"Nice ball," said Kiyoko cheerfully behind Yuta. The boy turned and glared at Kiyoko who walked to him. Yuki was hiding behind a pole and was sneaking a look from the pole.
"Who are you and why do you keep following me?! Didn't I tell you to leave me alone?" asked Yuta in an annoyed voice. Kiyoko was suddenly clinging to Yuta's leg in chibi with a river of tears flowing from her eyes.
"Aww, Yuuta-kun doesn't like me!" whined Kiyoko. Yuta sweatdropped and tried to pry the girl off him but to no avail. Finally, after Kiyoko was sad to see that her wailing wasn't working like it usually did, she pushed Yuta away and ran off in tears. Yuta had question marks on his face and was about to turn back to his game when he heard another person walk to him.
"What is it now?" asked Yuta turning again but stepping back when he saw it was Yuki. She looked shyly at him while Yuta had a suspicious and angry look on his face. "Weren't you with that other weirdo?" Yuki nodded slowly before approaching.
"Your game is starting soon," said Yuki shyly, "Ano, I heard from someone that you were Fuji-chan's little brother so I wanted to-" "If that's all that you have to say then you better leave now!" snapped Yuta, Yuki flinched back in surprise but walked to him and handed him the same small satchel she had given the other Seigaku players.
"Well, I just wanted to give this to you," said Yuki with a blush, "When I saw you I thought that you didn't talk to Fuji-chan much but I didn't have the courage to ask why. I didn't really know what to give you but I hope you like it! By the way, your match is starting soon." Yuki ran out and was blushing when she rounded a corner. She was about to go back to the game when a hand pushed he back and Kiyoko was in Yuki's face. She pulled on the other girl's cheeks and grinned evilly.
"So, you were after Yuta all along, eh Yuki?" asked Kiyoko grinning evilly as Yuki whined holding her cheeks.
"Ouch Kiyoko! That hurt!" cried Yuki rubbing her reddening cheeks while Kiyoko stuck out her tongue.
"Well you shouldn't have been flirting with Yuta," reasoned Kiyoko with a shrug.
"I was not!" objected Yuki before pointing an accusing finger, "And why are you mad? What about Ryoma!" Kiyoko shrugged.
"Well it isn't like I can resist a cute face like Yuta's!" said Kiyoko hugging her jacket and jumping up and down before smiling at Yuki, "Isn't he just so adorable? I just want to hug him!" Yuki sweatdropped before sneaking past the girl and going back to the game. By now Yuta had gotten to the court and the game was about to start. Yuki was distressed to see that the boy didn't wear the satchel she had given him but sighed and pretended not to care. Kiyoko meanwhile was yawning boredly since she wasn't playing. "Tennis isn't fun unless I'm in it," said Kiyoko. Rei whacked the girl with a racket.
Eventually, Ryoma won the game and Kiyoko cheered. She looked worriedly at Yuta who felt like he had lost everything. She was about to go to him when Ryoma stopped her. Kiyoko looked at him in surprise.
"You shouldn't go to him right now," said Ryoma before leaving. Kiyoko had hearts in her eyes wondering. She had thought that Ryoma had shown a hint of care but he just didn't want Kiyoko bothering anyone. Yuki sighed but then noticed Fuji's serious expression. She went to him but he ignored her. Yuki looked away and sat down hurt. Suddenly, Eiji placed a comforting hand on Yuki's head.
"Don't worry about it, Yuki-chan," said Eiji grinning. Yuki gave the boy a wane smile and watched the game. Fuji didn't even shake Mizuki's hand as he went to his side of the court. Mizuki just shrugged and grinned. He was totally in control of the game. You could now tell who the total mastermind of the matches were. Mizuki had done his research well and had worked especially hard on getting Fuji's information.
"Ganbatte Fuji-chan!" shouted Yuki clinging to the wire covering the whole court. Fuji grinned and returned Mizuki's shot. His eyes were now open and you could see his cold blue eyes. Kiyoko was shivering and hiding behind Rei. Sometimes Fuji just creeped her out. The last ball resounded on the ground and Yuki opened the tennis door to let him out. Fuji went to Yuta and Mizuki was still on the tennis floor still wondering how he could have possibly lost.
Fuji walked to Yuta who glared at the boy but weakened with Fuji's ever present smile. Then Yuki noticed the satchel she had given the boy in his pocket. Yuki was smiling to herself until she felt something pulling on her cheeks.
"Kiyoko!" cried out Yuki scoldingly while Kiyoko just grinned menacingly.
"Yuki!" cried out Kiyoko in the same voice that Yuki had said to Kiyoko. "Don't think you can touch Yuta you little butthead. You have Fuji." Yuki countered saying that Kiyoko also had Ryoma. Now the day had ended and Yuki happily shook Taki's hand. Kiyoko goggled at Taki's twin brother Atsushi. His red bandana tempted her greatly. Now the girl walked to him and pulled on the bandana. Taki laughed and whispered something to her brother. The boy sighed and handed Kiyoko his bandana. Kiyoko cheered happily.
"Come on, Kiyoko! If you don't catch up we'll leave you behind!" shouted Yuki behind her, "Rei asked me to train you while she has a cold so you have to come with me, okay?" Kiyoko scowled but sighed and followed Yuki on her morning run. It was fine running but Yuki did it with her racket. A familiar sound echoed to the girls' left and they walked to the sound. There was Ryoma reading a magazine while Tomo and Sakuno were practicing.
"Hey Ryoma! What are you doing here?" asked Kiyoko to the boy cheerfully. Tomo scowled at the girl who stuck out her tongue. Ryoma had a look of relief on his face and walked over to her. Yuki grinned and pushed Kiyoko to the boy.
"I better get going," said Yuki, "I promised Fuji I'd meet him at the movies today and now I have time to get ready." Kiyoko looked at Yuki in surprise and scratched the back of her head.
"I didn't know you were going to meet up with Fuji," said Kiyoko. Yuki just waved goodbye and now Kiyoko was left with Ryoma, Tomo, and Sakuno. "Hey, Ryoma, why are you here so early in the morning?" Ryoma pointed at the two girls behind him.
"Dad tricked me into helping them with their training," said Ryoma. Kiyoko's eyes glittered and she clung to Ryoma, shaking him eagerly as she jumped up and down happily.
"Ryoma! Will you help me too?" asked Kiyoko, "I'm supposed to be training today so I was wondering if you could train me since Yuki left me." Ryoma shrugged and nodded even though Kiyoko didn't need as much help as the two other girls did. Kiyoko cheered and took out something from her pocket. "Yes! I can finally use this!" Before Ryoma could ask what it was, Kiyoko grinned evilly. "Well, you remember Atsushi's bandana that he gave me? I decided to start using it! Like my new accessory?" Kiyoko wrapped the bandana around her head. Ryoma sweatdropped.
Kiyoko took a spot next to Tomo on the wall and it was plain to see that she was playing considerably better than both girls put together. Ryoma was now playing next to Kiyoko who grinned. Then a large ball flew past the wall and far away. Kiyoko looked at Sakuno who had thrown it.
"Ehh, gomen! I'll get it!" volunteered the girl. Kiyoko sweatdropped. She had thrown it. Of course she would get the ball. After a few minutes, Kiyoko tapped on her foot impatiently. It was taking way too long. Even though Kiyoko didn't particularly like Sakuno, it was wrong to leave them behind if they were hurt. Besides, the training session was for the other girls and both were missing. Kiyoko grabbed Ryoma and dragged the boy behind her. Then they saw the practice grounds of a school tennis team. The duo was surprised to see Sakuno kneeling looking at a multiple amount of tennis balls around her. Kiyoko had question marks on her face and asked what was going on. "Ano," began Sakuno, "I'm looking for my ball but it dropped." Kiyoko gave the girl a look and wondered how she could have found it but Sakuno went up to her. "Ryoma-sama's drawing is on it," whispered the girl. Kiyoko hid in her laughter but then frowned at a man who stood in front of her.
"Can I help you, punk wannabe?" asked Kiyoko giving the man the middle finger. The man looked at her in surprise.
"What the hell?! You just flipped me off!" cried out the man. He approached Kiyoko threateningly but the girl put up her hands to fight. The boy sweatdropped but then just moved away. "Weirdo," muttered the boy. Kiyoko glared threateningly at the man and glared at him defensively.
"What? What? You wanna take this outside?" asked the girl. Tomo sweatdropped and informed Kiyoko that everyone was outside. Kiyoko scowled and told her that that wasn't the point. Ryoma served a tennis ball to swerve the boy's attention.
"Oi," said Ryoma throwing the can of Ponta he had bought away coolly, "If I beat all of you, will you give me your tennis balls?" The man looked at him disbelievingly. Kiyoko laughed.
