New AGU Chapter 4: Things left unsaid
Chapter 4: Things left unsaid
Chara Focus: Tackey, jin, junno and yuuta
Angst XD
The party the night before had halted the meeting that Tackey had planned. The random celebration of his ascension to the Samurais was not expected -- after all, it wasn't he who told everyone but one of the Bolts who cluelessly revealed his acceptance to the National Team. Perhaps it was fate telling him what a coward he was for not saying anything after recieving the news weeks before. It was not that he didnt want to say anything -- its just that he didnt know how to say it.He should really be thankful to Kouta for getting it out in the open.
But now, he realized that there is so much to be done. So much to prepare in the little time he has with his team and his family. He really should have said something earlier.
They were now in the Power Plant, actually, their locker room but it was a nickname that they lovingly bestowed upon the place as Lightnings. He was standing in front of everyone, and the few Bolts he had called to join them to resume the meeting that was supposed to happen yesterday.
"Thank you for coming," he smiled at everyone. "And thank you for the support you have given me as a captain all this time. The truth is, I should have told you earlier, but I really didn't have the heart to say anything until Kouta blurted it out. Which I am grateful for -- I may be a warrior in front of the ball but in all honesty when it comes to things like these I am a bloody coward. Regretfully, I have to leave you guys soon. So, let's make the most out of these days."
The usually rowdy lightnings were silent this time. Most were sad to see the captain go and some were wondering the same question which Toma had voiced out.
"So, Captain," he asked. "Have you made a decision? Who are you going to give the Monkey's mouthpiece to?"
The Monkey's mouthpiece is the megaphone which was passed on from generation to generation of captains since the time of Nagase Tomoya. the Legendary Monkey of Aoyama. It was a symbol of leadership among the lightnings.
Tackey looked at the very same megaphone which sat in the corner of the room. He sighed and walked over to it and picked it up. Then he wordlessly walked around the room looking at each member thoughtfully as if he was making a decision. He kind of looked like Peter Pan who was thinking of who to entrust the Lost Boys to-- and in a sense he was.
He had made a decision ages ago about his heir. But, then again he had questioned himself over and over about it. Was it right to bypass the co-captains, Subaru and Toma for this man? Is he really going to lead the Blue lightnings to victory? What if he couldn't? The man he chose after all had a fatal weakness, but he was sure of his talent. Plus, he knew and felt in his heart that this guy was born to lead the Lightnings.
He stepped in front of Jinpei Akanishi and held out the Monkey's Mouthpiece. "Will you take care of the boys?"
Jinpei was surprised. He knew that Tackey often called him the Future Captain of the Lightnings but at the same time, he never really took it that seriously. Because if there was someone deserving of the Megaphone, it was Toma who really lived and breathed the lightnings.
He looked over at Toma who was visibly shocked.
"Are you sure, Captain?" Jinpei asked. "I mean...."
"I know," Tackey looked over at Toma. "I thought about Toma too, but you have the spark, Jinpei. and if you work with Toma---"
"I will not accept this!" Toma protested. "I am more committed than he is!"
"Toma..."
"I won't accept him as captain unless he proves his commitment," Iruka Toma had put his foot down. "Sorry, Captain Tackey, but an irresponsible man like him cannot be the Captain of the Lightnings."
Toma had a point. A very good one in fact-- Jinpei Akanishi as talented a player as he was, had a fatal flaw. He was also dumb as a rock and was on Academic Probation this year. That was the main reason why he had employed his cousin Aya to tutor the boy -- since they knew that they needed Akanishi's skills if they wanted to bring down the Red Flames this year.
"He's still not an official member in my book," Toma continued. "No doubt, we need his strength for the team. He alone is a formidable ally, but according to the Chancellor's manual, We cannot let him join any games if he's on Academic Proby. He has to prove himself first before I concede. If he passes his midterms bringing him out of Academic Probation, I will accept him as my Captain. If he doesn't make it, I will challenge him. How can we have a Captain if he fails? It's a key position that will bring the morale of the team up or down so I can't leave it to a person who isn't reliable. Besides, if he cannot take care of his own grades, how can I trust him to take care of a whole team?"
A buzz was heard through the team as some started to whisper about the situation. Tackey noted the points which Toma raised and knew that they were valid points. Plus, he knew that Toma was right -- in order to lead the team, Jinpei must first prove his worth. If he surpasses this, then he could challenge everything. He nodded. He was about to say something when a smooth voice came from behind the locker room where an outsider sat silently.
"Then, how about this?" the tall and lean man sauntered towards the front where Jinpei Akanishi sat. "Let's make it into a challenge. Whoever has the higher grade in the midterms gets to be captain. Toma vs. Jinpei."
"And who would you be?" Tackey demanded. "Outsiders are not supposed to be in the locker room."
"Captain," Jinpei sighed and shook his head. "This is Tatsuya Uesagi, an old friend of mine..."
