Welcome to chapter 8, I am so sorry for the long delay – I just kind of got stuck. (#+.+;)

Anyway, I hope you enjoy the chapter!

To Gly from chapter 7: thank you so much for the wonderful ideas! I laughed at the images of the knb boys undertaking those tasks and it was very helpful for planning this chapter. I am glad you enjoyed the update and appreciate you reading & reviewing ^.^

To the guests from chapter 7: Thank you for reading and reviewing!

On the Dangers of In-Flight Entertainment

Chapter 8

Kuroko was experiencing a sort of resigned numbness to the proceedings. He had heard the announcement and even abstractly understood what was going to occur, but his brain was refusing to seriously process any further upsets today. Besides, as he tried to reassure himself, they were in the air – what kind of games could they possibly play? Surely nothing that could make any of this worse, right?

He was wrong. Naturally.

It started off simply enough. The flight attendants announced the first game would be a quiz contest that everyone could play using the small remotes they distributed. The passengers were asked to type their names into the ID box to keep track of how everyone was doing and to sync their device for further participation. Questions would be announced and shown on the screens – you needed only to select one of the choices on your remote to answer. The winner earned points toward a school tally and for an individual ranking as well.

Kuroko was momentarily grateful. This turned the attention away from him for now, at least. He heard Aomine complain though, "Why are we being punished with a test? This isn't fun."

The questions were all general knowledge. A ranking was shown after every five questions – the early leaders were Hanamiya, Akashi, and Midorima. There were strong showings across the various teams and even from some of the civilian passengers that had joined in the contest, but the margin quickly widened to show Hanamiya and Akashi in a tie for a perfect score.

Kuroko wasn't surprised by how well Akashi-kun did and even smiled as he witnessed it. Unfortunately, the staff had not anticipated such uncompromisingly dominant players in this game. There was a noticeable edge of desperation in the voice of the attendant in charge of reading the questions as it became clear neither of the two strongest competitors were going to give ground. A few private wagers were arranged as to whether she would run out of questions before either of them answered incorrectly.

Finally, when many had grown bored and were no longer paying attention, and in a truly improvised move, the woman hosting this game said that Akashi and Hanamiya would simply both get the points for first place. Nobody needed to see their faces to know that neither Akashi or Hanamiya would be pleased with that decision, but they had little recourse for addressing their grievance.

It did, however, add interesting stakes to the next game.

Another announcer took over. First, they mentioned that the participants of this game had been pre-selected, by popular demand. While the exact nature of this game was not revealed, it was easy to guess who would be picked with that teasing phrase included. And indeed, it came as no surprise to see among the chosen delegates many familiar duos: Kuroko and Kagami, Kise and Kasamatsu, Himuro and Murasakibara, Aomine and Imayoshi, Midorima and Takao, Hanamiya and Seto, Akashi and Mayuzumi, all obligingly assembled at the front when their names were called. While the plane's slightly unsteady surface meant they were braced against the bulkhead wall, they followed instructions and turned to face those still seated.

Kuroko stood next to Kagami but he had not yet looked at his friend – at least, not directly. So he was surprised when Kagami tapped him on the shoulder. Kuroko looked up, and saw Kagami fighting off yet another blush. But Kagami asked only, "Are we okay?"

It brought a lightness to his chest. Kagami was his friend and Kuroko knew that no matter what awkwardness might arise in light of the unexpected events from this flight, Kagami was an important part of his life.

He offered a small smile. "Yes, Kagami-kun." It was all they needed, for now.

The stewardess ruffled a sheaf of papers in her hand teasingly. When the athletes turned to look inquiringly at her, she explained, "Since so many of you have been featured in national magazines, you have of course garnered quite a lot of fans. Many of them are sending their hopes and encouragement for your victory in this tournament. What you may not have known, is that one of the top teen magazines ran a poll of what questions they'd like to ask you and those questions were forwarded to us. This game is a test-of-courage; will you be brave enough to answer your fans' questions? You get a point for each one you answer – the one who can answer the most questions wins the game and adds to their team's standing. Currently, Akashi-kun and Hanamiya-kun are in first place and so are their schools by extension– will their standing hold? Let's find out!"

