CLAY, MORE

Go! Go! Victory!

Whooo!

You... You can do it! Cheer up!

Aw, come on!

If you've only got that little fight in you, you might as well quit!

Are you seriously falling down from that puny punch? Get up!

...

E-everyone, if I could have your attention please...

Jeez, what a waste of time!

...!

I want my money back, trash!

Ugh! Damn it!

I... er...

I-I can't do it anymore...

I guess I really can't do this whole 'empowering someone else' thing all by myself after all...

It's just way too hard for little ol' me...

B-Bay, are you okay?!

What's wrong?

Does it have to do with that fall you had during tumbling practice a while back,

or that other time you fell while doing the Toss Cupie stunt,

or maybe when I tossed you up too high and caused you to bump into something?

If that's not it, then...

Clay, shush!

You're in a hospital, so lower your voice.

Oh, sorry...

I was worried about Bay, that's all...

She's come here before to treat some minor injuries,

but she's never been hospitalized like this...

There's no need to make a big fuss about this, Clay.

I'm fine.

Are you sure?

Don't stare at me like that.

I told you, I'm fine.

You're lying.

!

I can tell. It's written all over your face!

Pepper, is Bay really okay?

Physically speaking, she's fine.

We were able to swap out the parts that were damaged.

However, this has been happening at an alarming rate recently.

We've replaced her leg parts more than 20 times in the last month alone,

and she's had her arms replaced 10 times.

...

She's had that many replacements?!

Yes, well above the rate which is considered normal.

If you want our medical opinion, we believe this could pose a problem.

If she keeps this up,

she might be facing a Mind Switch.

... Replacement... Mind Switch...

We plan to keep her here for a while to rest while we run some tests on her.

Once those are finished, if we don't see any problems, we'll have her discharged.

No, we can't do that!

I'm the squad leader. I can't be away for that long.

Oh no, you don't, Bay!

If you were to suffer a Mind Switch, it'd be irreversible!

How could I possibly experience a Mind Switch because of this?

As you can see, it's not a big deal, so don't overreact.

I'm not overreacting!

I know how these things go since I've seen it firsthand!

What? Where?

I-it was...

You really ought to take this seriously, Bay.

If you're not careful, a Mind Switch could lead to you never being able to cheerlead again.

...!

But... Rewind is on the rise right now.

We have so much work to do.

I can't let this opportunity pass us by.

At least give me a week to get things sorted.

Bay, you know that's not possible!

Let's just follow Pepper's advice for now.

Then what about the competition?

Don't you worry,

let me handle that!

You just concentrate on resting and getting through those tests!

...

What's with that look? Do you not think I can do it?

No, it's nothing like that.

...

I just... feel bad, that's all.

I feel like this is all my fault.

Stop right there!

You know this isn't your fault!

I don't want to hear another word like that from you!

Anyway, you don't have to worry about anything for a while.

So get some rest and focus on your recovery.

In the meantime, I'll take care of Rewind.

Got it?

...

Bay!

...

Please!

...

Aren't you going to answer me?

*Sigh*

... Okay.

*Inhale* *Exhale* *Inhale* *Exhale*

I know it's just me out there, but I've gotta go the extra mile for Bay!

It's tough to win on skills alone, so I've gotta get the crowd pumped up as much as possible...

All right, let's do this!

It's all gonna work out!

One, two, three!

Rewind, one more ti...!

You're up. Get ready.

Excuse me, just a moment!

One of our members isn't able to participate due to health reasons,

so I'll be performing alone.

Sorry?

The competition rules clearly state at least two members are required to participate.

You can't go out there on your own.

Th-that can't be...!

Isn't there anyone who can substitute for her?

... No, there isn't.

I'm very sorry, but your team will have to be disqualified.

No!

What should I do?

Should I contact Bay?

...

No, I can't worry her with this!

I'll just prepare extra hard for tomorrow's performance. That way, I can make up for what happened today!

*Inhale* *Exhale*

Today is just a regular performance, so I don't have to worry about being disqualified.

As long as I perform the way I rehearsed it last night and don't make any mistakes, it'll be fine!

Only good things are gonna happen from here on out. Good things.

It's all gonna work out!

All right, then... One, two, three!

Rewind, one more time!

*Clap clap clap* Go! Go! Victory!

You can do it! Cheer up!

Now, raise your hands and do the wave with me!

Starting from the left!

*Whoooosh*

Hey, where's Bay?

I came to see her tumbling. Did something happen?

