Hey Guys! I'm back with Chapter 10! I hope all of you will like this chapter. I honestly thought this chapter is going to get a bit intense but looks like I'll be moving that in the next chapter. Anyways, as usual ready your gadgets and get on with the reading!
Chapter 10: True Skills
''Momoko! Wake up!'' A voice yelled, shaking Momoko out of her dreamless sleep. Momoko groaned and groggily opened her eyes. ''Kaoru?'' She yawned while getting up from her bed. Both girls are now sleeping on separate beds though the bed is lower than Kaoru's since it doesn't have a stand. It was also small. but big enough for one person to sleep in. Mitsuko surprised her with the second bed which is used for emergencies like a sleepover. Needless to say, she was thankful for her kindness and promised to take care of it as long as she was here.
''It's not every day you wake up early in the morning.'' Momoko said, rubbing her eyes. ''I know it's our practice match but isn't that too much excitement?''
Kaoru rolled her eyes ''It's been a while since I've played soccer Momoko, and it is pretty rare for a girl to play one. So I'm a bit excited to play with you especially last night.'' She said while stretching her body into awakening.
Momoko cranked her neck ''You have a point there, it is a bit hard holding back my skills in sports.'' She looked down ''I never realized I've been following my parents heeds like a puppy.''
Kaoru glanced at her '' That doesn't matter, what matters is that you've finally stopped fooling yourself and fight for it.''
''Thank Kaoru'' Momoko smiled while Kaoru nodded. A knock on the door interrupted their morning exercise ''Kaoru! Momoko! Breakfast is ready!''
''Can you believe that in 2 days, it will be a week since you've stayed here?'' Kaoru grinned at her. Momoko nodded ''Time flies fast when you're happy I guess.''
Both girls walked out of the door and were greeted by Dai and Mitsuko. ''Good morning girls! Shou is still asleep so we can have breakfast first. I can always save some up for him.'' Mitsuko said, setting up the table for the girls and Dai.
''So, excited for your practice match?'' Dai asked, chewing the delicious breakfast made by his mother.
Momoko grinned ''You bet! But this one over here was too excited.'' She gestured to Kaoru who already ate half of her food. ''I was really surprise for her to wake me up since Kaoru is a heavy sleeper.''
Dai looks surprise too ''Wow, she woke up earlier than you? Well, that's a bad sign.''
Kaoru scowled at her brother ''Yeah yeah, tease me all you want but nothing can drain the excitement from me.'' She said, finishing up her food before standing up. ''I'll go take a bath first Momoko. Don't forget to bring your own soccer attire. The coach said someone will take our measurements for our jerseys before having the practice match.'' Kaoru reminded her.
''Yes, Onee-chan.'' Said orange head stuck out her tongue to her in which Kaoru curled her lips at her before going away.
Dai laughed and said ''I noticed you look pretty tired than Kaoru last night. Did you hurt yourself or something?'' Momoko noticed the real truth behind his words ''Probably about our fight with Princess.''
Momoko smiled and nodded ''Yeah, I'm fine Dai-niisan, just needs to stop being a bit too reckless now.''
Dai nodded with a smile, sending a signal to Momoko. ''Don't worry, I won't tell anyone about it. Just be careful ok?''
Momoko got the signal and giggled, glancing sideways at Mitsuko who was eating; not noticing the signals sent between Dai and Momoko.
''Momoko? It's your turn to take a bath now.'' Kaoru yelled across the hallway after almost 15 minutes of conversing and for Kaoru taking a bath.
''Be right there!'' Momoko yelled back and finished up her breakfast. ''Food is as great as always Aunt Mitsuko.'' Mitsuko smiled, waving off the compliment ''It was nothing Momoko. I'm happy to make food to someone as friendly as you.''
Momoko just grinned and nodded at her, no words needs to be spoken between the two. Momoko looked up to her as a mother while Mitsuko looked up to Momoko like a daughter. That's the understanding between the two of them and they could never be much happier.
Momoko started to walk towards the bathroom with excited thoughts ''I can't wait to show them my true skills!''
''Hey! Have you heard? There are 3 new heroes in our town! And they are working together with the PPGZ''
''Yeah I heard about it! They are also 3 boys ! I heard they were so cool and handsome!''
''Didn't they look like a bit of the PPGZ?''
''Now that I thought about it, they do have some similarities.''
''Well, speaking of the PPGZ, have you seen Blossom?!''
''Yeah I saw her! I was hiding on one of the buildings and couldn't take my eyes off of her!''
''She's gone to some drastic changes neh?''
''Yeah, but why only her? What about Bubbles and Buttercup?''
''Who cares! They still have that chemistry when I saw them fight last night! They were awesome!''
The RRBZ sweat dropped at the gossip going around their classroom. ''So, this is what it's like being a hero?'' They looked at the girls and noticed that they were chatting to each other animatedly, probably used to the gossip around them.
''Aren't you a bit bothered when they talk about your alter ego like that?'' Boomer whispered. Momoko snickered ''You will all get use to it. Why? Does it bother you?'' She teased them.
''N-No! It's just…weird'' Brick muttered. Miyako giggled ''Yeah, it bothers you.''
''So, you excited for the practice match later on?'' Butch smirked. Momoko ignored the smugness she heard in his tone ''You bet! Kaoru and I got some practice last night so you better get ready.''
