So full of hate 2
Welcome to chapter two! A big thank you to all my reviewers!
Disclaimer: I do not own prince of Tennis or albed language (borrowed from Final Fantasy to create dragon speech) and Mythics of course belong to themselves!!
Mild language warning!! Yes I know Ryoma doesn't tend to curse, but in this story, he is angry and afraid.
SO FULL OF HATE.
Chapter Two
STORY: TORA MACAW.
--------
Two figures stood side by side as they observed the preparations for the next singles match. Running a hand through his short black hair, Nanjiroh smirked at his companion when the taller man voiced his concern.
" Your son faces a strong and dangerous opponent."
" He'll win" came the flippant reply
" Then your not afraid...of what the crazed one may do?"
Dark eyes glanced up to meet deep brown ones and the raven-haired man huffed importantly.
" Once on a tennis court with his racket in hand, Ryoma has no fear. He will beat down that arrogant lizard and make him crawl back under whatever rock he came from."
Fiddling nervously with his camera, Inoue wished he had the same confidence.
------------------------
Leaning in so she could stare straight into Ryoma's eyes, Tomo gave the boy a saucy wink then straightened to loudly tell him to be careful and that he must be the winner. Standing beside the girl, Shiba gave the glaring young male a cheerful smile.
" If you win, I'll post your photo in the magazine!"
Snorting, Ryoma tugged at his cap and grumbled; " Big deal. I've had my photo in many magazines."
Moving around to stand before him, the woman crouched down and gazed straight into his eyes so the youth squirmed uncomfortably. ' Beware the beast imp'
For a moment, Ryoma held the disguised Hikari's gaze, then mumbled " Mada mada da ne."
Pushing to his feet, he fixed his eyes onto the battle ground as the call went up for the match to begin.
" That's it Ryoma Sama !" cried Tomo enthusiastically. " I'll support you, so go get em!"
" Ryoma kun... be careful."
Half turning to shoot a quick glare at a very shy and red faced Sakuno, Ryoma spent a few seconds eyeing the hidden shadow of her true form before contemptuously sticking his nose in the air and walking away with a quip of; " Nothing's started yet."
With his head down and his hands thrust deep into his pockets, Ryoma strolled out; his racket tucked beneath his left arm, his heart starting to beat fast at the imminent confrontation as Takashi's voice floated in his ears.
" Echizen, don't forget what I told you."
Ryoma acknowledged the sentence with a low " Hmmmmm"
" Work hard Echizen." Called Fuji then silently added, ' If he hurts you, he shall have to deal with me.'
Beside the open-eyed ' Blood' youth, Eiji cupped his hands to his mouth and raised his own voice. " I'm watching, so make sure you win nya!"
His own voice tinged with trepidation, Momo' declared loudly; " Don't hurt yourself!.....please, by the pride of my clan, let him be alright..."
Hearing the quiet plea, Inui turned to Momo' as he wrote up his data. " If he loses, there is always the next match, but I doubt that will happen. Ryoma has a 90 percent success rate and Akutsu wont be foolish enough to try his dragon powers with so many humans around."
Sighing, the bristle-haired youth turned appealing eyes onto Tezuka as he watched Ryoma with undisguised pride.
" Please captain, you are lord dragon, can't you stop this?"
" I cannot interfere Momoshiro. Echizen must do this alone. Not only for the team, but for the sake of his pride."
" To Aion' s realm with his pride!" Hissed Momo' angrily. " He could get killed out there!"
Hazel-gold eyes gleamed with understanding, but the Seigaku power house didn't miss the undercurrent of ' You dare to argue with me?' in his cold gaze as the captain spoke. " Momoshiro, He is watched by many Hikari. There will be no killing."
Dealing his left palm a frustrated punch, Momo' ground his teeth and grumbled " Useless cloud dancers." under his breath as the warriors prepared to meet.
-------------------------------------------
Striding past Ryzuaki, Ryoma heard her voice speak softly within his skull. ' The green is killer. Don't let your guard down for a moment!'
Annoyed by the intense smothering he was receiving on all sides, Ryoma resisted the urge to shout for everyone to just shut up and let him deal with it by stalking up to the net to stare at the place where his rival stood waiting. Hands in pockets and racket handle pushed through his arms so it lay against his back, Akutsu Jin stared at the smaller boy as if he were about to eat him. Both then locked eyes in a wordless stare of challenge, ignoring the linesman's call of " Akutsu! Step forward!"
Over next to the bench where Mikiya Banda sat smiling as always, young Dan Taichi shook his head with worry as his tennis idol swung his head about to glare daggers at the old coach. A profound mind link had effortlessly invaded his skull, making the silver-haired teenager curl his lip as he went back to watching his potential prey.
' Keep your focus and show the demon imp the true power of a green dragon.'
Invisible wings rustled irritably as the youth sent his reply. ' Tennis isn't exciting at all. I would much rather just rip him limb from limb and hear his screams for mercy...which I wont give him.'
The linesman rapped out his order a second time in a firm, no-nonsense tone, making the scowling Yamabuki player step out. At his back, Taichi said softly to the elder man as he watched his friend move forward; " Coach, he said he has to win this game."
Better known by all as Banji, Mikiya turned his serene gaze onto the trembling youngster. ' Don't fret hatchling. This is an important game and he wont lose. Just watch the fight and learn.'
Dan nodded determinedly. He knew his team mate was strong and that of course he would win, but the small seed of doubt implanted in his mind continued to grow
--------------------------------------------
Firmly planting his feet with every measured step he took, Akutsu approached the net, then snarled across the taught structure. One hand suddenly lifted, his racket grasped tight in his fist as he thrust it hard at Ryoma. Abruptly stopping just short of connecting with his opponents cap brim, Akutsu was nonplussed by the smaller youth's failure to flinch. Smirking at the Seigaku player's apparent lack of fear as he glaringly returned the look the taller teen was giving him, the mythic monster grudgingly found himself to be impressed.
' A fine display of courage, but you are a fool.' Speaking out loud when Ryoma responded to the telepathic threat with a shrug, Akutsu told him; " I'll play this match, but ...there is a price you must pay when you lose!'
" Whatever." snarked Ryoma with a tug at his cap.