All of them stiffened. This had the potential to be a serious invasion of their privacy. A few misleading answers might be needed in order to keep their secrets to themselves.

Sensing their skepticism, the coordinator waved encouragingly. "We've added in a penalty portion as well. If you refuse to answer, you lose one point. Additionally, if others on the plane think you're not being truthful, you can be challenged using the answering devices we distributed in the first round. If a consensus is reached, you'll pay a forfeit designed by the fans in addition to losing a point. I would encourage all of you to be truthful, there are some…ah…interesting penalties in here."

The players and the audience all took notice of the way she said that. And suddenly everyone was looking at them with laser-like focus. Kuroko tried to make himself even less noticeable than usual, but he had a feeling the effort wasn't particularly effective.

"Who would like to go first?" She offered this as if there was a great demand. She was met with momentary silence.

Kise, who was used to getting asked invasive questions by interviewers, finally volunteered. "I will."

The announcer smiled and flipped to the page with questions for Kise. "Thank you, Kise-kun. Your first question: is it true you are dating the model you co-stared with in the perfume ad last winter?"

He laughed, this was easy enough. "That is not true. Haemi-san and I are friends but she has a boyfriend back in Korea." And since it was common enough knowledge that Kise was in fact dating Aomine, nobody contested him on that answer.

"One point to Kaijo. Who will be next?"

Nobody volunteered and so she took matters into her own hands. "Now now, this is all in good fun. Don't be so shy. We shall go in order then. Kasamatsu-kun, since you are next in line, your first question is: why doesn't your girlfriend come to cheer you on at games?"

He scowled and answered brusquely, "I don't have a girlfriend."

She arched an eyebrow, "Really, Kasamatsu-kun?" She turned teasingly to the spectators. "Is there a challenge to this answer?" The silence that ensued was painfully uncomfortable - very few of them didn't know of Kasamatsu's awkwardness in the romance department.

He spoke with clenched teeth, "Is that my second question? If not, perhaps it is the next person's turn."

She giggled but agreed. "Very well. Another point to Kaijo. Now, Midorima-kun, one of your fans wants to know if you find lucky items for your family members every day."

Midorima shook his head. "I let them know what the horoscope says, but on most days I leave them to abide by its dictates on their own." There was no objection from anyone when the hostess turned inquiringly toward the other passengers.

"One point to Shutuko." And the game continued. When it was Akashi's turn, many people were curious to hear what he would be asked.

"Ah, Akashi-kun. Someone wrote in: why aren't you ever pictured with a date at the many charity events your father's company holds?"

It wasn't entirely unexpected. Many of the questions had related to their love lives. Akashi stared at her for a long moment and they thought he might refuse to answer. However, if there was one thing they should all know about Akashi, it was that he refused to be the first to be penalized.

He temporized instead. "Those events are not meant to showcase my romantic inclinations; they are occasions for raising awareness for many worthy causes."

The announcer wasn't having it. "Akashi-kun, I will have to deduct a point if you do not more directly answer the spirit of the question."

He smiled, but it was a sharp, warning thing. "I am not yet able to claim the person who holds my interest for my own. When that changes, you have my assurance I will be delighted to bring them to as many of the galas and parties as I can convince them to attend." The look he gave her was everything polite and accommodating but somehow she had the distinct impression that pressing him further was not a very good idea.

"Ah, I see. Very well. Point to Rakuzan." It had not seemed as loaded a phrase with any of the others.

Hanamiya was asked how he overcame obstacles. He laughed and answered starkly, "I believe a direct route – straight through – is necessary. Sometimes the obstacle has to be demolished. And then it is only so much trash in the road."

The announcer looked a little discomposed by the intensity of his response but nodded and awarded him the point.

Soon enough it was Kagami's turn, "Kagami-kun, you have a fan that is interested in your connection to America. Will you try to play professional basketball there after high school?"

Kagami breathed a sigh of relief, he definitely got an easy one. "I would love to do that. But I'm not cutting out a chance to stay in Japan either. It would be an honor to play professionally in either place."

His response was duly noted and then it was Kuroko's turn. She looked up, confused for a moment, "Kuroko-kun did not join the contest?"

He stepped forward to get her attention, "I am here."