"You don't have to if you're afraid," said Kiyoko teasingly. That was all the boys needed. They assembled one after the other in front of Ryoma. It was suicide. If Ryoma missed just once, he lost. Kiyoko leaned on a chair to watch the match. Ryoma went up to serve and Kiyoko smiled to herself. It wasn't even worth doing the twister serve to such weaklings. Ball after ball and Ryoma had no trouble beating them. Few stood out and by the end of the tennis game, the other team was panting heavily and Ryoma had just finished his warm up. Ryoma went outside the tennis court and was greeted by a gleeful hug from Kiyoko and a peck on the cheek. Ryoma was blushing while Tomo was glaring. Soon, Ryoma's dad came to pick up Ryoma and offered to give the girls a ride. Kiyoko declined saying she really had to train but she did wink at Ryoma before leaving. Yuki sweatdropped when she had come home that day to see Kiyoko prancing around the room with Rei unable to stop her because of her cold.
Kiyoko and Yuki were happily dressing into their tennis outfits the next day. They were taking their time getting ready since Inui was preparing a particularly hard training sessions. Yuki was laughing hilariously when Kiyoko had wrapped Atsushi's headband around her head. Yuki was wondering if Kiyoko was really weird enough to wear an accessory from another team. Yuki pulled teasingly on the band making Kiyoko stick out her tongue. Finally, Yuki let go, and Kiyoko was just about to march out angrily when she tripped over on the red band. When they reached the tennis court, they found a cluster of regulars around Ryoma, Kachiro (mushroom head), and Arai. Yuki was trying to muffle her laughter when she saw Arai's bruised eye. Kiyoko was going "aww" at Arai pityingly. Then Kiyoko turned surprised to Ryoma who was given bandages for his face.
"Oh my god, Ryoma!" cried out Kiyoko running to the boy worriedly. Ryoma found himself being hugged to Kiyoko's 'chest'. "What horrible luck! To be the one freshman that got hurt! I'll beat him up for you Ryoma, okay?" Yuki sweatdropped and Ryoma didn't get a chance to tell Kiyoko that Kachiro was hurt too. Kachiro was weeping while Rei blandly asked.
"What's Kachiro, then? An elementary school student?" asked Rei. That made Kachiro cry even harder until Yuki whacked the boy lightly with her tennis racket saying that boys shouldn't cry, like her darling Fuji. And now Yuki clung to Fuji with hearts in her eyes while Fuji gave the girl his ever present smile. Yuki swooned and now everyone sweatdropped. "But you said that someone from another school came here looking for Ryoma?" Kiyoko was surprised and looked at the boy wondering if he had gotten into trouble with someone once again.
"Maybe he saw him play," suggested Yuki helpfully, "Like in the old samurai movies when one kendo swordsman is driven by pure desire to fight someone strong. To test their samurai way to the limit in a strive to become the most powerful swordsman!" Now Yuki had stars in her eyes while the whole team sweatdropped. Kiyoko, however, clasped her hands onto Yuki's and both were dreaming of Ryoma and Fuji in sexy samurai clothing while drooling. But now Arai went forward.
"That guy did come looking for Echizen," commented the boy, "And he did give him a challenge." Yuki was gloating now and sighed contentedly. Kiyoko had tears in her eyes of how popular Ryoma had gotten. But the girl looked away. Someday she would have to play against him. Then Tezuka came up and told them it was time for practice. Yuki went up to Tezuka after she had finished stretching with Eiji.
"Tezuka-buchou," said Yuki bowing shyly, "Ano, I know that Kiyoko already has Ryoma as her permanent partner, but do you have any idea who my permanent partner is? I mean, if it isn't any trouble." Tezuka looked at Yuki expressionlessly before motioning for Fuji to stop and come to where he and Yuki were. Yuki's eyes widened hoping that Tezuka was thinking what she was thinking...Yes he was! Tezuka told the genius that he would be Yuki's permanent partner now and that the two were to follow Eiji's and Oishi's lead when they trained together. "Yes!" cheered Yuki hugging the boy tightly. Later that day, Kiyoko, Rei, and Yuki were on their way home when Momo and Ryoma grabbed them and pulled them aside.
"Um..." began Kiyoko when Ryoma was holding her tightly away from view, "It's not that I don't mind you holding me like this Ryoma but what are we doing?" Rei on the other hand did mind Momo holding her and broke free smoothly. Yuki looked from the hand on her shoulder to Momo who was holding her and broke free the painful way. At least painful for Momo. The boy cried out in surprise when Yuki stuck out her tongue after nearly breaking Momo's fingers. The tall boy was about to run after her when Eiji and Oishi were walking their way. Yuki hid behind the motherly Oishi and looked teasingly at Momo from where she stood.
"What are we doing?" asked Eiji hiding behind the post with Rei, Kiyoko, and Ryoma who were following Takashi, "Why are we following Taka-san?" Rei and Kiyoko clamped their hands over the boy before explaining that Taka was going to meet up with a girl. Oishi was fretting worriedly and hoped that Taka had protection. The girls tried to smother their laughter behind their hands as they sat in an ice cream booth where Taka and the woman was in clear view. Kiyoko ordered the largest thing on the menu and Yuki had coconut. They munched happily while the boys both spied and nibbled. A shadow suddenly approached and Kiyoko tensed. It was as if she had felt another animal walk into her territory. A large boy with silver hair and droll yellow eyes was walking and Kiyoko felt Ryoma stiffen next to her.
A foot came out of the booth causing the boy to nearly trip. Ryoma stood up and grinned in a challenging way at the boy Taka suddenly called "Akutsu!" Ryoma aimed his racket in Akutsu's direction while the other boys were open mouthed. What was the ochibi thinking? "I accept your challenge, remember my name," ordered Ryoma. Akutsu looked amused and shrugged off the hand that the woman Taka had been with put on his shoulder. He told Taka to stay out of his business and left. It wasn't until later on that the others heard thatI the woman Taka was with was Akutsu's mother. Kiyoko looked at the tall Seigaku regular suspiciously and didn't look as if she believed him. Yuki was ready to go into another session of melodrama.
"No! You're not going to beat me this time Echi-kun!" shouted Kiyoko as she breezed by the boy. Rei pressed the stopclock and nodded approvingly. Less than 45 seconds. Yuki was happily strolling along with Fuji and Rei stood self-consciously next to Tezuka. Eiji and Momo were still teasing Taka about the woman yesterday. All of the Seigaku members were practicing and the race was getting quicker. The first years had dropped out except for Mizuno. Ryoma lowered his hat as he continued to run. The boy wasn't even out of breath and Kiyoko was determined to overcome him.
After awhile, Inui had told them that the Seigaku members had to run under forty seconds or else they would have to drink Inui's Refined and Remixed Penal-Tea in Caffeine Free form. Yuki's face darkened and nearly turned blue while Kiyoko looked as if she had just eaten a lemon. They sped faster and the non regulars were now out of the running. Yuki was racing past Kaidoh who hissed. She refused to drink the tea...even if it was caffeine free. A figure suddenly knocked Yuki away and Taka ran by with smoke coming out of his mouth and the shouts of "BURNING!" in the air. Kiyoko wore spirals. Ryoma was whistling as he ran casually behind him. When the group collapsed in a heap on the floor, Tezuka ordered them up. They would be doing practice matches that day. Murmurs of surprise came from the half-dead Seigaku tennis members. It would just be between the regulars.
The match-ups were: Ryoma vs. FujiEiji vs. KiyokoKaidoh vs. TakaOishi vs. YukiTezuka vs. Momo
The participants looked at each other. Kiyoko and Eiji had electricity between them. It was time to decide who was the more genki player. Yuki bowed respectfully to Oishi but she inwardly resolved to kick the boy's butt to the curb. Fuji and Ryoma were first up. Everyone wondered who would win; the genius or the prince. The game started and Ryoma did the twister serve with his left hand. He would take no chances against Fuji. Kiyoko and Yuki looked at each other wondering which of their boys would win. The third year returned Ryoma's serve with the swallow return. Yuki cheered but it was Kiyoko's spotlight when Ryoma scored the point. Yuki's cheeks puffed into twin balloons and everyone sweatdropped as both girls turned from each other with a 'hmph'. Rei rolled her eyes and was relieved when Tezuka ordered Kiyoko and Eiji to the next court.
Twin fires burned in Kiyoko's eyes and Eiji twirled his racket with ease and skill. Kiyoko pointed at Eiji in an accusing form. "Today we'll see who's the more spirited one Eiji-senpai!" said Kiyoko as she skipped gleefully into the court and held out her racket, "Smooth or Rough?" Eiji picked Smooth and Kiyoko pouted when Eiji won. She shrugged and stood ready at the baseline while Eiji served his "Kikumaru Beam!". The ball sped past Kiyoko who grinned. She would catch the next one with ease. "Take that!" shouted Kiyoko hitting the ball gracefully. The first years exclaimed. The Dancing Dragon Serve?! The score was fifteen-all. Tezuka ordered the Kaidoh/Taka pair. Rei tossed Taka his racket and he immediately fired up.