"And Jinpei's Older brother. I am here to keep this douchebag in line," the expensive looking blonde man said. "Captain Takihiro Namikaze, I apologize for my intrusion. But I was asked never to keep let him out of my sight. I take Co-captain Toma's challenge and will be the neutral party in this situation. By the end of the semester, if Akanishi Jinpei cannot produce results by the midterms, then please take his place as Captain and I will personally pull him out of the team and AGU and return him to America where he will study under his parents' watchful eye and take his rightful place. "
Toma looked at Jinpei who looked panicked. There might be a deeper reason for this man to be here. He had been classmates with Jinpei for a year, but he really didn't know anything about Jin. But the soccer prodigy seems to be in trouble and for the first time, he had the upper hand on things. He had worked for this and he felt that the captainship should be given to him who really paid his dues and not to some guy who just happens to be really good at soccer.
Plus,He really had no problems with his classes and could study more. Meanwhile, Jinpei had flunked all of his classes and was back in freshman year. This was going to be a cakewalk. He smirked.
"That sounds good," he nodded.
"Then, it's settled," he grinned. "Jinpei, this will be the first step to achieving your goal. If you can't be a captain of the Lightnings, then you should forget about going pro and return to America to your parents."
".... Tatsuya," Jinpei's face suddenly fell.
But the blonde remained firm. "If you want to play the game, then you better buck up, Jinpei."
The meeting continued with Tackey telling them about his plans for training while he was there. The Bolts suggested joint scrimmages with the younger team which Tackey agreed to. Toma was excited with the fact taht he was given the duty of being one of the main strategists and head of admin and training work. Subaru was the in charge of the psychic energy and counsellor. There will be joint practices with other teams as well before the season starts.
However that brings them to the big problem of finances. Tackey looked at their ledger and shook his head. "Mizushima, treasurer's report please..."
Hiro Mizushima straighened his vest and stood up while shuffled the papers he had been mulling over earlier while polishing his bread knife. It was part of a butler's duty manage the household budget and it was a gentleman's way to be honest so he had always taken care of the team's budget this way.
"I regret to say," Mizushima said sullenly. "That we will not be able to afford new uniforms this year."
A distinct buzzing of worry washed over the team. They have had the same uniforms for three years and these uniforms had seen better days. The Chancellor had promised them new duds after their win last year but apparently, the newly formed swim team had hijacked the budget because of their 4 olympic sized swimming pools which drastically cut their allotments.
"I had budgeted our trips to other schools, put in the amount needed for our supplies. But, even that, we have to cut back. We can only afford cheap powerade this year. No special orders. I can't even buy my butter and bread."
The shock resonated within the Power Plant. How will they be able to last all season with this?
"We need to raise funds," Tackey thought. "And fast... "
"But how?!" Uchi asked in panic that the team cannot supply his foundation this year.
"No wax?" Fujigaya panicked.
"Will we have money enough for toothpaste?" Hina asked in panic. "How about mouthwash?"
"We NEED to have DEODORANT!" Maru screamed from behind.
Somewhere in the room, a whimper was heard. What will they do now?
But just as the men were succumbing to despair, the door opened revealing a strange sparkle from beyond.
"Gentlemen," the coach entered carrying a black portfolio with gold embossed letters in front. "I believe I have the answer to your problems."
They all stared at the coach who seemed satisfied with himself. He had just come from a productive meeting with the chancellor who introduced him to their newest member. He had been worried about the fate of his team and their ailing budget ever since the chancellor had said that they were getting a budget cut because the newly established AGU Blue Stingrays, the swimming team who needed olympic sized pools to practice in.
He had thought of almost everything to help the boys from getting a loan to selling someof his personal things to finance the boys' needs. He knew that even though a few of them are well off, they cannot afford all their needs as a team without some sort of a miracle. He was dreading to meet the boys that day, he didn't want to announce that they would have to live with their vulcanized balls and old and ratting gear and torn uniforms for another semester. That would just bring their morale down after they had won last year's championship.
They needed this, he thought as he raised up the portfolio. "I found us someone who can help us with our finances. Actually, he was recommended by the Chancellor himself."
Tackey raised his eyebrows at that. The telltale gold lettering on the portfolio could only mean Him. "Why would he agree to help us?"
"Who are you talking about?" Toma piped up looking concerned that Tackey had such a negative reaction to a possible solution to their problem.
"The chancellor recommended the King," Tackey said pointing to the folder.
"Don't be too hasty to dismiss it," the Coach said putting down the report to let them peruse it. Tackey opened the folder and read with Toma peeking from beside him. A few moments later, the captain nodded.
"This looks good on paper," he said with a little bit more hope in his voice. "If this is true... Mizushima, come here."
"Yes, Captain," the tall treasurer came forth brandishing a big calculator from somewhere.
"Check this out," Tackey gave him the folder and summoned Toma and Subaru.
"The Coach may be on the dot this time," he said.
"Of course I am!" Gussan grinned. "It's a good deal and has the chancellors approval."
"If it's from Chancey, it's not like we have any choice," Toma nodded. "I agree, we're kinda desperate too... His offer is the only one we have right now."
The usually quiet Subaru nodded as well. "We cannot disobey the recommendations of the Chancellor. Our nighttime is over and from darkness comes a glittering light. He might be fated to ease the darkness within. We should accept his offer with grace -- after all, fates like these only happen once in a lifetime."
