CHAPTER SIX: FIGTHER
"Learning is a gift, even when pain is your teacher."
Honoka leaned her head back and allowed the warm droplets of water to pour down gracefully on her skin. Her hands roamed her curvaceous and voluptuous body, gently lathering herself with soap as the water washed away the suds. She exhaled contentedly, enjoying the scalding hot, yet comforting shower.
She was going to need it to relax herself because today, she was going to be training extra long and hard for the first part of the tournament to determine who will proceed to the main competition and Honoka just couldn't contain her excitement.
She leaned forward and twisted the shower knob in the opposite direction, the endless water disappearing. Opening the shower door, Honoka stepped out of the steamy cabin and hugged her body to warm herself from the cool air blowing on her skin.
"S-So cold..." she shivered, rubbing her arms. Honoka quickly grabbed a towel that hung nearby and wrapped it around her body. She clutched the cloth to her chest, since her large bust wouldn't be able to hold it.
Upon entering the room, Honoka immediately rummaged through her bag for clothes that would be considered gym wear. "Ah! Perfect." she grinned, laying out the outfit on the bed.
Honoka took her time toweling herself nice and dry, making sure there was not a single trace of wetness left. After putting on her undergarments along with a black fingerless glove that had the signature decal of a winking skull, she proceeded to slip on a white tank top with a blue camouflage long-sleeved hoodie, light blue jeans and white shoes. She placed her winking skull ponytail holder in her mouth and rushed over to a nearby mirror to get a good view of her reflection. Pulling her hair back tightly, she wrapped the holder securely around her salmon-pink locks.
The schoolgirl spent a few more minutes primping in front of the mirror, making sure she looked okay before she could head to the gym. Aside from winning the tournament being her main focus, she wanted to at least look intimidating enough for the other fighters to take her seriously. It didn't help that they were already looking down at her, their noses held high in the air.
Honoka grabbed her phone and looked at the scheduled matches provided to the fighters of the tournament via text.
Day 1 – Rounds of 8 (Group 1)
Day 2 – Rounds of 8 (Group 2)
Day 3 – Break
Day 4 - Special Match
Day 5 – Quarter Finals
Day 6 – Semi-Finals
Day 7 – Finals
Day 8 – Fight for the Zaibatsu
Honoka's eyes widened at the last line of the chart. She had no idea that she could actually win control over the Mishima Zaibatsu.
"Fight for the Zaibatsu?"
Flashback
"To Miss Honoka Kimura, we have dispatched this letter to your address to inform you that you have been invited to participate in the upcoming fifth King of Iron Fist Tournament in Tokyo, Japan. The nations' best fighters will go head-to-head to compete for thousands of dollars in prizes. Whoever is crowned the winner will be awarded $100,000,000,000 and be offered the ownership to the Mishima...Zaibatsu..." she trailed off, slowly lowering the letter in shock.
End Flashback
"The letter, that's right. I forgot they mentioned something about it."
She was expecting prize money and recognition, but never an actual company...she wasn't sure how she felt about that, but it sure was a lot of pressure. At least everyone else must have felt it too…
A knock sounded on the door, making Honoka turn her attention away from her phone. She quickly headed over to the door and opened it to find Asuka on the other side waiting for her.
"Hey, Honoka, you ready to hit the gym?" Asuka's voice called out. Honoka grinned and rushed to open the door.
"Hey, Asuka! Yeah, I'm all set. Let's go kick some butt at the training ground!" Honoka's eyes sparkled with determination as she clutched her gym bag.
Asuka grinned, nodding in approval at Honoka's enthusiasm. "That's the spirit! I'm sure we'll kick some serious butt out there," she said, giving Honoka a playful nudge.
"I have a feeling that today's gonna be a great day." she smiled brightly in the mirror. Grabbing her phone along with her earbuds, Honoka exited the room and headed for the gym.
❥ ๑━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━๑ ❥
Honoka grinned at Asuka as they entered the gym together. She felt pumped up and ready to take on whatever challenges lay ahead. As she looked around at the other fighters training, she noticed a few curious glances thrown her way. She could tell they were sizing her up, but she wasn't about to let it faze her.
She quickly found a spot at the gym and started her warm-up routine, getting her body ready for some serious training. Honoka was excited, but the revelation about the tournament's high stakes had given her a bit of a reality check. Competing for ownership of a company was no small feat, and the pressure was definitely sinking in.
