yume replied, picking up the coffee pot, "sleep well?"
Kiyoko plopped into her seat and placed Raishinshi on the table edge besides her.
"Yep," she said, "we slept great. We're all ready for today."
Aya stared at her.
"She was talking about 'you', not your 'doll'," she commented, earning herself a glare from her little sister.
Mrs. Yume shook her head as Kiyoko began on her egg.
"Even dolls have to sleep, Aya," she said, sitting down at the table, "especially with their match today. Who're you going to be fighting today, Kiyoko?"
The 12 year-old brunette shrugged as she swallowed her egg.
"I dunno," she said, "we won't know until we check the roster."
Aya sighed as her mother and sister continued to chat about Angelic Layer.
(All this over a bunch of dolls,) she thought.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Kiyoko 'was' late again for school and Ken spent half of 1st period teasing her about it. By the time 3rd came around, though, it was all forgotten. They were too busy making dumplings together for today's assignment in 'Home Economics'. Lucky for Kiyoko and Tamiko, Junko was on their team. She was the best cook out of all the kids in that class and was getting better grades than anyone else. She was a girl from a rich family and most kids thought she was a snob when she arrived at Eriol Academy. But Kiyoko and her friends got to know her and found out that she wasn't the rich snob she was always assumed to be. Currently, their group and Yuri's were the only two cooking groups that hadn't burnt anything yet.
"Wow, the dumplings are coming out better than I thought," Kiyoko commented, taking a look dumplings.
Tamiko smiled and turned to Junko.
"You're good at preparing meals, Junko," she complemented, "you'll be a famous Chef one day."
Junko blushed and looked away.
"No, I'm not that good, really," she insisted.
Kiyoko straightened up from looking into the classes mini-stove and turned to Junko.
"Yes you are, Junko-chan," she insisted, "you're better than me."
Tamiko grinned, slyly.
"Yeah," she said, "like the time you nearly burned the classroom down two weeks ago."
Kiyoko gave Tamiko a look while Junko chuckled at the memory.
"I just turned away for a minute," she protested, then sighed, "that's why we let Junko-chan handle the stove stuff."
Junko smiled and went besides Kiyoko to check on the dumplings.
"You're pretty good at mixing ingredients, Kiyoko," she said, checking the temperature of the stove, "and Tamiko is good at measurements. You're both good at cooking, you just have to learn not to take your eyes off the stove for too long."
Kiyoko rolled her eyes as Tamiko chuckled at that last statement.
"Anyway," Kiyoko piped in, "how do you guys feel about the Tournament after school?"
Tamiko shrugged.
"I got through my matches and Youzen and I are still in one piece," she said, smiling in the direction of her school bag, where her Angel slept, "I think we'll be okay."
Junko looked up from the stove.
"It really doesn't matter to me," she said, playing with her hair, timidly, "Kara and I just play for fun. After all, Angelic Layer 'is' a game."
"And it's a really great one," Tamiko concluded.
All three girls nodded at that statement. Junko then turned to Kiyoko.
"Why? How do you feel about the Tournament, Kiyoko?" she asked, "you did terrific in your matches the other day."
Tamiko brightened.
"Yeah, you beat Hatoko-san and Suzuka," Tamiko said, excited, "you and Raishinshi have nothing to worry about."
Junko turned to them both.
"I still can't believe you two are friends with Kobayashi Hatoko now," she said, "if you hadn't introduced me to her I never would've known."
Kiyoko, embarrassed, looked at the floor.
"Well........we just met that day," she mumbled, "and I can't help but wonder who my next opponent is."
Tamiko shrugged as Junko checked the stove again.
"I just keep myself busy until the Tournament comes," she said, "that way I don't stress out."
Junko looked up from the stove.
"Yes, stress can get in the way in a fight," she agreed, "trying to be relieved of stress in time for the Tournament is something all Deus' should do. That way they won't lose focus on their Angel."
Kiyoko smiled. Junko was really smart when it came to analyzing the bond between Deus and Angel. But she couldn't help but worry about her next match. Raishinshi had barely made it through his match with Suzuka the other day and she was worrying that it might happen again. But the thought of all her friends being there at the Stadium, cheering her on, was enough to boost her confidence a bit. And, of course, her fathers' advice and Hatoko's words of 'believing' echoed in her mind.
(As long as I believe.........)
The sound of a small explosion and a burst of shouts drew the three girls' attention away from their conversation and over to Kens' group. Smoke was coming from the oven while Ken and two other boys were panicking and calling for the teacher. Tamiko rolled her eyes at the sight.
"If anyone needs to take cooking lessons from Junko, it'd be Ken," she mumbled.
All three girls started laughing.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Ogata checked his watch. It was an hour and a half until the fourth day of the Tournament took place and he couldn't find the Chief. Again.
(Why does he always have to disappear just before the games start?) the dark-haired man wondered, booting up his computer, (ever since I gave him the roster for today he's been acting weird, now he's vanished. I just hope he's back in time for the start of the.........)
"Ogata?"
Ogata nearly jumped a foot in the air at the sound of another voice. He turned to see Yuko standing in the doorway, folders in her hand. He sighed.
"Oh, Yuko, you startled me," he said, turning around to completely to face her, "for a second I thought you were the Chief."
Yuko stared at him.
"He's not here?" she asked, surprised, "but only a few minutes ago he asked me to type out some data for him."
Ogata scratched his head and then glanced at the folders.
"Are those it?" he asked.
Yuko looked down at them and nodded.
"Yeah, they're the data on the fights from the 5th Official Tournament," she said, moving to her own computer, "Chief wanted to compare one set with another."
Ogata watched her boot up her computer as he thought about what she just said.
"Compare them?" he repeated, "who'd he compare them with?"
Yuko only shrugged.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
The minute the school bell rang, the kids of Eriol Academy stampeded out of their rooms, and out into the schoolyard. Half of them were heading home, but an even bigger half was heading for Piffle Princess. The Tokyo Prelims' was at its fourth day. Once the one on Friday was over, the six selected Deus' would be off to the Kanto Prelims. All the kids were excited. Most cheered for stars like Fujisaki Madoka, Seto Ringo, Kobayashi Hatoko, and, of course, Yukiwa Saburo. Others rooted well-known regulars like Tamiko and Junko. But one of the most talked about issues on the Middle School level was Kiyoko. Nobody could believe a rookie like her could make it this far, and even beat a star Deus. Right now, Kiyoko and her friends were on their way to the Stadium, talking as they went.
"There are only four matches left for you guys," Takumi said, turning to the girls, "then you'll be off to the Kanto Prelims."
Ken grinned in their direction.
"Yeah, then you'll be fighting against all the Deus' from the region of Kanto!" he cried, running ahead of them, jumping with excitement, "then you can kick all of 'their' butts!"
Takumi rolled his eyes as the girls laughed at the sight. As they walked past the two flower shops, Yuri turned to Kiyoko.
"Are you nervous?" she asked, "about your next match, I mean?"
Kiyoko turned to Yuri with a look of embarrassment.
"Well.........yes," she admitted, knowing that she couldn't hide anything from Yuri, "I know I have more faith in Raishinshi and myself, but........."
"You're afraid he'll get hurt like in the match with Suzuka," Yuri concluded.