"Since the Old Wise man of the South has spoken," Tackey nodded. " I may have to agree. But first, Mizushima, are you done with the calculations?"
"Yes, Captain," the tall butler/treasurer nodded. "His offer has exceeded my expectations. Not only is it fair, but also sound. Plus, we can get more supplies than we have had last year and new uniforms too!"
"I think we're all in agreement that this may be for the best intentions of the team," Tackey said quietly so as not to announce it to the rest of the team who were looking at them curiously. The team looked demoralized, and he couldnt have that in his last semester.
"It is," the Coach nodded. "Plus wouldn't it be cool to have your last semester go off with a BANG! Your pictures will look amazing in new uniforms."
Tackey grinned. "Is taht all you think about coach?
"You are my prized Captain," Gussan smiled. "I just want the best before you leave. I am actually sad that you're going -- but it's the SAMURAIS. you can't pass up the opportunity."
"I know coach," he nodded.
Just then, the door opened distracting them from their quiet conversation. A strange sparkle was seen by the door.
"He's here," Tackey nodded and addressed the boys. "The solution to our problem has arrived. The latest addition to the lightnings has arrived, the coach has found us a business manager."
The boys all looked at each other. "Business Manager? Who?"
"Greetings, " Daigo said from the door with a smirk. "I apologize for the tardiness. There was urgent business to be solved."
"No problem, Hoshizuna-kun," the Coach nodded. "I got them briefed. "
"Thank you for coming to our help, Daigo-kun," Tackey extended his hand towards the so-called King of Aoyama.
"The pleasure is all mine, Captain Takihiro," the tall man grinned and shook the Captain's hand. "The Lightnings has always been the pride of this school, and I would like to extend my hand to help and be a part of this team, If you do allow me. "
Tackey nodded. "I don't see the problem in that, Daigo-kun. Welcome to the Lightnings."
"Captain, I object!," Junnosuke piped up from the back. Gone was the sunshiney smile from the Goalie's face, it seems that however bright Daigo was, the goalie's aura was dark in contrast.
".... Aniki..." Taiyou said in barely a whisper. He had never seen his silly older brother like that and it was scary. He remembered the same aura on San-kun, his father's aide and his father at times, but never on Junno. What was going on with him?
"Junno?" Toma's eyes widened at the Goalie who was now walking towards Daigo.
Tackey was taken aback by the actions of the usually placid goalie. "What's wrong Junnosuke?"
"Captain, I am saying this as a member but how do we know if we can believe in his word? What is in it for him?" Junno stood up not minding that some of the other teammates were cowering in fear beside him.
Daigo simply smirked at him. It seems that there was a beast residing in the clown.
"Do not worry, Junnosuke. I am not doing this to advance on your Princess. As lovely as she is, I don't usually mix business with pleasure. Plus, I could get her in my own way -- without this. However, you're right - I should lay my cards down so you can see, it's all in good faith." He looked the Goalie straight in the eye. "I was asked by the chancellor to lend a hand to his Champions since he is quite tied up at this moment."
Daigo looked around to see the broken equipment, old balls and torn uniforms around him. "And, I think I am desperately needed here. We cannot send you out to battle like this. What I can do is help you start an enterprise -- and of course, give some capital, but the rest is up to you guys. As for what I will gain from this union, well... sadly, I need some club credits before I get a good recommendation for honors, and so I decided on what's best for AGU. It's a win-win situation as you can see Junnosuke. "
Junnosuke didn't back down, but he didn't advance either. He nodded at the man's explanation but didn't end his glare. "I still don't trust you."
"You don't have to trust me," Daigo said. "This is just business after all. And if that's the only thing that is bothering you, then I will prove my goodwill to you by offering my first gift to the lightnings -- I'll provide your uniforms. I won't have the team I am in practice and battle in rags."
At that, a loud cheer was heard form the team. It seemed that this was the miracle they had been praying for. "LONG LIVE THE KING!"
... All of them, except one who kept brooding in the corner in disbelief.
---
""And so, we have new uniforms, Chii-chan!!" Yuuta was telling his girlfriend as they drove home that afternoon. "He was really quite something, Daigo-san. I mean, I thought he was a big snob but he really has his head in the right place. I guess he's just really mature, I mean we must have looked like children to him."
Chiaki listened to her boyfriend's girly babble with much amusement. Yuuta was really more of the girl in this relationship and she preferred it that way. He was even way prettier than she was - or so she thought. Yuuta was really just adorable. And she was, well.. rough and boyish the difference, her eldest sister said, was the one that made it work.
"Anyway, Chii-chan," Yuuta finally piped down enough to hold her hand at the stoplight."Are you going to be okay? I mean, with Tackey-senpai leaving and all..."
Chiaki nodded and smiled gently at her boyfriend's concern. "I think I'll be fine, Yuu-chan. After all, he's just following his dream. I mean, I would miss him but, at the same time, I am really happy he made it. Plus, I have you to help me through it, right?"