Predictably, she jumped. "Oh! I, ah, I didn't see you. Goodness me. Your question then." She was clearly startled and trying to regain her composure. "Right. Yes, ah, this is a sweet one. Could you tell us about your first kiss, please?"

Kuroko shook his head apologetically, "No, I'm sorry, but I can't answer that."

She tsked at him. "Kuroko-kun, are you sure? You will be the first to refuse to answer, placing Seirin at a disadvantage."

He blinked in surprise. "I am not refusing to answer. That is my answer because I haven't had one." He paused. "Well, unless you mean on the cheek? But even then, it was probably when I was a baby and I don't remember it." Kuroko was a very literal person – if they asked about his first, he would indeed reach that far back.

She tilted her head in an inquiring manner as she looked at him. "Well I must say I am surprised, but…if there are no objections?" She paused to allow for someone to ring in, nobody did. Continuing with a small shrug, "I suppose it will thrill many young ladies to imagine having that honor. Point to Seirin."

Because he'd stepped forward a little so she could see him, Kuroko caught the motion of the other contestants turning to look at him in his peripheral vision. He was not really embarrassed about the status of his first kiss, but he was flustered that it seemed to be so interesting to everyone. He shuffled back into the line a little awkwardly, but he'd done his part. He didn't look up, but appreciated the fact attention was soon shifted away from him.

Aomine was next. "Ah, Aomine-kun, your question. Too Academy was eliminated earlier than expected from the Winter Cup, what did you take away from that experience?"

It was a brutal question, even though everyone could understand the impetus behind it. There seemed to be a collective freeze across the plane as everyone wanted to hear his reply.

He grimaced at the memory and shrugged. "I learned sometimes strength doesn't look like what you expect it to." He turned and glanced pointedly at Kuroko who smiled up at him a little sheepishly. "But it doesn't mean that's always the case, I'll win next time."

Things were going well, with all of them answering the questions, until it was Murasakibara's turn.

"Ah, Murasakibara-kun. Your question, "What do you like most about playing basketball?"

Unfortunately, Murasakibara was still not prepared to explicitly admit he liked the game. He frowned and grumbled, "I don't like anything about it. It's a hassle."

A buzzer sounded. The hostess looked at the monitor, matching the sound with the device. "Ah, yes, Kiyoshi-kun? You wish to challenge Murasakibara-kun's answer? Very well." She turned, speaking into the microphone. "If you would, please press 1 to support Murasakibara-kun's answer, please press 2 to support the challenge. If you have no opinion, please press 3."

A bar graph flew up on the screen, tabulating the results as they were pressed. 96% of the results were returned in favor of Kiyoshi's challenge. 1% supported Murasakibara's claim. 3% had no opinion.

The emcee laughed a little. "Well Murasakibara-kun, it seems you have been overwhelmingly outvoted. Would you like to change your answer or accept the penalty?"

Murasakibara was stubborn. Few could doubt that. He glared at her. "I don't care what the result says, my answer is true."

She nodded. "Penalty, then!" Her tone was a bit too chipper for anyone's liking. The stewardess flipped through to another section of the packet. "Ah yes. The penalty designed for you is that you will not be allowed snacks for one hour. That's not so bad, is it?"

It was like watching a slow motion horror show as the implications of that settled in for everyone. Heads turned with an unwilling fascination to see Murasakibara's reaction. The stillness was a fragile thing and it was broken easily as Yosen's center seemed to take on a threatening aura in response to her words.

Akashi's normally calm voice rang out in a clearly warning way, "Murasakibara, remember your actions reflect on the honor of your entire team and by extension all of us that participate. You would not wish to embarrass so many, would you?"

It didn't seem like that would be enough – would Murasakibara still listen to Akashi? Murasakibara was breathing harshly as he stared down at his former captain, considering whether or not he would obey. Akashi's eyes might both be red again, but the obvious censure left no doubt he was still a formidable opponent. Murasakibara turned a malevolent glare to the woman hosting and spoke irritably, "I accept the penalty."

Perhaps sensing that she was on dangerous ground, the attendant wisely moved on.