Meanwhile, the second years opened their mouths in awe when Fuji administered his Higumi Otoshi. The ball fell behind Ryoma whose eyes widened slightly. Yuki was doing a dance in the background. It seemed as if Ryoma was wasting his time as he kept letting Fuji do his Brown Bear attack. Kiyoko looked at Eiji in frustration as he continued to return her serves with his Acrobatic skill. She again did the Dancing Dragon Serve. That was the one attack Eiji was having trouble returning. If she did it consecutively, she would win. Kaidoh hissed as he did Boomerang Snake. Again it missed. Inui shook his head as he observed. Tezuka ordered Oishi and Yuki.
Yuki made a large "HOHOHOHO!" behind her hand as her eyes sparkled. Oishi had multiple sweatdrops behind him. "Today's the day you lose Oishi-senpai!" announced Yuki as fire burned behind her and she looked like a female Satan with horns and all. Rei looked peeved since Yuki was taking her demonic edge. "Take my Hurricane Serve!" shouted the girl who let it fly with much power. Oishi used his moon volley. Finally it was Tezuka's and Momo's game. The players already knew the result but they wondered how badly Momo will fare against the captain.
It was anybody's game in the first court. Ryoma had found a way to break Fuji's Brown Bear. Kiyoko made the V for victory when she lead against Eiji who was frowning. Kaidoh kept losing his points since his Boomerang Snake wouldn't go in the court. Sweat trickled down Yuki's forehead as she returned Oishi's ball. Momo laid on the floor breathing heavily as he put a hand out as if to catch the sun. He remembered what Tezuka had told him. His leg was still slightly injured. It lowere his strength and Tezuka icily told the boy that it would factor into their game heavily. Finally Kiyoko cheered triumphantly as she won against Eiji who was moping gloomily. Yuki was doing her evil laugh when she had beaten Oishi and the two were doing a hearty good jig until they remembered that both their boys were fighting against each other.
The game still continued and excitement was mounting. Just then it began to rain and Fuji and Ryoma were still playing. No one moved until Tezuka ordered all games to be stopped. The boys' ears were deaf to their captain's command. Finally, Rei served a ball going between their game and forcing the game ball to fall to the side. She ignored the apprehensive look on Ryoma's face and the expressionless one on Fuji's. Yuki and Kiyoko were chanting "Boo!". The boys' attention was averted when they looked at Yuki and Kiyoko. Ryoma's cheeks were red and Fuji was trying to stifle a smile. Tezuka and the other boys were kind enough to look away as Rei pointed at their shirts which were soon getting wet. Rei had fortunately worn a jacket but the water was seeping through the girls' shirts and their bras were partly visible. Yuki and Kiyoko shrieked before flying to the dressing rooms.
Chapter 7
Kiyoko slammed her fists onto her desk in surprise when she had heard Horio the next day in class. An had told Momo who had told the first years that Fudoumine had lost against Akutsu's team Yamabuki. Apparently, the team except for Tachibana had been injured in a taxi car accident and they had still continued to play against Yamabuki without telling the Captain Tachibana. They had forfeited. "They can't have forfeited!" shouted Kiyoko, "The little guy never quits! My dreams have been shattered. Kiyoko dramatically knelt to the floor and sighed.
Yuki rolled her eyes and gave Horio a bland stare. Kiyoko would be gloomy all day and she was stuck coping with it. Just then she brightened and nudged Ryoma telling him to cheer his doubles partner up. Ryoma only answered with "Mada Mada Dane" which made Yuki want to pound the twelve year old. Kiyoko was still gloomy and a cloud had formed over her head.
The next day, it was Seigaku vs. Saishimi. Kiyoko wasn't speaking to Ryoma since he hadn't been nice and helped her feel better when she was bummed. Yuki glanced up at Fuji who walked next to her and then smiled to herself. It was a good thing that Fuji was more perceptive than the very dense Ryoma. When they faced the other team, Inui reminded them that the school would be extremely tough since their practice was so hard that they couldn't even walk by the end of the day. Yuki sweatdropped. To their surprise, the men's doubles and singles quit immediately yet they were still forced to play doubles. "I refuse to play with Ryoma-kun!" said Kiyoko shaking her head firmly, "I want Horio"
Everyone facefaulted and exclaimed a large "Eh?!" Horio gulped largely when Kiyoko looked at him with stars in her eyes. Yuki added that she wanted to play with Kachiro. Mizuno was moping in the background since he was the only first year not chosen. Ryuzaki looked at the two girls closely with a strange stare on her face before finally consenting. Tezuka sighed and added his affirmative when Rei made an offhand comment that it was their win anyway and the first years could use some practice. "Yay!" cheered the girls before handing the boys their jackets and lending them the spare rackets in their bags. Kachiro was having trouble carrying Yuki's heavy duty racket until she handed him her lightweight one. Kiyoko and Horio were up first. A poser punk wannabe girl was on the court wiith a boy in a basketball outfit.
The girl, Reika, scowled at Kiyoko who frowned back. She was the original and only gothic punk in this story! Reika looked ready to pound the short Seigaku member to the ground. Horio was trembling and Kiyoko giggled. Whatever happened to the two years of tennis experience? Kiyoko returned the ball with ease and scored a point. She cheered while Horio had dots for eyes before breathing in relief. He had forgotten how good a player Kiyoko was. What was the worry when he wouldn't even have to do any of the work? Fuji turned when he felt Momo and Eiji looking at him. They were whispering and looking from Ryoma to Fuji to Yuki to Kachiro. Eiji popped up next to Yuki who was whistling boredly to herself. "Yuki-chan, why didn't you pick FUji? Could it be you prefer boys your age?" When Yuki heard, she laughed out loud. Fuji had creepy, shining eyes aimed at Kachiro who shivered in fear.
"C'mon Horio!" shouted Kiyoko as she again returned the ball, "Whatever happened with your two years of tennis experience?" Except for the opposing team, no one could see the evil mischievous expression that Kiyoko held on her face. Yuki could sense it and shivered. She hated it when Kiyoko was exceptionally creepy. When Kiyoko was one game away from winning, she stopped. The ball went past Horio who looked at Kiyoko in surprise. Only one more point and they would win! Horio was getting cocky but now he was wondering why Kiyoko wasn't playing. The girl stuck her tongue out. "Ne, Horio has to do work too! I won't play anymore! You finish the game"
Everyone facefaulted while Reika again served and scored. They were now only two games behind Horio and Kiyoko. It was now Reika's serve. Horio ran for the ball but missed. A black aura came from the Seigaku side of the court and Kiyoko next to him. They hated to lose. At the break, Kiyoko pointed an accusing finger at the unibrowed boy. "Oy Horio! You better be doing half the work or else," ordered the girl, "Use your two years tennis experience and play a good doubles game or else you'll never be a regular member!" Horio looked surprised but then nodded. Reika again served and Horio returned. In the end, they won and Reika scowled at Kiyoko before turning away.
Next were Yuki and Kachiro. The girl gave him an encouraging glance as he walked past. They were going against the captain and a girl in glasses. In the end, they won. Their next match would be against Yamabuki. "Kyaa! Sengoku-senpai?!" cried Yuki in surprise when he appeared on their sdie of the court. The redhead winked at Kiyoko and Yuki. Tomo and Sakuno had been scared of Sengoku harassing them but they weren't as cute and sexy as Kiyoko or curvaceous like Yuki. Tezuka was asked to draw lots with Minami Kentaro, the Yamabuki captain. They were to do a Misc. challenge game where lots were randomly drawn to decide who was against who. For mixed doubles, every name was dumped in.
First up were Yuki and Kiyoko against Akutsu and Sengoku. Sengoku had a perverted looko n his face when he glanced at Yuki. The girl sweatdropped when he asked, "Yuki-chan! Will you go on a date with me if we win?" Yuki rolled her eyes.
"Sure she will," andswered Kiyoko cheerfully for Yuki. Yuki had a vortex of evil behind her while Kiyoko made an effort to smile. "What? It's no like we're going to losoe!" Yuki didn't answer, but she pointed a finger at Sengoku who had an even more perverted look on his face. She called Kiyoko a devil who made evil contracts. Kiyoko pouted. "I'm not the devil! He is!" cried Kiyoko while pointing an accusing finger at Akutsu who growled. Rei tossed two balls at Yuki and Kiyoko before she ordered them to get back to the game at hand. Yuki served her Hurricane Serve which Akutsu smashed back. It went past Kiyoko whose eyes widened in surprise. Akutsu looked smugly at Kiyoko who frowned. She returned his smash and the ball would have landed at the corner if Sengoku hadn't been there. Yuki returned and the score was 15 all. When it was time to change courts, the girls were panting heavily. The Seigaku boys looked worried. Because of Akutsu's and Sengoku's physical structure, the boys were at an advantage against Yuki and Kiyoko. Sengoku was smiling and giving Yuki the peace symbol.
