Chapter 11:

Chapter 11: Godslayer: Is It Possible?

Breakout: What Did I Get Myself Into? (Draft Ver.)


The two were face to face at their final roadblock—none other than the strongest student at Kita.

Evie called out to Reito in a lowered tone. “He’s worn down...not sure by how much, though. I think I understand how his power works, now, too. When he’s attacked, he’s immediately told which way to dodge so if we rush, we should be able to- Hngh!” A sharp pain shooting through arm made her bite her tongue as she fell to her knees.

Reito looked at her sternly through his peripheral. She’s way worse off than me right now... If she were to fight again, then...

He’s the reactive type, so... “He’ll definitely wait for us to act first,” she pointed out, “so we’ll go on three, okay? One...”

“That’s a big nope from me, midget,” Reito nonchalantly rejected. “We’re down to just the one guy, just like ya planned, although some of what led to this didn’t play out one for one like ya wanted. So I’ll handle it from here—you’ve done enough. ‘Sides, this is a primo chance for me to show just how much stronger than ya I’ve gotten!” He told her, adamantly butting his fists together.

“What are you talking about?! Let me-!”

“Just pop a squat and watch, I’ve gotta pay him back for lookin’ down on me, anyways. Although...if ya jump in at any point;not like I could stop ya… You’re still faster than me after all, if only by a smidge,” he said, pulling out two Nei-Spheres and approaching Gold.

Evie was taken aback. On the surface, he appeared to be showing his arrogant side by pushing her to the side and going into the fray by himself to prove some sort of point, but she was smart enough to see through him.

That’s not it... he knows I’ll have a hard time moving, and if I strain too hard, it’d end badly. This is his way of saying ‘Rest, kay.’—his way of telling me that he’s concerned about me

Gold took a breath. Alone...? Surprisingly, his judgement’s pretty good; Tanaka would just slow him down in her condition.

“Gotta make this count,” Reito mumbled, shaking a bit. Even though he’s weakened, it’s especially best not to give him any room to breathe... One Max Impact left... With that, he sent two spheres careening towards Gold.

Avoiding any damage, Gold turned to slip in between them, seamlessly.

You can dodge those, I’ve got no problems with that, just wanted a diversion. Now that you’re there, take this!” Reito roared, circling around to a blind spot.

“Easy... So you are just stupid,”

Gold stuck his foot out, tripping Reito as he tossed him overhead. The spheres came afterwards, just as planned, but Gold ducked them like it was second nature.

Reito let out a wail as he was plopped onto his back.

“Tochi!”

Neigh cupped a hand to his chin. “As always, Gold shows why he’s got the record he does; his battle senses are especially crazy for someone in the first school...”

Gold scoffed. “Must hurt; guess Mayer already did a number on your back. I wasn’t expecting much to begin with—even with that in mind—you’re disappointing. The possibility of cheating aside; beating Zeno’o in a head on clash means your strength could pose a threat. But if you never connect, what’s the point? Tanaka was way more of a hassle to deal with.”

Coughing and digging his nails into the moist ground, Reito rose to his feet.

“Y’know...for a guy who might as well have been mute, you’re pretty chatty now. What changed, did Lightnin’ Bug mess ya up that badly?”

“I only talk when I’m pushed to... Otherwise, I hate throwing around words so carelessly. And if you’re trying to use my anger against me, don’t bother. I know how to control mine when it counts.”

“Damn, was worth a try though,” Reito said, coming at Gold with a swiping palm, only for Gold to do a backwards upper kick, knocking his arm arm away. That didn’t work either! What else can I-?

A roundhouse kick to the side of his head from Gold didn’t even give Reito time to put together a thought, sending him straight to the ground.

“Damn-!”

“Weak...that's really all you’ve got?” Gold had turned his back, boredly waiting for the next attempt at an offensive.

Reito pushed himself up off the ground, wheezing erratically. It’s not workin’...nothin’s workin’!” Outspeed him? No, he’s faster than me. Could I win power wise? That’s no good either, even though he’s scuffed up, he’s still so tough! I can’t even drag any Aura out! He clutched his chest.

The rapid beating of his heart, adrenaline shooting through him. It was similar to the feeling he got when he clashed with Chikara—but it was different, somehow—deep down—he could feel it.

Reito held his head in the dirt. I’m...I’m... RRAAAAAGGGH! SHAADDUUP!” He shouted, sending a right hook flying in a last ditch effort.

“Form’s getting sloppy there,” Gold said aloud as he grabbed Reito’s arm, pulled him in and then elbowed him in the stomach.

“Gold...logically speaking, he should be easier to beat now,” Neigh pondered with furrowed brows,” especially with all the electricity he took, but he’s been able to shrug off the after effects of paralysis. As for Usodachi...he’s not even giving the kid an inch; it’s a one-sided brawl. They’re both Boost Types, but the disparity in skill makes all the difference. I’m sure he’s probably noticed by now… The entire time he’s been on the offensive, Gold’s position...”

Reito winced as he slowly stepped back from his opposition, sweat dripping from his forehead as he felt his knees start to wobble.

“What’s wrong...?” Gold asked, turning to face him with a reserved scowl. “Aren’t you a part of the infamous “Storm’s Impact”—the strongest ninja duo that even God fears? That’s you two, Reito Usodachi and Evie Tanaka, right...?”

“U-um... I... I...” Reito’s speech fell apart as he inched back, little by little.

“Judging from the way you’re shaking like a mutt and dripping with sweat, looks like you’re the one scared of me, no?” He examined Reito up and down. “Well, guess I don’t blame you. It’s easy to make a false prior assessment without actually experiencing anything that pertains to said judgement. After all,” he flared his arms out, “this is your first run-in with an actual God!”

“G-God...?” Reito gulped.

“Exactly,” Gold raised a finger, “You thought everything would go perfectly according to a plan Tanaka came up with, right? Let me tell you, I planned for two scenarios, one where Mayer and I completely decimated you, and the one that’s happening right now, everything down to how you’re shaking in your boots....”

