Hey, sorry I lied. I promised the bad guys would return last chapter, but it became so long I decided to break it down into two.
Warning: There are scenes of violence and some sexual references. Just giving a little heads up for all you who might be offended by that type of thing. Also the attacks Motoko does are straight out of Love Hina, so please don't get belligerent. It is fiction after all; I've just added a little fantasy. If this has drifted too far into left field, let me know. If I get enough negative responses, I'll consider a rewrite. Enjoy!
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Rumble
-
Hiroki ran into the lobby, followed by two men in suits. He approached the reception desk and asked. "I'm looking for a policeman. He's supposed to be here with a friend of mine. She called me saying there was trouble."
"I'm sorry sir." The nurse said sweetly. "I haven't heard anything, are you sure you have the correct hospital?"
"I'm positive! Our friend was brought here last night after she was attacked." He replied looking around. Not seeing any unusual activity going on, he turned back, saying, "She told me she was hiding in a conference room. Where are they?"
"There is a suite of them just on the other side of the lobby." She said pointing. "Would you like me to contact security?"
"Please do. Tell them we'll be over there." He replied walking quickly away.
"Mr. Takasugi sir, we don't have any authority here." One of the men said nervously. "We could embarrass your father if we make too big a noise. Are you sure Miss Himuro is here?"
"I'm sure. Izumi doesn't call for help for no reason. Something is happening in that garage that scared her. We'll check the conference rooms, and if she isn't there, we'll go down to the garage. Knowing Izumi, she completely ignored me and left to help deal with the problem. She doesn't abandon her friends."
"You said the police are aware of what's going on. I would advise standing back and letting them handle it. If this is a criminal endeavor, we may not be able to protect you sir."
"When we find Izumi and the others, we'll pull back and let events progress. I have people I care about in harms way, and I won't rest until they are out of harms way. Are we clear on that point?"
"Yes sir!" Both men answered crisply.
"Then let's move quickly gentlemen. I have a feeling time is precious." He said breaking into a jog.
-
Amy was limping more severely as she walked to her grandfather's car. Her mother noticed and commented. "Amy? Do you need to rest? You're wincing with every step."
"I'll be fine Mom." She replied gamely. "We're almost to the car." Looking ahead, she added, "Great, the row of lights are out by the car, as if I wasn't edgy enough."
Kenji was still replaying his voicemails, nearly through the list. Looking at his phone, he noticed at the bottom a familiar name. "I have a voicemail from a Keiko Himuro. Isn't she the one you needed to contact about Amy's testing?"
"That's right." Kimiko said looking at the screen. "We must have just missed her call. Maybe it's about the tests. Put it on speakerphone Dad."
He did as she asked, and they were surprised to hear Izumi's panicked message. They felt their blood go cold when they heard someone cough behind them. Turning slowly, they saw Toru, surrounded by seven other's, including the young man from the gatehouse. His hands in the pockets of his hooded sweatshirt, Toru said with a satisfied grin, "Well, well, if it isn't the Yankee dyke. Looks like you took some lumps last night too, what a shame."
"Oh shit." Amy said under her breath, her face going pale. "H-Hey man; no hard feelings, right? It was just a fight, people get hurt in fights, right?"
His grin vanished in an instant. "Oh, I have plenty of hard feelings. I don't get hit, ever! That's why I have these guys. I'm the brain, and they're the muscle. Tokyo's a big city, and I was thinking I was going to have trouble finding you alone again. Then my pal Maki here called and told us he saw Morimura with another tall girl, and I knew it had to be you. We waited, and here you are. Time for payback bitch!"
"You want her, you'll have to go through us." Kenji said as he and Kimiko took defensive stances in front of her. "You punks won't be so cocky when we get done with you."
Clapping his hands, a grin back on his face, Toru exclaimed. "Fantastic! What movie was that line from? If you were twenty years younger gramps, I might be worried. Let's get this over with. I'm sure that cop we jumped told someone he was coming in here. We have a little time, but why put it off?"
"Back against the car!" Kenji cried as the attack commenced. The three of them put up a heroic effort, getting in some good blows that hurt their opponents, but they were soon overwhelmed by the unrelenting assault. The two adults were dragged before Toru, and thrown to the ground, while another man held Amy, her arm twisted cruelly behind her back, forcing her to watch.
Looking at Toru with contempt, Kenji goaded. "Some tough guy you are, sending seven young men against two women and an old man."
"Pretty big words, gramps." Toru said derisively. "I'll admit you two weren't the pushover I thought you'd be. You put up a good fight, but it's over." Reaching into the pocket of his fatigues, he produced a collapsible baton. "You should have just let it go down. Now we need to hurt you." He said as he flicked his wrist, and the weapon opened to its full length with a metallic 'snick'. "It's not my fault you decided to be heroes." Toru said squatting down by them. "Who's she to you anyway?"
"I'm her mother," Kimiko said, glaring "and he's her grandfather."
"Huh!" Toru said surprised. "I was thinking you were just some flunkies from her school." Taking her face in his hand, he took a closer look at Kimiko. "Damn woman, you're still pretty fly for having a kid her age. Maybe I'll just get my payback from you. What do you say? A little horizontal bop, and I won't put the smackdown on you or your daughter."
Kino snorted, saying. "Why not do the girl? Why would you want that dried up old…?" He stopped short when Toru glared at him.
"The dyke lost her chance when she broke my nose." He said curtly. "I'm offering her mom a choice." Looking back down at her, he continued. "I guarantee my way will hurt a lot less. I'll be really gentle. You might even enjoy it."