Clay seems less energetic than usual too.

Let's go! Let's win this!

Keep it going!

One, two... W-whoops!

I missed the beat...

...

I-I'll start from the beginning.

...

Rewind?

Their gig today was canceled.

What with all this negative press, we thought having Rewind on stage might bring down the mood.

I steered her towards another gig instead.

She seemed a bit hesitant, but she headed in that direction in the end.

Here's the address.

Hey, you.

Over here.

You are here for the Under Arena, right?

Just so you know, admission is a bit extra today.

It's the big match between Marin and Ruby,

some of the top fighters in the entire arena.

Anyway, I'm glad you found us.

Sometimes people have a tough time finding the place since it's so well-hidden.

It started a while ago. Hurry up and go in.

Whoooooooo!

... Victory!

You... You can do it! Cheer up!

...

E-everyone, if I could have your attention please...

Um... uh...

...

Hey, watch where you're going!

Be careful, will you!

...

Huh...?

Wha... what?

Coach?

Am I dreaming?

Wh-what...

Wh-what are you...

What are you doing here?

Me? Why?

...

Okay...

Whoa! You've contacted me so many times?!

Sorry,

it's so noisy in there. I didn't realize you were trying to reach me!

I was also really focused on my cheerleading...

Even though I couldn't finish...

...

Bay sent you, didn't she?

No.

It's just... I know how busy you are, Coach.

The fact that you've contacted me so many times and even came here personally

tells me that Bay must have asked you to come.

And it seems like my guess was right...

...!

...

Well...

As soon as word got out that I was performing on my own without Bay,

most of our performances got canceled...

I tried my best to do the ones that wasn't cancel on my own,

and practiced super hard, but...

I wasn't able to follow the beat, and I ended up making all kinds of mistakes.

And today, our show at the stadium was canceled without any prior notice.

Instead, they asked if I was interested in performing somewhere else.

In order to prevent our reputation from sinking any lower,

I said I'd do it, since I wanted to try and get through a performance without making any mistakes,

but all I ended up doing was failing half-way through.

It didn't have anything to do with the tempo.

I was the problem...

Without Bay,

I can't do anything.

I'm useless on my own.

...

What?

Luck just wasn't on our side this time around, that's all.

Even with all that practice, it's still tough to keep in step with the tempo.

That's okay, though. I'll do better next time!

Since Bay isn't here, I have to be twice as good!

...!

Is that what I'm usually like...?

...

I...

...

Well...

You saw what was going on in that arena, right?

The Nikkes who were fighting.

In the past...

I was in the same position.

Yeah,

I used to

fight and all.

Let me ask you something: do you think it's possible for Nikkes to fight Raptures bare-handed?

Hehe. It does sound impossible, doesn't it?

But the Ark is a place

where you can glimpse the impossible on a regular basis.

A long time ago, I heard there was a Nikke that did fight Raptures with her bare hands.

I scarcely believed it myself, but I couldn't get the thought out of my mind.

I'm not sure if it was because I wanted to see someone else pull it off, or if I wanted to accomplish it myself.

Even now, I still can't say what my motivation was...

At any rate, our squad was formed to see if melee combat was a viable combat option.

As you might have guessed, the experiment was a complete failure.

All of my comrades were either scrapped,

transferred to other squads,

or sold to the Under Arena.

I was one of the Nikkes who was sold to the arena.

The others adapted quickly

since they were used to fighting barehanded on a daily basis.

But... the same couldn't be said for me, though.

I only ended up dragging everyone else down.

Who's going to fight today?

I-I will.

What? Ruby? Don't we have any others?

What about the others in her group? Opal is a good fighter, and Garnet is a crowd favorite.

They ended up experiencing a Mind Switch and had to be scrapped. We think it might be because they had their parts replaced too frequently, but we're not sure.

...

It hasn't even been 6 months since we bought them, and they're broken already?

We're gonna be in the hole big-time today!

Damn it, why did the ones we want to keep end up busting

while this useless bucket is still kicking about?

It's because the Nikkes that broke are the ones we used the most.

The less useful they are, the less they're put into action. That's why they're still in good condition.

...

Ugh, I'm surrounded by thieving scam artists.

They've got some nerve sticking a dud like this along with the good ones.

If you can't fight, you could at least be appealing in some other way.

What am I supposed to do with you if you can't do anything properly?

You're not bringing in a single credit. Meanwhile, I'm sinking my wallet into your maintenance costs!