''Me and my boys will kick your butt.'' Butch retorted, slanging his arms around his brothers.
''I will make sure you eat your words pigtail'' Kaoru glared at him. Butch flipped his air in an annoying away ''I like to see you try tomboy.''
''Now now, stop it you two'' Miyako said amusingly. The greens huffed and looked away.
''So Momoko, you feeling ok after yesterday?'' Boomer asked, the others also look at her for answers. Momoko smiled at them brightly ''I'm feeling ok now don't worry. I told you a good night's rest is what all it takes for me to be energized''
Boomer smiled softly ''I'm glad…'' His eyes staring at her affectionately. Momoko tilted her head at him but couldn't help but admire Boomer's continuous care towards her.
Brick and Butch cough at their blue brother who rubbed the back of his head sheepishly. ''Boomer really shows that he care. That's so sweet of him.'' Momoko smiled softly at the sheepish looking Boomer.
Kaoru then noticed a certain brown haired girl coming towards them ''Rich spoiled brat alert.'' Kaoru informed them in a whisper.
All of them whipped their heads to see Himeko coming towards them.''What now?'' They groaned. Himeko seems to be staring intently at one particular person.
Kaoru raises her eyebrow suspiciously''Why is she looking at Momoko like that?'' Momoko furrowed her forehead in confusion ''What does she want now?'' She thought tiredly. She doesn't want another Himeko/Princess mess just before her practice match start later on. She took a deep breath and greeted her.
''What's up?''
Himeko stuck out her nose up in the air as if everyone will do her bidding. ''Hello, Momoko'' She greeted Momoko, purposely ignoring the others around her. Momoko blinked,''Is this girl for real?'' Nevertheless, she nodded in greeting.
''Still cool huh? Well, let me make her face go into shock.'' Himeko simpered. She bought out a red expensive looking letter and gave it to Momoko. Momoko blinked in confusion bu accepted it a bit cautious ''What is this?''
Himeko smiled, which is pretty creepy in the sight of others''I would like to invite you for lunch this Monday at my house.'' She said, making everyone's brain stop their function. Did they hear right?
''W-what?'' Momoko sputtered out, her eyes huge in shock making Himeko smirk in satisfaction before turning into a smile ''I thought about what you said and decided that you're right.''
''Did Himeko…as in snobbish spoiled rich brat Himeko admits someone is right?'' Kaoru jaw dropped. This is a complete 360 degree turn of her personality, she smells something fishy around her and a glance by Miyako confirmed it. They scrutinize her carefully to see if she has something fishy to show but it looks like it was genuine, but their instincts are telling so otherwise.
''So why not be friends from someone who showed me the wrongs of my ways?'' Himeko continued while waiting for Momoko's answer. All of Momoko's friends dismissed it, probably thinking Momoko would decline it.
However, said orange girl was too shock to answer her. She was too busy making her brain function again. ''Is this my punishment because of last night?'' She whimpered in her thoughts but sigh. Why not give her a chance though? If her friends and the Professor gave her a chance after a year of hiding, why not Himeko too? Seeing that Momoko was too shock because of what she said, Kaoru decided to answer for her.
''Yeah, I don't thin-'' Kaoru was cut off by Momoko ''Sure I'll go with you.''
''What?!'' Her friend shouted while Himeko curled her lips into a smirk and nodded as she walked away.
''Momoko! You can't be serious about going to that….that snobbish rascal!'' Kaoru whispered to her thinking she was doing something unreasonable.
''What were you thinking Momoko?'' Miyako asked. Heck even Miyako can't take Himeko's personality.
''Are you freaking sick or something?'' Butch asked. ''What are you playing this time hag?'' Brick pursued his lip.
Boomer saw the irritated expression of Momoko and decided to cut the questions ''Guys! Let her take a breathing room sheesh, she can't answer your question at the same time you know!''
Momoko gave Boomer a thankful look before glancing back at them ''I just thought that why not give her a chance. After all, you all gave me a chance to show my true self so why not her too?''
Kaoru's nose wrinkled ''But yours are different. Himeko does not hide herself. That's her true personality.''
Momoko sighed ''Calm down Kaoru,'' A glint was then seen in her eyes ''Besides, she never said I couldn't bring some friends now right?'' She winked.
Everyone has a look of realization on their face and then Brick chuckled ''That's clever hag, real clever.''
Momoko grinned ''Thank you Brick, your compliment is appreciated.'' She said it in a different accent causing all of them to laugh.
The door opened revealing Ms. Keane ''Ok, for those who have joined the soccer club, the practice match will be after your lunch break so all of you should prepare.'' Those who have joined the soccer club nodded their heads in understanding. ''Now, let's start the lesson for today!''
After Lunch Break
''So Momoko, ready to head out?'' Kaoru asked her little sister in all but blood. She was dressed in dark green shorts and white jersey with green outlines on top. She also wore her black and green soccer shoes paired with white knee length socks. Both girls were in the changing room after eating lunch break with their friends. Miyako wished them luck and apologized for not being into sports too much. Both of them shrugged it off and said it was ok. They all have difference after all.
''Sorry I took so long.'' Momoko said sheepishly. She was dressed in black shorts paired with magenta colored jersey. She is also using her black soccer shoes with white outlines, paired with the same white knee length socks like Kaoru.
