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Title: Double Fault (a "Prince of Tennis" fanfic)
Warnings: Mature themes.
Author: (: attackfish, LJ: bowlofkaki)
Disclaimer: Prince of Tennis does not belong to me. I am not making any money off of this. No copyright infringement is intended.
Summary:Yukimura, in spite of his illness, takes his place on the courts to show Echizen his tennis- and his will to win. However, the opposing team will not give in so easily! The Seigaku Tennis Team regulars want to win, and more importantly, they want to support Echizen. Which team will triumph?
(Echizen PoV)
This is driving me crazy, waiting for the door to open second after second. It's ten times more frustrating waiting for the doctor to come and tell me if I can go. Not "when," just "if."
My dad is in the visitor's chair, arms crossed. He's waiting, just like me. I glare at him, wishing he'd just go away. But even while thinking that, I know I'm really only angry with Dr. Kobayashi, not my dad. But him sitting there doing nothing bothers me for some reason. It's hard enough waiting by myself. It would be easier if he'd go outside or something, but he won't go, no matter how much I stare at him.
This room is suffocating- there's only room for one person to sit at a time, so I'm stuck sitting on the bed. I want to be anywhere but here- I'm even dressed to leave. All I'm waiting for is my doctor to give the okay.
I let my breath out slowly, wondering why Dr. Kobayashi didn't just tell me last night. I even made one of the nurses bring him up, but when I asked, he said it would depend on this morning's lab work. I know I've been feeling pretty bad for the past few days, but I need to go to this tennis match.
I haven't been able to do anything with the team for a month, haven't been able to play for a month.
Day after day I'm stuck in the hospital feeling just as bad as I did- maybe even worse- than I ever did before coming here. It's hard to see the point of any "treatment" that keeps me from doing the things I love.
Even though Seigaku Tennis Team may continue on without me, I'm still a part of the team.
I look at the door for what feels like the thousandth time today, hoping it will open. This is stupid. I should be looking anywhere but the door, but I just can't look away. I want to slide off the bed and go find Dr. Kobayashi and make him let me go.
Dr. Kobayashi may be my doctor, but sometimes I think he forgets that. He hardly ever comes around here except in the mornings, and on some procedures. I know doctors are busy, but couldn't he come around here more often- if he'd just come this one time I'll forget about it.
I mean, who cares if I don't see Dr. Kobayashi? He's not going to let me out for at least another week- and he might try to keep me longer if I'm not feeling any better.
I shake my head. I don't want to think about how much longer I'll be stuck here. I want to go to the Seigaku-Rikkai tennis match today. I look to my dad in the chair. "What time is it?" I look right into his eyes.
My dad looks at me, coolly watching me even as I stare him down. "Three minutes since you last asked; 10:27." He looks at me sternly, looking calmer than he has any right to be right now. My dad has just been sitting there patiently since early this morning. Why isn't he pacing, or complaining about the doctor being late?
I sigh, and clench my fingers around my comforter. I'm already late; everyone was supposed to meet at 10:00. Even though I'm hardly ever on time for these school things, I can usually get there by now. Everyone probably thinks I'm not coming or that I don't want to come.
I wonder what they're doing right now. Are they on the bleachers cheering? Did they notice that I'm not there- do they even care? By now, they must have started the first doubles game. I wonder what the lineup is. I bend down to retie my shoelaces, trying to ignore the heavy feeling in my stomach.
I wish there was a clock in here, if only to give me something to look at. Instead, I stare out the window, waiting impatiently for Dr. Kobayashi.
Finally, the door opens, and I breathe a sigh of relief. "You're late, Dr. Kobayashi." I glower at the man at the door, and tug my hat down. "So? Can I go?"
Dr. Kobayashi is business-like and quick as always, rushing here and there to see all of his patients. He smiles a little as he makes his way to my bed. "Good morning, Ryoma. How are you feeling today?" He takes my chart off the end of the bed and flips through the pages. He acts like he didn't hear my question.
I grit my teeth, looking at Dr. Kobayashi suspiciously. "I'm fine." I answer, guarded. I don't like how things are going so far. The doctors are always ignoring my questions, but I get the feeling he's avoiding the subject, rather than just ignoring me. "Can I go now?"
Dr. Kobayashi sucks in air through his teeth, while he looks over the chart. He does it several more times before commenting. "Seems you haven't had a particularly bad reaction to your medicine…" The doctor ignores my scoff- I'd hardly say it wasn't 'particularly bad.' "Do you have any nausea?" He finally looks up, giving me an appraising look.
I lean on one knee, and sigh impatiently. I really hate this routine. "It's not so bad. They haven't given me anything this morning, so I feel okay." I lean backwards, and shrug, trying to show him I'm okay.
Dr. Kobayashi nods, and jots something down. He flips through the pages once more, and then goes back to the front page, pen poised. "When was the last time your bowels moved?"