“...!” Reito shuddered.

Evie broke into a small sweat. He basically planned all of this, every little thing? No way...I knew he was smart...but to this level?!

“It ticked me off,” Gold shrugged, “People even called me omnipotent, battle-wise. No matter what came my way, dealing with it was a cakewalk. I was all but touchable...until your little partner shattered that all in one fight,” he pointed to her with an animosity filled glare. “She surpassed my expectations for a second there—made me look like a joke! And I can’t just let that slide. So, after I’m done with you; I’ll continue with my revenge. Maybe I’ll go for the tibia next, or maybe the femur? Which would you prefer, Mr. Pawn Scum...?

Reito mustered the strength to take a step forward, looking to engage his opponent again. “N-no! you’ll hafta get...by m-!”

Gold who brought his hands in front of him calmly in a “Hold on” gesture. “I’d think about this if I were you. But, just in case you’re getting any reckless ideas, let me let you in on something else,” he started, tapping a finger on his forehead. “From the beginning of this battle—all the way up to this point—not once had I even thought about using my ability against you.”

“You weren’t...usin’ your Path? You’re lyin’!” Reito shouted with a shiver.

Shizuka brought a hand over her mouth. “He’s just been toying with Rei this whole time?!”

“Hmph, think I’m lying? The only thing threatening about you is that unusual energy you clad your attacks in. But as it stands—you can’t hit me.”

No way... No way...!“! C-Can’t hitcha...? Y...Yeah, right! Ya can’t dodge everythin’, idiot!”

Reito’d had enough, charging forward.

Gold only sighed at him, shaking his head out of disappointment.

“Who’s the actual idiot, here?”

Reito came at him with a jab, which was a feint for an incoming roundhouse kick. Gold didn’t seem thrown off by it in the slightest, though, slapping Reito’s leg away and sliding a backfist across his face.

“Wha...?”

“You’re not the only one with something special up your sleeve. The reason I’ve been able to call out your attacks without the use of my ability; is because of my Advanced Observation [A.O].”

Reito ground his teeth, spinning on the ground hoping to knock The Seer off balance by the foot, only for him to avoid it with a well timed leap as he sent Reito rolling with a jump kick to the face.

Gold landed elegantly, cracking his neck. “It’s simple to explain: Ever notice someone’s eyes veer to the right when lying, or begin to look up when they get lost in thought-?”

“Raaaaaaaaahh! Reito cut him off, growling and rushing at him with an onslaught of punches and kicks.

He’s gotta slow up, eventually...!

Despite his advances—Gold parried and sidestepped every attack—continuing his explanation like doing so and dodging was simple. It was as if he didn’t even register Reito’s presence, let alone his numerous strikes.

“They’re habits formed unbeknownst to the person—choreographing specific actions—and it’s no different when it comes to fighting. For example,” he knocked away Reito’s right jab, “everytime you throw an attack with your right arm, your right eyebrow furrows more than usual.”

Reito blinked. It does...? I didn’t even know that!

“Everyone has these telltale signs and minor inclinations, although they differ from person to person.” He ducked a kick and cracked Reito in the chest with an elbow; as well as his chin with a cross.

“Ugh!”

“Breathing patterns—such as how yours labors when attempting a feint, body language, speech patterns, pulse. They’re waning on unnoticeable to most—but I’ve honed my analytical skill to perfection. That way—even without my Path—predicting most approaches is as simple as breathing for me.”

The crowd looked on in what seemed to be a mix of worry and pity.

“Usodachi’s gettin’ thrashed... It’s almost hard to watch...

“It’s totally one-sided! Mr. Banner, maybe you should stop this.”

Although their change in tune was communicated to Neigh, he just wore a focused look and gave his head a shake.

“I hear you all, loud and clear. But nope, not gonna. Losing battle or not—the worst Gold admitted to was trying to break some bones—which isn’t technically against the rules. And he’s smart enough not to up and get himself thrown outta the Academies. If he tries worse; then, I’ll call it or step in. Most importantly, though, look.”

He pointed up to the holo-screen that had begun focusing on Reito’s movements.

“See that? The way his face is clenched, along with the way his muscles are tensing up with each motion. It’s a learning experience. If you’re a student here, the further you advance through the ranks, the more you’re put through the wringer. And Usodachi’s getting a first-hand taste of that. There are monsters in the upper schools that you couldn’t even fathom. From here, things pick up steam, so to speak.

His attacks hitting nothing but air, Reito continued to be strung along by his opponent, like a cat following a laser pointer.

“It’s his fight, and if he can’t cut it, he can quit, whenever. Till then, put up with it. If you can’t bare to watch, just leave. It’s already enough that he’s struggling; he doesn’t need pity.

His tone was serious, but also caring, in a way. He was so disconnected from his earlier demeanor that if anyone had said he’d been switched out for a fake, it would have been hard to dismiss as a lie.

And so, possibly thrown for a loop by this change, or just out of respect for the man, the crowd quieted down.

A tense scowl plastered on Reito’s face, he threw his right palm forward, which was easily caught by his opponent.

How about this, then!

He resolved to ram his right knee into Gold’s stomach while he was off guard; full-force. Even still, Gold brought his left hand down, catching it.

Reito made to back off, but Gold kneed him in the jaw, his vision blurring as a loud ringing shot through his ears.

Evie could only watch as her partner was being toyed with; her face riddled with guilt.

But Gold wasn’t finished; not yet.

He yanked Reito along by the collar, sending him spinning in mid-air. And with a simple raise of the leg, he smashed Reito into the ground by the chest.

Gold looked to be in a daze for a brief period. “...What was I saying again? Oh, right. A.O. also makes it a breeze to, oh, I don’t know, evade and counter any and all attacks without moving too much.”