''I never thought I see the day you joined soccer.'' Kaoru shook her head. Momoko laugh ''Faint in shock when Miyako will be the one to join.''
Kaoru shrugged ''Eh, you got a point there.'' She then grinned excitedly ''Let's go!''
Momoko curled her lips into a smile ''This is so exciting! I'm finally going to show them my true skills!'' She followed Kaoru out of the changing and both girl soccer players started to head to the field.
''Hey, It's Butch and the others!'' Momoko pointed out to them ''Hey! Over here!'' She exclaimed, waving at the RRBZ and Natsuki
The boys wherein they are dressed in their own soccer attire with their respective colors: Butch has green, Boomer has blue, Brick is red, and Natsuki's brown.
''Hey girls,'' Natsuki nodded in greet while resuming his warm ups. Momoko sent him a small smile and returned the nod.
Continuing his stretching, Butch let out a small smirk ''Ready to get a beat down?'' Kaoru scoffed ''As if! I'll show you what real skills are!''
Brick and Boomer shook their heads at the greens and continued their exercises. While exercising, Momoko couldn't contain the excitement running through her veins. ''This is it! God, I can't wait to play again. I hope I didn't get rusty though but who knows? Last night was pretty much exhausting so I have to train my endurance it seems.'' Momoko then saw Miyako by the window watching, she waved at the blue eyed girl who immediately waved back with what she assumes a smile. Yup, she didn't make the wrong decision of showing her true self. Before she became one of the Powerpuff Girls Z, she used to practice soccer in her own room but she stopped it when she was hit by the white light.
''To be honest, the white light actually made me stronger than before. Maybe it has unlocked some of my powers?'' Momoko thought but then a loud whistle rang through her ear. It's time to start.
All of the people who joined the soccer club circled around the two coaches right away. ''Alright players! Before we start, have all of you given your measurement for your jerseys?'' With everyone's nod he continued ''Alright then! Let's start with some drills before a practice match. I will be assessing you and decide who will have a match with whom.''
Kaoru and Momoko looked at each other with an excited grin. Butch smirked while Brick and Boomer started to get pumped up. Natsuki's hand twitch every now and then as he kept stealing glances to the pink eyed player.
''Let's start with some drills!''
A Few Drills Later
''She's pretty good right Akira?'' The coach said to the other one. ''The orange head one?'' Akira, the second coach asked. He looked at Momoko with scrutinizing eyes, the girl was passing and scoring the ball with unbelievable precision however, she is looking rather fatigued. ''You got a point there Agata. She has real skills, her weakness will be her endurance though.''
The coach now known as Agata grinned '' That's what we are here for. She can be a beast in the soccer field. She'll make an excellent addition when we train her in endurance.'' He then switched his gaze to Kaoru who was catching the ball with her chest before quickly kicking it to Natsuki. They were doing a Shooting Agility Drill. ''She is still as amazing as ever. Kaoru may not have Momoko's precision, but she definitely makes up for it by her endurance and experience.''
Akira hummed in agreement ''Both seems to also excel in speed, strength and awareness.'' Agata chuckled ''Never thought these girls can almost beat half of the soccer club. They're girls for Christ sake!''
Akira rolled his eyes ''Even if they're girls, you can't deny the skills those two have. I can only imagine what will happen when those two team up''
Agata nodded in agreement then switched his gaze to Butch who was weaving through the cones with ease ''That new guy, he's also good, almost as good as Kaoru and Momoko. He has shown great agility too.''
''Doesn't he look like a bit of Kaoru though?'' Akira observed. Agata tilted his head and shrugged ''Hmmmm they got the same eye and hair color but that's it. Don't worry about it too much. I heard his brothers are those two.'' He pointed out Brick and Boomer who were playing the Diamond Shooting Drill.
Akira watched as Brick caught the ball Boomer kicked and they immediately switched positions. ''Those two are pretty even. They seem to have a knack for catching the ball though. In terms of being an attacker, I can say they are better than any one of the boys here except for Butch and Natsuki.'' Akira analyzed.
Speaking of Natsuki, he is doing pretty well catching up to Butch while weaving through the cones. Too bad Butch is much faster than him and already beat him to it. Natsuki gritted his teeth in anger and even challenged Butch for another round, in which Butch smirked and nodded. When doing drills, both coach let the players challenge whoever they want as long as they keep doing the drills assigned to them.
''Natsuki sure is fired up. I never seen him so pumped like that.'' Agata raised his eyebrow. ''Yeah, usually he's so calm and cool when playing soccer. This could be a great benefit to him…or would lead to his downfall.'' Akira commented at the obvious rivalry of Natsuki and Butch.
''This guy is not bad.'' Natsuki thought, gritting his teeth as he tried o go faster and faster swerving through the cones. Due to his anger, he kicked the ball too much causing it to roll away. ''Damn it!''
Butch observed Natsuki ''This Natsuki is good,'' Then he saw Natsuki's ball roll further away from him, causing him to shake his head in amusement. ''But I'm better.'' With that, he won the drill again and decided to take a breather.
Agata decided it was enough drills for now and blow his whistle ''Alright you brats! You can all stop the drills now and take a water break. After the break, we will decide who you will match up with and your team for the practice match.'' The players in the soccer club rolled their eyes. It was just day 1 of the club and their coach is already calling them a brat.