She should at least try her best if she really feels bad for her friends. Anyway, let's send her out for now since we don't have any other Nikkes to use.

I-I'll do my best...

Argh!

3, 2, 1!

Urgh...

Oh, what a shame! Ruby has been eliminated in the first round!

Jeez, that Ruby really is hopeless. Do you think she'll ever improve?

What's she even good for? She's got no sense of showmanship, let alone any actual fighting skills. She's such a bore.

Didn't they say Opal was supposed to fight today?

If not her, then at least Garnet. What is this?

...

I knew it... I can't do it on my own.

Should... I quit?

...

Yes.

It would be better that way.

...

... Yes?

Oh, I-I did?

I was just thinking about the past... hehe.

When I was in there doing my routine,

all those old memories of my time there came flooding back, and it got me scared.

I was so useless then.

I was able to hold on thanks to the other Nikkes who were there, but only barely.

After they were all gone,

everyone around me couldn't stand me.

Back then, and even now, I've never been able to do anything on my own.

I can't do anything without someone's help.

I'm so useless...

*Sob* S-sorry.

I don't mean to cry, really.

All those old memories ruined my routine today.

I can't stand this. I'm so ashamed of myself.

I just want to leave this all behind me.

I just want to give up.

*Sob*

Good grief.

I can't take any more of this pity party.

The idea of giving up shouldn't be bandied about like that.

Huh? What'd you say?

I was saying that I can't stand listening to any more of this pity party!

Wha...?

I-I should be asking what you're doing out here in the open!

I saw you leave the Under Arena and decided to follow you, that's all.

Why wouldn't I? There's no way you'd show up in a place like that unless you had a good reason.

I was wondering if something was up.

I also had something I wanted to talk to you about.

Also, just to set things straight,

I wasn't intentionally eavesdropping!

I was going to let my presence be known straight away,

but your conversation took a weird left turn, so I had to wait for the right moment.

You two were also so quiet that I couldn't hear most of it anyway.

Hold on, why am I even explaining myself?! Anyway, that's not the point.

You're a moron, you know that?

Who? Me?

Yes, you!

What reason have you got to be so down in the dumps?

You're talking about giving up?

Don't be ridiculous!

The reason the audience was so riled up today

had nothing to do with you!

Huh? What do you mean?

To put it simply,

I'm the one they were upset with.

What I'm trying to say is that you did nothing wrong.

?

?

What's up with you two?

Why aren't you saying anything?

Yeah.

... Is that not it?

That's right!

I was really taken aback by their reaction... hehe.

Thank you for your support, Milk.

Don't mention it.

Are you feeling better now?

I am, hehe!

Glad to hear it.

Don't let me hear you talking about giving up because of stuff like this, okay?

There's nothing

I hate more than quitters and losers.

I see...

...

...

Are you really okay?

O-of course! I'm perfectly fine, hehe.

You said the crowd was angry with you?

Why would they be mad at you?

Oh, I guess you didn't see it.

Why don't you explain, Pal?

What? You didn't notice either?

Were either of you even paying attention to the ring at the center?

And I was too focused on my cheerleading to notice anything else.

Oh, really?

Hmm... Wait just a moment.

What do you think?

Do you recognize me now?

That's right.

This is much more comfortable.

Wow, you noticed that?

You've got a sharp eye, Pal.

Is that the only difference you can see,

though?

Um... Is your hair color brighter?

How could that even be possible?!

Ugh, you two are killing me!

...

Fine, I didn't want to say it myself, but

I'm one of the top fighters in the Under Arena.

Didn't they tell you when you came in, Pal?

Just so you know, admission is a bit extra today.

It's the big match between Marin and Ruby,

some of the top fighters in the entire arena.

Wait!

Ruby?

That was the name I used to... erm...

Did you two really just make that connection?

Yeesh, you guys are slow.

That's right, I'm "Ruby".

It's my nickname in the Under Arena.

So you're using that name too...

That was you fighting in the ring?

That's right.

This is what I like to wear when I'm competing.

As for why the audience was so peeved earlier...

Is it because you lost?

... Yeah. A pretty thorough thrashing at that.

But hold up,

how come you know so much about this?

Oh, um...

I-I've always enjoyed watching hand-to-hand combat,

so I visit the Under Arena often.

I even go there to cheer sometimes, like I did today.

... Huh. I didn't peg you as the type who'd be into this stuff. Color me surprised.

... Hehe.

Huh? About what?

Oh, well, it's no great shakes, really.

Just a hobby of mine.

