(I don't own Prince of Tennis only the OCs!)
ChocyPockyStick: Hi thank you for the review! Honestly, I had a hard time in keeping up with the timeline so I made my own. The consistency of the story – thank you for telling me because it's been quite a problem. I'm glad you're fond of Shizuru now. Honestly, I tried my best to make sure she wasn't a Mary Sue because her tennis skills are great and her grades are salutatorian level (her Geometry sucks though! XD). But there will be times that Shizuru will have her downfalls such as her injury, inability to express her true feelings and maybe a few things. Also, I'll do my best to fix them. The reason why I made the tennis scenes long is because it was recommended by writers who wrote similar fics. They suggested to write details so, I tried and I think I'm somewhat failing. Hence, the reason why I sometimes cut the tennis match and make a side story in between so I don't bore my readers to death! XD I'll try my best to match the timeline which is why from this chapter going out – I'll try to match it which means I MUST READ THE MANGA AGAIN! XD Thank you for reviewing! The reason why I wanted to stop was because no matter how many hits I got, it didn't rival the amount of reviews. No one told me what was wrong with it.
Jaria: Ah yes, the enigmatic captain of Hyotei! I will reveal her life soon. Well, I will give you a little challenge: try to see who will be the one to know the most about her. You can narrow it down. ;P
ZeniaFlower: Actually, I want to find a beta but I'm very... well... random in submission. So, I don't want to burden my beta with my erratic scheduling. ^_^
TennisFreakyCrazyPerson: I'm not insulted but I'm glad you had the "balls" to tell me such. I have read it before and yes, I've been trying to reach that kind of quality but unfortunately, I'm failing miserably as you can see from the review. But, there will be changes after that. But, the reason why I made her beat Atobe was to give another stepping stone for his Sekai no Koori. Everything has to come from somewhere. Believe me, her denseness is something that I made to cover something but some people don't see why. Shizuru is somewhat a semi-mary sue. For many reasons why, one is that: she can't express her emotions properly, she's AFRAID of many things, she's physically disabled at a certain degree: she's flat footed which means she has no arc and has to wear corrective shoes for such and it drains her stamina faster and she did gain an injury that renders her weaker than most of her members. She has to remain perfect after all in the eyes of her teammates but there will be times that she will crack. Also, she didn't beat Sanada but he mentioned something of a "lucky shot". Yukimura did mention that her skill was almost at par with his. Tezuka didn't lose to her either considering that even though she dragged him out to several games, she still slumped in the end. But I'll try my best to fix my fanfic. It's quite a challenge to me to make something like this and this is my first. I'm sorry if she sounded too Mary Sue. I'll be displaying her flaws as the chapters go on.
Thank you for your reviews! They are always greatly appreciated even if I don't respond!
Chapter 25 – Climbing Over a Wall
Alright, so it's Shuriki Matsuri, Isane inhaled deeply before starting her service. "You don't look the least bit afraid."
"Your serve clocks around at an average of 180 kph," Matsuri pointed out, bending her knees low. "Its accuracy though is sacrificed for the power."
Taking an aim, Isane tossed it up. "That's not necessarily true..."
The ball disappeared only to leave a mark on the intersection of the three courts. The students gaped at the speed and the smoke it left behind. Matsuri however didn't seem the least bit rattled by the speed of Isane's serve. Standing up straight, she licked her own finger and put it up in the air.
"The wind is coming from my side therefore your serve's real speed should have been 195 kph," Matsuri moved to the other side. "Despite the headwind, I'm surprised your serve can still fly at that kind of speed. The accuracy's increased a bit as well but the power is not as what it used to be."
Hitomi tapped her chin with her ballpen. "Shuriki Matsuri is the data girl of Jyosei Shounan but I didn't know she could get accurate readings like that."
"Despite not being labelled as an "Angel of Kanto"," Mai bit her lip, warily watching Isane go for another serve. "She sure plays like one."
Matsuri forehanded Isane's serve while the taller girl backhanded cross court. Forehanding it back to Isane, Matsuri dashed to front as Isane dropped it over the net. Watching the taller girl's eyes, Matsuri stood on one leg as she moved to the other side to volley it back to Isane who missed it by accident.
"Fifteen – all," Matsuri nodded while turning back.
Uchiha Isane, you may be deemed as the Most Unpredictable, Matsuri glanced at Isane who got ready to serve again. But, you're nowhere as unpredictable as Florence!
Isane's serve cracked off again as Matsuri backhanded a heavy shot towards Isane's left side. Despite the tall girl's lanky form, she managed to return it without much effort while Matsuri had to run after the shots. Stepping back, Matsuri returned it with a top spin while Isane exploded it with a cross court forehand.
I can't let her come near the net, Isane ripped the ball even harder with a backhand. If there's one thing about Shuriki Matsuri when Hitomi-chan first played against her, it's her stamina that sucks. Hitomi -chan made sure she kept running around but even she lost stamina before Shuriki-san did. I guess this is why Shizuru-chan called our height an ace card...
Matsuri, ignoring the trickling beads of sweat, sent a ground smash towards Isane who repelled it with a forehand. She couldn't bring Isane forward despite the speed of her rallies. Her legs started feeling like lead as she dashed to the left side.
We can't lose now, Matsuri controlled her breathing while she forehanded another shot. My body's giving out but we can't always rely on our Doubles Pair to win for us! Tachiwara and Juushinhi may have won but the only one who can play Singles well here is Hoshimura-buchou! Tousaka's dead against Nagisaki considering that she's no tensai! This game... ends now!
With a heavy smash, Matsuri brought it down only to bounce high up in the air and have Isane crack it down in return.
"Thirty – fifteen," Matsuri backed up as Isane landed softly on the ground.
"Uchiha Isane, third year student and classmate of Shishido Ryou and Mukahi Gakuto, now can jump at least two feet off the ground," Matsuri began scribbling down. "For someone who's tall," – referring to Isane, smirking. "You sure know how to control your centre of gravity."
Isane shrugged, smiling cheerfully. "Well, I want to change the stereotype of freakishly tall girls. Most tall girls people say are clumsier than an elephant."
"It's eighty nine percent true," Matsuri sauntered back to the baseline. "But, there are a few exceptions to the stereotype."
Isane tossed the ball up for another fast serve. Seeing it vanish, the crowds stood aghast as Matsuri closed her eyes.
So, it's too fast even for the naked eye to perceive, Matsuri moved forward. But, there's one thing I know about her style of serving... the land point is too common!
Matsuri returned Isane's service but another fast shot came and the data girl stumbled back to lob it. Jumping for it, Isane smashed right for the corner while Matsuri managed to return it with a low drop shot which smacked the net.
