(I don't own Prince of Tennis!)

Chapter 24 – Mixed Matches

Yukimura walked alongside Mai, smiling. "You know, it's quite amazing that you managed to keep your face on despite the flirts."

"She's creepy that's why," Mai sheepishly laughed but deep down shuddered at the thought of her game. "I guess her creepiness factor sifted it out."

Sanada on the other hand found himself once again next to the captain. "You played well out there, Kurenai-san."

"Thank you, it's very kind of you to say so," Shizuru smiled meekly at the Rikkai vice captain causing him to turn thirty shades of red. "Though I must ask, what brought you guys here?"

"We're actually here for a training camp that the coaches decided to put together," Sanada inhaled deeply; her scent simply drove him crazy. "I don't understand why we're needed but Seigaku, Hyotei and Shitenhouji seem to be present for the training as well."

Shizuru turned to Hitomi. "Senpai, do we have any international meet that we weren't informed of?"

Hitomi flipped through her planner. "Atobe-san usually gets all the announcements. We should be asking him."

Shizuru sighed before smiling apologetically to Sanada. "I'm sorry; I guess we weren't informed about it. Although I'd like to ask, where and when exactly is it going to be?"

"It's supposed to be after our Kanto Regional matches," Sanada looked at his watch. "Although, the coaches thought that moving it up a bit earlier would be easier so that it won't be such a hassle for the other teams."

Shizuru nodded solemnly before thinking things through. "So, what are the girls supposed to do?"

"According to Yukimura," Sanada tried to remember the message. "He said that the girls are supposed to act as trainers as well but at some point, it was decided that the matches would be mixed."

"Wouldn't that cause a debate?" Shizuru quizzically raised an eyebrow at Sanada. "They could have separated the matches."

Sanada turned to Yukimura with an "I-told-you-so" glance. "That's exactly what I told Yukimura."

"But," Shizuru placed a finger on her chin, thinking deeply. "I think it's also nice to mix up the players. I mean – it's quite different for a change and more styles are seen. Don't you think so, Sanada-san?"

Sanada, disguising his pinkish cheeks, turned away while trying to stop his mouth from twitching into a smile. The sunset gave a good refraction of Shizuru's hair colour and Sanada saw how bright her eyes really were. Moving slightly closer, Sanada closed his eyes to calm himself down; how could he feel this way towards a rival school's captain?

Shizuru's head is like a rock; nothing penetrates it except tennis, studies and her friends' safety.

That data alone from Yanagi gave Sanada baffled the vice captain to no end. Watching the girl walk calmly next to him, Sanada wasn't sure how long he can stand talking to her calmly because his hands started shaking and even his heart began echoing in his ears. Turning back, Sanada found Niou snickering on one side and glared.

You're running three hundred laps tomorrow, Niou.

Kirihara peeked over Niou's shoulder while watching Yukimura smile intently at Sanada. Mai pointed at her dense captain mouthing something that Shizuru's too dense to even notice that he's trying. Marui began explaining some doubles tactic to Ayane and Kiyone while Jackal tried to keep their conversation at that before it became something about weird stuff like "Can you make me a strawberry cheesecake? I hear you're making Panna Cotta for Atobe."

"So, Nagisaki-chan," Yukimura glanced at the tennis court. "How do you feel about facing my sister?"

Mai shrugged but punched the air, chirping happily. "I'm sure it would be a good fight! I mean – her brother is the 'Demigod' after all."

"Well," Yukimura smiled though this was more directed to his vice captain. "I'm sure she'll put up a good fight then."

Before they could go on further, Shizuru stopped walking to watch Seigaku play their game. "You guys go on ahead, I want to see this."

Yukimura smiled at Sanada. "Make sure she gets home in one piece, Sanada."

Shizuru shook her head at Yukimura and Sanada. "Please don't trouble yourselves. I can get home just fine."

"No it's alright," Sanada leaned against the fence with her. "I would like to see what Ai-san has to go up against."

"Oh as in – Yukimura Ai-san?" Shizuru glanced at the Rikkai Dai vice captain.

"Y-yes," Sanada couldn't believe himself; stuttering in front of a second year student and a girl no less! Sanada could talk to girls but his throat ran dry every time Shizuru started a conversation. Most of their dialogues had one liners in it, causing nothing but a deep silence between the vice captain and female captain.

"There's no reason to be nervous, Sanada-san," Shizuru smiled gently. "Am I scaring you?"

"No, not at all," Sanada shook his head while watching a short haired blonde walk down from the bleachers. Unlike the others, this girl had a police cap shading her eyes while her racquet rested comfortably on her shoulder.

"Renkeikouji Atoli," Shizuru noted while Atoli spun her racquet. "She's been known to figure out weaknesses in an instant. Mai's been training hard to figure out how to beat her."

Sanada nodded as Atoli faced her opponent with a small smile. The other girl tossed her strawberry pink hair back while Atoli spun her racquet with a cocky smirk. "So, what's it going to be?"

Raising her eyebrow, she smirked at Atoli. "I'll go with smooth."

Atoli took the ball after while heading towards the baseline. She heard loud cheers from her kohai Shibuya and Ryuuzaki while the seniors nodded stiffly at her to start. Being the only second year on the team felt lonely but Atoli saw how much recognition she gained from the seniors. Fuuka had acknowledged her talent the moment she entered the club, Enma encouraged her with Midori and things just started climbing from there. Although, Atoli couldn't understand how obsessed Fuuka could get but somehow, she just wanted things to be back to normal.

It all would've stayed normal if Fuuka just told him what she felt!

0000000000000000000000000000 00

With Marui and Jackal somehow caught in the mess, Ayane on the other hand fumed while walking through the grocery store. Glancing at the products, Ayane sighed while nearly pulling out her hair. Darn, I don't even know how to make five-star Panna Cotta! I just do it the way my mom does it!

Smelling the fruits, Ayane began to weigh them a bit to see which one should seem sweeter than the other. Sighing, she placed blueberries into the basket while trying to find another fruit.

"Hey, you're making Panna Cotta," Marui loomed over while the minty green bubblegum popped at her ear. "Hmmm, who's it for?"

Ayane sighed while grabbing a pack of strawberries. "It's for a senpai at school. He asked one of my friends to tell me that he wanted one."

There's no way I'm telling him about my bet with Atobe! I'm going to personally castrate that man when I see him again!

Marui's expression brightened when he saw the strawberries. "Waah, I want strawberries!"

Jackal face palmed. "Marui, this is out of her own allowance – don't make her buy."

However, much to the Rikkai doubles one pair's surprise – Ayane grabbed a pack and put it in. "What do you like them in?"