''Phew! That was some warm up.'' Boomer lay on the grass while relaxing under the sun's warmth touch. He hummed cheerfully, he loves the nature around him. It always calms him no matter what, even if he's angry, tired, or sad.
Brick and Butch eyes twitched at the action of their blue brother and was about to scold him for being so nature loving until Momoko lay beside him, also enjoying the touch of the sun.
''You're telling me.'' Momoko giggled while panting. Sweat is clearly everywhere on her body making her skin shine a bit. ''It's been a long time since I have exercised like that.''
Brick and Butch quickly kept their mouth shut and just drank their water. ''I gotta say, I missed this drills and matches. We have been busy ever since last year.'' Kaoru commented, gulping on her own water.
Momoko hummed and continued to stare at the blue sky above her. Sometimes she wonders just how vast the blue sky is. It seems so limitless and…free. Can she be like that? She sighed blissfully and closed her eyes. She doesn't have time to be all poetic or something, it's better to enjoy her surrounding as the wind blew making the moisture dripping from her body gone bit by bit. It feels so relaxing having the wind blow her exhaustion away.
''Looks like you and Kaoru have some fans hag'' Brick's voice came to her senses as Momoko lazily opened her one eye ''Hm?''
Brick pointed the school building, taking notice of the boys staring at the only girls of the soccer club. Momoko tilted her head at the direction making some of the boys look away. Kaoru wrinkled her nose but didn't comment on it. She was probably used to it by now.
Momoko gave a grin. ''Looks like we're not the only one.'' The RRBZ looked closer and also saw some girls staring at them, admiration clearly seen in their faces. ''Girls…'' Brick thought, a bit disgusted. Show a bit of sweat and talent and they are probably all over you. Good thing the PPGZ weren't like that.
Boomer flushed a bit by the attention and just continued laying down beside Momoko, everyone not noticing him scooting a bit closer to her.
Butch scoffed ''Don't they have anything else to do?'' He said exasperatedly.
''Hey! No dozing off!'' Agata yelled at the two who are settling in the soft grass. Boomer and Momoko were startled at the loud voice and looked at the source. He then quirked an eyebrow ''Are you two together or something?''
Just then, everyone noticed how close Boomer is to Momoko; Brick and Butch gave him disapproving look while Kaoru shook her head in amusement. Dai will surely throw a fit when he see this.
In a certain school, a particular green haired person sneezed ''My big brother senses are tingling.'' He muttered before going back to whatever he was doing.
Back to the field, Boomer sports a full blown blush and immediately stood up ''S-Sorry sir! It was my fault I started it.'' Agata looked at the blushing teen before exploding in laughter. Boomer looks confused yet embarrassed at the same time, he just simply offered his hand to Momoko making Momoko grab his hand with a smile and small 'thank you'
Kaoru sweat dropped, her coach from last year never change. Agata stopped laughing while putting away a fake tear from his eye. ''You don't need to be so stiff boy! I was just messing with you'' He smiled in a laid back way but then turned serious ''But I'm still serious that there will be no one dozing off after a long term of drills. It will make your exercise useless if you just dozed off.''
Boomer nodded. ''I guess he's not so bad.'' He thought. Momoko then spoke up ''We understand coach. Sorry about that.''
Agata nodded and let out a grin ''So…''
The company turned awkward with no one talking. They kept looking at each other as if someone will break this sudden silence. A vein popped at Kaoru's head 'Oh for goodness sake! Why are you still here coach? You already told the two to stop dozing off. What else do you need to say?'' She exclaimed.
Agata laughed again. ''This guy sure loves his laugh…'' The RRBZ and Momoko sweat dropped.
Agata walked closer to Kaoru and flicked her forehead ''Now I see you didn't change.''
''Same to you…'' Kaoru rubbed her forehead. Agata chuckled ''Anyways, I came here to tell you did great at the drills despite being newcomers.'' He gesture towards the boys and Momoko.
Agata then looked specifically at Momoko ''I knew I saw you from time to time at this school, so why did you join now?'' He said.
''I just thought it will be fun to join one since Kaoru seems to enjoy it so much.'' Momoko answered rather innocently. The corner of Agata's eyes crinkled ''Hmmmm…I see. A fan perhaps?'' He shifted his gaze to Kaoru ''This girl is the star athlete of the club so I can see why you decided to join''
Butch raised his eyebrows ''Star athlete huh? I'll make sure to take it from her then.''
Agata laughed while Kaoru glared ''You got some guts kid. I saw great potential from you while you do those drills. Things are getting exciting here.'' Agata grinned and went back to Momoko ''You also got some great skills, almost toe-to-toe to Kaoru here. I assumed you also know your own weakness right?'' From what he observed, Momoko seems to be a bright and observant girl and he was right when Momoko gave him a nod.
''Thank you coach, I'll do my best to overcome that weakness'' She smiled. Agata nodded then turned his gaze to Brick and Boomer ''Both of you are also good, much better than most of the players here. I can also definitely assign you two for being a goalkeeper. Keep up the good work and be ready for the practice match later on.'' He commented.
Brick and Boomer nodded in thanks. ''Well, I got to get going, still need to give some advice at the players around here.'' Agata said before walking away.
''Our coach seems really lively.'' Brick said.