It helps to relieve my stress, especially when I win.

You call it a hobby, but hand-to-hand combat isn't exactly a leisurely pastime, you know?

On top of that, didn't you say you were one of the top fighters?

That's really impressive!

Hehe, it is,

isn't it?

That's only because when I started out,

losing was a regular part of my routine, if you will.

Oh?

I lost every single time.

...

Every time you compete?

Did you ever get sick of it?

You bet I did.

This world is filled with some tough customers, I tell ya.

That's true...

Didn't that make you want to quit?

I'd be lying if I said the thought never crossed my mind.

It came as a huge shock to me.

Remember what I said earlier?

How I hate losing most of all?

At first, the fact I kept losing was incredibly frustrating.

I started to resent the whole world.

At some point, I started questioning myself.

Why the hell can't I win?

What the hell is wrong with me?

This is really pissing me off.

I'm going to win, no matter what!

In a way, all those losses became a source of motivation.

They kept me going.

That's amazing.

Hehe, you remind me of Bay.

You're so passionate about what you love,

and you never give up, no matter what happens.

That's right. There's no such thing as giving up in my book.

...

But recently,

I've been having a tough time with something.

Really?

That's why I followed you two, because I wanted to talk it over with Pal.

There's this opponent...

and I feel like I've hit a brick wall.

It's more complicated than that.

Every time I face her, I get absolutely spanked!

That's why the crowd was in such an uproar back there.

Yeah.

Marin is currently the top-ranked fighter in the Under Arena.

Have you tried analyzing the playback?

That can be quite helpful... Er, I mean

I've heard that it can be helpful.

I tried, but I didn't get anything out of it... Maybe I need another pair of eyes.

It felt like the more I watched it, the less I understood.

Is there any way you can help me?

Even if it's something small.

I desperately want to beat this chick, even if it's only once.

But at this point, I feel like I've exhausted all the options available to me.

Sure!

We'll help you!

You're okay with that, right, Coach?

We can talk about this in detail later.

Really?

I thought for sure you'd be too busy.

You're both going to help me?

I really appreciate that, but are you sure you're okay with this?

Hehe, of course!

You did such a good job making me feel better,

consider this my way of repaying you.

I do have one question though.

What's that?

Your nickname.

Why did you choose the name Ruby?

Oh, that?

I heard that the name Ruby is synonymous with defeat in the arena,

so I decided to use it.

Even though it's associated with something negative like that?

That's precisely why I like it.

If I keep winning and change that image, it'll be the most satisfying thing ever.

In fact, you could almost say that I've already succeeded,

since I'm doing quite well as is, hehe.

...

What's wrong?

You look a little... Gah! What are you doing?!

I will do everything I can to help you, Milk!

I'll see to it that you win

if it's the last thing I do!

Uh...

Thanks.

I'm sorry, Coach.

I've been acting so recklessly today.

I'm so sorry...

Despite that,

you didn't tell Milk my story,

and agreed to offer help to Milk.

I can't thank you enough!

Me?

Th-that is...

...

You're right.

That place does frighten me still.

Just as much as being in Rewind alone without Bay frightens me.

That's because it might reveal how useless I am.

But after that talk with Milk, I realized something.

I still haven't faced my demons,

and that's something I intend to rectify!

But I know that's easier said than done.

Heck, even thinking about it is scary.

But if I don't overcome this fear,

I feel like I'll forever be stuck in a rut.

So,

if I ever start talking about wanting to give up or anything like that,

I want you to set me straight!

Hehe, thanks!

It's reassuring to know I've got you in my corner!

I should get in touch with Bay later to thank her,

and apologize for making her worry, hehe.

You mean about Milk being a pro-fighter?

Oh... Yeah!

Hehe, I guess.

I can see where that'd be unexpected. I'm not particularly athletic, and I don't have a sense of rhythm.

Rhythm is incredibly important, even in combat.

It's similar to dancing, where you have to follow a certain rhythm.

But even back then, I wasn't very good at that.

My mind and body weren't in sync.

I think that's what prevented me from doing as well as the others.

No matter how much I practiced, I couldn't keep up the pace.

Oh, this?

It's far from done, but would you like to see?

I was writing this down for Milk.

The more detailed the schedule is, the better.

I used to make schedules like these for the other Nikkes back in the day.

Once I'm done with this,

I'm thinking of analyzing the playback

to find any particular strengths or weaknesses.

That all might be more apparent to a fresh set of eyes!