Kiyoko looked at her in surprise, but it faded. She was used to Yuri's ability to sense how others feel.
"Yes," she said, "but, I don't want that to hold me back. It's just, well, I don't know who I'll be fighting next. What if it's another star Deus?"
Tamiko turned to her friend.
"Is that what you're worried about?" she asked, then continued without waiting for a reply, "I really doubt that they'd put you up against another star Deus so soon, Kiyoko. Maybe in the Kanto Prelims, but not in the Tokyo Prelims. Trust me, I've been there."
As the group approached the sheltered bridge, Takumi turned to Junko, who'd been pretty silent.
"What's your opinion, Junko?" he asked, "what do you think about this situation?"
Junko looked up at everyone, a bit thoughtful.
"Well, like I was telling Tamiko and Kiyoko in 3rd period," she began, "Kara and I really just play for fun. Angelic Layer is basically a game. The goal is to have fun."
Everyone smiled at the wise words while Ken just looked confused.
"I thought the goal was to fight and become the strongest," he said.
The girls stared at him while Takumi gave him a 'look'.
"Ken, the fights are a part of the game," he explained, "it's like a video game, for example. In order to advance further into the game, you need to fight. It's not about beating the opponent up just for fun, it's a game of skill and teamwork."
Ken was a bit taken aback at Takumi's words, but sighed.
"Sorry," he said, bowing his head.
Everyone smiled. Then, Ken straightened up with a wide grin.
"But it still doesn't hurt to root for the strongest," he added.
Takumi rolled his eyes in exasperation while girls simply started laughing. There was no getting anywhere with Ken.
"Well, I doubt I'll get farther than the Tokyo Prelims," Junko said, after the laughter had subsided, "I already lost once."
Kiyoko turned to her.
"No way," she objected, "you'll ace through all of your matches and get to the Kanto Prelims. Just have confidence."
Junko smiled at Kiyoko. Tamiko, on the other hand, cocked her head to one side.
"Now where have I heard that before?" she asked.
Kiyoko gave her friend a look as Junko chuckled.
"But, seriously," Kiyoko said, turning back to Junko, "I just 'know' you can make it."
The shy girl smiled up at Kiyoko.
"Arigatou," she said.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
As Kiyoko and her friends approached the Stadium, they had no idea they were being watched by a pair of glowering gray eyes. They were fixed on the small brunette who was amongst a group of other kids. Two of the girls she recognized as Deus', she didn't know the other three. The eyes watched as the friends stopped in front of the Stadium and talked a bit before everyone but the brunette went inside. She watched as the girl fished around in her school bag and brought out an Angel, a boy Angel dressed in purple and black. She watched as the girl placed the Angel on her right shoulder as she looked for something else in her bag.
That was when the eyes moved.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Kiyoko and her friends had arrived at the Stadium with a few minutes to spare, but there was no sign of Kiyoko's Moms' van. Kiyoko had decided to wait outside for her mother to arrive. As her friends went in, Kiyoko took Raishinshi out of her school bag, and began to search for her Angel Card. Just then, someone bumped into her, hard, causing her to stumble to the right. She felt something slide off her shoulder and her eyes grew wide.
"Raishinshi!" she cried, whirling around.........and was face-to-face with a tall girl with spiky blond hair and ice blue eyes.
Kiyoko blinked. She knew this lady. That's when she noticed the girls' extended hand and the boy Angel laying in it.
"Raishinshi! Thank goodness!" Kiyoko cried, relieved, and took her Angel. She then looked up at the older girl. "Thank you so much for saving Raishinshi."
The blond tomboy smiled and gave a small nod. It was then that Kiyoko noticed the equally tomboy-ish Angel sitting on the girls' shoulder. It was Vasquez.
"Oh, you're, uh, Yamamo Toho, right?" she asked, politely.
The older girl nodded again.
"Yep," she replied, "and you're that new 'Wonder Rookie' everybody is talking about. The newbie Deus that beat Light-Speed Suzuka."
Kiyoko blushed a bit.
"Oh, I'm that popular now, huh?" she asked, shyly.
Toho shrugged.
"Not everybody can beat her," she stated, "in fact, you're one of the four Deus' who managed to win against her. You've gotten off to a pretty good start kiddo."
Kiyoko blushed a bit more. Getting complements from someone older was not something she was used to. Toho began to walk towards the Stadium.
"Hope you make it to the Kanto Prelims," she called back, "who knows, maybe we'll run into one another."
Kiyoko turned and watched her go inside the Stadium. She smiled a bit.
(She doesn't seem as bad as all the kids at school say she is,) Kiyoko thought.
"I'M WIGGLY ICCHAN!"
Kiyoko jumped and whirled around to see Icchan, arms in a waving motion, standing behind her.
"Mr. Icchan! Uh, where did you come from?" Kiyoko managed to say, still not used to her friends' pop-up trick.
Icchan stopped waving his arms and smiled.
"That's a secret," he said, adjusting his glasses, "you seem to be getting along well with other Deus' I see."
Knowing that he was talking about Toho, Kiyoko nodded.
"Yeah, it's funny though," she said, "a lot of kids say that she's mean, but she didn't act like it. She even saved Raishinshi."
Icchan gave her a knowing smile and rubbed his chin.
"Did you know that her real name is Yamamo Tomoko?" he asked.
Kiyoko blinked and stared up at him. Icchan nodded.
"Yep, Toho's her nickname," he explained, "she started using it around the time of the 5th Tournament. She practically declared it right there in her Angel Chair."
Kiyoko gave him a confused look.
"Tomoko sounds like a nice name," she said, honestly, "why hide it?"
Icchan shrugged, then looked down at her.
"By the way, I came here to tell you something about your next match," he said, getting serious.
Kiyoko instantly looked up at him when he mentioned her next match.
"You'll be going against someone you know," Icchan continued, "I'm not sure who it is. But I do know this: you can't hold back."
Kiyoko was stunned. Someone she knew? Her eyes widened.
(It can't be Tamiko-chan!) she thought in horror, (it just can't!)
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
After waiting a couple more minutes, Kiyoko's family arrived. Before Kiyoko could introduce Icchan, she realized that he was gone. She had gone inside after that and had been given the number E-4, but she was too busy thinking about what Icchan had said to her. She was so busy thinking, she didn't notice as the first match began.
('Someone I know'? It can't be Tamiko, no way,) Kiyoko kept thinking to herself, (she said that Deus' don't have to fight star Deus' twice in the Tokyo Prelims.) Then she remembered.........(Oh, that's right, she's a regular, not a star. But still! Oh man, how can I fight my best friend? After all the encouragement she gave me.)
Cheers from the TV in the waiting room caused her to look up. Her eyes widened at who she saw fighting. An Angel covered completely in black and indigo was fighting an Angel on ice-skates.
(Higure and Katalina,) Kiyoko thought, surprised, (I didn't know they were fighting.)
Now that she thought about it, Kiyoko didn't get a chance to look at the roster. She was too busy thinking about Icchans' last words. Now she watched the match before her, curiosity taking over.