"Net, forty – fifteen," Matsuri fell on the ground, breathing heavily while Isane walked over to her.
"You okay?" Isane extended her hand from the other side. "You wanna have a timeout first?"
Matsuri stood up, hanging her head. "There's a seventy two percent chance that Uchiha will be able to score with the next serve. Her right side has become increasingly unstable..."
She's in her own world, Isane shuddered a bit while walking back to the baseline. One serve ought to end that...
Tossing the ball, Isane served only to have it hit the net.
"Fault," everyone's eyes widened at this.
Isane clucked her tongue as she stared the court down. Okay, one bad shot. Try another...!
I won't let you, Matsuri rushed forward to see the shot until it zoomed past her, spinning as it left the court.
"Game, Uchiha: one game to love!"
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On the other side, Hyotei Gakuen entered to face their current opponent: Seigaku. Gakuto and Oshitari were warming up as Kikumaru nervously waited for Oishi to come. Atobe threw a glance at Tezuka who was also looking for Oishi who was usually with Tezuka when he came to the courts. No one really expected Momoshiro to show up; after losing the ranking matches and skipping practice, Tezuka had suspended him for three weeks. Momoshiro got stuck then with the grunt work so, it was no obligation for him to come.
"Buchou," a loud voice came from behind, causing everyone to turn around in shock.
Momoshiro came running with a regular's jacket on, breathing heavily. "Buchou, Oishi-senpai's on the phone."
Taking the cellphone from Momoshiro, Tezuka heard out Oishi. Nodding after every few seconds, the team waited for Tezuka's response as Kikumaru nervously fidgeted. Then, the phone got passed over to Momoshiro who also began nodding in response to whatever Oishi was telling him.
"How's Oishi, nyah?" Kikumaru turned to face his ever-stoic buchou. "What happened?"
"He's in the hospital," Momoshiro bit his lip to make sure he didn't say anything else. "There was a pregnant woman who needed help..."
The regulars exchanged glances until Kawamura sheepishly scratched his head. "Well, that's really Oishi after all."
Kikumaru brightened up immediately. "Nyah, he would never leave anyone in need! So, what now? We can't forfeit Doubles Two!"
"Momoshiro will play," Tezuka glanced at the second powerhouse of the team. "He will play temporarily for Oishi."
Momoshiro nodded as he pulled out his racquet. "Alright, let's do this, Eiji-senpai!"
Despite being a bit reluctant, Kikumaru gave them a 'v' sign cheerfully. "You betcha we will, Momo-chan!"
From afar, Hyotei saw Momoshiro and Kikumaru going down the stairs. Gakuto raised an eyebrow as he watched Momoshiro take his place behind Kikumaru.
"They're sending a makeshift," Gakuto snorted, resting his racquet on his shoulder. "Who do they think they are!?"
Oshitari placed his hand on Gakuto, trying to calm down the magenta haired acrobat. "I'm sure something happened to their other player. This should be easier for us."
Despite what he said, the kansai prodigy couldn't help but notice the cheerful look on Kikumaru's face. For someone who was devoutly loyal to his doubles partner, Kikumaru didn't show any disdain for playing with Momoshiro. After all, Oishi was supposed to be his opponent while Gakuto sealed off Kikumaru.
"Doubles Two will now begin: Hyotei Gakuen's Oshitari-Mukahi pair versus Seishun Gakuen's Momoshiro-Kikumaru pair! Game start, Momoshiro to serve!"
Things started getting ugly at one point; Gakuto sealed off Kikumaru's movements almost completely and despite Momoshiro's Jack Knife and Dunk Smash combination – Oshitari retaliated with Fuji's Higuma Otoshi. Kikumaru jumped forward for the volley only to have Gakuto send it right over his head and score behind him. Momoshiro found both his techniques sealed by Oshitari as he continued to counter every part of the strategy they were making up.
"Game, Oshitari-Mukahi: one game to love!"
Momoshiro, heavily breathing, stood up as he returned Oshitari's service. However, Gakuto leapt forward with the Moonsault, stunning Kikumaru for a moment and gaining the point.
"Game, Oshitari-Mukahi: two games to love!"
"Momo and Eiji are being completely pushed back," Fuji opened his eyes to observe the match carefully. "Gakuto may be able to return the Jack Knife because he throws his body weight around but not many people can repel the strength of the Dunk Smash the way that Oshitari can."
Kawamura watched Momo send another heavy backhand only to have it returned by Oshitari. Gakuto focused on sealing up Kikumaru's movements with fast attacks which continued to gain points again and again. Slamming it towards one side, Oshitari attacked the open side both Momoshiro and Gakuto had allowing them to gain the next point.
"Game, Oshitari-Mukahi: four games to love!"
Seeing this, Momoshiro recalled his conversation with Oishi. Momoshiro, taking a sneak peek, turned to Kikumaru with an assuring smile. Kikumaru recognized that kind of smile and went to the very front, shocking everyone as they saw Momo start at the very end.
"THEY'RE GOING TO DO THE AUSTRALIAN FORMATION!?" The whole crowd stared at Momoshiro and Kikumaru as if the two had lost their mind.
He intends to replace Oishi, Oshitari smirked while watching Momoshiro take his position while Kikumaru stayed right at the net.
"They're going to do the Australian Formation," everyone stared agape.
Gakuto snorted while kicking the dust. "They can't do one formation just like that! You can't learn a formation in minutes!"
"That's true," Oshitari smirked while lowering his stance for Momoshiro's serve. Momoshiro after all can never take place of a person.
Seeing Oshitari stand at the other side, Momoshiro fired the Bullet Serve as the kansai prodigy returned it with a forehand to Kikumaru. Gakuto found Kikumaru's volley floating right in front of him and smashed it straight towards the red haired acrobat.
"I'll show you the meaning of someone being better than you," Gakuto sniggered until he saw Kikumaru stretching the other way. "What the world---?"
Kikumaru volleyed it over, forcing Gakuto to lob and allowing Momoshiro to jump up for the smash. "Go for it, nyah!"
Momoshiro brought it down. "This is it, Dunk Smash!"
The shot exploded right in between Oshitari and Gakuto, causing the magenta haired acrobat to stumble back.
"Fifteen – love," Momoshiro and Kikumaru exchanged a high five.
Oshitari raised an eyebrow while Gakuto stared in shock. "Wh-what the hell was that!?"
Smirking while rolling down his sleeve, Momoshiro revealed scribbles on his arm. "Out of the 36 rules of doubles, Oishi said something about rule number 6..."
It won't work with strength alone.
When Eiji is attacking support him from the back, return the ball in between the two opponents. (Courtesy of )
Seeing a new formation, Gakuto turned to Oshitari. "Do you have any new ideas?"