Asuka joined her, and together they started their training session. The two of them were determined to push themselves to the limit and show everyone what they were made of. Honoka's determination showed on her face as she threw punches and kicks with precision and power, her eyes focused and her mind set on the prize.
"Who's the cute babe rockin' the blue over there?" a deep voice seasoned with gravel rumbled, sharp with American swagger. "Don't recall seein' her type 'round these parts."
"I'm not quite sure," a female competitor with braided brown hair and black framed glasses murmured, her gaze fixed thoughtfully on Honoka, who was training with Asuka. "But she's probably here for the tournament."
The American cyborg, veins straining as he hoisted weights, chimed in with a dismissive grunt. "Just another amateur," he scoffed, his glare slicing through Honoka as though he could diminish her strength with his doubt. "She's nothing."
A wry smile creased the lips of another male competitor. "Heh, rookies are swarming in this year. Heard a couple even scuffled in the last DEAD OR ALIVE tourney a few months back," he mused out loud, eying Honoka with a blend of amusement and appraisal.
"DEAD OR ALIVE, huh?" The taekwondo fighter's words curled around his mouth as he peered at Honoka with interest. "Didn't we see one of them flunk out second match, fifth division? How much you wanna bet it was that air head over there?" He jutted his chin towards Honoka, who seemed adrift from the undercurrents of gossip.
A deep chuckle sounded from the British boxer. "She's rather a dainty one, isn't she?"
"You ain't wrong. For a lil' pipsqueak, this chick's sure got a nice set of tits on her. " A burly man's voice broke in, crass and leering. Honoka remained a lamb amongst wolves, incognizant of the predatory banter.
"Careful now," another fighter cut in, an edge of warning to his words. "The lady's underage."
"Fair point," the taekwondo fighter conceded. "But, you've got to admit, she's packing some serious... 'equipment'." He smirked, oblivious to the disapproving frowns from his peers. Yet the taekwondo fighter's respect seemed absent as he quipped, a sly gleam in his eye, "Those knockers of hers could be lethal—you know, psychological warfare." Scanning the room, he added, "If only she wasn't such a ditz, she could actually pose a real threat."
The female fighter's expression—once neutral—now curled with revulsion. "Ugh, you men are such pigs." she snapped, turning on her heel in disdain and leaving them to stew in their chauvinism.
As for Honoka, she remained a subject of scrutiny, set apart by both her petite stature and the curves that, unbeknownst to her, had already painted a bullseye on her back.
"Honoka, remember to focus on controlling your breathing and staying light on your feet," Asuka reminded her. "Those big, flashy moves are cool, but technique and timing are just as important."
Honoka gave a confident nod, adjusting her glove as she mentally prepared herself for the intense training ahead.
Asuka and Honoka got in position from across each other, their determination palpable in the air. Asuka gestured for Honoka to take her fighting stance, her eyes fixed on her student with unwavering focus. "Alright, let's start with some footwork drills," Asuka commanded, her voice commanding attention. "I want to see that agility and lightness you're capable of."
Honoka nodded, her eyes reflecting a steely determination. She began to move with precision, staying light on her feet and controlling her breathing just as Asuka had advised. As they practiced the footwork, Asuka observed Honoka's technique closely, offering quick, precise feedback to help her improve.
"Now, let's work on your strikes," Asuka instructed, her voice brimming with confidence. "Remember, power comes from proper form, not just brute strength." Honoka focused on her technique, honing her strikes with controlled precision, taking Asuka's guidance to heart.
The training session continued, each exchange between teacher and student filled with intensity and purpose. As Honoka pushed herself to improve, Asuka's instructions were firm but encouraging, guiding her through every move and technique. With each round of training, Honoka grew more confident and precise, embodying the spirit of a true fighter under Asuka's watchful eye.
"Damn, didn't think you could pull that off while looking as good as you do there." a man with a deep voice said, causing Honoka to remove one of her earbuds and see who was approaching her. "Mind spotting me, toots? Could use someone like you on the bar."
Honoka felt almost intimidated by the burly man towering above her small frame, causing her to recoil in agitation. "Eh?" She couldn't deny that his large body and size made her feel uneasy.
Asuka's narrowed eyes locked onto the intruder, her protective instincts kicking in. "We're in the middle of a training session here, buddy. Find someone else to spot you," she said firmly, her tone leaving no room for negotiation.
