Disclaimer: See chapter one.

Kisuragi Eight Plus One

Kimiko pulled her wallet from her purse. Flipping through her photos, she smiled when she found the one she wanted, and then laid it on the counter. "Here he is, Carl Watson, the love of my life."

Shino picked it up and studied it. Handing it back, she said. "He's very handsome. I see where Corey gets his good looks… Excuse me a moment." Stepping around the counter, she slipped into the back room. She soon returned, laying the picture from her husband's shrine on the counter. "This is Hidehiko, my late husband and Ryo's father."

"Wow!" Emma said picking it up. "I wish my ex had been this good looking. You sure were lucky to nab him." Then she passed it to her friend.

Kimiko took the picture and smiled. "He really was an attractive man. I used to watch his games and dream of meeting him someday. Then the scandal came out, and I left to play tennis." Handing the picture back to Shino, she asked. "Has it gotten any easier? Being without him I mean."

"I still miss him, but I think I'm finally ready to move on. I've been seeing someone and I really care for him." She answered, running her hand gently over the photo. "Have you met Mr. Kido yet?"

"You're dating the coach?" Kimiko asked, genuinely surprised. "How does Ryo feel about that?"

"She's happy I found someone. She also thinks I've been good for the coach. He's been trying to cut back on his drinking since I told him that I wouldn't be interested in dating him unless he did."

"Good for you!" Emma said with a nod. "My ex was a drinker from day one. I could only put up with it for so long, so I finally told him he had to choose between the bottle and me. Two days later I was handed divorce papers."

"Oh my, how awful for you." Shino said laying her hand on the blonde's. "To be cast aside so casually."

"He did it for me." She replied with a sad smile. "He knew he couldn't give up his drinking, and realized it was making me unhappy, so he let me go. The bastard's still sitting in that underground bar of his, drinking his life away. I'm just glad we never had any kids."

"You didn't want any?" Kimiko asked, looking questioningly at her friend.

"Couldn't." Emma answered before taking a sip from her tea. "My plumbing's got some kinks in it."

"I'm sorry Emily. I didn't mean to pry." The dark haired woman said blushing from embarrassment.

"It's no big deal." She said patting her friend's arm. "You couldn't have known, so don't worry about it."

"I suppose." Kimiko responded quietly. Then looking at the clock, she added. "It's already three. We should get going."

"I've really enjoyed meeting and visiting with you both." Shino said with a warm smile. "Let me put Hidehiko's picture back, and I'll walk you out." She quickly made her way into the back room and placed the picture on the shrine. When she turned back, she noticed a fat envelope lying on the floor in the corner. "What in the world?" Picking it up, she saw it was the money from the Captain. "I swear, that daughter of mine, always in such a hurry. I bet she forgot all about it." Reentering the restaurant, she walked up to them and said. "Since you two are my only customers right now, I think I'll come along as well. I won't be able to stay for the whole game, but I can close up for an hour or two. Give me a minute to shut things down."

"That'll be nice." Kimiko answered, slinging her purse over her shoulder. "We can talk more on the train."

oOo

Corey looked nervously between Seira and Mao. 'There's no right answer is there?' he thought. 'If I say yes, Seira will be jealous. If I say no, Mao will be hurt.' He swallowed hard before saying. "Well, um, you see, I think, yeah Mao, you are cute."

"What's with the hesitation Corey?" Seira said scowling. "It was a simple question. Why didn't you just come out and say it?"

"I wasn't sure how to answer…I didn't want to upset either of you, so I finally decided going with the truth was the best. I figured if you got jealous, I could deal with it afterwards." He replied rubbing the back of his neck. "Why'd you ask me that anyway?"

"Someone told me that, and I didn't believe them." Mao said quietly. "Thanks, Corey. I know you don't have a reason to lie about it."

"Sure." He replied relaxing a little. "I'm glad I was able to help. Who told you that? Be careful. Don't let him sweet talk you into doing something you don't want to do."

"Excuse me." A voice said behind them. Turning, they saw Shun leaning against the fence. "Are you ready to start?"

"Ready as were going to be." Kido said nonchalantly. "Who did you get to umpire?"

"He's someone that works in the hospital. He plays with us some days after he finishes his shift. Don't worry, he'll call a fair game." Turning, he called out. "Hey! Keiichi, come over here a second."

The young man approached, and bowed politely. "Good afternoon, I'm Keiichi Yamato. I'm glad to meet you. I met your left fielder this morning. She's a sweet girl. It's a shame she was injured like that. I hope she recovers quickly."

"Thank you. My name's Kido." He replied with a nod. "We believe she'll be able to move her legs some by this evening."

"I'll do my best to help her, Mr. Kido" Keiichi said with determination. "If things progress like I think they will, I'll have her on her feet by the end of the week."

"Someone's sure confident." Corey said frowning. "Are you some brilliant young doctor that's come up with a miraculous new treatment?"

"Hardly." He said solemnly. "I'm just a physical therapist. I can say that from reading her doctor's reports, and the fact that she's an athlete. Once she gets movement back, I'll get her down to the gym, and onto the parallel bars."

