GWB05E

50. Chapter 5. Roy's game

The next morning, very early, the new NBA player got up. Bertie woke up too, they sharing breakfast while talked a little.

-Good. Today we have the last training before the game. I guess it will be shootout and some technical talk. - The guy guessed and asked. - Have not Tommy and Connie gotten up yet?

- They must be tired. - Bertie smiled remembering the nightly activities that would surely have delivered those two. - I think they had a lot of things to do. Ha, ha…

-You were very cruel,-  his interlocutor jokingly accused her. - Look at you. Leaving me alone yesterday.

- I wanted to see you later. But you had already fallen asleep. - The girl said, almost sounding like an apology. -

- Do not worry - he smiled now to tell - You know? Yesterday I dreamed with my parents.

- Really? Tell me, what did you dream? - Bertie asked. -

Roy looked up at the ceiling as if trying to remember something. He shrugged and could answer.

-I do not remember very well, it seems to me that now that I think of it, it was absurd. You know, little cube. Many times dreams are rare, but when you are in one of them does not seem to you. As far as I can remember, we were playing basketball. My father had put a basket or something. And I was playing against another guy. I do not know, I think he was my height, although I cannot remember his face. And my father encouraged me. He said something like that game was very important, then that guy and I played together but I do not remember against who. My mother was there, sitting with a shawl, in a few steps and applauding us. And I became a super saiyajin and scored a basket. It was very strange. There was a marker, but it was going backwards. It did not add up the points, it reduced them, and a sort of hooded man looked at a book. I could only think that he was the referee. And I did not want to make mistakes so that I would not be thrown out of the game ... - He could finish referring to his girlfriend who had heard him without making a single comment. -

-It's weird, - Beruche agreed and went on to comment. - Remember what we studied in the subject of psychology in our degree. Sometimes dreams can mean things. Others are simply the way our brain has to process information. Surely you've been thinking about it all these days. Your parents who instilled your love for basketball, the battles we have fought ...

- Yeah, that must be it. - He smiled nonchalantly as he finished and got up. - Well, I have to go now. I must not be late or I will create me a bad reputation since the very first day.

His girlfriend laughed, of course she knew what it was to be angry with Roy because of these delays. When her boyfriend finally left, she wished him luck with a kiss. They probably will not be seen until the match. Tom and Cooan woke up within minutes of he had gone. Both of them were annoyed that they could not give him encouragement before the big moment, but what could they do! Already they would cheer him up in the field. The others had remained in the city with Beruche, her sister, and Tom. When they met, they spent the morning strolling and making even more purchases. Then the Justicieras decided to practice a little to un rust their powers and their special costumes. The boys after lunch also decided to train in the afternoon in the uninhabited places that brought back memories of the fight against the demons. Diamond and Nephrite fought between them and Sapphire and Ail did the same. Tom watched their developments with obvious interest. His friends were very strong. Maybe not as much as Roy, but even so, each of them was a warrior powerful enough to successfully deal with the forces of evil.

-But that boy was a super saiyajin.- He thought now with more uneasiness. - And if he could not do anything ... But he's here, and when the time comes he'll join us. - He thought that with a greater dose of optimism.- Yes. And we are the warriors and the girls and myself. And above all, now they will not take us unaware.

In this way he was observing those evolutions of his friends, hoping and wishing that now things were very different from those of that apocalyptic future that Leval had unveiled to him. After a few minutes the boys stopped. Sapphire approached him and offered him with kindness.

-Do you want to train with us a little?

-No thanks, - Tom declined smiling a little and adding. - I'm not at your level.

-It's getting late, anyway. - Nephrite remarked that from afar he was now watching the girls who had also stopped practicing. -

-Yes. We'll have to shower and change clothes to see Roy. We would not forgive ourselves if we were late. - Ail smiled. -

- It would be funny. - He scolding us for delaying! - Sapphire laughed causing the others to imitate him.-

-Good. I would not want to miss it either. - Diamond intervened even smiling to assert. - So it will be necessary to be punctual.

The Nemesis prince also looked at the women, smiled again as he saw his fiancée laying a hand on Cooan's shoulder and chatting with the other girls. Then Tom asked.

-How are you? I mean Emerald and you.

-We are very happy. He retorted. - She is especially happy. She told me before we came that she wanted with all her heart to be accepted by the girls. She was afraid they would remember her unfriendly and distant.

-It's true that she has changed a lot, brother. Sapphire- Interrupted and unveiled him. - Petz had told me that she wanted to talk and see her. The truth is that the few times we have seen we were pleasantly surprised. I told her that Petz herself had a similar change when she stayed to live on Earth.