Having heard this, Reito slowly peered down at Gold’s position and footing. At that time, it became shockingly clear to him. A-Are ya...kiddin’me? No way, right? I must be delusional...he doesn’t even look like he’s moved even an inch! I didn’t even push him back? “Seriously?! SERIOUSLY?!” He panicked in his head as his pupils dilated.

A lump sat in his throat; his hands trembling. Even if he didn’t want to admit it, a feeling Reito didn’t expect to experience during this fight began to wash over him like a crashing tide—terror.

“Hey! Just calm down, Tochi!”

“Shocked? Frightened? Tanaka was the same before you came crashing into her, but you’re even more so. And I’m pretty sure you don’t even know why you’re feeling so yourself. If I’m not mistaken, you were a recluse until a week or so ago, right? I wonder what happened for you to shut yourself off from the world like that? Either way, it tells something, you gave up and ran away, plain and simple.”

“Th-That's...n-not-”

“Before you even think about denying it, listen here. It’s a common belief that in the martial arts world; you can understand quite a bit about your adversary through an exchange of blows. Obviously, I’ve learned how you operate, too. You’re standoffish, reckless, even. Thinking ahead isn’t your first, or last choice. Living that way, you can then gauge what works and what doesn’t based on the outcome of a situation—akin to the scientific method, only in low risk scenarios, though. Also, you strive for confidence, not uncommon. In your case, though, it’s a double-edged sword. You want to feel good about yourself and have fun. For example, when you fought Zeno’o, you realized that you love fighting. And why wouldn’t you? Adrenaline;s as euphoric as it comes... However, in those scenarios, you were dealing with fights that weren’t anything you thought you couldn’t deal with.”

“Usodachi, you can still do it! Don’t back down now!” Chikara shouted to no avail.

“It’s easy to think for a second, ‘Hey, I could totally do this! What a rush!’., yadda, yadda. because at that moment, you feel that you’ve got decent odds of winning. It’s natural. But in the face of overwhelming power or skill, something you haven’t experienced much of, or at all in your life depending on circumstance— you shut down. To top it off, you’ve expended all your options. “‘Nothing's working!’, is what you begin to think, even if you probably haven’t tried but a few things. And just like that, before you know it, three words creep into your head. They’re ‘I’m scared... Run!’”

Reito covered his mouth. “...!”

“Looks like I hit the nail on the head. I provoked you earlier because I wanted to test your volition. You said you wanted to become King, right? You, someone who spent all day in their dorm wasting his life away, only to just drop in one day? It drove me to the point of anger. I couldn’t believe someone like you would aspire to lead this City to anything but disparity. You’re a joke, and I proved that in less than a day. The only one here who’ll be King,” he jabbed a thumb to his chest, “and that’s me! I’ll lead this infrastructure to greatness and security with a God among men! As a result, everyone will praise me.

“Was The Seer always this narcissistic?”

“It’s really bizarre, He’s kinda bordering on villainous now. I mean, a God, seriously?!”

The students clamored in concern as they watched on.

“Now I’ve confirmed it for sure, someone like you could never be King. After all, if a ruler doesn’t believe in themselves, how could anyone believe in them?

Gold looked past Reito to focus on Evie.

“I’m sure she already noticed that about you, probably why she put together that idiotic intro.

“Urk!” She flinched.

“You’re childish, but you’re also smarter than I gave you credit for. Good job, Tanaka. I’m still going to punish you, though, so don’t worry. As for you,” he shifted his focus back on Reito, “if you can’t even land a single hit on me at this point, you might as well pack it up and go running to your dorm, no one would blame you. Nothing scary there, either. I promise, I’ll be a fantastic King. But on the off chance you want to keep going, I can just crush your fingers. Quit now, or be subject to pain, your choice, Usodachi,” he offered.

“No, don’t listen to him, Tochi! Don’t quit!”

Chikara stood up from his seat. “Usodachi, push! What, are you gonna just beat Mayer and I and call it quits?!! I thought you said you’d become the King?!!

“Zeno’o’s still pulling for the guy, I know everyone hates the guy but… the way Gold is now, rooting for him doesn’t seem like such a bad thing to do. Usodachi, let’s go!”

“Yeah! You and the Fulgur Shade can clobber him, just don’t give up!”

“You two can win, just do it already!”

The students in the audience changed their tune and began shouting encouraging words to the both of them.

Well, if everyone’s already screaming, guess there’s no point in not letting loose… Shizuka thought as she stood to her feet and put her fist out in front of her, “Rei, you said you wanted to be the King, so if you give up now, I’ll knock your teeth out, you hear?!”

Kid...do you really want it to end like this? Neigh wondered.

Even with the crowd cheering so loud he started to hear them through the simulation, the boy was still paralyzed with fear.

He struck his legs with his fists, over and over.

I-I c-can’t even move my legs...they won’t listen to me! My vision’s kinda blurry...hard to see, he thought as he slowly raised his arm above his head,” I just wanted to be at the top so that I could run away again, anyway...I’m pathetic... With even his mind against him, he began to speak aloud. “Sorry...Shion, Meat Tank, Lightnin’ Bug. I give-”

Before he could finish his thought, Evie sprung up to her feet, dashed to his side and punched him square in the jaw, sending him hurtling through a tree.

Surprised, Gold burst into laughter “Ba-ha-ha! Fighting amongst yourselves now? At least you two are so good for a laug-!”

“YOU! SHUT UP!” She roared, pulling her mask down revealing a petrifying scowl.

Oh...? He backed off, if only out of interest to what she might do next.

The girl began to stomp towards her partner as he sat up and rubbed his cheek. “Ow... Owwww! What’s the big idea?!” he questioned as she grabbed him by the shirt collar and brought him to eye level.

“I SHOULD BE ASKING YOU THAT, YOU ULTRA-IDIOT-BASTARD! ARE YOU CRAZY?!!”

Her tone was loud and booming. If she was joking at this point, Reito figured she’d have to be a pretty convincing actor.