Katalina was spinning in place with one leg extended, the position of her famous 'Spin Kick'. She was currently skating in place while Higure was standing half a foot away, watching the skating Angel with bored violet eyes. The same violet eyes that stared at Raishinshi when he was beaten. The screen zoomed in on the Box Screen. Both Angels had full health and the timer was only at 9 min. It then zoomed in on the Deus'. Katalina's Deus, Yuuko, was smiling at Higure while across from her, Saburo sported his usual cool demeanor. Kiyoko furrowed her brow.
(How can he be so calm?) she thought, (his Angel can't approach Katalina.)
Back on the Layer, Katalina spun forward, smiling. Higure didn't move an inch. As Katalina reached him, she swung her leg towards the dark Angels' face. Without warning, Higure's right leg came up, and wrapped around the ice-skating Angels' leg. With a twist of his body, Higure caused himself and Katalina to fall with a thud on the Layer, stomach first, but Higure rebounded with his hands. He landed, spun around, and kicked Katalina hard in the stomach. She quietly gasped in pain as she flew into the air. Yuuko gasped as she watched her Angel go flying. Saburo, on the other hand, simply smiled.
In the time it takes one to blink, Higure leapt into the air after Katalina. Once he was close enough to her, he gave her a midair left side kick that hit her right in the stomach. Katalina cried out again as she sailed towards the edge of the Layer, slid through the force field, and landed in her shocked Deus' lap. Higure landed just as the buzzer sounded. Nobody spoke for three seconds.
"Higure, Win!"
The crowd cheered as Saburo removed his Angel Goggles and stood up.
"Another stunning performance by the 'Speed King'!" the announcer complemented, "he's won all his matches so far in only none to one minute matches! Can he be any better?!"
Saburo smirked at the complement as he took Higure from the Layer and headed back to the Layer area's exit. Back in the East waiting room, Kiyoko stared in shock.
(My gosh! That was harsh,) she thought, holding Raishinshi close to her, (I hope he's not the 'someone I know' that Icchan was talking about.)
She shuddered at the thought of facing him again this soon.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Back in the Stadium, up on the balcony, five of the seven girls who watched the Angel fights were present. They watched as the second match began, but for some of them, their minds were elsewhere.
"Which match does Yume Kiyoko have?" Jounouchi Sai asked, flatly.
A girl with glasses who stood besides her, answered.
"Her match is the fourth one," Saito Kaede said.
A girl next to her, with two golden ponytails, turned her with excited blue eyes.
"Does that mean Kiyoko-chan will be fighting soon?" Seto Ringo asked.
Kaede smiled at her and nodded, causing Ringo to hop up and down with excitement. A couple of girls a ways away heard and the taller of the two turned to everyone.
"Do you think Raishinshi will do alright in this match?" Fujisaki Madoka asked.
"I don't see why not," Kaede replied.
The smaller girl looked around before looking up at the taller girl.
"Where's Misaki and Hatoko?" Fujisaki Arisu asked, curiously.
Sai looked towards the audience.
"They said something about meeting up with some friends," she said, scanning the crowd, "feels almost incomplete without the Champion and the 'Invincible Venus' up here, eh?"
Kaede giggled.
"Misaki-chan said that she met Kiyoko-san yesterday," she stated, "maybe she and Hatoko-chan went to cheer her on."
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
"Eeeeee! Where 'is' everyone?!" Kizaki Tamayo wailed as she searched the stands.
A girl next to her looked around in confusion.
"I hope we're not too late to meet Kiyoko," Suzuhara Misaki said.
"I told you we should of gotten here sooner Tamayo," Kobayashi Kotaro stated from behind the girls.
Tamayo whirled on him and grabbed him in a headlock.
"Heyheyhey! I had work detail and it's YOU'RE fault, Kotaro-chan!" the dirty blond snapped.
The dark-haired boy was on the verge of choking in her grasp.
"I.........wasn't the.........one who.........got into.........a fight," he managed to gasp.
Tamayo didn't stop squeezing and Misaki was getting worried. That's when she felt someone tug on her sleeve.
"Misaki, look," Kobayashi Hatoko said, pointing in front of them.
Misaki turned and caught a glimpse of Mrs. Yume sitting a couple aisles in front. Misaki beamed.
"There they are!" she cried, turning to her friends, "Tamayo-chan! Kotaro- chan! I see them."
The dirty blond stopped her chokehold and allowed Kotaro to breath regularly again. In a couple of seconds, the foursome was at the aisle.
"Hello Mrs. Yume, minna," Misaki said, politely, bowing.
Mrs. Yume and the others turned to them. The older woman gave a wide smile.
"Oh, hello again Misaki," she greeted, cheerfully, "I didn't expect you were going to visit us."
Tamayo moved besides Misaki.
"We came here to cheer for Kikiyoko!" she stated, determined.
Kotaro rolled his eyes as Yuri looked over at them.
"Kiyoko and Tamiko already went to the waiting rooms," she informed them, "but you're welcome to sit and watch."
Misaki frowned as she and her friends sat beside Kiyoko's friends.
"I was hoping to wish her luck," she said, sadly.
Takumi gave her a smile.
"Don't worry, I'm sure she'll do fine," he assured her, "she's improved greatly in each match."
"I agree," Hatoko commented, "and again we're sorry for coming by so late."
Kotaro sat back in his seat.
"Well, we would've came sooner, but we had to wait for Tamayo to get out of work detail," he explained.
Takumi blinked.
"Work detail? Why was she in work detail?" he inquired.
Kotaro sighed.
"She started up a fight with another girl," he said.
Everyone stared at him when he said that.
"A fight?!" Ken gasped, "ya mean you actually hit someone?!"
Tamayo huffed, looking a bit disappointed.
"Nope, I just tackled her," she replied.
Everybody sweat-dropped.
"It would've gotten worse if Kotaro-chan hadn't called a teacher over," Misaki explained.
Tamayo suddenly leaned over and grabbed Kotaro in a headlock once more.
"And I wouldn't have been late if it weren't for you!" she snapped.
As Kotaro struggled, Yuri leaned over to her.
"Why exactly did you start up a fight?" she asked.
Tamayo turned to her.
"She put down Kikiyoko and Raishinshi," she stated.
Mrs. Yume turned to her in surprise.
"Put them down?" she repeated in surprise, "why?"
Tamayo shrugged as Kotaro managed to break away.
"I dunno," she stated, "she was some High School girl with gray eyes and she said that Kikiyoko'd lose before the Tokyo Prelims were over."
Takumi narrowed his eyes as the second match ended.
"Why would anyone say anything like that?" he wondered, ignoring the cheering crowd.
Before anyone could answer, the announcer spoke up.
"The third round is now starting! Hold on tight folks!" he cried, as the Angel girls held up a card that said 'Battle 3'.
In the Layer area, a girl with long black hair and silvery eyes came out of the East Corner door. She was carrying a purple-haired Angel dressed in blue.
"In the East Corner, Deus Shimata Maria and Angel Tsubaki!" the announcer announced.
Takumi's eyes widened as he saw the girl.
(Tamiko fought with her,) he said, (and she said something about-)
Just then, another girl came from the West Corner. With spiky blond hair and ice blue eyes, it could be only one person.
"And in the West Corner, commando Deus Yamamo Toho and her Angel, the 'Goddess of Destruction', Vasquez!" the announcer cried.
The crowd cheered loudly as both Deus' took their seats in their respective Angel Chairs and put on their Angel Goggles. The minute they turned them on-
"Entry Angel!"