-It's as if everything bad we had inside once was gone. Fear, jealousy, unjustified hatred.  – Diamond sighed.- Especially those ridiculous cravings for power and revenge.

-I understand you very well, my friend. Nephrite solidly affirmed declaring in more introspective tone. - When I think about what it was like before ... I cannot believe it was true ...

-The warriors made us a very special gift. The one about their friendship, - Ail said.

- And then there were our teachers in Heaven and Roy who just showed us that everything is possible if we put our heart into it.- Sapphire added.-

-As we sang with Roy - Let's keep the faith. - Ail said.

-Yes, our friend is a very special type. He has had a great impact on our lives. - Tom could complete even thinking that his interlocutors could not even imagine the connotations of that reflection. Especially for the future. - And I'm sure he'll still have it.

-That's why we should go now.- Sapphire smiled palm down his brother's back. - We have to give him encouragement in the game.

- Sure. -  Diamond agreed with assertiveness. - I would not miss his debut.

-Yes. Let's go get the girls. – Nephrite told them -

And the boys went to join them. For their part, these as Justicieras, had been practicing something also the fight and their coordinated attacks. Before the astonished looks of Amanda who in the meantime chatted with Ann who cradled her little one. Among the fighters Emerald had to replace the absence of Karaberasu, but she proved to integrate well with her new companions. After launching some attacks not too potent the girls dedicated themselves to jump from one side to another and to dodge their respective blows. Then they tried to unite their powers as they had seen do to the warriors. Although that was more complicated than it seemed. They could not produce a combined attack, much less teleport. For now they let it be. In the end they ended up panting really tired.

-Oh, it's been a long time since I've had serious exercise. - Petz could say, trying to catch her breath. -

-Yes, - Bertie said. - It shows that the quiet life has left us a little out of shape.

-No way! - Cooan denied it, seemed more fresh than her sisters. - I think we're still doing very well. Especially Lady Emerald. - She said with admiration. -

They all remembered that their former chief of the Black Moon had been more powerful than any of them. In fact she had a level similar to that of Rubeus. And the most important thing for the sisters. When Emerald returned from the world of the dead they received her well. Yet they still looked at her with some prevention. They did not forget the years that they had passed under her command. But this girl was aware of that and the respectful tone that sometimes the sisters used to address her almost without realizing it. And she was very categorical when she told them.

-Listen to me, girls. - She smiled, laying a hand on Cooan's right shoulder. - That's all over. I mean calling me a Lady. I'm not that woman anymore. I would like to be your friend. Simply Emerald. I ask you, please. Neither Diamante nor I think it appropriate to have any special treatment. That was over when we started these new lives.

There were moments of silence somewhat uncomfortable, it was true that many times they had to meditate before addressing the prince as highness and even stop to not bow. Such was the custom acquired during all the years spent in his service. No one dared answer until Bertie broke that tense atmosphere with a casual tone when she declared even amused.

-Of course Roy does not mind. There is no day that they are not throwing jokes at each other.

- Diamond is very fond of your boyfriend. - Emerald confessed to her.- As the rest.

- You are right. – Petz intervened addressing the girl. - Our past lives no longer count here. Fortunately now we have the opportunity to create a much more hopeful future for everyone.

- Sure, girls. - Amanda said, almost as if apologizing for it, she added. - I do not know much about your previous lives but it is clear that, right now, you are great women. All of you.

- And we have the same teacher. - Annie said approaching with her baby as she added. - She believed in us and gave us another chance.

- And she turned us into a group of rightist fighters! - Exclaimed Cooan, extending her arm and opening her hand. -

Bertie put her hand over her sister's and Petz and Esmeralda followed her. It was Petz who told Nephrite's girlfriend and Ail's.

-What are you waiting for?

-I think that's your greeting from the group of Justicieras. - Ann smiled, holding her child. -

-And we are not. - Amanda added. - Besides, that place is reserved for your other sister.

The girls could not avoid a wave of longing at the memory of Karaberasu, the same Emerald looked at them somewhat distressed, although Bertie at once declared hopeful.

-They told me she's all right, that'll be enough for now. We shall see her again soon.

And the rest nodded, wishing it was true. At that moment the men arrived and together they went back to their respective hotels and accommodations. After the shower everyone put on their finery. (To his surprise, Tom told them that it was advisable to do it by going to the game wearing elegant suits and gowns.) It was getting dark when they chartered a group of taxis that took them to their destination. Nothing less than Madison Square Garden. They entered and occupied their localities, his friend had gotten very good, almost next to the bench and were just because they had been sixteen and they were seventeen. Good thing Roy himself did not need one!