Ever since they met, Reito had no doubt in his mind that a girl like her could never get mad, not even livid. But that snap judgement was shattered right before his very eyes as her words came down on him like a raging storm.

“YOU’RE JUST GONNA GIVE UP, AFTER EVERYTHING WE DID? THE TRAINING, THE WEAPON MR.BANNER MADE FOR YOU, SHIZU’S ADVICE, OUR DECLARATION, ALL OF THAT?”

“But...I can’t win... I’m just a scared, pathetic loser... Sorr-”

“SORRY, NOTHING! JUST LOOK AT ME!” She continued her tirade as Reito took a closer look, only to notice that she was shaking almost twice as hard as he was.

“You’re the same...?”

“Of course,” she confirmed, lowering her tone a bit, “I’ve been scared of Gold ever since I met him. That intro I put together was meant to be just as much of a confidence boost for me as it was for you, but I guess it was a waste of time! I’m shocked, Reito! Weren’t you trying to show me up?! Were you just blowing hot air?!” She asked, her use of his nickname absent.

“W-Well, no, I did want to...but I couldn’t even make him budge... How am I supposed to call myself strong, or even say I wanna be King after all this? It took gettin’ stomped over and over...but I admit it—you’re stronger than me,” he divulged, looking down. “Sorry I’m so weak...”

“Yeah, you are weak. So? Who cares about that? No one’s expecting you to be some unstoppable force right off the bat,” she lifted his head so that their eyes could meet, “and besides, it’s only because you’re comparing yourself to Gold. If you really looked at it, you’d notice you’re pretty strong in your own right. In the first place, you can’t exist without being challenged, dummy! When you come to a wall that you think you can’t get past, barrel into it at full force! Even if your body starts to break, don’t stop till you’ve smashed through the other side! After that, dust yourself off and keep moving! That’s what a ruler would do, right?”

“Evie...”

“As for me, I’m not tapping out. I’ve already run away once in my life; but never again. Heck, I can’t even feel my arm, and I didn’t give up no matter how many times I was knocked down, I’d fight until I couldn’t move anymore rather than throw in the towel because I was outmatched. But if you still wanna run away with your tail between your legs; I’ll be angry at you, but go ahead. I’ll just face him myself!”

With her conviction being made clear, she shakily stood up to face Gold.

“Eager to be beaten that badly? Alright...come at me,” Gold provoked, sticking his hand out with a “Come on” gesture.

Even though she’s scared shitless...even though we’ve got no chance. She’s still gonna try...? Damn it! This guy’s right, Gold’s words rang true in Reito’s head as he stood up beside her.

Yes, he was pathetic—a coward, even. But after taking in Evie’s words, even he could find it in him to fight.

Every cell in my body is screamin’ at me to hightail it right now... But...I...!

Gold stepped back in surprise. “You!”

“Usodachi...that’s the spirit,” Chikara said.

“Damn it, Lightnin’ Bug, why the hell are ya so cool? Just when I got the nerve to call it quits, ya had to go and motivate me all protagonist-like. Are ya tryna make me fall for ya or somethin’?” He teased.

She noticed him and slowly changed her frown to a warm smirk. “We’re on our last legs, even I wouldn’t try to tease you right now. Besides, there’s no way I could fall for a coward like you.

He flinched before pounding his fist to his palm. “Urk! ...Ouch. Can’t say I deserved that... Still, just you watch—this snivellin’ coward is on his way to be the bravest guy you’ve ever laid your eyes on! Got any problems with that?!

Though cross with him, a light chuckle escaped her lips. “None here. I’ve gotta see it to believe it though, so show me right now!”

“You’re on, ya nosey cosplay nut!”

“Since we’re going all in,” she said, rolling the upper part of her Dogi down and over her shoulders to unearth a simple black tank top and slender upper body,” I might as well make it easier to move!”

Reito’s eyes instantly darted over to her against his will.

Whoa, whoa...whoa...I always thought she was really skinny, but she’s just super toned! She’s even got abs! He mumbled subconsciously. “Hot as hell...er...I mean...!” He halted his wandering perverse thoughts by slapping the sides of his face,” same here! Check it out! You’re lookin’ at Reito’s 100% effort!”

With that shout, he cast his overshirt aside to make his SOL print shirt stand prominent on his small, but muscular figure.

Shizuka smiled from the stands. “Sha-ha-ha! His max effort, huh? And he said I’d never see it, just as big of a liar as always.

Gold scoffed as he readied himself for the two. “You’re doing nothing but feigning confidence, you morons. It doesn’t matter if you come at me one at a time or all at once, pests are still pests at the end of the day.”

“Oi, what about your charge, how many lightnin’ attacks left in ya?” Reito whispered.

“I’d say about four more to go, and as for Transfers...only one of those left in me.”

“That should be more than enough. If you’ve got any tricky diversionary tactics, now would be the time to show ‘em off.”

“Got one, just need you to provide a little smoke screen. Think you could give me a boost?”

He took off running with his hands clasped together. “Is this guy a major dick? Just get over here already!”

She didn’t utter another word as she perched onto his hands with her feet and was sprung forward in the same motion as a Volleyball serve reception.

A flying kick, Gold crouched down out of the way, allowing Evie to cling to a tree behind him. “He’s coming,” he muttered, looking Reito’s way. But he’s aiming for the legs...is he trying to slow my movement?

The spheres were launched his way, only to stop short of hitting him to barrel into the ground, knocking up so much dirt that it clouded both their visions.

Backin’ out, hope this works! Reito retracted while his partner came soaring down over Gold.

“You should know something like this wouldn’t work,” he condescendingly said, putting his forearm in the way of the attack. He made a fist to knock her away as an oddly satisfied smirk crept onto her face.

“Bleeehh, too bad,” she playfully mocked him, flashing an akanbe at him as her frame turned into pure lightning, chaining to his body.