''At least he knows what he's doing.'' Butch remarked. With that, they continued resting and conversing with each other, unknown that someone is watching them.
With Natsuki
Natsuki gazed at the blue eyed teen laying beside Momoko ''So, he thinks he can get closer to her huh?'' His eyes flickering in mischief ''We'll see about that.''
He then looked around the field ''Looks like we need to spice things up.'' His shadow started flickering and red eyes appeared on it before closing.
After the Water Break
''Alright! Time's up for the break!'' All players stopped their break and faced their coach, excitement on their faces. Agata chuckled at that and continued speaking ''We are going to start the practice match! This will be a 3v3 practice match wherein one will be the goalkeeper while the other two will be the attacker.''
Everyone nodded in understanding and listened to their coaches. Akira cleared his throat and started calling out names. ''Ok! First team we have…''
''Ok so for the last practice match!'' Akira shouted loud enough for everyone to hear. ''1st team will be Brick, Butch and Natsuki. For the 2nd team we have Momoko, Kaoru and Boomer. Both teams have 3 minutes to assign which goes who and if you like, some strategy also.'' Akira said, clearly memorized what he was going to say.
Both newly formed teams nodded and went to their respective teammates for this practice match.
Akira drank from a bottle of water after using his voice so much. ''Do you really need to say it so loud?'' Agata chuckled. Akira rolled his eyes ''I don't want to repeat myself.'' He said ''So, why put these teams together?'' He asked.
Agata looked at the 2 teams who seems to be strategizing. Momoko seems to be conversing with Kaoru for some strategy with Boomer suggesting sometimes. The other group seems a bit…disorganized. Butch and Natsuki seems to be fighting over about something while Brick is calming them down. Agata nodded respectfully at Brick who took charge, Butch and Natsuki begrudgingly listened but still shoots glare at each other.
''Brick and Boomer, I separated them because I want to see if they can be the goalkeepers of this club. I can see potential to them at that.'' Agata explained while Akira nodded in understanding. ''Next is Momoko and Kaoru, you would probably think I would let them fight each other right?'' Agata asked Akira in which he agreed. ''But no, I decided to see their chemistry in the field. Skills is not just what matters in soccer and you know that Akira. We were teammates after all.'' Agata grinned ''Anyways, both are skilled in soccer we all can see that so instead of competing them aginst each other, why not watch their chemistry in the field? It could probably benefit them both, covering each other weaknesses and all that.'' He explained.
Akira may not show it, but he was in awe at the other coach. Agata may be laid back and well... lively, but he can really be observant and can think of a plan and formations in a snap of his fingers. Maybe that's why he was deemed a better coach than him. ''Now, how about Natsuki and Butch? Wouldn't be teaming them up together may cause some problems due to their newly formed rivalry.'' Akira asked. Everyone can sense the rivalry sparks between the two but didn't say anything. Now, it was Agata's turn to speak
''That's the purpose.'' Agata grinned making Akira look at him questioningly. ''Rivals push each other to the limits and well always compete against one another. This could very well be a motivation to push each other even more and overcome their limits.'' Agata explained then he gained a serious look ''I took a gamble of putting those two together, because if they decided to not work with each other, they will surely lose.''
Akira gained a look of realization. He was almost sure that Momoko and Kaoru have the best chemistry out of all and now Agata is pitting them against Natsuki and Butch in which both are rivals. It's like Agata doesn't want either Butch and Natsuki to push past their limits, Agata wants them both to overcome it together by making them show how much teamwork can do, in that case Momoko and Kaoru's chemistry. Agata was right, skill is not just the important factor in soccer, but also the teamwork chemistry between each player.
Akira looked at his watch and whistled ''Ok team! Time's up!''
''Let's do this Kaoru, Boomer!'' Momoko said cheerfully, excitement dancing in her eyes.
Kaoru nodded ''Let's show them who is the better team!'' She punched her palm.
Boomer gave a thumbs up ''Don't worry girls! I got your back.'' He winked at them in which the girls nodded thankfully.
Brick sighed as the glaring contest between his two teammates continued.''I swear the coach is punishing me or something.''
Butch sneered ''He thinks he's better than me? He got another thing coming.'' He then saw him glance at Momoko who yelled 'Let's do this' Butch narrowed his eyes at the want the he saw in his eyes ''I'm going to pluck his eyes out.'' He growled.
Natsuki smirked, further aggravating Butch ''I'm going for the goal right?'' Butch scowled at his question ''Who said you are going for the goal?''
Brick gritted his teeth, his anger quickly bubbling up to its limits, ''Will both of you just shut up!'' He exclaimed ''Just make sure you distract them and team up for goodness sake!'
''Yeah, sure whatever.'' Butch grumbled before going at the middle in position. Natsuki narrowed his eyes but decided to let him be for the sake of the practice match. After all, he wanted to see just how skilled Momoko is.
Brick frowned ''If those two can't get past their differences just this once,'' He looked at them who kept shooting dirty looks to each other ''We're screwed'' Brick exhaled but readied his hands. He better keep a closer eye on how the two girls will move.
Akira walked at the middle with a coin in his hand. ''Heads or Tails?''
''Heads'' Momoko answered while Butch nodded signaling that they are Tails.
