Almost done with Arc 1 now! And I still need to upload five or six chapters after this, lucky me -_-

Well, that shows me I should do this earlier XD

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Accidental Reverse Arc 1

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It's finally time for the match. Tenma, as he promised himself to do, trained. Having about three years of soccer experience and a lot of genius soccer friends, he's basically a genius himself when it comes to effective training menus.

While he can't say he enjoyed it, he knows it'll pay off, and that's all that matters.

'Now I just have to hope it's enough to last this match and help me keep control over my Keshin. And hopefully Yuuichi-san's attempt to confront Kyousuke will end with positive results.'

Tenma sighs as he pulls his bright yellow shirt over his head, his gaze landing on his left sleeve where he would usually see the familiar captain band. 'It's so weird, not wearing it after three years.'

''Listen up everyone,'' says Shindou suddenly, facing the room. The players look up at their captain, who has a determined expression on his face. ''We might not have completed Ultimate Thunder and Teikoku might be on a whole other level, but we won't give up. We will play to the best of our ability, with our real soccer, and we'll win!'' Raimon immediately agrees with his inspiring words and a few minutes later, they make their way to the field.

Just like the first time 'round, the stadium is packed. Teikoku's second team, with their white uniforms, are lined up on the side and Tenma has to admit it kind of reminds him of an army.

Soon after, they're in position and the brunet listens to the commentator commenting on Raimon's ten players. 'If everything goes well, it'll end with eleven.'

Raimon starts with the kickoff. Shindou takes the ball and quickly dribbles towards Teikoku's side of the field, but the captain of the opposing team runs forward to face him, together with their number 10. The wavy-haired player passes to Hamano and that's where it goes wrong.

All Raimon players are blocked and within seconds a pass is intercepted. Tenma watches in slight awe as Teikoku's players quickly and effectively pass to each other. Their captain (who's called Mikado by the commentator) receives the ball and breaks through Raimon's defenses like it's child's play, making his way to the goal.

He shoots and Sangoku jumps in the air. ''Burning Catch!'' he only just manages to stop the strong shoot.

The game resumes with Shindou using God's Baton. A white line shoots forward and the captain passes the ball to Tenma. The brunet jumps in the air, heading the ball to Kurama.

''Good one!'' yells the forward as he receives the ball and makes his way to the goal. Tenma blinks, a bit surprised. 'Was Kurama-senpai being nice to me?' he shakes his head to clear it of the distracting thoughts and continues running.

The forward tries to make a shoot but suddenly four of Teikoku's players are in the way, easily stopping it. They pass the ball to their forwards and midfielders, who quickly make their way to Raimon's goal but are stopped by the defense.

However, one of Teikoku's midfielders follows them and manages to pass the defense, grinning when Mikado passes him the ball.

Just as he closes in on the goal, another player clad in yellow and blue manages to steal the ball from him. 'Let's see if that stamina and speed training paid off after all,' Tenma can't help but think as he quickly jumps up, just managing to stop the ball before it leaves the field. 'Seems like it did.'

The brunet doesn't make an easy target of himself by waiting and instead quickly makes his way forwards, meanwhile scanning the field for any of his teammates.

'Damn, they're all too far away or blocked by Teikoku's players.' He narrows his eyes slightly. 'No matter, I'll just have to show why I've been Raimon's captain for three years.'

He continues to dribble towards the opponents' goal but is quickly intercepted by three of their midfielders. 'If these guys are here, then that means...'

A blur of yellow in the corner of his eye confirms his suspicion yet the brunet doesn't look away from Teikoku's midfielders. 'This move would've been easy if it were their older selves – we were so attuned to each other that we don't even have to think. Yet right now, we're still not used to each other's play. Furthermore, I'm not sure about their abilities right now – there's a big chance I won't get the timing right.'

Still, the time traveler knows he doesn't have a chance and so he just goes with it. Suddenly shooting the ball to the right without even looking that way, he sees how the opponents' expressions change to shock. Finally the brunet allows himself to see if he was successful in his attempt at blindly passing the ball.

A bit off, but still mostly on target. A surprised Hamano automatically takes the ball that landed only a few feet in front of him.

''And Matsukaze makes a pass without even looking!'' announces the commentator.

Even so, Teikoku's defense is still too strong and within minutes the ball is kicked over the sideline. Shindou gathers the team together. ''We have to try using Ultimate Thunder,'' he tells them grimly. ''It's our only chance.''

After a short moment of protest, Raimon's other players finally agree. Just as they make their way back to their positions, Hamano's voice attracts Tenma's attention. ''Tenma! Nice pass just now!''

The brunet blinks. ''Ah, thank you,'' he says, slightly surprised because he doesn't remember the other midfielder interacting with him much. ''I actually wasn't sure it would work...''