Yuuta didn't answer that, but he smiled and squeezed her hand tightly before he let go and drove as the light turned green. "... it's good to follow dreams, right?" He said with a small smile.
Yuuta was acting strange and in Chiaki's opinion, it wasn't boding well. She wondered what was wrong but didn't really voice it out. She quietly nodded at him and,prayed that it was nothing serious. After all, sshe trusts him.
The rest of the ride was spent on quiet contemplation. Yuuta indeed had a lot on his mind. He had a big decision to make that was about to change his life. He just got word from his father that his application for Johns Hopkins University Hospital was accepted and that he needed to transfer by the end of the semester to be able to be eligible for the new internship program. It was a dream he had wanted. It was their dream - him and Chiaki. But, his father never mentioned Chiaki so he had feared the worst.
In an ideal world, he would be accepted alongside Chiaki, they would fly out to the USA together and starting their lives as a couple and doctor team. But, somehow, things didn't work out quite the way he planned it. He had prayed that her application was just delayed, but even now, there was no mention of his girlfriend passing the examinations.
He knew he should tell her. SHe would be thrilled! But, it was all bad timing. He knew how Chiaki was with partings and she already had one to deal with. Her cousin, her beloved Daddy Tackey was leaving and he knew that she was sad to see him go even if she pretends that she was alright. Experience taught him how strong this girl tended to act even in the worst of situations, she hid her tears when their parents leave the airport everytime crying only when she thought no one could see her. But he did, Yuuta had watched her enough to know that she cried... and he had promised himself that he wouldn't want to cause any of the tears.
While he was thinking, Chiaki herself was concerned with the way Yuuta was acting. He was being odd lately -- quiet and thoughtful at times when he was supposed to be his normal cheery self. She knew from his eyes that something was wrong but it was something he would not tell her.
"Yuu-chan, what's wrong?" she finally asked as they rounded the street to the cul-de-sac where the duplex was located.
"Huh?" Yuuta feigned innocence. He knew he couldn't hide anything from his girl. "Nothing. I'm just a little sleepy. Morinaga-sensei packs more punch than a 1000mg sleeping pill."
Chiaki giggled at that. "True that. I had coffee just before her class but I can't seem to stay awake."
They shared a chuckle as they came to the end of the street.
"Oh look! Junno-chin is here!" Yuuta smiled, his usual cheerful mask back on.
"You're right," Chiaki nodded. "It's another party tonight. But who's driving the Red Lexus?"
Yuuta cocked his head at the familiar car. "That's Jinpei's car.What's he doing here?"
"Most likely getting tutored by Aya. Did you know that Daddy Tackey hired Aya to mother him this semester?" Chiaki shook her head.
"I heard about that. Jinpei kept on complaining on how unreasonable she and Tatsuya were being," Yuuta laughed.
"Tatsuya?" Chiaki had never heard the name, maybe it was chiaki's classmate or someone who was helping her. "Anyway, stay for dinner? I think Massu-nii's home so he wont mind if you stay. Plus, Junno-nii is here.. it will be fun!"
"Sure!" Yuuta grinned at his girlfriend.He might as well enjoy her company while it lasted.
"We're home!!" Chiaki yelled through the duplex as she entered the house.
But instead of an answer she was shocked with what she saw and heard.
"I told you, Junnocchi! I haven't even talked to him for more than five minutes! What are you talking about?" Nana Namikaze her eldest sister was in tears as she followed around her boyfriend, the usually cheerful Junnosuke Eguchi who was about to leave the house. "Let's talk about this, Junno. Please!"
"There's nothing to talk about, Nana," Junnosuke said dismissively as he gathered his Jacket and shrugged off Nana's arm. "If you want to be with that sparkly and pompous bastard, go ahead and leave me out of it. He likes you enough anyway to buy you."
"But Junno!! I don't even---"
Junnosuke shoved past Yuuta and Chiaki and looked back at his crying girlfriend with a hurt expression on his face. He opened his mouth as if to say something but clamped it shut and wordlessly walked out of the door. Nana was in hot pursuit, her tears flying in the air as she begged Junno to stay. But he didn't even look back as he revved the engine of his car and sped away leaving his girlfriend helplessly wailing unto the pavement.
Once out of earshot, Junno parked the car next to the curb. It took all his strength not to turn back to the Namikaze duplex and kiss his girlfriend silly and tell her it was all a lame joke. He had started the fight in the first place -- for no reason except that he wanted her to hate him.
He has been working on trying to get her to hate him for a few weeks already. From forgetting to pick her up to being downright mean to her, but to no avail. Nana had always forgiven him. He knew that breaking up with her will not be an easy thing.
Given a choice, he won't break up with her. He was in love with her and well, the heavy velvet box in his bag told him that if things go his way, he would be marrying the woman of his dreams. But there was a grim feeling in his heart that the dream was about to end. his five years of happiness with Nana is about to finish-- and he would have to live without her.
But he couldn't tell her. He couldn't break her heart. It would kill him to do that, like it was right now that he had made her cry.
He started the engine again as a single tear fell on his cheek. Right now, he needed a drink and he knew only one place where he can get it.