"Right." Kido exclaimed, scratching his cheek. "Nice to meet you, now let's get ready to play. Morimura, you'll lead us off. We'll follow the same order we used last year. Corey, being you're playing for Azuma, you'll bat fifth, after Himuro."

"Yes sir." He said with a nod. "I'd better start swinging a bat. Lucky for me baseball is a spring sport in the States and I've been taking batting practice after school. I'd be stiff as a board if this was happening last month."

"Here Corey, try mine." Mao said walking to the fence and retrieving her bat. Bringing it back to him she added. "It's the heaviest one we have."

"Thanks Mao. I'll take good care of it." He replied taking it from her. He then walked to a clear area and began swinging back and forth in a large arc, stretching the muscles in his shoulders and upper arms. After he finished that, he crouched in a batting stance, and swung at imaginary pitches.

Koharu and Izumi watched, studying his form. The girl from Tosa spoke first. "He's got a decent swing. Do you think he's a good batter? He's pretty big across the shoulders, so I wonder if he can get around on a fastball quick enough."

"Those boys from Hori Private were all muscles and they had a hard time hitting Ryo's pitching." Izumi answered quietly. "However, if Corey was poor at offense, I doubt he would have earned a college scholarship. We'll just have to wait and see."

oOo

"What in the hell are you saying Toru?" Makito cried rising out of his chair. "Why are you caving in? If we go to trial, we might be able to beat it. Don't give up yet!"

"No bro." He said shaking his head sadly. "It's time I grew a pair and became a man. I've been told more than once lately that I'm an idiot. I've let my pride dig me deeper and deeper into a hole." Looking at Kimura, he added. "I do have one regret about all of this Detective. I feel bad about that girl getting her back broken. We were hired to break that American's hand, but when the moment arrived, and I saw her with those two hotties from before, my crotch took over. Then that girl broke my nose, and everything became personal." Looking back to his brother, he continued. "I had a visit from your old boss earlier. He came to let me know I'd caused trouble for him and his father, and that they weren't too happy about it."

"Mr. Fujishima came here?" He asked as he slowly sat back down. "Oh man, Toru, you really screwed up getting on their bad side." He rubbed the side of his head as he thought. His face was somber as he added. "Shinosuke's pretty mellow. He'll be satisfied that the police have you in custody. His father doesn't forgive that easily. Detective, I think my brother's life may be in jeopardy."

"Don't worry about it, bro. Mr. Fujishima said as long as I do the time and leave Tokyo when I get out, they'll forget about it. It'll be ok. I'll move to some small town, maybe by the ocean. I'll hook up with a local chick and settle down. You can come stay with us in the summer."

"Dammit Toru!" Makito growled as tears grew in the corners of his eyes. "Why couldn't you have gotten your head on straight before you did this? I should have set a better example."

"Don't blame yourself Makito!" Toru said angrily. "This is all on me. You've done the best you could raising me after Mom and Dad died. You tried to tell me I was being a jerk, but I didn't want to listen. I heard you talk about the fun you had working for Mr. Fujishima and wanted to have a life like that. Only I wanted to be the one calling the shots. I finally realize I'm not smart enough to get away with it, so I want to start over."

"Mr. Fujishima never would have had us attack high school girls Toru." The elder Akimatsu replied solemnly. "He has a reputation he doesn't deserve. I hope he succeeds with his plans to legitimize his father's businesses. He's already revamped the entertainment clubs. Although I think that was due to his wife having worked in one." Looking studiously at the tabletop, he became silent as he thought about what to do next. After a few moments, he looked back to his brother as he said. "All right Toru. If you really want to do this, I won't try to stop you. Just keep you nose clean in there, and you might get out early." Turning to Kimura, he added. "Detective, I'd like to ask a favor. Would it be possible for you to see Toru is interred in a lower level prison? He's not much of a fighter. He wouldn't last a week in a maximum-security facility."

"I can try." Kimura said evenly. "I doubt the courts will be too accommodating. The list of charges against him is quite extensive, including two counts of attempted murder."

Makito sat motionless, not believing what he had just heard. Turning back to his brother, his anger rose again. "Murder? You tried to kill someone? Mom and Dad would be sick if they heard this. Toru, you deserve everything that happens to you. I'm done here, Detective. I'd better leave before I pummel this fool. Let me know when he's due in court." Then standing quickly, he moved to the door. Knocking on it twice, he was let out.

oOo

Corey looked up at the sound of a camera, and saw Peter snapping shots of him. Seeing he wasn't Japanese, he switched to English. "Excuse me. I don't like people taking my picture without asking. Would you point that thing somewhere else?"

"Sorry mate." Peter said, lowering the camera. "I figured a big strong bloke like yourself could take having his mug photographed."

"My size has nothing to do with it. I'm trying to get ready to play, and you're distracting me." Holding the bat at each end, he began touching his toes, stretching the muscles in his back and legs. "I suppose you're the Aussie photographer that Yoko knows. Aren't you a little early? They don't start playing real games for three months yet."