"I doubt it." Kimiko said, meeting his gaze coldly. "My husband sets the bar pretty high. Nearly seventeen years together, and he can still satisfy me." Looking at her daughter, whose pale face was twisted with pain, she drew a deep breath, and said. "I want you to promise nothing will happen to them, either of them! My father goes unharmed as well."
"No mom!" Amy cried out. "I can take it. Don't let him do this to you!"
"It'll be all right honey." She said climbing to her feet. Walking over, she glared at the man holding her daughter saying, "Let her go. She can barely walk, so she's not going to run." He complied after getting the nod from Toru. Kimiko caught her, and led her to the car. Letting her down gently, she made Amy lean against it. "If I can protect you doing this, I don't mind. I'll tell your father as soon as we get home; he'll understand why… Dad, look after her as best as you can." Then she stood, and walked to Toru, who held his arm out for her to go ahead of him.
"I'm not so callous as to make your daughter watch you do this. I have a blanket in the van." He said grinning stupidly in anticipation.
"Let's just get this over with." She said shortly, distaste clearly showing on her face. Looking back over her shoulder, she saw Kenji sit down next to Amy, and put his arms around her as she collapsed against him in tears. Turning back, tears clouding her eyes, she failed to notice Toru give his men a nod as they walked away.
-
Corey, Seira, and Izumi raced down the stairway. They had tried the elevators, but they wouldn't come. They reached the first level of the parking garage, only to see Motoko kneeling serenely on the landing, wearing a red hakama and a white gi, with a sheathed katana across her lap. Looking up at their approach, she said. "You didn't tell me what level your grandfather had parked on, and the villains have blocked the doors. I don't want to damage more than one, so I thought it prudent to wait. The policeman has been trying to force the door on the next level down. I'm sure his shoulder is getting sore by now."
"That's the right door." Corey said with a nod. "We parked on the second level."
"Then let's go. I'm sure you're family has encountered them already." She said rising quickly to her feet.
"Then why the hell are you so calm?" Seira screeched. "My friend could be being murdered, and you act like it's no big deal!"
"A cool head will serve you better than panic." The swordswoman said, nonplussed. "Rushing in headlong will only put us in a possibly compromised position." Then she leapt to the handrail, balancing on the tubing as she slid down to the next landing, completely bypassing the steps. Looking back at the friends, she grimly nodded, and leapt again. They ran after her, and when they arrived at the door, they saw her standing with her katana drawn, eyes closed, focusing her thoughts. Officer Watanabe was anxiously looking over the railing. The others could hear something falling, bouncing of the concrete on the way down. "I told you not to point that gun at me Officer. Next time, do not ignore my warning." She said, with her brow furrowed. A few second later, her eyes snapped open as she cried. "God's Cry School; Rock Crushing Sword!" A wave of energy flew from her blade as she swung, and when it impacted with the door, blew it off its hinges. Not bothering to see if they were following, she darted through the billows of smoke and dust.
"Holy shit!" Corey said amazed. "I thought she was giving us a load of crap, but she really is some kind of mystical warrior."
"Can the chatter!" Watanabe said regaining his wits as he followed the samurai. "I'm sure they heard that, so we need to move fast!"
"Where's security?" Izumi asked as they quickly made their way around twisted remains of the door. "I thought you told them about this."
"Damn rent-a cops." He cursed. Then in a mocking voice he mimed. "'We'll look into it when we come off of lunch.' Believe me, I'm going to let my superiors know about this. There'll be some personnel changes around here."
The four of them ran through the dimly lit garage, constantly watching for an ambush. Motoko was nowhere to be seen, so Corey took point, leading them along the wall in front of the cars to where his grandfather had parked. Loud music was playing, and they slowed as they approached. Watanabe signaled for them to spread out, and they moved apart, threading between different cars. Laughter could now be heard, as well as cries of pain. When they looked to where the sounds were coming from, their blood boiled. A portable stereo blared, covering the sounds of Amy's distress, as the gang members stood in a circle passing around bottles of different liquor. A rope had been thrown over a water pipe above, and Amy, strung up by her wrists so her feet were off the floor, twisted and swayed as she kicked at the men who were taking turns slapping and punching her. Kenji was lying dazed beside the car, a bloody gash on the side of his head. Corey, enraged, was on the group in a heartbeat. Ferociously swinging his staff, he cut through the circle until he was beside his sister. Izumi, a step behind, did the same with her makeshift bat, angrily scanning the group, ready to defend her friend.
"So big brother's come to the rescue," Kino sneered, his voice thick from the alcohol. Then leering at Izumi, added. "And he brought some fresh meat. You're just in time. Now that we took the fight out of her, we were going to have some fun. Do you really think you two can stand up to all of us alone?"
They laughed until one of them was sent reeling as he was struck in the head by something. Searching frantically, unable to see where it was coming from, two more were hit before they spotted Seira, standing in the back of a pickup, ducking behind the cab between throws.
"It's Morimura!" Kino yelled. "She's got her cue balls again!"
"They aren't cue balls." Maki said, holding his hand out to show him. "They're urinal cakes."
"There's plenty more where those came from you bastards. Let my friend go!" She cried, throwing another at Kino, who ducked.
"Why don't you come down here and say that bitch!" Kino taunted, a butterfly knife suddenly appearing in his hand. "You caught those three off guard, but now knowing where you are will make all the difference!"
"No, I'll make the difference." Watanabe said emerging into plain sight, his jacket gone, and his shoulder holster dangling from his hand. "Remind me to have a few words with that woman about knocking my sidearm down the stairwell."