Chara Focus: Tackey, jin, junno and yuuta
Angst XD
The party the night before had halted the meeting that Tackey had planned. The random celebration of his ascension to the Samurais was not expected -- after all, it wasn't he who told everyone but one of the Bolts who cluelessly revealed his acceptance to the National Team. Perhaps it was fate telling him what a coward he was for not saying anything after recieving the news weeks before. It was not that he didnt want to say anything -- its just that he didnt know how to say it.He should really be thankful to Kouta for getting it out in the open.
But now, he realized that there is so much to be done. So much to prepare in the little time he has with his team and his family. He really should have said something earlier.
They were now in the Power Plant, actually, their locker room but it was a nickname that they lovingly bestowed upon the place as Lightnings. He was standing in front of everyone, and the few Bolts he had called to join them to resume the meeting that was supposed to happen yesterday.
"Thank you for coming," he smiled at everyone. "And thank you for the support you have given me as a captain all this time. The truth is, I should have told you earlier, but I really didn't have the heart to say anything until Kouta blurted it out. Which I am grateful for -- I may be a warrior in front of the ball but in all honesty when it comes to things like these I am a bloody coward. Regretfully, I have to leave you guys soon. So, let's make the most out of these days."
The usually rowdy lightnings were silent this time. Most were sad to see the captain go and some were wondering the same question which Toma had voiced out.
"So, Captain," he asked. "Have you made a decision? Who are you going to give the Monkey's mouthpiece to?"
The Monkey's mouthpiece is the megaphone which was passed on from generation to generation of captains since the time of Nagase Tomoya. the Legendary Monkey of Aoyama. It was a symbol of leadership among the lightnings.
Tackey looked at the very same megaphone which sat in the corner of the room. He sighed and walked over to it and picked it up. Then he wordlessly walked around the room looking at each member thoughtfully as if he was making a decision. He kind of looked like Peter Pan who was thinking of who to entrust the Lost Boys to-- and in a sense he was.
He had made a decision ages ago about his heir. But, then again he had questioned himself over and over about it. Was it right to bypass the co-captains, Subaru and Toma for this man? Is he really going to lead the Blue lightnings to victory? What if he couldn't? The man he chose after all had a fatal weakness, but he was sure of his talent. Plus, he knew and felt in his heart that this guy was born to lead the Lightnings.
He stepped in front of Jinpei Akanishi and held out the Monkey's Mouthpiece. "Will you take care of the boys?"
Jinpei was surprised. He knew that Tackey often called him the Future Captain of the Lightnings but at the same time, he never really took it that seriously. Because if there was someone deserving of the Megaphone, it was Toma who really lived and breathed the lightnings.
He looked over at Toma who was visibly shocked.
"Are you sure, Captain?" Jinpei asked. "I mean...."
"I know," Tackey looked over at Toma. "I thought about Toma too, but you have the spark, Jinpei. and if you work with Toma---"
"I will not accept this!" Toma protested. "I am more committed than he is!"
"Toma..."
"I won't accept him as captain unless he proves his commitment," Iruka Toma had put his foot down. "Sorry, Captain Tackey, but an irresponsible man like him cannot be the Captain of the Lightnings."
Toma had a point. A very good one in fact-- Jinpei Akanishi as talented a player as he was, had a fatal flaw. He was also dumb as a rock and was on Academic Probation this year. That was the main reason why he had employed his cousin Aya to tutor the boy -- since they knew that they needed Akanishi's skills if they wanted to bring down the Red Flames this year.
"He's still not an official member in my book," Toma continued. "No doubt, we need his strength for the team. He alone is a formidable ally, but according to the Chancellor's manual, We cannot let him join any games if he's on Academic Proby. He has to prove himself first before I concede. If he passes his midterms bringing him out of Academic Probation, I will accept him as my Captain. If he doesn't make it, I will challenge him. How can we have a Captain if he fails? It's a key position that will bring the morale of the team up or down so I can't leave it to a person who isn't reliable. Besides, if he cannot take care of his own grades, how can I trust him to take care of a whole team?"
A buzz was heard through the team as some started to whisper about the situation. Tackey noted the points which Toma raised and knew that they were valid points. Plus, he knew that Toma was right -- in order to lead the team, Jinpei must first prove his worth. If he surpasses this, then he could challenge everything. He nodded. He was about to say something when a smooth voice came from behind the locker room where an outsider sat silently.
"Then, how about this?" the tall and lean man sauntered towards the front where Jinpei Akanishi sat. "Let's make it into a challenge. Whoever has the higher grade in the midterms gets to be captain. Toma vs. Jinpei."
"And who would you be?" Tackey demanded. "Outsiders are not supposed to be in the locker room."
"Captain," Jinpei sighed and shook his head. "This is Tatsuya Uesagi, an old friend of mine..."