"Ah, well. Yes. Himuro-kun, your friendship with Kagami-kun is the subject of the next question. A fan wishes to know if you and Kagami-kun have ever argued over a girl?" She smiled eagerly as if anticipating a good anecdote on this matter.

Himuro smiled fleetingly and shook his head. When he answered, aware that they needed to diffuse the tension from Atsushi's turn, it was composed and diplomatic, "Our rivalry so far has always been with basketball. Taiga and I have long had different interests regarding the ladies and have never had cause to fight over one."

A nearly contagious snort seemed to take hold of those still seated. It was true, in a way. Kagami had expressed no interest in romance at all during his time in America – his brain had primarily been occupied by thoughts of food and basketball. This pattern had continued when he returned to Japan until he'd gradually made room for Kuroko. Himuro had a more developed history in the romantic area, but their preferences had not caused conflict so far. It was only now, with the subtle war that was just starting to brew around Kuroko, that the possibility of dissension had even crossed their minds. For the purposes of this question however, Himuro's statement was perfectly true.

Sensing she was missing something, the attendant turned searchingly to the spectators. "Does anyone wish to challenge Himuro-kun's answer…?" Nobody took her up on it.

With a shrug, she continued. The rounds went as expected – none of them were thrilled by this game, but it went smoothly enough until it was Kuroko's turn again.

Sending him an encouraging smile, the question was innocuous enough as it sailed through the air. "Kuroko-kun, please describe the person who would be your ideal type to date."

It was lucky that so many necks did not snap from the strain given the speed with which heads were turned.

Perhaps sensing danger, Kuroko did not immediately respond, his pause seeming all the more loaded given his current position. But with a small mental shake he answered, "Well, of course my preference would be someone that enjoys basketball," he smiled a little awkwardly, "but I haven't…well…I haven't thought about it in terms of a type."

It came as no surprise that the attendant was shaking her head even as Kuroko finished. "Can you expand on that a bit more, Kuroko-kun? If not, I am afraid I can't award the point."

"I don't know; I think he was fairly spot on. Kuroko's type must surely be as crazy about basketball as he is – I think everyone here could attest to that requirement." Whether mischief or sympathy motivated Takao was impossible to say, but his comment broke the tension with a scattering of surprised chuckles.

Her mouthed tightened in disapproval, the attendant still didn't look ready to accept this answer. But sensing the potential for rebellion from the participants, she wisely decided to allow it. "That makes your second answer that is not quite to the spirit of the game, Kuroko-kun, you must do a better job after this."

It was the wrong thing to say even if the intent was on the right track. Kuroko's friends were indignant on his behalf – not to mention they were annoyed by this invasive game themselves. And the slight flush of embarrassment on Kuroko's face may as well have signaled the start of a new team: it was nearly all of them versus the flight attendant. Few of them gave more than the barest possible answer after that and she could sense she had lost even the small willingness from most of them to participate.

Vengefully, she continued even though they were clearly not interested. When she finally got around to Mayuzumi again, she sent him an arch smile which was a warning all on its own. "Mayuzumi-kun, a reader noticed you have a similar style to Kuroko-kun and wished to know if you felt Akashi's leadership during the Winter Cup should have been better equipped to pit the two of you against each other?"

It wasn't his question yet Kuroko felt his chest tighten on behalf of both Akashi and Mayuzumi. He had wanted Seirin's basketball to win, of course he didn't regret that, but Kuroko didn't think it should be used against them now. The reader probably hadn't meant the question to be as provocative as it was, but the stewardess was showing her own spitefulness now that they had been collectively hindering her game.

Mayuzumi however looked relatively unperturbed. Mentally he was deriding the woman for allowing high schoolers to get the better of her anyway and he was more than ready to return to his book – this game had gone on long enough. He shrugged. "No."

She waited a moment but he was not saying anything else. It was, technically, a yes-or-no question after all.

The protest came, not from one of the others seated, but from among their own ranks. Hanamiya had a malicious smile in place as he raised his hand slightly. "Excuse me, I'm not sure if we are supposed to challenge each other's answers but that one is surely insufficient." The earnest tone was everything innocent and pious – you'd have to see the spark of mischief in his eyes to know he didn't mean this interjection to be harmless.