Hamano laughs. ''Still, nice!''

The game resumes much like it did the first time 'round, with failed attempts at Ultimate Thunder, interrupted passes and lowering confidence.

Once again, the ball is kicked over the sidelines and Raimon gathers to discuss their current situation. ''What do we do, Shindou?'' asks Kirino, his fists balled in frustration. ''Ten people just aren't enough to defend against a whole team, especially one of Teikoku's caliber.''

''Ultimate Thunder isn't working either,'' adds Hamano with a worried frown on his face.

Shindou grits his teeth. ''I know, but...'' he glances at the scoreboard, which still reads 0-0, and balls his fists. ''We're only just keeping them from scoring, but we won't be able to keep that up forever.''

Again the match resumes, with the same results as before. Tenma smiles slightly when Shinsuke finally manages to use his Full Throttle Jump but then focuses again, knowing that it will only get harder from this point on.

'If I remember correctly, Kurama-san tries to use Ultimate Thunder now, but was stopped by a Keshin. If Kurama-senpai is anything like him – which he is – this will follow the same lines...'

As Kurama tells Shindou he'll use Ultimate Thunder, Tenma keeps his eyes on the defender who he remembers using a Keshin.

Amagi passes the ball to the waiting forward and Tenma races over the field to reach them, already seeing the defender making his way forward. Kurama kicks the ball, fighting against the power, and Teikoku's defender grins as he stops running.

''No matter what you're planning to do, it's hopeless,'' he states, his smirk widening. ''Come out, Keshin!''

Raimon's time traveler can see how Kurama's eyes widen, but then quickly focuses on running. He has almost reached them when the defender's Keshin rises up behind him.

''Dragon Knight Tedis!''

Just as the large figure swings down his double sword, creating a large, greenish shockwave that would've blown Kurama away, Tenma manages to get in front of the third-year to take the hit.

Already weak from the agony that comes with a Keshin, he's too weak to do much to fight against the blast. He's easily thrown in the air and lands harshly on his side.

Pain.

The brunet gasps for air, struggling to move his limbs even though the- burning, agonizing, excruciating –pain is still raging through his veins. But it hurts so bad, much, much worse than the past few times and it's burning-freezing-hurting-excruciating-agonyagonyagonyagonyAGONY-

(It should've been better. He's been training to withstand and calm his raging Keshin, and it seemed to be working slightly, yet now it's hurtingburningfreezing and it hurts-

But maybe it's because he's been hit with a direct attack this time. When he was attacked by Tsurugi's Lancelot, it hurt a lot more than the other times- would direct exposure have a worse effect than just being in a Keshin's presence in general?

No matter the reason, it hurts and it burns and he wants it to end- why does it hurt so much- painhurtagony –he only wants it to STOP-)

Hurt.

Pain.

Agony.

The time traveler forces his eyes to open, his vision blurry and the raging agony turning into dull, aching stings. He grits his teeth against the more-bearable-yet-still-pretty-damn-painful pain and moves into a sitting position, trying to watch what happened while he was having his little 'episode'.

It seems Kurama didn't manage to perfect Ultimate Thunder after all, even though he came pretty damn close.

At least Raimon's still in possession of the ball, which is something despite the fact it will probably be stolen in the next two minutes.

And it seems none of his damned teammates payed enough attention to notice what happened to him-

Again.

How much more obvious can he make it?!

Scream and have a seizure?!

Seriously, even Sangoku, who knows something is wrong with him, doesn't seem to have noticed a thing.

How oblivious can someone be? Let alone a whole team?!

Tenma scowls and stands up, his legs shaking from exhaustion, and watches in frustration as Teikoku uses their Emperor Penguin 7, knocking Shinsuke out of the way and breaking through Sangoku's Burning Catch.

(Okay, so maybe that's why Sangoku didn't notice.)

The brunet frowns as Teikoku pulls hissatsu technique after hissatsu technique, easily stealing the ball from Raimon. Their passes are fast and their plays are ruthless, especially from the four Seeds. Raimon is quickly exhausted by trying to keep up with their opponent.

'Yuuichi-san... it would be a really good timing to send Tsurugi before the second half starts!' Tenma can't help but think as he wipes his brow and continues running.

Shindou, who has the ball, is intercepted by the Keshin user from before. The captain narrows his eyes as a cloud of purple energy rises up behind him. ''Instrumentalist Maestro!''

Tenma braces himself for the familiar agony, but is surprised when it doesn't come. Instead, he's surrounded by warm and soothing waves of soft energy. It doesn't hurt at all – it actually makes him feel better. It washes away the lingering ache in his body from the Teikoku Keshin and he can feel the exhaustion from the match fade away, replaced with soothing energy.