"Wait a minute." Kino said angrily. "I know you! You chased us off when we were hitting on those girls yesterday. You really think were scared of a single cop? We already took down two today, what's one more?"
"That's where you're wrong." Corey said impatiently, tapping his staff on the ground. "The way I see it, you'll let her down, and get on your knees with your hands behind your heads. Otherwise, we'll beat the crap out of you."
"Ha! That's funny!" Kino replied grinning. "We have you outnumbered nearly two to one, and two of you are girls. This will be easy. Get them!"
Corey stepped out to meet them, the staff a blur as it connected with the forehead of the first attacker. The skin split and blood ran into his eyes. Drunk, disoriented and blinded, he dropped to his knees, holding his hand over his wound. Grabbing his collar, Kino threw him aside. "Moron, ever hear of blocking a blow?" He said advancing on Corey, his knife held in front of him. Corey thrust the staff like a spear, trying to keep Kino at a distance. The thug sidestepped it, grabbing the staff. He was pulling back to thrust with the knife, when he was struck in the back of the head by a urinal puck. Corey, seizing the moment, punched him in the nose, causing him to let go and stumble back, shaking his head to try and clear his vision.
"Don't you dare stab my boyfriend, you creep." Seira cried launching another puck at one of the men who were ganging up on Izumi. When the man was distracted, Izumi kicked him in the side of his knee. There was a loud pop, and the man fell clutching his injury.
"Watching those kung fu movies with Hiroki is paying off." She said ducking a punch. Then showing the form that made her a champion tennis player, she delivered a solid backhand to the side of the man's head, knocking him down. Moving out of the circle, she went after the man who'd snuck up on Seira, and was dragging her out of the truck. "Let go of her you jerk!" She yelled as she swung her weapon, connecting with the man's wrist.
Bellowing in pain, he let go of Seira, who fell heavily to the ground, and angrily fixed his attention on the dark haired girl. Izumi turned to run, but the man's hand shot out, grabbing her hair. He snatched the 'bat' out of her hand, and reared back to hit her with it, when a hand grabbed his wrist. Looking back, he saw the bloody visage of Kenji. "Old man, you should have stayed down." The thug growled. "You're really in for it when this is done."
"Let her go!" The doctor said, grabbing the bat and holding it firmly. When the man released Izumi to face the new threat, Kenji braced his foot and twisted, taking them both to the ground.
Seira, recovered from her tumble, saw the man on top of Kenji, pressing the bat into the old man's throat. "You son of a bitch! Get off him!" She cried. Then charging at them, hit him with a blindside tackle that would have made Corey's football coach proud. The man's head struck the concrete, dazing him. Seira finished the job with a solid blow to his jaw.
"Miss Himuro, are you alright?" Watanabe called, as he swung his holster like a chain mace, clubbing his opponent. Seeing her wave and reclaim her weapon, he smiled. "What a woman. No prima donnas there." Then he landed a solid left to the man's chin, driving him to his knees.
The gang members, at least the ones still standing, feeling overwhelmed by the ferocity of the defenders, surrendered. Throwing their weapons away, they knelt down with their hands on their heads. Corey and the policeman stood guard over them as Seira and Izumi, after checking to see if Kenji was all right, went to help Amy. When she was down, they cut the rope into pieces and began securing the men for the police.
Corey pulled Kino up and threw him against the side of a van. Looming over the smaller man, he snarled. "Where's my mother?"
"Bite me!" the thug said glaring. "She's dead when Toru's done with her, so I wouldn't plan on seeing her again."
Dropping the staff, Corey stood completely still, looking down. Then with a guttural cry, he pulled his fist back, and punched the side of the van next to Kino's head, leaving a five-centimeter deep dent. "Last chance." He said through gritted teeth, his face dark. "Tell me where he's taken her!"
His eyes bulging, and a stain growing between his legs, Kino stammered, "H-H-He took her to the van. He was going to get some action from her! I was kidding about him killing her, honest! He doesn't have the guts to do something like that!" His knees buckling, he slid down to the ground.
"As long as you're being so talkative creep, where's my partner?" Watanabe said glaring.
"He's tied up in a storeroom by the stairs. He was still alive when I put him there." He replied, his eyes never leaving Corey.
The girls walked up, supporting a battered Amy. Seira had removed her jacket, and laid it over the girl's shoulders. Her left eye was blackened, and her lip was split in two places. Her wrists were bruised and bleeding from the ropes as she threw her arms around Corey's waist, holding him tightly. "She agreed to go with him so I wouldn't get hurt! They lied to her Corey! They never intended to honor the agreement. As soon as she was out of sight, these gorillas grabbed me, and beat up Grandpa."
Watanabe, hearing of this deception grew outraged. "The double-crossing pieces of shit! First they make an indecent proposal, and then they renege? Jail's too good of a place for them. Corey, let me help rescue your mother."
"Thank you, but I don't want the police there when I meet this creep. First he attacks my sister, now he coerces my mother into having sex with him? He won't be doing shit like this anymore when I'm done with him! If you don't mind, would you help the girls get Amy and my grandfather upstairs? I'll be joining you all shortly." Leaning down, he grabbed Kino by the collar, and hauled him up, holding him so his feet were dangling. "My new friend here is going to lead me to his boss!"
"I want him alive Corey." The officer said somberly. "He's responsible for the assault on two policemen, and I'm sure I'm not the only one who wants to see him stew behind bars for awhile. Besides, I really don't want to arrest you for murder."