"Right now," Oshitari clucked his tongue, smirking again at the makeshift pair. "This is just getting interesting."
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"Game, Uchiha: three games to love!"
Isane managed to pull off another service game with her Sniper Serve. However, her body started tilting over from time to time. Seeing Matsuri go jump for a serve, Isane took a few steps back while getting ready to sprint. The moment it cracked off, Isane lunged forward as it bounced towards her face. She sidestepped instantly to backhand it but Matsuri cross courted a forehand towards her left corner. Digging her shoes to the ground, Isane returned with a lob while Matsuri smashed the ball straight at the baseline.
"Fifteen – love," Isane breathed heavily as Matsuri brushed her hair back.
Matsuri walked to the other side, smiling slyly. "You've lost fifty percent of your stability already."
"Just because I did doesn't mean I won't be able to return the next shots," Isane lowered her stance. "Give it all you got."
Momo whistled to herself. "Whoo, this is the first time I've seen Isane so fired up. Shizuru-buchou, what happened to her at camp?"
She did triple her training right under our noses, Shizuru smiled inwardly. "Well, it seems Isane-senpai decided to train well enough for the Nationals while she was there. Her Sniper Serves are more accurate and her stability has increased drastically, am I right?"
Hitomi flipped open her notebook. "Her stability has increased by seventy five percent, her accuracy and speed have increased three fold of what it used to be and let's not forget that Isane's footwork has increased by at least thirty nine percent. She's improved despite training only for three weeks."
Seeing another fast serve, Isane lunged forward for a dashing forehand which caused Matsuri to stumble back for a return. Seeing it smack the net, Isane rushed the net with a light lob, causing the ball to drop right in front of the net.
"Fifteen all," everyone couldn't believe what they were seeing.
"Uchiha's rushing the net!? Wow, what hit her head!?" One of the guys exclaimed loudly from the stands. "I mean – doesn't she usually play Doubles with the creepy Mastermind?"
"Yeah but rumour has it she wanted to redeem herself," another whispered excitedly. "She was one of the Queens before!"
Isane returned with a hard backhand, seeing Matsuri run it down. She skipped to the other side, knowing that Matsuri shouldn't move forward. After all, despite playing Singles – Isane knew one thing: she hated the net not just because of her height since it made her vulnerable but also what had happened to her last time. Biting her lip, Isane attacked the corners, forcing Matsuri to run in different directions. Finally, Matsuri stumbled which allowed Isane to score with a cross court backhand.
"Fifteen – thirty," Isane rested her racquet on her shoulder with a smile.
Feeling strained on her wrist, Matsuri massaged it a bit before returning to the baseline. She's really finishing me off. But, she's not even supposed to be a Singles player...
"Before we start," Matsuri began bouncing the ball. "I want to ask you something."
Isane raised an eyebrow. "Hm, what is it?"
"You're a doubles player by nature," Matsuri smirked while Isane stared at her.
Isane shrugged nonchalantly. "That's not a question."
"No, the question is: why aren't you playing doubles?" Matsuri tossed the ball, firing a fast service. "I thought your partner was that Yamaguchi girl or Sanada-san."
Isane prepared to receive, watching the ball come at her. "Because I wanted to test something, after all – I wanted to have more room..."
"More room to do what," Matsuri shook her head as Isane's form changed into someone much smaller. "So, this must be your famed Illusion technique. But, don't you usually use it in Doubles?"
The ball clipped on top of the net as a very unorthodox form came into play. "Gekokujo," –a second year male ace stood, smirking in Isane's place. "It's applicable to Singles as well."
Kiyone slapped her own forehead. "Isa-Isa-senpai changed into Hiyoshi-senpai!?"
"Hiyoshi is known for his fast reflexes after all," Mai recalled all the times she had worked with him in his dojo. "Stupid kid knows how to dodge bokuto with the way he's training."
Hitomi scribbled down furiously. "Isane is now able to adapt to the Enbu Tennis style, seeing that her reflexes match Hiyoshi's. How Isane managed to copy Hiyoshi is quite a feat..."
"Did she ever play against Hiyoshi before," Momo tapped her chin. "As far as I'm concerned, she never did."
Haruka poked the air, stroking her chin. "Well, she did see you play against him during our practice matches. Hiyoshi's stance is so unorthodox even a mimicker like Kabaji won't be able to copy it that easily. Hiyoshi's style is similar to yours after all, Momo."
Mai leaned against the bench. "Mushroom head may have a funky style but he has no rhythm. Actually, as soon as you increase your reaction time – shifting and testing new forms won't be as damaging since you just have to fuse your reaction time training to it."
Hiyoshi (a.k.a. Isane) returned the shot with quick reflexes making Matsuri run around even more. With one tap, Isane/Hiyoshi forced Matsuri to come to the front and volley until she froze at the next image that Isane pulled out. From the short second year ace, Isane became a short kid with a cap on.
"Mada Mada Dane," Isane's voice became pitchier like a certain cocky regular.
Momo stumbled back, aghast at Isane's form. "Oh crap, she just changed into Echizen Ryoma! But, I thought she can't change instantaneously?"
"She conquered her lack of mimicry right under our noses," Shizuru watched Isane skid on the floor, performing a Drive B. "Isane-senpai could only copy those she truly knew and could use it only once per game because of the way it chews up her stamina. However, Isane-senpai switches between forms so it's easier for her to stun the opponent thus lessening her consumption of energy."
Ayane punched the air. "Go senpai, we can take them on! Just don't transform into Atobe!"
Watching Matsuri dash forward, Isane transformed again but not without noticing the amount of sweat pouring down her face.
I may be at my limit, Isane continued rallying left and right. But I cannot lose here, I have to make up for Doubles Two!
Isane forehanded but, fell over which allowed Matsuri to backhand until she saw a flipping form going for the corner.
"Hoi hoi,," a red haired acrobat smiled cheekily at Matsuri, "Ki-ku-maru Bazooka!"
Zooming past Matsuri, the ball cracked loud enough to fly into the bleachers which caused Matsuri to fall backwards, "Fifteen - forty!"
Breathing heavily, Matsuri looked up to face Isane who changed back to her normal self. "Well, that's quite astounding. No wonder you're one of the formers."
"Well," Isane scratched her head sheepishly. "I still have a long way to go. Copying people here and there isn't as easy as it looks."
So this is why she's deemed the Most Unpredictable, Matsuri stood up while recalling the forms. Funny, she used boys as an illusion. Normally, wouldn't she copy a girl?
Isane laced her shoes while watching Matsuri analyse her. She knew how most data masters work; her partner's one and if there is one thing Isane figured out about data players is that:
Most of them are serve and volley. If you think about it, Isane recalled watching Inui and Hitomi play. Both Kaidoh and I had to guard the back while the two played it out right in front. Then again, they get more data that way. Shuriki-san forced me to the net several times but I'm glad my volleying skills got better.