Feeling as if the boy was completely ignoring him, Akutsu grew angry. He was accustomed to seeing his opponents squirm, and the powerful young dragon took it as a personal affront that the imp didn't even so much as cower a little in his presence. Showing his teeth, the taller youth made a sudden lunge as if to grab the younger players shirt and the linesman's voice rang out as he stepped in to intervene. " Hey you! Don't provoke your opponent! Step back or be disqualified!"
Giving the shouting man a killer glare, Akutsu scratched at his racket strings and moved back into position without a word.
In the Seigaku section of the spectators surrounding the court, Momo' growled in self righteous wrath and struggled to control his overwhelming desire to charge out onto the battle field and fight the dragon on the spot. " He wants to fight? Fine! I'll give him a fight!"
Tezuka sent the outraged mongoose a look that could freeze water and the bristle-haired youth's anger subsided. Beside him, Tomo sadly shook her head as she tutted and remarked; " What a bad attitude! Ryoma Sama had better beat him!"
Meanwhile, Banji sent a firm command to Akutsu to just play the match, then turned to smile at Ryzuaki when he noticed the woman angrily watching him.
' Control that brute! This is a tennis match, not brawl!'
His ever present smile widening, the old man returned the mind send with the ease of long practice. ' It's a battle of fate my dear. The egg as been laid...lets see what colour the hatchling is .'
Ryuzaki snorted contemptuously. ' I'm not your dear and he had better not harm the one the king himself so fiercely protects.'
Banji gave short snigger of mocking laughter. ' The king? Huh! We do not follow his rule!'
' Oh?' came the disguised red dragon's sneering reply ' But wait, I see your fellow slime hide has a bond guard! If a Hikari is with him...'
' He was forced by that accursed sun scale and his pet feather dusters!'
Arms firmly folded, the old female coach of Seigaku ignored her rival dragon's silent fuming and tuned her mind fully onto the match.
Else where about the grounds, Inoue watched the over the net conflict and turned fearful eyes to his friend. " Akutsu is freak among his kind. Your son must be careful."
Nonchalantly flicking ash from his cigarette, Nanjiroh remained unconcerned. " Ryoma will tame him."
------------------------------
Below the mens vantage point, Ryoma won the spin and elected to serve. Pacing into the forehand position, Ryoma then nailed his rival to the spot with his eyes. Conversation fell silent and screaming tension filled the air as the Seigaku player tossed the ball.
It flew high, then seemed to hang suspended against the deep blue vault of the heavens before falling back to earth in slow motion.
The red framed racket rose to meet it, then a powerful blur of movement the young man sent the object hurtling toward Akutsu with brutal force. Standing near the base line, the tall youth braced himself for its approach. But to his horror, the ball coyly curved down to drop just short of clearing the net. Charging in, Akutsu drew back his racket; only to freeze in shock as realised the extent of his mistake. The shot had been a perfectly set trap that he unwittingly blundered into when the ball unexpectedly bounced up and slammed hard into his face.
The Yamabuki player sailed backwards, only just vaguely aware of Dan's frightened cry and Ryoma's mocking laugh floating in his ears. Falling onto his back, Akutsu's skull connected with the court and he momentarily lay stunned.
Sunlight flashing off his glasses, Inui smirked wickedly then commented for the benefit of his team mates; " That ball was hit only a short distance, but is strong and powerful."
Around him were several nods of agreement as Akutsu regained his feet.
Holding his racket aloft, Ryoma smoothly taunted his fallen foe. " So embarrassing to fall like that! But...." he broke off to snap his weapon forward so it pointed straight at a snarling teenager, "....don't ever look down on tennis...or my kind! "
An ugly growl sounded low in the other youth's throat as he glared murderously at the first grader. ' So! You think you've won with a lucky shot limp wing? You will pay with your life!'
Ryoma' s grin at the threat was demonic as his eyes gleamed goldenly and his hidden tail whipped about like that of an angry cat.
' Mada mada da ne.'
Akutsu lifted his hand to wipe at the spittle shining on his lips before his eyes narrowed into evil slits and his mind voice spoke with intense hatred. ' So the imp CAN send! Very well bastard, I give you this challenge. When I win, you will give up tennis forever and slink back down to Thleer with your tail between your legs!'
Golden eyes seemed to snap then spark dangerously. ' When I win, you will not only give up tennis, but you will accept your kings law, obey your Hikari bond mate and stop acting like an arse hole! '
Pale amber orbs blinked in astonishment as though he couldn't believe what he was hearing. Standing on an open tennis court and fully vulnerable to his full strength, the very young demon was daring to threaten him ! Closing his eyes, Akutsu held his arms stiffly at his sides as his shoulders began to shake. Then his mouth twisted as the spasms worked their way up his chest to burst out of his throat as fiendish laughter that held no trace of any humour.
' Then you agree to my terms?'
Seeing Ryoma's immediate nod, the human-disguised green dragon threw back his head and roared with cruel, triumphant laughter.
From where he stood watching, Takashi focused his mind and found he was able to partly catch snatches of the private speech as talk took a different turn.
' I wont just beat you, but I'll take revenge for the insult inflicted on Kawamura and for what you did to Arai sempai!"
Shocked, the youth half turned to Tezuka to inquire if he too was listening. Receiving only a quick, icy glare in response, Takashi gulped and hung his head in submission as on the court two sets of eyes tried to out stare each other.
With everyone closely watching, Akutsu suddenly dropped into a semi-crouch; his racket held ready as he awaited Ryoma's attack.
Standing at Sengoku's side as the vice captain intently viewed the match, Dan gasped in surprise and looked up at the flame-haired player. " That's the first time I've seen him show that stance so quickly into a game!"
Cocking his head to one side, Sengoku regarded the younger boy curiously. " Oh?"
Hearing their voices drifting on the breeze, Takashi invoked his second sight to see the Hikari's reactions. Large wings of white feather were held stiffly at his sides as the backs of his hands rested on his hips and the disguised red dragon could tell the heavenly being was giving his bond dragon his complete attention as Ryoma prepared to serve.
Standing with his left foot crossed before his right, the Seigaku player bounced the ball four times, then changed the racket to his left hand. Only just hearing Horio's excited cry of " A twist serve!" floating on the light wind, Ryoma briefly locked eyes with loving twin orbs of deep purple, then hit the little round object with an explosive crack.