'What the- what's going on?' he can't help but ask himself as his mind goes in overdrive, trying to figure out the new development. His eyes widen when realization dawns on him.

Due to a... lack of aggression from Maestro against him, and the knowledge that Shindou is a friend, Pegasus Arc must've recognized the other Keshin as a friend. Instead of fighting the energy that Maestro gives off, Pegasus Arc is now embracing it and... allying with it, so to say.

'So instead of Maestro hurting me... it's actually helping me?' Tenma wonders, very awed. 'No matter how many years pass, I'm still learning new things about Keshin! Soccer really is wonderful... not to mention, last time Tsurugi used Lancelot it already hurt a bit less. Does that mean Pegasus Arc is also... warming up, for the lack of a better word, to Lancelot?'

Well, at least he's got something to look forward to.

But then the Teikoku player calls forth his Keshin. ''Dragon Knight Tedis!''

The brunet grits his teeth as another wave of energy, offending this time, crashes over him, unlike the gentle waves of Maestro.

It hurts but he manages to keep standing due to the warm and soothing energy from Maestro. The time traveler grits his teeth against the pain yet manages to keep his eyes open (this time without black spots filling his vision) to see what happens.

Shindou and the Teikoku player fight for dominance for a moment, until both Keshin dissolve and the ball flies to the side. Tenma narrows his eyes and sprints after it, already seeing Teikoku's captain racing towards it as well. 'If he gets it, he'll definitely score with his Keshin.'

Tenma can already see the grin on the captain's face as he almost reaches the ball, no doubt certain of the second goal in Teikoku's favor.

What said captain didn't expect, however, is the sudden blur speeding past him, almost like the wind. Said blur is a mix of yellow, blue and brown and gracefully slides in front of and past the Teikoku player, taking the ball with him. ''Passing through!'' he says just as he passes the captain.

The time traveler smirks as he leaves Teikoku's captain behind him. 'My extra practice really payed off.' It has already saved Raimon from a nasty situation twice this match. 'Not to mention, part of my resistance against offending Keshin energy comes from my body being stronger now.'

Still, he knows that without Tsurugi, Raimon can't possibly win against Teikoku. One look at his teammates tells him how exhausted they already are from the defending they have to do against their opponents.

'Yuuichi-san, I really hope you can get through Tsurugi's thick skull!' Tenma swirls around another Teikoku midfielder, going on auto pilot now as his thoughts are racing through his mind. Absentmindedly he taps the ball into the air, passes one of Teikoku's defenders, and easily continues his run when the ball lands in front of him without breaking pace once.

He sees a flash of movement out of the corner of his eye and jumps without thinking, avoiding the sliding like it's child's play and then continues on his run. 'Whoops, maybe I'm being a bit too good now... better tone down the dribbling.' After all, he's still trying to hide his real dribbling talents. 'Besides, the first half ends in about three minutes and it's still 1-0. Not to mention, I'm almost on the other side of the field. Bringing the ball to the other side will take about two minutes and that's without counting Raimon's resistance.'

So the next time a Teikoku defender tries to stop him, he fakes a stumble. The other player quickly uses this chance (or at least, that's what he thinks) to knock the brunet to the side and steal the ball.

Tenma regains his balance as if it's nothing and turns around to chase the ball again, not fazed in the slightest.

As predicted, Teikoku manages to reach Raimon's half quickly. Their captain has the ball and prepares to call forth his Keshin, a blueish black cloud forming behind him, when suddenly a bright yellow and blue blur makes a sliding to steal the ball.

The captain's eyes widen as the ball is literally stolen right from under his nose, the thief grinning up at him with a quick little shout of, ''Hi!''

Tenma's grin widens at the shocked expression from the Keshin user. Just when the shock turns to anger, two whistles echo over the field.

''And that's the end of the first half!''

The time traveler's grin shrinks to a satisfied smile. '1-0, not too bad. I think it was 2-0 the first time 'round? So this isn't too bad. It all depends on Yuuichi-san and Tsurugi now.'

He joins his teammates at the bench. Said teammates are all looking down, (mostly) literally and figuratively. Not paying them any attention, Tenma immediately walks towards his bag and grabs his phone.

''Tenma? What are you doing?''

The brunet glances up to see Shindou looking at him curiously. Then he turns back to his phone, scrolling through his contact list. ''Blackmailing,'' he mutters absentmindedly.

''What.'' Kurama joins the conversation with that statement and the time traveler glances at him. The forward seems frustrated yet also disbelievingly curious. ''You're blackmailing someone,'' he repeats with a perfect poker face.

(Must've spent too much time in coach Kudou's presence.)