His hair stood on end as smoke poured from his mouth “Gaaaaahhhh! How did yo-?! Nngh!”

She was under him all of a sudden, slamming her foot into his jaw,

“Evie Style Lightning Release: Shocking Clone Jutsu! No matter what attack is coming your ability lets you see it coming, right? But that’s also a weakness,” she got back onto her feet.

She nailed him in the chest with a knee and sent him flying with a palm thrust from her unbroken hand.

Damn...! Gold thought, regaining his footing.

“If anything at all approaches you, you’re alerted, but it can’t specify between actual people and fired off objects or energy. I noticed it when you tried to dodge my Thor. Not only that, but your A.O. are useless if you can’t see the body. Enhanced Sense is a power moreso based on if you’re able to dodge,—so if you’re in a position where your reactions can’t keep up—you’re taking a hit. In other words...”

Reito ran up to the side of him, gathering Aura on his heel.

“if we come at you while your vision is clouded, we’re bound to hit you! We just can’t let you think! Go for it, Tochi!” She shouted, sweeping Gold off his feet.

“Ya don’t hafta tell me twice!” Nice. I needed time to focus my Aura. How about I dislocate your jaw, asshole?! Retribution Fist: Crescent Moon Hunter, Horizon Zero!”

He decked Gold in the jaw with an Aura charged backwards roundhouse kick that sent him rolling.

As he landed from his attack, he held his forearm up to her, looking for a bump. “Why didn’tcha use that durin’ our spars?”

She brushed him off, coldly turning away from him.

“I think a girl has her rights to some secrets. But that’s neither here nor there, let’s finish it.”

He lowered his arm, with a slightly disheartened look. Right, still pissed.

Gold got up. “He didn’t dislocate it,” he muttered under his breath while clutching his jaw, blood coming out of his mouth. “But he came close... Damn...they’re just scum!” He looked up to notice his two foes rushing toward him. “They drew my blood, these two clowns? I’ll-! Hngh!” He shuddered, grabbing his chest as residual lightning ran over his person.

A glint came to Evie’s eye “Just as expected. No one can take that much electricity and keep kicking without some backlash.!”

“So let’s nail him in the face!” They shouted in unison.

Gold actually began to panic. I-I can see it coming...but I can’t move! W-wait, s-stop...” He pleaded as the two knocked him back with simultaneous haymakers to the face.

“Pincer him!” Reito communicated to his partner as they launched kicks from opposite sides.

“You two...are really ANNOYING!!” Gold shouted out of nowhere as he sent one fist crashing into Evie’s broken arm while the other dug into Reito’s chest.

“AUAGGGHH!” She cried, grasping her arm.

Shit, he’s still up?! Since he doesn’t get hit much, I thought he couldn’t take any abuse; I misread him! Reito grasped his chest.

“Why...why do you two have to get in my way? Just fall, already!” Gold roared with an enraged tone. “I’m at the top—godly in every sense of it! You idiots...Tanaka with your constant talk about ninjary and your crude, idiotic smile and laugh! Just shut it! Your efforts are wasted in the first place; you could never become anything like that! And it’s the same with that moronic Mayer! Working up a beat before you fight, profusely flirting with every girl who so much as even breathes in his direction, and his constant showboating! If he’d just beat you on his own, I wouldn’t have even bled, what a joke of a Student Council VP!”

Reito clenched his fist. “Oi...what did you just say…?”

“Just the complete truth! Just like my assessment towards you, loser!” He responded, pointing a finger at Reito. “Not to mention Zeno’o, the one who put a stain on the Student Council in the first place by losing to someone as weak as you! All he knows is his strength, training and food! Although he’s the strongest out of the four of us, physically, he lacks in every other department! I bet he lost the fight between you two because he started enjoying himself too much! I’m glad he’s off of the Council, anyone who blunders like that doesn’t even deserve the Number Four spot!”

Chikara looked on with a blank stare. “........”

“And now, you two refuse to stay down even when I have you beat, even though you two clearly can’t beat me!” He grit his teeth. “I’m the only one fit to rule this City, a God among everyone! SO JUST KEEL OVER AND ACCEPT THAT I’M ABOVE YOU ALREADY!

Unbeknownst to him, Aura enveloped Reito’s entire body as he clenched his fist and glared at Gold. Seeing this, Gold jumped back to get a better read on him. Wha-?! That energy is coursing all over him...what’s going on?

A vein popped up on Reito’s as he stomped forward.

“...Oh?” Gold started, raising an eyebrow. “You’re approaching me alone?

“Obviously... I can’t smash your teeth in if I don’t!” He answered, raising his fist.”

“Alright, then come as close as you’d like,” he taunted. “Although, I doubt you’ll be able to do-!” Gold brought his arm up to guard as he was sent flying in the blink of an eye. The wind pressure from the blow shook the trees around them.

“Hngh?! What the?!”

It had been from none other than Reito, who’d been growling so much that it turned into a beastly snarl.

He shouldn’t even be able to stand...but just now...he was faster than Tanaka! Gold’s right arm was jittering, like it’d been rattled to the bone; so much that he could barely bring it down. One punch almost shattered my arm! When did he get as strong as Zeno’o?!

Reito leapt forward and rammed his fist into the ground, sending a slim shockwave towards Gold which he narrowly avoided. It sank deep and cleaved into the ground even still.

“100D 2S!”

Using another Max Impact, the shockwave grew even taller and wider, like it had a mind of its own.

It’s a cutting attack...but he’s not a swordsman, no hidden blade, either! What the hell’s happening?!

Gold faded around the shockwave to send a left hook into Reito’s face, but when it connected, Reito waver one bit, not even a flinch. In an unusual turn of events, Gold withdrew his hand while it shuddered and shook from the impact, holding it in front of him as he stepped back with a groan.

H-his skin is toouugghhh! It's like I hit steel! A Patho’s durability is one thing, but this...! What is he?! For the second time in the fight, Gold wore a pained frown, once more.