Honoka, still feeling the effects of the interruption, tried to shake off her unease and stood tall. "Yeah, sorry, I'm not really into that kind of thing," she replied, managing to maintain a composed front despite the burly man's imposing presence.
Not easily deterred, the man smirked and took a step closer, crossing his heavily tattooed arms. "Come on, sweetheart, don't be shy. I could use a little lady's touch to help me out," he said, his tone oozing with misplaced confidence.
Honoka didn't answer and continued to observe the man that hovered over her. From his tattooed limbs, bare feet, and bright green MMA shorts, she immediately recognized him as a pro-MMA fighter.
"Um...you're Mr. Craig Marduk, right? The winner of the last Vale Tudo tournament?" Honoka asked.
"You actually KNOW who this guy is?" questioned Asuka, her voice mixed with annoyance and disbelief.
"Mmhm." hummed Honoka with a nod. "He's the undefeated Vale Tudo champion."
A glimmer of pride shone through Marduk's response, the grin never faltering. "The one and only, doll. Top of the line, Vale Tudo king of the world." His swagger seemed almost tangible. "And remember, that's not just for you. It goes for every wannabe tough guy here."
Asuka couldn't help, but roll her eyes at his arrogance. She always had a strong sense of hatred towards cocky people, especially when they held no shame in it. "Showoff."
Being a devoted fan of pro wrestling and MMA matches since Honoka's early teens had its advantages. It was easy for her to identify Marduk. Although not academically inclined, her knowledge of popular pro wrestlers and MMA fighters was extensive. La Mariposa, Bass, Tina Armstrong, and King II belonged to the same category of wrestlers, while Mila, Zack, and Marduk fell into the MMA fighter category.
But the moment settled into a troubling discomfort as she felt hands encircle her waist from behind and a weight press against her back. "Hey, Honoka-chan, you're... so soft," purred Tamaki, her playful squeeze sending a jolt through Honoka.
"T-Tamaki?!" Honoka gasped, her voice pitched with alarm.
Asuka's jaw fell in disbelief, her face flushing with embarrassment at the steamy moment between Honoka and the shameless woman, Tamaki. "H-Hey, knock it off before people start gettin' the wrong idea! They're staring, y'know."
Tamaki threw Asuka a playful smirk. "And?" she asked, giving Honoka's breast a squeeze which drew an involuntary moan from her.
"T-Tamaki…c-could you actually let go of me." pleaded Honoka, her face flushed. "You're a-actually embarrassing me."
"What a sight am I right big guy?" said an orange head guy.
"You got that right! Wait, who are you?" asked Marduk.
"Hwoarang," the orange-headed man pronounced with a flick of his thumb at his chest. "The future champion of the King of Iron Fist Tournament."
Marduk snorted dismissively. "Annoying little..."
"Oh come on don't be like that big guy. You love a good fight, and so do I. What do you say to a friendly spar?"
To sweeten the deal, Hwoarang's eyes danced mischievously. "If you win, you take your pick for the night—our drunken fist friend over there, the uncute tomboy, or Miss Sugar tits here."
Asuka glared daggers at Hwoarang. "Really? 'Uncute,' that's the best you got?"
Confusion flickered on Honoka's face. "Sugar…tits?" she echoed, not quite grasping the innuendo.
Marduk bellowed with excitement. "Now that's what I'm talking about! How about it, ladies" said Marduk.
"~Sounds fun~" replied Tamaki.
"Hey, don't go egging 'em on." scolded Asuka, shooting her look of annoyance. "You're only gonna make it worse."
"U-Um, I never been on a date before," said Honoka.
"Don't sweat it, when I win, I'll take care of you" said Hwoarang
"W-Wait I'm too young to get married!?" said Honoka, completely misunderstanding Hwoarang.
The three shared a look, each harboring their own amusements and designs.
'Wow. Innocent and hilarious,' Hwoarang thought, chuckling to himself.
'Just one more year and she's fair game,' pondered Marduk.
'~Oh my she's my she's more innocent than I thought. Oh I can't help myself to tease her now~' thought Tamaki.
Honoka looked at the three infront of her frantically because the look they are giving her is making her nervous. She feels like she wants to crawl in a hole and stay there but she must win this tournament for her grandma's sake.