"The little sheila rang me up and invited me to come watch. So I chucked a sickie and came down." He replied as he was changing the film in his camera. "How come you're playing with them?"

"They needed someone to cover left field, and I was available." He replied standing up and bending his left leg. Grabbing his ankle, he began stretching the muscles in the top of his thigh. "I hope I don't let them down."

"No worries. You'll be apples. G'day, name's Peter McAllister." He said holding out his hand.

Shaking hands, the young American replied. "Corey Watson. It's nice to meet you.

"Hey Corey!" Seira yelled. "We're ready to start! Are you finished stretching?"

"Holy dooley, what a looker!" The man from Oz said when he saw her approach.

"Cool it pal." Corey growled. "That's my girlfriend you're getting all excited about."

"No fooling?" Peter said looking back at him. Then with a wide smile and a thumb's up gesture, added. "Good onya mate!"

"Thanks, I think." He replied turning back as Seira reached them. Switching to Japanese he continued. "Seira, this is Peter, Yoko's friend."

"Hi, I'm Seira Morimura. I play second base." She said, extending her hand. "It's nice to meet you."

"It's nice to meet you as well." He responded, taking her hand in turn. Then he added. "Are you the one Yoko complains about? I think I've heard her mention your name."

"Yeah, that's me." She replied with an irritated look. "I gave the little sneak a hard time because she was always goofing around or said something really stupid that pissed me off. I'm trying not to do that anymore, but she still does stuff that gets under my skin. God, I can't believe she told people about this."

"Don't take it too hard." He said with a grin. "Some people just aren't happy unless they're complaining about something. She definitely likes to talk."

"For sure. I don't know where she gets some of the stuff she says." She answered grinning back. "The team will be talking about something, and she'll speak up about something completely different."

"Morimura!" Kido hollered. "You can chat later! Get your and Corey's butts over here! You're holding things up!"

"Ok!" She yelled. Turning back to Peter, she added. "Sorry, but we have to go." Pointing at his camera, she added. "Be sure you get my good side."

"That shouldn't be hard." Peter said softly as Seira and Corey trotted back towards the others. "Every side looks good to me."

When they reached the team, she approached Kido. "Hey sleaseball, did you have to yell like that? You embarrassed me in front of Yoko's friend."

"I was just being a coach Morimura." He replied unfazed. "This game's already an hour late. We need to get things rolling, so grab your bat and get out there."

"But coach, don't we need to line up and wish them good luck?" Ryo asked, concern on her face. "It would be rude not to."

"It's not a official game Hayakawa. There's no need to be so formal." He answered, pointing at the field. "See? They're already heading to their positions. Before we start, I need to let you girls know that the captain of the other team and I agreed to some restrictions on today's game. Because of the cold weather, there'll be no stealing bases, and no blocking the base runner. This is to try and prevent you all from getting hurt. If anyone fails to honor this agreement, she'll sit out a game during the regional preliminaries. Are we all clear on this?"

"Yes sir!' They all answered crisply.

"Very good." He said looking at them proudly. Then shoving his hands in his jacket pockets, added. "Don't worry about beating these guys. Just take it easy and have some fun out there. If we do happen to win, it'll just be a nice bonus. All right, batter up, Morimura!"

The girls yelled encouragement as Seira made her way to the plate. She took a few last minute practice swings before nodding to Keiichi.

"Play ball!" He hollered as he pulled his mask down, and crouched behind the catcher.

Stepping into the batter's box, she called to the pitcher in her girly girl voice. "Hey there sweetie, don't be too rough on us, we are just high school girls."

"Forget it." He called back. "I saw you on TV last year. You're no weak little girls. You better get ready, because I'm not holding back." Then checking the sign from Shun, threw a fastball, catching the outside edge at Seira's knees."

"Strike!" Keiichi called, raising his right hand.

"Did you see that pitch?" Kanako exclaimed, wide eyed. "He throws as hard as Ryo!"

"What did you expect Mita?" Kido said taking a seat on the bench. "These are adult men you're playing, not some adolescent boys. Don't panic. He's not invincible. He can make mistakes. You all just need to be ready to take advantage of it when he does. Remember, he was throwing for two hours before we got here. He'll probably start losing speed soon."

"I was watching him earlier Mr. Kido." Corey said; his arms crossed over his chest. "I don't think he has more than two pitches. I saw him throw mostly fastballs before. They don't have much movement on them either. That's probably why he got passed over by the pros. Let the first couple pitches go by to get used to the speed, and you all should be able to hit."

"Come on Seira!" Yoko yelled. "Show him you're not scared of him. Smack that horsehide!"

The pitcher threw again, the ball waist high and inside. Seira swung, hitting a weak pop-up over her teammate's bench.

"Foul ball! Strike two!"

"Seira!" Corey yelled. "Level swing! You're dipping the end of your bat!"

"You're wasting your breath Corey." Koharu muttered. "We tried telling her that last year. She'll swing ok a few times, but then she goes right back to that same old swing."

"At least she got her bat on it." Mao exclaimed. "That's encouraging."