Bowel movement? Isn't that the doctor way of asking-? I blink at the doctor, wondering why they need to ask these kinds of things. Why don't doctors ever ask any normal questions- like 'where are you going today?' "Er, last night."
Dr. Kobayashi nods, and scratches a few notes down. He shuffles the papers together, realigning them into a neat stack. "Well, Ryoma, we're at a bit of a standstill here." The doctor sets the papers against his side. "Your ANC(1) isn't too bad, but your white blood cell count is still a little low…I don't know that I'd recommend going out for the time being. With so few white blood cells, it would be too easy for you to catch something. We don't want you getting sick- it's too easy for a cold to turn into pneumonia."
"What?" I don't believe this. He's not telling me I can't go, no way. "I'm not going to catch anything- I'll sit by myself. I just want to go." I want him to look up, want him to meet my gaze. "You told me I could go."
"That was before your white blood count started to drop," Dr. Kobayashi points out, and I know it's true. He told me that more than a week ago, when things were going well- or at least not going badly. But I know Dr. Kobayashi is right. Things change quickly.
"Doesn't that mean the medicine is working?" I hate the pleading sound of my voice.
"Doctor," my dad cuts us off. He puts his hands on his knees, looking stern. "I think it would be good for Ryoma to get out." Dr. Kobayashi looks at my dad in surprise, but doesn't say anything. My dad continues, "He needs to be with his team- with his friends- right now. Just for a few hours. Please."
I stare, surprised as my father bows his head. For a moment, no one says anything. The silence is suffocating.
"I see." Dr. Kobayashi watches my dad, contemplating something. I hold my breath. "I'd prefer you stay here, but," Dr. Kobayashi pauses, and licks his lips before continuing, "I suppose you can go out for a few hours." He smiles at me, and pats my arm.
"Great!" My dad grins, and stands up to shake the doctor's hand. "Thank you, doctor," he pumps his hand enthusiastically and then gives a little bow. Jeeze. At times like this, it's easy to remember my dad lived in America for so long...
Dr. Kobayashi nods to my father, and then looks at me. "But you aren't there to play, Ryoma." He looks at me sternly. "You should stay away from the crowds, and wear a mask at all times." Dr. Kobayashi puts my chart back on the end of the bed, and straightens his jacket. "And understand that I don't want you out for more than a few hours; as soon as the game is over, come straight back to the hospital."
"Yes, yes." I roll my eyes. "I hear you. I'll be right back."
"This is very important, Ryoma. You must wear a mask, and stay away from crowds." Dr. Kobayashi takes another step towards the door, but he's still facing me. "Also, keep your hat and jersey on, to limit your sun exposure. I'll have the nurse bring you some sunscreen." He puts a hand on the doorknob, and smiles at me. "Have a nice trip, Ryoma."
I smile to myself. It's almost too good...but it's true. I really am going, really am leaving the hospital.
I can't wait!
(Echizen PoV)
"They're having a really big tournament there today- the Kanto Regional Finals!" The taxi driver says loudly, his eyes flitting from the road to the rear-view mirror, and then back on the road. He's been chattering since we left the hospital, going on and on about this or that.
I pull at the mask on my face, trying to tug it into a more comfortable spot. My breath feels too warm, the mask's string is too tight, but I have to keep the stupid thing on. I give up with a sigh, and watch the buildings as we speed by. I can't keep my eyes away from the window; it's good to see something besides the same old hospital scenery. I'd stare at a bunch of brick walls, that's how much I want to see something new- anything, so long as it doesn't look like the same stuff I see from the hospital.
"Must be nice to be out on a day like this," he says softly.
I look at him, and for the first time, he doesn't look away. I smirk at the driver, and surprisingly, he smiles back at me. But I guess he can't see my expression with the mask on…I stare at him, trying to figure out what he expects from me. I look away, irritated. Of all the taxi drivers who never say a word, why'd we have to get the odd ball out? I just want to be there already, and skip the getting there part.
The taxi stalls at a light, and the driver looks uneasily at the ticking meter. I wait impatiently for the light to change, clenching my hands into fists. What's he all worked up about? I attempt a glare, but give it up. We'll get there soon enough.
The sunlight bounces off a building front, making me squint. The scenery blurs together as we start moving again, and I familiar buildings come into view. It won't be long now. Tokyo's crowded streets rush by, people bustling to and from building to building. Life just keeps on going, on and on…
"So," the taxi driver says, and clears his throat. "Nice weather we're having, isn't it?" He looks to my father and me for reply, but I just keep staring out the window. I don't have anything to say to this guy.
We finally pull up to the grounds, just in front of the main entrance. The taxi stalls enough for me to get out, and I don't wait a second to escape. I don't stop to see if my dad follows- I just want to get to the stands and see whatever's left of the first (or second, by now…) game.