"It never crossed my mind Officer." He said glaring at the quivering thug. "I'm just going to get my Mom back. I don't know if I can keep her from killing him when she hears he deceived her, though."
"Izumi!" A voice called. Turning, they saw Hiroki and his men, followed by hospital security. "Are you all right?" He said running up to her. "We didn't know where you had gone. I'm glad you're safe."
"Hiroki!" She said, throwing her arms around him. "I'm so glad to see you. I'm sorry, but I couldn't sit there, knowing Amy might have been in danger. You should have seen us; we kicked their butts."
"Izumi was amazing." Seira said grinning hugely. "The princess swings a mean plunger handle."
"I was so mad when I saw what they were doing to Amy, I just reacted." She admitted, blushing at Seira's praise
Seeing Amy, Hiroki gasped. "My god! They really worked you over! We need to get you upstairs!"
"I'll be alright." Amy said with a weak smile. "I'm just going to need some rest. Sorry guys, but I don't think I'll be able to see your game this afternoon."
"That's the last thing you should be worrying about." Izumi scolded. "Hiroki, we'll get her upstairs. Would you help Corey rescue his mother? The leader of this pack of jackals tricked her in to going with him for…some intimate activity." Izumi said delicately, remembering how close she'd come to being in that same predicament.
"That's not necessary." Corey said pulling Kino along. "I don't need anyone else seeing my mom like that."
"What if he's not alone?" Watanabe asked. "Weaklings like him rarely do anything without someone watching his back. I can understand you not wanting me there Corey, but a friend can be invaluable in times like this. Too bad that samurai woman's not around, I wonder what happened to her?"
"That's right!" Seira said looking around. "She blew the door up and disappeared! It wouldn't even have been a fight if she had been here. One swing of that katana, and these guys would have been flat on their backs."
"She helped us get in here, and I'm grateful to her for that." Corey said gravely. "If she hadn't gotten that door open, we would have been too late. Hiroki, my mom knows you, so you can come, but your men will have to stay."
"Sure." He replied with a nod. Turning to his associates, he said. "Stay and help the security people. I don't think this will take long." Then he and Corey started off in the direction Kino pointed to.
"Hiroki, wait!" Izumi called after them. She picked up her bat, and brought it to him, saying. "Take this. If anyone knows how to swing a bat it's you." Then she gave him a quick kiss on the cheek, and said softly. "Be careful."
"Thanks Izumi." He said, surprised by her kiss. Then with his typical bravado, he added. "Don't worry. If these characters are typical of the thugs that guy recruits, we'll be fine." Then with a nod to Corey, they jogged away.
The van in sight, they paused to secure Kino. Using one of the pieces from the rope, they secured him to a drainpipe behind a support column. Hiroki stuffed his handkerchief in the thug's mouth to prevent him from calling out. Approaching cautiously, they listened. Not hearing any sound of activity, they panicked, and sprinted the rest of the way. Rounding the back of the vehicle, they were unprepared for the sight that greeted them. Toru was lying on the ground, bound hand and foot and gagged with duct tap. He had a sign reading 'despicable pervert' pinned to his shirt, which was all he was wearing. Motoko knelt calmly knelt next to him, her drawn katana across her knees reflecting the overhead lights.
Kimiko sat in the door of the van, fully dressed, glaring at the man. When she heard them approach, she looked up, and sighed with relief. Standing and running to her son, she cried. "Corey! I'm so glad you're all right! This woman told me about Amy, how badly did they hurt her?"
"She got beat up pretty good, but I think she'll be ok. Grandpa took some lumps too." He answered, embracing his mother, relief letting his body relax. "How about you? Did this son of a bitch do anything to you?"
"No." She replied quietly. Embarrassed her son needed to ask her that, tears formed in her eyes. "She showed up just before he began. He did get to see me naked though." She said glaring at Toru again. "I'm sorry Corey. I'm sure you're ashamed of me, agreeing to go with this jerk."
"Not at all Mom." Corey said squeezing her tighter. "You were willing to sacrifice yourself to protect Amy. I've always been proud that you were my mom, but never more than today." After hugging her one last time, he turned to Motoko. Bowing, he said formally. "Thank you very much for saving my mother. My words cannot adequately express my gratitude. I am indebted to you. How may I repay you?"
"You're gratitude is appreciated, but unnecessary." She said climbing to her feet, and sheathing her blade. "I'm just glad I wasn't too late to stop this atrocity."
"How did you know where I was?" Kimiko said walking up and taking the woman's hands. "You appeared out of nowhere and protected my honor, thank you." Then she embraced the samurai, who blushed deeply.
"Th-That's all right." Motoko said nervously, pulling back. "I was poised beside a car near the circle around your daughter, ready to jump in and pummel the lot of them, when I heard one of them mention this Toru, and what he was planning to do to you. I knew your son and the others were right behind me, and I believed that righteous anger, along with the fact the reprobates were becoming inebriated drinking alcohol, would assure their victory. I searched for the van, and hearing this moron's excited jabber, knew I'd found the right one."
"You should have seen his face when that sword was at his neck!" Kimiko said with amusement. "The coward started bawling like a little kid. Some crime boss."
"Hey Toru!" a voice cried. "I took care of the old man, and I brought…" Minoru called, walking around the corner of the van and stopping short when he saw everyone frowning at him. "Oh shit!" He said turning to run, only to have Hiroki grab his collar and pull him violently to the ground as Motoko's katana whisked from its sheath, the point of the blade stopping just above his nose. His head thumped on the ground as he fainted. Shaking her head in disbelief, Motoko put her sword away.