Seira called time and stepped out of the batter's box. Touching her toes, she did a quick hamstring stretch. Then, after taking a few more practice swings, stepped back in. Glaring at the pitcher, she waited for his throw. He grinned as he wound up and threw. The ball was off speed, and tailing away. Seira watched it come, and squared on it, bunting the ball down the first base line. Head down, she tuned everything else out as she sprinted towards safety. The girls yelled excitedly as the pitcher reached the ball. It was going to be close. He threw a bullet, the ball hitting the first baseman's glove with a loud thwack, half a second before Seira's foot thudded on the base. She was out.

Kido scowled as he watched her walk to the opening in the fence, her head hanging down.

"Nice try Seira." Ryo called encouragingly. "You almost beat him."

"Yoshimoto." Kido growled. "You're up. Get out there."

"Ok Coach." She replied, sensing he was unhappy. "I'll do my best."

"What's the matter Mr. Kido?" Corey said sitting down next to him.

"Morimura!" He called as she approached the bench. "Exactly what part of take it easy out there didn't you understand? You played that like it was the middle of summer. No more trying to beat out a bunt. I want you to swing for the fences. I'd rather see you strike out, than pull up with a strained hamstring. Do you understand?"

"If I could I would." She said through clenched teeth. "My batting's so bad, it seems the only way I can make solid contact is with a bunt."

"We'll work on that." He responded; his voice calmer but still irritated. "This is just a practice game Morimura. I don't want to see you injure yourself over something so unimportant."

Corey watched this exchange in silence. His mind working, he turned his attention back to the field as Hikaru waited for her first pitch.

oOo

"You want me to teach girls to defend themselves?" Motoko said in disbelief as her eyes grew large and a smile appeared. "I am deeply honored. I can help empower innocent young women to protect themselves from all those perverted men out there."

"It's what you've always wanted to do Motoko." Naru said with a wide smile. "Congratulations."

"What about your law degree?" Kanako said, approaching the bed. "Are you giving up on reclaiming your birthright?"

"She need not forsake her schooling completely, but she may need to take a year off." Ms. Himuro said looking at the dorm manager coolly. "This first year we will be including the junior and senior girls, and will need to have a class every period. We will also be combining classes, so you'll be dealing with approximately ninety girls in each session. After that it will be strictly the incoming freshmen class, and would only be sixty girls for three periods a day."

"That's a lot of students for one person to train, Chairperson Himuro." Motoko said, frowning. "Forgive me for requesting this, but I will need someone to help correct poor form, and to reign in overzealous students. Would you object to hiring Miss Urashima to assist me? She also is an accomplished martial artist. We have been sparring together for the last four years, learning each other's styles."

Bowing, Kanako spoke up. "I apologize for my rudeness before. Miss Narusagawa and I are not on the best of terms and I behaved boorishly. I would be honored if you would allow me to aid Miss Aoyama."

"I'm uncertain about this." Ms. Himuro replied, crossing her arms and taking Kanako's measure. "You seem to be a strong willed woman, and I'm sure you're a capable fighter. I just don't know if you have the level of sophistication required to teach at Kisuragi. Many of the parents are very selective when it comes to who's instructing their children. Also, some of the students can be cruel to those they deem below them, and I worry they may goad you into a physical response. Did you attend college?"

"No Chairperson." The woman replied crestfallen. "Since graduating high school, I've spent my time either accompanying my grandmother as she travels, or running Hinata Sou, an all girl's dormitory, when my brother is out of the country on archeological excavations."

"Then I'm afraid you're under qualified. Miss Aoyama is a graduate college student, and has the reputation and history of the God's Cry School to justify her presence there. I'm sorry, but I really don't think this would be a good idea." Turning back to Motoko, she asked. "Is there anyone else whom you could recommend?"

"It's regrettable that you feel that way about Miss Urashima. I believe she is more than capable of handling the task, but the decision is yours." The samurai replied evenly. "I can ask my sister if she knows of any recent graduates from the school that would be suitable."

"As I recall, your school is rather modest in appearance. Isn't it Miss Aoyama?" Konosuke said as he claimed the chair by the bedside with a groan. "These old legs need to rest… It was a large compound, but it made no show of being ostentatious. Your school holds to a minimalist philosophy, doesn't it?"

"That is correct." She replied. "Wealth or prestige is not something we strive for. A true samurai reveres honest poverty, and is ready to help those who cannot help themselves. I will not change who I am Chairperson. I am a sincere, hardworking individual, living a simple life, the same as Miss Urashima. If that doesn't meet the level of sophistication you require, than maybe I'm the wrong choice for your school."

Ms, Himuro looked at her in silence for a few moments before replying. "No, Miss Aoyama, I believe you are exactly what the school needs. Principal Mita recently suggested that we adopt a more self-effacing attitude. Perhaps you can teach all of us something." Turning back to Kanako, she added. "Miss Urashima, I've changed my mind. If you're still interested, I'm willing to give you a chance. You have three months to prove yourself to me. If you can complete this period without incident, I will consider extending your tenure."