Tenma shrugs. ''Kinda. Does it count as blackmailing if it's not against the person's will?'' he muses out loud. ''Because technically, I'm trying to change someone's view so that they'll do something willingly, without finding out I had a hand in this. Would that still be labeled as blackmailing or just gently nudging in the right direction?''

From the corner of his eyes he can see how his teammates share dubious looks but he doesn't pay them attention any longer as he deals Yuuichi's number.

Not even five seconds later, the older Tsurugi sibling answers. ''Tenma-kun,'' he greets and Tenma tries to decipher his tone for any possible clues, yet it doesn't give any clear hints.

''Yuuichi-san,'' he greets in return. ''I don't have much time so I'll cut right to the point. Is our blackmailing-slash-influencing-viewpoint-because-your-brother's-being-a-real-pain-right-now mission going well or not?'' he asks without pause.

The young man chuckles softly. ''Well, that's one way to put it, I guess,'' he mutters and then takes a deep breath before answering. ''I overheard Kyousuke and a man from Fifth Sector talking, so I used that as my clue to confront him. It went along the lines of 'did I ever ask you to fix my legs', 'is this how much you care for our soccer' and 'get out and get your priorities straight', together with a mix of acting and well-played emotional breakdowns. Point in case, Kyousuke left the room and looked really hesitant and confused so I don't know what he's going to do now,'' says the elder without missing a beat. 'By the way, nice moves against Teikoku's captain just now.'

Tenma beams. ''Thank you!'' then he sobers down a bit. ''Okay, so we can't be sure where he is now... but, considering he's been hesitating before and I've been botheri-'' the brunet coughs to avoid finishing, ''-um, I mean, trying to convince him to stop being a bad guy and you're practically the person he cares about most in this world... huh, guess we didn't do too badly,'' he muses out loud. Then a thought hits him. ''Wait. Did you cry?''

Yuuichi seems confused but answer anyway. ''Um... yeah. That's what I meant with 'well-played emotional breakdowns'.'' Then he turns defensive. ''And no, I did not break down on purpose. I just made sure the timing was just right.''

The time traveler stills, slightly shocked about how... devious his best friend's brother's past self is. ''Wow... okay. Remind me to call you when I want something from your brother,'' he mutters, smiling genuinely when he hears the other's laugh and promise of 'will do'. Then he turns back to the matter at hand. ''Still, that's actually a good thing. Tsu-chan cares about you a lot and will hate to see you cry.''

Yuuichi sighs in relief. ''Well, that's good. I... I'm sorry for not being more of a help,'' he mutters softly. ''I feel like I don't even know my own brother anymore.''

''No,'' states the time traveler firmly. ''This was not your fault so don't start blaming yourself. And Tsu-chan... he's still himself, he's just lost his way,'' he says without a hint of doubt. ''I promise you, everything will work out somehow. I'll make sure of it.''

''Tenma-kun...'' Yuuichi's voice wavers a bit but then his resolve his back, stronger than before. ''Okay. I'll just keep watching the match from here. Just... just do your best, okay? Win.''

The brunet nods, not caring the other can't see him. He looks at his teammates, who have been eavesdropping on his conversation – he noticed, of course, but he didn't really care. Now, however, he keeps his eyes locked on them even as he answers. ''I promise you, Yuuichi-san, we will win. Teikoku doesn't stand a chance against us.'' Raimon's players can swear his eyes are glowing blue. ''We will win.''

The conviction in his voice is impossible to miss and his teammates look astonished at his certainty. Yuuichi, however, answers and the time traveler can hear the smile in his voice. ''Okay, I'm counting on it. Goodbye, Tenma-kun.''

''Bye.'' With that he ends the call and puts his phone back in his bag, feeling the eyes of his friends on his back.

He doesn't mind them, however, and grabs a water bottle. They'll break eventually and he'll just make himself comfortable until that happens.

Shindou is, unsurprisingly, the one to question him first. ''Well, did the blackmail attempt work?'' he asks dryly.

Tenma glances at him. ''Not blackmail attempt. Gently-nudging-in-the-right-direction attempt, yes. Set-someone's-priorities-straight, probably. Getting-Tsu-chan-to-finally-get-his-ass-over-here-excuse-the-language, possibly.'' He takes a sip of his water.

Kurama is the next one to join the conversation. Unsurprisingly. Surprisingly. Well, it really depends on if you're surprised by the fact he's being civil or not. Which Tenma is. Kind of. He has some other things on his mind right now, but otherwise he'd be surprised. He'd be shocked. He'd be astounded- you get the point.

''So... who're you trying to bla-'' at Tenma's glare he decides on another word, ''-um, nudge in the right direction, anyway?''