- It must be admitted that the guy has worked hard to get some great locations! - Exclaimed Ail, recognizing this circumstance. - We're next to the players.

-These places are the most expensive.- Tom told them he still did not fully believe it. - Here are movie stars and important personalities.

-Do not hesitate, my friends.- Nephrite said jokingly. - But who can be more important than us?

-Look, for once I totally agree with you. - Diamond smiled. -

-I love it! - Exclaimed Emerald, searching the cameras with her eyes. - Here we are definitely going on TV, that does not come at all bad to me.

-Of course, you are really incredible, aren´t you!  Poor Roy there, nervous, hoping to make a debut, and you minding your own business. - Petz reproached them in a relaxed tone. -

-Look, guys. - Beruche caught the attention of all pointing to one of the entrances through which people already entered. The stands were still almost empty because it was early enough. But everyone was happy to see who they were. - There are Usagi and the others! Hey! We're here, she warned them, honking her hands. - Come and sit, this is going to start.

-Yeah, look. - Cooan announced. - The players are coming out.

-Okay. - Tom said. - It's just warming up, there's still ten minutes left. Who wants popcorn?

-I want it!-  They all demanded. -

So Their friends arrived, Usagi, Rei, Makoto, Minako, Ami and Mamoru. After the usual repetitive kisses, hugs, greetings with bows and others. The one also known by Tuxedo commented corroborating the previous words of Tom.

-This Roy had a great deal of detail in leaving the tickets to our names. He called me to warn me about it. And so we have gained a lot of time. They have not even begun warming up.

-Warmth? - Usagi asked. -

-Yes, before starting the game players have to stretch a little and do some exercises before.-  Cooan explained, pleading between amused and proud of it. - I know perfectly well, when I was Cheerleader at the Golden I witnessed many games beginning.

- Although Roy does not need it. - Bertie said with a funny and even mischievous smile. -

-Well, he'll have to disguise it a bit. - Ami pointed out cautiously. -

-Of course, - Diamond said.-  However, after the training we had in the Time and Soul Corner, this is nothing.

Those who had shared such an experience with him nodded approvingly, and soon Tom, spoke, saying to the group.

-Come, the boys of the Corner, come with me for popcorn and soda!

-Do we all have to go? - Ail was surprised. -

-Of course you do, do you know all things we will have to bring? -Sapphire said. -

-True, -Diamante said, gingerly arranging the others. - Come on, come on!

So the group of boys got up while in the pavilion could watch videos and listen to songs by artists more or less known to them of their time in the Corner of the Soul and Time. Fun young girls watched as the players were still in tracksuit and started to warm. Roy himself dutifully followed the stretches of stretching and smooth running around the pitch as the stands filled up with audiences and the music sounded at a good volume ...

Passion, love, sex, money

Violence, religion, injustice and death

Paninaro, paninaro, oh oh oooh ...

-The song promises. - Emerald joked amidst the amused smiles of the others.

Girls, boys, art, pleasure

Girls, boys, art, pleasure

Paninaro, paninaro, oh oh oooh ...

-I couldn´t agree more. - Amanda added. -

The players began to train by making basket entries as warm-up, at first softly, then some were doing dunks. Roy of course, between them. Maybe more to impress his friends than anything else ...

Food, cars, travel

Food, cars, travel

New York, New York, New York

New York, New York, New York

-Look, that stanza has nailed it. Just our case! – Minako laughed, seconded by her companions. -

Paninaro, Paninaro, ooh oooh

Paninaro, Paninaro, ooh, oooh

Armani, Armani, Ar, Ar Armani, five

Paninaro, Paninaro, ooh oooh

Paninaro, Paninaro, ooh, oooh

-It should say, Deveraux, Deveraux, Deveraux. Emerald right? - Amanda smiled at the amused assent of the respondent. -

Armani, Armani, Ar, Ar Armani, five

Paninaro, Paninaro, ooh oooh

Paninaro, Paninaro, ooh, oooh

Now you're gone, I'm alone

My heart is broken and I do not want to go home.

You know it's all over, you're out of luck

You feel depressed and you want to self-destruct

I needed you and you loved me too

But now I do not know what I'm going to do

Life goes on, I'm talking about the past

Now I'm going to find someone who will dance with me.

-Well, it does not encourage much. - Petz said, listening to the lyrics. -

-Although in some things we can identify ourselves. - Bertie sighed, who immediately encouraged the gesture and smiled watching her boyfriend make one of his slam dunk . - The difference is that we have overcome.

You, you were my lover,

My dreams, my hope, my life

My passion, my love, my sex, my money

My violence, my religion, my injustice and death ...