"And Jinpei's Older brother. I am here to keep this douchebag in line," the expensive looking blonde man said. "Captain Takihiro Namikaze, I apologize for my intrusion. But I was asked never to keep let him out of my sight. I take Co-captain Toma's challenge and will be the neutral party in this situation. By the end of the semester, if Akanishi Jinpei cannot produce results by the midterms, then please take his place as Captain and I will personally pull him out of the team and AGU and return him to America where he will study under his parents' watchful eye and take his rightful place. "
Toma looked at Jinpei who looked panicked. There might be a deeper reason for this man to be here. He had been classmates with Jinpei for a year, but he really didn't know anything about Jin. But the soccer prodigy seems to be in trouble and for the first time, he had the upper hand on things. He had worked for this and he felt that the captainship should be given to him who really paid his dues and not to some guy who just happens to be really good at soccer.
Plus,He really had no problems with his classes and could study more. Meanwhile, Jinpei had flunked all of his classes and was back in freshman year. This was going to be a cakewalk. He smirked.
"That sounds good," he nodded.
"Then, it's settled," he grinned. "Jinpei, this will be the first step to achieving your goal. If you can't be a captain of the Lightnings, then you should forget about going pro and return to America to your parents."
".... Tatsuya," Jinpei's face suddenly fell.
But the blonde remained firm. "If you want to play the game, then you better buck up, Jinpei."
The meeting continued with Tackey telling them about his plans for training while he was there. The Bolts suggested joint scrimmages with the younger team which Tackey agreed to. Toma was excited with the fact taht he was given the duty of being one of the main strategists and head of admin and training work. Subaru was the in charge of the psychic energy and counsellor. There will be joint practices with other teams as well before the season starts.
However that brings them to the big problem of finances. Tackey looked at their ledger and shook his head. "Mizushima, treasurer's report please..."
Hiro Mizushima straighened his vest and stood up while shuffled the papers he had been mulling over earlier while polishing his bread knife. It was part of a butler's duty manage the household budget and it was a gentleman's way to be honest so he had always taken care of the team's budget this way.
"I regret to say," Mizushima said sullenly. "That we will not be able to afford new uniforms this year."
A distinct buzzing of worry washed over the team. They have had the same uniforms for three years and these uniforms had seen better days. The Chancellor had promised them new duds after their win last year but apparently, the newly formed swim team had hijacked the budget because of their 4 olympic sized swimming pools which drastically cut their allotments.
"I had budgeted our trips to other schools, put in the amount needed for our supplies. But, even that, we have to cut back. We can only afford cheap powerade this year. No special orders. I can't even buy my butter and bread."
The shock resonated within the Power Plant. How will they be able to last all season with this?
"We need to raise funds," Tackey thought. "And fast... "
"But how?!" Uchi asked in panic that the team cannot supply his foundation this year.
"No wax?" Fujigaya panicked.
"Will we have money enough for toothpaste?" Hina asked in panic. "How about mouthwash?"
"We NEED to have DEODORANT!" Maru screamed from behind.
Somewhere in the room, a whimper was heard. What will they do now?
But just as the men were succumbing to despair, the door opened revealing a strange sparkle from beyond.
"Gentlemen," the coach entered carrying a black portfolio with gold embossed letters in front. "I believe I have the answer to your problems."
They all stared at the coach who seemed satisfied with himself. He had just come from a productive meeting with the chancellor who introduced him to their newest member. He had been worried about the fate of his team and their ailing budget ever since the chancellor had said that they were getting a budget cut because the newly established AGU Blue Stingrays, the swimming team who needed olympic sized pools to practice in.
He had thought of almost everything to help the boys from getting a loan to selling someof his personal things to finance the boys' needs. He knew that even though a few of them are well off, they cannot afford all their needs as a team without some sort of a miracle. He was dreading to meet the boys that day, he didn't want to announce that they would have to live with their vulcanized balls and old and ratting gear and torn uniforms for another semester. That would just bring their morale down after they had won last year's championship.
They needed this, he thought as he raised up the portfolio. "I found us someone who can help us with our finances. Actually, he was recommended by the Chancellor himself."
Tackey raised his eyebrows at that. The telltale gold lettering on the portfolio could only mean Him. "Why would he agree to help us?"
"Who are you talking about?" Toma piped up looking concerned that Tackey had such a negative reaction to a possible solution to their problem.
"The chancellor recommended the King," Tackey said pointing to the folder.
"Don't be too hasty to dismiss it," the Coach said putting down the report to let them peruse it. Tackey opened the folder and read with Toma peeking from beside him. A few moments later, the captain nodded.
"This looks good on paper," he said with a little bit more hope in his voice. "If this is true... Mizushima, come here."
"Yes, Captain," the tall treasurer came forth brandishing a big calculator from somewhere.
"Check this out," Tackey gave him the folder and summoned Toma and Subaru.
"The Coach may be on the dot this time," he said.
"Of course I am!" Gussan grinned. "It's a good deal and has the chancellors approval."
"If it's from Chancey, it's not like we have any choice," Toma nodded. "I agree, we're kinda desperate too... His offer is the only one we have right now."
The usually quiet Subaru nodded as well. "We cannot disobey the recommendations of the Chancellor. Our nighttime is over and from darkness comes a glittering light. He might be fated to ease the darkness within. We should accept his offer with grace -- after all, fates like these only happen once in a lifetime."