I've had a lot of experience with this before,

so I thought it might be helpful for Milk.

Here, take a look at this.

I think this routine should be good.

What's all this?

I whipped up a basic schedule and practice routine leading up to your next match.

I also went through the playback and took some notes, which I've written down in this document.

Just in case, I brought some supplements for you as well.

Are you taking anything already?

Er, not really, but...

Did you two prepare all of this in one day?

Oh come on, you did a lot.

The only reason I was able to prepare all of this is that you did such a good job organizing everything for me.

This is amazing.

This is like it's been done by a professional.

Are you really just a casual fan of this stuff?

!!

W-well, not just a fan, you see. I'm a real fanatic!

... All right, I guess that makes sense then.

This truly is amazing, and I'm not just saying that.

If you wanted, I bet you could find work as a manager for fighters.

...

I've heard that before...

What was that?

Oh, nothing.

Anyway, like I was saying before, it would be best to start with the video analysis.

I've analyzed several videos of your fight with Marin.

Let's skip to this part...

Here.

Now, let's play it back in slow motion.

...

The significant difference in body size between you and your opponent will put you at a significant disadvantage in terms of attack range.

Even something as simple as tackling seems to pose a challenge.

With that being the case,

it would be better to employ fakeouts and speed rather than confronting her head-on.

So you want me to resort to cheap tricks?

If I were the old me, I might have gone for that,

but I'm different now.

I moved on from that type of stuff a long time ago.

No, no, you're getting it all wrong.

Such a considerable size difference is something you simply can't overcome, no matter how hard you'd like to.

But wouldn't it be more satisfying to defeat her mano y mano?

That would be incredibly difficult, if not impossible, due to the size difference between you two.

Hey, are you underestimating me because I'm small?

N-no! Not at all!

Ugh, what is up with this food?

Does it even have any seasoning at all?

Nope!

For proper physical conditioning, it's important not to eat any food that's too heavy.

Don't tell me that I have to eat all of this?

Yes, of course!

... Oh boy.

You too, Coach.

*Pant pant pant*

Can't... run anymore... *Pant pant* Impossible...

Oh no, you don't.

You've still got 5 more laps to go.

I'm running at the same pace as both of you, so keep it going, both of you.

*Pant pant* Don't you get tired at all... even a little bit?

Hehe, stamina is one area where I excel.

If you stop to rest now, you'll only make it harder on yourself.

Keep going.

If you're too tired, Coach, you can run for 2 more laps instead of 5.

I'm sure you can handle that, right?

One! Two!

One! Two!

Pick up the pace!

Good.

Again! One! Two!

You doing okay, Coach?

Are you hitting the bag as hard as you can?

...

If you're tired or need to take a break,

just let me know.

Pal, don't overexert yourself. Take a breather.

I appreciate you doing this for me, but I don't want to see you get injured.

Then I'll go back to Milk!

One! Two!

One! Two!

...

Huh?

What was that?

N-nervous? Who's nervous?! I'm totally fine!

...

Okay, fine. Just a tiny bit, maybe.

I'm normally completely fine before a match. In fact, I get pretty excited about going out there.

But this is the first time someone has helped me train like this.

I feel like I've got expectations to live up to.

Milk!

Gah! You startled me.

Drink this.

What is it?

It's a special energy drink that I made myself!

I'm assuming you didn't eat anything today, yes?

Yeah. I didn't want to upset my stomach.

Well, this shouldn't upset your stomach.

Thanks.

Also, don't feel any pressure, okay?

We've practiced a whole bunch.

Just remember everything that we covered in practice, and be natural.

Your body will remember the rest.

... Okay. Got it.

I'm sorry for acting all weak like this, especially when I'm the one who asked for your help.

I'm gonna go out there and smash her to a pulp!

And we'll be cheering nice and loud!

...

Mmm?

... Yes.

Hehe... I'm really pathetic, aren't I?

After that big speech I gave Milk, something as simple as going out there is making me nervous.

Phew...

Okay, I'm ready. Let's go!

Looks like Marin is having a hard time getting up!

Countdown!

3, 2, 1!

What?

Ruby, who had always struggled against Marin, pulled off an incredible comeback with a devastating counterpunch!

Wha...?!

No! You can't lose like this so easily!

What are you doing, Marin?!

What is this?! I've got a lot of money riding on this!

How could the top fighter get her clock cleaned?

I... won?

Looks like all that practice paid off!

That was amazing, Milk!

... No.

Huh? What do you mean?