*SMACK*
Honoka smacked her cheeks turning them red. The sudden action then look of determination made the two out of the three infront of her give a weird look. Tamaki didn't care, but Marduk and Hwoarang started to think its Honoka's time of the month cause that was one hell of a sudden mood swing.
Marduk crossed his arms and looked down at Hwoarang. "You talk a big game, but I've seen plenty of fighters with that kind of attitude fall flat on their asses."
Hwoarang's smirk turned into a confident grin. "Well, that's where we're different, big man. I don't just talk about the win, I go out there and make it happen."
Marduk shook his head, unsure whether it was confidence or pure folly he was witnessing. "There's a fine line between confidence and stupidity." he snorted.
Hwoarang crossed his arms, a smirk on his face as he looked Marduk up and down. "You seem to have a lot to say for someone who hasn't faced my kicks yet," he taunted.
Marduk scoffed, shaking his head. "And you're all talk, pretty boy. Let's see if you can back it up in the ring."
Tamaki slipped between the two, unfazed by the tension. "~Boys, boys, regardless of who wins, I'm still going for that date—there's a wine bar I've been dying to try."~" said Tamaki.
"Win or lose I-I don't mind still going on that d-date however…" Honoka said sheepishly but a sudden vigor filled her and she pumped her fist.
"I want to fight the winner!"
Asuka, who had been listening in on their conversation, raised an eyebrow skeptically. "You sure about that, Honoka? These fighters are on a whole different level. It takes more than confidence to step into the ring with them."
Honoka's eyes sparkled with determination. "I've been training hard, Asuka. I know I've got what it takes to go toe-to-toe with the best of them. Just you wait and see."
Enthusiasm shone in Tamaki's eyes. "~Be careful, boys. Our little Honoka here packs a punch when she's in the ring. Don't let her sweet exterior fool you—she's fierce.~"
This really caught Hwoarang's attention but from what he heard she lost early in the DOA tournament.
"Oh yea?" Hwoarang gave her a skeptical once-over. "Then how'd she lose if she's such a big deal?"
"~Ahh you see in Honoka's match she lost some weird energy blast knocked her out and caused an injury to her opponent. However, those that were watching from the side say the blast came from Honoka~" Tamaki answered.
Honoka blinked in confusion at the green-haired beauty's indication. "Wha? Blast?"
Flashback
"T-The hell?! Just what the hell are you?!" he shuddered, trying to hurry away from her. Honoka examined her hand with both bewilderment and fear.
"W-What's going on? My fist is burning!" she shivered while examining her hand that continued to release a red energy. "What's happening to me? S-So...it is real?"
Another Flashback
A strained moan escaped her throat as the pain pounded softly in her head. Her eyes slowly peeled open to reveal a white patterned ceiling with lights. Honoka blinked, allowing her eyes to adjust to the powerful brightness in the room. With a low grunt, she used the strength in her elbows to sit up and take in her surroundings.
She gripped the sheets tightly and ignored the eerie in the deep abyss of her stomach. Oh, how she despised hospitals with the passion. But for now, she decided not to worry about it and focus on something else at hand.
"What happened?" were the only two words that left her mouth.
End Flashback
Honoka never thought she would end up asking that question today. Because after everything that happened so far, it was going to come in last thing she could remember fighting her opponent in her second match of the DOA tournament and then the next thing she knew, she saw complete darkness.
"T-Tamaki, how-"
A wry chuckle cut through Honoka's stammering. "Still the same, unable to keep those wandering hands in check, I see," came the taunting purr of a female voice, rich with a sultry timbre that made Honoka's head whirl around.
Her eyes widened, landing on the source of the voice—a vision in red that made her heart skip a beat in shock and thrill. Certainly, red was meant to make an impression, but on Anna, it did more than stand out—it made her arresting beauty utterly unforgettable.
Tamaki's lips curved into a knowing smile at the sight of the lady in red. "~Anna…it's been a while.~" she purred, her fingers lingering unshakably on Honoka's delicate flesh.
Honoka continued to stare at the irish beauty before them, not being able to take her eyes off her. Anna Williams; the younger and more sociable sister of Nina Williams.
Honoka glanced between Anna and Tamaki. To her surprise, they appeared to know one another.