There are only a few people lining the entryway-most people are on the courts by now. I walk over to the match-up board, scanning the list to see which court Seigaku is on. There aren't many teams listed- only a few are competing or a chance to play in the National Tournament.
I turn around, ready to head from the court, but there's someone standing right behind me. I shrug my way away from them, not stopping to look at their face.
"Oh, sorry," the guy says, but then stops. He turns to a girl next to him, and then stares after me. "Isn't that Seigaku's first-year regular?" He whispers the comment, but I can still hear it.
I can feel his eyes follow me, and feel the other students watching me, too. I shove my hands in my pockets, and don't look back. I should have expected something like this, but all I've been thinking about is the tennis. I wish everyone would just stop staring and get on with things.
"Hey kid, what's wrong with you? Taking off on your own like that." My dad puts a hand on my shoulder and looks me in the eye. His expression is serious, worried.
I stare back at him, an uncomfortable feeling pulling my stomach. I pull away. "Leave me alone. I don't need a baby-sitter," I snap. I don't want to be near him—near anyone—right now. Not if everyone's going to treat me like a freak. I walk past all the whispering—staring—people. Curious or pitying, I don't want to hear any of it, but I can't close my ears:
"That's the Seigaku regular?"
"He's playing today, is he?"
"I heard they've got another player."
"What's wrong with him?"
"Be quite! He's walking this way."
I try to tell myself that there really aren't that many people talking about me. Most of them just follow me with their eyes, staring silently. Is it pity that keeps them quiet, or stupidity? I grit my teeth; they don't understand a thing.
I walk past all the stragglers, and approach from the back entrance of the court where no one can see me. The scoreboard isn't looking too good-Rikkai 5, Seigaku 2. I look the court, and see Momo dashing to hit a ball. He and Kaido are drenched in sweat, and look like they're going to collapse any minute. The Rikkai players look similarly exhausted, but somehow they're still playing in great form. I see it just has Momo does-he's out of position, and can't compensate for the taller player's next move. I watch Momo jerk to the side, watching the ball soar only feet away from him. The ball doesn't bounce there, though-Kaido's in the perfect position to slam the ball across the court.
The players on the other side are already in position, however, and the shorter player leaps into the air to hit the ball behind both Momo and Kaido.
"40-15!" the referee calls, and I bite my lip.
Kaido blows air through his teeth, and bends down to tug at his laces. Buying time?
On the stands behind them, everyone is silent. Their faces are taught, hands tense and clenched. Kikumaru leans forward and yells, "Keep on trying!" but even he sounds desperate. Seigaku is struggling, and it doesn't look like we can recover. I swallow, feeling more like a part of the team than I had moments before. Just with that one point, I can feel the tension of this match. Kaido and Momo want to win, but they can't. Their expressions say that much.
Kaido looks defiant, Momo frustrated, but he smiles at his partner. They push each other on in times like this. Momo takes his position in the serving box, and bounces the ball on the hard ground. After a few tosses, he throws it into the air, and slams the ball across the court.
The bald player runs the ball down, and returns Momo's serve with a powerful slice. They volley the ball back and forth for several long minutes, but the Rikkai pair has an edge. Both teams are exhausted beyond their limits, but Rikkai is ahead, and it gives them the confidence they need to make the point.
The air erupts into applause and yells, even as Kaido falls just behind the yellow ball. Kaido grits his teeth, but pulls himself off the ground. He stands stoically while Momo approaches the net, glaring. Kaido goes to meet the other players, where they shake hands and take their separate ways.
As I start down the stairs, I feel dozens of eyes turn to me, silent, but watching. I don't look at the spectators on the bleachers, keeping my eyes on the court in front of me.
It doesn't take long for my teammates to see me. Kikumaru vaults off the cement barrier, and trots a few steps to meet me. "You're late, kiddo!" He says, but he's grinning. "I thought you weren't coming!" He swings his arm around my shoulder, jostling me.
"Kikumaru," I say through gritted teeth, "don't shake me so hard!" I glare, but the mask dampens the effect. Figures.
"This way," Kikumaru shouts enthusiastically, pulling me by the hand down the stairs, two at a time. Soon we're at the base of the stairs where all the regulars stay.
"No thanks," I jerk my hand away. "I'll sit up there." I look up the stairs the way we came, eying the steps. I roll my eyes at Kikumaru, trying to figure out why he had to drag me all the way down here, a ways from where I actually want to sit.
"Up there?" Kikumaru sounds aghast. He tilts his head, following my gaze, and frowns in confusion. "But no one's up there!"
Kaido looks at Kikumaru, face red and arms sweaty from the match that ended only moments before. "Let him sit where he wants," he gruffs. Kaido's eyes flick towards me for a moment, and he gives me an almost-smile, and a clipped nod.
I nod back at him.