Akira nodded and tossed the coin before catching it. He unclenched his hand and said ''The ball goes to Momoko's , even if this is a practice match, give it your all. Agata and I will be analyzing your every play so don't disappoint us.''
Both teams bobbed their heads as Momoko set the ball at her foot and nodded at Kaoru who nodded back.
''I'll be taking Momoko, you take on Kaoru.'' Butch said, almost like a demand. Natsuki narrowed his eyes ''Why should I listen to you? I can guard whoever I want to.'' He said in a cool voice.
Butch scowled at him ''Fine, whatever. Don't come crying after me when they get past you.''
Akira blew the whistle starting the match. Momoko passed the ball to Kaoru who began dribbling it towards their goal. ''Weird…Why aren't they defending me?'' Kaoru thought, her two opponents seems to waiting for something. Is this some kind of plan? Anyways, seeing that they are not defending much, she picked up her speed with the soccer ball steady on her feet. Seeing that Butch will not budge, Natsuki growled and started to run after Kaoru
Momoko frowned at the poor defense they are showing ''What are they doing?'' Shaking her head, she also began running to provide some distraction for Kaoru.
Brick growled at his two teammates ''What the heck are you two doing! Defend her!'' Natsuki threw a quick glare at Brick ''Can't he see I'm running?'' Too late though, Kaoru got close enough to kick the ball towards the net behind Brick. Fortunately for the other team, Brick followed the ball with perspective eyes and caught it. ''If I was a second too late, I would have not made it.'' He thought.
Agata threw a look at Akira who nodded. Brick can be a great goalkeeper.
''Come on you two! Put your heads in the game!'' Brick shouted. Butch gritted his teeth, he thought Kaoru would pass the ball to Momoko and just readied himself to intercept it, looks like he was wrong. But he's not the only one with that thought. Natsuki shook his head and gestured at Brick to throw it at them. They need to start getting some points.
Brick threw the ball high, Natsuki was about to go and get it but Butch quickly snatched it with his chest and started dribbling aggressively towards the goal. Natsuki cursed but started to run in a good angle for Butch to pass it to him in case he got trouble.
Kaoru immediately got to Butch and started to run against him. ''Think you're so tough?'' She said while panting, her feet trying to get the ball away from him. Butch smirked ''Yes, I think I am.'' He crosses over Kaoru making her get past him. Momoko saw that and didn't know whether to keep an eye out on Natsuki in case he passed it to him, or go to Butch because he was nearing towards the goal. Seeing the frustrated look on Natsuki's face, Momoko dashed towards Butch, knowing he will not pass it to Natsuki.
''She's pretty fast!'' Butch thought in surprise, Momoko closely ganging up on him.
In a fair enough distance, she started to predict where Butch will continue dribbling. She started to slide in order to get the ball out of his grasp.
''Oh no! She's too close for me to jump.'' Butch analyzed, there was still a fair distance between him and the goal but he got to try it. Instead of passing it to Natsuki who was wide open, he kicked the ball high in the air, too high in fact but that can give him enough time.
Momoko's eyes went round as she slid past him. After Momoko went past him, Butch immediately jumped; Synchronizing his timing as the gravity did his job making the soccer ball fall rather fast. At a right angle, Butch performed a bicycle kick and shot it towards the net.
Being the toughest of the brothers, Boomer knew that he could not easily catch it but he still tried. The ball was going towards the net behind him…and fast. Boomer tried to catch it, but the key word being tried is still there as he ball whoosh passed him by the side of his head.
Butch smirked ''That's 1-0 now princess. Better try harder next time.''
Momoko pouted at him and said ''I'll get you back!''
Boomer sighed and sent an apologetic look at his two teammates. Kaoru gave him a thumbs up while Momoko smiled at him.
Agata and Akira stayed quiet, Butch was good but their expression hardened at the smug and frustrated look on Butch and Natsuki's face respectively. They will need to work on that.
Boomer grabbed the ball and threw it towards Momoko, Momoko caught it easily and with newly gained confidence, she started to dribble it towards their goal. Natsuki was on her right away, doing his best to keep up with her speed and corner her.
Momoko knew Natsuki was looking for an opening due to the calculating eyes he is using. She then saw Kaoru waving at her, Butch immediately noticed it and dashed forward Kaoru. He could intercept it if he can so he better be ready.
The adrenaline Momoko was feeling was incredible! And this was just a practice match, well Akira did say to give it her all. Now, how can she pass the ball to Kaoru? Momoko looked down and saw a small opening, but an opening nonetheless. Kaoru took notice and nodded at her signaling that she's ready and that she trust her.
Agata smiled ''There's that chemistry.''
Momoko took a deep breath and focused, this is a very risky pass but she has to do it. Momoko narrowed her eyes and observed while keeping Natsuki out of her zone.
Step….Step….Step….
Momoko snapped her eyes wide opened and with a precise kick, the ball zoomed towards Kaoru.
''Fast!'' Butch thought in shock, it was like a blur! He tried to move but the ball went between his legs and Kaoru caught it just in time before going to the side trying to find a spot to shot it. Butch snapped out of his stupor and ran towards Kaoru. Both greens were evenly match and Kaoru knew she needed to pass it or else she's going to go out of bounce. She cranked her neck slightly to see Momoko running very fast
''Kaoru! Pass it to me!'' Momoko yelled, outspeeding Natsuki for a moment.