The stats filled out on the Box Screen and the force field came to life. Both chairs were raised to Layer level so that both determined Deus' met eye to eye. Maria brought her Angel to her chest.
"My only partner, the World's Strongest, Tsubaki!" Maria cried and tossed her Angel towards the Layer, "Angel, fall-in!"
Tsubaki slid through the force field and opened her blue eyes. She did four flips in the air, and landed on her knees. She stood up, and waited for the match to begin.
Toho took Vasquez from her shoulder and held her out to the opponent as if she were showing her something.
"Resistance is futile," she said, then drew the hand that held her Angel back, "Annihilate her, Vasquez!" She threw her Angel at the Layer full force. "Angel, Fall in!"
Vasquez shot towards the Layer like a bullet. She slid through the force field and her ice blue eyes opened wide. The golden glow hardly had time to show as she flexed her arms and legs and landed square on the Layer, flexing her muscles again to show off. Both Angels narrowed their eyes at one another.
"Angelic Fight!"
At the sound of the buzzer, Tsubaki leapt into the air. She did a couple of front flips to get to Vasquez and aimed a drop kick at her face. But the tomboy Angel was ready and brought her arms up horizontally in front of her face. Tsubaki's foot hit her arms, only giving Vasquez five damage points. The blue Angel bounced off, landed on the Layer, and charged again. As she approached Vasquez, she crouched down in front of her, and leapt forward into a low kick. She was heading right for the tomboy Angels' stomach.
But Toho was ready. She had Vasquez grab the oncoming foot and had her spin around, and fling Tsubaki across the Layer. She landed hard on the Layer, losing five points herself.
"What an amazing start ladies and gentlemen!" the announcer told the cheering fans, "I can't wait to see where this fight goes!"
Tsubaki got up and faced Vasquez, who was currently charging her. Tsubaki quickly ducked and dodged the punches that came her way and, when she saw an opening, threw a fierce right jab at her opponents' face. But Vasquez effortlessly caught the punch before it reached her face. In one swift move, she right side kicked Tsubaki right in the stomach. Tsubaki let out a silent moan as she flew back a couple feet. Her Damage Gauge dropped to 80%. Tsubaki managed to get to her feet just as Vasquez moved in and delivered a fierce right spin kick that knocked Tsubaki another foot away, almost getting her a Layer Out.
"Ouch! That had to hurt!" the announcer cried, "things aren't looking good for Tsubaki!"
Maria winced as she checked her Angels' damage and willed her Angel to stand. The purple-haired Angel stood up and glared at the pink-haired Angel, who was smiling at her. Tsubaki charged again and leapt forward, executing a midair left roundhouse. Vasquez quickly her left arm to block, though she still took damage, and so did Tsubaki. Back in the stands, Mrs. Yume noticed that, and frowned.
"How come that blue Angel got hurt? She didn't get hit," she stated.
Kotaro watched as Tsubaki landed and Vasquez jumped back a ways.
"Well, if an Angel strikes too hard or lands hard on the Layer, that Angel attains damage too," he explained, "it's sort of like a recoil."
Ken scratched his head.
"That hasn't happened to Raishinshi," he pointed out.
Hatoko looked thoughtful.
"That's because Kiyoko is guiding Raishinshi correctly," she said, "she struck carefully and used pretty well made strategies."
"Or she's just lucky," Aya muttered under her breath.
Hatoko heard her, but didn't reply.
Back on the Layer, Tsubaki leapt up again, right over Vasquez's head. She began to spin around in midair, looking like a drill. Vasquez crouched and jumped up, punching Tsubaki right in the stomach in mid-spin, shocking Maria. Tsubaki let out a silent gasp as she fell to the Layer. Before she could even get up, Vasquez landed, her knees impacting with Tsubaki's stomach. The blue Angel grit her teeth as her Damage sank to 40%. Misaki winced. Yuri noticed.
"Are Maria and Tsubaki friends of yours?" she asked.
Misaki nodded.
"Yes, they are," she replied, "Maria-chan's really good at Angelic Layer, but Yamamo-san has been playing longer. She's really strong."
Takumi frowned as Tsubaki got up on the Layer.
"She's a Stamina type, a Heavyweight by the looks of her," he deduced, "Tsubaki is a Speed, Lightweight. Maria is outmatched."
Tsubaki charged at Vasquez again, right arm arched back for an all or nothing punch. Vasquez also charged with her right arm drawn back. As both approached, both Angels punched forward, crossing each other in mid-dash. Both stopped a foot away from one another, standing with an arm extended. A few seconds past with everyone waiting. Finally, Vasquez straightened out, and Tsubaki collapsed. The purple-haired Angels Gauge dropped to 0 and the timer stopped at 7 min. with Vasquez only at 85% health.
"Vasquez, Win!" the announcer declared.
The crowd cheered as Maria took off her Angel Goggles, and stared at her defeated Angel, sadly. Toho took off her Goggles as well, smiling. Back up on the balcony, Sai shook her head at the match.
"It figures," she commented, "Yamamo never goes easy in her fights."
Back in the stands, Mrs. Yume frowned.
"She was so rough fighting against that blue Angel," she murmured, "I thought this was just a game."
"Some people are like Ken," Takumi explained, "they like competing just to win for glory."
Yuri frowned.
"Those are the Deus' that don't believe in their Angels," she added, "and to think Kiyoko nearly became one of them."
Tamayo turned to her.
"Speaking of Kikiyoko," she said, "doesn't she fight next?"
Hearing that, everyone grew nervous. Unlike Kiyoko, they'd seen the roster, and didn't like what they had read.
"Well, she.........does," Takumi said, slowly.
Misaki leaned forward in her seat.
"Who does she have to fight?" she asked.
The others looked at one another and Takumi turned to tell her.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Kiyoko watched Toho leave the Layer area from the TV in the East Waiting Room.
(She fights so hard,) she thought, (why does she fight that way?)
Kiyoko wished that Tamiko was with her, but the blond girl was transferred to the West Corner, something that didn't help Kiyoko's train of thought one bit. It only fueled what Icchan had told her more. She stared down at Raishinshi. He was sleeping in her hands. Kiyoko sighed and held him up.
(I don't want to fight a friend,) she said, (it'd be too painful for me. What if I-)
"E-4, Ms. Yume Kiyoko?"
Looking up from her thoughts, Kiyoko turned to see a lady in uniform.
"Here," she replied, softly.
The lady turned to her and motioned to the hallway.
"You're next," she said.
Kiyoko merely nodded and headed down the pink hallway. She kept thinking about what Icchan had said, not really paying much attention to where she was going.
BUMP!
Kiyoko walked right into someone, grabbing hold of Raishinshi to keep him from falling. She looked up.
"G-gomen nasaii! I didn't mean to-" then she saw who it was.
Yukiwa Saburo stood staring at her, navy eyes narrowed.
"I'm glad you're not this clumsy on the Layer," he remarked.
Kiyoko turned red and looked away.
"I-I didn't see you," she said, meekly.
Saburo shrugged.
"Whatever," he said, eying her, "did you see who you have to fight?"
Kiyoko shook her head.
"No, not really," she admitted, "but I heard it's somebody I know. I think it might be one of my friends."