"Ah," says Oishi, coming out of a stretch to stand by me. He's holding his racquet, looking ready to start the game. He doesn't talk about the game, though. "Won't it be difficult to see? And what if you have to leave? It'd be easier if you sat closer…" his words run together, but I understand him all right. He defiantly can think of a lot of problems in a few seconds.
Momo walks over to base of the stairs, and the others are close behind. Everyone's standing within a few feet of me; Momo and Kikumaru are actually brushing my shoulders. I meet Momo's eyes, wondering what he'll say. "Good to see you," he says. He's more relaxed than he has been in ages- maybe because we're on a tennis court. "You completely missed our game, though." He grins toothily.
"I saw the last part. You guys were really fighting-those guys had to work for that win." I shrug, and turn back to the stairs. Everybody's so eager to stand right next to me, but after days in a private hospital room, it just feels weird to have people hanging all over me. Unfortunately, I don't get very far.
"Echizen!" Ryuzaki hollers. Apparently she won't let me get away without talking to her first. I try not to sigh as she approaches, hands on her hips. "Why aren't you dressed out?" She looks at me sternly, but her eyes are twinkling. "Put this on." She tosses me the familiar blue and white jersey without batting an eye.
"Yes, ma'am." I smirk. Strange old woman.
"Oh, and one more thing," she adds, still smiling peculiarly. "Take the bench."
"Ha?" I blink at her, my bossy teacher-coach standing in front of my team. "The bench?" I look from regular to regular, looking for some hint of what she means.
"Bench coach, stupid." Momo raps my hat, grinning despite himself. He points to the side, directing my gaze, "she wants you to be the bench coach."
"That would be best." Inui nods to himself, pushing his glasses up his nose. I can't tell if he's talking to himself, or me. "There are fewer people on the court; it's more…sterile."
Ha. Like anyplace outside of a surgeon's room is really sterile. The bench is less likely to be covered in student germs, he means.
I just nod. Inui is strange, but surprising. Most people don't think about that sort of thing. I wonder how much data he's gather about-I stop myself in the middle of the thought. I don't want to finish the thought. Instead, I just head over to the bench, and sit down.
"You guys try your best," I flick my eyes upwards, at the sky, rather than look to my teammates.
Coach Ryuzaki laughs, and claps Oishi on the back. "That's the spirit, Echizen! You'll do just fine." She's clearly amused.
Hmph. Not like she ever does more than utter a few encouraging words…or bark at Momo and Kaido to behave. At least those guys have already played…
"You lot could stand a better attitude as well! Show some Seigaku spirit!" she orders, and settles herself on the bleachers. The others are slow to follow suit, hovering around me, instead.
"Before we start," Inui places a heavy hand on my shoulder and puts a tall glass in front of me, "drink this." The glass is frosted, dripping with perspiration, but it doesn't disguise the drink inside. It's green.
I take a tiny step back, before I even realize what I'm doing. I don't want that stuff anywhere near me.
"Wah" Kikumaru waves his hands around empathetically. "Stop, stop!" He shakes his head, and frowns at Inui. "We won't let you give little Echizen any of your vile drinks, Inui!" He wags a finger in front of Inui, scolding. "Are you trying to poison him?"
"It's perfectly harmless," Inui deadpans, while Kikumaru crowds him, getting between me and Inui.
We all look on, Oishi stepping closer to me, and everyone else backing away from Inui. "Hm, I don't think you should drink it," Oishi tells me, none too subtly. He gives me a knowing look, and frowns grimly. "Who knows what's in it."
I look at the green stuff suspiciously, frowning. I do not want to try one of his little experiments, not after all the other strange things he's had us try. I think I'll just go sit down.
"It's a health drink," Inui is saying, trying not to spill the drink as he's pushed farther back by Kikumaru. "A milkshake." His back is against the cement barrier, now, and he has nowhere else to go.
"It's green!" Kikumaru yells, his voice breaking. Behind him, Momo snickers.
"Of course it's green; it's matcha," green tea, the kind used in tea ceremony. I blink, the words still processing. Green tea? "A matcha milkshake. You should drink it, Echizen." At last, Inui sidesteps Kikumaru, holding the glass in front of him again.
"Eh? It's a milkshake?" Momo blinks rapidly, mouth hanging open. He looks from Inui to me, and then to Fuji. "It can't be! No way." He shakes his head empathetically.
"Hmm," Fuji approaches Inui. "Let me see," and he takes the tall glass from Inui's hands. He cautiously smells the creamy liquid, and then smiles. "It's all right, Echizen. It smells like matcha, nothing spicy." He takes a few steps towards me, and offers the glass. "Taste it."
I look at the green liquid warily, but at last I reach for the glass. I give it a good sniff-it smells sweet and has an herbal smell. I guess that's the green tea. "Is it really just a green tea milkshake?" I ask suspiciously. "Nothing else?"