Anna's red-lipped smile widened, the coy glint in her eye unmistakable. "Indeed, Tamaki. Time does fly," she drawled, eyes dancing with mirth as she took in the scene—her friend's hand still cupping Honoka's assets. "Looks like you've charmed yourself a new toy, or should I say, a little kitten to play with?" Anna remarked, her chuckle as smooth as velvet, head tilting in amused judgment. "And here I thought you might have put a cork in the bottle by now."
Faking a look of wounded pride, Tamaki gave an exaggerated pout, even as her fingers squeezed Honoka's softness just enough to elicit a faint, startled squeak. "~Oh, come on, darling,~" she protested, the endearment falling easily from her lips. "~I've been diligently sober for three whole weeks. Surely, that's deserving of some accolades?~"
"Three weeks my ass." Hwoarang scoffed loudly from across the room. "You were drowning in booze at last night's banquet. Someone had to haul your wasted ass back to your room because, let me quote, 'The floor is refusing to stay still,'" he chuckled, tossing a playful glare at Tamaki.
Flashback
As the clock struck midnight, the chatter and clamor of the day's competition had long since faded, leaving behind a stillness in the hotel's function room. It was a solitude marred only by the gentle snoring of Tamaki, left alone with her head cradled in folded arms atop a table. A lone, empty wine bottle stood vigil beside her, testament to the night's excesses.
Only two male fighters, the residue of the tumultuous evening, remained; their presences looming against the backdrop of dimmed lights.
"Damn, she's out for the count, ain't she?" remarked the rugged Australian MMA fighter, his accent thick as he watched Tamaki's slumbering form.
"No kidding. All that drinking must've done the job."
In her slumber, Tamaki's lips quirked, offering in a half-drunk murmur, "~Another shot…make it double.~" Her cheeks burned with a flush that spoke of both the wine's embrace and the dreams that danced in her head.
A hand, broad and lined with the tales of many a fight, gently shook her. Tamaki's eyelids fluttered open, revealing bleary eyes that drifted into focus upon the unfamiliar faces of the men.
"~What's going on, hmm?~" she ventured, her voice husky from sleep, "~What can I do for you, fine gentlemen?~"
Her gaze dipped, and with a tease of mischief, she toyed with her blue dress, lowering it just enough to suggest more than it showed. "Up for a little fun, perhaps?" She arched a questioning brow, her words slurred but laden with invitation.
"Well, now, I wouldn't be one to—" The Australian MMA fighter was immediately silenced by a hard smack to the head. "OW! The hell was that for?! She's up for it-"
"And she's drunk off her rocker, dumbass!" scolded the american martial artist, pointing to the heavily intoxicated woman. "Take a good look at 'er."
The Australian's gaze lingered on Tamaki, taking in her flushed face and disheveled hair. Yet, his indifference remained as he turned back with a dismissive shrug. "Yeah, so what?"
A sigh of exasperation escaped the American as he countered, "So, don'tcha think it might be a good idea to wait til she's at least sobered up to take her up on that offer?" His glare intensified, his words edged with a sharp warning. "She's clearly ain't in the right state of mind to give consent. Come on, man, your record ain't clean as it is, with that manslaughter charge. Need another?" He shook his head in disapproval.
Silence hung in the air as the Australian processed the words, frustration etched on his face before finally acquiescing with a begrudging snarl, "Tch. Whatever." he growled.
Tamaki, seemingly oblivious to their exchange, beckoned them with a playful, slurred tune, twirling a strand of her emerald hair. "~BoOoOys, don't make a lady wait. Or perhaps you both can take turns - I'm quite generous.~"
The American fighter shook his head in disagreement. "No can do, Miss. We need to get you to your hotel room ASAP, everyone's already gone and you're WAAY off your rocker."
Tamaki pouted in disappointment. "~Aww. Well, that doesn't sound very fun. Okay, then.~" Exhaling, she stretched her arms out towards the combatants, confusing them even more.
"What the heck are you doin', now?" asked the Australian fighter.
"~Mmm…carry me.~" Tamaki slurred with a smile. "~The floor's refusing to stay still.~"
Exasperated yet compassionate, the American breathed out a heavy sigh. "Sweetheart, you're a damn handful, even half-conscious."
End Flashback
Rather than be horrified and embarrassed at her behavior in her drunken state, Tamaki shrugged. "Oops?" she sheepishly laughed, a crooked smile displayed. "I guess kind of let my guard down back there."