Kaoru nodded and was about to pass it but Butch caught on and blocked her way. ''It's not going to be that easy.'' Butch smirked. Kaoru quickly got the hold of the ball and thought ''I'll show him!'' With a battle cry, she spun to her left but Butch realized it, so instead of continuing dribbling, Kaoru faked the spin and kicked the ball rather high towards Momoko.
''Crap!'' Kaoru cursed. Momoko widened her eyes a bit before quickly gaining her composure. She jumped as well and performed a rather high scissor kick as the ball went through between Brick's leg. The sound of a ball hitting the net was prominent.
Almost everyone jaw dropped, Momoko performed a rather high skilled technique! It all happened so fast though. Kaoru shocked eyes dissolved before a wide grin sported her face. ''Awesome job Momoko!'' She yelled.
Agata and Akira had their mouth open in shock, they knew she was good but wow! The accuracy and vertical of hers was clearly astounding. She was just a newbie on the club and yet she's already climbing her way up on being a star athlete on par of Kaoru's level!
''Those two will be a beast.'' Agata chuckled.
The RRBZ looks at her in surprise and admiration. That was amazing skills she has! Natsuki's eyes sparked in adoration, yeah this is the real Momoko he is seeing.
''Amazing…'' Miyako whispered from the classroom, almost everyone was at the window watching the practice match before them. ''Why did she hide this superb skills! Man, I bet she and Kaoru will no doubt be the star athletes of the club!'' Eric exclaimed. A girl glared at him and said ''Hey! Don't forget about Butch! Did you see how he single handedly take care of the two?'' The girls eyes sparkled making some of the girls nod in agreement. Miyako only sweat dropped at them and continued watching.
The practice match continued on, Butch and Natsuki are still giving each other dirty looks and the girls decided to use it to the advantage. They stole the ball some of the times or the other times Boomer will catch it. Brick did his best trying to prevent the ball going in the net but his two teammates are making it harder for him. Nevertheless, he caught the ball enough times for the score to be even.
In the end, Momoko's team won as Akira blew his whistle ''That's enough! The six of you did a great job and showed true skills in the sports of soccer.'' He turned his gaze to Brick and Boomer ''You two could probably be the best goal keeper around here from the way you showed it to us. Great job and welcome to the team.'' Brick and Boomer nodded in thanks with Boomer adding in a bright smile.
Akira then turned his head to Momoko and Kaoru ''You two are probably one of the best athletes around here. Your chemistry to each other is amazing and you showed superb skills in handling plays and alike. Great job and welcome to the team Momoko.'' He let out a small smile at the girl. Kaoru smirked and nodded while Momoko bowed in thanks.
Agata stepped forward and gave a stern look to Butch and Natsuki ''Butch, Natsuki, I can't deny the skills and awareness you have respectively, they are great! but your constant pride and rivalry keeps getting in the way.'' He turned his gaze to Butch ''You have amazing skills Butch, probably one of the best also.'' Butch grinned then set into a frown at what he said next ''But your arrogance may be your downfall, you don't need to do this all by yourself. You have something called teammates.''
Butch scowled ''I can work with anyone coach, just not him.'' He pointed to Natsuki. Agata then turned his head to Natsuki ''And you Natsuki, I admire your knowledge and analytical abilities but you need to trust Butch more also. Don't deny it since you tried to keep the ball more to yourself a few times in the practice match.'' Natsuki frowned but didn't say anything.
''You two could be a great team, but your pride and competition is getting out of hand. Skills are important, but so is teamwork. You better work on that.'' Agata said in a serious tone before lightening up his face. ''Anyways! Great job soccer club! You've showed amazing skills and techniques. I can't wait to work with all of you!'' Agata's voice rang through the entire field like a microphone.
''That's enough practice for now! Go rest and regain your strength. We will inform you when will be the next practice.'' Akira also shouted.
A loud response of 'Yes' rang through the field as they started to walk away. The RRBZ, Momoko, and Kaoru started conversing with each other with bright smiles and teasing gestures. Natsuki looked on with fury dancing in his eyes.
''Oh, they are not going away unscratched.'' Natsuki growled and summoned the shadow from earlier.
A scream behind the 5 heroes was heard as they turned around. They then saw a shadowy black wisp monster controlling all the soccer balls and throwing it at the people around. ''What's going on?!'' Akira yelled before getting hit by a soccer ball causing him to skid around the field. ''Akira!'' Agata called out but he too got hit by the soccer ball.
The 5 heroes nodded to each other and ran off, finding a hiding place. They grabbed their compacts and transformed.
''Powerful Blossom!''
''Powered Buttercup!''
''Hard Brick!''
''Explosive Boomer!''
''Strong Butch!''
''Powerpuff Girls Z!''
''Rowdyruff Boys Z!''
''Wh-what's that thing!'' Eric exclaimed as he and the other students watch in fear at the havoc the monster was causing. Miyako immediately went out seeing that no one was paying attention to her. She grabbed her compact and transformed.
''Rolling Bubbles!''
Bubbles saw her 5 friends and went to their side. ''What happened you guys?'' She asked. All of them shook their head. ''We were just about to rest until that monster appeared out of nowhere.'' Brick answered her.