Paninaro, paninaro, oh oh oooh ...

Paninaro, paninaro, oh oh oooh ...

Paninaro, paninaro, oh oh oooh ...

Paninaro, paninaro, oh oh oooh ...

(Pet Shop Boys Paninaro 95, author credit)

At last the girls put aside the music and that warm-up and stayed talking. Bertie asked Ami.

-And the others. Could not they come?"

-They have things to do. They are the guardians of the Outer System and are always busy. But they would have liked it. They send Roy all their support and wish him good luck. - She said to the approving and grateful smile of her interlocutor. -

-What about you? Is it okay that you told me? - Bertie asked. -

-I have the exam in a few weeks. I hope I can pass it and get the necessary title to access here. - The girl replied. -

- Will you introduce yourself to the TOEFL? Right? - Cooan asked, standing beside her. -

-Yes ... -Ami retorted by affirming.- With a little luck I will pass the equivalent to the level C-1 and I will be able to study here of exchange when I arrive at the university.

- With a little luck? - Rei intervening with a broad smile from a near position to assert almost in a mocking tone. - Ami, you will get it for sure, luck is not going to have anything to do.

Her companion and friend smiled, at the assent of Bertie and Cooan. Of course Beruche was quick to say with cheerfulness.

-If you need anything do not hesitate to ask us. What's more, let's see if you'll be coming with us shortly. We could visit the city and other places. And if you can understand Roy when he starts with his New York slang, you'll pass whatever tests you're given.

-It's true, Rei. Cheers! Now things are quiet at last. Tom and I would love it if you came to Portland too. - Cooan added. -

The two women looked at each other and smiled. It was the priestess who could declare.

-I wish I could! But I have much to do in the sanctuary. Now I do not have anyone to help me.

-I'm sorry about your grandfather. Now you know. I told you there and I'll tell you again. – Cooan said in a sad tone,  laying a hand on her friend's arm. - He was a great guy. I will remember him with great affection.

-Thank you, Cooan. - Rei muttered, sounding close to being thrilled. - You're very kind.

-Yes, a trip to America is not bad, I would be very useful to promote me. - Minako interjected.

- I'd rather go sightseeing to London. - Makoto then said. -

The girl turned her attention to the boys' area, where Nephrite and Diamond seemed to chat excitedly about something. To which her companion Venus corresponded with a rather significant look at the same time that she responded in solidarity.

-I loved living there. It is a beautiful city. - Yes, maybe we could go on vacation together sometime and I would guide you.

-It would be great.- Her friend smiled while still looking at the ex-Shitennou.- I wish we could ...

Meanwhile the players returned to the locker room after exercising a little. Usagi immediately said in astonishment.

-It is done?...

-That was just the warm-up, we already told you.- Rei sighed shaking her head.-

-They'll be back in a bit .- Makoto explained her. -

Her friend nodded, then continued the conversation with her companions on other subjects. Annie, on the other hand, chatted with Petz.

-Well, this is spectacular! It's a huge enclosure! I had not seen so many people together since I participated in a play with the girls.

-Yes, I remember that!- Usagi laughed at that. - We had a great success despite the fact that one of your cards got in the way.

-I think that's precisely why  we had such a success. - Minako said with amused expression. -

-I still remember those damn disguises of animals as dwarfs. -Makoto laughed in turn forgetting the previous issue. - They were very uncomfortable!

- How? What are you talking about? -Petz inquired curiously, to urge them with keen interest. - you have to tell me that ! it sounds fun.

-You'll see, - Usagi told her. - It turns out that Annie cheated with a straw to get the role of Snow White and ...

-Girls! There they go and this time for real! - Cooan interrupted pointing to the exit of changing rooms with excitement. -

So it was true. From the tunnel emerged the figures of the players of both teams sheathed in their respective tracksuits. His friend was in a group at the end, chatting with some colleagues. He even seemed short compared to most of them.

-Wow!  -Tom said. - Those are league stars, we'll see what Roy can do against those guys!

-Surely he alone can defeat everyone.  – Beruche added clapping as she exclaimed – Go ahead my champion!

The other smiled and Diamond conceded nonchalantly.

-If he wanted to, it would not be a problem for him to win all those guys combined.

-Do not you forget anything? - Tom asked them, making everyone look at him in surprise. - This is not worth flying or using an excessively fast speed, this is not a combat. And besides, he would never want to do it that way. By taking advantage of his power.