Sensing an ally, the stewardess nodded with something like vindication. Turning back to Mayuzumi she spoke again, "As the point was raised, your answer is not in the spirit of the game. This has been a poor showing from many of you, where is the sense of sportsmanship we expect from our representatives? Hanamiya-kun is one of the few who is demonstrating that quality."

Hanamiya was being lauded for sportsmanship? She couldn't have known the resentment that stirred for many of them, really she couldn't have, but it was as if the air was sucked out of the plane at that comment.

Some frustrated grumblings were heard but Mayuzumi laughed – a sound that startled those who heard it. Even Akashi looked at him with some consternation, he'd never heard so much as a chuckle out of Mayuzumi before.

"I didn't ask to play this game. Go ahead and assign a penalty if you want to. I really don't care and just want this to be over." He could not have sounded more bored if he'd tried.

The anger with which she flipped the page was definitely noticeable and her eyes eagerly scanned the list of penalties looking for something she could use against him. Deciding on an option she looked up. "Since you've graciously accepted a penalty is appropriate, I'm sure this will be an easy enough one for you. One of the suggestions is to sincerely compliment a rival; you have your choice of who that will be." It wasn't hard to figure out why she'd picked it – Mayuzumi wasn't known for his cordial personality and having to publicly praise someone wasn't something he'd relish.

You could practically hear the force of Mayuzumi's eye roll at her pronouncement but he leaned forward to look down the line. Settling on Kuroko, he got out of line, walked the few paces to him and in a tone pitched so that the attendant could easily hear him he offered his compliment, "Let me take this opportunity to tell you that I don't like a lot of things about you but I genuinely admire your ability to not throttle all the idiots you're surrounded by." Shooting a challenging look at the hostess his tone was unmistakably snarky as he asked, "Does that suffice?"

It was at this juncture that another stewardess came forward and after gesturing for her colleague to turn off her microphone, whispered something to her. They exchanged a few quick and heated arguments but at the end they were both wearing tight, forced smiles. The Q&A attendant left after switching her microphone back on to briefly thank the contestants for their participation. If her voice lacked sincerity, nobody really blamed her. A smattering of polite thank-you-for-the-game responses were heard, but they, too, lacked a ring of truth.

The new flight attendant turned on her microphone and with an encouraging nod, announced very welcome news. "It is time for a new game! We've awarded each school full points for the question and answer game, meaning that Rakuzan and Kirisaki Daiichi still have an advantage from their placement in the trivia event." She bobbed her head awkwardly, aware that the second game had not gone as well as they'd hoped. "Now that you've all gotten to know each other a bit more, we thought the third game should build on that trust! As you're all athletes, we expect you will have little trouble with this activity. First, Akashi-kun and Hanamiya-kun, would you come here please?"

They obeyed the summons, taking the few steps necessary to separate themselves from the lineup. The woman smiled brightly at them before turning to the spectators. "We'll have two teams, one led by Hanamiya-kun, and one by Akashi-kun. Each team will be trying to keep an inflated beach ball in the air the longest simply using their bodies to pass the ball to a teammate. Our spin on this game is that we will have the members of each team alternate down the aisles, so there is a possibility another team can interfere with a pass, or you might get confused and accidentally send the ball to an opponent, who could knock it down. Those still seated have the option to help if they wish, they can pass a ball or knock it aside, so those playing will need to keep in mind that there are potentially unforeseen allies and enemies as they strategize their move."

She paused and turned back to the two captains. "In order to keep team selection more interesting, you will be picking your teammates blindly. The others will get into a line behind you two; while you play rounds of rock-paper-scissors and the winner of each round gets to keep or pass on the person who is up for selection, but you can't look to see who it is. You do have the option to ask me one question about the person behind you – but it can't be their name or team. Obviously some of the participants are easier to identify than others, so pick your question carefully. If you pass, that person goes to the other team. If you keep them, then the other captain gets the choice of the next candidate. Got it?"

Akashi and Hanamiya nodded their understanding and she looked past them to the others that remained. "If you could shake up your current order and reform into a line, we'll get started." There was some awkward shuffling as they moved past one another into a new order, but they obeyed as best they could. Once they were done, she looked at Akashi and Hanamiya.

"When you're ready, go ahead with your first round."