The time traveler tilts his head, contemplating if it's a good idea to tell them or not. On one hand, they'd probably freak out, don't believe him, wonder how he'd managed to do that, wonder why he'd do that, accuse him of being a stalker, etc. On the other hand, they'd... um... they would... will... believe Tsurugi easier?

Probably not.

Tell them? 'Nope. Bad idea. Bad.'

The brunet just grins brightly. ''Oh, it's nothing to concern yourself abo-'' he cuts himself off right there, because actually... it does concern them. He adopts a thoughtful expression. ''Wait. It actually does concern you guys...'' he mutters, loud enough for everyone to hear. ''Do I have any other reasons not to tell you? Hm... you'd think I'm crazy, but you already think that... you'd be angry? But you're always angry with me, no real difference there... um, you'll accuse me of being a stalker while I have a perfectly legit reason that does not make me a stalker but I can't tell you because... well, let's leave the details out. Any other reasons?''

Everyone watches his thought process with different levels of fascination, reigning from speechlessness to staring blankly at him.

Even so, he continues, actually kind of liking this game. ''Huh... well, the stalker reason sounds legit to me. And I don't want to deal with pissed teammates. Or scared, confused, curious teammates, because that's just too much trouble to deal with.'' Then his face lights up. ''On another note, I just don't feel like it!'' he grins brightly at them. ''So I'm afraid I really won't tell you, sorry, nope, no can do, nay, negative, veto, out of the question, not for all the swimming cupcakes in the world, not a cat's chance, go fish, why Heavens no, I shall not, frankly my dear no, I will sit this one out, I find the idea undesirable, a yes would be the slow withering death of my soul, regrettably I'm not able to due to higher circumstances, it's that time of the year when I must say no, I cannot commit, I only provide an answer to very select questions and unfortunately this one doesn't meet my criteria, I shall call upon my right of silence... I think you get the idea?''

He looks at his teammates with a bright grin. They stare back silently.

Eventually, Hamano breaks it. '''I find the idea undesirable'?'' he repeats curiously. The brunet shrugs and he raises his eyebrows. '''A yes would be the slow withering death of my soul'?''

The time traveler shrugs. ''I personally like the 'I shall call upon my right of silence' best, but pick whichever one you want.''

And then they are suddenly interrupted by another voice, this one fierce and determined. ''Put me on!''

Everyone turns around to see Tsurugi standing there. While his teammates freeze in shock, Tenma grins and cheers. ''Yay! I knew you'd come around!'' he turns around at his teammates. ''To everyone who thought I was crazy for bothering with Tsurugi, now's the right time to say this.'' He takes a deep breath and points at them with a loud shout of, ''HA! I told you so!''

He then turns back to Tsurugi, his grin shrinking to a warm, genuine smile, emotions pouring into his eyes- TrustWarmthGratefulnessHappinessReliefHonesty –and after a moment of hesitation, the forward hesitantly smiles back.

Tenma allows himself to relax slightly at that and turns around to face his teammates, suddenly a stern look on his face. ''And to anyone who might be opposed to this idea, probably for the reason that he was a Seed before who hurt all of us and didn't show up for practice, let me say this.'' His eyes narrow to a slight glare.

''Remember Tsurugi's plays. He loves soccer as much as the next guy on this team. He wouldn't be able to play like that if he didn't.''

Kurama's piercing voice breaks through the silence that follows. ''He's the one who's been giving us a hard time ever since he joined the team and he never showed up for practice,'' he states, challenging Tenma with his eyes. ''And you still trust him?''

The brunet really can't help it. He snorts. ''Oh please,'' he says before he can stop himself. ''It's not like he's done anything worse than you guys.'' The brunet rolls his eyes. ''Seriously. Shindou-senpai beat me up and seemed to hate me, Kurama-senpai still hates me as far as I know and the other senpai couldn't stand me- still can't stand me,'' he corrects himself. Then looks at the keeper. ''Except San-san. But that's why he's in first place on my 'awesomeness-of-the-senpai' list. Not to mention, he invited me to dinner. Which was very, very awesome and very, very tasty. Point in case, San-san's awesome.''

The keeper smiles slightly at his flattery even if Tenma meant every word of it (because honestly, his other teammates are assholes. But, he has to admit, they're getting better). He looks at the other senpai and decides to go for the killing blow before they can interrupt him. ''Not to mention, I remember you guys skipping practice as well. You only came around during our last match. And Tsurugi's an ex-Seed, you can't really expect him to suddenly betray Fifth Sector like that. So don't you dare complain or I will convince you the hard way.'' Then he smiles sweetly at them.

Tsurugi next to him gives a start and the brunet glances at him. ''You- you called me an ex-Seed,'' says the forward, hesitating and very startled.