You took down that hulking Nikke with a single punch!

That's totally ama...

I didn't defeat her.

Huh?

It'll be easier if I just show you both the video.

Here, look.

It almost looks as if she purposely didn't dodge the punch, and then... pretended to be knocked out?

Exactly.

There's no way the spectators would have picked up on this,

but I felt it as soon as I stepped into the ring.

I knew that the person in front of me had no intention of fighting.

Argh, this really pisses me off!

What the hell is she playing at?

...

It's certainly strange.

I need to check her previous matches and see if I find anything.

Hmm?

Hmm...

Oh, don't tell me...

Coach, could you come with me for a moment?

Milk, you must be tired. Go ahead and rest for a moment.

We need to go figure something out.

Let's go talk to Marin.

I have a few questions for her.

There's no way Milk will take this sitting down,

and to be frank, I don't think either of us will either.

She works for the Under Arena

and I used to be one of those Nikkes as well.

So I know where their waiting room is.

The managers should have left by now.

Security isn't that strict in there, so we should be able to get in if we're careful.

It's this way.

Excuse me, but is there anyone named Marin here?

... Who's there?

I'm Clay from Rewind. I was wondering if we could talk briefly?

Hi there. Are you Marin by any chance?

Yes. Why?

I have a few questions for you about today's fight.

What questions?

Why did you throw the match?

... Have you lost your mind? You come barging in here and immediately start accusing me?

I should call security...

I've watched many of your matches.

You've fought tooth and nail in every single one of them.

Until this week.

...!

For some reason, I get the sense that you purposely lost all the matches you participated in this week.

Today's match was the same.

Were you perhaps...

instructed to lose on purpose?

... Who are you? Are you one of the officials?

How did you know how to get here? There's something strange about you.

Hehe... I used to be affiliated with this place.

Not anymore, though.

That's why I wanted to check for myself.

Then you ought to know better.

Now that I've made it to the top, I've served my purpose.

It's all downhill from here.

I knew it.

You probably don't know how the Under Arena operates, Coach.

This place makes money off of Nikkes fighting in the ring,

but that alone doesn't make enough money

to keep it running.

That's why a betting system was introduced.

However, even that wasn't enough... so now they're fixing matches.

First, they do whatever is necessary

to make one Nikke the champion.

Once they've done that, they start fixing the matches that they're in.

They tell the champion to throw the match on purpose.

Knowing that most people will put their money on the reigning champ, they instead bet on the underdog in order to make a lot of money.

After the underdog wins, they flip the script and have the champion win once again.

They keep doing this for a while, making money hand over fist, until the people start to forget about the former champion.

When that happens, they create another champion,

and then the cycle repeats.

The same thing happened to my friends from before.

It is, but there's no way for the crowd to know about it.

Even if complaints do come in, they can brush it off and blame it on a Nikke malfunctioning or some other excuse.

Then they're scrapped.

What management says, goes.

I knew about it, but when it's your head on the chopping block, it's not so easy to turn them down.

Yes.

I enjoyed the feeling of winning.

... I see.

There's someone else I know who thinks like you do.

What?

Ruby. The one you fought today.

...

She trained her butt off trying to defeat you.

She must be upset for me not putting up a fight today.

...

But there's no need to feel sore about it.

I lost tonight, so next time will be my turn to win.

I heard they'll be bringing in a lot of high rollers,

so I've got to win no matter what.

Tell her not to be upset since I'll be giving it my all next time.

So that's what's been going on!

No wonder I had such a strange feeling.

But what's all this about her taking the next fight seriously?

She makes it out like she's doing me a favor.

It sounds to me like she's insinuating that she'll win easily if she takes the fight seriously.

I mean, to be fair, she's creamed me every time she took our fight seriously...

Argh! This is driving me crazy!

How can you tell me to calm down?!

Those scumbags have been playing us like a damn fiddle!

How can I get back at them?

... Oh, yes. I have a good idea.

What is it?

Based on what Marin told us earlier, this upcoming match is an especially high-profile one

since they're bringing in a bunch of high rollers.

That means they'll be throwing down some serious money.

All the spectators will probably put their money on you,

and the Under Arena will most likely be betting on Marin to win.

Are you saying...

if we want to hit them where it hurts,

you have to win?

Hell yeah, now we're talkin'!

Just thinking about screwing up their plans gets me so excited.

That's right.

In order to do that...

Oh no...

Starting today, your training is back on until the day of the match.

