Man of Iron ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ Kakuri Isle complex, Yokos Room How are you feeling? Li Ming gratefully received the wet towel from Yoko, though she could do nothing to move. It was placed against her forehead. She was warm there, not to mention a little bruised. As soon as it was settled, Yoko turned away from Li Mings bed and went toward a bucket by her feet. Yoko ripped up a towel from the bedside table, dabbed it in the warm water, then took it to Li Mings face, this time dabbing her cuts. Li Ming scowled a bit, the water had some form of disinfectant liquid in it (so it stung) but the Asagawa-girl remained firm in applying it. Li Ming shuffled under her covers a bit, managing to open her lips (as well as her eyes). Im feeling better Good. Yoko said simply. Yoko Li Ming turned her head to the side. W-What about your friend? Doesnt she need your support ? Yoko strained another towel. Jun? She might not look it, but shes very powerful. She can handle herself, dont you worry about that. I just I thought that you might prefer being with her. Why? Yoko shrugged. Youre the one whos injured. Li Ming squirmed in her bed again as Yoko applied that towel to one of the cuts on her face. When Yoko pulled away, Li Ming looked up at her. Yoko was so beautiful. Especially when she wasnt fighting. Just doing this, tending to a ex friend, made her seem special. Even though Li Ming had told Yoko that they should have nothing more to do with each other, she was still caring for the Chinese girl. Why the gods blessed her with Yokos friendship was something shed never know. Li Ming cast a sad look in Yokos direction. She must be very important to you. Who? Yoko said, straining that towel in the disinfected water. Jun, The other girl replied. From the way you two are with each other, I would have thought that she knew you as well as I do. Yoko shook her head. I dont know her that well. We only met less than a week ago. But she really is a good friend. I see. Yoko looked downwards at that expression that Li Ming was carrying. There was something strange about the way she was acting. Yoko would have expected her to keep talking about the match, but she was on about Jun. What did Jun have to do with any of this? Then it hit her. That bothers you, doesnt it? Yoko said irritably. What does? Yoko put down the towel. That Jun and I are friends. What, did you think time would stop for me when you left the Asagawa Facility? Did you think Id just sit around and cry my eyes out for you? No, of course not, Li Ming retorted. I just did not think that Oh, I bet you didnt. And now that were on the subject, why wont you tell me why you left in the first place? And why did you tell me that we couldnt be friends after we hadnt seen each other in so long? Li Ming huffed Do you have to know everything? Dont you think I deserve that much? Yoko asked back. A silence fell. Li Ming was the one who felt it the most though. She had been going through those answers in her head, over and over and over again. The one thing she never expected would be that she had to tell all this to Yoko. There was so much that Yoko was ignorant of, but it was for her own good, for the better for her. She wasnt in the same position as Li Ming was You do deserve answers, Li Ming finally said. Well? I left on that day, because, The Chinese woman just about managed to continue. My Uncle came to me and told me certain things. My parents they did not disappear as I had believed. They did not abandon me. They were killed Yoko gasped Oh, Li Ming Im so sorry It is fine. I accept it now. She replied. But then a new question arrived. If they were murdered who was it ? Li Ming scowled It was the KAIGA Group. They killed them they killed my parents. The KAIGA Group? Yoko repeated sceptically. The sponsors for the tournament? But why would they kill your parents? Werent they just ordinary farmers? Yes, my parents were farmers. But the KAIGA Group were not after money, or riches. They were looking for something very, very rare. Something called the Stone Egg. Yokos eyes blinked. Stone Egg? What on earth is that? I do not know. But it is something relevant to my past. And although I do not know how, I know that this Stone Egg is a part of my mission in life. My destiny Destiny? Youre not making sense, Li Ming. The girl in question smiled. It seemed radical for me too. When my Uncle told me that I had a destiny. But he is right. I do. I am one of the Eight Children of Gaia. I understand that you probably have no idea what that means. In truth, I have little understanding of it as well. But that was why I entered the tournament. I want answers. I have gotten past that part of me