The two of them stood in front of each other for a second before Saburo began to walk past her. However, he hesitated a step behind her.
"If you want to get any farther," he began, "I suggest you don't hold back."
Kiyoko said nothing as he continued his way down the hall. Feeling more troubled now than before, the brunette headed for the Stadium.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
"The fourth battle is HERE, Layer fans!" the announcer cried to the cheering crowd.
Kiyoko's party was sitting silently among the roaring crowd, waiting for the Deus' to enter. The girls in the balcony stared expectantly down at the Layer area. Back in the Computer Room, Icchan was sitting in his normal seat, watching the Stadium from the visual screen. From the East corner, a small figure emerged with a purple Angel sitting on her forearm. Kiyoko looked around at the cheering crowd.
"In the East Corner, Deus Yume Kiyoko and Angel Raishinshi!" the announcer called out.
The crowd cheered louder as Kiyoko approached the East Angel Chair. She stared over at the West corner entrance, waiting to see Tamiko. From it, however, came a girl with light brown hair and an Angel who was dressed in a pink and blue ballerina outfit.
"And in the West Corner, Deus Kikaru Junko and Angel Kara!" the announcer concluded.
Kiyoko's eyes widened.
(WHAT??!) she thought in shock, (Junko-chan is my opponent??!)
The crowd cheered as the announcer continued to speak.
"Yume and her Angel have won six battles so far, most being strong opponents!" he said, "this includes, Kobayashi's 'Light-Speed Suzuka'! But Kikaru and Kara have fought their way this far with no signs of quitting, can Yume beat the 'Layer Ballerina'?!"
Kiyoko stared at Junko in surprise as Junko approached her.
"I hope we have a good match, Kiyoko," she said, looking at the ballet Angel that sat plainly on her forearm.
Kiyoko couldn't find her voice and merely nodded. Both Deus' went to their Angel Chairs and sat down. In the West waiting room, Tamiko watched the screen in a disturbed expression. She held Youzen close to her.
(I don't know who to cheer for,) she thought, (they're both my friends. I don't want either to lose.)
As the two 12 year-olds slipped on their Angel Goggles, Kiyoko stared again at Junko.
(I have to fight Junko?) she thought, turning her Goggles on.
"Entry Angel!"
The stats entered the Box Screen and the force field appeared. Both chairs were raised up to Layer level and once again both girls were looking at one another. Kiyoko stared at Junko, her mind cluttered with so many things. Why, out of all the Deus' here, did she have to fight her friend?
(I.........I can't.........) she thought, slowly, (I-)
"Kiyoko-chan?"
Kiyoko snapped out of thought and realized that Junko was looking in her direction.
"Huh?" Kiyoko said.
The slender girl held Kara in both hands now.
"Which one of us should go first?" she asked.
Kiyoko blinked and looked at the Layer.
"Y-you can go first, Junko-chan," she said, softly.
Junko nodded and held Kara out in front of her.
"Dance for everyone on the Layer, Kara!" she cried, smiling, then brought her Angel down a bit, "Show everybody that you're a star!" She then flung Kara forward.
The cerulean-haired Angel flew through the Layers' force field, surrounded by a radiant glow. Kara's blue eyes opened and she did a vertical twist in the air, scattering the glow, her pigtails swirling around her.
"Angel, Fall in!" Junko concluded.
Kara straightened out of her spin and landed on her pointed toes. She did a little twirl before stopping to face Kiyoko, smiling. Kiyoko stared at Kara for a while before looking down at Raishinshi. He was still sleeping on her arm. Knowing that she couldn't sit and stare forever, Kiyoko took her Angel from her forearm, closed her eyes, and held Raishinshi level to her face.
"Never give up!" she cried, then opened her eyes and raised Raishinshi over her head with both hands, "Justice is on our side!" She drew her right arm back, her right hand gripping her Angel. "Raishinshi!" she finished, throwing her Angel towards the Layer.
He sailed towards the force field, eyes closed, violet Angel Cords whipping around behind him. He slid through the force field, making it ripple, and was surrounded by a golden glow. His eyes opened wide and he spread his arms and legs, causing the golden glow to vanish.
"Angel, Fall in!" Kiyoko concluded.
He tucked his knees up to his chest and moved his outstretched arms behind him, fists clenched. He descended towards the Layer at a high speed. When he was only a foot away from the surface, he front flipped into a crouch. In one fluid movement, he straightened up, bent his knees, and raised his arms into a boxing position. However, due to his Deus' current thoughts, he didn't stare down Kara. Instead, his brown-red eyes held an uneasy look.
Back in the stands, Mrs. Yume looked on with an uneasy look herself.
"I don't know if Kiyoko can do this," she admitted.
Ken turned to her.
"But, I thought you said that we should believe in her," he stated.
Mrs. Yume grew more uneasy.
"This is different," she explained, "she's fighting a friend. She never likes to see her friends get hurt."
Aya gave her mother a sigh.
"It's not like she's fighting her directly," she huffed.
Takumi furrowed his brow.
"That may be," he said, "but Junko cares a lot about Kara and Kiyoko knows it." He sat back in his chair. "Kiyoko might not be able to fight."
Back in the Layer area, Kiyoko was nervous. She stared at Junko and her Angel. Both looked ready. But Kiyoko was still troubled on the inside. She didn't want to fight a friend, but if she didn't-
"Now, Angelic Fight!" the announcer suddenly cried.
The buzzer sounded and Kiyoko gave a start.
Kara immediately made the first move. She rose on her toes, folded her arms in front of her, and started to twirl on her toes, heading right for Raishinshi. Kiyoko gasped. Raishinshi didn't have time to react as Kara quickly got within striking range and, as she spun around, delivered a right spin kick. The kick smacked the purple Angel in the left upper arm, causing him to topple over. He extended his right hand and stopped himself from falling. Without hesitation, Kara did a right forward kick, aiming to catch Raishinshi in the stomach. But Raishinshi quickly rolled away and stood up, facing Kara.
"Looks like Kara has gained the upper hand early in the match!" the announcer commented.
Kiyoko grit her teeth. She had lost her focus and let Kara get too close. She tried to keep her mind on the match, but she kept thinking about Junko.
(Why do I have to fight my friend?) she thought.
Kara came at Raishinshi again, running this time. Kiyoko came out of her thoughts just in time to see Kara reach Raishinshi. Since his Deus wasn't focusing fully on him, he just stood there, motionless. Kara gave him a swift punch across his face and delivered another to his stomach. It was only then that Kiyoko's focus fully resumed. Raishinshi leapt back a bit and put up a guard.
However, his Damage Gauge was already at 80%.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Ogata was watching the fight from his computer and frowned at the sight.
"He's not even countering," he commented, aloud, "is his Deus feeling alright?"
Icchan was frowning at the screen.
"The West Corner Deus is a friend of Kiyoko's," he explained, "she's hesitating in fighting her friends' Angel."
Ogata blinked.
"Huh? Hesitating?" he repeated, confused, "but, her Angel might lose if she does that."
Icchan frowned even more.