The time traveler rolls his eyes. ''Well, I could always call you a Seedling if you want.'' He blinks in surprise at his own words. ''Hey, that's a good one. Should've come up with it earlier,'' he mutters to himself. Then he turns back to his teammates. ''But back to the point. Any complaints?''

For a moment everyone is silent but then Shindou steps forward. ''I believe in Tsurugi.'' He smiles at Tenma. ''I hate to admit it, but your weird logic is actually correct.''

Shinsuke nods. ''Yeah.''

The next one to agree is Sangoku, followed by Hayami, Hamano, Amagi, Kurumada, Kirino- basically the whole team. And then, of course, Kurama, who tsk'es. ''Fine then. We're missing a player anyway.''

Endou grins and then turns to the Seedling. ''Tsurugi, you're on.''

''Hai,'' answers Tsurugi, his voice not loud at all but his eyes shining with an orange fire.

Tenma smiles at him. ''Well, I made a promise I'd win this match, so you better help me with it!'' he jokes (actually, he doesn't joke, because he did promise Yuuichi to win and he's planning to keep that promise) and then turns serious as he faces his teammates – all of his teammates. ''But seriously, we better win because I want ramen afterwards.''

Raimon's players grin, all fired up for the match again. A few minutes later Tsurugi returns, clad in Raimon's bright yellow and blue uniform, and just then the whistle rings for the second half to start. Tenma waits a moment until Tsurugi catches up with him. ''Tsu-chan,'' he says, catching the attention of the Seedling. Said Seedling looks at him, this time no annoyance at the nickname. ''Please do try to get along with everyone and refrain from being mean by keeping the ball all to yourself, okay?'' he smiles brightly at the forward.

Said forward returns his smile, albeit a little hesitant. ''I'll try.'' With that they take their positions.

''The score was 1-0 at the end of the first half, with Teikoku in the lead!'' calls the commentator. ''Oh, and Tsurugi makes his appearance now! Raimon has finally eleven players on the field! And now, the second half starts! Which team will proceed to Holy Road's Kanto block prelim finals?''

And then the whistle sounds.

Tsurugi's presence immediately makes a difference to the game. Within seconds he steals the ball from Teikoku's forward, and dribbles forward.

Shindou and Kurama follow him. ''Kurama, you make the finishing shoot,'' orders the captain and then raises his voice so that their other forward can hear it. ''Tsurugi, you know how it goes, right?''

''Yeah!'' yells Tsurugi back.

It might not have been his best idea, but Tenma honestly can't help himself. ''See, more proof that you're a stalker!'' when some of the other players – teammates and opponents – pause for a moment to stare at him, the brunet just smiles innocently.

Shindou is not one of those who turns to stare. Instead, he rolls his eyes (yes, Tenma might not be in the range to see it, but he knows. He just knows it). ''Tenma, not the time!'' he calls out over the field, obviously not caring who hears him fight (read: bicker) with his time traveling teammate.

Said time traveling teammate is aware he should probably not continue but he's always been stubborn. ''DQE-senpai, there's always time for annoying my teammates!'' he calls back.

If he was closer to the game maker, Tenma is sure he'd see a tick mark on said game maker's face as he responds. ''I said no so that means no!''

''Eh, senpai is a bully!'' yells the brunet back.

He's really pissing of the playmaker now. ''No, I am the captain so you should follow my orders! And I am ordering you to shut up or else!''

You know, the downside of having a pissed off time traveler in your midst is that he will take every single chance to annoy you as hell, no matter the timing. So, being a pissed off time traveler himself, that's exactly what Tenma does. ''COACH! Shindou-senpai is misusing his authority to tyrannize me! I call for another captain!''

He can see Endou facepalm all the way from the other side of the field.

He can also see the flames rising up behind Shindou. Unfortunately for the game maker, Kirino decides to interfere. ''Shindou, calm down! Tenma, shut up!''

Tenma fakes innocence. ''Why?''

Kirino is probably gritting his teeth right about now. ''We're in the middle of a match here!''

''So what? Not like it ever stopped us before from having genius revelations of our hearts' desires! And I can't even defend my right as a member of the soccer club!''

Kurama joins the conversation there. ''Sangoku, you say something! You're the only one he listens to!''

Fortunately for the rest of Raimon, Sangoku decides to follow Kurama's advice. ''Alright Tenma, that's enough!''

The brunet rolls his eyes but resigns to his fate. ''Fiiiiiiiiine! But know that the more you use that card, the less likely I am to listen to it!''

Sangoku sighs exasperatedly. Tenma just knows it. ''Just focus on the match!''

''Hai~!''

Unsurprisingly, Ultimate Thunder fails. Again.