that wants revenge. I just want the truth. But I know that following this path is dangerous. That is why I dont want you involved, Yoko. Yoko lowered her head and smiled. You were just trying to protect me, yeah? Yes. It would have hurt a lot less if you told me that before. You make some very stupid decisions, Li Ming. But I like you for them. Li Ming brightened a little. You still like me? Of course I do, Yoko took that towel back in hands You were best friend, even if you did treat me like dirt Li Ming looked away again. I suppose you are right. The door then burst open as soon as Li Ming stopped talking. Both girls looked around to see what was happening, to see who that might have been, and they saw Jun. Jun stumbled into the room on weak knees, her clothing shredded and her black belt wrapped around her leg, obviously to keep a cut from bleeding. Yoko didnt have to ask this, but, What happened? Juns head drooped. I lost ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ Kakuri Isle complex, Training Gym, Elite Hrrrr raaah! Yelling a fierce cry of momentum, Yoko tore through each of the three grey cinderblocks, with her fist. A haze of dust rose up, that Yoko coughed against, but it didnt do anything to spoil the display of power that Yoko had put on for herself. It was a reassurance that she could handle anything that Xiangau might cast her way. But Yoko didnt feel satisfied with that. She felt that her aim was off, her power not enough, everything that she would have thought could be better, needed improvement. She just didnt feel satisfied with what she had to offer. And, from the looks of Jun, who could blame her? But, not all of her worry was down to her upcoming fight with Xiangau. She had even more concerns. Like the KAIGA Group, for instance. All those things that Li Ming had told her had struck Yoko deeply. To know that the sponsors behind this tournament had killed Li Mings parents just to get some rare item. All along, Yoko had thought that there was something wrong with the tournament. It all seemed so suspicious. For example, why did they host the God of Fighting Grand Championships in some remote island? There were only 32 competitors at the start of the tournament. And why had Yoko been invited? Sure, she was flattered, and sure, she was the daughter of Tsukasa Asagawa, but it still made no sense. There had to be some elaborate motive for hosting this tournament. And by the second, Yoko was getting more and more suspicious of the man who had organized the tournament Reinhalt Schwarzluft. The man behind the KAIGA Group and the God of Fighting Grand Championships. He had something to do with the death of Li Mings parents, she was sure of that, and Yoko was going to find out the connection as soon as the tournament was over Right now, she had to focus on winning the tournament. She intended to keep her promise and win the prize money for Bon Fau and his poor family in the Paoji Village It was the least she could do. 200,000 credits didnt appeal to Yoko, anyway. The situation with Li Ming had been resolved (for the most part) and although Jun was a little bruised, she was okay. All Yoko had to do right now was focus on the task at hand. Focus on Xiangau. Xiangau. He was such an odd young man. So cold and withdrawn, like he had been on his own all his life. But when it came to watching the fight between Li Ming and Yoko, he had developed a sort of fire in his golden eyes that Yoko could not describe. He was even giving Jun information about the techniques that Li Ming was using (according to Jun). Xiangau was obviously very knowledgeable when it came to martial arts. And, from the looks of Jun, very powerful in using them. Jun had said to Yoko that she couldnt determine what style he used, which worried Yoko, but excited her as well. She had a lust for fighting, even though it appeared differently at certain points. It would be a pleasure to fight Xiangau, though it would be a nightmare trying to figure out a way to beat him. Yoko stood up from the dusty cloud created by her strike. She collected the mashed pieces of rock from the ground, took them to the side of the room, and put them out of the way. Yoko then began clapping her hands to get rid of stray dust particles. While she was doing that, a strident figure walked into the gym. Yoko looked back at him. It was Xiangau. Dressed only a pair of black sweatpants (with the KAIGA logo along the leg, obviously handed to him by the company) he walked over to the padded training dummy on the other side of the gym. Yoko noticed that huge scar at the centre of his back. It was shaped like a rising dragon, and obviously was inflicted on him with severe pain. At that