"Since the Old Wise man of the South has spoken," Tackey nodded. " I may have to agree. But first, Mizushima, are you done with the calculations?"
"Yes, Captain," the tall butler/treasurer nodded. "His offer has exceeded my expectations. Not only is it fair, but also sound. Plus, we can get more supplies than we have had last year and new uniforms too!"
"I think we're all in agreement that this may be for the best intentions of the team," Tackey said quietly so as not to announce it to the rest of the team who were looking at them curiously. The team looked demoralized, and he couldnt have that in his last semester.
"It is," the Coach nodded. "Plus wouldn't it be cool to have your last semester go off with a BANG! Your pictures will look amazing in new uniforms."
Tackey grinned. "Is taht all you think about coach?
"You are my prized Captain," Gussan smiled. "I just want the best before you leave. I am actually sad that you're going -- but it's the SAMURAIS. you can't pass up the opportunity."
"I know coach," he nodded.
Just then, the door opened distracting them from their quiet conversation. A strange sparkle was seen by the door.
"He's here," Tackey nodded and addressed the boys. "The solution to our problem has arrived. The latest addition to the lightnings has arrived, the coach has found us a business manager."
The boys all looked at each other. "Business Manager? Who?"
"Greetings, " Daigo said from the door with a smirk. "I apologize for the tardiness. There was urgent business to be solved."
"No problem, Hoshizuna-kun," the Coach nodded. "I got them briefed. "
"Thank you for coming to our help, Daigo-kun," Tackey extended his hand towards the so-called King of Aoyama.
"The pleasure is all mine, Captain Takihiro," the tall man grinned and shook the Captain's hand. "The Lightnings has always been the pride of this school, and I would like to extend my hand to help and be a part of this team, If you do allow me. "
Tackey nodded. "I don't see the problem in that, Daigo-kun. Welcome to the Lightnings."
"Captain, I object!," Junnosuke piped up from the back. Gone was the sunshiney smile from the Goalie's face, it seems that however bright Daigo was, the goalie's aura was dark in contrast.
".... Aniki..." Taiyou said in barely a whisper. He had never seen his silly older brother like that and it was scary. He remembered the same aura on San-kun, his father's aide and his father at times, but never on Junno. What was going on with him?
"Junno?" Toma's eyes widened at the Goalie who was now walking towards Daigo.
Tackey was taken aback by the actions of the usually placid goalie. "What's wrong Junnosuke?"
"Captain, I am saying this as a member but how do we know if we can believe in his word? What is in it for him?" Junno stood up not minding that some of the other teammates were cowering in fear beside him.
Daigo simply smirked at him. It seems that there was a beast residing in the clown.
"Do not worry, Junnosuke. I am not doing this to advance on your Princess. As lovely as she is, I don't usually mix business with pleasure. Plus, I could get her in my own way -- without this. However, you're right - I should lay my cards down so you can see, it's all in good faith." He looked the Goalie straight in the eye. "I was asked by the chancellor to lend a hand to his Champions since he is quite tied up at this moment."
Daigo looked around to see the broken equipment, old balls and torn uniforms around him. "And, I think I am desperately needed here. We cannot send you out to battle like this. What I can do is help you start an enterprise -- and of course, give some capital, but the rest is up to you guys. As for what I will gain from this union, well... sadly, I need some club credits before I get a good recommendation for honors, and so I decided on what's best for AGU. It's a win-win situation as you can see Junnosuke. "
Junnosuke didn't back down, but he didn't advance either. He nodded at the man's explanation but didn't end his glare. "I still don't trust you."
"You don't have to trust me," Daigo said. "This is just business after all. And if that's the only thing that is bothering you, then I will prove my goodwill to you by offering my first gift to the lightnings -- I'll provide your uniforms. I won't have the team I am in practice and battle in rags."
At that, a loud cheer was heard form the team. It seemed that this was the miracle they had been praying for. "LONG LIVE THE KING!"
... All of them, except one who kept brooding in the corner in disbelief.
---
""And so, we have new uniforms, Chii-chan!!" Yuuta was telling his girlfriend as they drove home that afternoon. "He was really quite something, Daigo-san. I mean, I thought he was a big snob but he really has his head in the right place. I guess he's just really mature, I mean we must have looked like children to him."
Chiaki listened to her boyfriend's girly babble with much amusement. Yuuta was really more of the girl in this relationship and she preferred it that way. He was even way prettier than she was - or so she thought. Yuuta was really just adorable. And she was, well.. rough and boyish the difference, her eldest sister said, was the one that made it work.
"Anyway, Chii-chan," Yuuta finally piped down enough to hold her hand at the stoplight."Are you going to be okay? I mean, with Tackey-senpai leaving and all..."
Chiaki nodded and smiled gently at her boyfriend's concern. "I think I'll be fine, Yuu-chan. After all, he's just following his dream. I mean, I would miss him but, at the same time, I am really happy he made it. Plus, I have you to help me through it, right?"