Marui pretended to clean his ears. "Huh? What do you mean?"

"How do you usually eat strawberries?" Ayane smiled cheerfully at the red headed self-proclaimed tensai. "I'm in the mood to make something today so, what will it be?"

Marui thought about it carefully. "You sure you don't mind?"

Jackal waved his hands in front of Ayane. "It's alright; you don't have to make something for Marui."

"I want a Strawberry Shortcake," Marui cheerfully grinned; Jackal face palmed however.

"That shouldn't be a problem," Ayane got a pack of sugar before watching a pale pink haired girl walk towards her. "Hey look – it's Haruka-senpai!"

Haruka had a basket of oranges with her. "Hey, what are you doing here?"

"Getting ingredients," Ayane raised her eyebrows with a glance. You mention anything about Atobe's bet and I will make Hitomi-senpai feed you her worst concoction.

Blinking several times, Haruka shrugged lightly while getting some apples. "Well, I was planning to make some fruit juice for later on. Didn't Mai-chan tell you that she's having a party in her house?"

"She's having a party?" Ayane tilted her head to the side. "Wait, what's the theme?!"

"She didn't say," Haruka shrugged. "All I know is that many business associates and also some of the teams are going to be there. I think Yukimura-san was supposed to tell you that."

Marui and Jackal exchanged glances before shrugging. "Well," Jackal glanced at his watch. "We have a lot of time to kill so I don't see why we can't hang out a bit."

Haruka scratched her head sheepishly. "So, what do you guys do?"

"Well, I'd say hit the arcade," Marui blew up his bubblegum. "I hear that they have new stuff installed!"

Jackal sweat dropped at his doubles partner. "What do you girls think?"

"I don't mind really," Ayane shrugged while nudging her senpai. "By the way, where is Rin-senpai?"

"Rin went off to buy a dress/gown," Haruka shrugged. "Mai-chan told us that her parents wanted it to be a garden thing and it's a formal theme."

Ayane placed a finger on her chin. "Darn, which reminds me – I don't have anything either!"

Marui shrugged while looking across the street. "There a couple of dress stores here. Maybe there would be one."

"You," Ayane raised an eyebrow. "You're seriously going to go shopping with me?"

"Well, I'm gonna be there anyway," Marui blew his bubblegum, cheekily smiling. "I mean – come on, you need a guy's perspective!"

Jackal shook his head. "Do you know how gay that sounded?"

Ayane shook her head. "Well, I hope you two don't mind. Haruka-senpai, are you coming?"

Smirking to conceal her blush, Haruka nodded while looking in her wallet. "Yeah, I have enough cash."

However, at the back of Haruka's mind – it was much different. Well, time to try getting doubles pointers from the half of the number one doubles players, CHA!

Ayane shook her head as she watched Haruka's eyes somewhat twinkle. Senpai, you're hopeless. You're almost as bad as Mai-senpai when she sees Yukimura-san.

Marui pat Jackal on the back. "Hey, I bet you think Haruka-san's cute right?"

Jackal turned to him, staring at him stupidly. "Are you alright, Marui?"

"I was just asking," Marui smirked as they headed out of the grocery store until he saw a white limo pull up. "Ooh, speak of the devil..."

Ayane's eyes widened but squinted with annoyance as she marched towards it and saw Atobe come out of it. "Sure, I wonder what he wants."

Atobe spotted her the moment he got out of the car. "Arn~," –he hummed coldly. "What are you doing with Rikkai Dai?"

"I just came from the game I was supposed to play in," Ayane pointed at his chest, glaring menacingly. "I came here to get materials to make your 'thing' tomorrow!"

Atobe raised an eyebrow. "Ore-samatold you that you shouldn't have much interactions with others now didn't he?"

"Shut up," Ayane spat venomously. "You have no right to control me! You have no right to tell me who to hang out with!"

In the midst of all this, Marui whispered to Jackal. "Ooh, a lover's spat..."

Ayane twitched. "Marui-kun," –her voice sounded sickly sweet until it began rising. "WE ARE NOT LOVERS!"

"Niou would like this," Jackal folded his arms. "He likes pissing people off or watching people yell at each other."

Haruka sighed while Ayane and Atobe got into another argument AGAIN. "I'm starting to think that you guys are really made for one another."

On the other hand, Ayane flounced away. "Geez, you're pathetic! I'm not even your girlfriend, darn it!"

"Did you forget our little bet?" Atobe raised an eyebrow at Ayane, seeing that the others were behind her.

Ayane bit her tongue before something more lethal rolled out. "Well," –turning away and grabbing Marui's hand, she stomped off. "Marui-san's going to help me get something for Mai's tonight! So if you don't mind – get out of my way before I steam roll you with a backhand."

"Sure you will," Atobe smirked as Ayane bumped his right shoulder on purpose.

Jackal shrugged while following after the fuming first year. "Well, I have to make sure Marui doesn't get himself killed."

"Ayane won't kill him," Haruka noted cheerfully. "She only does that to Atobe. Marui won't be at the receiving end of her fury."

0000000000000000000000000000 00000

Niou decided to go with Isane and Momo while Yagyuu tailed behind. Apparently, Momo had to go off and find some dresses also since her cousin was dragged into a business meeting with the Nagisaki family. Niou glanced at her while she looked at the dresses.

"Hey, I thought you were a dyke," Niou raised an eyebrow. "So, why the hell are you going?"

"Niou-kun," Momo's glare rivalled Sanada's in terms of killing power. "Unless you want to lose your ability to reproduce, I suggest you shut up."

Niou shrugged while Yagyuu shook his head. "You're not supposed to say things like that, Niou-kun."

Isane began looking through the dresses. "They don't really have anything for tall girls like me."

"I'm sure they do," Momo smiled while patting Isane in the back. "They just don't know how to appreciate height when they see it."

Looking over his shoulder, Yagyuu pointed out. "What about that green dress over there?"

Unlike the other bright coloured dresses, the dress was a pale green v-neck and empire cut dress with a nice Greek influence to it. The sash trailed from behind giving anyone who wore it a powerful aura and in the middle had a golden brooch in the middle of the V. Momo pulled it out and smirking, she shoved the dress at Isane.

"Here," Momo pushed the lanky girl towards the dressing room. "Get it on so we can see if it fits right."

Isane stumbled in while Yagyuu raised an eyebrow. "Do you often shove her like that?"

Momo shrugged while looking at the other dresses mechanically. "No, I just do that when I'm excited."

"From the tone of your voice," Niou snickered a bit. "You don't seem like it."

"Go dunk your head in alcohol," Momo rolled her eyes at the Trickster. "Now I know why Genichirou's blood pressure rivals our grandfather's."