"Well, isn't that an understatement." Anna commented, an eyebrow raised.
"No kidding." agreed Asuka.
"That hurts me you'd say that, Anna." Tamaki pouted playfully with a doefull expression. "You know I can't control myself when I'm drunk. I mean, I don't remember much of what happened, but…" she trailed, trying to recollect what happened last night.
"You've gotta be shitting me. Don't tell me you don't remember beggin' to get sandwiched from me and that loser with the weird hair." Marduk inquired with an annoyed expression.
"Hmm?" Tamaki hummed as her head tilted in curiosity. "Sandwiched? You mean a threesome, right?"
"T-Threesome?!" Honoka flushed with embarrassment at the conversation. "Hey, wait a minute. If you don't remember anything from last night, then how come you remember my name?"
"No shit." Hwoarang agreed, becoming just as skeptical as Honoka.
1 Hour Later
Honoka stood on the sidelines along with Asuka, Tamaki and Anna in a more open location outside the building for Hwoarang and Marduk to battle. The duo circled one another in an attempt to intimidate each other.
"Sure you don't wanna back out? It ain't too late, you know." Marduk suggested, squaring up to the Korean fighter. "I'd hate to disappoint your cute little date over there for pummeling you in the ground."
Hwoarang grinned arrogantly. "Talking is a lot less destructive in a fight. I'd expect you to know that from your experience in the ring."
Marduk scoffed then said " I'll show you destructive with my strength cause you won't take a single hit from me"
"Your right I won't take a single hit cause with your bulky build you can't lay a finger on me" replied Hwoarang.
"Oh yeah? You say that now till I have you groveling on the floor" said Marduk
"I bet my grandma can hit harder than you," said Hwoarang.
"Boy, your grandma probably knocked what little sense you had left out because you think you can win," Murdak said with a chuckle.
"Well you-" before Hwoarang could fire off a retort Tamaki cut in.
"Could you two just fight already!" Tamaki shouted.
The two male fighters immediately ended their chit-chat and assumed the position of their fighting stance.
"Enough of the talk, short stuff!" Marduk taunted. "Come at me with everything you got."
"With pleasure." with that said, Hwoarang made the first move and charged at his heavily bulky opponent.
The vale tudo fighter used his heavily muscular arm to block the incoming attack from Hwoarang.
Hwoarang's most impressive fight was probably against Marduk. It was hilarious to see how Marduk tried to keep up with his opponents speed, while trying to endure Hwoarang's powerful short ranged strikes. It was like watching an elephant trying to swap a fly. A very strong and agile fly.
Amazed by the taekwondo's speed and how clean his strikes landed towards his opponent, Honoka's eyes sparkled like a little child wanting candy from a store. "W-Wow, he's really good."
Asuka, on the other hand, wasn't impressed. Not in the slightest. "Yeah, if you're a fan of amateur fighters like this guy." she commented with a bored expression.
Honoka tilted her head at Asuka's remark at Hwoarang and Marduk's fight. "No, I was saying how good he is at holding back." said Honoka
This threw Asuka out of the loop. 'Holding back?' she thought.
"They are probing each other. Marduk isn't really hurt by Hwoarang's attacks. Marduk knows he's slower than Hwoarang so he's just looking for an opportunity to strike by using his bigger build to tank hits" explained Honoka.
Asuka couldn't deny Honoka's explanation once she started to look beyond the surface level of the fight. Neither one is even sweating despite being in combat for the past five minutes. Hwoarang did a risky axe kick attempting to hit Marduk's head but was met by his large forearm. Within a fraction of a second knowing Hwoarang can't dodge bringing in the air, Marduk grabbed Hwoarang's ankle and flung him across the fighting stage.
Anna raised an eyebrow as she observed Honoka. This was the first time she had seen the young girl show such keen perception. "Impressive," Anna mused under her breath, a rare hint of admiration in her tone.
After all, Honoka was known more for her enthusiasm and eagerness than for her intellect. But as she watched the sparring match through Honoka's eyes, Anna couldn't deny the sharpness in her observations. She had noticed the subtle shifts in Hwoarang and Marduk's movements, the calculated strategy underlying their seemingly intense fight.
"Hmm, seems like there's more to you than meets the eye, Honoka," Anna remarked, directing her voice toward the young girl.