"Thank you Chairperson!" Kanako replied bowing deeply. "I will strive to meet all your expectations of me!"

"The new school year starts the second week of April. Please submit your lesson plan to me by the end of March." She replied, directing her gaze back at Motoko. "You're looking fatigued. I think it best if we leave now. Rest well, Miss Aoyama." When Konosuke stood from his chair, she continued. "Are you coming Hiroki? We're going to watch the girls' game now."

"I'll be down in a minute." He said rubbing the back of his neck. "There's something I need to talk to Miss Aoyama about yet."

"Oh?" Motoko said, taken by surprise. "Other than relinquishing your possession of my sword, what could you need to discuss?"

Naru stepped forward, saying. "The doctor said you need a lot of rest, and we don't think you'll be able to get it at Hinata Sou. Mr. Takasugi was gracious enough to agree when we asked him if he would take you in… Just until you get better!" she added quickly, seeing the samurai's scowl. "You know how Su clings to you at night, and we worry she'll make things worse."

"That's almost a certainty. She's nineteen years old and still can't sleep alone. I'd like to thrash that brother of hers for making her so needy." Looking at Hiroki, she asked warily. "How many women live with you?"

"My mother is the only woman living there. Everyone else, including the security detail, and the cook, is male." He said with embarrassment. "You could have the entire guest wing to yourself. It's on the end of the building, and nobody would set foot in there."

"That is unacceptable." The swordswoman said irritably. "I might as well be in an isolation ward. I'm too used to having people around to be comfortable in such an arrangement. Besides, if one of those men decided to sneak in and have his way with me, I would be hard pressed to stop him in my current condition."

"Perhaps I can solve this dilemma." Ms. Himuro said with a gentle smile. "I can understand that you're feeling particularly vulnerable right now. My guest room is amply spacious, and I can assure you that you will be perfectly safe. Aside from my assistant, they're would be only women present. I've already invited one of my students to come live with me during her convalescence. Why don't you room with her and keep each other company?"

"Is that the girl with the broken back I met earlier?" Motoko asked, intrigued. Thinking deeply for a few moments, she finally replied. "Very well Chairperson. If you're sure I won't be a bother to you, I humbly accept your gracious offer. I don't have much in the way of clothing, so it won't be much of a bother to move in."

"If you want, I can pack your things up Motoko." Kitsune said with a grin. "I'll bring them to you tonight. That way you won't need to ride the train back to Hinata and maybe get bumped in the ribs."

"Thank you, Kitsune. I'd really appreciate that." She replied closing her eyes again. "I'm tired. Thank you all for coming to see me, but I think I need to sleep some more."

"Ok Motoko, we'll get going." Naru said with a nod. "We'll bring Su back with us tonight. Don't worry we'll make sure she behaves herself."

"See you later Motoko." Kanako added. "I'll start working on a lesson plan. Would you like me to take the Hina blade until your sister arrives?"

"Please do." She said softly. "Thank you again, Hiroki Takasugi. I apologize for any trouble I may have caused you. When next you see me, please call me Motoko." Then her body relaxed as she gave in to sleep.

"I'd say you'd made quite an impression on her." Kitsune kidded, elbowing him in the ribs as they walked down the hallway, stopping in front of the elevators. "There aren't too many guys out there she feels comfortable enough with to let them get that close."

"Then the feeling's mutual." He said grinning back. "Because she's made quite an impression on me."

"We should be heading back to Hinata." Naru said adjusting her purse on her shoulder after pushing the call button. "We all have things we need to do before coming back tonight."

"This has been a trying experience for everyone involved." Ms. Himuro interjected. "I sorry your friend was drawn into our troubles."

"She made the decision to enter the conflict, Chairperson. Her injuries are solely the result of her being who she is." Kanako said evenly as the elevator doors opened and they stepped in. "I would like to personally thank you for allowing her to recuperate in your home."

"It is to my benefit as well to have her there." She responded with a smile. "I was concerned that the girl she'll be rooming with was going to be by herself during the day. Yuki can become despondent if she's alone for too long."

They separated into their original groups as they stepped off the elevator. "One moment you two. There's something we need to do before we leave." Kanako said solemnly. Realizing what she meant, they formed a line facing Hiroki. The three women bowed deeply as Kanako said formally. "Mr. Takasugi, I will take possession of the sword now. Please accept our thanks for your part in saving Motoko."

Somberly, Hiroki took the case from his shoulder. Holding it out with his head bowed, he responded. "There is no need to thank me. It was my privilege to defend such an honorable woman."

Kanako stepped forward and grasped the case. When Hiroki looked up, he saw tears forming. "What's the matter?" He asked.

"It's finally hit me." She replied, wiping her eyes. "Motoko's my best friend and I almost lost her today." Stepping close, she kissed him on the cheek. "Thank you." She whispered, and then turning, fled across the lobby. The other two women smiled warmly as they waved and chased after her. Hiroki grinned as he watched, the crowd taking them from his sight.

"What an intriguing group of young women." Konosuke said mirthfully. "One can only wonder what it's like to live with them on a daily basis."