Marin is a formidable opponent, there's no doubt about that. But she's not unbeatable.

Are we... going back to the schedule?

*Sigh*

Milk, now's not the time to give up!

You should have heard Marin.

She was trash-talking you and saying how you couldn't possibly get on her level.

Tell her to train for another 100 years and come see me then. That's what she said!

What?!

She even said that punch of yours felt like getting tickled with a feather.

What does she take me for, some kind of joke?!

Yeah, how dare she?!

That's why we have to win this time!

Let's show her that you're the stronger one!

That's right!

I'll pound her into the pavement!

Come on, what are you waiting for? We've got to go practice!

We've got a fight to win!

... Hehe.

I just wanted to motivate her a little bit, but it seems I ended up going overboard.

At any rate, it seems to have worked quite nicely!

Y-you really think so?

Huh? What kind of talk?

Ah...!

...

Hehe, thank you, Coach.

Whenever I'm going through a rough patch and those thoughts start to pop into my head,

I'll remember this moment, all the kind words you said to me, and stand tall.

Normally, Bay would be the one comforting me.

I miss her.

I really want to go out cheerleading as a complete team.

...!

I...

I'll tell you later when the time is right.

For now, let's get back to practice.

Of course, Coach!

Hey, Pal.

I haven't even had enough time to train,

let alone be nervous.

Have I ever told you how cool your outfit is, Milk?

Haha, I appreciate that, but you know that doesn't do me much good, right?

Huh?

About 30 minutes.

We should all head out and get ready.

The match was over so quickly last time,

you didn't have any time to cheer.

Yeah, but it'll be different today!

All right, let us give it our all today!

Ah...!

You bet!

I'm coming back as a winner!

Great! While practicing with Milk all this time, I've been slowly preparing both my body and mind!

I'm sure I'll be fine!

Go! Go! Victory!

You can do it! Cheer up!

How was that?

Glad you noticed, hehe. Well, we should get out there!

Phew...

...

I put on a brave face in front of Coach,

but I'm still nervous... and scared.

Can I handle this alone, without Bay?

... Ah, looks like it's about to start.

Let's go!

Whoooooooo!

I've gotta... get started too.

Go... Go! Victory!

I heard you're going to take today's fight seriously.

...!

What? Surprised that I'm putting up a fight instead of going down like usual?

Hmm...

I've got news for you: today is the day I win.

Damn, this size gap is no joke.

I don't intend on losing today either.

Time to finish this.

Dang, this lady is a beast!

She's much better than what we saw in the video...!

Not only does she have a size advantage, but her attacks are incredibly forceful. If even one of those hits land...

!

!!

M-Milk!

Yeaaaaahhhh!

Whoooooooo!

It's... all over.

I... I can't do it. Not again...

I tried my best to help,

but my best wasn't good enough.

Without Bay by my side, I'm no help to anyone.

*Sob*

So we have to lose the next match? Send out Ruby then.

We were planning on scrapping her after tonight anyway.

Did you say you're going to scrap her?

Are you crazy? Do you realize how much that procedure costs?

I don't want to waste another credit on this hunk of junk.

Just toss her. She's not even worth disassembling for spare parts.

If you just leave her be, she'll probably end up in some Outer Rim dump, anyway.

Oh, you didn't forget to remove her identification chip, did you? Has she been deregistered?

Of course. This isn't my first rodeo.

I'm just being thorough. If we get caught, we'll be in serious trouble.

Okay, fine. I'll check one more time and toss her to the curb.

...

Don't give up, Ruby!

...!

Am... am I hearing things? I thought someone just shouted my name...

Ruby, don't give up!

You can do this!

3!

Don't give up without even trying!

2!

I said get up!

1!

Huh? What's that chick's deal?

C'mon, the match is over! You're just a cheerleader, so act like one and stop butting in!

Go! Go! Victory!

Cheer up! Cheer up! Never give up!

Ruby!

No, don't...!

Don't give up!

You can't, Ruby!

This can't be how it ends!

Now after how hard you trained.

You can do this...

You have to do this...

You have to show everyone they're wrong!

I know it's tough.

I know that giving up might seem like the easiest choice.

But...

that won't solve anything!

So please!

3!

It's not over yet, Ruby!

2!

I know you can get up!

1!

So don't give up!

Whoooooooo!

Phew...

Ruby!

...!

Jeez, there's no need to shout.

I was planning on getting up anyway.

Hey, you! You can't go up there!

Get down right now!

Oh, s-sorry!