"Wait a minute," Kiyone turned to Momo. "Didn't Isa-Isa-senpai hate going near the net?"
Momo shrugged nonchalantly. "Well, she couldn't be third a player. I mean – a tennis player is composed of three things: serve, volley and baseline. She couldn't be serve and baseline only."
The next shot zoomed towards Isane's right side, forcing the girl to rally to the left. Matsuri forehanded it down the line while Isane went for a crosscourt backhand. Seeing the ball clip the net, Matsuri volleyed the shot right in front of Isane forcing the taller girl to lob. Jumping for the shot, Matsuri aimed it straight for Isane's right side.
That smash, Isane's eyes widened. That's exactly how...
Flashback
Shina volleyed again towards Isane. "Yay, here I go!"
"Oh no, not another volley shot!" Isane dived for the ball and it came out to be a lob.
Gakuto slapped his forehead. "Uchiha, you're a crazy wimp! Why did you give her a chance shot!?"
"Eh? Gomenasai," Isane shrank at Gakuto's retort.
Ayane pointed to Shina. "Focus on the game, Uchiha-senpai!"
Isane looked at her opponent who was up in the air and smashed the ball towards her. "Ah!"
"Score: 30-love!" The arbiter declared.
End of Flashback
That's exactly how Sunamyou-chan got me, Isane shuddered at the thought of the little girl. Without realizing, Isane stumbled back, frozen while the ball zoomed past her.
"Thirty – forty," Matsuri landed while pointing straight at Isane.
"Uchiha Isane," Matsuri smirked while pointing to Isane's left rib. "At the Tokyo Prefectural, you played Singles Three against Yuugetsu Chuu's Sunamyou Shina. Of course, at that point in time – you already had a psychological wedge in your head. The fact that you can't tolerate being at the net increased your skill as a doubles player and also, your inability to move while at the net. However, in the training camp you managed to gain a little more courage by putting up illusions to fool your opponent thus lessening your contact with the net."
Isane covered her injury with her jacket. "Just because you know what I'm afraid of doesn't mean you have any ability to get past me... either way, I will win."
"Oh," Matsuri folded her arms, smirking. "Show me what you got then."
Isane readied herself for the next serve as Matsuri fired another fast serve. I can't let that stop me. This time... my fear ends now...!
Forehanding it to the baseline, Isane found Matsuri volleying lightly causing the ball float. Isane, dripping with sweat, dashed towards the net and with a ground smash returned the favour.
"Game, Uchiha: four games to love!"
Matsuri stood back aghast, Shizuru's eyes widened slightly, Momo and the others gaped at Isane while Kiyone managed to break the silence. "Whoa, she did it..."
"She charged the net," Haruka began clapping her hands while shaking her head in disbelief. "Go for it Isane! Finish her off! Don't give her a chance to take you down!"
Rin jumped on the fence, whistling. "Yeah, whoo hoo – Go Isane go!"
Isane took the ball from a shocked Matsuri. "I guess you're wondering why I charged the net despite you trying to break me."
Matsuri didn't say anything while Isane ruefully smiled. "I can't afford to keep burdening my teammates with my fear. Among all of them, I'm the only one with a problem. Kiyone's fine with the baseline but it doesn't have a high percentage of entering the other court. Shizuru may have a flat-foot issue and a busted knee but that never stopped her. Ayane may not run as fast as any of us but she's practically strong enough to send a person flying to the wall. Hitomi recently faced someone who tried to crack her but she pulled through. Momo overcame her attachment to Midoriyama-senpai and Haruka became a better partner for Rin. So, I'm the only one who hasn't climbed her wall yet."
Matsuri watched Isane walk to the baseline. "By the way," –Isane smiled cheerfully. "I don't think you need to waste your stamina at this point."
Watching Isane change form, Matsuri noticed that the silver haired regular now had messy black hair with green eyes staring at her with a cocky smirk.
"I'll show you," –the Rikkai Dai ace pointed his racquet at her. "I'll show you the meaning of deadly service!"
Ayane slapped her forehead. "She changed into Kirihara Akaya!?"
"Well," Hitomi looked through her data book. "It looks like she managed to see him play or somehow, get data about him."
Kirihara/Isane shook her head at Matsuri. "You probably have written down that I can only copy those I've played. But, Kirihara-kun has one similarity to someone in the team. Momo can do the same serve and that's all I need to finish this game."
Tossing the ball up in the air, Isane placed more power into her serve causing it to bounce towards the opponent's body which forced Matsuri to dodge the shot.
"Fifteen – love," Isane prepared another monster Knuckle Serve.
"Thirty – love," Matsuri could only dodge the speed of the serve.
Hitomi closed her notebook, pulling out a camera. "Isane has one of the best forms for service hence her ability to place more speed into her service. However, Isane never relied on power which is why the Sniper Serve was invented. But now, Isane is using the weight of her racquet and body to put more power. She made her service more technical though, I'm not sure if she even notices it."
"Game, Uchiha: five games to love!"
Seeing the ball roll towards her, Matsuri sighed before looking up at Isane. "Well, that's quite the service. I just wonder how long you can keep up that illusion"
Feeling her arms numb themselves, Isane slapped her arms to wake both of them up. Matsuri started with a fairly smooth service which allowed Isane to send a backhand towards the other corner. But, Matsuri didn't even budge from her spot as Isane's shot hit the net.
"Net, love – fifteen," Isane shook her head disbelievingly. Oops, I didn't just do that... did I?
Matsuri scoffed a bit. "Well, your illusion of Kirihara Akaya wasn't too bad except for the power you were forced to place in his signature serve."
Haruka bit her lip. "Damn, isn't there anyway for her to recover?"
Florence glanced at the scoreboard and then at Matsuri. Matsuri, this match is already theirs. You should know – even though Uchiha is crippled, what makes you think she'll give up her service game?
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"Game and match, Kikumaru-Momoshiro: six games to four!"
Momoshiro clapped his feet as Kikumaru did a 'v' sign to Oishi who stood at the bleachers. "We won, nyah!"
Seigaku whooped and followed up with their cheer as Gakuto and Oshitari returned to the benches.
"Oshitari, Gakuto," Sakaki turned to the two while they faced him, nodding. "Stay behind after."
Kikumaru jumped up and down, cheering. "Yay, we started off with a win, nyah!"
Oishi nodded approvingly. "Yeah, that was a job well done you two."
Momoshiro grabbed a towel, wiping his face. "No problem, it's just really...really... cool."
"I'm so tired nyah," Kikumaru stretched out his arms. "Keeping up with Gakuto made me dizzy."