"The Urashima woman said she managed the dorm only when her brother is out of the country." Hiroki said in amazement. "To be the manager of an all girls' dorm? What a lucky guy!"

"I hope you aspire to greater achievements Hiroki." His grandfather said giving him a measured look.

"Don't worry about it Gramps. Tofu would never speak to me if I took a job like that." He replied grinning as they set off to cheer the girls on to victory.

oOo

Kido smiled as he observed the field. His girls were giving a good performance. Yoshimoto had hit a shallow fly ball that had dropped into left field just out of the reach of the shortstop. Hota had followed with a long fly ball the center fielder had needed to dive for to catch. Finally, Himuro had walked, advancing Yoshimoto to scoring position. Corey stepped up to the plate, wearing a batting helmet borrowed from their opponents, because none of the girls' had one big enough.

"I can't believe they're getting hits." Shun commented as the young American stepped into the box. "Our guys were having trouble just making contact with Aoshima's pitching."

"They wouldn't have made it as far as they did last year without being able to swing a bat." He replied holding his hand out, letting Keiichi know he wasn't ready. "Five hundred says we win this game."

"You're on!" the catcher replied adjusting his mask.

"Play ball!" Keiichi hollered as Corey lowered his hand.

Digging his right toe into the dirt, Corey hunkered down over the plate. His eyes narrowed as he waited for the first pitch.

Aoshima hurled a fastball at the inside edge. Corey tensed and swung, hitting a hard line drive down the left field edge. It met the ground near the outfield fence just on the outside of the line.

"Foul ball!" Keiichi called.

Izumi looked towards the bench at Koharu as she stepped back on to the bag. "It would seem we were concerned for nothing. He can definitely get around on a fastball."

"I'll say." The girl from Tosa replied wide-eyed. "That ball never got more than five meters off the ground!"

"Damn!" Corey exclaimed banging the end of the bat on the ground. "Just a little early."

"Good rip." Shun said, grinning. "You didn't have any problem reading that pitch."

"Yeah, but I need to be a little more patient." He replied digging his shoe into the dirt again. "I'm too used to hitting my sister's fastball."

"She throws harder that Goji?" The catcher said, going a little pale. "I'm glad she's not playing!"

"I'll let her know you said that. She could use a little building up." Then he turned back to the pitcher, a look of anticipation in his eyes.

Aoshima glared; annoyed he was being tagged early. Winding up, he grunted as he delivered the fastest pitch of the game. Corey fell back out of the way as it missed well inside at his shoulders.

"Hey! Watch it buddy!" Seira yelled, jumping up from the bench. "You bean him, and I'm coming out there!"

"No you're not Morimura, so sit down." Kido growled. Then standing himself, he gazed coldly at the pitcher. "Pal, try to make it at least look like you meant to throw a strike. You're catcher was set up low and outside. Any more pitches like that, and my girls are leaving. I won't jeopardize their safety to someone who doesn't have any control."

Shun stood as well, anger showing on his face. "He's right, Goji. You have better control than that. Play it straight!" Then he threw the ball back hard at his teammate.

Corey climbed back to his feet. "Haven't had to do that in a while." He commented as he brushed the dirt off himself. Looking at the pitcher, he added. "And here I thought the pros didn't want you because you can only throw fastballs. Now I see you have trouble finding the plate too." Then he reclaimed his bat and stepped back in. "You keep throwing them, and I'll keep ducking them. I'm not too proud to take a walk."

"We'll see about that." Goji called. "One ball duel!" He cried, holding the ball straight out in front of him. "If I get a strike, you sit down. If you hit, I'll leave the game."

"I don't want you to leave the game." Corey replied earnestly. "Just pitch to me and see what happens. If you get this upset about people hitting your pitching, no wonder you didn't make the pros. Every pitcher gives up hits."

"Not to teenage girls!" He shot back. "I'm being humiliated here."

"So that's it." Corey said stepping out of the box. "Listen. These aren't just teenage girls. They were one of the four best high school teams in the country last year. They're proven their abilities. Now you have to prove to us that you're better still." Stepping back in, he hunkered down as he added. "Come on Mr. Aoshima, show me your best stuff."

Shun flashed thumb's up, and got back down into his crouch. Aoshima looked around at the runners on base, studying their expression. What he saw was two girls completely focused on the game, ready to give it their all for their team. He took a deep breath and sighed. "They're behaving a lot more maturely than I am. I'm the adult. I should be setting the example, but I'm the one showing poor sportsmanship. Ok, I'll play it straight. And if I give up a hit, well I'll just have to try harder."

"That's the spirit!" Corey said with a grin. "Just don't get too attached to that ball. It won't be around much longer."