Inui sighs, and gives me a look "It's half whole milk, half cream, sugar, and a dash of powdered milk. And matcha, of course. I would have put whipped cream on it, but I thought it might melt before you got here…"
I shrug, and pull my mask down a little. I take a small sip. And then another. "'s good." I proclaim, and let the cold drink slide down my throat.
It certainly tastes better than the food they've been trying to give me at the hospital. That tasteless stuff just irritates the sores in my mouth and throat. The inside of my mouth is covered in sores, which makes eating more of a chore than anything-especially since I can barely keep anything down.
"Great job, Inui!" Kawamura grins. "You should make some for the team."
"Yeah, I'd rather drink a green tea milkshake than Penalty Tea any day!" Kikumaru says matter-of-factly. He peers at the drink, and nods. "It actually looks drinkable- maybe even healthy!"
"All right, everyone!" Oishi shouts, clapping his hands together to get our attention. "Let's not forget we came here to play today. Seigaku!" He hollers, and we all respond with a bellowing,
"Fight-o!" The cheers coming from our side of the court are deafening. Five fists go into the air, as our coach-and I-look on. The team looks enthused, that's for sure.
I smirk behind my mask. Rikkaidai is going to have to work hard to keep up with us.
Bench coach, as I guessed, won't really be that hard- or interesting- until the doubles pair takes the court. Unfortunately, they're still on the sidelines. While I watch them stretch, Yukimura stands directly in front of me. I frown, and look at him questioningly. What's he standing in front of me for? I'm not the one playing today, after all.
Yukimura doesn't smile, but his eyes look amused. Kind of like Fuji, really. "It looks like all the members have arrived," Yukimura says blandly, looking me square in the eyes. "I'm glad you showed up, Echizen." He offers a cool smile, and then looks to Oishi. "Let's have a good game." And with that, he turns back to his own teammates waiting on the other side of the courts.
I snort. This guy doesn't know when to give up; it's not me who needs challenging- it's the doubles pair right behind him. But Yukimura doesn't look at them, or even at his doubles pair on his side of the court.
Across the court, the Rikkai doubles pair watches their captain, passive, maybe even bored. The next two players are stretching on the sidelines, their movements in synch. On our side, Oishi and Kikumaru are also stretching, their eyes fixed on their opponents.
I smile. These guys are getting into it.
Finally, the two doubles teams meet in the center, and a voice rings out over the intercom. "Rikkaidaigaku Fuzoku, Yagyuu-Niou pair to play Seishungakuen, Oishi-Kikumaru pair."
Oishi and Kikumaru move to the net, eyes focused on the other team's players. Oishi, ever the leader, offers his hand to shake. "Let's have a good game," he says, his voice sure and confident. "We're here to win!"
The two Rikkai players look unimpressed. "I doubt you'll last long," the player with glasses shrugs, and takes his place in the serving box.
The voice of the intercom announces the start of the game, and I edge forward, eyes fixed to the ball. The Rikkai players are good, I decide, watching the flawless serve.
Oishi and Kikumaru are quick to answer, firing rally after rally. They're in top form today, and more than just determined. The golden pair has a certain energetic passion that's lacking in their opponents. Rikkai plays well, but they lack drive. I'm not surprised when Seigaku wins the first game. Oishi and Kikumaru clasp hands, in good spirits. Oishi smiles confidently, and Kikumaru is focused.
The Rikkai players, however, just smirk, unperturbed. They're not bothered by their lack-luster game at all. I stare at the Rikkai pair, and wonder what they're thinking.
Oishi serves well, right to the service line, but Rikkai is there, waiting. This game's different-they run the golden pair to the ground, hitting vicious shots that zip out of reach. Oishi and Kikumaru are surprised at the sudden change in play style, and it's showing in their play. Kikumaru throws a few points away, unable to keep up with the lightening-fast shot. Behind me, Inui mumbles some statistics about Rikkai's "laser beam". So that's what they call that shot. Huh.
"What a sneaky trick!" Momo grumbles, clenching the railing. "Aaah, Rikkai makes my blood boil!"
"Ch, stupid," Kaido utters. "You're just upset because you lost the last match."
"What do you mean I lost the match, eh, viper?" Momo raises his voice, temper flaring. "I think you had a part in that as well!"
"Quiet, you two!" Ryuuzaki orders, not even looking away from the game.
"I don't know, it seems like a good strategy." Fuji murmurs. "They threw the first game, but were able to get a good idea of how the Golden Pair plays…not to mention the mental advantage they gain by changing their own play so drastically."
I watch Kikumaru dash after a ball, just barely missing it.
Kikumaru scowls and clenches his fists. The game is over.
The Rikkai supporters cheer, but the players seem oblivious. The player wearing eyeglasses drinks some water, but his teammate just stands there silently.