His body bent at the hips, his long muscular legs braced apart, Akutsu eagerly watched as the ball whistled directly for the point between his eyes. But not to be taken by the same trick twice, he swiftly raised his racket to block the offending ball and send it roaring back over the net. Rapidly sliding back in a low-leg stretch position, he picked up his enemy's shocked thought of " So fast"
and coiled himself for a spring.
Returning the fire, Ryoma's eyes darted about the arena and widened in disbelief as they failed to find his challenger. ' Did you teleport...THERE!'
Leaping up like he was trying to fly to the clouds, the taller teenager sprang high into the air, his arms hanging down and trailing in his wake. Once at the pinnacle of his mighty jump, the Yamabuki youth straightened to his full height and sent the ball lancing downward with a triumphant smirk of pure evil. Seeing the ball about to fly wide of his back, Ryoma spun about to gallop along the courts length and made a desperate lunge, But the ball missed the satisfying kiss of hard string by a mere whisker and the younger boy sadly measured his length on the uncaring ground.
Crouching like a tiger in long grass, Akutsu rested his weight on his left knee and briefly displayed his sharp dragon's fangs before letting his human teeth show in a harsh, mocking grin. Noticing the draconian features, Inoue shook his head at the green's brashness.
" Not only did he hit a diagonal ball from a great height, but he shows his true fangs! It's terrible he should want to take such a risk! If the humans see..."
Gazing up at his fellow demon, Nanjiroh lazily waved the hidden shadow of his tail and flapped a dismissive hand.
" They can't see it, he's shielding! Besides, this is a wonderful game."
" Well..." Said the dark skinned man while thoughtfully rubbing his chin, " ....this game may change a lot..."
One arm folded across his chest, the other lifted so his index finger rested just below his lips, Fuji drank in the quick flash of pointy teeth then remarked softly; " It's astonishing he can make such a shot without using his wings to stay in the air."
" Shows his human body has great strength." Remarked Inui as he lightly tapped his jaw line with his data file. " It's unusual skill, but a strong offensive move. Echizen could be in trouble."
Oblivious to the carefully guarded comments of the mythic's surrounding him, Ryoma got back on his feet to stare fire and ice at the still smirking Akutsu.
' I will enjoy seeing you suffer when crush you, weak little bat.'
Wings hidden except to those with power to see them, snapped out; the clawed tips tipping towards the great reptile in a threatening gesture. Drawing himself up, the powerful Yamabuki youth sneered at his smaller adversary's defiance.
" Can't win. You won't get another score. Give it up lyja ryhkan, this match...IS MINE!"
Large golden eyes flashed dangerously and a shocked gasp rose from certain individuals listening in. Although he didn't understand the words, he knew they had been spoken in draconian and it only took a quick glance at Tezuka's face to know it had been an insult.
Hanging onto Sakuno's shoulders, Tomo gasped along with her friend as braided girl shuddered and mumbled; " He his different from any dragon I have ever known."
" I know." Answered her friend with feeling as she comforted her class mates distress.
Grinding his jaw, Banji sent a firm mental command to his player. ' Enough! Finish this!'
Akutsu half snarled, but obeyed as he moved back and took Ryoma's new serve. Back and forth the missile sailed with silent venom; the brief loud smack of ball pounding against string the only sound as nature itself seemed to hold its breath in the palpable tension looming over the war zone.
Twisting his body in mid-air, Akutsu slammed the ball hard; the felt covered object shooting back to power forcefully against his enemy's racket. Gritting his teeth due to the incredible amount of force fighting his arms, Ryoma ignored the protests of his muscles to grip his weapon in both hands and send the ball winging back to the far side.
His features twisting into a crazed leer, the older youth rushed to the net and sent the ball back to his opponent with a devastating blow. Undaunted, the raven-haired Seigaku regular charged determinedly in to whack it with a strong forehand. However, his antagonist was ready and with a mighty leap out from of nowhere he slammed it back home. In a desperate lunge, Ryoma only just managed to keep his footing as he made the return, but Akutsu effortlessly intercepted and sent it back wide so the shorter boy had run hard to collect it.
Impressed in spite of himself, Kaido hissed through his teeth and asked a fearful Takashi; " What kind of skill is that?"
The brown-haired, quiet youth was about to reply, when a particularly hard shot hit Ryoma's racket at a tricky angle and shot away for Yamabuki's point.
Momo's eyes became grim as he glared up at his team mates. " That ball was fast and powerful. my poor chibi didn't stand a chance..."
Having very sharp ears, Eiji Heard the whispered comment and said to both him and Oishi; " The creature is a monster...nya! No offence to dragons..." He hastily added when Takashi's normally warm brown eyes seemed to burn into him.
Suspending his data writing activities, Inui spoke to the back of Tezuka's head. " He is without doubt, a superior player."
Half turning in the speakers direction, Fuji’s cerulean orbs sparked dangerously, then they closed as his smile returned. " He is a different player. Echizen will win."
" We shall see." rumbled Tezuka, his eyes never leaving his great grandsons face.
Nervously, Takashi sidled up to his captain's side to speak in low, serious tones. " Krucdmo aoac is using his full strength. Ryoma...please be careful."
' He is very strong himself Meddma pinhehk.' came a calm and silent reply as Tezuka watched the on court drama continue to unfold.
Over in a different part of the grounds, similar thoughts chased each other through Nanjiroh's head as the pair of warriors chased after the ball. " He has found worthy prey."
Inuoe whirled about to stare open mouthed at the slyly spoken comment. " Prey? You mean Ryoma? How can you say that?"
Looking positively devilish as he grinned up at his friend, Nanjiroh all but purred his answer. " The prey? Why it's that silver-haired, over sized, blustering gas balloon!"
In the Yamabuki "camp", Dan's large eyes shone with something akin to hero worship as Sengoku watched the boy with open amusement. Almost jumping with excitement, the very young manager cried out; " Your AWESOME Akutsu sempai!"
Giving the short teenager a closed eyed, fatherly smile, the disguised Hikari asked; " Tachi, do you feel good about that? Your friend can be quite savage you know!"