Momoshiro peeked from behind his towel as Kikumaru smiled cheekily. "Really Momo, you moved well out there. If it were us out there, I don't think we would have won."
With Seigaku cheering Ryuuzaki-sensei went to the others. "This may be a big comeback for us but that doesn't mean you guys can slack! Pick up the pace, next pair!"
Inui picked up his racquet as Kaidoh finished warming up. While glancing at one side, Inui found Shishido walking down while balancing a racquet on his finger.
"Hey you morons," Shishido pointed his racquet at them. "Have you guys given up already!?"
The crowd stood aghast at Shishido, who was twitching. "Just because we lost one game doesn't mean we're dead yet! You usually cheer louder when you're around the girls! Get your damn act in gear and use your voice to support us you morons!"
THE WINNER WILL BE HYOTEI! THE WINNER WILL BE HYOTEI!
Atobe smirked as he watched Shishido and Ohtori take their place in the court. "It looks like you've grown up, Shishido."
"To think I thought he was dropped from the regulars," Inui stroked his chin before resuming his place on the court. "Kaidoh, shall we?"
Kaidoh hissed his usual reply as he made his way to the court. "Fssshuu, whatever it is senpai – I'm not playing doubles."
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"Game, Shuriki: two games to five!"
Isane found Matsuri taking down every one of her serves. Slightly trembling, Isane lowered her stance to begin her service.
Most of them are a fault on my part, Isane bit her lip as she tossed the ball. But this time, I'm not going to have Shuriki-san make all of my hard work go to waste!
"Isane-senpai was winning awhile ago," Ayane nudged her captain. "What happened?"
Mai watched Isane send a faulty service. "Isane-senpai can only go so far when she uses her Illusion ability. Her concentration is redirected into her ability to fool the opponent. Another factor," – she started fanning herself. "Check the temperature of the heat right now."
"It's exceeding forty degrees Celsius," Hitomi placed her thermometer back. "Isane may be able to withstand the heat but only to a certain time."
Haruka came back with an arm load of drinks. "I know you guys are going to need this. Isane's probably going to drink a whole box of iced tea later."
"Did you get me my frappe," Rin's eyes sparkled as Haruka handed her a tall bottle of Mocha Frappuccino. "Yay, where's the cookie?"
Haruka flicked her forehead, shaking her head. "You're going to get heavy later. How is it possible that your mind sticks to!?"
"But food's good," Rin pouted while sipping her Frappuccino with puffed cheeks. "I want my chocolate chip cookie!"
Hitomi pat the black haired acrobat on the head. "But you're going to be playing later, a cookie's going to dry you up."
Haruka nodded, wagging her finger at Rin. "Rin, we can have one after we play. We're right after Isane anyway. We need to warm up."
Rin folded her arms as Haruka dragged her along. "I WANT MY COOKIE!"
"You can have it later," Haruka sighed exasperatedly; finally giving in to the acrobat. "I'll buy you a box later."
"YAY," Rin squealed as she ran past Haruka who simply shook her head.
"Rin-senpai can win a cookie eating competition with the way she is," Kiyone downed a bottle of lemon iced tea. "She's as crazy as that guy from Rikkai Dai."
Ayane ruffled Kiyone's hair. "Hey, don't knock it. You have your tendencies too."
"But not as bad as hers," Kiyone puffed up her cheeks. "I mean, I know how to control myself!"
Ayane reached into her pocket, revealing a bag of grilled wasabi-coated eggplant chips. "Sure you can."
"Mine," Kiyone lunged at Ayane until the vice captain blocked her with her "assets". "Hey give it to me!"
Momo face palmed while Shizuru sighed into her hand. "How could they talk about junk food right now?"
"Kiyone's been deprived of her chips ever since Hitomi heard about her weak baseline shots," Shizuru sighed as she watched Kiyone bite Ayane who yelped and began swinging her arm back and forth to have Kiyone let go. "Sometimes, Kiyone would actually bite Ayane until she gives in."
"I AM NOT GIVING THIS TO YOU,"Ayane snorted as she put the bag of wasabi chips in another hand.
Kiyone let go and wrestled her again. "I want some! I'm not even playing today!"
"Buchou said for us to pay attention to the game," Ayane pushed Kiyone off her. "So, quit whining about your chips!"
"They're eggplants you dummy," Kiyone bit her again, earning an "Ow" and glare from the vice captain.
With her service speeding towards Matsuri, Isane dashed to one side as the data master sent it back as a straight. While slamming it with a forehand, Isane tried to conjure another illusion but her body started aching the moment she tried. Matsuri watched Isane's eyes carefully while she lobbed the ball straight up, forcing Isane to move backwards. Though barely managing a smash, Isane watched Matsuri return it with a very familiar stance.
"That's the," Isane saw it fly above her head. "That's the Higuma Otoshi of Oshitari! How did she do that shot!?"
"Senpai, cord smash," Mai pointed at the net, calling from the bleachers. "It will cause the ball to slightly spin and the shot will go out!"
Isane watched Matsuri prepared another Higuma Otoshi. I'll try something else.
Moving back a bit more, Isane waited for the ball at waist level and cross courted it to the right side. Shocked, Matsuri dashed to the other side, forcing to lob. Isane smashed from afar, allowing Matsuri to perform the Higuma Otoshi. When Isane cross courted the top spin, Matsuri zoomed over to the next side and slid the shot gently over the net. Clipping the net, the ball rolled in front of Isane.
"Love – fifteen," Isane bit her lip as she looked at Matsuri again.
"Shuriki Matsuri has no recognizable moves except the Higuma Otoshi," Hitomi continued scribbling down. "However, her ace card lies in two things: stamina and... control."
Another cord ball rolled away from Matsuri, "Love – thirty!"
Seeing her approach the net, Isane finally managed to score once. "Fifteen – thirty," Isane breathed heavily as she tried to regain her composure.
"That's not going to work anymore," Matsuri mumbled as she moved to one side. "Uchiha Isane has this tendency to back-up the moment she's 3.5 feet away from the net. Therefore, it gives me a wider opening. Judging from her personality, Isane will have a hard time following up any of my volleys and drop shots."
"Fifteen – forty," Isane missed the other one, nearly crashing into the net.
Punching her hand, Momo bit her lip. "Isane's going to get clobbered if she doesn't get a time out."
"Game, Shuriki: three games to five!"
Isane, trying to control her breathing, saw the ball roll near her. Bouncing the ball a bit, Isane suddenly began whistling.
"Throwing me off guard with a whistle won't help," Matsuri lowered her stance but didn't see the serve fly from Isane. "Hey, what's taking you so long?"