''Do you think it's the same one from before?'' Buttercup asked. Blossom looked at the wispy monster's glowing red eyes and nodded ''It seems so. Let's roll guys!'' She said, the leader aura pouring out of her. All of them nodded in agreement and flew towards the creature. But before that….
''Hold it right there!'' Blossom yelled causing the monster to look at them. ''We are the fighting power science legend!''
''Powerpuff Girls Z!''
''Rowdyruff Boys Z!''
They exclaimed while posing, the students who are watching started to cheer.
''See! I told you we have three new heroes joining the PPGZ!''
''What was it they were called?''
''I think it was Rowdyruff Boys Z''
''Not bad! It suits them!''
''Look at Blossom! She looks so different!''
''Yeah you're right! She looks so powerful and cool!''
''What are you talking about? All of them look powerful and cool!''
''We're saved!''
Boomer cut out their pose and rubbed the back of his head sheepishly ''I will never get tired of that.'' He admitted causing his friends to chuckle at him.
The monster roared, putting out the light atmosphere they appeared in. It threw the enhanced soccer balls at them in which Bubbles took action.
''Bubbles Catcher!''
A string of ball sized bubbles swallowed the soccer balls and floated. The monster screeched in anger and shot out its tendrils towards them. Blossom intercepted it with her yoyo while Buttercup flew around and smashing them with her trusty hammer.
''Bro! Cover for me!'' Boomer yelled in a rare moment of seriousness. Butch gritted his teeth, he was still not over working with Natsuki and that still stung his pride.
''Red Slash!''
A glowing red beyblade cut out the tendrils that are targeting Boomer and Butch. ''Butch! Snap out of it and help us!'' Brick yelled. Butch shook his head, this is his brothers for crying out loud! Why was he hesitating? ''This is stupid.'' Another set of tendrils started to go after Brick and Boomer. Butch growled and readied his flute.
''Hypnotic Wave!''
Butch played his flute and directed it towards the tendrils. The tendrils immediately stopped their assault and started hitting each other. They're confused! Boomer took the opportunity to shoot his arrow towards the monster's head as it his between its eyes. It yelled in pain and slumped down as more tendrils shooting out of its body but was confused by Butch's attack.
Blossom looked at Butch with a smile and saw his strained face. She nodded in understanding and said ''Alright everyone! Butch can't hold it much longer so we better finish it right now!'' Blossom looked at Boomer with a grateful look for the shot that clearly weakened the monster. Boomer gave a beaming smile and started to charge his next attack.
Blossom twirled her yoyo and yelled. ''Spinning Choco-fudge!''
''Bubbles Popper!'' Bubbles let out a string of many energized bubbles. Buttercup smirked and smashed the end of its hammer on the ground ''Megaton Dunk!''
Brick and Boomer nodded at each other and decided to use a collaboration technique. Boomer put his power on the arrow making it glow blue and shot it. ''Spinning Devil Shot!'' Brick yelled, his beyblade dashing around Boomer's arrow.
All attacks came in contact at the monster as it shrieked in pain before dissolving into black particles and the wind blew it away. The tendrils also disappeared making Butch collapse in exhaustion. ''That was tiring.'' Butch muttered. Blossom beamed and hugged him from behind ''That was incredible! I didn't know you could do that.'' She grinned, teasing him.
Butch turned red for a bit but smirked ''I can show you more than that princess.''
The students cheered behind them, sending out congratulations and thank you's along the way. There were even some saying I love you but they ignored it and just waved at them with a humbled smile before flying away.
''Man, am I exhausted. '' Buttercup said slouching at the changing room with the others.
Blossom sighed and sat next to her '' Tell me about it. Drills, the practice match and that monster too! It sure is tiring.''
Bubbles giggled at them and said ''You better get dressed you guys, let's go to the Professor's for some snacks.'' She suggested as all of them nodded eagerly. All of that sure made them feel hungry.
''Well, we better get change girls, let's meet at the gate ok?'' Brick said while stretching his back. The girls nodded in agreement before they went away.
''I'm going back to the class now, I'll see you guys later!'' Bubbles smiled before undoing the transformation and walking out of the room.
''Well, let's get going.'' Blossom said as she and Buttercup also undo their transformation as they began to change.
At Momoko's house
''Honey did you feel that?'' Kakiko said, her eyes closed.
Hachizou nodded gravely ''This power…it's dark. It must be the work of the one who's after Momoko.''
''I hope she's alright.'' Kakiko mumbled, clasping her hands together. Hachizou's face turned steel '' We are going to get her.''
Kakiko looked at her husband ''But she's in school!''
Hachizou took a deep breath ''We can't keep worrying ourselves. I don't want to see Momoko get captured by him. We are going to get Momoko, whether she likes it or now.''
Kakiko's eyes widened ''B-b-but Hachizou! She told us specifically to not go after her! We need to respect that.''''I don't want Momoko getting much angrier than us now...''
Hachizou's eyes softened remembering that moment but he shook his head ''No…We also can't break our promise to Hino like that. We have to do it.''
Kakiko sighed, there's no convincing her husband right now. She only prayed that Momoko will not get angrier and just let them explain. But could they really tell her the true reason?
And cut! This was a fun yet frustrating chapter to write, I have to study a bit about soccer so that you all can understand it for a bit but I hope you all get the gist of it! As always R&R guys and don't forget to favorite!