Balling his fists, Dan met the vice-captain's words with defiance. " Sempai, Akutsu isn't terrible at all!"
Rolling his eyes as his little friend went back to watching the match, the flame-haired guardian gave him a real, you've-got-to-be- kidding-me look, then put his mind firmly back on the game.
Gazing adoringly at the teenager he admired, Dan breathed wonderingly as the silver-haired haired youth leapt to take tricky lob shot.
" He is excellent! Akutsu sempai is..." Braking off, he affectionately rubbed at the green head band he wore.
------------
Out on the battle ground, Akutsu kept a punishing pace as he asserted pressure on his younger adversary. Taking malicious pleasure at the frantic light starting to kindle within his enemy's large eyes, he felt a stirring of old feelings; a flickering of here and there sensation that slowly crept its way out of the shadowy recesses of his memories to play like an old movie before his consciousness.
He saw himself trapped in a human body; an aggressive and lonely child who pined for the freedom of the open skies; who bound by the power of his Hikari guardian was unable to do so, and the bitterness of his on going punishment as it ate away at his dark soul. Humans and mythics alike either feared or hated him and young Akutsu despised them all in return. Sengoku had tried to channel the hatchling's rage into strenuous physical activity by teaching him the sport of tennis, but his efforts were in vain. True, he had excelled at the sport, but the youngster lacked both passion and patience. His explosive force and destructive power only created new fear around him. Only the Hikari of the Devine Star clan and the red hatchling he was forced to protect could remain safely in his presence. But then came a new day that bought a new friend.
His fingers hooked over the wire of the courts high fence, Dan's large eyes followed every move his tennis playing hero made. As if own mind was linked to the older youth, he too found himself experiencing past events. These however didn't have years separating them...only a few short months. Quickly, his mind drifted back in time and he saw himself standing just beyond the trammel lines as the regulars finished the days training. Holding a large box of tennis balls, he turned his head when Sengoku strolled up behind him to ask what he was looking at.
" Sempai, who is that?"
Grinning, the flame-haired youth gazed out at the back of a silver-haired teenager. " Ah! He is Akutsu. Banji bought him here for training."
Using his second sight, Dan had viewed the two dragons, then watched the mighty young green with awe as he accurately returned two balls fired in rapid succession.
His coach had then smiled and the bristle-haired teenager had become angry. Savagely flinging down his racket, he stalked fiercely
from the courts. Irritably removing his head band, Akutsu tossed it to the ground and glared with open hostility when a short, dark-haired child had rushed up to him.
" Wait Sempai! This is yours."
Briefly letting his pale orbs drink in the sight of the boy's true form, he rumbled; " Don't want it."
The youngster blinked a few times, then trotted at Akutsu's heels. Holding up the grass-coloured object looped loosely over his wrists, he tried a second time to get the older dragon's attention. " I'll wash it for you."
Not so much as sparing the boy a glance, the tall youth made for the gates; then spoke flatly as he stared straight ahead.
" Throw it away."
Gazing hopefully at the bristle-haired teenager's back, Dan then asked if he could have the head band for himself.
That got Akutsu's attention and for a long moment he paused to look back over his shoulder and glare down his nose at the eager kohai. ' Take it and go away...stupid yolk crawler'
Smiling broadly, young Dan gushed loudly as his cheeks turned a delicate shade of pink; " You're so skilled! I really like to watch you play!"
' Yeh...whatever egg crusher. Go chase your tail or something.'
As the sullen older beast stalked away, Dan gazed adoringly after him; then looked down at the head band with one thought in mind; " One day, I will play like him."
-----------------------------------
Blinking himself back to the present day, the first grader with the dark blue-black hair held up his tight clenched fists and silently willed his idol to win.
Akutsu dealt the ball a blow of such ferocity that Ryoma had trouble returning it. A second hit, just as powerful as the first followed and the cap wearing youth from Seigaku jumped high at the net to meet it. As his silver-haired opponent swung his arm a third time, he snarled with savage glee; " Tiny imp, it's no use!"
The shocked gasp of the watching crowd only just tickled at the edge of Ryoma's hearing as the ball flew past his back and a chance for was a point lost. With his antagonist leading one to zero, this latest loss of a score was not only bruising his ego, but also scratching harshly at his tender pride. Lifting his head, his blazing golden orbs met his enemy's beady amber ones with defiance.
' One battle does not win a war. I will have revenge for what you did to my sempais.'
Closing his eyes, Akutsu sniggered at the telepathic threat ringing firmly in his skull and answered with a mind tone dripping with arrogance. ' So now you play for revenge. I see. You are a fool twice over'
The black-haired youth's answer was a hard glare as he seemed to speak with his eyes alone. There was no fear or anxiety in them now; only grim determination.
Hidden from the eyes of those unable to see, the ghostly form of a dragon hung phantom-like over Akutsu. A long tail lashed from side to side and wings rustled along with his crest of hair as he loomed hungrily over his tiny prey.
' Stupid demon off shoot...so be it. I shall throw you down to Thleer myself...after I have ripped your wings from your shoulders. Then, I will make that miserable pile of damp coal you call Takashi suffer greatly for your loss. And after that? Well maybe I'll hunt down and EAT that mindless snake slayer friend of yours! Oh yes! I shall enjoy watching him die in agony from my poison..'
' NO! Curse you bastard! I'll win this war and YOU will be the one who suffers!'
Curling his lip, the disguised green glared daggers at the young demon as he noticed a faint sheen of gold beginning to appear on his victim's solid black wings.
For Ryoma, the teenager hardly noticed his life fluid begin to burn as ancient blood started to serge powerfully through his veins and his anger ran hot. Not only had the green threatened his own life, but also the lives of those dearest to him. An ugly vision of his beloved Momo' choking and dying a gruesome, painful death in the grip of Akutsu's claws both terrified and outraged him.
Trembling with barely contained fury, a single great up welling of emotion struck him with shocking force; I must win! For it was no longer a simple matter of team pride. His very life and the life of the one he loved had become much higher stakes.
To be continued.....................................................
Dragon translation notes.
Lyja ryhkan...cave hanger....an insult word meaning Bat.
Krucdmo aoac...Ghostly eyes...Akutsu Jin's true dragon name.
Meddma pinhehk...Little burning...Takashi's true dragon name.