-That's true, - Nephrite admitted. - That would not be fair or sporty. -

The boys looked at each other. The truth is that until now they had not though about this circumstance. Roy would have to disguise his powers. Maybe it was not so easy after all. Then the buzzers sounded and after a few more minutes of warm-up, the players headed towards their respective bench. The rivals were introduced first and then, with an effective spectacle in which  the lights were turned off and only illuminated with errant spotlights, it was the moment for the home team players. But the Knicks did not line up their friend Roy in the lineup.

-Well, he does not seem to play for now. - Rei said, unable to avoid her disappointment. -

-Surely they were wrong. - Cooan said. -

-You did not see much basketball at professional level, did you, Connie? - the girl's boyfriend sighed -

-Tom, you should have more faith in him! - She reproached him. -

-It's not a question of me having faith. You know I'm his first fan, but this is a coach thing. But do not worry. I'm sure that when he comes out he will prove his worth. - He replied with a conciliatory tone -

-That will be if he comes out. – Sapphire objected with some uneasiness adding. - Because if the thing is matched, the substitutes usually do not play much.

-We came because we wanted to watch him play. I think he will do and do it well. - Makoto said with a more optimistic mood. -

-Yes, because in case he does not play, after the trip we've done to see him. - Usagi complained to what Rei answered by handing her a hit on her head. - Oh! But what are you doing?-  She shrieked, rubbing her head. -

-Stop Usagi, do not be so big-mouthed! – Her companion reprimanded her. -

For every reply, her interlocutor threw the popcorn on her and Rei responded in the same way, placing the container on her friend´s head as hat. A pitched battle began until the surrounding spectators scolded the group.

-Usagi, Rei behave, please!- Mamoru asked them hurriedly, causing them both to turn red. -

-They're really big guys. - Emerald intervened while she did not lose sight of the warming of some of those giants next to the basket of the Knicks. - Even Diamond is short compared to most of them. Roy's going to get it really difficult  if he cannot fly.

-Not only does stature influence this game. - Ail pointed out aptly to the group. - There are also shorter players than him.

-Besides, he will play as an point guard, I am sure he is going to throw triples or enter to basket in the counterattacks. Or maybe he could play as play maker and assists his teammates. – Diamond explained. -

-Well! - Nephrite said surprised. - I did not know you knew that much about basketball.

-Something I've seen lately on TV in order to learn. - His interlocutor smiled. -

-I understand.- Nephrite agreed. - I've seen a lot of football in England, it's the national sport there.

-Football, is it like the one here? - Tom wanted to know. -

-No, it is not the same thing, you call it soccer here. - The man answered. -

-Look, it's about to begin. - Sapphire warned them. -

And indeed. At last, the game started, the initial jump was won by the Knicks. A few minutes passed and the two teams were even, neither dominated clearly. In the middle of the first quarter, the opposing team was ahead with a slight advantage. The Knick´s coach put two new players on the court but Roy was still sitting on the bench without moving. Beruche exclaimed something impatient.

-Listen mister coach! -She started toward the bench impatiently. - Why do not you put Roy in the game?

The bench, which was very close, looked completely at her, except one that covered his face with his hands (it was easy to guess who). A very elegantly dressed and backward-looking guy with a stern air, also looked at Bertie, and then, again, he stood impassively on the court.

-Little cube, for God sake!. - Roy thought stiffly. - Do not say anything. – Then his coach looked at him with severity and he could only shrug and make a stupid smile on his face, muttering. - My girlfriend ... she's a great girl ...isn´t she?

The Knicks were already trailing by ten when the second quarter began. Soon they made more changes but the one expected by all did not arrive. Now it was Petz's turn, which arms in jars, she rose exalted.

-My sister is right. What kind of coach are you? Any fool can see that you have your best player sitting on the bench and you do not put him to play!

-That is! Malden, get Malden out! - Esmeralda added with an urgent voice. -

-Of course!-  Makoto leaned in. - We all know he's the best!

-Ay, ay, ay! - the object of their claims lamented hiding the head, now under a towel - For anything what you want more. Shut up now! - He muttered under his breath. -

The coach looked at him with more disgust, Roy only smiled again, shrugging once more.

-Shut up now! - Sapphire asked the girls hurriedly after noticing the situation. - You're going to make sure the poor man does not play all season long.

-Sapphire is right, - Cooan admitted more quietly. - You have to be patient.

But the minutes passed inexorably and after the second quarter came the pause of the game. Roy had not played a second. Mamoru told Ail.

-Let's hope he can play now.

-I do not know why they get so nervous, after all it's just a game,-  The alien declared. -

- Come on Ail! - Ann reproached him while cradling their son. - Do not you see that they are very excited?