Honoka looked up, her eyes still shining with the fervor of a fan watching her favorite fighters. But there was a spark of pride now, a glint that hinted at a deeper understanding lying beneath her exuberant exterior.
"Well, I've always loved watching fights, so I try to pay attention to the details," Honoka explained with a hint of modesty.
Anna nodded, acknowledging Honoka's response. She had to admit, there was a certain charm in Honoka's sincere enthusiasm, something refreshing amidst the complexities of the fighting world. "Well, keep up the good work. Your observation skills might just come in handy," Anna said with a faint smile, her gaze lingering on Honoka for a moment longer before she walked away from the sparring match. Anna couldn't help but feel a sense of intrigue towards Honoka. Perhaps there was more to this cheerful and passionate girl than anyone had realized. It was a thought that lingered in Anna's mind, adding a new layer of curiosity to her perception of Honoka.
Asuka, who had been listening in on their conversation, looked at Honoka with a newfound respect. "I guess there's more to you than just being a fangirl," she remarked, unable to hide the surprise in her tone.
Honoka beamed at the unexpected praise, her eyes shining even brighter now. "Thanks, Asuka! I really love watching fights, and I guess it's paying off," she said, her enthusiasm bubbling over once again.
Hwoarang reorient himself mid air and landed with a roll to reduce the impact to the ground. The two started circling one another both eyeing each other looking for a single flaw to capitalize on in the next round.
Marduk let out a roar as he charged at Hwoarang. Seeing this Hwoarang went to dodge but was caught off guard by Marduk abruptly stopping mid charge already knowing Hwoarang would absolutely move out of the way.
This time grabbing Hwoarang arm Marduk pulled Hwoarang towards him and slammed him to the ground like a rag doll and followed up with his right fist coming down on Hwoarang's face but Hwoarang tilted his head to the side narrowly avoiding the blow.
Capitalizing on the moment Marduk being a little off balance Hwoarang wrapped his legs around Marduk's neck pulling himself towards his face. He then started a series of relentless punches to Marduk's face. Hwoarang paused for a moment, drawing in oxygen roughly before unleashing a torrent of unforgiving blows.
Seeing that he was still sitting upright around Marduk's neck he looked at a very annoyed Marduk with a slight nose bleed.
"Is it too late for a time out?" Hwoarang joked.
He then felt his world turn sideways as he was once again slammed to the ground but harder this time around. That wasn't the end cause Marduk didn't let Hwoarang go as picked him up again and tossed him slightly up in the air before landing a right hook in his gut sending him flying across the stage.
"That hurt like hell… Definitely going to feel that in the morning" said Hwoarang as he got up and saw Marduk menacingly walking towards him.
"Just give it up. You can't bring me down." Marduk gloated.
Marduk did another charge at Hwoarang but this time Hwoarang charged as well diving under Marduk while grabbing his ankle making him fall to the ground face first. As Marduk got up and turned around he was kicked in the face by Hwoarang.
"Is that all you g-" Marduk is cut short by the consecutive spinning kicks by Hwoarang forcing him back until he fell over the stage making him fall out of bounds and making the winner of the "sparring match" Hwoarang.
"Hooray, you won!" Shouted Honoka as she watched Hwoarang get off the fighting stage. However when he dropped down he clutched his stomach.
"Oh my goodness are you alright? I know it was a spar but Marduk hit you really hard in there" Honoka stated in concern.
"This is just a scratch but it's going to hurt like hell in the morning" replied Hwoarang.
Honoka asked Asuka where the ice packs were so Hwoarang wouldn't be as sore in the morning. Marduk however is seething in anger not a Hwoarang but himself for losing the "Sparring match" basically ending his chances for a date with Tamaki.
"~Hey there, big guy. Turn that lovely frown of yours upside down. We can still go out.~" said Tamaki.
"Tch. But I lost the match," Marduk replied.
"~So what? Take it as a learning experience and besides I still want to have fun~" Tamaki responded.
A smirk just appeared on Marduk's face as he picked up Tamaki and placed her on his shoulder. As they went somewhere.
Asuka looking around felt left out seeing those two walk off in the distance with their respective dates.
So much for training for the upcoming preliminaries of the tournament.
First, her and Honoka's training session had been interrupted, second, Honoka got fondled, and lastly, both her and Tamaki had run off with their respective dates.
"Great…" she quietly spoke with frustration.