Tsurugi manages to handle the power of the shot, yet before it reaches the opponents, the energy dissolves. Every. Single. Time.

Tenma frowns as he sees the Seedling's slow reaction time. 'He's hesitating again... guess I need to set him straight again.'

''What's wrong, Tsu-chan?'' he asks as he passes Tsurugi to steal the ball from one of Teikoku's Keshin users. ''You're not being honest with soccer, with us or with yourself! And that's- that's making everything, especially you, cry!''

(Hopefully the 'cry' part will remind him of his brother and shake him awake.)

And he's right, for Tsurugi's eyes light up in shock and realization. He allows himself a small smile as their eyes lock. ''Now go and show them why you're our ace.''

The forward returns the smile with his one of his own, laced with confidence, trust and gratefulness. ''Got it.'' And with that he races forward, faster than any of the Teikoku players have moved during the entire match. 'Yeah, I think we'll be fine.'

Within seconds he steals the ball from one of Teikoku's Seeds and passes. ''Shindou!'' there's not a single trace of doubt in his movements anymore.

The captain nods, clearly seeing the change in the Seedling as he accepts the pass. ''Let's go, everyone!''

Tsurugi sprints forward and Shindou starts the routine for Ultimate Thunder. ''Hayami!''

The maroon-haired boy kicks it towards the next. ''Kirino-kun!''

Kirino waits and kicks the ball just when it reaches him. ''Amagi-san!''

The third-year shoots it towards Tsurugi, who has almost made it to his position. ''Here we go!''

The Seedling turns around just as the ball reaches him and kicks it. Even from his position on the other side of the field, Tenma can see how hard the kick is as the navy-haired forward fights against the force of the ball. ''Ultimate Thunder! Take this!''

It flies over the field, landing in the middle of Teikoku's defense. The two defenders fight against the overwhelming force but are blown away, landing harshly on the ground.

'Eh, this is where I made my first goal,' Tenma realizes. Then he smiles as he sees Shinsuke moving towards the ball. 'No matter. I think he deserves it more than I do. Besides, I've been so focused on getting my body into shape that I haven't practiced hissatsu techniques yet, and while I technically could use Mach Wind at this point in time, I do not want to risk it.'

The ball shoots upwards, away from the ground where it was harshly spinning just a moment ago and into the air. Shinsuke runs forward and jumps, propelling himself into the sky until he's above the ball. He lands on it with both his feet and the ball seems to absorb yellowish energy, until it starts glowing a bright gold. Then it shoots away, in the direction of the goal. ''Full Throttle Jump!''

Teikoku's keeper jumps up and stretches, his hands surrounded by a bright, orange-ish light. Then he dives towards the ground and slams his hands on the ball, fighting against the shot. ''Power Spike!''

Unfortunately for him and fortunately for Raimon, the shot is to strong and the keeper is blasted to the side as the ball hits the net of the goal.

''Goal!'' calls the commentator as Shinsuke lands on the ground.

''I did it?'' he mutters in disbelief. ''I scored...''

''Nishizono Shinsuke's first official goal brings the score to a tie!''

Tenma honestly can't help himself as he jumps on Shinsuke in a hug. ''You did it!'' he laughs, not able to fight the happiness when he sees the smaller boy's bright grin. ''You really did it, Shinsuke!''

Soon the rest of Raimon comes to congratulate the defender and Tenma turns to Tsurugi with a warm smile. ''I knew you could do it,'' he says softly so that only the forward can hear it.

The Seedling blinks in surprise. Then his gaze softens and he smiles back. ''You never had a doubt, did you?''

The time traveler grins. ''Well, it was touch-and-go there for a moment, but I knew you'd come around eventually.'' He shrugs nonchalantly. ''Honestly, I can read you like an open book.''

The forward snorts in amusement. ''Aha. That's why you kept bothering me?''

Tenma looks thoughtful for a moment. ''Like I said, Stalker-san. I knew it was just the start of a beautiful friendship!'' he winks teasingly. ''Don't worry, you'll get used to me eventually.''

Tsurugi's eye twitches as the nickname but his amused smile doesn't leave his face. ''Unfortunately,'' he mutters teasingly, just loud enough for the brunet to hear.

Said brunet fakes a scowl. ''Hey! I heard that!''

''That was the point!'' calls Tsurugi over his shoulder as he makes his way to his position. The time traveler laughs softly. 'Good to have you back, Kyou.'

All the Seeds from Teikoku move back to their side of the field, obviously in an attempt to strengthen their defense. Tenma frowns when he sees it. 'Damn, this probably means that there are going to be more Keshin now.'

Shindou steals the ball from Teikoku. ''Come on guys!'' he yells as he moves towards Raimon's side. ''We'll win!''