Peeking from behind the curtain, Isane twiddled with her thumbs. "Well, how do I look?"

The three gaped; Isane looked like a stick in her jersey when she actually had assets to flaunt. "Guys," Isane poked Momo. "Please don't stare. Do I look ugly?"

"You moron," Momo flicked the taller girl's nose. "You look great! Why are your uniforms much bigger than you!?"

"Well," Isane smiled sheepishly. "Truthfully, I like wide shirts."

"You're crazy," Momo rolled her eyes. "Anyhow, I can just lend you shoes. It's at my dorm anyway."

Niou glanced at the dresses hanging on Momo's arm. "Get the black one."

Momo raised an eyebrow. "Since when did you care what looks good on me?"

"Is it bad to do so?" Niou smirked at the violet haired Sanada. "Fukubuchou might get all prissy again if you don't look good tonight."

0000000000000000000000000000 0000000000000

Yukimura on the other hand watched Mai attend her dance class. He couldn't help but marvel how graceful and emotional her movements were, flowing with the music. Despite her being at the front row, the tensai stuck out like a sore thumb – literally. Chuckling softly to himself, Yukimura watched Mai kick straight up into the air before bending back and performing a bridge for the stunts.

"That's great, Mai-chan," a cheery voice approached Mai from behind. "Can you do it again?"

"The bridge isn't that hard to do," Mai smiled half-heartedly. Yukimura-kun's not the least bit impressed, isn't he?

Feeling someone grip her shoulder, Mai turned around to see an orange haired student come up behind her with an excited smile. "Wow, I get to see Hyotei's tensai here! How lucky~!"

"Sengoku," Mai rolled her eyes. "Do know that I'm trying to dance here instead of noticing you flirting with every girl in sight!"

Is this Nagisaki-chan's boyfriend? Yukimura smiled, albeit amused. If so, she's going to have a hard time.

Sengoku began looking around, whining with puppy dog eyes. "But they're all so pretty!"

"Ugh," Mai whacked Sengoku on the head, earning a yelp from the vice captain of Yamabuki. "Act your age for once instead of acting like a desperate old man!"

Yukimura chuckled inwardly, watching Mai blush with ten shades of red. Being filled with mirrors, the room managed to show Yukimura how flustered the Hyotei tensai was due to Sengoku's flattery. At the same time, he could watch how graceful her movements are compared to most of her groupmates. Looking at the bags, many of them were from the Hyotei dance club like Mai but some were from Seigaku and Rikkai Dai though most of them were from Ramusen Gakuen, Hyotei Gakuen and Taishaku Fuzoku Chuu.

I wonder though, Yukimura glanced at his watch. How long has Gen-chan been out with the other queen?

Nevertheless, Yukimura began dialling some buttons on his cellphone. It's a good start for Gen-chan to talk to Kurenai-san. She's more appreciative of silence or anything that is tennis related. However, there are times that I just want to rub this in someone's face...

After a few rings, a feminine voice responded. "Yukimura, what do you have planned?"

"I've set Gen-chan loose," Yukimura chirped happily, sensing the demonic aura on the other end of the phone. "After all, it's best she remains with an emperor and rather not with someone who doesn't care about her feelings. After all, your captain seems a bit slow on the approach isn't he, Fuji?"

"Tezuka is anything but a person who doesn't care," Fuji restrained his hiss with a smirk. "Perhaps, Sanada is exactly what I needed."

"Oh," Yukimura leaned against the wall with a 'turtle' smile, scaring anyone nearby. "Pray do explain, Fuji-kun."

"A king doesn't stop chasing after what he wants," –Yukimura could imagine Fuji's cerulean blue eyes glaring at him. "Tezuka may not be like Atobe who's more aggressive but he knows when to pull out all the stops especially when he loves someone."

Yukimura chuckled darkly. "Unfortunately, as credible as it sounds – Tezuka's a rock. You should know that."

"He's not a rock," –imagining Fuji's 'you're-dead' smile didn't bother the demigod at all. "He just needs a little push."

Yukimura glanced at his watch again, watching Mai clean up. "Very well, I will expect that then."

After this, the line died.

Pocketing his cellphone, Yukimura didn't notice Mai standing next to him. "That was Fuji-sanwasn't it?"

Yukimura chided while ruffling her hair. "You shouldn't be listening to conversations that don't concern you."

"It does," Mai pointed out flatly. "This is Shizuru we're talking about! You can't just talk about her as if she's an object to be won!"

Yukimura smiled teasingly at her, ruffling her hair. "Are you jealous, Nagisaki-chan?"

Mai scowled while sliding on her shoes. "Now, why the hell should I be jealous over that!?"

Yukimura laughed before opening the door for Mai. "Shall we go? You still need to prepare for tonight. After all, the training camp we're staying in belongs to your aunt for the next few weeks. Some of the teams don't even know that they're heading there."

I can't believe it, Mai felt her heart leap to her mouth. One whole afternoon with Yukimura-sa- I mean – Yukimura-kun to myself!

While walking along, Mai slid a bit closer to Yukimura as inconspicuously as she could. His presence alone made her knees melt and her eyes twinkled while glancing at the demigod. She shivered with delight as she imagined how he would somewhat confess to her.

Kyaaah, Mai felt a hand touch her cheek, only to see that it was Yukimura.

"Are you alright? Your temperature is rising," Yukimura smiled gently at the girl, causing Mai to keel over.

"I...I'm fine," Mai swooned at his touch. Please don't let him stop! Please don't let him stop!

0000000000000000000000000000 00000000000

"Why are we shopping for weird ingredients again," Kiyone held out a basket for Hitomi to place some vegetables in. "I mean – we don't want Shizuru-senpai to get a stomach ache before the match!"

Yanagi opened his notebook. "We also need pineapple, oranges and watermelons. That should be about it."

Kiyone's face turned slightly green as she saw wasabi, crab, oysters, pineapples, oranges and watermelons fill the entire basket. Shifting it to one side with a grunt, Kiyone turned away from the vile concoction that Yanagi and Hitomi seemed to be up to. They were throwing in all sorts of ingredients and Kiyone withheld her barf before spilling everything out.

"This is quite a recipe," Hitomi smiled business-like. "Where did you get such a nutritious recipe?"

You call this "Nutritious"!? Kiyone stood back, horrified with Hitomi's choice of words. That thing looks more like poison!

"This is Yukimura's recipe though," Yanagi got a bottle of chilli sauce. "He prefers taking things very spicy but if your teammates can't handle it – lessen the spiciness a bit."

Kiyone backed away a bit from the scheming data masters, shuddering at the results. I don't want to even try that thing! I like spicy food but not that bad!