"That's what they all say!" Aoshima cried as he wound up again. He let loose with another fastball that was low and away, just missing the strike zone. Catching the return throw, the pitcher adjusted his cap, and then stared Corey down. Grinding the ball into his glove, he nodded, wound up and delivered. The ball was off-speed and waist high. Corey grinned in anticipation. The sound wood meeting horsehide echoed across the field as the ball lifted high and long to right center field. It hit the fence, and bounced on one hop to the fielder. He turned and threw to the second baseman, who relayed it to home. At the moment Corey had connected, the girls had begun running as fast as they could. Hikaru scored easily, and Izumi slid across home, just ahead of the tag. Corey had started towards third, but stopped at second when he saw how quickly they got the ball back in.

"First blood." Kido said smiling again. "Keep it going Mita!" He added as Kanako strode to the plate.

oOo

Shino adjusted her purse on her shoulder as she followed her two new friends up the drive of the hospital. "Excuse me ladies. I need to make a little side trip. I want to go see Yuki. I'll meet you at the ball field when I'm done."

"Are you sure you don't want us to come along?" Kimiko asked. "It's not a problem."

"I'd like to visit her too." Emma added. "I'm sure the girl would like some company now that the team's come and gone."

"You're more than welcome to come along." She replied, looking between the two. "I just thought you wanted to get to the game."

"They'll still be playing when we're done." Kimiko said with a smile. "I want to check on Amy as well."

"Then it's decided." Emma said linking elbows with both of them. "Let's go lift up a couple of girls' spirits." Then they headed towards the door, Kimiko grinning at her friend, and Shino a little taken back at the woman's boldness. They looked at the doorway just in time to avoid colliding with a young woman coming out, running with her head down, and carrying a shinai case. They followed her progress down the walk, until two more young women ran around them, calling after the first.

Kimiko's face became grave as she looked to her companions. "That woman was crying. I hope that's not the sword that belongs to the woman who helped us earlier. She was injured in the fight, and was having trouble breathing."

"We can ask at the desk." Emma said reassuringly. "What was her name?"

"Aoyama." She replied. "She was the heir to some sword school. It would be terrible if she died from her injuries."

"Don't worry about that Mrs. Watson." A voice said from behind her. "She'll be just fine." Turning, they saw Hiroki and the heads of their respective organizations standing behind them. "That woman's a good friend of hers and just got a little emotional. Good afternoon Ms. Hayakawa, Ms. Carter."

"Hiroki, Keiko, and Chairman Takasugi." Shino replied. "I wouldn't have expected to see the two of you down here at this time of day."

"The events of this morning were draining, so I decided to come down to see Yuki, and watch the girls play." Taking a step forward, she stopped in front of Kimiko. "Mrs. Watson, my name is Keiko Himuro. I'm the Chairperson of Kisuragi Girl's. It's nice to meet you. Your daughter is such a lovely girl. To have gone through what she did and still be so outgoing, she is indeed a brave young woman. " Bowing, she continued. "Please accept my sincerest apology for the trouble she's encountered since agreeing to come play for us. If you need anything, please don't hesitate to ask."

"Thank you, Chairperson." She replied bowing back. "I am Kimiko Watson. Amy has commented to me on your graciousness. Please do not feel responsible for this mess in any way. I am honored to finally meet you. It pleases me that she will she will be attending school under you're supervision."

Shaking her head, she smiled as she said. "There's no need to be so formal with me, ask Ms Hayakawa. Shino and I have become nearly as good of friends over the last year as our daughters have. As a former professional athlete, you aren't an insignificant person in the least. You're certainly known in more places around the world than I am. I would like to get to know you a little better. May I invite you and your mother to dinner tonight?"

"That would be lovely." Kimiko replied, returning the Chairperson's smile. "My mother will be thrilled as well. With my father injured, she'll appreciate a distraction."

"Yes, we met your mother when we stopped to see Amy. It promises to be an entertaining evening." She said, casting a glance at Konosuke. "Well, we're off to watch the game. Will we see you there?"

"Of course. Ms. Hayakawa wishes to see Yuki, and I want to check up on Amy. We'll be there shortly. Ms. Himuro? About dinner, may I also bring my friend along? She's been a source of great comfort for me today, and I would like to reward her."

Turning towards Emma, Keiko smiled and said. "Of course. Ms. Carter is welcome to come as well."

"You know about me?" Emma asked.

"As many times as my daughter watched that video of you and Mrs. Watson playing tennis together, how could I not?" She answered with a wink. "We'll see you at the game." She added as they walked away.

oOo

Shige Ozaki groaned as he regained consciousness. His eyes opened, and he gazed around the room. Monitors beeped and hummed; ready to alert help should something happen. There was a nurse adjusting the drip of his IV, and she noticed his movement.

"Oh, you're awake." She said with a smile. "How are you feeling?"

"Horrible." He said gruffly, his vocal cords irritated from the respirator used during his surgery. "But I'm alive, so I can deal with it."

"I'll let the doctor know you're up so he can check on you. Would you like a drink before I go?"

He nodded, so she poured a glass, and held it as he sucked on the straw. "Better." He said when he finished. "Thank you."

"You're welcome. Rest easy Mr. Ozaki." She said as she walked towards the door. "I'll be back soon."