"See Corey, I came in handy after all." He said flashing his million-dollar smile, only to have his expression change to one of surprise as a pair of hands grabbed him from behind, and tossed him over the next car.
"Hiroki!" Corey cried as he watched his friend disappear. Turning back, his face fell, "Aw hell, not him." Corey said looking up at Akira. "They weren't kidding about his size. Mom, get behind me."
"Toru you idiot." Akira said, seeing his current state. "Thinking with your balls again. Man, you need to find some hard up chick and settle down. You sure don't cut it as a player." Looking at Motoko, he asked. "You the girl he wants me to pound?"
"Not likely." She replied warily. "I just met him ten minutes ago when I was pulling him off that unfortunate woman."
Looking at Kimiko, his eyebrows rose. "You must really need it bad if you're going after a middle aged woman. I have to admit though, she not bad looking."
Stepping forward, Corey challenged him. "Look, all of Toru's gang has been taken down, and my sister's already been beaten up, so you don't need to. You haven't done anything wrong yet, so why don't you just forget this loser, turn around, and go back to where you came from?"
"And miss out on having some fun?" He said chuckling. "You look like you could give me a decent fight. How about it? If you win, I'll go away, and never bother you or your family again. If I win, I get to do her!" he said pointing at Motoko. "You're still a virgin, right? You shrine chicks are always stuck ups about that."
"No way!" Corey cried outraged. "She's not part of my family, she just helped in the fight."
"That's irrelevant." Motoko said ominously, tightly gripping her sheathed blade. "I wouldn't agree to such an arrangement even if I was. Why must men be so depraved? And for your information, I'm not a shrine maiden, I am the heir to the God's Cry School of Swordsmanship, and this is our uniform. Cretin."
"So do you still have your cherry or not?" He pressed. "I hope so, because I love hearing that cry of pain when it tears, and seeing the streaks of blood against pale skin."
"That's obscene!" Kimiko said, her face going white as she stepped behind Motoko who, upon hearing Akira's comment, growled and drew her sword again.
"I can tell I won't be able to talk you out of this, so let's get it over with." Corey said jumping and sliding across the hood of the car. Going to where Hiroki lay, he was relieved to see his friend looking at the ceiling. "How you doing?" He asked kneeling next to the slugger.
"I'll be ok, just got the wind knocked out of me." Hiroki answered with a grin. "That guy's really strong, so be careful."
"You just rest, and I'll try not to get killed." Corey said, laying a hand on his friend's shoulder. Then standing, he moved to the open area between the rows of cars. "You coming?" He called to Akira.
"Sure." He replied stepping out. Looking back, he chuckled at Motoko guarding Kimiko, her katana held straight up in both hands, and her eyes deadly serious. "I think Samurai Girl wants to make sushi out of me."
"I don't think there enough hot mustard in Japan to make you taste good." She said grimly. "I was thinking more along the lines of shark bait."
"Ouch, that's cold." He said feigning a shiver. "So if I can't have her, what do I get when I win?"
"You can have me." Seira said walking from between two cars. "The same deal Toru wanted, my virginity for his safety. I'll give you what you want if you leave him and his family alone."
"Seira!" Corey yelled rushing to stand between her and the colossus. Looking at her over his shoulder, he continued. "Why are you here? Don't do this! I can't let you sacrifice yourself for me. This is the guy whose face you peppered with glass. He'll kill you if he gets hold of you!"
"I don't care!" She said hugging him from behind, drawing strength from his warmth. "I'd rather he pounded me than you. I came because I was worried about your mom, and thought she might want another woman around. Instead I find you ready to duke it out with this Neanderthal. You have such a great future ahead of you. You're going to help lots of people when you become a doctor. How can I stand by and let that future be ruined? Let me do this Corey. I'll admit I'm scared shitless, but if I can save you, my life will finally have some meaning."
Turning to face her, he replied softly, holding her close. "How could I still be a doctor, when I'll know I let the one thing that matters the most to me get destroyed? It won't matter if my body is alive, because my heart will die with you. Go over by Mom. This guy's evil, Seira, and he has to be stopped. If I don't do this, there'll be a lot more people hurt."
"Bravo! Bravo!" Akira cried clapping loudly. "You two should take up acting. I'm sure there's a 'B movie' script out there with your names on it."
"Shut up doofus!" Seira spat. "Why'd you have to crawl out of your hole anyway?"
"Because I heard a certain street tramp was hanging out here, as well as a tall, good looking virgin I was supposed to pound." He replied looking at Toru with disgust. "It seems someone couldn't wait for me to do the job. Oh well, if I can't have the one, I guess I'll have to settle for the other." Then he lunged at the two of them, his speed surprising for someone with his bulk.
Corey shoved Seira back between the cars as Akira swung a meat hook left that he barely ducked. Using the larger man's momentum, Corey grabbed his attacker's waist and tossed him to the ground. He dove at him, trying to get a chokehold, only to meet Akira's elbow. Staggered, he moved back, rubbing his jaw. "You're quick for a big man. This isn't going to be easy."
"First mistake." Akira said quickly regaining his feet. "You should have sucked it up and kept me down on the ground. You caught me by surprise with that throw. You won't be able to do that again." His eyes watching Corey's, he slowly advanced.
Corey set himself in a defensive posture, preparing for the inevitable attack. His weight on the balls of his feet, he was ready for anything, or so he thought.