It was now Sengoku's serve and Yuki's jaw opened wide when he did her Hurricane Serve. Kiyoko had a furious expression on her face and the doubles pair looked at each other. "Yuki! Let's do the Kiyoko-Yuki Greatest Attack Ever!" Everyone was sweatdropping. Yuki nodded. She ran to get the next ball but, right when she was about to hit, Kiyoko appeared out of nowhere and returned the ball. The game was 3 to 2. In the end, Sengoku and Akutsu won, but they were shocked at how well the girls had done. It was a narrow game and the results might have been different if Yuki and Kiyoko had more attack power. Kiyoko ran out of the game majorly depressed while Yuki was satisfied with the pampering that Eiji and Fuji were giving her. Kiyoko suddenly ran into a boy who was running around frantically. He suddenly bumped into Kiyoko who laughed. The boy took off the green bandana that had fallen over his head and blinded him. "Eh? Kawaii!" gushed Kiyoko as she inspected the one who had run into her.
He looked surprised when he saw Kiyoko. "Oh! Are you lost little girl? I'm Taichi! I'll help you find your mom." Kiyoko pouted and her cheeks puffed up into large red balloons. She wasn't a child. By the time Kiyoko had gotten back, after losing her way a considerable amount of time, it was the end of the Akutsu and ryoma game. She was just in time to see the first year tennis prince's winning short. Her eyes widened when she saw the same golden glow on him that she saw on Tezuka. Yuki walked to Kiyoko with a visible frown on her face. Everyone was improving except for them. They had to get stronger.
Chapter 8
Yuki was surprised at Rei's statement. It was the first day of the ranking tournament and Kiyoko had made an offhand comment about how all three of the girls were supposed to be competing that day. "My mother was found at a hospital in Germany with amnesia," informed Rei in a choked, disbelieving voice, "She was the remaining survivor. I'm going to be leaving in two weeks"
The girls looked at her surprised. Both Yuki and Kiyoko looked at each other remembering that their own mothers were in the planed with Rei's mother, their aunt.
The tournament consisted of five blocks. Kiyoko's first match was against Arai. "Arai-kun! Prepare to lose!" shouted Kiyoko while serving. Ara sweatdropped. No way could he afford to lose against a first year. And a girl at that! However, though he did his best, he lost against the girl. The next match was against Yuki and Fuji. Yuki blushed when she got on the court next to him.
"Ganbatte Fuji-kun," murmured Yuki shyly. Fuji laughed and ruffled the girl's hair. Yuki leaned thoughtfully on the fence. She looked at her hands and then up at Kiyoko who approached. "Kiyoko," muttered the girl in surprise. Yuki had just lost her match against the boy she had a major crush on.
Kiyoko looked seriously at Yuki. "Both of us lost our matches." Yuki nodded silently. "After tomorrow, we must get better. We have to beat Hyotei with our own strength." Yuki answered with a definite yes and suggested that they practice in the mountains where she had trained. They had to improve their tennis style. Afterwards, Kiyoko cheered up considerably and the two made their way to the next matches. When Yuki saw Tomo on her court and Sakuno on Kiyoko's, both girls couldn't help but laugh.
"Oy! Sakuno and I will defeat the two of you so that we can stand next to Ryoma-sama!" shouted Tomo angrily when she saw them laughing. Yuki's eyes widened before getting a steely look as she approached the court. It was her serve and she slammed the ball onto Tomo's side. Because of the special circumstances surrounding the girls when they were accepted as part of the boys' team, Tezuka had to let other girls compete for the spot or else it would have looked like he was playing favorites.
Tomo looked at Yuki, shocked, but the girl grinned menacingly and readied for Yuki's next serve. "Playing for such a trivial reason," said Yuki to herself as the grip around her racket tightened, "Let me show you how to really play tennis!" Tomo dropped to the floor on her knees as she again failed to return Yuki's ball.
Sakuno made a surprised shout as she fell to the floor in an attempt to return Kiyoko's ball. As she tendered the cuts on her knee, Kiyoko approached her on the other side. "You are also fighting for Ryoma?" asked Kiyoko in an amused tone. Hald of her face was covered and the side that Sakuno could see held a look of mild disgust. "Tennis is for those with courage and perseverance. It is a game where you fight for the honor of victory, not to settle personal disputes." Kiyoko turned away from the girl, not bearing to look at Sakuno anymore, "Come back once you learn that."
Both Yuki and Kiyoko climbed into the taxi. The unfolding of the day's events replayed in their minds. Momo was no longer a regular and he had been crestfallen when Inui had beaten him. The data collector had surprised everyone witht he improvements he had made in one month. He had even for Tezuka to use his Tezuka zone! "Do you really think we should leave when everything's so messed up?" asked Kiyoko hesitantly. Earlier they had gone to Inui to ask for more of his weights. The girls had also left a not in Ryuzaki-sensei's office. Knowing the consequences of their actions, they had even put an IOU of 50 laps in Tezuka's mailbox. Kiyoko's jaw dropped when she saw where Yuki had practiced when she disappeared. "You were living in a villa while you were practicing"
Yuki grinned and nodded. When her parents had married, Yuki's grandmother had given them a mountain villa where Yuki's mother could train. The girl had heard of the villa from her father before she had left for Japan with Kiyoko. "It's got great facilities even though it's been a little over a decade. What do you think?" Kiyoko was muttering to herself wondering why Yuki hadn't brough the girl to the villa before. Yuki gave her a bland stare. "You would've broken everything in sight! Dad told me to take good care of this place."
"Why am I still not strong enough?" asked Kiyoko aloud in a fit of frustration as she looked at her blistered hands. She had been training with her racket while it had two five kg weights on the handles. Her arms were sore from swinging. Yuki collapsed next to her cousin. In order to prepare for her special skill, she had been swimming in the strong river currents all day with weights around her chest, ankles, and wrists. Kiyoko sat up and tossed Yuki her racket with a renewed vigor. "Yuki-chan! Let me have your best Hurricane Serve!" Yuki looked at Kiyoko. The girl was going to play while her racket was still weighed down? "I want to be fast and strong Yuki. So strong that I can return Taka-senpai's Wave Ball! Your serve is my first obstacle."
Sweat glisttened off both girls. They had finished their goals with time to spare. Yuki smiled to herself. Hers and Kiyoko's styles would definitely be able to stand against the boys. She was sure of it.
"Ne, Ochibi-kun," called Eiji to Ryoma on his way to afternoon practice, "Have you heard from Yuki-chan or Kiyoko-chan yet? Tomorrow we play against Hyotei and the girls aren't even her yet." Ryoma made an unexpected answer.
"Mada Mada Dane"
Whispers of wonder echoed on the courts between the members of and regulars. There were two girls speaking with Tezuka and wearing tennis uniforms. At first they had thought it was Yuki and Kiyoko but they were no longer sure since these girls were wearing sunglasses and their faces were hidden by hats. Just then, after Tezuka ahd finished his lecture and ordered the girls to fulfill their IOUs, Rei snatched the girls' glasses and hats with a roll of the eyes.
"Rei!" shouted Yuki and Kiyoko angrily. The boys' mouths flew open in surprise. Fuji had an even creepier smile and even Ryoma continued to stare. Kiyoko had dyed her hair a dark red and added black tips while Yuki cut her hair and turned the silky locks lavender.
Suddenly, Kiyoko appeared next to Ryoma and elbowed him slyly. "Ne, Ryoma-kun, do I look even more sexy now?" In answer, Ryoma lowered his hat and muttered 'Mada Mada Dane.' Yuki approached Fuji shyly and asked if she looked all right. Fuji just laughed but Eiji appeared and told the girl that she looked cute.
Chapter 9
"Yuki! How could leave without us and go with Fuji-senpai?!" exclaimed Kiyoko as she pouted at the other girl. It was the day of Seigaku's match against Hyotei. Earlier, Tezuka had called the girls' house and threatened 75 laps if they weren't at the courts in an hour. Rei and Kiyoko were nearly dead from running close to 20 mi and they headed for Yuki once they saw her. She tried hiding behind Fuji but Kiyoko had suddenly appeared and nearly given Yuki a heart attack.
After the razzing session, Yuki was skipping along happily and suddenly ran into Kabaji. "Itai!" cried the lavenderette in surprise as she rubbed her nose in apparent displeasure. "Hey! Watch were you're...going," said Yuki before oggling a boy with silver hair.
He snapped his fingers and a large man suddenly appeared. Yuki's hair stood on end. "Kabaji, get Hime and and Seki and tell them to get ready for their matches," ordered the boy. Kabaji soon moved away and the boy looked critically at Yuki as he walked around her, surveying the girl. "Aihara Yuki. Mixed Doubes for Seigaku," recited the Hyotei captain, "Seki and I will be in Double 1 today. You will lose if you fight us." Yuki looked surprised and answered with a furious and offended glare.
"Buchou-sama!" called Kiyoko to the captain, "Oishi-senpai isn't here yet and registration will be in a few minutes." Just then, Ryuzaki's phone rang and the coach frowned slightly. Everyone sweatdropped when they heard that Oishi had gone to the hospital to help a pregnant woman. Kiyoko smiled slyly and popped up next to Ryoma. "Unlike Echi-kun, Oishi-senpai is dependable and he wouldn't lie." The tennis genius lowered his hat.