-We must have faith. His chance will come. – Mamoru added. -

-At this rate, we'll have to go and pray a little. – Usagi sighted. -

The second half began and Roy was still sitting. After a few minutes his team was been beaten by fifteen. Now it was Diamond who shouted impatiently.

-Eh, that coach ! we're getting bored ...

-Come on, let's chant. - Minako encouraged using the empty cone of the popcorn as an improvised speaker. - Get Malden out!

- Let's go coach, cheer up. - Ann asked with a smile. -

-Such an attractive fellow like you should listen to ladies as beautiful as us. - Emerald advised him with a mellow voice. -

The young woman also crossed her long legs, causing the coach to clear her throat and look away embarrassed. The same as a half of his bench that paid more attention now to that than to what happened on the court ...

-Go ahead. Let's encourage him! - Usagi enthusiastically proposed.

And she did it immediately, standing up with Minako. Each one of them with two cards in which they carried the name of the boy written in both chanted to duo.

- Hip hip, Roy, ra, ra, ra! Malden, Malden will win!

-This sounds like something familiar to me. - Cooan muttered, turning red toward Makoto. -

-Yes. To me too. - She agreed the same way, adding with visible flush.- And now there is Minako-chan to do the choirs with her....

 With the surprised faces of the other fans, the rest of the group, with visible blush, looked away. A few seconds later, that became endless, in the middle of that tirade, the rest of the warriors and their friends no longer knew where to go, pretending not to know that two at all. Finally between Ami and Makoto respectively  were able to sit them, with the astonished looks of the rest of the public on them and their friends with the red faces of shame. Luckily for them, the coach seemed to give up. It was a few minutes to finish the third quarter. Then he turned to Roy.

-All right, Malden, come out or I'm not going to get your fan club to shut up.

-Hey, I am sorry, sir. They are my friends, they have come from far away.- He tried to justify by scratching his neck and laughing like a fool in sentence. - And they are excited to see me play.

- Well, you know?, now I also excited to see how you do it. So you can play well because if not, you will be cleaning the bench until the season ends! - Threatened the mister with a severe face.  - It is understood?

-Yes, sir, - Roy said with a drip of sweat on his head as he hurriedly removed his tracksuit. - Do not worry, I will not fail you.

-I hope you are worth of my trust.  Now come play! - Snapped the coach. -

 And at last the boy went out on the pitch at the noise of his friends.

-Hey! - Diamond said cheerfully. - that's it, it's about time!

-Come on, Roy! - Tom exclaimed, raising his fists. -

-Hey Tommy! This is not a fight. - Cooan reminded him with a funny face. -

-It's just a way of speaking. - He said flatly, adding to the previous with resolution. – Come on, my friend, show everyone what you can do!

But due to the anxiety the beginner lost the first ball he touched. Sapphire covered his face and Diamond yelled.

-Come on, man! You've been rusty from being so much on the bench!

-You make me nervous. - Roy responded by standing in the middle of the game before the astonishment of the spectators, their partners, rival, and even the referees. - Shut the fuck up!

-Do not insult the public, - one of the referees reproved him, - or I'll have to punish you.

-Do not worry. - Roy smiled at him, leaving the guy astonished. - They are my friends, they have come to watch me play and cheer me, as I start today.

-Well, what a strange way they have to do it, - the referee replied, shrugging his shoulders to indicate. - Come on, if you want an advice, forget the fans and play.

Roy nodded nervously, glanced sideways at his coach who kept his eyes on him and wringed a towel. Things got bad, the boy knew that, or  he did something quickly or could say goodbye to play for the whole season. It was now or never.

-As the teacher Son Goku used to say.-He thought, trying to concentrate. - Faster than light and more serene than the sky.

Although that he remained for a moment quiet and with the closed eyes in the middle of the field drew enough attention. The coach was already rising to the bench to ask for a change and then Roy opened his eyes just when the opponent playmaker was going to make a pass to one of his eaves. Thanks to his reflexes he cut a ball and managed a basket to the counterattack. All his friends applauded and the coach nodded in relief. The boy smiled reassuringly. That was what he needed, he began to defend with more desire, and even stole another ball that turned into assistance for a partner. Now the mister applauded him with a shout.

-Well, Malden, go on like this.

The alluded nod, of course he would! In fact, after several plays, he managed to score a triple. Bertie and Cooan hug each other in their seats.

-Yes, that's good, they're yours! -

-Well, he has thrown from a long distance, for that you have to have marksmanship.- Ami recognized adding true to her style. - He's given a parable of at least ninety degrees ...