Isane continued whistling as Momo recognized the piece. "Isane, why are you whistling "Brand New Breeze"?"
You have no idea how tired I am, Isane barely managing to keep the tune. Then again, this is quite relaxing.
"Um," the arbiter glanced at Isane. "Uchiha-san, please serve."
Isane stopped at the end of the song with a smirk only then did Momo understand what it was for. "Wait a minute, Isane you didn't."
Mai folded her arms, after throwing her jacket aside. "She used it to conserve her energy. That was a habit Ferero-senpai used to do. You're kinda crazy, Isane-senpai."
"Here I come," Isane fired her service right in between again.
"Fifteen – love," Matsuri bit her lip. She gained her stability back that quickly!? But, her data said that she recovers only every five minutes unless I keep making her move!
"Brand New Breeze sung by Kanon goes on for 4:02 minutes," Mai glanced at her iPod. "But, why this...?"
Hitomi recalled Ferero-senpai mentioning something about the speed of the song. "The song is slow therefore it allows Isane to cool down and allow her to recover stability for her feet. That's something that even Ohtori's working on but I don't know what Sakaki-kantoku is making him do."
"Thirty – love," Isane fired another serve in; Matsuri couldn't even see where it was going.
Haruka came back with a panting Rin. "So, who's winning?"
"Isane's having fun whistling," Momo face palmed before watching another serve fly. "She's copying Ferero-senpai."
Hitomi shook her head. "It was never Ferero-senpai's idea – it was more Isane's. By doing this, she conserves her energy, intimidates her opponent and also, buys enough time to plan a serve. However, Ferero-senpai did this as well in order to maintain the consistency of Isane's service. After all, Isane's not the type to do things without reason."
"Forty – love," Isane tossed the ball again.
This is it, Isane watched the ball freeze in the air. "This is... for Hyotei Gakuen!"
The serve exploded in front of Matsuri, causing the girl to slightly fall back. Seeing the mark on the floor, Matsuri looked at Isane who walked over to her side to help her. "You okay?"
"Game and match, Uchiha: six games to four!"
Matsuri took the taller girl's hand. "You're doing well despite your fear. I think you should be proud today."
"I haven't conquered entirely," Isane meekly smiled at the data girl. "But, playing with you gave me a little more progress. I should be thanking you."
"I'm honoured that I get to play one of the former queens," Matsuri turned around, heading towards the benches. "Though, I wonder how well can your doubles pair can hold up."
Isane looked at the people entering the court. "I don't think that's something I should worry about."
Walking down the stairs, Hyotei noticed Haruka and Rin smiling at one another. "Perfect," –Haruka placed her racquet on her shoulder. "Rin, I think it's time to pull out our Synchro."
Rin licked her lips with a smirk. "You betcha coz they're not going to know what hit them, kuwee~!"
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"Game, Shishido-Ohtori: five games to love!"
Inui glanced to Kaidoh. "I think it's time we have a counter attack."
Kaidoh smirked at Inui while glancing at the Hyotei pair. "Yeah, you got that right."
While the two switched places, Kaidoh placed a hand on Inui's shoulder. "Did you gather all the data?"
"Yes, thank you," Inui had a business-like smile, causing Kaidoh to slightly shudder.
He smiles like that creepy girl from Hyotei, Kaidoh shook his head a bit as he walked to the net line.
Shishido and Ohtori raised an eyebrow as Kaidoh waited for their attack. Serving, Inui had Shishido running all over the place.
"The possibility of a straight shot: a hundred percent," Inui backhanded it back to Shishido.
So that's why he kept mumbling, Ryuuzaki-sensei shook her head disbelievingly. Let's just hope Kaidoh still has enough juice to keep on running.
Twitching and snorting, Shishido fired a backhand towards the other side. "Che, as if that's going to happen!"
"I'm sorry but," Inui stood still as the ball slapped the net. "The third shot won't go over the net."
As usual, the Freshmen Trio (I don't like them, annoying side people) jumped up with delight. "There it is, Inui-senpai's Data Tennis!"
Kaidoh and Inui gave each other a knuckle as they agreed on one thing. "This time, we're not going to fool around anymore. This is where the counterattack begins."
"Yeah," Kaidoh nodded while watching the Hyotei pair stare somewhat disbelievingly.
Shishido grumbled a bit, tightening his grip on his racquet. Damn, Inui collected our data when we were playing around with Kaidoh! But they did it in three games!? Are you serious!?
Another serve flew as Shishido moved to the right for a cross court while Inui already made his way there.
"The probability of hitting leftward: seventy five percent," Inui began mumbling as he returned it with a backhand.
Shishido, getting more hot-headed, rushed forward for another shot. "Damn it, try this!"
"The probability of a short cross is eighty five percent," Inui drove it down to the service box.
Momoshiro cheered on. "Alright, go Inui-senpai!"
Kikumaru punched the air. "Yeah, go Inui!"
This is crazy, Ohtori ran for the next shot. There's no one who can collect data like that! Doing that in three games is impossible! But first, destroy their formation with a lob...
"Kaidoh, three and half steps back," Inui instructed the junior who readily complied.
Watching the ball fly up, Inui tilted his glasses a bit. "It's obvious what's going to happen because the probability of you doing a lob: a hundred percent."
With this, Kaidoh smashed straight down, forcing Ohtori and Shishido back.
"Game, Inui-Kaidoh: one game to five!"
Oshitari leaned against his knees. "What Inui's doing is impossible – to gather data after three games..."
"Damn, my brain hurts," Gakuto snorted while stretching his legs. "What then, Atobe?"
Atobe pointed at a heavily breathing Kaidoh. "Even if they have the data, they won't be able to counter attack. Not with Kaidoh being so tired out with his reckless espionage awhile ago."
Kaidoh performed a short snake, gaining them the next point. "Game, Inui-Kaidoh: two games to five!"
Inui followed up with a smash, forcing the Hyotei pair back. "Game, Inui-Kaidoh: three games to five!"
Shishido snorted, brushing away the sweat from his face. "Damn, I didn't know they could read us that way. But who cares?"
Ohtori gave him a quizzical look until Shishido handed him the ball. "It's already the ninth game. I think we can seal this up."
Seigaku bystanders gaped as Ohtori took the next service. Shishido swung himself a bit at the net while watching the serve come from behind him. Inui stayed a bit on the left side as he watched Ohtori's serve smack into the net.
"Double Fault, Love – fifteen," Ohtori breathed heavily as Inui moved a bit more to the left side.
Ohtori has this bad habit of gripping his racquet tighter, Inui tilted his glasses a bit. The more leftward I lean, the higher the probability of the ball hitting the net.
"Double Fault, Love – thirty," Ohtori bit his lip. Why isn't it going in?