C-Coach!

Thank you!

I thought you were done for.

*Huff, huff...* All your punches do is tickle. You'll have to do better than that.

That's it. Playtime's over.

Go Marin!

Come on, Ruby! You can win!

Marin ought to be getting pretty tired as well.

If Milk can hold on just a bit longer, she absolutely has a chance.

Whoa!

Hrrrngh!

Eat this!

?!

I think you went a bit overboard with that punch, didn't you?

If you're too slow to react, I guess I've got no choice but to hit you.

Argh!

It's over for you.

3, 2, 1!

I can't believe my eyes, folks!

Ruby is the victor!

Whoooooooo!

Yeeeeeeees! Whoooooooo!

She won! She won, Coach!

Whoa, what are you doing?

We did it! We did it, Milk!

You did great out there!

Let me go! I can't breathe!

Oh, sorry.

I just can't help it, I'm so happy!

I said let go!

Hehe,

I guess I am pretty cool.

Man, I can't believe I actually won...

...

Hmm...

It's okay, Coach.

She expended too much energy and fainted, that's all.

Having said that, we should probably get out of here.

I don't think it's a good idea to stick around for too long.

Because we just totally wrecked the Under Arena's scheme.

There might be consequences.

Okay!

Isn't it a wonderful morning, Coach?

Hello, Coach!

I'm here too.

You took such good care of Clay while I was away,

so I wanted to come thank you in person.

Thank you, Coach.

I'm really grateful too.

If I didn't have you supporting me, I...

I might have really given up.

Thank you for staying with me to the end. I can only imagine how trying it must have been.

Thanks to you, now I know

what I'm capable of, and where I should be.

Hehe.

Oh, and I also found out what happened to the Under Arena afterwards.

After we fouled up their plans,

they're apparently putting a hold on their entire operation for a while.

I can see how that might upset Milk,

considering she only just became the champion.

Hehe. Anyway, I'm glad that everything worked out.

Yeah.

We're better than okay.

Both in terms of teamwork and skill.

As we've been performing and showing the people what we can do,

all the negative comments and rumors have slowly disappeared.

Most of our fans are considering this a brief hiatus that we took for personal growth, and they're even happy about it.

It's all thanks to Clay.

Stop, you're making me blush!

Together, we'll make Rewind bigger and better going forward.

By the way, Coach.

Are you available this weekend by any chance?

We have a competition on this weekend.

I thought it would be nice if you could come and watch.

It's okay if you're busy.

Wow, how lucky are we to have Coach come see us perform!

I'll be sure to put on the best show possible for you.

Clay, we're almost up.

I'm ready!

Perfect.

Umm, Bay.

Yes?

Can I ask you something?

Go ahead.

Do you remember when you were at the Under Arena once...

and you cheered me on?

Of course, I remember.

Can I ask...

why did you do that?

I didn't amount to much, either in terms of skill level or popularity.

I was inspired by your tenacity.

??

What?

My tenacity?

Yes.

From where I stood, you were working the hardest of anyone there.

You had the most to lose.

It would have been a real shame to see someone like you be defeated,

so that's why I cheered you on.

I see...

Bay, to be honest, while you were gone...

there was a moment where I thought me quitting Rewind would be for the best.

Why?

Well, you're the real face of Rewind,

and I don't have the same skills as you, so I felt all I was doing was dragging the team down.

Without you around, I felt like I was nothing.

But, just when I was about to throw in the towel,

I remembered that time when you cheered me on.

That was the moment when I decided I wanted to join Rewind. No, when I knew I would join!

Only by remembering that was I able to gather my resolve.

If it weren't for what you did that day, I would have been left by the wayside,

searching aimlessly for meaning, for a reason to live...

Looking back, I really was reckless then.

I was consumed with the desire to join Rewind.

Even though I was all battered and bruised, I went straight in to see Mr. Mustang.

And luckily, he helped me when no one else would.

I have you and him to thank for why I'm able to be a part of Rewind.

Anyway... Um.

I wanted to thank you for doing that

and for giving me the strength to change.

Clay.

Yes?

You're the one who pushed through.

You're the one who decided to change.

I should have said this a long time ago,

but I want to thank you for joining Rewind,

and for cheerleading with me.

You're an essential part of this team.

Don't ever forget that.

Bay...

I...

... Okay! I won't!

That's the spirit.

Now, it's time for us to go out.

Hehe, it's been a while since we performed as a full team.

You're right, so let's give it all we've got.

Let's go!