moment, Xiangau had not noticed Yoko He stood before the training dummy, and drew in breath. He released it, relaxing himself. Suddenly, huge flames of bright scarlet Chi burst from his tight, raw fists. The flames burned so brightly, they were almost bewitching in their beauty Yoko watched this with awe, still not announcing that she was in the room. Xiangau separated his feet, shifted his right shoulder forward, pulling back his left hand. The silver-haired boy roared with passion, Graaaaaaaaaah!! Engisansei!! And thrust his palm straight into the dummy. There was a huge flash of bright red light that filled the room, and Xiangaus hand destroyed the dummy. Not breaking it, but shattering it. The little hunks of wood were shot across the room, like shrapnel from a bomb blast. Yoko looked over at Xiangau and the dummy, only to see that what was left of it was a smoking stump. Xiangaus hands still glowed with bright red energy, his fingers trembling, but he didnt look the least bit tired. And in his face, there was no passion nor fire. It was like he felt no pride in his enormous power. Yoko was startled. The strength of this man was not to be underestimated. That Engisansei (Omen Blessing) technique of his was a Chi-infusion move. From what Jun said, he didnt use energy waves, but his Chi itself seemed so strong she would have to watch for that move. The girl finally decided to announce herself. That was pretty good Xiangau looked back, surprised. Its you. I didnt think anyone else was here. Well I am, Yoko began walking in his direction, saying, I heard that you gave Jun a really rough time of it The energy at Xiangaus hands began to fade. Is she injured? I didnt intend to hurt her. No, Jun is fine. Her pride is a bit bruised though, but all in all shell be back in fighting condition in no time. To be honest, Im more concerned with that little trick you just pulled off Xiangau smiled, the first time Yoko had seen that from him. The Engisansei? That is an ability I developed only a year ago. Chi-infusion is an ability that has fascinated me for a long time. I wanted to see if I could create a technique for myself. It still needs work, however. I wouldnt have said that. It looked very polished, if you ask me. Yoko replied. Xiangau just shook his head. It really does need work. But I have a deeper inspiration. If I can master Chi-infusion, it will bring me one step closer to achieving Fight Quintessence. Yoko blinked Fight Quintessence? What is that? I think it would be best to show you. Xiangau said Yoko nodded and watched Xiangau as he went to work. He walked over to another one of those training dummies, then told Yoko to watch closer. Xiangau drew back and kicked the dummy with a roundhouse that hit square on the side of the dummys head. Yoko was confused. Is that Fight Quintessence? She asked absently. Xiangau shook his head for a no. He then spread his legs, in a similar way as before. His fists gripped together, his breath became slower and slower, and it appeared that he was clearing his mind. Yoko continued to watch. Then sensed a surge in his Chi-flow Xiangaus golden eyes widened, his teeth gritted and his body shook. He then gave out another cry, Graaaaaaaaaah! And bright red flames of Chi surrounded his entire body. Yoko looked away, her eyes fragile to the brightening light of Xiangaus Chi, manifest in crimson flames. The dust on the ground made waves, pushing away from his feet, while changes began around his body. Though Yoko could not see them. The light dissolved when Xiangau stopped screaming, and Yoko looked back. She was shocked at what she saw His body had changed. His body was now far more muscled and broad. Streaks of red lightning passed up and down his limber legs and muscled chest. His golden eyes were glowing intensely, and ridges of his veins were now visible. His breathing was extremely heavy, his chest rising and falling, but aside from that, Xiangau had complete control over his altered body. Yoko was stunned. But that wasnt the only thing about this ability that was startling. Xiangau narrowed down on the dummy he had kicked before. He repeated the exact same action as before, but this time, his leg tore straight through the dummy in one motion. Yoko gasped as the upper half of the wooden dummy fell in a clump to the ground. Along with a couple splinters. The broad man looked over at Yoko, turning his head slowly. This Though he was brimming with strength, his voice sounded drawn and tired, as if he was under great strain. This is Fight Quintessence Yoko struggled with her awe. Whoa you increased your power how on earth did you do that? It follows the same principle as Chi-infusion Xiangau remarked. I suffuse my