Three will be up soon
Disclaimer: I do not own prince of Tennis or albed language (borrowed from Final Fantasy to create dragon speech) and Mythics of course belong to themselves!!
Mild language warning!! Yes I know Ryoma doesn't tend to curse, but in this story, he is angry and afraid.
SO FULL OF HATE.
Chapter Two
STORY: TORA MACAW.
--------
Two figures stood side by side as they observed the preparations for the next singles match. Running a hand through his short black hair, Nanjiroh smirked at his companion when the taller man voiced his concern.
" Your son faces a strong and dangerous opponent."
" He'll win" came the flippant reply
" Then your not afraid...of what the crazed one may do?"
Dark eyes glanced up to meet deep brown ones and the raven-haired man huffed importantly.
" Once on a tennis court with his racket in hand, Ryoma has no fear. He will beat down that arrogant lizard and make him crawl back under whatever rock he came from."
Fiddling nervously with his camera, Inoue wished he had the same confidence.
------------------------
Leaning in so she could stare straight into Ryoma's eyes, Tomo gave the boy a saucy wink then straightened to loudly tell him to be careful and that he must be the winner. Standing beside the girl, Shiba gave the glaring young male a cheerful smile.
" If you win, I'll post your photo in the magazine!"
Snorting, Ryoma tugged at his cap and grumbled; " Big deal. I've had my photo in many magazines."
Moving around to stand before him, the woman crouched down and gazed straight into his eyes so the youth squirmed uncomfortably. ' Beware the beast imp'
For a moment, Ryoma held the disguised Hikari's gaze, then mumbled " Mada mada da ne."
Pushing to his feet, he fixed his eyes onto the battle ground as the call went up for the match to begin.
" That's it Ryoma Sama !" cried Tomo enthusiastically. " I'll support you, so go get em!"
" Ryoma kun... be careful."
Half turning to shoot a quick glare at a very shy and red faced Sakuno, Ryoma spent a few seconds eyeing the hidden shadow of her true form before contemptuously sticking his nose in the air and walking away with a quip of; " Nothing's started yet."
With his head down and his hands thrust deep into his pockets, Ryoma strolled out; his racket tucked beneath his left arm, his heart starting to beat fast at the imminent confrontation as Takashi's voice floated in his ears.
" Echizen, don't forget what I told you."
Ryoma acknowledged the sentence with a low " Hmmmmm"
" Work hard Echizen." Called Fuji then silently added, ' If he hurts you, he shall have to deal with me.'
Beside the open-eyed ' Blood' youth, Eiji cupped his hands to his mouth and raised his own voice. " I'm watching, so make sure you win nya!"
His own voice tinged with trepidation, Momo' declared loudly; " Don't hurt yourself!.....please, by the pride of my clan, let him be alright..."
Hearing the quiet plea, Inui turned to Momo' as he wrote up his data. " If he loses, there is always the next match, but I doubt that will happen. Ryoma has a 90 percent success rate and Akutsu wont be foolish enough to try his dragon powers with so many humans around."
Sighing, the bristle-haired youth turned appealing eyes onto Tezuka as he watched Ryoma with undisguised pride.
" Please captain, you are lord dragon, can't you stop this?"
" I cannot interfere Momoshiro. Echizen must do this alone. Not only for the team, but for the sake of his pride."
" To Aion' s realm with his pride!" Hissed Momo' angrily. " He could get killed out there!"
Hazel-gold eyes gleamed with understanding, but the Seigaku power house didn't miss the undercurrent of ' You dare to argue with me?' in his cold gaze as the captain spoke. " Momoshiro, He is watched by many Hikari. There will be no killing."
Dealing his left palm a frustrated punch, Momo' ground his teeth and grumbled " Useless cloud dancers." under his breath as the warriors prepared to meet.
-------------------------------------------
Striding past Ryzuaki, Ryoma heard her voice speak softly within his skull. ' The green is killer. Don't let your guard down for a moment!'
Annoyed by the intense smothering he was receiving on all sides, Ryoma resisted the urge to shout for everyone to just shut up and let him deal with it by stalking up to the net to stare at the place where his rival stood waiting. Hands in pockets and racket handle pushed through his arms so it lay against his back, Akutsu Jin stared at the smaller boy as if he were about to eat him. Both then locked eyes in a wordless stare of challenge, ignoring the linesman's call of " Akutsu! Step forward!"
Over next to the bench where Mikiya Banda sat smiling as always, young Dan Taichi shook his head with worry as his tennis idol swung his head about to glare daggers at the old coach. A profound mind link had effortlessly invaded his skull, making the silver-haired teenager curl his lip as he went back to watching his potential prey.
' Keep your focus and show the demon imp the true power of a green dragon.'
Invisible wings rustled irritably as the youth sent his reply. ' Tennis isn't exciting at all. I would much rather just rip him limb from limb and hear his screams for mercy...which I wont give him.'
The linesman rapped out his order a second time in a firm, no-nonsense tone, making the scowling Yamabuki player step out. At his back, Taichi said softly to the elder man as he watched his friend move forward; " Coach, he said he has to win this game."
Better known by all as Banji, Mikiya turned his serene gaze onto the trembling youngster. ' Don't fret hatchling. This is an important game and he wont lose. Just watch the fight and learn.'
Dan nodded determinedly. He knew his team mate was strong and that of course he would win, but the small seed of doubt implanted in his mind continued to grow
--------------------------------------------
Firmly planting his feet with every measured step he took, Akutsu approached the net, then snarled across the taught structure. One hand suddenly lifted, his racket grasped tight in his fist as he thrust it hard at Ryoma. Abruptly stopping just short of connecting with his opponents cap brim, Akutsu was nonplussed by the smaller youth's failure to flinch. Smirking at the Seigaku player's apparent lack of fear as he glaringly returned the look the taller teen was giving him, the mythic monster grudgingly found himself to be impressed.
' A fine display of courage, but you are a fool.' Speaking out loud when Ryoma responded to the telepathic threat with a shrug, Akutsu told him; " I'll play this match, but ...there is a price you must pay when you lose!'
" Whatever." snarked Ryoma with a tug at his cap.