"That's what I'm worried about," he said.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Kara charged at Raishinshi again. The purple Angel got into a boxing stance and waited for the ballet Angel to approach. As Kara grew closer, she thrust out her right fist at Raishinshi's face. He quickly ducked and drew his right arm back, aiming for Kara's stomach. But, in an amazing feat of agility, Kara placed her hands on his shoulders, and lifted herself off the ground before Raishinshi could even execute the punch. The audience was fascinated at the sight. Kara was hand-standing on her opponents shoulders. Raishinshi looked up at her with surprised eyes as Kara simply smiled down at him. Then, Kara swung her legs down, bent her knees, and drove them into Raishinshi's stomach. Gritting his teeth, the boy Angel fell on his back as Kara jumped away.
Kiyoko swallowed hard at the sight and tried to stay focused.
(I gotta calm down,) she thought, (I have to focus.)
Raishinshi slowly got up, but not before receiving an extra five damage points.
"Oh my!" Mrs. Yume cried, seeing his damage shrink, "what happened?"
Kotaro moved up in his seat.
"If an Angel is hit too hard and tries to move too soon after the hit, its damaged spot becomes stressed," he explained, "and the Angel is damaged more."
Yuri frowned and focused her silvery eyes on Kiyoko.
(Kiyoko,) she thought, (you must focus.)
Back on the Layer, Raishinshi straightened out and stared at Kara. She was standing a foot away from him, waiting patiently in a ballet position. Kiyoko took a deep breath.
(Okay, we need to go in,) she thought.
Raishinshi broke out into a run, heading straight for Kara. The ballet Angel tensed as the purple Angel closed in. He drew back his right fist to strike when-
("Well, I doubt I'll get farther than the Tokyo Prelims," Junko had said, "I already lost once.")
Kiyoko's eyes widened and Raishinshi skidded to a halt right in front of Kara, his eyes blank.
"Huh?! What's going on?! Why has Angel Raishinshi stopped?!" the announcer cried.
Kara stared at Raishinshi with curious blue eyes. Junko looked in Kiyoko's direction. She noticed how stressed the brunette looked.
(What's wrong with Kiyoko?) she thought.
The timer was already at 7 min. and, up on the balcony, Arisu was staring down at Raishinshi.
"What is 'wrong' with that Angel?" she wondered, aloud, "he had a perfect chance to attack and he leaves himself wide open."
Kaede stared down at the two Angels.
"Maybe his Deus is just being cautious," she offered.
Arisu narrowed her green eyes.
"He hasn't even put up much of a fight," she stated, "and you call that cautious?"
The other three girls merely watched expectantly. Below them, in the doorway of one of the entrances, Saburo watched the fight, his expression sour.
"I can't believe she's doing this," he muttered, "you can't hold back in an Angel Fight just because you're fighting a friend."
But in this case, that was exactly what Kiyoko was doing. She knew how Junko felt about Kara, she was like another friend of sorts to her. Junko had told her, when she first moved to Tokyo, about how nobody wanted to be friends with her because she was rich, and everyone had assumed that she was a snob just because her sister was one. When Junko was introduced to Angelic Layer and made Kara, she instantly became attached to her and saw her as a friend, even after she met Kiyoko. Kiyoko felt the same way about Raishinshi: she felt that he was a part of her family now, she'd never want to hurt him.
(I-I don't want to hurt Kara,) Kiyoko thought, sadly, (what if I damage her badly? What if Junko-chan becomes sad? I don't want to hurt her feelings by hurting her Angel. But, if I don't attack-)
"Kiyoko-chan?"
Kiyoko looked up at the sound of her name and saw that it was Junko. She blinked in confusion as Junko gazed at her with gray-brown eyes.
"Why are you holding back?" she asked, calmly.
Kiyoko blinked again and gave a sound of confusion.
"I know you normally don't fight this way," Junko continued, "and I didn't understand it until now. Why don't you want to fight?"
Kiyoko couldn't find her voice. Junko was right; she didn't normally fight this way. She was usually always cautious in her attacks and movements, but now Raishinshi's movement was sloppy and hesitant. He hardly even came close to hitting Kara.
"I know you must not like fighting a friend and I know that you're probably afraid to hurt Kara," Junko said, "but you can't hold back, otherwise your own Angel will be hurt."
Kiyoko didn't speak. Junko was always serious when it came to Angelic Layer. But, this time she sounded............mad?
(Maybe I 'should' fight back,) Kiyoko thought.
("You'll ace through all of your matches and get to the Kanto Prelims. Just have confidence. I just 'know' you can make it," she had said, earlier in the day.)
(But, I gave Junko encouragement,) she thought, nervously, (how can Raishinshi and I turn around and attack her after trying to give her confidence?)
Kiyoko was confused. And Junko saw this.
(I'm sorry, Kiyoko-chan,) she thought with a frown.
Kara suddenly came to life again and spin kicked Raishinshi across the face, making him crash to the Layer.
"Raishinshi!" Kiyoko cried.
"Ouch! That one had to hurt!" the announcer declared over a cheering crowd, "Kara scores a hard spin kick!"
Raishinshi looked up at the ballet Angel with uncertainty.
"C'mon Kikiyoko!" Tamayo screamed from her seat, "you've gotta fight back!"
Hatoko watched, sadly.
"She's not concentrating," she said, "she's too busy thinking about Kara."
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Back in the Video Room, Icchan and Ogata were both watching the match, a bit worried.
"She isn't staying focused," Icchan said, "she and that girl must be close."
Ogata watched nervously as Raishinshi stood up.
"Raishinshi hasn't even touched Kara, but she's already knocked him down to 50 Damage points," he said, "I thought you said that she cares about her Angel."
Icchan narrowed his eyes.
"She does, but she's confused now," he explained, "she's the type of person who cares for everyone. She cares about her friend and her friends' Angel. That's a sign of a true Deus, but right now, Kiyoko is unsure of whether or not she should hurt Kara."
Ogata faced his Chief.
"She could at least have her Angel defend himself," he said, still not fully understanding the situation, "why let him take hits?"
Icchan said nothing as he continued to watch.
(I'm just glad that 'he's' not here to see this,) he thought.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Kiyoko watched Kara tensely as she advanced on Raishinshi, who was tensed as well.
(I don't want to get Raishinshi hurt anymore,) she thought, (I have to at least dodge.)
The pink and blue Angel suddenly leapt into the air, surprising Raishinshi. She aimed her left foot at Raishinshi's head and began to descend. Kiyoko's eyes widened. Clenching his teeth, Raishinshi jumped back, letting Kara's foot smash harmlessly onto the Layer.
(At least she's making him dodge,) Takumi thought, leaning forward in his seat.
Kara pointed her toes, folded her arms before her, and started to twirl towards Raishinshi again. Raishinshi put up a guard and waited as Kara got closer and closer. When in range, Kara did a forward right kick. Raishinshi quickly cupped his hands and pushed the foot away. Hatoko blinked in recognition.
(That was how Suzuka repelled a kick when she fought Raishinshi,) she thought.
Meanwhile, Kara started to throw punches at Raishinshi's face. He quickly moved out of the way off all of them and then ducked as Kara executed another spin kick. He jumped back a bit and put up a guard.
"For the first time in this match, Raishinshi has finally put up the defensive!" the announcer cried, "looks like Yume is finally ready for action!"
Back in the doorway, Saburo gave a grunt of distaste.
(Yeah, right,) he thought, tempted to turn and leave.