''And our...'' starts Hamano, more determined than he's been before (at least, at this point in time).

''Soccer...'' continues Kirino, no trace of doubt in his voice.

''We'll protect it!'' yells Amagi, resolve burning in his eyes.

The rest of Raimon continues together. ''No matter what...''

'My cue to finish it!' Tenma grins. ''We'll win! And go for ramen afterwards!''

All of Raimon sweatdrops. Seriously. All of them. ''Way to ruin the moment!'' yells Hamano jokingly.

The brunet shrugs cheekily. ''That's what I do best! And seriously, I'm hungry!''

''And Raimon is discussing their lunch plans in the middle of a match!'' Tenma can't really decide if the commentator is amused or exasperated. Probably both.

Meanwhile, Raimon gets in position again for their hissatsu tactic and Shindou shoots the ball to Hayami, who shoots it to Kirino, who kicks it to Amagi, who finally kicks it to Tsurugi.

The Seedling turns around and kicks the ball harshly. ''Ultimate Thunder!'' it lands in the middle of eight of Teikoku's players, who have moved back to defend their goal. It easily blasts aside all of the normal players. The Seeds hold on a little longer but are forced backwards by the pressure a few seconds later.

Shindou is the one who gets the ball and he quickly sprints forward, determined to make a goal. Seeing as Teikoku is still recovering from the effects of Ultimate Thunder, the game maker can easily make his way to the opponent's side of the field.

Teikoku's captain manages to intercept him quicker than his teammates, calling his Keshin forth. The blueish black cloud of energy takes the shape of a black bird with hints of yellow and blue. ''Black Wing Raven!''

Tenma gasps at the sudden, painful rush of energy and is about to stumble to his knees when another wave of energy, this one warm and comforting, spreads over the field and surrounds him. It fights of the cold offensive energy from Raven and takes away his exhaustion.

The brunet scans the field for the source and his eyes land on Shindou, just in time to see the blueish black cloud take form. ''Instrumentalist Maestro!''

Raven is still hurting him but with Maestro's help, he manages to withstand it for the most part, turning the torturous agony into dull pulses of pain instead. Not great, but definitely better.

Both captains kick the ball and within a few moments, Maestro pushes past Raven and Teikoku's captain is blown to the side. The game maker starts running towards Teikoku's goal again.

''Shindou blows past Mikado!''

'Huh, so that's his name.'

''Tsurugi!'' Raimon's captain passes to the Seedling.

Said Seedling kicks the ball and it starts spinning quickly. Then he kicks it again (while making a... backflip in the process?) and a mix of red, blue and purple energy surrounds it. Lightning-shaped patterns form around it in a circle form as Tsurugi kicks it. ''Death Drop!''

The ball spins harshly and flies towards the goal. Teikoku's keeper jumps up, his hands glowing with energy. He dives to the ground and slams his hands against the ball. ''Power Spike!'' It doesn't even take two seconds before he's thrown aside by the force of the shot, the ball flying in the goal.

''Goal! And Raimon finally takes the lead!'' three whistles ring out over the field. ''And that's the end of the game! The ones to continue onto the Holy Road's Kanto block district prelim finals is Raimon!''

Raimon's team cheers loudly at their win. Tenma watches as Tsurugi walks a bit away from the rest of the yellow clad players, smiling at the scoreboard. The brunet quietly walks up next to him. ''Not bad for an outdated team, huh?'' he jokes.

The forward's smile widens in amusement. ''Turns out, Raimon didn't need replacing after all,'' he admits.

Tenma grins cheekily. ''Could've told you that without all the drama,'' he comments mischievously and the other rolls his eyes good-naturally. ''You know, I like this you a lot better,'' continues the time traveler, his grin softening to a warm smile even as Tsurugi looks at him in surprise. ''You look a lot... happier.'' He nods at his diagnosis. ''Yeah, that's it. You look lighter.'' The brunet grins again. ''Which is good, by the way. Maybe you'll finally say goodbye to your stalkerish tendencies.''

The navy-haired striker groans. ''You are never going to let that go, are you?'' he asks even though he already knows the answer.

Tenma shakes his head mischievously. ''I find the idea undesirable.''

''What?''

The brunet waves it away. ''Ah, no matter. Anyway, good match.''

Tsurugi nods in agreement. ''Best so far.'' He holds up his hand for a high-five, which Tenma gladly returns as their teammates surround them. ''You know,'' says the forward softly so that only the brunet can hear him, ''I think I'll like it here.''

The time traveler doesn't vocally answer, but his blinding smile says it all.

  ~'0'~  

And that was that! I hope you guys enjoyed it :)

- Yara Meijer