Looking to one side, Ohtori looked at the scoreboard while taking a glance at Kaidoh and Inui. Naturally, he would've hit the Scud Service by now and they would have won but he couldn't feel his hands. In fact, his whole body shivered a bit as he prepared another serve.
"It's not that Ohtori's exhausted," Atobe glanced at Seigaku's side. "It's just that Inui's very spot-on with his observation. He's turning Ohtori against himself. That's how the last games fell to them."
Gakuto draped the towel over his head. "Geez, stupid smelly Seigaku! They think they're so good! Who the hell do they think they are?"
"Gakuto, they have a reason to brag," Oshitari couldn't believe Gakuto could maintain his arrogance despite them losing to Momoshiro and Kikumaru.
Atobe began looking around, seeing that another player was missing. "Kabaji, go find Jirou and bring him back here!"
"Usu," Kabaji walked off while trying to find the sleeping volleyist.
So, what exactly is Seigaku trying to do here? Atobe raised an eyebrow as Inui waited for another serve. They're not a bad pair after all, Tezuka.
Another serve missed, causing Ohtori to lose balance, "Double Fault, love – forty!"
Breathing heavily, Ohtori couldn't believe he missed thrice. His body started aching and firing that service and making it miss again and again frustrated him. He was about to toss the ball until someone got it from him. Looking for the ball, Ohtori then found the ball back in his hand with Shishido smirking at him.
"Relax, Choutarou," Shishido shook his head, casting a sideward glance at the crowd which caused them to shut up. "Don't push yourself to hit for an open space. Just hit it right in front of them, which should be good enough. What use is a serve if it won't go in?"
That's right, Ohtori tossed the ball. Just focus in getting it in. It's all in the follow through.
Finally, it zoomed in allowing Inui to return it. Kaidoh lunged forward to send a crosscourt shot which brought out Shishido to return it far into the back.
"There's such a large space," Shishido smirked until Inui raised an eyebrow, smiling more business-like. "What's with you?"
Inui looked back slightly. "As I expected..."
Kaidoh, punching in his shot, fired a Boomerang Snake which went under the referee's chair and right unto the Singles line.
"What the heck," Momoshiro gaped at how fast it flew. "It's in the Singles Line!"
Fuji shook his head, pointed out to Momoshiro. "But now that it's there, the other guy can easily counter it without putting much strain."
Shishido recalled all the times he had brutally trained for the Kanto tournament. All the times he forced Ohtori to keep serving at him just so he could train harder, all the times he played tag with Shizuru just so his footwork would increase and everyday, he would keep track of his own progress. After beating Taki, he couldn't believe that Hiyoshi had replaced him. But after a little debate, Shishido regained his position and gave it his all ever since.
I better return this godforsaken shot, Shishido managed to hit but fell over and landed on his left side.
"He hit it," Kawamura gulped. "Even from that range..."
Based on Ohtori's personality, Inui watched Ohtori shift left and right. He thinks that we're going to take advantage of the fallen Shishido thus making him cover the latter. So, the chance of a straight shot is...a hundred percent.
Ohtori bit his lip until he saw Shishido raising his eyebrows. "Alright, I'll take the straight, Shishido-senpai!"
Shishido smirked while watching Ohtori charge at Inui. So, where are you going to fire now you creepy data man?
To their surprise, Inui changed his mind last minute and fired the shot a bit more to the side.
"Game, Inui-Kaidoh: four games to five!"
Shishido fixed his cap a bit. "Darn, one more game and now they're catching up! Wait, what's that...?"
Inui brought the referee over and seeing the mark, the referee took his seat back on the chair.
"We'll start the game from love – forty! Please resume your game!"
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"Well," Haruka looked at the next set of players. "They don't look as lifeless as the first two."
Rin hid behind Haruka. "Don't say that, they're looking at us!"
"Doubles One will now begin: Jyosei Shounan's Nakayama-Zanshoryuu versus Hyotei Gakuen's Hikifumi-Shimohi! Please come to the court!"
Taking a glance at the two players, Haruka found the two talking to one another and then, the blue haired girl extended her hand. "Hi, Nakayama Shikako, playmaker and this is my partner," – referring to the dark haired girl, "Zanshoryuu Hikari."
People don't usually do that, Haruka warily extended her hand. " I'm Hikifumi Haruka, Hyotei Gakuen's Pearl Dragon."
Rin jumped from behind, giving her a 'v' sign. "I'm Shimohi Rin, the Black Dragon!"
Haruka raised an eyebrow as Hikari gave her a foxy smile. That smile usually means I'm going to kick your ass whether you like it or not.
"Rin," Haruka glanced at the hyperactive acrobat. "This match won't be anything like Yuugetsu Chuu's or Taishaku Fuzoku Chuu's."
Rin raised an eyebrow while Haruka narrowed her eyes slightly. "These guys aren't normal..."
"Ranking," Rin bit her lip as Haruka looked at the other girl. "Should I even ask?"
Haruka watched the two exchange strategies. "Let's say Jerrard Vera and her senpai will come back to haunt us."
Rin bit her lip. "But, there's something I noticed."
Wow, Rin's serious all of a sudden, Haruka touched her forehead. "Are you okay?"
Rin nodded but her eyes looked at Hikari. "Chocolates are more dangerous than blueberries."
"Eh? When did you start," Haruka looked at the two when she saw Hikari wordlessly nodding. "Actually, if you look at it..."
Rin gave her a thumbs up. "Yeah, that's no problem, kuwee~!"
Haruka breathed in relief, chuckling a bit. For a moment there, I thought Rin was sick...
Watching them move around, Haruka closed her eyes and felt the air around them. Well, the wind seems tenser today...
Rin saw Hikari toss the ball with a fast spin. "What the heck is she doing!?"
With a hard serve, Hikari spun the ball as Haruka watched it intently. You're trying to make it disappear, I suppose... Oh well, neutralize it then...
Momo saw Haruka's change in position. "Here it comes, the Dragon's Retaliation..."
"Top spins are my best friends you know," Haruka increased the top spin, causing it curve around. "What the world---?"
Shikako appeared from behind. "You cut the ball twice to increase your top spin. Not bad, your spin rate is good enough to make the ball change direction only though."
Rin glanced at Hikari who started snapping her fingers. "Wait a minute..."
At the fourth snap, Shikako added an even heavier spin. Rin shook her head to check whether or not the spin power, moving to one side.
Holy crackpot, Rin saw it spinning in all different directions. I can't even tell where it's going to spin next!
Haruka ran for the shot, slicing it down. "Rin, that's why you have me!"
Seeing the ball float, Hikari moved forward for a ground smash while Rin went over to block her. Hmph, so she's the one with Insight...