Oishi and Kikumaru approach me, and I hand them each a towel. Oishi murmurs "Thank you," but doesn't meet my eyes.
I slurp Inui's milkshake loudly, and Oishi looks up, confused. "Haven't you guys been practicing a new formation?" I ask. "Or are you going to let them push you around the court?"
"Okay, squirt!" Kikumaru says, a hint of energy returning to his face. "I'll unleash my special technique and beat that super-whatever shot!"
"Laser beam," Oishi says dryly. "All right!" Oishi pumps his fist. "That's the spirit, Eiji! We'll show them what Seigaku's made of!" And they return to the courts, looking much better than they had minutes before.
I settle into the bench, and prepare to watch things heat up.
It's Rikkai's serve. Niou's serve is energetic, and strategically placed, but Oishi hits it back, not waiting to see if the opposing team misses; he's quick to assume the Australian formation. Kikumaru's sprinting much faster than before, already into position even as Rikkai hits the ball back into Seigaku's court.
This time, the laser shot is returned. The eyeglass-wearing Rikkai player hits it back just as fast, but Kikumaru runs it down as well.
"0-15" sounds out.
Rikkai's doubles pair, however, is nonpulsed, amused even.
Rikkai's return shot is unbelievably fast-Kikumaru can only blink as it whizzes by. The golden pair are stock-still for an instantly, but quickly go back into game mode. There's no way they'll miss again.
I watch the other team closely, puzzled. It's not the same guy shooting the lasers- it's his teammate. His shot cuts at a harsher angle, and is faster. The difference in their shots is huge.
Oishi and Kikumaru are surprised, but the still go after each ball. Seigaku doesn't get any more points, leaving the score at 1-2.
"Don't mind," Oishi tells Kikumaru, but his voice is shaky. "We can make our game." Oishi is trying too hard-but I guess it's only natural since he's standing in as captain.
Neither he nor Kikumaru says anything to me as they switch courts, but I don't care. I'm more interested in what they'll do. Tennis has always been exciting, and this match is the first I've attended since before I was admitted. I would give anything to be on that court right now, but I'm stuck watching from the bench.
At least I can see well.
Kikumaru tosses his racket, from hand to hand, his attention fixed on Rikkai. Kikumaru's a flurry of energy, chasing down ball after ball, actually getting close to where it arrived. He steps faster and faster, darting into Oishi's area as well. Oishi doesn't dash to the front, however, but stays in the back. Kikumaru leaps, moving impossibly fast. He hits the ball, but only barely. It hits the side of his racket, and ricochets to the side of the court.
"Eiji!" Oishi starts, but he doesn't say anything more. Instead, he goes back to his position.
The two lasers keep Seigaku from scoring even a single point, though Kikumaru gets close. It's 40-love, and Kikumaru looks desperate, but also angry. He glares at Oishi like his partner isn't keeping his side up. They're tense, and, unsurprisingly, their teamwork is starting to wear.
Rikkai slams another ball across the net, and I know my teammates aren't going to hit it. I can't stand watching this one sided battle.
"Keep on fighting!" I yell, surprising even myself.
Rikkai actually fouls.
I smirk, and when my teammates turn to look at me, I give them thumbs up. I look at them, and Oishi meets my gaze.
He smiles, and something strange happens. Kikumaru takes the back end of the court, abandoning his net position. And Oishi doesn't even seem to mind. They're not going to let another ball past them without a fight- I can see it in their faces. Rikkai will have to sweat to win the next set.
Rikkai hits a flat laser serve straight down the center, but Oishi sidesteps it, letting Kikumaru get it. Kikumaru runs like the devil's on his heels to get a shot at that ball, and he makes it.
Kikumaru hits the ball, but it flies too far out of bounds. He grins anyways, ready to fight out the next game.
Seigaku may be down 3-4, but you couldn't tell from the look on their faces. Oishi's serve is flawless, and fast. It's not as sharp as Rikkai's laser shot, but his aim is better than anyone's. The two teams hit the ball back and forth with vigor, pushing against their limits, raising the standard with every volley.
Kikumaru makes a great game-maker, and with Oishi backing him they're near invincible.
Rikkai's laser shot cuts just as hard and fast, but Seigaku is playing on a higher level. We're tied 40-40, but Rikkai's players are losing form. They make a great pair, but they're not in sync the way Oishi and Kikumaru are. Seigaku takes the set with a well-placed moon volley. I smirk across the court at Yukimura, but he's not looking my way. He's perfectly at ease, not worried in the least. Heh, Well, he'll see what Seigaku can do soon enough.
Rikkai's captain is speaking to his doubles pair, expression blank.
I look up at Oishi and Kikumaru and smirk. Not that they can tell, with this stupid mask on… "Now this is tennis." I say, and hand them some water. "Can't believe you let those guys," I jerk a thumb at Momo and Kaido, "lose the first game, though. Seigaku's level can't fall that much while I'm gone. You guys are in good enough shape."