- Stop the calculations, for God´s sake! Can you not stop studying even here? - Rei remonstrated amused and astonished, causing her to become a little red. -

-Haf theyf winf alreafdy? - Usagi asked her boyfriend as she chewed on a hotdog with enthusiasm, holding two more in both hands. Repeating once she could speak better. - Have they won ?

-Not yet. - Mamoru replied patiently, shaking his head as he contemplated how her future queen had the teal-colored mouth of ketchup. - Look at the scoreboard, they are six points down. And there are still quite a few minutes left.

- Well, that's not much. – Makoto said. - They should have time to come back.

- Of course! Surely in the name of love, Roy will win. - Minako harangued, looking at Bertie who turned red. -

Fortunately the girls seemed to be right. The role of his friend in the meeting was growing important. He managed to defend two attacks well and recover those balls by assisting his teammates. Thus, in the last quarter of the game, the distances had been reduced to only three points of disadvantage between both sets. The fans cheer the new Knicks player up when he stole one more ball and got another triple that tied the game.

-Good! -Sapphire and Ail exclaimed, throwing the popcorn into the air and embracing each other with joy. -

-Well, and Ail said it was only a game. - Petz smiled at Ann, who was also laughing at the almost childlike enthusiasm of her partner. - He's as excited as my boyfriend!

-It's an exciting game, no doubt about it. - Nephrite reflected reflexively without losing his gentlemanly composure. - Now it is very even.

And so it was, after an exchange of baskets the Knicks managed to get ahead, with a couple of rebounds by Roy in attack. Their rivals could not explained as he had been able to win the position in the jump, being also, of such short stature in comparison to the rival pivots. Not  satisfied with that, the fortune smiled him and he caught another two rejections that went long in defense and his was the assistance that allowed his team to reach the hundred points. When one minute left he stole another ball again and running until the rival basket made a slunk dump that raised the applause of the respectable. The opposing team asked for a time-out and when the players gathered in a row to hear the instructions, the boy's group hailed them.

-Very well Roy. You're the best! Do you see coach? We already told you. - Minako shrieked really passionate about the future of the game. - Next time, take our advice before.

-You are great, honey! -  Beruche applauded, feeling very proud of him. -

-You'll see how she rewards you tonight in your little house! - Usagi chuckled. - Hey, Roy, you got to be good tonight and save some energies for Bertie!

Although these words had the effect of putting all the boy´s teammates in embarrassment, Roy, the rest of the Knicks' staff and even his own coach. Raising some laughter among the audience.

-Usagi-chan, please! - Beruche whispered, visibly embarrassed, though she covered her face with both hands. -

-I am sorry. Ha, ha. I couldn´t help it! - She apologized by putting a hand back her neck. -

- You have a bigger mouth than the tunnel of New York subway. - Rei admonished her, with a sneer. - And the tunnel is so big...

- You already had to mind which is none of your business – Mrs. I stick my nose in what it is not my problem! - Usagi replied in turn. -

Rei of course sticking out her tongue, her interlocutor did the same. Luckily, between Minako and Ami they made space between their partners since the war of popcorn was again imminent ...

-Please. Be attentive to the game. There is little left. - Makoto asked hurriedly trying to prevent Rei from stamping her antagonist another popcorn cone, this time full. -

- Yes, girls. - Minako agreed with the same gesture of shame, holding Usagi so she would not wet her arguer with her drink. -Time out is over ...

Ami at all this smiled stiff at the sight of her companions. She tried to ignore them as she calculated the probabilities that Roy had to score points regarding the minutes that were missing to finish the match. Indeed, luckily the time out was over, the girls calmed down and the players returned to the court. Roy even had the chance to score another basket and a couple of free throws. When there were only fifty seconds left, his coach sat him down, so the whole audience was able to cheer him up in recognition of his work.

-But why does he take him off if he was playing so well? - Cooan asked, stunned and somewhat indignant. -

-So the crowd applauds him, now that the game is decided, Connie. - Tom smiled. - It's a gesture of deference.

-It is true. - Tercio Sapphire applauding and listening just like the others. - He has earned it.

And so it was. The whole audience cheered on this promising young man. They had enjoyed Roy's performance, and even the closest ones on the track had  took sympathy to him when they heard his "admirers" ask to the coach to let him play. Diamond and even Nephrite who were close to the position of the commentators, could hear a guy with a beard and voice somewhat nasal say.

-This boy, Roy Malden, is very fast. Steals balls tremendously. Some of their opponents have not even noticed until he had taken the ball off and ran into the other basket. It seems to come out of nowhere, like the Invisible Man.