Hitomi took a tuna from the ice packs. "Well, I hear fish has a good amount of omega three in it. I think they'll need it..."

"Getsugan needs calcium," Yanagi glanced at the smaller girl, causing the first year student to shudder. "What kind of milk has more calcium?"

"I'd go with carabao milk but it's quite addicting," Hitomi flashed a business-like smile to Yanagi. "Kiyone-chan might drink too much."

Only if there wasn't anything else in it, Kiyone withheld her puke. "Guys, are you sure we won't go bankrupt?"

"This place is owned by my parents," Hitomi smiled evilly. "I can get anything I want here for free."

Kiyone gulped, tugging her shirt nervously. "Hey, Hitomi-senpai– what are we going to do tonight?"

"It's Mai-chan's brother is coming home," Hitomi looked at her planner. "You need a dress by the way."

"I do not," Kiyone sprinted away but Hitomi grabbed her jacket. "But, I don't need to go shopping!"

Hitomi turned to Yanagi, causing the other girl to whine. "So, are we done here?"

"Yes though I'm concerned about the forty percent," Yanagi tapped the pencil against his chin.

Hitomi looked at his notebook. "Is that the success rate of Sanada being able to woo my captain?"

Yanagi pocketed his pen, sighing in defeat. "Unfortunately, yes – but the forty percent seems to have an anomaly in it. Question is: from where?"

Glancing at his notebook, Hitomi followed his calculations and recalled her captain's behaviour towards another captain. "Perhaps, a certain captain is the anomaly."

"May I know who the potential threat is?" Yanagi pulled out his pen to write as Hitomi smiled thinly at him.

Hitomi swung the basket over her shoulder as she wrote out the name.

Tezuka Kunimitsu, Seigaku no Hashira... Seigaku no Buchou

0000000000000000000000000000 0

That night, guests filled up the hallway and the dining room as Mai entranced everyone with a simple dance and a curtsy. An orchestra greeted everyone as waiters appeared on every side serving them with small appetizers. Sparkling wine glasses were distributed to others as the halls bustled with lively chatter followed by the perfect conducting of a Vivaldi's Seasons "Spring". The chandeliers glistened from every side and despite Mai's house not being as grandeur as Atobe's, it certainly almost matched up to a five star hotel.

"Nice greeting," Haruka clapped her hand as Mai went to get punch with her. "Who knew your parents can throw parties like the Atobe's?"

Mai shrugged nonchalantly, drinking down a glass. "Well, it is my brother's return after three years. My parents want to hear about his adventures in America. He works more in the Las Vegas district as an illusionist in functions and hotels. Not only that, my brother's quite the bartender and casino manager."

"Well," Ayane took a piece of garlic bread from the waiter. "He must make a lot of money then. Are there any other siblings here?"

Mai pointed out. "Nah, it's just my grandparents, eight of my cousins, mom, dad and I – why?"

All the Hyotei regulars stared at her as if Mai had grown a second head. "Can you even live with that many people in the same house!?"

"Mai," the tensai excused herself to respond to her mother. "Will you come here for a moment?"

Standing next to her mother, Mai found herself in front of very familiar faces. "Mom, are they the...?"

"Yes," the mom shook their hands eagerly. "This is Yukimura Kazuma and his wife, Yukimura Ritsu. Their children are your age, I believe?"

The blue haired woman smiled kindly. "Yes, my eldest," –she beckoned the bluenette boy to stand next to her. "This is Seiichi and his sister is Ai, she's a few months younger than he is."

Mai coughed a bit, concealing her blush at the same time. Yukimura-kun looks so much like his mother!

"Nagisaki-san," Yukimura bowed. "It's an honour to meet you."

Mai's mother giggled at the bluenette bowing, unaware of Mai's blush. "Oh, your son is so polite! Please call me Yuma-san. I'm amazed – most tennis players could be brutes you know."

"Oh that's only a few," Yukimura Ritsu waved her hand dismissively. "Seiichi is much kinder than them, am I right?"

Yukimura smiled serenely to his mother. "Yes, I prefer words to deal with them."

"Quite the intelligent one I must add," Nagisaki Yuma giggled before nudging Mai. "Why don't you introduce yourself, Mai?"

Mai bowed, blushing madly. "H-hi, I'm Nagisaki Mai."

Yukimura smiled at the red haired tensai. "Yes, I believe we've met awhile ago."

Seeing that the two engaged in a conversation, Yuma beckoned Ritsu. "So, shall we go join the others as we discuss about old times?"

"Indeed," Ritsu snuck off with a sweet smile. "I'm sure Seiichi won't really mind it."

Watching them sneak off, Yukimura laughed cheerfully. "I'm quite amazed by your party, Nagisaki-chan."

"Th-thank you," Mai waved her hand dismissively, chirping albeit too happily. I can't believe he's here in my house!

Yukimura's smile slowly changed into a 'turtle' one as he noticed his fukubuchou and a certain captain come in. "Well, well, Gen-chan's going to have some competition."

Swivelling to the direction where Yukimura was smiling, Mai saw Sanada and Tezuka following their parents around and their eyes locking on her captain's form. Shizuru, occupied as she was, didn't even bother glancing at the two who were throwing a glance at her. However, she noticed the aura next to her change into something more challenged as she watched Yukimura's eyes follow someone else's figure. Because next to Tezuka, Fuji nudged his captain who didn't show any emotion but Yukimura didn't need to be a genius to figure out Tezuka's hesitation.

Well, since they're not here, Yukimura strode smoothly towards Tezuka. "Hello, Tezuka-kun."

Tezuka nodded stiffly. "Hello, Yukimura."

However, Fuji and Yukimura had a staring match for a moment while the tensai decided to nudge Tezuka. "Saa~, I'll catch up. You go ahead, Tezuka."

Raising an eyebrow before leaving, Tezuka headed towards the punch glass table while Yukimura and Fuji smiled at one another. Their faces remained serene but the aura scared anyone who got near them. Everyone decided to ignore the two but both didn't budge or blink. Fuji smiled again at Yukimura who seemed to relax at the tension the both of them caused.

"It seems you gave Tezuka quite a push," Yukimura raised an eyebrow. "You're not going to give up now are you?"

Fuji opened his eyes, revealing an electrifying blue. "This is the first time I've seen Tezuka serious about a girl. I won't let some second rate idiot take her away from him."

Yukimura gave him his 'you'll-regret-that' smile. "Would you like to repeat that, Fuji?"

"Perhaps I would allow Oshitari to stall Sanada a bit for me no?" Fuji smiled wider. Bring it on, Yukimura.