Yuuta didn't answer that, but he smiled and squeezed her hand tightly before he let go and drove as the light turned green. "... it's good to follow dreams, right?" He said with a small smile.
Yuuta was acting strange and in Chiaki's opinion, it wasn't boding well. She wondered what was wrong but didn't really voice it out. She quietly nodded at him and,prayed that it was nothing serious. After all, sshe trusts him.
The rest of the ride was spent on quiet contemplation. Yuuta indeed had a lot on his mind. He had a big decision to make that was about to change his life. He just got word from his father that his application for Johns Hopkins University Hospital was accepted and that he needed to transfer by the end of the semester to be able to be eligible for the new internship program. It was a dream he had wanted. It was their dream - him and Chiaki. But, his father never mentioned Chiaki so he had feared the worst.
In an ideal world, he would be accepted alongside Chiaki, they would fly out to the USA together and starting their lives as a couple and doctor team. But, somehow, things didn't work out quite the way he planned it. He had prayed that her application was just delayed, but even now, there was no mention of his girlfriend passing the examinations.
He knew he should tell her. SHe would be thrilled! But, it was all bad timing. He knew how Chiaki was with partings and she already had one to deal with. Her cousin, her beloved Daddy Tackey was leaving and he knew that she was sad to see him go even if she pretends that she was alright. Experience taught him how strong this girl tended to act even in the worst of situations, she hid her tears when their parents leave the airport everytime crying only when she thought no one could see her. But he did, Yuuta had watched her enough to know that she cried... and he had promised himself that he wouldn't want to cause any of the tears.
While he was thinking, Chiaki herself was concerned with the way Yuuta was acting. He was being odd lately -- quiet and thoughtful at times when he was supposed to be his normal cheery self. She knew from his eyes that something was wrong but it was something he would not tell her.
"Yuu-chan, what's wrong?" she finally asked as they rounded the street to the cul-de-sac where the duplex was located.
"Huh?" Yuuta feigned innocence. He knew he couldn't hide anything from his girl. "Nothing. I'm just a little sleepy. Morinaga-sensei packs more punch than a 1000mg sleeping pill."
Chiaki giggled at that. "True that. I had coffee just before her class but I can't seem to stay awake."
They shared a chuckle as they came to the end of the street.
"Oh look! Junno-chin is here!" Yuuta smiled, his usual cheerful mask back on.
"You're right," Chiaki nodded. "It's another party tonight. But who's driving the Red Lexus?"
Yuuta cocked his head at the familiar car. "That's Jinpei's car.What's he doing here?"
"Most likely getting tutored by Aya. Did you know that Daddy Tackey hired Aya to mother him this semester?" Chiaki shook her head.
"I heard about that. Jinpei kept on complaining on how unreasonable she and Tatsuya were being," Yuuta laughed.
"Tatsuya?" Chiaki had never heard the name, maybe it was chiaki's classmate or someone who was helping her. "Anyway, stay for dinner? I think Massu-nii's home so he wont mind if you stay. Plus, Junno-nii is here.. it will be fun!"
"Sure!" Yuuta grinned at his girlfriend.He might as well enjoy her company while it lasted.
"We're home!!" Chiaki yelled through the duplex as she entered the house.
But instead of an answer she was shocked with what she saw and heard.
"I told you, Junnocchi! I haven't even talked to him for more than five minutes! What are you talking about?" Nana Namikaze her eldest sister was in tears as she followed around her boyfriend, the usually cheerful Junnosuke Eguchi who was about to leave the house. "Let's talk about this, Junno. Please!"
"There's nothing to talk about, Nana," Junnosuke said dismissively as he gathered his Jacket and shrugged off Nana's arm. "If you want to be with that sparkly and pompous bastard, go ahead and leave me out of it. He likes you enough anyway to buy you."
"But Junno!! I don't even---"
Junnosuke shoved past Yuuta and Chiaki and looked back at his crying girlfriend with a hurt expression on his face. He opened his mouth as if to say something but clamped it shut and wordlessly walked out of the door. Nana was in hot pursuit, her tears flying in the air as she begged Junno to stay. But he didn't even look back as he revved the engine of his car and sped away leaving his girlfriend helplessly wailing unto the pavement.
Once out of earshot, Junno parked the car next to the curb. It took all his strength not to turn back to the Namikaze duplex and kiss his girlfriend silly and tell her it was all a lame joke. He had started the fight in the first place -- for no reason except that he wanted her to hate him.
He has been working on trying to get her to hate him for a few weeks already. From forgetting to pick her up to being downright mean to her, but to no avail. Nana had always forgiven him. He knew that breaking up with her will not be an easy thing.
Given a choice, he won't break up with her. He was in love with her and well, the heavy velvet box in his bag told him that if things go his way, he would be marrying the woman of his dreams. But there was a grim feeling in his heart that the dream was about to end. his five years of happiness with Nana is about to finish-- and he would have to live without her.
But he couldn't tell her. He couldn't break her heart. It would kill him to do that, like it was right now that he had made her cry.
He started the engine again as a single tear fell on his cheek. Right now, he needed a drink and he knew only one place where he can get it.