“You’re hurtin’, huh? Good...but that’s nothin’ compared to the pain that Lightnin’ Bug had to take. So how about this? Just so ya can see what that’s like. An eye for an eye...how bout I break your arm too?!” Reito declared as his voice swelled louder and louder.

“Tochi, what are you…?”

The kid...he’s overflowing with it...Qi! Neigh assessed.

“Hey,” Gold asked, sweating profusely, “what’s going on? How were you able to power up this much from being in such a downtrodden state? What were you hiding?”

“Ask me all ya want...I don’t have a clue,” he answered back, raising his fist, “All I know is that I’m gonna kick your ass!...They’re all just livin’ life how they wanna, even if they may look stupid to you, they’re movin’ forward doin’ the things the way they find some value in, without bein’ held back, and that’s amazin’! Ya say I’m not cut out for the ruler stuff, but you're not even fit yourself. Callin’ yourself God, talkin’ yourself up! Well I don’t care much about the Father Martin thou art in heaven quasi higher bein’ bullshit that you’ve been spewin’, never really been much for religion, anyway! But even I can tell that ain’t how a God should talk!” He scolded, rushing forward and forcing Gold to block the numerous Aura clad punches and kicks.

There was no holding back, he was forcing Gold to resort to Enhanced Sense. Even still, Reito’s movements were getting wilder, Gold thought he resembled a raging bull. But even with that, he was still applying Retribution style to all of his attacks—he retained his technique.

I see all of it coming...but dodging is difficult because of his increasing speed, he’s crashing into me tidal wave!

He barely ducked and weaved around the flurry of strikes, biting his lip so hard that he drew blood.

From that one hit earlier, I can tell...if I block any of this, my arms will be crushed! This idiot’s actually forcing me on the defensive! Damn him! Your point?!” He asked out loud.

“My point is, what kinda God berates the people he wants to follow him?! Buildin’ yourself up by tearin’ others down...ain’t that more devilish than anything?!” he questioned.

“That’s why he’s mad...?” Evie just stared as the two went on.

“You...!” Gold narrowly dodged another slashing kick that ripped the side of his tracksuit.

“Sounds to me like you’re compensation’ for somethin’! If ya really believed that no one was in the same realm as ya, it would go without sayin’! What’s wrong, got somethin’ to hide?!” Reito antagonized Gold as he brought his fist downward.

I’ve got to jump, I can’t take that! Leaping out of the way, Gold felt a sense of deja vu. But wait, I felt this with Tanaka as well... It came out as an overhead attack, but I still feel more coming!

Nowhere to run, now, Reito said.

He had no idea how he was drawing out so much Aura as to clad his whole frame—he hadn’t even been able to produce slashing attacks until now. But as long as he could, he figured he could use it to his advantage.

Might as well try a special move idea I’ve been thinkin’ about for a minute. Granny’s leagues better with this Aura stuff than I am, but I’ve got somethin’ she doesn’t’; 12 years worth of fightin’ game experience!

As those thoughts ran through his mind, he pounded the ground, transferring the Aura shrouded around him snaking towards Gold.

“I don’t have bulgin’ muscles, or a snazzy cap. But I do know one thing, my fury right now is damn near fatal! Now! Roarin’ Aura—burstin’ Impact—combine and send this guy packin’!”

No good! Gold went pale. Him of all people!

“EAT THIS, ‘GOD’! 100D 5S TANDEM SPECIAL MOVE! IMPACT GEYSER: SKYWARD SWORD VERSION!!”

With his roar, the Aura erupted from the ground, taking the form of many energy blades as they engulfed Gold, blasting him into the air while digging into the sides of his body.

“AARRRRGGGGGHHH!” Reito yelled in pain, clasping his arm as he felt the repercussions of overusing his full power. “Urgh...! See that?! I laid your ass out! In the end, we all breathe the same air and walk on the same ground, we can even be beaten! So, wake up already, and see, when it’s all said and done, you’re just a human bein’ like the rest of us! Hear that, Kade?!”

Evie went wide eyed. “He said it...!”

“Gold’s first-”

Chikara smiled. “Even though we told him not to... That guy, he’s seriously gutsy!”

Through all the bewilderment, Kade spun in the air and landed on the ground. He slowly rose to his feet with shallow cuts that bled lightly all over his frame, and with an enraged glare, clenched his fist so hard that blood dripped from his nails digging into his skin.

“That name...never say it, AGAIN!” He exclaimed with bloodshot eyes.

Reito gulped. “...This is bad,” Reito muttered sheepishly.

He thought if he hit him full force with his last Max Impact, Gold would be down for the count. He started regretting not practicing that move more.

Now one of my arms is useless. Heh-heh...guess I got a little too sure of myself. What was it they say about him again, say his first name and he’ll beat ya like a dog? Ha-ha-ha...haah....I’m so fucked,” he realized.

Gold trugged toward him, baring his teeth. “First, making me speak more than necessary…and then saying that name... Why do you two have to constantly piss me off to no end?!”

“Oh, I dunno, it’s just always been a special talent of mine. Makin’ dumb choices is a Reito trademark,” he joked, wobbling back and forth, trying his hardest to continue standing. “Good thing I messed around with my S.P. Otherwise, I would’ve never guessed that I can see other people’s stats too...their names, too. I couldn’t knock ya out...but I did prove somethin’. Turns out, you’re not Godly in the slightest, are ya? After all...some lowly palm scum like me almost beat ya to hell, hah. Ya mad? Did I hurt your widdle fweelins’? Well, I’m right here,” he taunted with his index finger in a “Come on” gesture, “I’ll still curb stomp y-”

An angered Gold decked him in the face with a right straight to stop his taunting short. “QUIT BLUFFING, ALREADY! I CAN TELL YOU USED UP ALL THE ENERGY YOU HAD!!” He shouted, turning his head to the resting Evie. “He’s done for. So, it’s me and you, again, Tanaka-!”