It's on, Fuji. Yukimura's smiling face turned serious. "Niou and Kirihara are pretty good pranksters if you ask me."

"Who said Oshitari was the only man in my arsenal?" Fuji placed his hand on his cellphone. "Niou's not going to be able to keep up with Oshitari all the time."

"Niou just doesn't have Kirihara backing him up," Yukimura noted with a famous serene smile. "He's not alone in all this."

From afar, Tezuka shook his head before following Shizuru to the drinks table. His feet seemed to dig itself into the ground as Shizuru stood a metre away from him. What held him deeply rooted was that Shizuru became the only thing he could see. Her silver one shouldered gown emphasized on her figure and brought out the tone of her skin. Unlike the other extravagant balloon dresses, this one flowed straight down giving her an elegant figure.

(Tezuka's P.O.V)

I've never understood how my foot suddenly rooted itself into the floor. My throat couldn't produce anything and everything became pitch black except for her image. Taking a step forward felt like something tore my leg off. All the discipline my grandfather taught me started going down the drain the moment she stood in front of me. Heartbeats echoed loudly while my arms hung limply at my side. It's not fear then, what could it be?

You're shy, Tezuka. Must I drill that in your thick head!?

Shaking my head, I cancelled any rash feelings that could disorient my trail of thought. Kurenai-san doesn't even know what kind of effect she has on my conscience bit me hard until a soft voice called out to me.

"Tezuka-san, are you alright?"

Snapping out my trail of thought, Shizuru stood in front of me with an innocent smile while handing me a drink. "You've been spacing out for awhile."

Taking the drink, I nodded stiffly. "I was just thinking of something..."

Yeah, you were thinking about how pretty she is and how to approach her, dummy.

Be quiet, conscience. I growl inwardly to myself before taking a sip. "It's quite a party."

"Yeah," Shizuru looked around. "Compared to them, I think I'm underdressed."

Underdressed is an understatement, I bit my tongue to control myself. "You look fine, Kurenai-san."

"Thank you," Shizuru smiled, bowing. "Though, I'm not the party type... hence, I'm not sure who talk to."

Tezuka blushed slightly but forced it down again. "It's alright, it'll take time."

Quit blushing and keep a straight face.

I don't remember being assigned to a vampire; the voice mocked me from inside before it became serious. "You're human, Tezuka. I think this girl is what makes you more human than a statue everyone claims you are. Open your heart to her. Watching from afar won't do you both any good."

I shook away my conscience as I continued talking to her. Though we were walking amongst the crowd and right past the tensai, she didn't seem to notice the evil grin on Fuji's face but something bit my back as things slowly started getting better. I increased my pace while grabbing Shizuru's hand, checking from the corner of my eyes to see who it was.

"Hello Kurenai-san," a voice cut me out of my thoughts.

(End of P.O.V)

Tezuka found Sanada standing next to her though he could notice the dark glare coming from the Rikkai Dai vice captain. Reciprocating the same intensity, Tezuka made sure that Shizuru didn't notice it but Sanada's expression darkened making it almost impossible to conceal his own.

"Sanada-san, I didn't know you were here as well," Shizuru smiled at Sanada. "Who else is here with you?"

"Rikkai Dai's here," Sanada looked around, sighing as he found Marui devouring more cake. "Your entire team is here I presume?"

"Yeah," Shizuru glanced at Tezuka. "Tezuka-san, you're spacing out again – are you okay?"

Tezuka shook himself out of his glare. "Yes, I'm fine. I'm sorry."

"It's okay," Shizuru however remained oblivious to the glaring match they had over her. "By the way, what's this international match that I've been hearing about?"

Before they could respond, one of Mai's relatives stood up on the stairs. "Everyone, may I have your attention please?"

Silence filled the room as she continued. "As you know, there is always something called the Goodwill Games am I right?"

She got a murmured 'yes' as a response. "Now, what we have here today are teams from Middle Schools that would be participating in the tournament. But, this one won't be an ordinary game for it will be a mixed match between both boys and girls. This match will be held a month after the Kanto Tournament of both sides so that it would be easier to coordinate. That will be all, everyone."

After the announcement, Shizuru saw Momo calling her. "Sorry guys, I have to go. Please excuse me, my friends are calling me."

Sanada nodded, smiling a bit. "It's alright, go on ahead."

Tezuka did the same but maintained a cold stare at Sanada. Making Shizuru was no longer an earshot, Tezuka resumed to his stoic tone as Sanada smirked at him. The two stared at each other for awhile before resuming into a cold war.

"You're not usually present in parties like this," Sanada smirked at the captain.

Tezuka raised an eyebrow. "Is it just me or have you become less observant?"

"Quite a retort, Tezuka," Sanada's eyes narrowed a bit. "I remember you only going as far as one syllable."

Tezuka somewhat rolled his eyes. "Less is more after all."

Sanada curled his hand into a fist, his knuckles becoming visibly white. "Kurenai-san is someone who deserves a person who would show what smiling should be like."

"You're not the softest cotton ball in the pack either, Sanada," Tezuka felt his temper rising, deadpanning a bit.

From afar, Momo and the other seniors of the Hyotei team found Sanada and Tezuka glaring at each other. Momo face palmed as she glanced at the two boys fighting over her captain. His growling certainly caught her off guard and Tezuka's comments seemed to be a bit nastier than they should have.

"I prefer Tezuka over Sanada," Rin licked her chocolate glazed marshmallow. "I mean – he lives closer to her house at the same time, they know each other more!"

Haruka shook her head. "We can't say that for sure, Sanada and Tezuka met her and only got to know her at the same amount of time. Though, Sanada seems to be a better option considering that because Momo knows him – she can easily monitor him."

"That's true but we have their intentions also to examine," Hitomi flipped through her notebook. "After gathering some data from Yanagi and Inui, these two were her opponents back then which they've both lost hands down. It could be that they only want her as a rival."

Isane nodded while tapping her chin. "Besides, Tezuka doesn't seem to be that bad. Momo often complains about Sanada-san and if he becomes buchou's boyfriend, imagine the hell we'll have to live through everyday."

Momo turned to beckon Mai, Ayane and Kiyone to come forward. "Hey, don't you think it's about time we had an interview session?"

"I know Tezuka would win hands down," Mai folded her arms, smiling confidently. "Sanada's too much of a grandpa statue for Shizuru."

Ayane rubbed her hands together with an evil smile. "Whoo hoo, when does this start?

Kiyone punched the air. "Yay, we're going to have an interrogation for buchou's prospects!""

Hitomi's glasses glinted while she smirked. "When they become easy targets for us, I think that would be around the Goodwill Games."