Back in the West waiting area, Tamiko was more than worried. She had been nervous ever since the first strike and couldn't stop feeling worried for both her friends' Angels. She hugged Youzen close to her as the fight continued. Back on the balcony, Sai watched the fight without an expression.
(Well,) she thought, (at least he'll avoid her attacks from now on.)
Junko looked at Raishinshi then at Kiyoko. The small girl was breathing hard and visibly nervous.
(Kiyoko,) Junko thought, sadly.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Back in the stands.........
"C'MON KIYOKO!" Ken cried, "YOU CAN'T RUN FOREVER!"
Takumi gave his friend a look and glanced at the timer. It was at 5 min. He bit his lip.
"Time's slowly running out," he murmured, "if Raishinshi keeps running, he'll lose."
Yuri stared worriedly at the Layer.
"After what happened before we came here, the chat we had together," she mused, "Kiyoko must feel like if she attacks, she's betraying her friend."
Misaki turned to her.
"But that's not true," she said, worried herself, "when I had to fight Hatoko for the first time, I was nervous too. But I fought because I didn't want Hikaru to get hurt. And even though Suzuka beat her, Hatoko was still my friend. I didn't hold it against her. Angelic Layer is a game to be played with friends."
Takumi sighed as he turned to face him.
"Kiyoko is one of the most compassionate kids I've known," he explained, "Junko-chan already lost a match and Kiyoko probably thinks that if she beats Kara, Junko will be upset." He looked back at the Layer. "Kiyoko's really close to her friends."
Misaki's group softened at hearing how their new friend truly felt. Hatoko turned back to the Layer.
(Kiyoko,) she thought, (I know it's hard for you to fight someone who's close to you, but Raishinshi'll be hurt if you don't focus. You must believe in him.)
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Kiyoko watched Kara and her Angel, tensely. She had been making Raishinshi dodge so far, but she knew that dodging wouldn't win the fight. She swallowed, hard. She couldn't stop thinking about her friends' feelings, but she was also thinking about her Angel.
(Raishinshi, what'll I do?) she thought, staring at him, (how can we fight Junko-chan? If she losses again, she won't be able to participate in the Tournament anymore.)
Junko looked across at her friend and frowned. Kara charged forward again, approaching in ballet-like strides. Kiyoko panicked as she watched her approach. She didn't know what to do! She shut her eyes and cringed, causing Raishinshi to sag a bit, as if he, too, was cringing.
"Kiyoko! You have to dodge!" Tamiko cried from her waiting room.
Back on the Layer, Kara was almost upon Raishinshi. Kiyoko was still cringing, eyes squeezed shut.
(I'm so sorry, Raishinshi,) she thought, sadly, (I'm sorry if I let you down.)
Then-
("I promise I'll give you my best from now on, Raishinshi," she had vowed the other day.)
Kiyoko's eyes flew open. Kara leapt forward, her left leg up for a flying kick, aimed right for Raishinshi's stomach. Raishinshi's head shot up. He reached forward and grabbed Kara's left ankle just before her foot reached its target. Spinning around, he flung the ballet Angel across the Layer. She landed with a small thud and rolled a bit before stopping. Junko blinked.
"Woah! And Raishinshi manages to deflect Kara's kick!" the announcer shouted, "looks like he's ready to fight!"
Raishinshi turned to Kara. His eyes no longer held uneasiness, but certainty. Kiyoko swallowed again as she looked at him.
(I promised Raishinshi I wouldn't let him down and that we'd fight our hardest,) she thought, (I can't just let him get hurt like this.)
Kara slowly got up and turned to face Raishinshi with a determined expression. She got onto her toes and started to twirl again towards Raishinshi. The purple Angel tensed as the ballet Angel drew closer. Raishinshi then charged at Kara and drew back his fist. But as soon as he punched, Kara spun to her right, avoiding the punch. Raishinshi turned and punched out again. This time, Kara hopped backwards to avoid the punch, then she advanced again. Raishinshi jumped back to avoid her spin kick and ran forward, aiming a high right kick for his opponents face. But Kara simply spun around him, avoiding the kick.
"Looks like Kara is living up to her name as the 'Layer Ballerina'!" the announcer told the cheering crowd, "hardly any Angel is able to land a blow on her, not with those twirls she does! Looks like Raishinshi's hit another dilemma!"
Kiyoko grit her teeth. Raishinshi did the same and charged at Kara again. He threw a right and left hook back-to-back, but Kara merely twirled backwards to avoid them. Raishinshi executed a spin kick to her face, but the ballet Angel simply front-flipped over his head. Raishinshi turned, looking a bit uncertain again.
(Even when I attack, I can hardly hit her,) Kiyoko thought, (maybe I shouldn't fight her. Maybe, if I keep dodging-)
("You'd think they'd go easy on you, you're just a beginner," Ken had pointed out one day.
"That would be fighting half-heartedly," Takumi had replied, "that's not the proper way to play Angelic Layer.")
Kiyoko's eyes widened again.
(No, I can't hold back, I have to attack or Raishinshi'll just be hurt more,) she thought, a blockade that had been in front of her slowly evaporating away, (I don't want him to be hurt. I don't!)
Hatoko noticed, from the visual on the Box Screen, that Kiyoko was slowly appearing more calm.
(She's slowly realizing what she's doing wrong,) she thought, (but she has to unlock one more thing.)
Back on the Layer, Kara was advancing again, running this time. Raishinshi got into a stance as his opponent approached. He leapt forward and kicked forward with his right leg. Kara, as expected, spun away and to her left..........which was Raishinshi's right. He quickly brought his right leg down besides him, spun around backwards, and brought his left leg around in a reverse spin kick. His heel struck Kara in the stomach, causing her to cry out silently, and fall to the Layer.
"Kara!" Junko cried, seeing her Angel fall.
The announcer stared.
"W-Wow!" he cried, "he hit her! Newbie Yume Kiyoko managed to finally land a blow on the 'Layer Ballerina!"
The audience cheered.
"ALRIGHT, KIKIYOKO!" Tamayo cheered, "KNOCK'ER FLAT!!"
Kotaro sweat-dropped as Kiyoko's friends clapped at her small victory.
"That's it Kiyoko!" Tamiko cheered.
In the corner of the West waiting room, in the doorway to be more precise, Toho stood watching the match between the two friends.
(Finally landed one,) she thought.
Back in the Layer area, Kiyoko was watching her Angel intently. The timer was at 3 min. and Kara had been knocked to 85%. She still had nagging worries in her mind that still got in her way.
(Is she mad at me?) she thought, (I hit Kara pretty hard. I hope she isn't mad.)
Raishinshi got into a fighting position as Kara advanced again.
("I'm gonna become a star Deus too!" she had cried, "I'm going to win all my matches, just like you Daddy! I promise!")
Kiyoko blinked as she remembered the promise that had allowed her to fight through many matches. Raishinshi started to run towards Kara as well, going a bit faster than normal. Junko was surprised at his speed, as was Kara. The boy Angel leapt at Kara, who back-flipped away just as Raishinshi's right foot came down on the place she was just standing. But Raishinshi pushed off again as he landed, lunging for Kara, who had just come out of her flip, and turned to her opponent. Another thought entered Kiyoko's mind at that time.