They wasted no time. Akashi picked paper and Hanamiya picked rock, so the first selection went to Akashi. He asked, "Is this person's hair color black?"

She shook her head in the negative and Akashi nodded. "I will keep them."

It was Aomine and he laughed at Akashi for the result, but then he agreeably moved down the aisle at the attendant's direction.

Hanamiya had the next choice and he asked, "Are they taller than Akashi?"

She murmured a denial and Hanamiya passed on the candidate, sending Takao to Akashi's team.

They played the next round, Hanamiya picking rock and Akashi picking scissors.

Hanamiya kept this candidate after asking if they had ever been Akashi's teammate. The attendant frowned at him but Hanamiya had not asked what team they were currently on and so was not in violation. She affirmed they had been. He got Kise.

Akashi kept the next person in line but he did not ask a question. Himuro joined the lineup at his choice.

They kept going, one after the other, until everyone was divided. Hanamiya ended up with Kise, Murasakibara, Kuroko, Kasamatsu, Mayuzumi, and Seto. Akashi's team had Aomine, Takao, Himuro, Kagami, Midorima, and Imayoshi. Both teams were eyeing each other speculatively, it was difficult to say how this would turn out.

It took only a moment to retrieve two giant beach balls. One was a fluorescent pink and given to Hanamiya, the other was patterned in black and white swirls containing silvery glitter and handed to Akashi. Neither captain looked particularly enthused.

The attendant-turned-referee smiled briefly and then spoke through her microphone again, "Before we get started, we'd like to offer our thanks and gratitude to those spectating as you may accidentally become involved due to turbulence or a miscalculated pass. Your patience is appreciated. The rules of the game are simple. Hanamiya-kun and Akashi-kun will both pass to a teammate of their choice to start the game. From there, a teammate may pass to anyone else on their team, except for the person who just sent them the ball. For example, if Hanamiya-kun passes to Kasamatsu-kun, then Kasamatsu-kun may pass to anyone on his team except for Hanamiya-kun in that round. Whoever he passes to cannot pass back to Kasamatsu-kun, but they could pass to Hanamiya-kun. Violating this rule means you lose a point – including going into the negative, so be careful. If you pass to the other team by mistake or they take your ball out of play, the other team gets a point. The first team to five points wins."

The game started with Akashi passing to Takao who was opposite him, and Hanamiya sending his to Seto further down the line; the pace was cautious at first, with both teams testing their balance and the control needed to pass the ball to their designated target. Their natural inclinations toward stealing and aggressive maneuvers had to be moderated in these circumstances. But then, as those with competitive natures tended to do, they let their urge to win start to seep through. Passes got a little riskier as there was a concerted effort to knock the opposing team's ball out of line while still retaining their own sequence. There was a near miss as Murasakibara started to pass to Himuro by mistake but Kise hissed a warning at him and received an annoyed pass instead.

The hostess was keeping a close eye on the game, assisted by some of the other attendants. The first moment of conflict occurred when the beach balls were being passed and lightly touched – sending them away from their intended recipients. Kasamatsu was passing to Murasakibara, but it was pushed down too low for him to reach in time. Kuroko, not having heard a rule against moving, ducked out of place and bounced the bright pink sphere back into play by tipping it toward Mayuzumi, correctly guessing his teammate would have caught his movement as he saw Mayuzumi move into a ready stance. He'd forgotten that a pair of redheads on the opposing team might also be keeping track of him, and was chagrined to see Kagami move to intercept while Akashi returned their ball to safe play. Seto took this in stride and simply snuck his hand under the ball as Kagami thought to catch it and sent it back into play.

Kuroko didn't have time to return to his original spot before the next serves were put in motion and he was watching as Midorima and Takao exchanged a subtle nod, with Midorima's posture changing into a ready stance as Takao received the next ball. Having a good idea of what it meant, Kuroko prepared to move when the ball was next in Takao's possession. He wasn't sure he'd be able to pull this off given the difference between a beach ball and a basketball but it wouldn't hurt to try and as his team passed overhead, Kuroko ducked and intercepted the pass between Takao and Midorima, keeping the ball in his possession and earning his team the first point.