Momo lowered the large flag he had been carrying. "I'll fetch him for us," volunteered the boy. Without another word, he ran off. Kiyoko pouted after he left and then gave the regulars a bland stare. Momo had been the supportive leader for Seigaku. Now that he was gone, the group consisted of freshmen.
"Speaking of which," commented Kiyoko when she bothered to look at the side and saw Tomo and Sakuno, "Why are you both wearing that? Doesn't Seigaku have real cheerleader outfits?" Tomo's cheeks puffed up as she answered that the school had already given the real cheer outfits to 2 others. Kiyoko smiled and had a triumphant glint in her eye.
Now Yuki walked back to the regulars in a daze. She took out a black binder and began flipping pages. "Keigo Atobe," recited Yuki, "Currently a rich middle schooler going into high school. He is an avid and amazing tennis player who participated in an All Stars camp in the previous year." Kiyoko had dots for eyes while asking where Yuki had gotten the binder. She sighed. "My dad researched potential ex-husbands for me after I rejected Keita. I know he means well but he needs to stop being so overprotective." Everyone facefaulted.
It was soon time for the Seigaku matches to begin. "Yuki-chan and I will try to hold at the game for as long as possible," promised Yuki cheerfully before dragging Ryoma to the court with her. She looked back at the boy. "Ne, Echi-kun, this'll be the only time you'll get to play so we should make the best of it"
"Ouis," answered Ryoma. He then surveyed the challengers. Seki and Ohtori looked tall when they stood opposite of Kiyoko and Ryoma. Seigaku had first serve and Ryoma went to the baseline. He served his Twist Serve which Seki immediately returned. Kiyoko lobbed it back and scored. The Seigaku Doubles players looked at each other smiling. They scored the first game but Hyotei didn't seem the least bit concerned. Yuki glanced at Atobe, who was on the other side of the court. The captain noticed her looking and gave her a wink. Yuki was speechless as she felt her cheeks redden. She remembered begging Tezuka to put her and Fuji in Doubles 1.
Hyotei had serve and Ohtori went to the baseline. Kiyoko was shocked when the ball slammed next to her and nearly sent her skirt flying at the amazing speed. Ryoma had an excited look in his face whenever a challenge came to him. Before he could return the ball, however, Kiyoko held up a hand. "Matte Ryoma-kun," pleaded Kiyoko. Her smile held over the boy att hat moment for it held mystery and intrigue. "I want to show you my new power"
A girl with lavender hair raised a bemused brow. She was going to use it so soon? As the ball made its way towards Kiyoko, she tilted her racket so that the ball flew upwards when she hit. Seki was ready to return but the racket flew out of her hands. The ball landed on the floor and kept spinning in the same place. Finally, it stopped and everyone wondered what had happened.
Glasses were soon donned and Yuki faced the Seigaku members. "Lightning Strike is a counter againsst fast serves or returns. It uses the force of gravity to accelerate the ball as it goes down. When Kiyoko tilts her racket, she forced the ball to stop spinning. The attack is formidable don't you think? It adds the force from the one who hit the ball to Kiyoko's own power." With six games to four, Kiyoko and Ryoma won the game.
Next up were Fuji and Yuki. Atobe stood and dark haired Hime followed after him. Seigaku served first and Yuki achieved an Ace. The next serve, Atobe returned and a rally soon ensued. Hyotei won the first game and Yuki glared at Atobe who raised an eyebrow and quirked his lips. "Tensai Fuji Syusuke and American Doubles Champion Aihara Yuki. I'd have thought you'd put up more of a fight. Why don't you show me your true powers?" Yuki answered curtly that the game had only just begun.
Her eyes glazed over as Hime went forward to serve. Yuki returned the ball with speed and precision at the corner of the court. At first, everyone thought it was nothing but again the ball hit the corner. When Hime went to hit it back, the ball stopped at impact and fell to the floor. "Water Flow no Jutsu," said Kiyoko to the others, "It's a high powered ball that falls to the floor on impact. The only trouble is that you need lithe and supple movements that follows air and water flows backed with strong muscles." Inui was writing in his data book and urging Kiyoko to continue. "Kyaa! Inui-senpai!" Just then, Momo appeared wearing the Seigaku jacket. Oishi had asked the second year to take his place. Tomo and Sakuno cheered making Kiyoko cover hear ears at the loud, screeching voices.
The game was nearing its end, and the score was tied. At the deciding game, Atobe unleashed his finishing smash, and it took everything that Fuji and Yuki had to fight. Hyotei won and Yuki was exhausted. Fuji was breathingi n quick gasps. Outwardly, Hyotei seemed composed but they were shocked. Atobe had been forced to use his killing technique and Yuki had taken off the weights too late. If the game had continued, the results would have been uncertain.
The matches were taking a momentary break and the girls were resting. They had done all they could so the rest was up to the boy. Now Kiyoko and Yuki looked at each other before sneaking off. When they reappeared, everyone facefaulted. "Jan jan! The true Seigaku cheerleaders are here!" announced Kiyoko. She wore a black cheerleading outfit with red trip and skull barrettes adorned her hair. Eiji was somewhat horrified while Tomo blandly told Kiyoko that she looked like a cheerleader come from the dead. Kiyoko answered that Tomo had absolutely no style anyway. Did she get her clothes from her grandmother's closet? Tomo was furious.
Next came Yuki in the regular cheerleading uniform. It was a blue pleated skirt with a white top that had Seigaku across the bottom. The only strange addition was that Yuki had added a brown bear sticker on her cheek. "Ganbatte Fuji-senpai!" called Yuki as a fire burned in her eyes. She was about to elbow Kiyoko when she found that she had gone. Kiyoko was nowhere to be seen.
Currently, Tomo, Sakuno, and Kiyoko were currently arguing when some Hyotei cheerleaders showed up and told Sakuno to get out of the way. Tomo frowned and ordered her friend to stay where she was. Soon a fight began with Kiyoko eating as she watched the catfight and shouted comments from the sidelines from time to time. When Yuki found the three, Kiyoko was already leaving. The fight had ended and the Hyotei girls had beat Tomo and Sakuno silly. However, they made the mistake of crossing with Kiyoko telling the girl to be careful and to change out of her tacky outfit before she could embarass herself. Yuki had dots for eyes when she heard Kiyoko repeat the words. Now the girls had swirls in their eyes and Kiyoko was skipping back to the game.
Fuji was currently against Jiroh and Yuki clung to the fence. Jiroh was awake now and he seemed eager to fight against Fuji. Yuki was grumbling to Kiyoko about Jiroh and how he was smiling at Fuji way too nicely. Finally Fuji won the match and Yuki jetted down the court to give the boy his towel and stopping a moment to stick her tongue out at Jiroh. Fuji laughed. Kiyoko found Ryoma sitting on the coach's bench and wondered why he got to sit there. Ryuzaki had taken Taka and Kabaji to the hospital. Their match was cancelled since both were injured.
Seigaku was in the lead and the schools were down to Singles 1. If Atobe won, they would have to hold a match with the substitute players. After a series of rallies and a final sudden death, Hyotei won and the score was tied. They were to have a substitute match. Ryoma was put in as a sub and he would be against Hiyoshi Wakashi, a second year who was likely to be Hyotei's future tennis captain. Tezuka walked back expressionless. Rei stepped forward and told him that they were taking a taxi for the hospital. Tezuka shook his head and told Rei that he had to watch Hyotei's match. Th team manager suddenly looked like the devil as she towered over the injured Tezuka. "Oishi can watch the others. You're hurt and it's my job as the team manager to take care of the sick." Without another word, Rei dragged a chibi-Tezuka to the hospital. Everyone was snickering. No one ever stood up against Tezuka. As Ryoma stepped on the court, Kiyoko called out words of encouragement.
"Echi-kun! Don't get nervous! If you lose, it's only gonna cost us the nationals that everyone's been working so hard at! No pressure right?" Everyone sweatdropped. They couldn't tell if the girl was being serious or not. Ryoma answered with a bored 'Ouis.' Yuki prayed that Kiyoko hadn't jinxed Ryoma's game. When it began, the regulars soon learned that Wakashi input martial arts into tennis. He called his style Kung Fu tennis. Yuki and Kiyoko were not impressed. The ref's whistle signalled the end of the match. Seigaku had won. The girls clasped hands and cheered while the mass of Hyotei's supporters looked crestfallen. Atobe's smile wasn't any worse despite the loss and he seemed amused at how far Seigaku had gotten. His team would have to work harder so that they would not be surpassed.
Kiyoko sighed boredly. Tezuka and Rei had gone to Germany for their own reasons. Oishi was put in charge and Yuki was made vice captain. No one objected.
Chapter 10
"I am so bored!" whined Kiyoko rolling on the ground in frustration while also pounding on the floor like a baby. Yuki, who was watching the girl, sweatdropped. The two were on the roof of the school and were watching the clouds change shape in the sky.