The sound of skidding heels broke Gold’s focus as he turned back to him in astonishment. He had lost the use of his arm, and was extremely fatigued. But even still, he stood up after Gold’s self perceived final blow.

“I know a girl who punches way harder than that when she’s barely even tryin’...that barely tickled,” he boasted, raising his head with a newly acquired black eye and bruised lip.” What’s the matter, Kade? I’m still standin’ here. I guess even someone like you can get weaker the longer they go at it.

“You...stop using that name RIGHT NOW!” Gold punched him in the shoulder blade and then the jaw, pushing him to the ground once more. “Now,” he said, turning his back to Reito, “back to you-!” Only to find himself in a one-armed full nelson, courtesy of Reito.

“H-hey,” Reito huffed with a faint smile, “What do ya think...your doin’? Gods are supposed to finish what they started...right?” He taunted before being thrown overhead and hitting the ground again.

“What...what’s wrong with you?” Gold asked in a cold sweat. “You can’t win...you never even had a chance to begin with. But you keep getting up. Are you making fun of me? Are you...making fun of ME?

“Heh, maybe... Then again, ya don’t need my help to prove that you’re a complete joke. I mean, ya can’t even...knock out someone you say is so much weaker than yourself. Some “higher power” you turned out to be,” he continued to gode him, despite huffing between every other word.

“Y-yooouu! You’re really trying my patience...! Tanaka can wait... Right now, I’m going to beat you so bad, you won’t be able to stand... No, you won’t even be able to speak!” He declared, bolting forward.

And thus, accepting what was coming to him, Reito flashed another smile coupled with a directed towards his partner. In that single moment, she understood what he was trying to do. As he was showered with blows he could only dream of defending against, Evie nodded and wove multiple hand signs on her usable hand while electricity discharged from her body and surged around her.

Tochi, you know you can’t win…so you’re riling him up and making Gold focus his anger on you completely.... I’m sorry you have to take this much abuse...if I was stronger...I could’ve done it on my own... But if this is how it has to be, I’ll make sure that I beat him in your stead, I just need a few seconds, hold on…”

Gold punched Reito in the solar plexus, roundhouse kicked him in the face and chopped his throat, but even after the boy's face was starting to become disfigured from the bruises he gained, he still smirked.

“Gack! Y-ya know...what else...Eagle Eye?” he questioned in a raspy voice. “Ya said Meat tank isn’t fit for the Council and all, but when I walked through Kita’s gate and lazed my way through the day, he was right there gettin’ all wound up for the sake of the 4 of ya. Why didn’t you come at me?”

“Urggh! Shut up, already! I was training at the time, I could have dealt with you later!” Gold yelled as he raised Reito by the collar.

“So, in other words, he dropped everything he was doing just to stamp out a stain on the school reputation,” he confidently stated, clutching Gold’s hand, “compared to him, you’re a loser. It’s your sorry ass that doesn’t deserve the position ya have... He’s a way better man than you!”

That was all it took for Gold to slam him to the ground and pummel him once more. He couldn’t even block, and each punch weighed on him more and more.

Chikara smiled “Usodachi...”

“As for me..I’m just- Guh! ...I-I’m just a black cat who only brings bad luck to myself. I’ve been technically struck by lightning for the fir- Gaah! F-first time, hurled through a buildin’, almost got assaulted by thugs again, and managed to piss off 3 of the strongest p-people in the first school. But even I can say...that I’m a better guy than you. You're just a control freak,” he explained as his forehead protector snapped off.

Out of nowhere, Gold was propped on his back, his nose smashed. Reito had found an opening through the blows and bashed his forehead into him.

“If I can’t use my arms...guess my head’ll do...”

A left hook from Kade shut Reito up and broke his nose, but he shrugged it off as blood poured from it.

Damn... Thought if I waved it off, I could take it, but this still hurts like hell! And if you’re ‘God’ as ya say, then I’m the Godslayer!” He stood up and ran toward Gold. “Now just watch me slug y-!”

He was swiftly jabbed in the body multiple times and forced away. During his flight, he thought to himself.

Damn it... Damn it... That was all I had. my throat’s messed up, and I can’t even lift a finger. Haha...man, that sucks. I just wanted to slug him one more time...but I’m done...

Gold was strong—a lot more than Reito. Had this been a one on one like He’d originally wanted, Reito would’ve lost in seconds.

Good thing I’ve got some insurance. Just end it already, ya short stack Kunoichi!

As he landed on the ground, Evie jolted up and placed a palm on Gold’s. All before she was promptly backfisted by him.

She put her hand to the ground and skidded across it.

“Tanaka...we’re finally ending this...? In that case I’ll-! ...Wha-?” Before he could act, electricity trickled from his back and ensnared him.

“Evie Style Lightning Release: Electro Trap!”

“Urrghh! Paralysis, again??!! Haven’t you learned?! The second I break free of this, I’m beating you to hell as well!”

“Threaten me all you want, it’s useless,” she said, her hair standing up along with a single raised hand in a “Ram” hand sign. “I had some time to prepare it, so you’ll be trapped for at least a minute!”

Gold went wide eyed. “Y-you, you’re just bluffing. This is one of your jokes...it has to be! Can’t you stop fooling around even when you're about to lose-!”

“I am serious, stupid. Even when I’m playing a prank, joking around or perving out, I’m always 100% serious. So let me tell you this seriously...from this point on...I refuse to be scared of you... On the contrary...right now,” she proclaimed as electricity surged around her and was released into the air, forming a disc-like shape, “you’re the one that should be scared of me!”

“From above!” Kade looked up towards inevitability. My Path is screaming, telling me to move out of the way...but I can’t! I won’t be able to dodge this!!

She brought her handsign down in front of her and closed her eyes with a slow exhale. “Evie Style Lightning Release 120 Volts Ultimate Technique: Heavenly Thunder Series,” she swiftly shot her hand towards to the sky and brought it down, “GIGAVOLT HAMMEEERR!!!”