"Hmm, Kiddo's being nice," Kikumaru makes a fake surprised face. "Hehe, we're doing good, he said!"
"You still have to catch up, you know," I remind him. "You're still down."
"For now," Oishi grins. "We're going to win this game!" I nod as I watch the other team talk. The doubles pair is completely absorbed in Yukimura's speech, not looking anywhere else at all.
I don't have anything else to say, though. The golden pair wants to win, and they're in a good mindset. They'll get themselves through this game without me lecturing them. Oishi and Kikumaru don't seem to expect much from me, though. Just to watch them play, and say a few words when they stop for a drink. This coach thing is a little boring.
As soon as they're back on the court, however, my attention is fixed on the players.
It's Rikkai's serve, the player wearing eyeglasses is in place. I frown. Wasn't the other one wearing eyeglasses before?
I look from player to player, and sure enough, the first guy isn't wearing glasses anymore. Huh. That's some sneaky strategy, reversing roles like that…the shock of the real laser had surprised Seigaku's golden pair, but not any more. Now that we've seen their trick, they've got nothing but skill to keep taking the games. Like they'll be able to.
The first serve is as fast and deadly as ever, but Oishi is already into position. Kikumaru is controlling the game from the back, making certain the ball goes where he or Oishi can get to it. But Rikkai has other plans-they take the first point with a clever move. But Oishi and Kikumaru keep their calm, simply waiting for the next serve.
I wonder if Rikkai's even trying to hit good laser shots, knowing that Seigaku can counter them. A shot like that would be hard to hit continuously…not with the same speed and accuracy, anyways. The two teams volley the ball back and forth, hitting faster and faster while sending their opponents to opposite ends of the court. But Kikumaru's reflexes are not easy to match, and Seigaku scores a point to tie us at 15-15. Hm. This set's going to be interesting, I think.
Neither team is willing to back down. I lean forward intently, ready and waiting for whatever these guys'll give.
They don't disappoint me, that's for sure. Kikumaru and Oishi are full of energy, and their teamwork is faultless. Rikkai's doubles pair is hard pressed to keep up with them, but they give it their all. Too bad for them, though. Their fancy shots aren't enough to break the Golden Pair. Not today, anyways. The match plays on in front of me and I smile. Seigaku is going for the win.
Not much longer, the referee calls out "Seishungakuen 6-4, game, set, match."
The crowd roars in appreciation. I smirk at Kikumaru and Oishi, and take a sip of my milkshake. This is much better than watching old tapes on TV all day. Much better.
"Ochibi!" little boy, "We did it!" Kikumaru chirps, holding his arms out wide. He looks like he's about to give someone- probably me- a hug. "We did it, we did it, we did it!" Kikumaru grins wide, and leans towards me.
"Eiji!" Oishi reprimands, but he's smiling too. "Echizen needs to rest!" He looks firmly at Kikumaru and holds his hand up.
"Oishi, we won, we won, we won!" Kikumaru gushes. Instead of giving his partner a high five, though, he gives Oishi a tight squeeze. Just as soon as he gives our Co-Captain a hug, he turns around to face the other regulars. "Seigaku~"
"Fight-o!" they chorus. With all the smiles on their faces, I'm sure the singles matches are going to be full of energy.
"All right, team!" Oishi calls, and with a brief nod to me, trots over to where the others are.
"We all have important matches here ahead of us," he begins, all the while whipping his face with a towel. "so let's keep going at this level!"
"Yeah, yeah, let's all win!" Kikumaru adds, sliding in next to Kawamura. "Taka, here's your racket!" he grins.
"Seigaku~" Kawamura bellows. "Fight-o!" And he leaps from the stands.
I smile and pull my hat down. These guys might have too much energy.
Rikkai doesn't stand a chance.
(Taka PoV)
The first single's match is over. I still can't wrap my mind around it, and apparently, neither can Momo.
"So, you know, Inui and Yanagi used to be doubles partners, right? Their first game was like they were testing each other, spouting statistics and stuff. So, it looked like Inui is at a disadvantage at 5-4 in Rikkai's favor, but it was really a plan of Inui's. He made it just like the first match they had back in grade school." Momoshiro gestures enthusiastically with his egg sandwich and then takes a bite out if it. "He told me so," Momo says around the sandwich.
Just after the team meeting, we broke for lunch. The first singles match went quickly, and we're all full of energy. No one expected Seigaku to do so well against Rikkaidai's champions, but we've progressed nicely.
"I know, I know," Echizen grumbles, picking at his bento, boxed lunch. "I was there you know. Closer than you were even." Echizen looks at Momoshiro with amusement, and takes a slow drink of his grape soda. "Inui won. Yeah, I saw."