"It's not like we don't have plans tomorrow," said Yuki, "Besides, school's gonna be out." Kiyoko snorted before sitting up and brushing her hands through her hair.
"But we'll just be playing tennis!" whined Kiyoko before taking another bite of her lunch, "I wanna go out Yuki!" At that precise moment, a piece of paper flew their way. It landed on Kiyoko's face. She picked it up and took a look at the letter while Yuki looked behind her. "Hm, come to our annual carnival at Shinjuku. Ooh! A carnival! Yuki, Yuki, I wanna go to the carnival." Kiyoko was frolicking around the roof while hugging the flyer and jumping in joy.
"Why don't we invite the others from the tennis team," suggested Yuki smiling at the plan and at having a date with Fuji. Then, Kiyoko stopped while she was thinking of who she wanted to invite. She turned and smiled at Yuki.
"Let's invite Tomo and Sakuno," suggested Kiyoko smiling in a "Dr. Evil" pose that only served to freak Yuki out.
"I thought you didn't even like Sakuno and Tomo," said Yuki.
"I don't but I thought this could be a good time to show them who Ryoma really likes," said Kiyoko before laughing evilly. Yuki joined with a unique "Ohohohoho!" The two skipped back to the classroom and Yuki casually dropped the flyer on Tomo's head before getting to her seat. Kiyoko hugged Ryoma, who was about to throw his lunch, tightly. Sakuno looked away when she saw Kiyoko and Ryoma. Ryoma was slightly annoyed but didn't seem to mind while Kiyoko hugged Ryoma still tightly.
"Ryoma-kun, let's go to the carnival tomorrow," said Kiyoko seductively in the boy's ear. It had no effect on Ryoma, however, as he shook his head.
"I'm busy," he muttered while Kiyoko pouted. She wailed loudly while the rest of the class plugged their ears. Ryoma had a sweatdrop before shaking his head and sighing. "All right, I'll go." The screaming stopped and Kiyoko smiled hugging Ryoma tightly.
After practice, Yuki caught up with the Seigaku members before they left. "Oi! Eiji! Fuji-chan! Momo! Taka! And everyone else!" shouted Yuki getting tired of saying everyone else's name.
"Ah, Yuki, what is it?" asked Oishi. Yuki stopped in front of the boy panting for breath. Yuki smiled her face flushed before holding up a poster.
"Would all of you like to go to a carnival tomorrow?" asked Yuki shyly. Kiyoko had gone ahead of the others with Ryoma. Yuki smiled when all the members agreed to go, some reluctantly but eventually convinced by Inui's Punishment Smoothies.
"Hey Mamasita, I'm Fred Flintstone, let me rock your world," said two strange wanna be playboys to Yuki. Yuki moved a step backward and tried to run off when Kiyoko ran to the girl and clung to her.
"Yuki-chan! You're early," said Kiyoko, "where are the others?" Kiyoko turned in surprise when she saw the two drooling boys looking at her and Yuki hungrily. Kiyoko wore black low rise pants showing her sex muscles along with a white vest going above her bellybutton and a red tube top with a ring on it. She also wore black wrist-length gloves with buckles. Her flaming dark red hair flipped up and her red eyes had black eyeliner around them. She looked cutely at the two boys and then questioningly at Yuki who sweatdropped and was waving her hands to tell her that it wasn't a good time to come in.
"They're not here yet Kiyoko but we should probably get out of here," said Yuki tugging on the girl. Kiyoko was wondering why Yuki wanted to leave so quickly. Yuki wore black boots with a slim and lacy black dress with red sash. Her waist length black hair had blonde highlights and flowed freely behind her.
"Hey, how about you two hang out with us," suggested the two boys surrounding Yuki and Kiyoko. The two girls sweatdropped and were about to reject them when a voice interrupted them.
"Gomen, but they're with us," said a cheerful voice. Yuki turned and smiled when she saw Fuji. She happily went to the boy. The two boys who had been hitting on Yuki and Kiyoko grumbled before leaving. Now that Yuki and Kiyoko were not blocked by the boys, the Seigaku regulars blushed slightly. The girls were no longer wearing the sweatpants and shirts they usually wore at practice and now the girls' figures shone sexily. Kiyoko went to Ryoma and smiled cutely at him.
"How do I look Echi-KUN," said Kiyoko smiling and ruining her seductress image. Everyone fell backwards while Ryoma was absolutely oblivious to Kiyoko's transformation. A loud voice stopped Kiyoko from giving Ryoma a peck on the cheek and Tomo and Sakuno appeared in good girl clothes. Totally unimpressive and definitely not something to wear when around as impressive boys as the Seigaku regulars.
"Kiyoko! You're lucky we heard about this carnival or else we wouldn't have forgiven you," said Tomo appearing out of nowhere. Kiyoko stuck out her tongue and rolled her eyes as she ignored Tomo's lecturing.
"Where should we go first?" asked Momo who was always eager to have fun. Kiyoko looked around and spotted a stand where they had teddy bears for a prize. She smiled and dragged Ryoma there.
"Ryoma! Win me a bear," ordered Kiyoko shaking the younger boy. You had to toss three balls into the basket and you could get a teddy bear. Then another shake overtook Ryoma, now coming from Eiji.
"Ohchibi-chan! Win me a bear!" whined Eiji shaking the boy. Kiyoko snarled viciously at Eiji who smiled smugly at Kiyoko and stuck his tongue out at the girl. The two now started pulling on Ryoma's arm but a sound and claps were heard and the comical trio turned to Fuji who had given Yuki a bear. She blushed and gave the older
boy a peck on the cheek. Fuji just smiled cheerfully. Yuki now grinned at Kiyoko and Eiji who had two similar rivers of tears on their faces.Now the group walked to the average hit the pedestal with a mallet to test your strength. Now Momo stepped forward and pulled back his shirt.
"Now's the time for everyone to see my amazing strength," said Momo confidently. He grabbed a mallet and whacked the pedestal. The bell only rang on modest strength. Kaidoh hissed with a small chuckle while Kiyoko laughed. "Oi! This thing's defected!" claimed Momo. Now Kaidoh went forward and the ring went even lower to the YOU'RE WEAK part. Eiji tried a shot and whined when it didn't even go up. Ryoma took out his racket and handed it to Taka.
"BURNING!" shouted Taka before raising the mallet. The bell rang third to the last from the strongest. Now Kiyoko went forward to try it. She held it up above her but fell back with the size of the mallet. Everyone laughed while Kiyoko pouted. She finally pounded it on the pedestal and the mallet went to the YOU'RE WEAK part. Kiyoko fumed and nearly broke the mallet itself as she pounded it on the ground in frustration while the Seigaku members moved away in caution. Now Yuki went forward and took the mallet. She struggled slightly but smiled to herself when the mallet was easy to handle in her hands. She raised it up and put it full force on the pedestal. The bell rang and nearly flew off the bar as it rang at the highest rung. Yuki looked surprised as if it was a fluke while the other tennis members sweatdropped. Yuki was now given a small blue cat.
"I'm hungry," said Kiyoko rubbing her stomach. She was in a horrible mood since Yuki had been winning many stuffed dolls and she now needed a large bag to hold everything. Fuji had also won her some more. She needed some food to help her feel better.
"Let's go to the food stalls," suggested Oishi and everyone nodded agreeably. Now the large party took seats in the food stalls and most girls were pointing at the cute Seigaku members. Especially, Ryoma, Eiji, and Fuji. Kiyoko was hoarding Ryoma like a dragon hoarded her treasure. Tomo was fuming in the background as Kiyoko clung to Ryoma's shirt like a leech. Sakuno was visibly jealous and wanted to be where Kiyoko was. Yuki went closer to Fuji and Eiji and had her arms around the two. She was determined to keep the two from getting closer to any of the other girls.
"Ah," said Kiyoko patting her stomach contentedly, "That was good. How about we split up?" She smiled mischievously but Yuki agreed readily. She was eager to have some alone time with Fuji
"All right," said Oishi, "How about we all pick one right now." Kiyoko immediately latched on to Ryoma before Tomo could do it. Kiyoko stuck her tongue out before dragging Ryoma off to some unknown place. Tomo and Sakuno reluctantly went in their own directions while Yuki dragged Fuji off to the couple's boat rides. Eiji and Oishi went together with Taka and Inui as a foursome and Momo and Kaidoh were stuck with each other.
Coicidentally, both Yuki and Fuji and Kiyoko and Ryoma both ended up at the couple's boat ride. Kiyoko and Ryoma got a boat with a carp on it while Fuji and Yuki had a white beluga whale with a spouting top.
During Kiyoko's and Ryoma's Boat Ride
"Isn't this so romantic Ryoma," said Kiyoko smiling at the boy as she inched closer to the boy who was looking boredly out at the dim scenery. Kiyoko pouted at being ignored and then hugged him from the side. "Ryoma, we're supposed to be enjoying the scenery together." Now Kiyoko cuddled up to the boy by rubbing her cheek on his arm. Ryoma had question marks on his face.