With a roar, Akira lunged for Corey's waist. When the young American moved to counter, Akira quickly stood and delivered a sweeping forearm that took him off his feet onto his back.
"Corey!" Seira cried. "Look out!"
Akira leapt in the air, intending to crush his opponent like his last fight, but Corey, hearing Seira's warning, put his legs up and stopped him. Looking surprised, Akira hung suspended for a split second, before Corey, with a groan of effort, and using Akira's momentum, pushed up with his legs, tossing his opponent over his head, making him land on his back. Breathing hard, Corey scrambled away from the giant, and stood ready for the next attack. He was surprised to see Akira laughing.
"Damn! That was fantastic!" He said rolling over and crawling to his feet. "No one's done that to me before. You're strong buddy!"
"I can leg press 200 kilos, and although you're big, I don't think you weigh that much." Corey said relaxing a little. "Are we done? I really don't want to fight anymore."
Akira's smile vanished as he said darkly. "After that stunt? Hell no we're not done. You made me look stupid in front of my date. I'm taking you down hard now."
"You're date?" Corey asked looking at the women. "What are you talking about?"
"Morimura, you idiot. I owe that bitch payback, and she's going pay me, on her back!" He growled running at Corey.
Motoko seethed hearing Akira's intentions. Stepping around Seira, she shot out in front of Corey, her katana poised to strike. "Think again, you vile, repugnant animal! I'll kill you before I let you touch that girl!"
Startled by her sudden appearance, Akira stopped, and looked at her with a sideways grin. "What are you doing? I'm unarmed and you come at me with a sword? Some samurai you are. I guess you don't hold your honor very high either."
"Hold your tongue miscreant!" She fumed. "My honor is everything." Sheathing her blade, she handed to Corey. "Take this, I won't need it to defeat the likes of him."
"Miss Aoyama!" He replied in disbelief. "Are you sure? You'll be defenseless!"
"The God's Cry School may primarily teach swordsmanship, but we do not neglect unarmed combat. Corey, go to the others. I can no longer allow such an amoral person to remain free to do as he wishes. If I fail, you'll need to continue, but for now this is my fight!"
"This is stupid! Why don't you want to use your sword?" Seira cried.
"My opponent is unarmed. It would dishonorable to face him in single combat with a weapon." Motoko replied. "There was a time, when I was your age Seira, I would have used my sword in this situation without hesitation. I have matured, and I think I'm a better person for it. If I die here, you have my permission to use it to defend yourself from this monster."
"Hey." Akira said smugly. "Don't be calling me names, you might give me a complex."
Looking at him with disdain, Motoko retorted. "I say it like I see it." Then, assuming a stance, said. "Are you prepared to accept defeat from a woman?"
"I don't know. I never fought a woman before. I've pounded a few, but never had one who could fight back." Akira said grinning evilly. "How about it? Land a solid hit, and the other person takes off a piece of clothing?
"Do you ever think of anything besides sex?" Motoko said glaring. "Enough talk! Now come at me you obnoxious cur."
"You asked for it." He said as he slowly advanced, following her every move. Motoko circled, drawing her opponent away from the others, who watched anxiously. Akira spun, bringing a kick towards her waist, only to hit air as she leapt above it. Delivering a roundhouse of her own to the side of his head, she grinned in satisfaction as he was knocked off balance. Landing gracefully, she immediately launched a heel strike, only to have him block it with a massive forearm. He grabbed her ankle, and spinning, hurled her headfirst across the garage towards a column.
"Miss Aoyama!" Corey yelled, expecting her to impact gruesomely. Instead, he was amazed as she tumbled in mid flight, meeting the column feet first, her legs absorbing the force of the impact. She leapt away, flipping so she landed on her feet. She looked up just in time to duck under a strong right from Akira that would have most likely broken her neck if it had connected. With a fierce cry, she drove her right elbow into his ribs, eliciting a grunt of pain from her foe. Enraged, Akira raised his arm, and brought his elbow down on her head. Stunned, she dropped to her knees. Akira grabbed her by the front of her gi, effortlessly lifting her off the ground.
"Bitch! You actually hurt me! I'm the Toughest Man in Tokyo! I've taken shots from guys twice your size and barely felt it. How can a scrawny little thing like you, knock me around?"
Her eyes steely, and her voice unwavering, she said simply. "I can focus my ki to any part of my body. That is why you feel my blows over the thugs you usually battle. Unlike them, I am a true warrior. Training and discipline have forged me into a weapon. You were unwise to bring me this close to you."
"Yeah?" he replied sticking his face in hers. "Why's that?"
"Because now I can do this." She said as she brought her right hand up between Akira's arms, connecting with his chin. The force of the blow rocked his head back, staggering him. He dropped Motoko as he shook his head, and worked his jaw. "Holy shit that hurt!" Bellowing, he lunged, grabbing her ankle as she tried to leap away. Pulling her in, he grabbed the waist of her hakama. Raising her over his head, he slammed her into the concrete, rendering her nearly insensate. Disoriented, she blearily looked up, her eyes unfocused. His foot was poised over her head, ready to deliver the final blow, when he was struck across the shoulders from behind. Angrily turning, he saw Hiroki standing there, holding Izumi's bat. "That was the last mistake you'll ever make kid."
"She's had enough!" The batter said poised to fight. "I won't let you kill her!"
"You don't have enough to stop me." He said turning back to Motoko, only to find Seira standing over her with the samurai's blade held like a bat. "Whoa! Morimura! Don't do anything crazy!" He said holding his hands out in front of him.