At her command, a massive pillar of lightning came crashing down towards the boy, and in utter disbelief, he thought to himself. “No...did I...lose? They’re weaker than me...but still...!

He thought about what Reito said to him.

I thought if I stood above everyone else as a pillar of strength, I could become a King that made everyone feel secure, so that nothing beyond anyone's control would lead to a huge loss on their end...like it did me. Maybe what he said carried some weight. “I lost sight of myself...sorry, Pierce....”

He was engulfed by the pillar, causing a giant smokescreen.

Reito thought about Kade’s Power. Sure, ya have a good idea of what’s comin’ your way, but if ya end up predictin’ somethin’ ya can’t avoid, you’ve just gotta grit your teeth and eat it, while dreadin’ the impact.

His opinion of Gold didn’t change though, he was still what he would call ‘A ragin’ dick’.

Heh, just thinkin’ about him knowin’ he can’t avoid bein’ smacked...well, it’s pretty funny!

“That’s strong!” Shizuka gasped. She was holding that huge of an attack back?! Guess it does make sense though, you would need an open area for that sorta thing!”

The shroud cleared shortly afterward revealing 3 things. First: the one who launched the attack fell to her knees, slumped over. Secondly: the ground had been burned severely, turning it a deep chalkly black. And, lastly: Gold had went white eyed as smoke billowed out of his mouth. Burn marks covered his face as he finally fell unconscious.

The A.I. alerted the whole arena of the match’s end.

“With this, the team of Kade Gold and Forte Mayer is now unable to battle, the winners of this match are the team of Evie Tanaka and Reito Usodachi.”

Neigh crossed his arms. “Fa-ha-ha! Well there you have it folks!” His voice was heard across the stands. “They won, hands down, and as for the kid everyone deemed a cheater, I think he’s earned the right to be cut some slack. Trust me, I didn’t see any poison, hidden apparatus, or the like on him the entire fight. They came out on top, plain and simple!”

The crowd swelled with increasing applause for the two.

“THAT WAS AMAZING YOU TWO! YOUR TEAMWORK WAS REALLY A SIGHT TO SEE, YOU BEAT GOLD!!” Chikara cheered, not holding anything back.

“YOU REALLY ARE THE REAL DEAL, NICE MOVES USODACHI! YOU AS WELL Evie-SAN!”

“I THOUGHT HITTING HIM ONCE WAS IMPOSSIBLE, LET ALONE WINNING OUT OVER HIM, TANAKA, USODACHI, YOU REALLY ARE THE STRONGEST NINJA DUO!!”

“REI, EVIE! GOOD JOB STICKING IT TO THAT ASSHOLE!” Shizuka joined in.

Hearing the comments and applause grow louder around her, the small kunoichi shed a single tear. “Papa,” she mumbled.

I ran away from everything you wanted me to be, I never even had the guts to tell you how I actually wanted to live my life. This moment right here; no more. I won’t be scared, or run away anymore, no matter what it is. And one day...I’ll come home and give you a piece of my mind... By that time, I won’t just be cosplaying...I’ll be the strongest ninja around!

Evie made her way to Reito, crawling with a tear soaked face.

“Mf faths id tho thowdden thad idth hard two sthee. Hmm? Shdeth cwomin’ ova hwere? (My face is so swollen that it’s hard to see. Hmm? She’s comin’ over here?)” He mumbled, just barely being able to make her out by her hair and outfit color. Then all of a sudden, he felt a bit of weight on his chest.

So, even if you refuse to support me...it won’t matter one bit.

There was a point where she didn’t have many friends; where she felt she needed to latch onto her father’s approval.

It’s not just Mama, now, there’s Maestro, Shizu, Kara, and Tochi’s support, and that’s all I need to keep smiling. Thinking of you won’t get in the way of me being happy anymore... When I see you again, I’ll have a 10-yard smile plastered on my face.

“T-Tochi,” she clutched into his chest, burying her face in it.” Tochi...we won! T-thank you sh-sho m-muthhd! Waaaaah!”

Reito tried to pry himself away, but his lack of strength left him unable to. “FWEY, IB YWER GWNAA CWY, DONB’T DO IB OM MY MHEST! FWEY, I FWED TNOT, BEW! DEWOIODLY, FDT OFWA BE! (HEY, IF YOU’RE GONNA CRY, DON’T DO IT ON MY CHEST! HEY, I FEEL SNOT! GROSS! SERIOUSLY, GET OFF OF ME!)” He exclaimed incoherently.

But...just for r-right now... I’ll cry as much as I want.

Incoming medics pried her away from his person.

“Ms.Tanaka! I understand you’re happy, but we have to get him treated! Can someone pull from the other side?! Please?!” One of the medics pleaded.

Ugh, whatever...maybe I shouldn’t be such an ass to her. After all, it was her who did most of the work fightin’ that guy. So go on ahead and bawl your eyes out, Lightnin’ Bug...guess you’ve earned it.

“YOUR FIGHTING STYLE IS PRETTY COOL, BLACK CAT, LOOKING FORWARD TO SEEING MORE OF IT!”

“YOUR SYNERGY WITH THE [FULGUR SHADE] IS TOP NOTCH, SORRY FOR DOUBTING YOU BLACK CAT, YOU’RE REALLY SOMETHING!”

“FULGUR SHADE!”

“YAY! BLACK CAT!”

The hell-?! They mean me?! Why?! If they took anything from what I said, then it shoulda been Godslayer! What if this thing sticks?! OH MAN, WAIT! LEMME GO BACK IN TIME! I’ll TAKE THE BEATIN’ OVER AGAIN TOO, JUST LEMME STOP MYSELF FROM EVER MAKIN’ THAT BLACK CAT COMMENT! DAMN I-!

In the end, his body couldn’t take anymore and he passed out as they were both loaded onto hospital gurnees.