"But it was awesome!" Momo clenches his hand into a fist, looking like he's about ready to squish his sports drink. "And Oishi and Kikumaru did great, too! You should have seen the other guy's expression, kiddo." Momo's face is the picture of amusement. "Oh, yeah, you did see it! Ehehe."
I smile into my thermos bottle. Momo is certainly worked up.
"Heh, you seem distracted, Taka." Fuji's quiet voice interrupts my thoughts. "Thinking about someone nice?" Fuji smiles teasingly.
"Eh, Fuji! I didn't see you there." I grin at him apologetically. "What do you mean 'thinking about someone nice?'" I frown at Fuji. "It's not like that, you! It's just nice to see Echizen out of the hospital is all..."
"Hm, that's true." Fuji agrees, nodding sagely. "He does look pale; I'm sure the sun will do him some good. And the tennis." Fuji smiles crookedly. "Not to mention the home-made bento. Really, the three of you didn't each need to make a bento...three is a bit much. But it looks like he's eating yours, Taka." Fuji tilts his head to the side to consider Echizen. "Though he could stand to eat all three..."
"Hey, you know I can hear you, right?" Echizen turns to glare at Fuji and me. "Stop talking about me!" He pulls his hat down lower, and resolutely turns away from us.
I notice he takes a large bite of the umeboshi nigiri, pickled plum rice ball, and picks up the vegetable sushi. Probably a good thing I didn't give him sushi...I think I read somewhere that cancer patients aren't supposed to eat raw fish...or was that pregnant women?(* )
I shake my head and look at Fuji and chuckle awkwardly. "Ehe, yeah, it's nice everybody's all together. Seigaku is defiantly going to win!" I smile, trying to sound more confident than I feel.
"Oh?" Fuji's eyes meet mine, like he's searching for something. "And what about your match, Taka?"
Fuji never has been one to walk away from a challenge. "Eheh, I kind of hoped we'd have won before I had to play." I smile with embarrassment and push some beans around in my box lunch. Both Fuji and I know that it's not likely that I'm going to win. Not against Rikkaidai's "Emperor."
"Just enjoy the game." Fuji suggests, and he sits down beside me. "Hmmm, your lunch always looks so good. Mind if I have a bit?" Fuji smiles politely. "You can have some of my wasabi and ham sandwich if you like."
"Eh, no thanks." I laugh. "But you can have some, sure." I offer Fuji my lunch box.
To my left, Momo and Echizen eat in silence, Momo slurping his drink and Echizen chewing his rice ball thoughtfully. Seeing the pair of them sitting together at this tennis match is nice, I think. Everyone's glad to have him with us. Relieved as I am to see Echizen here, though, my stomach still lurches.
Is it because I'm worried about the first year, or because I know that my match is a throwaway game? I know nobody expects me to win-not against Sanada. I'm just filling the space while Tezuka and Echizen are away.
No one expects either Inui or me to win-if Tezuka or Echizen were here-
but I can't think of that!
I just need to relax. If I could enjoy tennis for what it is-a game-and enjoy the thrill of a match, everything will be fine. I don't need to worry about winning or losing. I just have to enjoy myself-and be glad that everyone's here, together.
I take a deep breathe, and smile. Today's going to be a good day, no matter the outcome.
fin. (more or less. Not where I planned on finishing, but I don't see myself writing more).
Citations:
* Actually, I did (originally) read that when I was looking at my older sister's book on pregnancy. But, according to National University Hospital, "One point to note: as chemotherapy will weaken your immune system, it is important to avoid any uncooked food (such as sushi etc.) to prevent infection." So, while Ryoma probably could eat sushi, he probably shouldn't. Unless he knows it is freshly prepared and kept properly cold.
"Chemotherapy." National University Hospital. 23 July 08.
Absolute neutrophil count (ANC) is a measure of the number of neutrophil granulocytes (also known as polymorphonuclear cells, PMN's, polys, granulocytes, segmented neutrophils or segs) present in the blood. Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell that fights against infection.
"Absolute neutrophil count." Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. 22 Feb 2007, 08:15 UTC. Wikimedia Foundation, Inc. 24 Feb 2007
I've also picked up a medical beta, Ara Hannan (see my bio for a link). Without her empathetic words, and medical experience, this story may not have gone as far as it did. Thank you, Ara for your friendship, and all your help.
Unfortunately, this story has been discontinued/ is on hiatus. Eg. It's not likely to be "finished" (though this is a fairly plausible place to end...it ends on an up note, yeah?). It's been a good ride, and quite a learning experience for me as a growing writer. :) I've changed a lot since I started, and (I hope) my writing improved some.
I was able to connect with quite a few people with similar experiences to mine, and that was gratifying. None of us are alone in our experiences with cancer, ALL or otherwise! I'm very glad to share experiences with others.
Thank you all again for your continued support!