"Bite me asshole!" She said tightening her grip. "You better back off, or you'll be carrying you're intestines home in a bag. I ain't worried about any warrior sense of honor crap. Give me a reason to slice you, and I won't bat an eyelash doing it. A lot of people would breathe easier if I just went ahead and did it!"
"Seira put that away." Corey said calmly. "If you do that, you'll go to jail. That isn't self-defense."
"She won't need to." Motoko said slowly climbing to her feet. "I will finish this."
"Miss Aoyama, are you ok?" Corey asked moving to her.
"I believe I have some broken ribs. You're right. He is quick for a big man." Walking to Seira, she put her hands on the girl's, taking the sword away. "Thank you for giving me the time I needed to recover. Please step back." Turning to Akira, she said. "This fight is over. If I had been alone, I would be dead now. I concede on one condition. You will not touch these people, or I will use my sword on you."
"How the hell are you standing?" Akira asked incredulous. "Forget it, I don't want to know. This is it! I'll make sure you stay down this time!" Running at her, he bent down to tackle her.
Shifting her sword to her left hand, she braced herself and cried, "God's Cry School, Dragon Fist!" Her hand was a blur as she reached out and connected with Akira's cheek. Blood and tissue erupted as he was thrown back two meters, landing on his back. She sagged to the ground, leaning on her sword.
The others looked at her in awe before Seira moved to assist her. Helping the swordswoman to her feet, the redhead guided her towards the van.
Groaning, Akira stirred, and sat up. "Man, what hit me?" Looking around he spotted Motoko. Scrambling to his feet, he ran at her, his bloody face twisted in rage. "You bitch! You've ruined my face! You're dead when I get my hands on you!"
Still groggy, he moved much slower now, and before he got halfway to Motoko, Corey tackled him to the ground. "Give it up! You can't beat all of us! We'll keep coming until you surrender, or we bring you down."
"The hell I will!" Akira cried bringing his fists down on the top of Corey's head.
Shaken, Corey lost his grip, and Akira snaked his way out. Standing, he pulled his foot back to kick Corey in the head, when Hiroki stepped between them. "Forgot about me didn't you tubby." Then he let loose with a strong right that again rocked the big man's head back. He then leapt back before Akira could retaliate.
"Prancing little monkey!" He growled as he ran ploddingly after him. "Can't fight, so you take cheap shots and run."
"I'd rather be a prancing monkey than a lumbering gorilla." He said looking behind the bigger man as Corey climbed back to his feet. He flashed a smile, and then ran around Akira to stand beside his friend.
"Two on one huh?" Akira said glowering. "I thought Toru's bunch were cowards."
"I'm willing to call the whole thing off if you are." Corey said seriously. "That woman's hurt, and I really need to help her."
"To hell with that woman!" Akira said enraged again. "She should have thought about it before taking me on!"
"Still, to have your face messed up by a woman." Hiroki goaded. "Makes you wonder just how much of a fighter you really are."
"I'll show you just how much of a fighter I am!" He cried as he charged the pair, arms spread wide to clothesline them.
Hiroki dove to the side, as Corey grabbed an arm, swinging under it and pulling Akira to the ground. Putting the man in an arm lock, Corey yelled. "Enough! We're wasting time here! Surrender, or I'll tear your shoulder apart!"
"No!" Akira cried, anguish in his voice. "I can't let people know I was beaten by a woman! I'm the Toughest Man in Tokyo! Why couldn't she stay down? Why'd she have to be so damn strong?" Then he sagged in Corey's grasp and began weeping. Hiroki rejoined him, bringing more pieces of the rope, and secured the despondent Akira's hands behind him.
"You're lucky!" Hiroki said condescendingly, "She could have used that sword, and then you wouldn't even be here to worry about what people think."
"Another would be emperor brought to his knees." Kimiko said as she joined Seira and Motoko. "How bad is it Seira?"
"She's having trouble breathing." She replied as she guided an ashen-faced Motoko to the open door of the van and made her sit down. Corey came running up, and she added looking at him. "I'm worried for her."
"This is intolerable!" Motoko said embarrassed by everyone fussing over her. "A warrior doesn't need to be babied like this."
"Warriors are still human, Miss Aoyama." Corey said with a gentle smile. "May I remove your gi?"
"I knew it!" The samurai spat. "You men are all alike! Don't you dare touch me!"
"Do you really think I'd try anything with you like this?" He said impatiently. "You're seriously hurt!"
"If you do anything to dishonor me…" She said ominously. Then she nodded slightly, and leaned forward, grimacing as she felt a twinge from her injured ribs.
Corey swiftly undid the top, and eased it off her shoulders. Her back was purple from the impact, and Corey could feel the sharp ends of her broken ribs. "Seira, she needs a doctor. Would you run and let someone know about this?"
"Sure." She said climbing to her feet. Looking at Motoko she added with a teasing grin. "Hang in there. I'll be back before you know it. Don't go stealing my boyfriend while I'm gone." Then she took off running.
Motoko watched as Corey inspected her injury. She was sure he'd be stealing glances at her breasts, covered only by her bindings, but his eyes never left his task. She smiled at him, saying softly. "You have a gentle touch for such a large man. I'm ashamed of myself for how I treated you earlier."
"That's ok." He replied blushing slightly. "I'm used to it. People can't always help their reaction. I'm a big guy. Your friend Shinobu's response is pretty typical when I meet someone over here for the first time."
"I still want to apologize, and to thank you for your aid. You are a true warrior. You faced a powerful foe without hesitation or complaint. Look at these so-called 'tough guys'. They began crying when things went badly. Cowards!"