0000000000000000000000000000 0000000000000000000000

The next day wasn't as forgiving as Hyotei faced off against Jyosei Shounan. Watching a cluster of pale blue uniforms fill the bleachers and the bench, Shizuru glanced at her team who warmed up even before she told them to. Their coach, Hanamura Aoi always cast glances at their direction causing the seniors to shudder and Shizuru to tilt her head simply to the left side, innocently staring back.

"Buchou," Ayane tapped Shizuru's shoulder. "She's kinda creepy. I don't think you should do that."

Kiyone cowered behind her captain as well as Doubles Two was announced.

"Doubles Two will now begin with Jyosei Shounan's Juushinhi-Tachiwara pair versus Hyotei's Sanada-Yamaguchi pair!"

Nodding to one another, the two seniors got down to face the Jyosei Shounan's doubles pair. Hitomi tilted her glasses as she recalled the first time she played against them.

Jyosei Shounan's well known for their doubles strategies, Hitomi began scribbling down notes. Tachiwara Miho and Juushinhi René's strategies often vary depending on the level of their opponent which results to their undefeated reputation. However, we don't know how well they will fare against our Diamond Pair considering Ayane and Kiyone are strong. But, we're not even sure of our own calibre.

Recalling her match when she was still a 2nd year student, Hitomi recalled the horror of their scores only to have it redeemed by the Singles Matches played by Nagisaki Mai, Kurenai Shizuru and Kotetsu Naomi. The Doubles matches showed total slaughter: 6-0 and another 6-0 even with the famous Osakada-Hikifumi pair using the Osakada Stadium technique and the Midoriyama-Sanada pair losing to their reckless strategy. However, Hitomi lowered her stance at the net as Momo began her service.

I will not have Hyotei lose again, Hitomi watched Momo's service fly past her with a lethal effect. "It looks like you used the Knuckle Serve."

"One thing I hated about these guys," Momo tossed the ball again for the second serve. "They're always bragging on how good their doubles is! Well guess what, some things just get worse and more evil!"

Mai whistled as another Knuckle Serve flew in. "Whew, she's getting nasty today, buchou. This game's ours."

"No it isn't," Shizuru's stare remained focused on the other side. "They're only waiting."

Mai raised an eyebrow as Ayane pointed out. "You notice that the baseline player is watching how fast Momo-senpai's serve is flying?"

Watching the two other players, Momo fired a normal serve causing Miho to return it quickly. Hitomi ran for a volley while René fired the shot straight for the corner. Seeing an opening, Momo cross courted her backhand towards the left side only to have Miho bend back and return it with an awkward curve. Hitomi dived for the shot as it floated towards the other side, allowing Miho to smash it.

"The probability of Momo using the Tetsu," Hitomi smirked while tilting her glasses and moving back, "is a hundred percent."

Miho saw Momo fire a second smash in conjunction with her own. Keeping a straight face, Miho switched places with René as she fired a forehand towards Hitomi who sliced it down for René to return the shot which came back as a double spin. Hitomi lobbed it up again forcing Miho to smash and allowing Momo to use the Tetsu again.

"Forty – love," the fourth smash of the rally cracked in with exploding force.

Momo began her service again but with René on the receiving end, the shot exploded straight at Momo with the effects of the Knuckle Serve.

"Forty – fifteen," René emotionlessly brushed past Miho before the other player moved over to receive.

Momo and Hitomi began another rally as Miho missed the Oto fired for the right corner.

"Game, Sanada-Yamaguchi pair: one game to love!"

Miho and René silently passed a glance to one another as Momo and Hitomi watched the two Jyosei Shounan players exchange signs. Tilting her glasses a bit, Hitomi placed a hand on Momo's shoulder nodding to her. Momo raised an eyebrow before sauntering towards the net line while Hitomi received the first serve. Miho's serve didn't fly as fast as Isane's but what got the two Hyotei regulars was Miho's trick of forcing the two to move apart with René firing straight down the middle.

"Fifteen – love," Hitomi and Momo exchanged glances in shock as the two emotionlessly changed sides.

Ayane gulped as she watched Hitomi and Momo take a beating. "Who are these guys!? Their style's so... so... perfect... Kiyone and I are nowhere there yet!"

"Their doubles strategy is something your doubles pair can't get past, Kurenai-san," Jyosei Shounan's captain, Hoshimura Florence smiled apologetically. "After all, these two are known as..."

Momo missed a forehand that bounced away from the edge of the baseline. A small smile appeared on Florence's face as she turned to the two.

"They are known as the Soul Link Pair..."

Miho and René switched sides again as they scored another point against the Hyotei pair.

"Forty – love," Momo saw the marks on the court while glancing at the two girls move emotionlessly to their appropriate sides.

Hitomi walked over to Momo, checking her notes. "Their kind of doubles means that they've surrendered a lot of their willpower then. Considering that, their movements are more robotic and the shots have become more accurate. It's as if they've trained with each other ever since they've learned how to walk. Also, this lowers our chances of winning down to twenty percent."

Momo's eyes widened. "Please tell me you're joking."

"I'm afraid not," Hitomi tilted her glasses, shutting her pocket notebook abruptly. "Unless we can achieve Synchro in such a short time then, the odds are completely against us."

Momo clucked her tongue as she watched the two stare blankly at them. "They're almost robotic in every aspect unless sweating is counted as a mechanical function."

Hitomi brightened up with an idea. "Perhaps, if we can run them out of energy before we lose...that could increase our chances by at least thirty percent."

"Perfect," Momo lowered her stance to receive. "Let's take our chances!"

Miho's serve flashed towards them but Momo managed to return it with René volleying the shot towards Hitomi. Mumbling incoherent calculations, Hitomi fired straight towards the back of the court while Miho ran it down with a forehand. Momo covered Hitomi with a long backhand but René quickly compensated for her partner, ignoring the trickling beads of sweat. Hitomi launched another deep forehand only to have Miho slice it down and run across the net, limply landing on her side.

"Game, Juushinhi-Tachiwara pair: one game all!"

Momo twitched visibly as Miho and René emotionlessly nodded to one another in recognition. I can't believe it! We've been making them run and yet, they're not even breathing heavily!

Haruka looked at the two of them. "They're not in Synchro mode – this is just plain doubles link with one another."

The others turned to Haruka as Rin began to look at René. "So, why isn't it that they're speaking to one another?"

"I've played against them before," Haruka pointed out, smirking. "That's because...René is mute."

Mai raised an eyebrow. "Wha-what do you mean!? As in, she can't speak at all?!"

Rin remembered also why they were so silent. "Oh yeah and Tachiwara-chan is blind!"