"Mada Mada Dane," muttered Ryoma. Kiyoko sweatdropped before getting the anger mark on her face. She pushed the boy forcefully to the side like a guy would when he wanted to force a girl into something. Yuki appeared in chibi at the corner of the scene holding up a sign that said "Should be the other way around.
"Ryoma, do you like me?" asked Kiyoko but not bothering to wait for an answer. She leaned in for a kiss to which Ryoma was shocked into surprise. Before the two could press lips, the boat capsized and Kiyoko and Ryoma fell into the neck deep water. Kiyoko had leaned in too much and the boat tipped over. Kiyoko was looking up as if god was trying to curse her while pounding on the water with a depressed sigh. Ryoma went to the boat and lifted it back open without speaking to Kiyoko who thought that he was mad at her as she went to the boat. He turned to Ryoma and the girl wondered whether he was mad. Instead, Ryoma put his jacket over her head.
"In case you get a cold," muttered Ryoma before helping Kiyoko back up on the carp. Kiyoko pulled the jacket close to her and leaned in close to Ryoma. "To keep herself warm" was Kiyoko's excuse.
"What happened to you two?" asked Yuki when Kiyoko and Ryoma came out drenched in water. Fuji and Yuki had finished a few minutes before. Yuki was disappointed to see that Fuji had not made any moves. Unlike Kiyoko, Yuki was not as forward.
"We fell," answered Ryoma simply before walking past Yuki. Kiyoko shrugged as she went by Yuki and followed Ryoma. She ran in front of the boy to stop him from going any further.
"Echi-kun, let's go to the roller coaster ride," said Kiyoko cutely. Ryoma stopped in surprise and paled slightly but Kiyoko didn't notice.
"Mada Mada Dane," muttered Ryoma before going in the direction of the food stalls. Kiyoko laughed slightly and took him with her to the roller coaster line. Ryoma looked ghostly green while Kiyoko pushed him playfully.
"Ryoma you kidder, stop acting so sick, the ride'll be fun and I won't make moves on you when we're whirling in and out till we hurl," said Kiyoko cheerfully. The line was fortunately short and Kiyoko and Ryoma went to the seats at the front. Kiyoko was jumping up and down eagerly. Though she had promised not to do anything to Ryoma, she was still planning to cling to him and have more skinship bonding. A loud voice stopped Kiyoko from clinging to Ryoma in fear. Kiyoko prayed that it wasn't who she thought it was but then she sighed. Tomo and Sakuno were sitting right behind her and Ryoma. The ride started and Ryoma felt like he was going to throw up and leaned over. Kiyoko was happily enjoying the ride when Ryoma went limp next to Kiyoko and the girl turned to Ryoma. She was about to shake Ryoma when he leapt up suddenly and came to life. Tomo was shouting in surprise behind the two as Ryoma's lips pressed onto Kiyoko's. Kiyoko was pleasantly surprised and was about to go deeper when the ride went into an O and the two separated. Kiyoko wasn't looking at Ryoma but she touched her lips unconsciously while Ryoma still had a look of absolute shock on his face.
When Kiyoko and Ryoma stepped out of the ride, Tomo and Sakuno came to the two in a tizzy. Tomo glared vividly at Kiyoko who had swirls for eyes as if the kiss was still a dream. Ryoma looked away and was trying to keep from making eye contact with Kiyoko.
"We saw that Kazumi," said Tomo with her arms crossed. Kiyoko was still in a daze but was brought back to reality when Tomo shook the girl to high heaven. Sakuno said nothing but she looked as if she was about to cry when she looked at Ryoma and he did not even glance at her (like he ever would!).
"Huh? Saw what?" asked Kiyoko feigning innocence as she looked cutely at Tomo.
"You ATTACKED Ryoma!" shouted Tomo in Kiyoko's ear. The girl rolled her eyes and plugged her ears to block Tomo out. "I mean, wearing those clothes are bad enough but kissing Ryoma who doesn't even like you is even worse!" Kiyoko now glared. She was rarely angry but this one blew her top. The girl clenched her fists in anger while Tomo took an involuntary step back. She didn't think Kiyoko would be that angry.
"What the hell is wrong with my clothes, you little Fruit!" fumed Kiyoko while Ryoma took a few steps away from the girl, "I happen to like these clothes. If you have a problem, too bad." Tomo sweatdropped as Kiyoko grew fangs and had steam coming out of her ears. "Besides, Ryoma likes these clothes, right Ryoma?" Now Kiyoko turned to Ryoma smiling slightly. Since Kiyoko's soft lips touched Ryoma, the boy was looking at Kiyoko differently from the somewhat cute teammate he played tennis with. Kiyoko waved her hand over Ryoma wondering if he was still on the planet. Ryoma snapped
back to reality and nodded somewhat uncertainly since he didn't hear what Kiyoko was saying. Kiyoko grinned smugly at Ryoma as the two walked away. Sakuno and Tomo were crying in each other's arms as Kiyoko and Ryoma went to another ride.
Fuji and Yuki at the Ferris Wheel
"Wow Fuji! I can see everything from here," said Yuki excitedly as the twos' ride made its way to the top of the ferris wheel. Yuki was looking outside comfortable while Fuji nodded in agreement across from her. Yuki went back to her seat and smiled at Fuji before frowning slightly. "Am I boring you Fuji? You've been going to all the rides I wanted to go and I haven't even asked you where you wanted to go." Fuji shook his head.
"I'm fine," said Fuji, "I like spending time with you." Yuki blushed heavily and leaned over to get warmer. The previous comment was as forward as Fuji would ever get so she mind as well make the best of it. Now Yuki clung to his arm and closed her eyes breathing softly and enjoying the ride. "You're a little close, Yuki." Yuki was surprised that Fuji wasn't enjoying the moment but then frowned. She would definitely get a kiss from him tonight. It was surely pathetic how Kiyoko was having more progress than she was in the category of love. Their ferris wheel was now at the top and Yuki was on her knees in her seat. She made the boy turn his head to her.
"Fuji, I don't care if you're furious with me for a million years but I won't be beat," said Yuki before planting her lips on Fuji's. When she stopped and looked at the boy, he wasn't even surprised. He had the same exact expression. He could have at least opened his eyes or something. This was going to be tough. Yuki took a very deep breath. "Fuji-senpai, I know that you'll already reject me but I like you a lot! I want us to spend more time outside the tennis court and on dates like these except without the whole team there. Please be my boyfriend and go out with me!" Yuki had closed her eyes not wanting to see the expression on Fuji's face. To her utter shock, the boy answered by planting a kiss on Yuki's forehead.
"I like you too," answered Fuji, "I've been hoping to hold back until we're done with tennis but I can't. From now on,
you belong to me." Yuki had dots for eyes when Fuji had opened his icy blue eyes and was grinning evilly. She didn't think she
would luck out this well. When the two left the ferris wheel, they met up with the other regulars in the food court. Eiji and
Oishi had, at first, gone from stall to stall but had spent the rest of their time looking for the mother of a lost child. Eiji
was pouting at Oishi who was giving him an apologetic smile. Momo and Taka were slightly put out since they had been the only boy boy couple amid a sea of boyfriends and girlfriends when they went to watch a show. Kaidoh was Inui's new test subject and the two had tested out their skill and tried to win more than Yuki's collection of stuffed animals. Yuki smugly smiled when they hadnot succeeded.
"Hey! No fair! How come you get to have a boyfriend before me?!" asked Kiyoko with an outright pout when Yuki had told her the news. The peppy girl and Ryoma had been at the very DARK circus tent to try and get away from Tomo and Sakuno and they had also accidentally bumped heads so that Kiyoko had given an 'accidental' kiss on the cheek to Ryoma. Now she was thinking of a way to get Ryoma to say he liked her. When the rest of the regulars had heard, they facefaulted. Fuji had a sheepish hand behind his head while Yuki was beaming. Tomo and Sakuno wore identical stares of jealousy and Kiyoko was congratulating Yuki for being the cause. Meanwhile, in Germany, Tezuka had suffered a momentary cringe and shiver as he mused on whether Seigaku was practicing hard or not. Rei was in the US hospital at Germany when she had gotten the same cringe and shiver the moment Yuki had informed everyone of hers and Fuji's new relationship.
Chapter 11
"Yuki! What are we going to do? Since Rei's gone, there's no point living in the condo. We're gonna need to find another place to stay!" whined Kiyoko as she shook a dreamy Yuki. Fuji had walked her to school that morning and he had even dropped her off in class. The girls had been mourning for one more reason other than their beloved tensai being taken away. Rumor had gotten around about Kiyoko's and Ryoma's kiss. Though Kiyoko wasn't Ryoma's girlfriend, the girls knew that it was only a matter of time. Unsurprisingly, the only one who didn't know this was Ryoma. He was still clueless even after Eiji and Momo had been dropping hints during practice.