Feeling as if the boy was completely ignoring him, Akutsu grew angry. He was accustomed to seeing his opponents squirm, and the powerful young dragon took it as a personal affront that the imp didn't even so much as cower a little in his presence. Showing his teeth, the taller youth made a sudden lunge as if to grab the younger players shirt and the linesman's voice rang out as he stepped in to intervene. " Hey you! Don't provoke your opponent! Step back or be disqualified!"
Giving the shouting man a killer glare, Akutsu scratched at his racket strings and moved back into position without a word.
In the Seigaku section of the spectators surrounding the court, Momo' growled in self righteous wrath and struggled to control his overwhelming desire to charge out onto the battle field and fight the dragon on the spot. " He wants to fight? Fine! I'll give him a fight!"
Tezuka sent the outraged mongoose a look that could freeze water and the bristle-haired youth's anger subsided. Beside him, Tomo sadly shook her head as she tutted and remarked; " What a bad attitude! Ryoma Sama had better beat him!"
Meanwhile, Banji sent a firm command to Akutsu to just play the match, then turned to smile at Ryzuaki when he noticed the woman angrily watching him.
' Control that brute! This is a tennis match, not brawl!'
His ever present smile widening, the old man returned the mind send with the ease of long practice. ' It's a battle of fate my dear. The egg as been laid...lets see what colour the hatchling is .'
Ryuzaki snorted contemptuously. ' I'm not your dear and he had better not harm the one the king himself so fiercely protects.'
Banji gave short snigger of mocking laughter. ' The king? Huh! We do not follow his rule!'
' Oh?' came the disguised red dragon's sneering reply ' But wait, I see your fellow slime hide has a bond guard! If a Hikari is with him...'
' He was forced by that accursed sun scale and his pet feather dusters!'
Arms firmly folded, the old female coach of Seigaku ignored her rival dragon's silent fuming and tuned her mind fully onto the match.
Else where about the grounds, Inoue watched the over the net conflict and turned fearful eyes to his friend. " Akutsu is freak among his kind. Your son must be careful."
Nonchalantly flicking ash from his cigarette, Nanjiroh remained unconcerned. " Ryoma will tame him."
------------------------------
Below the mens vantage point, Ryoma won the spin and elected to serve. Pacing into the forehand position, Ryoma then nailed his rival to the spot with his eyes. Conversation fell silent and screaming tension filled the air as the Seigaku player tossed the ball.
It flew high, then seemed to hang suspended against the deep blue vault of the heavens before falling back to earth in slow motion.
The red framed racket rose to meet it, then a powerful blur of movement the young man sent the object hurtling toward Akutsu with brutal force. Standing near the base line, the tall youth braced himself for its approach. But to his horror, the ball coyly curved down to drop just short of clearing the net. Charging in, Akutsu drew back his racket; only to freeze in shock as realised the extent of his mistake. The shot had been a perfectly set trap that he unwittingly blundered into when the ball unexpectedly bounced up and slammed hard into his face.
The Yamabuki player sailed backwards, only just vaguely aware of Dan's frightened cry and Ryoma's mocking laugh floating in his ears. Falling onto his back, Akutsu's skull connected with the court and he momentarily lay stunned.
Sunlight flashing off his glasses, Inui smirked wickedly then commented for the benefit of his team mates; " That ball was hit only a short distance, but is strong and powerful."
Around him were several nods of agreement as Akutsu regained his feet.
Holding his racket aloft, Ryoma smoothly taunted his fallen foe. " So embarrassing to fall like that! But...." he broke off to snap his weapon forward so it pointed straight at a snarling teenager, "....don't ever look down on tennis...or my kind! "
An ugly growl sounded low in the other youth's throat as he glared murderously at the first grader. ' So! You think you've won with a lucky shot limp wing? You will pay with your life!'
Ryoma' s grin at the threat was demonic as his eyes gleamed goldenly and his hidden tail whipped about like that of an angry cat.
' Mada mada da ne.'
Akutsu lifted his hand to wipe at the spittle shining on his lips before his eyes narrowed into evil slits and his mind voice spoke with intense hatred. ' So the imp CAN send! Very well bastard, I give you this challenge. When I win, you will give up tennis forever and slink back down to Thleer with your tail between your legs!'
Golden eyes seemed to snap then spark dangerously. ' When I win, you will not only give up tennis, but you will accept your kings law, obey your Hikari bond mate and stop acting like an arse hole! '
Pale amber orbs blinked in astonishment as though he couldn't believe what he was hearing. Standing on an open tennis court and fully vulnerable to his full strength, the very young demon was daring to threaten him ! Closing his eyes, Akutsu held his arms stiffly at his sides as his shoulders began to shake. Then his mouth twisted as the spasms worked their way up his chest to burst out of his throat as fiendish laughter that held no trace of any humour.
' Then you agree to my terms?'
Seeing Ryoma's immediate nod, the human-disguised green dragon threw back his head and roared with cruel, triumphant laughter.
From where he stood watching, Takashi focused his mind and found he was able to partly catch snatches of the private speech as talk took a different turn.
' I wont just beat you, but I'll take revenge for the insult inflicted on Kawamura and for what you did to Arai sempai!"
Shocked, the youth half turned to Tezuka to inquire if he too was listening. Receiving only a quick, icy glare in response, Takashi gulped and hung his head in submission as on the court two sets of eyes tried to out stare each other.
With everyone closely watching, Akutsu suddenly dropped into a semi-crouch; his racket held ready as he awaited Ryoma's attack.
Standing at Sengoku's side as the vice captain intently viewed the match, Dan gasped in surprise and looked up at the flame-haired player. " That's the first time I've seen him show that stance so quickly into a game!"
Cocking his head to one side, Sengoku regarded the younger boy curiously. " Oh?"
Hearing their voices drifting on the breeze, Takashi invoked his second sight to see the Hikari's reactions. Large wings of white feather were held stiffly at his sides as the backs of his hands rested on his hips and the disguised red dragon could tell the heavenly being was giving his bond dragon his complete attention as Ryoma prepared to serve.
Standing with his left foot crossed before his right, the Seigaku player bounced the ball four times, then changed the racket to his left hand. Only just hearing Horio's excited cry of " A twist serve!" floating on the light wind, Ryoma briefly locked eyes with loving twin orbs of deep purple, then hit the little round object with an explosive crack.