"Wh-what the hell!? Then, their playing ability must be completely abysmal," Ayane gaped at the other two.

Florence happened to overhear them. "Although their primary senses are gone, Miho has learned how to use her feet to feel out her partner's movements and also the opponents. She has trained her feet to be sensitive enough for her to see. As for René, she may be mute but as long as Miho can feel out the shots – René can go for the frontal attack. What's the use of telling your partner if she can't see? What's the use of your partner if she can't speak? Therefore, they learned how to do empathic play – which is why, they can do doubles better than anyone in the Kanto District."

A smash echoed onto the court, "Love – fifteen!"

Shizuru found Momo gasping for air, heavily as Hitomi fell over, "Love – thirty!"

Isane shook her head. "I can't believe it, they're taking a beating!"

Momo and Hitomi tried to intercept the next shot but René sent it far back to the very corner of the court.

"Game, Juushinhi-Tachiwara: two games to one!"

Kiyone gulped, holding her racquet near her. "Their formations are completely flawless; it's as if – they're reading each other's minds!"

Momo, propping herself up with her racquet, watched René perform hand symbols on Miho's hand while the latter simply nodded. The two started communicating easily though it was easy to tell that Miho couldn't see what René was saying. Her pupils had no focus and the way she stood looked like she was staring across the court. René on the other hand had lightly tapped her cheek several times to get the girl's attention.

I can't believe I'm losing to someone who's completely disabled, Momo snorted at the thought. Then again, they are a good pair.

Hitomi received René's service as Momo attacked the net against Miho. Watching the ball zip past her, Hitomi took a few steps back for a forehand but René quickly covered her back. Miho waited for Hitomi's volley while René continued attacking both players, causing them to split up in two different directions.

"Damn, they did it again," Momo pivoted around to head for the centre until Miho's shot limply dropped over the net.

Chasing after another shot, Hitomi found it crawling on the net and landing on the other side.

"Game, Juushinhi-Tachiwara: three games to one!"

Momo brushed her hair back, staring at the other court. "So, do we have any brilliant ideas or are we going to do squat?"

"That depends," Hitomi checked through her notes. "Their formations leave so many loopholes in my calculations that it's hard to tell which one they'll do next."

Momo, sighing inwardly, berated herself quietly for not being able to keep up with them. Miho and René easily got the upper hand after one service game and started beating them one after the other. The two didn't bother using any special moves and their strategies threw them off course. Seeing that it was René's service, Momo returned to the baseline to receive as Hitomi advanced to the net line.

Time to see what the mute girl can do, Momo lowered herself for the reception. The only know how I got to defeat her is to use all forms before she crashes anything else.

Seeing the serve fly towards her, Momo whizzed the shot next to René's ear while the latter simply stood there. "What's the matter? Can't return... what the-?"

Miho appeared behind her and slammed the shot back towards her with the same speed. Seeing the ball zoom towards her face, Momo tilted her head to dodge only to have a vacuum blow up in her ear. Stumbling back, the female Sanada player glared at Miho who emotionlessly walked back to the net line.

Oh wait, she wouldn't care how bad I glared, Momo sighed to herself while popping her ear drums. She copied the Oto exactly. Hmmm, interesting...

Hitomi noticed Momo's somewhat amused smirk and while it shocked the others, the data master scribbled a new set of notes. "Momo and Isane's growth rate are almost equal. At least, the both of them have learned how to deal with difficult situations."

René's serve zoomed towards Hitomi but she managed to forehand it towards Miho who lobbed it into the air. Seeing her chance, Momo jumped up, smirking at the two.

"Uncontained like water...Sui," Momo smashed the shot straight down.

Seeing a fast smash, René intercepted Miho and returned it with a lob. Hitomi took this chance to follow up Momo's attack, jumping up after Momo.

"Derail like a wave, Tsunami," Hitomi smashed right behind the two girls.

"Fifteen – all," Jyosei Shounan stared in shock at the two girls while Hitomi and Momo exchanged a smirk.

Momo shook her head disbelievingly. "Where did you come up with that?"

"If Juushinhi can return your Sui," Hitomi pointed out with a business-like smile. "Then, there has to be another technique to make sure Tachiwara can't run after it."

Kiyone bounced up eagerly from her seat. "If Hitomi-senpai and Momo-senpai keep this up, we might win!"

Shizuru remained silent throughout the entire match, shaking her head. "Yamaguchi-senpai, Momo-senpai," –she gripped her skirt. "You revealed your trump card too early..."

Seeing it as a trump card, Hitomi followed up Momo's Sui every time the two lobbed towards them.

"Game, Yamaguchi-Sanada: two games to three!"

Florence shook her head, smiling mercifully to Shizuru. "You're thinking the same thing I am, aren't you?"

Shizuru nodded stiffly as Florence turned back to watch her doubles pair. Kurenai-san isn't stupid; it's more that her senpai-tachi are too blind to see that the two girls aren't even at their full power.

Miho inhaled sharply and soon, René followed suit. Before the two Hyotei girls knew it, Miho and René were breathing rhythmically. Their eyes dulled into a deep greyish colour as Momo readied her service. Raising an eyebrow, Momo fired the Knuckle Serve and saw both players charging towards it.

"Wha," Momo backed up, horrified. Which one will strike first!?

Her serve zoomed back towards her, crashing right at the corner of the tennis court, "Love – fifteen!"

Ayane bit her lip. "This... this is their version of Synchro!?"

"Miho and René are known after all as the Soul Link pair," Florence crossed her legs. "Miho and René have also been good friends ever since elementary school which strengthens their bond as a doubles pair. They can connect with people on higher emotional levels and because of this, as a doubles pair – your set-up is as good as dead."

"Game, Juushinhi-Tachiwara: four games to two!"

Momo shook her head disbelievingly as she watched the two girls move with such synchronized breathing and steps.

Is this what Midoriyama-senpai was talking about before she went away?

0000000000000000000000000000 00000000000000000

On the other side, the male tennis teams were deciding their match-ups as each captain came forward to pull out a ballot. Atobe leaned against the backrest while watching the other schools pull out some random numbers. Whoever gets the number next to theirs will be their opponent and Atobe wanted make sure he knew what kind of players they were facing. Seigaku stood at one side while Rikkai Dai stood at another. Recalling his match with Ayane, Atobe curled his fists tightly; if Ayane could send him leagues away, what more Tezuka?

Then again, the Hyotei king stroked his chin. Ayane's playing style is very much different from Tezuka. The one with a similar style is...

"Damn," Atobe brushed his hair back, glaring sideways to Tezuka. "Why does it have to be Kurenai? They're practically the same in skill except Tezuka has a longer endurance in terms of speed!"