He sighed as he relaxed and smiled. "I still have a chance. I can still make it up to Ryo."

oOo

The faces of the Tokyo University Baseball Club were somber. Three innings, and they had yet to come close to scoring. Their pitcher had calmed down and hadn't given up any more runs, but they hadn't had much luck in hitting Ryo's pitching. She smiled as she prepared to throw. The batter waited, the count at one ball, two strikes. She wound up and delivered a fastball low and outside. He swung, somehow connecting for a fly ball down the right field line. Yoko chased after it as it rolled into the corner. Picking it up, she quickly threw it to Seira, who spun and threw it to Izumi just as the batter slid into third base.

"Safe!" Keiichi yelled. He had moved onto the field for a better vantage point near the play.

"All right!" Shun cried as he rose to his feet. "It's about time. Ok you bums. This is our chance. We can't waste this opportunity. We need to score here. No striking out! Focus and make contact with the ball. We only have one out, so even a fly ball will bring him home. Can we do it?"

"Yeah!" Came the thunderous reply. They began pounding the fence with their bats as the next hitter walked to the plate. Ryo regarded him somberly as he stepped into the box.

"This is it girly." He said haughtily. "We're going to score, and then we're going to take the lead."

"We'll see about that." She answered as she wound up and threw. He watched as her screwball moved away from him before thwacking into Mao's glove.

"Ball!" Keiichi cried.

Ryo caught the return throw, a little disappointed. She wound up again, her fastball shoulder high and inside. He swung, smacking the ball over the fence down the third base line.

"Foul ball!" Came the call. "The count is even, one and one."

"They're starting to read my pitches." Ryo said to herself. Looking around, she spotted Hiroki, Ms. Himuro, and Chairman Takasugi climbing into the stands. "They're here! Coach said that they knew about the game, but I didn't think they'd really come. We can't lose now. We have to prove last year wasn't a fluke." Her face showing a new determination, Ryo faced the batter. She wound up, and threw a lightning ball. It sounded like a cannon shot when it hit Mao's glove."

"Strike two!" Keiichi called.

"Strewth, what a corker of a pitch!" Peter said jumping to his feet. He ran down the bleachers to the fence line, his camera ready to capture it if she threw it again.

The batter stood in shock at the velocity of the pitch. 'How the hell am I supposed to hit that?'

"Come on Taki, You can do it!" Shun called from the bench. "Just stay focused and meet the ball. You're our best batter, if you can't do it, we might as well give it up!"

He took a deep breath, and hunkered down, waiting for the next pitch. He wasn't going to go down easily. Ryo wound up and threw another lightning ball. The muscles in his arms and legs exploded, connecting with the pitch, fouling it over the backstop. The crowd, realizing they'd all been holding their breaths, released them with a collective sigh.

"He got a bat on it!" Hikaru exclaimed. "Look sharp everyone, he might just hit it!"

"Got that right." He replied. "Come on girly, give me another one. I've got the timing, I just need to make better contact!"

"That was just a lucky swing." She hollered back. "You're going down with this pitch!" She wound up; screaming as she threw another lightning ball, never expecting what was going to happen next. He swung, deflecting the ball down into the plate. The ball bounced off the rubber, striking Mao under her chin guard. She fell down, clutching her throat, gasping for air.

"Mao!" Ryo cried, running off the mound towards her friend.

The whole team converged on her as Keiichi removed her mask, and laid her on her back. Corey ran up, worry showing plainly on his face. Shun stepped up beside him. Panic showing in her eyes, Mao continued to struggle to breathe, making reedy noises as she fought for air.

"I don't think her trachea's been crushed, just bruised." Keiichi said inspecting the injury. "Mao!" He said forcefully, meeting her gaze. "Calm down! Take a gentle breath! You're just making it worse by panicking. We'll get you help, so calm down!"

She nodded, showing she understood. She took deep breaths, and forced herself to be calm. She felt her heart rate slow, and she became more at ease. The girls sighed with relief.

Kido walked up and laid his jacket over her, saying tenderly. "Let's keep you warm. Ok Daidoji?"

"Will she be all right?" Shun asked, concerned.

"We'll get her checked out." Keiichi replied standing. He ran over to his bag, and pulled out his cell, calling for help.

"I'm really sorry Mao." Ryo said kneeling down next to her. "If I'd known this was going to happen, I never would have thrown the lightning ball."

"It's not your fault Miss Hayakawa." Taki said morosely. "It was my foul tip that did this."

"Regardless of whose fault it is, I think we should call the game." Kido said grimly.

"I'll be ok." Mao croaked out. "I want you to keep playing. Corey, you can catch Ryo's pitching, right?"

"I guess, but then we're short a left fielder." He answered gloomily.

"No your not." Hiroki said walking up to him. "I'll play left."

oOo

A/N: Forgive me for taking so long to update this, but it's just getting harder and harder to move the story along. When I first started, the words came so easily, my mind envisioning scenes and dialogue all day long. Now it's all I can do to write twenty lines in half an hour. Does anyone have some tips on overcoming writer's block? I'd appreciate your sharing. Also, I'm open to suggestions to how this should end. Feel free to share. - OMS.