Twisting around, Hikari escaped Rin and let Shikako smash straight in between her legs.
"Fifteen – love," the Twin Dragons gaped at the two who simply nodded at one another while Shikako continued smiling.
Damn, she's like that Fuji guy from Seigaku, Haruka's face scrunched up while she continued twitching. That smile should be copyrighted!
Rin swung her legs lightly. "What was that they just did?"
"That's the Time Difference attack," Haruka noted as she recalled how Shikako and Hikari simply switched places. "By feinting to one side, the user allows her partner to come up for the attack while she fools the other side into thinking that she's the attacker. It's a normal application for a doubles pair when you're trying to break their formation."
"Oh," Rin looked at the two again. "I noticed something..."
Haruka looked at Rin who tilted her head slightly. "You notice how they keep snapping their fingers?"
"It's how many times Shikako should cut the ball," Haruka glanced at Hikari's fingers, tracing a wire from her pocket. "Wait a minute, is she listening to an iPod???"
Hikari bobbed her head a bit while giving Shikako a high five. Haruka and Rin glanced at each other as they started changing formation.
"Oh? What's this," Florence raised an eyebrow. "I didn't see this last year."
Ayane looked at their positions, pointing out. "Hold on, why is Rin-senpai the middle of two courts?"
"Haruka's right at the net which means," Hitomi tilted her glasses a bit. "She's going to use 'that' to make sure they break the rhythm of the other side."
Momo watched the serve fly from Shikako. Another top spin serve, wait a minute...
Rin saw where it landed, seeing that it was delayed. Perfect, it's a Twist Serve...!
"That serve is nowhere near Echizen's," Momo shook her head, sniggering. "Echizen makes this girl's Twist Serve look normal."
Rin backed up to return the shot with a sinker as Hikari followed up with a slight float over the net, forcing Haruka to volley towards the left side. Rin lunged forward while Haruka pushed herself back to the baseline while resuming a different formation. Hikari began snapping her fingers while Rin watched their foot movement.
"Haru," Rin turned back to see Haruka right where she had anticipated.
"No problem," Haruka backhanded the shot with a deft crack. "Just keep your eyes Hikari's fingers!"
Rin watched several snaps come into play, smirking as she did so. As the ball spun a few times to disappear, it didn't matter to Rin. With one high jump, Rin somersaulted and sent the shot exploding from her racquet. "Kuwee~, here we go! This is the Avalanche Driver!"
"Fifteen – all," Hikari stumbled back a bit as she saw Rin land gracefully on the floor.
Haruka and Rin gave each other a knuckle five as they walked towards the baseline to receive the next service. Watching Hikari carefully, Haruka stood slightly to the left as the Twist Serve zoomed past the net but on the wrong court.
"Fault," Hikari bit her lip as she prepared another serve.
Rin watched Haruka's eyes focus carefully. "Wait a minute, you mean...?"
"Her Twist Serve isn't perfect," Haruka glanced at Hikari where her foot was positioned. "I asked Hitomi prior to the game and there is one bad habit Zanshoryuu has never gotten rid of..."
Rin narrowed her eyes. "So, it's her ankle..."
"Glad you caught up quickly," Haruka watched her hit another fault. "As long as you pressure her, there's no way her serve's going to get in."
Hikari, feeling the sweat cover her hands, tossed the ball fumbling before Shikako jumped up and caught it. "Huh, Shikako, what is it?"
"The two of them are pressuring you to play by their rhythm," Shikako continued smiling. "It seems that we need to push them a little more. Just hit it right in front of them; it doesn't need to be a special serve to take them out."
Hikari nodded before tossing the ball again as Shikako returned to the net line with her usual smile. "Let's rock this thing!"
The ball zoomed over the net which allowed Haruka to stretch over and return it. Rin sealed Shikako right at front with her eyes but the moment Shikako opened her eyes, Rin couldn't believe what had happened. Alternating between sinker, slices and top spins, Shikako sent a top spin lob which threw Rin back and forced Haruka to move to another side to make sure it doesn't end up in only to have the lob drop right in between them.
"Thirty – all," Haruka glanced at Shikako as she walked towards the other side of the service court.
She has that crazy kind of control, Haruka looked at where the ball floated at. Kiyone-chibi can't even do those kinds of shots yet!
Shikako looked at Rin and then at Haruka, her emerald eyes analysing them carefully. Because their style is so aggressive, there's no way they can counter the weaker shots easily. They are always agitated because the first thing they'll expect are heavier and faster shots.
Hikari looked at her once-smiling partner. "Shikako, are you okay?"
Turning to face her, Shikako smiled at her like always. "Yeah, I was just analysing something..."
"Shikako's known to be one of the more dangerous players of Jyosei Shounan," Hitomi explained to Kiyone. "Her control level exceeds Kiyone's and is almost at par with Marui's. Nakayama Shikako also comes with a title..."
Yes, you're right, Yamaguchi, Florence glanced at Hyotei's data master before watching Shikako get ready for the next rally. Shikako is known as one of the most dangerous players on the court... After all, her nickname is actually...
Ayane raised an eyebrow at Hitomi. "She's known as the 'Wildcard'?"
"In card games, 'wildcards' are cards that are not usually expected with a high rate," Hitomi somewhat twitched, unnerved by Shikako's smile. "You cannot expect a Queen of Diamonds that easily and that same principle applies to her. You cannot expect the same style the next turn. Any data gathered about Shikako is deemed useless in the next match. You have to beat her with raw skill alone."
"Or brute force," Ayane grinned cheerfully. "That should send her flying."
Momo shook her head. "She returned my Sui before. Don't think she can't return your Kotsubushi Katana on her worst days. She doesn't really show her true potential."
"That's the scary part," Isane shivered a bit. "As long as she keeps smiling and her eyes are closed, there's no way you can tell what she's thinking."
Kiyone noticed Shikako's green eyes had vanished. "So, she plays blind?"
"Not really," Shizuru tried her best to simplify it for the freshman. "Very few people have that kind of potential. Let's say if she plays in a Singles Match..."
Mai nodded stiffly. "As much as I hate to admit it, she has the potential to massacre me on the court."
"Game, Nakayama-Zanshoryuu: one game to love!"
Haruka clucked her tongue while Shikako simply gave them a foxy grin. "Well, you should try harder next time."
"Zannen mataraishu," Hikari placed her racquet on her shoulder.
Rin glanced at Haruka who smirked back at them. "Well, it looks like we'll have to do you guys in... as soon as we start our service."
-That's Chapter 25! By the way, before you think it's a Mary Sue, please read the later chapters. Also, do you like the revamped version or do you like the old version? Because I reedited some things like, Shizuru's game with Atobe so – yeah, please tell me what you think! Please review!