Oshitari tapped Atobe's shoulder. "You quit grumbling to yourself; the judges are beginning to think a rock hit your head."

"Arn~, ore-sama doesn't need to worry about things like that," Atobe smirked with his holier-than-thou tone. "Then again, ore-sama wants to make sure he knows what's going to happen in the Kanto tournament."

Oshitari looked at where Atobe was glancing. "You're the underdog compared to Yukimura and Tezuka. After all, those two are called the Stars of Japan remember? Well, Sanada being in debate for number three and you," –the kansai prodigy shrugged. "I don't know where you stand."

"Hyotei Gakuen, please step forward," –Atobe stood up, glancing at the two teams. Let's see who ore-sama will get.

Digging through the bowl, Atobe pulled out a number one. "So, who is the opposing team?"

Turning around, Atobe's eyes slightly widened when they hung Hyotei Gakuen's name next to another school's: Seishun Gakuen.

Looks like ore-sama will get his wish after all; Atobe sniggered but started twitching at Tezuka's unchanged expression. How can that man stay so calm!?

Fuji smiled deviously at Oishi. "Saa~, you'll have to impress Kobayagi-chan now."

When people saw that smile, everyone didn't want to know what the tensai planned for them. "Fuji," –Oishi inched away from the tensai. "I don't get what you mean."

"Considering Atobe Keigo is from the same school she is," Fuji opened his eyes a bit. "Don't you think she's slipping away a bit, little by little?"

Kikumaru nodded eagerly at his doubles partner. "Nyah, that's right! Ayane-chan's really sweet too! Are you just going to let Atobe take her!?"

Oishi scratched his head sheepishly. "Well...it's not that..."

Oh, then what is it, Oishi? You're going to let some arrogant monkey take her away?

Oishi glanced at the bouncing Kikumaru and the deviously smiling Fuji but shivered at the sight of Atobe's icy blue eyes staring their team down. However, he found the glare aimed at Tezuka who didn't seem to bat an eyelash or even give a hoot on what Atobe wanted to tell him.

Sometimes, I wish I was like Tezuka, Oishi remembered how many times he'd panicked while his best friend simply solved without making such a big fuss. Then again, if I did...

However, someone had to worry for the team right?

Ayane's a sweet girl and she's from Hyotei Gakuen, Oishi tapped his chin, pondering a bit. But, we're two years apart but that's not it! I mean – we're from different schools and it might sabotage some things! Then again, Ayane always cared deeply for her friends so she wouldn't rush things! But, what if I force her by accident!? No, that can't be right! Oh no...!

Later, Oishi found Kikumaru handing him a towel. "Nyah, you're worrying too much Oishi! You shouldn't worry about it! Just tell her before Atobe manages to do something nyah!"

Oishi nodded with new found determination. "That's right! Fumbling like this won't do any good! There has to be some way where I can tell her!"

Fuji, snickering in the sidelines, watched Kikumaru work his magic while he started over to Tezuka. "Saa~, so you're going to play against Atobe?"

"Aa," Tezuka nodded while Fuji snickered a bit. "What's so funny?"

Fuji smiled before turning around. "Well, other than you being so oblivious – I don't think there's anything else."

Tezuka raised an eyebrow before picking up his tennis bag while Fuji's expression became serious. "Tezuka, are you sure you want to destroy your career for this?"

"Fuji, I already made a promise," Tezuka slung his bag over his shoulder. "I will bring Seigaku to the Nationals and we will win it."

Fuji's cerulean eyes pierced through Tezuka. "What if your shoulder gives out long before you're able to fulfil your promise? Won't it be pointless as well?"

"Thank you for being concerned, Fuji," Tezuka started walking away. "But, I think I can handle myself just fine."

Watching Tezuka's fading figure, Fuji clucked his tongue as it boiled down to one conclusion.

Tezuka may not listen to me but there's someone else who might dent his thick head.

0000000000000000000000000000 00000000000000000

Slumping on the floor, Momo dropped her racquet as the ball rolled next to her. What kind of power was that? I couldn't even tell which one was going to strike first.

Hitomi breathed in sharply as she watched the two Jyosei Shounan players stare them down for a moment. What gave them this kind of power? In her years as the tennis manager and reserve player, she had not seen anyone achieve that level of Synchro except Hikifumi and Shimohi. Kobayagi and Getsugan did it while they were in a pinch and couldn't be perfected the same way they did. Their Synchro was less obvious thus surprising the opponent and snatching games from them one after the other.

Florence shook her head. "It was a valiant effort of your doubles team though... I can give them that."

Glancing at one another, Miho and René walked off the court before taking a seat robotically.

"Game and match, Juushinhi-Tachiwara: six games to two!"

Hyotei stared in shock as Hitomi helped Momo off the court. Glancing at the scoreboard, Hitomi began writing down whatever she had picked up during the match and compared it to her first set of notes. Despite their trump card, Hitomi couldn't believe how easily Momo's forms were destroyed. The Sui was avoided first to be observed and Miho picked it up immediately after it was fired. René didn't even mouth orders nor do any hand signs to the blind girl and yet, Miho quickly compensated for René's lack of speed.

"She's pretty trained," Momo downed a bottle of iced green tea. "To use her feet as her eyes is really torturing especially if your opponent is light footed like Mai and Shizuru. If they went against that pair, that's it – game over for them."

Shizuru glanced at Isane who warmed up prior to her match. "Are you sure you want to do Singles, Uchiha-senpai?"

Isane ruffled Shizuru's hair. "Don't worry about me because I don't think I'll have to waste a chunk of energy."

"Don't be too overconfident," Shizuru warned as the other player rose from the bench. "We have to bet on the Singles matches now. Doubles is Jyosei Shounan's best bet."

Haruka watched Isane go for Singles. "Wait a minute, I thought she was more of a doubles player!?"

"Why's she playing Singles again?" Rin raised an eyebrow while glancing quizzically at the second year captain.

Shizuru folded her arms. "Uchiha-senpai didn't tell me exactly..."

Momo leaned against the bench. "Well, I agreed to it. Besides, I play doubles too. I just didn't understand what's going on in Isane's head now."

Isane nodded as the next match was called out.

"Singles Three will now begin: Jyosei Shounan's Shuriki Matsuri versus Hyotei Gakuen's Uchiha Isane! Game start, Uchiha to serve!"

Isane, bouncing the ball, watched her opponent swing left and right. Alright, let's do this!

-What do you think Isane's motives are? This is the first time Momo lost in doubles and also Hitomi considering that they agreed to play doubles with one another. Anyway, if I don't get more than two reviews per chapter – I might as well start a new story and put this on hiatus. Please review!