("Kara and I really just play for fun. Angelic Layer is basically a game. The goal is to have fun," Junko had said as they had walked to the Stadium together.)
Kara quickly leaned back with her right leg, arms out to her sides, and kicked her right leg forward in a ballet-styled kick, like the move she had used yesterday. Raishinshi narrowed his eyes and landed his right foot on the Layer, brought his left leg up, and wrapped around the blue and pink Angels' leg. With a twist of his body, Raishinshi caused himself and Kara to fall with a thud on the Layer, stomach first. Junko gasped.
"Wait-a-go, Kiyoko!" Ken cheered.
Takumi watched in surprise.
"Higure used that move in the first match," he stated.
Yuri nodded.
"Yes, and that move she used earlier was from the match with Vasquez," she added, "Kiyoko is an excellent mimic."
Back on the Layer, both Angels slowly got to their feet. Kara turned to Raishinshi with a steady expression. And Raishinshi turned to her and Junko, and pretty much all of Kiyoko's friends, were surprised to see that he was smiling a kind smile. His eyes were clear and bright again, just like his Deus'.
"I'm sorry Junko-chan."
Junko looked up at Kiyoko. She was surprised to see that her friend was smiling, cheerfully, just like her Angel. Her eyes were no longer troubled behind her Goggles, they were clear and bright as well.
"I'm sorry that I fought half-heartedly," Kiyoko continued, "I was worried that you would hate me for hurting Kara. But, then I remembered what you said to me and the others earlier. Angelic Layer is a game and the object is to have fun with your Angel. I'm.........I'm not going to hold back anymore. I want to have fun with you, and Raishinshi, and Kara. I love Angelic Layer and I want to do my best playing it."
Hatoko smiled. Kiyoko now understood. A ways away, Saburo raised an eyebrow. Back in the Layer area, Junko said nothing for a minute, but then smiled.
"Thank you for being honest with me, Kiyoko-chan," she said, "I'm sorry if I fought you too hard. I was mad because I thought you were going easy on me, but now I see that you were only worried. I want to have fun too. Angelic Layer 'is' a wonderful game that you should play with your friends. I hope we can have a good game."
Both friends smiled at one another. Up in the balcony, Sai gave a rare smile.
(Now the match will really start,) she thought.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Icchan smiled at what he saw on the visual screen. Ogata, however, was confused.
"How come she's fighting better than before?" he asked to himself, more than to anyone else.
"She's got her faith back."
Both Icchan and Ogata turned to see a dark-haired boy with navy eyes staring at them and then looked up at the visual screen.
"She's finally realized the true meaning of Angelic Layer," Mihara Oujiro said, smiling, "how, I don't know, but she's now ready to begin the match for real this time."
Normally, Icchan would snap at his little brother for sneaking up on him, but his words were true, and he simply smiled at his brother.
"You're right there, she 'has' discovered the meaning, no doubt with help of her friend," he said, turning back to the visual screen, "we ought to see Kiyoko and Raishinshi's true abilities now."
Ogata looked doubtful as he glanced at the timer.
"But," he objected, "the timer is almost at 1 min. How's she gonna make a comeback?"
Icchan grinned at over at his assistant.
"Oh ye of little faith, Ogata," he joked, "just watch and you'll see the spirit of a true Deus."
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Back on the Layer, Raishinshi and Kara were facing each other, smiling in tandem with their Deus'. Everyone was waiting for what they guessed would be the final attack. As soon as the timer hit 1 min., both Angels took off running at one another.
(I'm sorry I held you back Raishinshi,) Kiyoko apologized, watching her Angel run on the Layer, (I won't anymore. I want to fight with you so we can play Angelic Layer. So we can shine together on the Layer!)
(Kara, I'm so glad Kiyoko is back at full spirits,) Junko thought, smiling, (I just know that they'll make it to the Kanto Prelims. And we'll cheer for them the whole way!)
As soon as they were both close enough, Kara executed a high right kick aimed for Raishinshi's head. But Raishinshi leaned backwards, allowing the kick to whiz overhead. And he continued to lean backwards until he placed both hands flat on the Layer under him.
"Huh?" Junko said, confused at the action.
Kara stared in confusion as Raishinshi lifted his legs up into the air into a handstand. He looked up at Kara, giving her a smile, before-
Crack!
Raishinshi swept his legs between his arms and kicked out with his right leg. His foot smashed into Kara as Raishinshi completed his backflip, a trail of white-purple light followed his foot as he landed. Kara, on the other hand, cried out silently as she flew up into the air. Junko gasped. Kara sailed towards the force field and exited the Layer. She landed on the ground with a loud click. The buzzer sounded and the timer stopped at 40 seconds...............and the crowd went wild.
"WOAH!! That was Light-Speed Suzuka's special attack, the 'Rolling Thunder'!" the announcer shouted, "very few beginners can pull THAT move off! Newbie Angel Raishinshi has defeated the 'Layer Ballerina' in one swift move!"
Raishinshi's picture flashed across the screen. Mrs. Yume was the most ecstatic of Kiyoko's group while Ken and Tamayo were the loudest.
"YES! SHE DID IT!" Ken whooped.
"KIKIYOKO KICKED BUTT!!" Tamayo cheered, punching the air with her fist.
Misaki, Kotaro, Takumi, and Yuri all clapped their hardest at Kiyoko's victory. Aya stared in surprise at the Layer. Hatoko turned to her.
"There's no such thing as luck in Angelic Layer," she said, "it all comes down to faith."
Up on the balcony, Ringo was whooping as loud as she could while Arisu stared down at Raishinshi in disbelief.
"I can't believe he actually won," she muttered.
Sai gave a small laugh.
"It's never wise to underestimate an Angel," she said, remembering her fight with Hikaru.
As Junko got down from her Angel Chair as it went to ground level, Kiyoko ran up, both Raishinshi and Kara in her hands. She held Kara out to Junko.
"I don't know if she's hurt badly or not," she said, "I'm sorry if I damaged her badly, Junko-chan."
Junko looked at Kiyoko and took Kara into her hands. She looked down at Kara, but then looked up at Kiyoko with a smile.
"It's okay, Kiyoko-chan," she assured, "I had fun. The important thing in Angelic Layer is to have fun."
Kiyoko smiled, shyly, and nodded.
Back in the West waiting room, Tamiko smiled at the TV as it showed Kiyoko and Junko hugging each other in a friendship hug. She looked down at Youzen and hugged him herself. In the doorway, Toho cracked a smile.
"Not bad," she whispered, "not bad at all."
*Uh.........konya mo mata.........*
Saburo watched the two girls part for their waiting rooms.
*........hakanai hoshi zora*
"Looks like you came through after all, newbie," he stated.
*Uh.........hikaru hoshi ni..........*
As Kiyoko headed down the pink hallway, she smiled down at Raishinshi. He was still smiling, happily.
*........negai o kakeru kara*
"Thank you for hanging in there, Raishinshi," she said, gently hugging her brave Angel.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Whew! Took me a while to figure out the fight scene for this fic. I'm not too good at writing internal conflicts (sounds ironic in my case). I got inspired by watching episode 9 with Tsubaki and Maria. I hope you like it, tell me if I screwed something up. Next time, someone is out for revenge, but who? Stay tuned and you'll see. Please R&R, no flames!