body with my Chi-flow, tightening limbs, joints and muscles. But the difference is, Fight Quintessence drains power from the Chi-flow continuously, whereas Chi-infusion techniques only require a sample of energy. I am trying to master this ability in such a way that I can maintain the power it gives me without it incessantly exhausting my Chi. What a radical move Yoko said, amazement in her voice. It has its drawbacks Xiangau supplied For one thing, the build up of muscles makes it harder to be agile in combat. If evasion is a key element in winning a certain battle, Fight Quintessence is completely useless. And it also requires great control if I lose focus for even a few seconds, my muscles could spasm due to the pressure. Fight Quintessence is as much about mental power as it is about physical power. Yoko had such a respect for this man. Youre already a master No Xiangau shook his head, looking down at his honed body. I still have a great distance to travel. My strength is still limited. And like I say, my techniques are still incomplete. If I am to become stronger, I must push myself to my ultimate limits And snatch the knowledge I gain from pushing myself that far. That must be why you entered the tournament. Again, Xiangau shook his head. I entered this particular tournament for other reasons. But you neednt concern yourself with that. I want you to focus on our match tomorrow. Yoko was sceptical. Me ? Yes, Xiangau smiled at Yoko again. Strangely, at that moment she wished he smiled more. It made him seem more accommodating. If Im certain gain one thing from this tournament, it will be the a battle with a worthy opponent. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ Kakuri Isle complex, No.1 Rooftop Jun looked over the edge of the railing. Kakuri Isle was really beautiful. From this height, she could see the jungle she had been fighting in for the past two days. They looked serene, and calm, especially during the current light provided by the full moon. Though it was a pitch black night, the moonlight reflecting off the wet leaves of those tropical trees was an astounding sight. Still, however, Jun was not eased in her heart. She couldnt believe that she lost. After making it all the way to the semi-finals. Jun was so looking forward to battling with Yoko in the finals. Now it wasnt happening. Xiangaus strength saw to that. He was such a powerful young man. Even Juns own teacher couldnt match up to him. It made Jun realize that she was still in need of improvement. After kicking so much ass in the fights leading up to the semi-finals, she wouldnt have believed that, but it was true. She still had a ways to go. Jun leaned her head over the railing and continued to watch the jungles below, listening to the sounds of the birds as they flapped to their nests. Until she heard footsteps Jun looked around to see who it was. Hey Jun. It was Yoko Hey. Yoko walked up to the railing and leaned on it, just as Jun had been doing. How are you feeling? Any better? Yup. She replied, But my ego is still pretty beaten up. But hey, what about you? Shouldnt you be fine tuning your moves for the fight tomorrow? Yoko nodded I did. I even saw Xiangau down there. I bet hes gloating his ass off, right? Jun asked sardonically. Actually Yoko corrected, Xiangau was quite humble about his victory over you. In fact he even asked me if you were okay. That had Jun confused. Really? But he seems so uncaring. I think thats just a shell. Yoko offered. Hes a bit of a loner, I guess. But hes so strong. His techniques are so amazing and impeccably designed. I know my grandfather would love to meet with Xiangau after this is all done. Jun sighed Im sure he would. Yeah. But Yoko drifted off. But what? Yoko looked at Jun deeply. I really dont think I can beat him, Jun. Youre not gonna give up are you?! Youve seen his power Yoko leaned up. No matter what he says, he is far more powerful than me. If he uses anything close to the abilities I saw him use downstairs, I dont have a prayer of a chance. Jun shook her red-haired mane from side to side. You cant give up, Yoko. Youve come so far in this thing. Youve made it all the way to the finals. You have a chance at winning the title of God of Fighting, not to mention all that money. Just win one more fight, one more, and its all yours. I guess Jun smiled, then wound her arm around Yokos shoulder. Hey, I really do believe in you. You can do this, Yoko. Just hang tough. And watch out for a move of his called Engisansei. It was the one that took me out. I will. Yoko lowered her head to Juns shoulder. Thank you, my friend.
Back to The Tokyo Dragons 1994: Rise of Gaia Index - Back to Original Fiction Shoujo-Ai Fanfiction