His body bent at the hips, his long muscular legs braced apart, Akutsu eagerly watched as the ball whistled directly for the point between his eyes. But not to be taken by the same trick twice, he swiftly raised his racket to block the offending ball and send it roaring back over the net. Rapidly sliding back in a low-leg stretch position, he picked up his enemy's shocked thought of " So fast"
and coiled himself for a spring.
Returning the fire, Ryoma's eyes darted about the arena and widened in disbelief as they failed to find his challenger. ' Did you teleport...THERE!'
Leaping up like he was trying to fly to the clouds, the taller teenager sprang high into the air, his arms hanging down and trailing in his wake. Once at the pinnacle of his mighty jump, the Yamabuki youth straightened to his full height and sent the ball lancing downward with a triumphant smirk of pure evil. Seeing the ball about to fly wide of his back, Ryoma spun about to gallop along the courts length and made a desperate lunge, But the ball missed the satisfying kiss of hard string by a mere whisker and the younger boy sadly measured his length on the uncaring ground.
Crouching like a tiger in long grass, Akutsu rested his weight on his left knee and briefly displayed his sharp dragon's fangs before letting his human teeth show in a harsh, mocking grin. Noticing the draconian features, Inoue shook his head at the green's brashness.
" Not only did he hit a diagonal ball from a great height, but he shows his true fangs! It's terrible he should want to take such a risk! If the humans see..."
Gazing up at his fellow demon, Nanjiroh lazily waved the hidden shadow of his tail and flapped a dismissive hand.
" They can't see it, he's shielding! Besides, this is a wonderful game."
" Well..." Said the dark skinned man while thoughtfully rubbing his chin, " ....this game may change a lot..."
One arm folded across his chest, the other lifted so his index finger rested just below his lips, Fuji drank in the quick flash of pointy teeth then remarked softly; " It's astonishing he can make such a shot without using his wings to stay in the air."
" Shows his human body has great strength." Remarked Inui as he lightly tapped his jaw line with his data file. " It's unusual skill, but a strong offensive move. Echizen could be in trouble."
Oblivious to the carefully guarded comments of the mythic's surrounding him, Ryoma got back on his feet to stare fire and ice at the still smirking Akutsu.
' I will enjoy seeing you suffer when crush you, weak little bat.'
Wings hidden except to those with power to see them, snapped out; the clawed tips tipping towards the great reptile in a threatening gesture. Drawing himself up, the powerful Yamabuki youth sneered at his smaller adversary's defiance.
" Can't win. You won't get another score. Give it up lyja ryhkan, this match...IS MINE!"
Large golden eyes flashed dangerously and a shocked gasp rose from certain individuals listening in. Although he didn't understand the words, he knew they had been spoken in draconian and it only took a quick glance at Tezuka's face to know it had been an insult.
Hanging onto Sakuno's shoulders, Tomo gasped along with her friend as braided girl shuddered and mumbled; " He his different from any dragon I have ever known."
" I know." Answered her friend with feeling as she comforted her class mates distress.
Grinding his jaw, Banji sent a firm mental command to his player. ' Enough! Finish this!'
Akutsu half snarled, but obeyed as he moved back and took Ryoma's new serve. Back and forth the missile sailed with silent venom; the brief loud smack of ball pounding against string the only sound as nature itself seemed to hold its breath in the palpable tension looming over the war zone.
Twisting his body in mid-air, Akutsu slammed the ball hard; the felt covered object shooting back to power forcefully against his enemy's racket. Gritting his teeth due to the incredible amount of force fighting his arms, Ryoma ignored the protests of his muscles to grip his weapon in both hands and send the ball winging back to the far side.
His features twisting into a crazed leer, the older youth rushed to the net and sent the ball back to his opponent with a devastating blow. Undaunted, the raven-haired Seigaku regular charged determinedly in to whack it with a strong forehand. However, his antagonist was ready and with a mighty leap out from of nowhere he slammed it back home. In a desperate lunge, Ryoma only just managed to keep his footing as he made the return, but Akutsu effortlessly intercepted and sent it back wide so the shorter boy had run hard to collect it.
Impressed in spite of himself, Kaido hissed through his teeth and asked a fearful Takashi; " What kind of skill is that?"
The brown-haired, quiet youth was about to reply, when a particularly hard shot hit Ryoma's racket at a tricky angle and shot away for Yamabuki's point.
Momo's eyes became grim as he glared up at his team mates. " That ball was fast and powerful. my poor chibi didn't stand a chance..."
Having very sharp ears, Eiji Heard the whispered comment and said to both him and Oishi; " The creature is a monster...nya! No offence to dragons..." He hastily added when Takashi's normally warm brown eyes seemed to burn into him.
Suspending his data writing activities, Inui spoke to the back of Tezuka's head. " He is without doubt, a superior player."
Half turning in the speakers direction, Fuji’s cerulean orbs sparked dangerously, then they closed as his smile returned. " He is a different player. Echizen will win."
" We shall see." rumbled Tezuka, his eyes never leaving his great grandsons face.
Nervously, Takashi sidled up to his captain's side to speak in low, serious tones. " Krucdmo aoac is using his full strength. Ryoma...please be careful."
' He is very strong himself Meddma pinhehk.' came a calm and silent reply as Tezuka watched the on court drama continue to unfold.
Over in a different part of the grounds, similar thoughts chased each other through Nanjiroh's head as the pair of warriors chased after the ball. " He has found worthy prey."
Inuoe whirled about to stare open mouthed at the slyly spoken comment. " Prey? You mean Ryoma? How can you say that?"
Looking positively devilish as he grinned up at his friend, Nanjiroh all but purred his answer. " The prey? Why it's that silver-haired, over sized, blustering gas balloon!"
In the Yamabuki "camp", Dan's large eyes shone with something akin to hero worship as Sengoku watched the boy with open amusement. Almost jumping with excitement, the very young manager cried out; " Your AWESOME Akutsu sempai!"
Giving the short teenager a closed eyed, fatherly smile, the disguised Hikari asked; " Tachi, do you feel good about that? Your friend can be quite savage you know!"
Balling his fists, Dan met the vice-captain's words with defiance. " Sempai, Akutsu isn't terrible at all!"