The lavender haired girl looked at Kiyoko in surprise before the information finally processed through her Fuji filled head. "You're right! Now we're homeless. Our ren comes in tomorrow too." At practice, the girls were looking particularly gloomy. When Fuji asked why, Yuki explained the situation adding a few sighs into the story.
The boy chuckled before offering his house. Since Yuta had moved out, there was a spare room. Yuki looked unsure. What about when Yuta moved back in? "He'll just have to share my room," said Fuji with glinting eyes, "But Kiyoko-san also needs a place to stay?" Yuki's happy bubble burst when she realized that Kiyoko might sabotage her dreamy paradise.
The girl quickly shook her head. "I think she was planning on asking is she could bunk with Ryoma," answered Yuki innocently. Kiyoko overheard Yuki's and Fuji's conversation. She was about to object when a cheshire grin sidled up to Kiyoko's face as she snuck up to Ryoma. The boy sighed and eventually agreed after Kiyoko had given him her ultimate weapon: the puppy dog face.
Both girls cheered at their success, but Kiyoko held up a finger. "Now all we need a book that teaches us to sneak up on people unnoticed! I must say that we'll be pervs and peeping toms in no time"
Yuki scoffed and frankly told the girl that no such book existed. Just then, Inui appeared in front of the girls giving Yuki a near heart attack. "Actually Aihara-san, I have a copy of that book right here," said the boy. After getting the momentary shock of seeing Inui pop up out of the blue, Kiyoko gloated.
"Are you sure this is a good idea Yuki?" asked Kiyoko revealing the hesitant tone in her voice, "Oishi-senpai is going to be mad at us if he finds out. You're the vice-captain too! I mean, I always thought my plans were stupid but yours is up there with mine!" Yuki batted a careless hand at Kiyoko as she walked confidently past the gates.
When Oishi had informed everyone that they were to go against Johseisyounan, Yuki seemed excited. She had heard that the school was popular because of the famed high-tech training program, and she wanted to check it out to see if the rumors were true. When Yuki had told Kiyoko about wanting to beat Inui as the data collector, Kiyoko laughed so hard that the stitch on her side ached for hours.
To prove herself, Yuki had dragged Kiyoko along with her on their way to Johsei. The pair were in their tennis uniforms since they had gone to the school after practice. Some of the Johsei students gave Yuki and Kiyoko strange looks when they asked where the tennis courts were located. Inside, there were multiple players doing different exercises.
A boy with dark brown hair flipped up noticed them immediately and walked up to them with a smile. "Did you girls lose your way? The elementary school is next door." Yuki and Kiyoko were in chibi with dots in their eyes. Did they look that young?
Kiyoko was the first to recover and she glared apprehensively at the brunette. "Hey! Can't you read? Yuki and I are from Seigaku Junior High!" The captain, Kajimoto, looked surprised. A redhead stepped forward haughtily and told the duo to leave before they informed the girls' captain. Yuki grinned widely and told the boys that all calls went to the vice-captain who just happened to be her.
Finally, Kajimoto heaved a large sigh. "Is there anything in particular that you want? If not, you both should leave," suggested the captain. Kiyoko smiled and stepped forward with her racket. It was obvious that she wanted a match. When Kiyoko took off her Seigaku jacket, the redhead, Wakato, looked closely at Kiyoko.
He surveyed her from all sides before talking. "Oi. Are you really a girl? From what I can see, you're as flat as the tennis court." Kiyoko pouted.
"These shirts are just baggy! You're so mean," wailed Kiyoko. She pointed her racket at the boy in a challenging fashion. "I want to fight you." Wakato shrugged. There was no doubt that he would win. Yuki took off her own jacket so that she could sit comfortably on the cold chair. Wakato snickered. If the shirts were so baggy, then why could he see Yuki's CURVACEOUS figure? "That's just cuz Yuki's got big boobs"
A fire blazed around Yuki after hearing Kiyoko's words. The girl was dead as soon as the match was over. All the Johsei players, except for one, gathered to watch the match. Kajimoto was the ref. Yuki glanced at a pair of twins next to her. "Oh! Are both of you the girls playing in the Mixed Doubles Matches? I'm eager to play against you," informed Yuki adding her business smile. Kouhei frowned while Youhei glared and told her that they were guys. The female players were nearby Wakato. Yuki glanced over and sweatdropped. Both had the physique of men. Saying Kiyoko was flat was a compliment when they were compared to Johsei girls!
The first, Sayaka, had boyish brown hair and people often debated over whether Sayaka was a boy or girl due to her feminine face and masculine body. The other, Ayame, was dressed in baggy boy's clothes and her face was hidden with a hat. Kajimoto blew the whistle and the match began. Kiyoko served an Ace that sped past Wakato. He grinned unconcerned at Kiyoko's show of power. After spending time at the villa, her power had increased tremendously. She took the time to display her biceps to Yuki who rolled her eyes. The game was 3 to 1 with Kiyoko in the lead, but Wakato still didn't care. Soon it was his turn to serve. He snapped his fingers and displayed a hat. A light centered on Wakato and another on the six girls behind him. Kiyoko had multiple question marks surrounding her.
Wakato smiled slyly. "I know exactly who to pick," said the boy, "Change!" A second later, the girls shrieked and shouted "OVER!" Even more question marks popped up. After a few minutes, Kiyoko glared at the triumphant Wakato. The ball zoomed past Wakato with incredible speed before Kiyoko marched out. Yuki bowed in apology to Kajimoto and walked out to follow Kiyoko.
To the girls' surprise, Ryoma and Fuji were waiting. Both wore unreadable expressions. Kiyokow as silent and brooding while Yuki was thoughtful as they walked ahead of the two boys who had followed them. Kiyoko turned and called out to the boys. "Ryoma-kun! We must practice more to beat Johsei." Ryoma was momentarily surprised at the sudden comment, but he then smiled.
"Mada Mada Dane."
On the day of the match, Kiyoko looked prepped and Yuki was showing off her hat with the words 'Vice-Captain' written on it. Oishi was stressing since he had promised Tezuka that he would take the team to nationals for him. Kioko told him that she would cheer everyone on. It was a meek attempt to make Oishi feel better, but now the substitute captain felt even worse.
The match was Kiyoko and Ryoma against Sayaka and Wakato. Kiyoko was smiling up at Wakato who lifted an eyebrow. "Hey Waya!" The redhead grew the anger mark.
"It's Wakato"
"Kato"
"Close but it's Wakato"
"Makato"
"Almost got it"
Finally Kiyoko rolled her eyes. "Whatever," said the girl as she waved her hand haphazardly, "Anyway, I'm going to beat you this time!" Kiyoko revealed the weights on her wrists and ankles. "I was wearing these before, but this time it'll be different." Kiyoko tossed the weights behind her and dusted off her hands in a final gesture. She smiled and flipped her hair. Behind the girl, Kachiro and Mizuno were bending over Horio who had a large bump on his head from the weights Kiyoko had thrown behind her. Everyone facefaulted.
When the game began, Ryoma did a Twist Serve at Sayaka who smiled and let it pass with no more than a shrug. For the next serve, Sayaka jumped. "Sayaka Smash!" she shouted loudly. The ball dived at Kiyoko's racket and hit the handle making it fall to the floor. "Wakato is not the only person in this game," said Sayaka smirking, "I am going to show you what a real doubles match is about." Kiyoko yawned loudly and asked what her name was again. Sayaka sweatdropped. "It's Sayaka!" Kiyoko grinned and told the girl that she wouldn't be beat. The next time, Kiyoko used her Lightning Strike and beat the Johsei Mixed Doubles team.
For the next match, Yuki and Fuji were supposed to fight against Ayame and Kajimoto. Yuki was ready and looked up when she heard Kiyoko calling her name. Kiyoko's finger was pointed at Yuki. A black bracelet with "Aim for the Top" in red lettering was visible on her wrist. Yuki smiled and pointed her finger at the sky. The final touch was a wink and the cousins laughed at their personal joke. Everyone wondered what had just happened before they shrugged.
The game began with Yuki's Hurricane Serve. It finished with Johsei winning. Yuki was majorly disappointed. Though she had managed to break Kajimoto's strange mind bending serve, Ayame had managed to cover the team with her solid playing. Yuki sighed and thought about whether she would have won the game is she had played with fewer weights. She was wearing nearly twice as many as Kiyoko.
After a flurry of events, the match was down to Reiji, the boy who was not present when Kiyoko and Yuki had paid a visit, and Ryoma. Youhei and Kouhei had beaten Momo and Inui and Doubles 2 since the pairing was bad. Oishi and Eiji beat Daichi and Shou in Doubles 1 and Kaidoh defeated Wakato. If Reiji lost to Ryoma, Seigaku would advance. Hanamura, the scientist/coach of Johsei, smiled ruefully. Reiji was her number 1 specimen. He, at first, had used his tennis to hurt others. after Hanamura had taught him to control himself, he had become a true gem.