"Bullies usually are." Corey said pulling her gi up. "I'm limited on what I can do for you Miss Aoyama. You definitely have broken ribs. How are you feeling?"
"I'm a little woozy, but I'll survive." She replied, trying to sound assured. She paused, feeling uncomfortable talking this intimately with a man. Clearing her throat, she tried to distract herself, saying, "Seira said you want to be a doctor? I hope it works out for you. It's a profession I think you're well suited for."
"It may not happen." He said looking at her. "That's eight years of school and a residency away. I may decide to set my sights a little lower."
Kimiko walked around the back of the van, holding the blanket from inside, "Here miss, let's cover you up. It's cold down here."
Motoko smiled at her kindness, leaning forward so Kimiko could tuck it around her. "Thank you. I was getting a little chilly."
Hiroki walked up, and squatting next to Corey, said. "I tied up the guy who fainted, and I've been thinking about what he said as he was walking up. Who do you think the old man is that he said he took care of?"
"I don't know." Corey answered, his brow furrowed. "Toru didn't think twice about threatening Izumi. Maybe he tried doing the same to the guy who hired him."
"But why would that guy come forward? He'd be arrested too." Hiroki said puzzled. Looking at Motoko he flashed his best smile, and said. "That was pretty impressive the way you punched that guy. I can think of a couple of my father's associates that could stand the same treatment."
"Sorry, I'm not for hire." Motoko said looking warmly at him. "You were brave to stand up to him. Your and Seira's actions saved my life. Thank you."
"Damsels in distress are my specialty." He joked. "This is the third time I've had to protect a beautiful woman from thugs."
"Your mother must be proud." She replied smiling back at him.
"Hey! You've got a nice smile! You should use it more!" He kidded her.
"I do, but only when the occasion merits. I'm glad I got to meet all of you. You take care of each other, as friends should." She replied seriously again.
Hearing activity, Corey stood and looked over the van. Seira was hurrying back, followed by policemen, and hospital personnel pushing a gurney. "That's what you're supposed to do right? We certainly count you as a friend Miss Aoyama." Tapping Hiroki on the shoulder, he motioned for him to stand. Realizing what Corey intended, he stood next to him, following his lead. Bowing deeply to the young woman, Corey said. "Thank you for all you've done for us today. Things would have turned out much more tragically if you hadn't been here. Please accept our apology for your injuries. We truly regret your being harmed, and are indebted to you beyond our ability to repay. If we can ever be of service to you, please do not hesitate to impose on us."
"I'll be out of work after this." She replied sighing. "I'll have to nurse these ribs for awhile, and I don't think the hospital will save my position. I enjoyed my job, and I'll be sad to lose it."
"I can talk to my grandfather." Hiroki offered. "He has a lot of ventures, so I'm sure he could use an intelligent, upstanding woman like you."
"That would be wonderful, thank you." She replied bowing slightly.
Any more conversation was interrupted as the police arrived and took everyone's statement, and then took the gang members into custody. Three of them surrounding Akira as they led him away. Motoko would only allow Seira to assist her as she got onto gurney, distrusting the young men from the hospital staff. When she was secured, they quickly rolled her away, Hiroki walking alongside, getting more information from her for his grandfather. The other three followed at a slower pace.
"I feel sorry for the doctor who treats her." Kimiko said linking an elbow with her son. "She had a death grip on that katana."
"She knows better if she wants help." Corey said as Seira took his other arm. "Let's go, I'm tired of this place."
"Sure." His mother replied. "I have to call your grandmother again. I'm sorry Seira, but it looks like we'll have to postpone our lunch together. There's not enough time for you to do that and still make the game. I'll go stay with Amy and my father. Why don't you and Corey go and get your stuff and grab something to eat."
"Ok." She replied with a smile. "I've got so much adrenaline going in me right now, I don't think I could sit still at a table. There's a great okonomiyaki shop at the train station. We'll grab something there before we head to my house. Kimiko, I'm sorry you got caught up in this too."
"That's part of being a parent. Your children's trouble is your trouble. You'll understand soon enough dear."
Walking the rest of the way in silence, just happy feeling each other's presence; they arrived back at the car, where police and hospital security were still milling around. They saw Izumi look up, relief on her face when she saw them. She ran to them, hugging them all in turn. "Thank god you're all ok!"
"Why are you still here Izumi?" Corey asked surprised. "The game is in less than an hour, and you haven't changed."
"The policemen who brought me are still making their report." She replied, her shoulders slumping. "Watanabe's in some trouble for letting that woman knock his gun away. Could I come with you? Seira's house is closer, and I was hoping I could borrow something from her."
"Sure." The redhead replied. "After seeing you in action, I don't want to make you mad."
They laughed as Izumi blushed. Then they moved as a group, getting on the elevator. When they reached the lobby, the three young people exited.
"You kids have a good game." Kimiko said as they walked off. "I'll see you all later."
They waved farewell as the doors closed. "Well, let's get going. We need to hustle if we're going to get there and back in time." Corey said as they turned and headed for the sunshine waiting outside the door.
-
A/N: So, how'd you like it? Amy survived, and with the bad guys slapped down, Corey and Seira can take a deep breath and relax, right? We shall see dear readers, we shall see. Thanks for the continued interest in this story. I have over 1600 hits. Amazing for being based on a nearly ten-year-old anime. Please review, I want to make this story the best I can, and I would appreciate any input. Until next time, Ciao!