Rolling his eyes as his little friend went back to watching the match, the flame-haired guardian gave him a real, you've-got-to-be- kidding-me look, then put his mind firmly back on the game.
Gazing adoringly at the teenager he admired, Dan breathed wonderingly as the silver-haired haired youth leapt to take tricky lob shot.
" He is excellent! Akutsu sempai is..." Braking off, he affectionately rubbed at the green head band he wore.
------------
Out on the battle ground, Akutsu kept a punishing pace as he asserted pressure on his younger adversary. Taking malicious pleasure at the frantic light starting to kindle within his enemy's large eyes, he felt a stirring of old feelings; a flickering of here and there sensation that slowly crept its way out of the shadowy recesses of his memories to play like an old movie before his consciousness.
He saw himself trapped in a human body; an aggressive and lonely child who pined for the freedom of the open skies; who bound by the power of his Hikari guardian was unable to do so, and the bitterness of his on going punishment as it ate away at his dark soul. Humans and mythics alike either feared or hated him and young Akutsu despised them all in return. Sengoku had tried to channel the hatchling's rage into strenuous physical activity by teaching him the sport of tennis, but his efforts were in vain. True, he had excelled at the sport, but the youngster lacked both passion and patience. His explosive force and destructive power only created new fear around him. Only the Hikari of the Devine Star clan and the red hatchling he was forced to protect could remain safely in his presence. But then came a new day that bought a new friend.
His fingers hooked over the wire of the courts high fence, Dan's large eyes followed every move his tennis playing hero made. As if own mind was linked to the older youth, he too found himself experiencing past events. These however didn't have years separating them...only a few short months. Quickly, his mind drifted back in time and he saw himself standing just beyond the trammel lines as the regulars finished the days training. Holding a large box of tennis balls, he turned his head when Sengoku strolled up behind him to ask what he was looking at.
" Sempai, who is that?"
Grinning, the flame-haired youth gazed out at the back of a silver-haired teenager. " Ah! He is Akutsu. Banji bought him here for training."
Using his second sight, Dan had viewed the two dragons, then watched the mighty young green with awe as he accurately returned two balls fired in rapid succession.
His coach had then smiled and the bristle-haired teenager had become angry. Savagely flinging down his racket, he stalked fiercely
from the courts. Irritably removing his head band, Akutsu tossed it to the ground and glared with open hostility when a short, dark-haired child had rushed up to him.
" Wait Sempai! This is yours."
Briefly letting his pale orbs drink in the sight of the boy's true form, he rumbled; " Don't want it."
The youngster blinked a few times, then trotted at Akutsu's heels. Holding up the grass-coloured object looped loosely over his wrists, he tried a second time to get the older dragon's attention. " I'll wash it for you."
Not so much as sparing the boy a glance, the tall youth made for the gates; then spoke flatly as he stared straight ahead.
" Throw it away."
Gazing hopefully at the bristle-haired teenager's back, Dan then asked if he could have the head band for himself.
That got Akutsu's attention and for a long moment he paused to look back over his shoulder and glare down his nose at the eager kohai. ' Take it and go away...stupid yolk crawler'
Smiling broadly, young Dan gushed loudly as his cheeks turned a delicate shade of pink; " You're so skilled! I really like to watch you play!"
' Yeh...whatever egg crusher. Go chase your tail or something.'
As the sullen older beast stalked away, Dan gazed adoringly after him; then looked down at the head band with one thought in mind; " One day, I will play like him."
-----------------------------------
Blinking himself back to the present day, the first grader with the dark blue-black hair held up his tight clenched fists and silently willed his idol to win.
Akutsu dealt the ball a blow of such ferocity that Ryoma had trouble returning it. A second hit, just as powerful as the first followed and the cap wearing youth from Seigaku jumped high at the net to meet it. As his silver-haired opponent swung his arm a third time, he snarled with savage glee; " Tiny imp, it's no use!"
The shocked gasp of the watching crowd only just tickled at the edge of Ryoma's hearing as the ball flew past his back and a chance for was a point lost. With his antagonist leading one to zero, this latest loss of a score was not only bruising his ego, but also scratching harshly at his tender pride. Lifting his head, his blazing golden orbs met his enemy's beady amber ones with defiance.
' One battle does not win a war. I will have revenge for what you did to my sempais.'
Closing his eyes, Akutsu sniggered at the telepathic threat ringing firmly in his skull and answered with a mind tone dripping with arrogance. ' So now you play for revenge. I see. You are a fool twice over'
The black-haired youth's answer was a hard glare as he seemed to speak with his eyes alone. There was no fear or anxiety in them now; only grim determination.
Hidden from the eyes of those unable to see, the ghostly form of a dragon hung phantom-like over Akutsu. A long tail lashed from side to side and wings rustled along with his crest of hair as he loomed hungrily over his tiny prey.
' Stupid demon off shoot...so be it. I shall throw you down to Thleer myself...after I have ripped your wings from your shoulders. Then, I will make that miserable pile of damp coal you call Takashi suffer greatly for your loss. And after that? Well maybe I'll hunt down and EAT that mindless snake slayer friend of yours! Oh yes! I shall enjoy watching him die in agony from my poison..'
' NO! Curse you bastard! I'll win this war and YOU will be the one who suffers!'
Curling his lip, the disguised green glared daggers at the young demon as he noticed a faint sheen of gold beginning to appear on his victim's solid black wings.
For Ryoma, the teenager hardly noticed his life fluid begin to burn as ancient blood started to serge powerfully through his veins and his anger ran hot. Not only had the green threatened his own life, but also the lives of those dearest to him. An ugly vision of his beloved Momo' choking and dying a gruesome, painful death in the grip of Akutsu's claws both terrified and outraged him.
Trembling with barely contained fury, a single great up welling of emotion struck him with shocking force; I must win! For it was no longer a simple matter of team pride. His very life and the life of the one he loved had become much higher stakes.
To be continued.....................................................
Dragon translation notes.
Lyja ryhkan...cave hanger....an insult word meaning Bat.
Krucdmo aoac...Ghostly eyes...Akutsu Jin's true dragon name.
Meddma pinhehk...Little burning...Takashi's true dragon name.
Three will be up soon