And another foreign commentator, bald and with bow tie, made strange fits and said in a language that was unknown to the majority. However Amanda could translate, telling then that was Spanish…

-¡Siiii! ¡Qué jugón! Malden. Menudo “Funky Man” está hecho, ¡Too funky for meee! y con su propio club de fans el tío. Aunque ¡menudo club!  El club de las jugonas. ¡Vaya tías! ¿Eh Daimi...?. I am the invisible man…see right through me!  ¡Ja, ja! Que no le atrapan…

"Hey! What a player! Malden. Funny "Funky Man" he is, Too funky for meee! And with his own fan´s club. Although what a club! The club of the beauties. Wow, what a girls! Eh Daimi ...? This guy can sing. I am the invisible man ... see right through me! LOL! They won´t take me alive...

            He added in a high-pitched tone, addressing a companion more focused on revealing the details of the game who replied with a voice more serious and analytical.

- It seems that Malden comes from a small university, right here, from the State of New York. He is a young non-drafted point guard. I think he was playing in a minor league. It looks like a personal bet from the coach. He defends well, shoots right and is very fast in transition.

-Yes, yes. -That other extravagant type added to return to his previous subject, as if he had not heard anything from his colleague. - I think one of those is a model. Now I do not remember her name, but the girl appears in the magazines. Or not? Daimi. We did well to come for the opening of the season. Hey!. Yes or no? This boy, coming from the commercial league, is going to stand out. The Knicks have found a real player! Gallery of the chosen ones for glory. He is the invisible man, the guy. But where does he come from to steal those balls? Where does he come from? I do not see him? What a crack! Juuugoooon!

Roy could catch some of this and as that guy spoke in Spanish he understood it. He felt quite flattered. But it was even better when his teammates, some of them very famous and outstanding players whom he admired, congratulated him. Even his coach approached to tell him, now with a rather kinder tone.

-Well done Malden!, It seems that your friends were not wrong, keep it up and they do not have to complain.

-Thank you very much sir. - He smiled happily and looked at his friends with a wink, to the delight of all of them. - I'll do it ...

The game ended 112 to 103 in favor of the Knicks, the pitch was dislodged and everyone went out to wait for Roy on the outside because he would take a shower. Then perhaps he had to talk to some journalists who were already starting to fence the exit. Some even headed to the dressing rooms where they could enter ten minutes after the players themselves.

-Let's go home and prepare a surprise party! - Diamond proposed. - What do you think?

They all agreed on it with visible pleasure.

-I stay here. - Beruche told them. - Poor thing! he has played so well. I will not let him go back alone.

-Okay. - Tom agreed, - then you'll take him there, but do not tell him anything. Give us time.

-We'll wait a moment to greet him, before leave. - Usagi said. -

- We'd like to stay, but we have to go back to study. - Ami rifled to the dismay of her teammates. -

-Then when there's no one around, we should go with the porter. – Rei added confidentially. -

- So you cannot stay? - Although only a little bit more. - Cooan lamented. -

-It is true. - Minako protested eager to see more glamor after game. - What else one more day can matters?

-We should start studying without further delay. - Ami insisted between the annoying faces of the rest of her classmates when she reminded them. - Be aware that in Tokyo there are many hours of difference from here. We will be foxed to return and accuse the sudden change.

-You know what happens, it's like an instant jet lag. So you have to rest. In addition, exams begin within a few days.- Makoto had to admit.-

-How awful! I hate studying! - Usagi theatrically exclaimed, though they all knew she really meant it. -

The warriors sighed with patience, even Ami herself would have preferred to stay on this occasion, but unfortunately it was not possible. So they said goodbye affectionately to all the others who were going to prepare the celebration ...

-We'll see you at home. - Bertie agreed with the rest, so she waited for her boyfriend in the company of the sailors and Mamoru. -

The others agreed and left. Willing to begin preparations for the celebration. That night Roy and his friends would have more than a surprise ...

And just a few feet above, overhead, Leval smiled. At least that had been nice to see. He was able to enter the pavilion using his skills in order to not to be detected by security. That way he had the immense fortune of watching his father play live. And everything was just as he remembered it. Even when through the closed circuit television and the giant scoreboards, they took some shots of the vociferous warriors or Roy's friends insisting for the coach to take him out. Since childhood, he was always amused. And to his thoughts came the memory of his poor mother who always sighed when they had seen that game together in video. How many times she had wiped a tear, but she always tried to smile. She thought he did not realize it, but Leval could feel how much she was suffering from remembering those good old days. And those beautiful moments of his mother's past were now the present for him. That was like going crazy! The boy considered all this after leaving the pavilion and discreetly return to the house of his future parents. There, still at a safe distance, he would hide and wait until he could appear.

                         previous                                          next