Kuroko smiled, pleased to have success, and returned the ball to the hostess for her to put back in play. As he walked cautiously by, Hanamiya leaned to murmur something to him, "So you're not always a purist for the rules? I'm so glad." His hand ghosted over Kuroko's back on the pretext of steadying Kuroko while they spoke, but the smile on Hanamiya's face had little to do with anything so wholesome.

He had nothing to say to that, Kuroko hadn't cheated and never would. He didn't answer, just moved away and back to his spot a little further down. He didn't notice the sharp glances that were sent his way – some of concern, others of suspicion, and one or two of admiration. Instead, Kuroko was keeping his attention on the game, almost surprised to find he was enjoying it. It was an interesting challenge, all of them were powerful athletes having to scale down their attacks given the lightness of the ball and the close confines they were playing in.

The next point was scored more quickly as Akashi intercepted a pass, having noticed that Murasakibara tended to pass to Kise if he hadn't received the ball from his Teiko teammate. This too was part of the game; taking advantage of how their alliances would shake out among friends and rivals alike. He smiled a little at Kise's pretended whine – knowing full well that it only meant Kise would be ready to return the favor.

There were a few stumbles along the way, especially when a passenger tried to head to the lavatory and accidentally knocked into Imayoshi on the way down and then Mayuzumi on the way back – both players managed to keep the balls in play but only just. In the end, nobody was surprised Akashi's team took victory. It wasn't that Hanamiya was an untalented player, far from it, but except for Seto, his teammates did not trust him and the residual suspicion meant their rhythm was not quite as synchronized as that on Akashi's team.

More importantly though, the game dispelled the lingering irritation that the question and answer round had inspired. Most of the players and spectators had cheered up tremendously by the end of the game. In that light, there was really no reason for Kuroko to have considered what might happen next and he'd been turning to allow someone past him when Takao's mischievous voice cut across the aisle.

"Tet-chan? Do you have something special in mind to congratulate Kagami on his win?"

Kuroko turned to look at Takao and from the mild confusion on his face it was apparent he didn't quite understand what Takao meant. But a quick glance at Kagami's flustered face as he sought clarification connected the dots. Takao's brief cackle of laughter indicated he was pleased with the small bit of trouble he'd instigated. Midorima's harsh reprimand to stop had little effect.

Although his expression did not change, Kuroko was a bit annoyed on Kagami's behalf. He was fairly used to receiving teasing of this type – and thanks today's rather trying events he had a better understanding why – but Kagami wasn't. Even though this was not exactly the same as a basketball game, Kuroko still wasn't going to leave Kagami alone in such circumstances. He inched down the aisle to Kagami's side, gave a small smile and congratulated Kagami. "It was a good game, Kagami-kun. Congratulations." The words were followed with a raised fist, an action they'd shared countless times and Kagami nodded before returning the fist-bump.

"It's good to win, but I hope we're done with these now." There was little doubt as to his sincerity but his wish was almost immediately denied as a chipper voice pipped over the announcement system.

"Congratulations to the participants on Akashi-kun's team! Each of you receives a point, meaning Akashi-kun and Rakuzan have a lead in the standings now." The news of this was met with good natured groans on the whole and Akashi's nod in acknowledgement of those words was somehow both gracious and matter-of-fact.

"For our last game, we'll be building on the stages already completed. In the first round, we tested your general knowledge as individuals. In the second, we tested your daring, patience, and what all of you knew of each other. The third round was meant to showcase your abilities to work together and to adapt to unfamiliar circumstances. And now at last we hope to bring this all together so that you all deepen the bonds of friendship and competition as you get ready to represent Japan in this tournament. Our last game will of course be Who's Feeling Brave?"

Some confused murmurs were heard as this name was not familiar to all of them. The hostess smiled and simply asked for each of them to return to the front and form themselves into a line again. Since Kuroko had moved down to congratulate Kagami, he was last to reach the front for the last game. Due to their number, the line was curved and from his spot on the end he could see most of the other participants. They were each given a plastic poncho and told to put it on to protect their clothing – all obeyed.

They all listened attentively as a large basket with a few dozen eggs was brought forward. The hostess explained the rules. "Some of these eggs are raw and some are hardboiled. Each person will be given an egg and attempt to break it against the forehead of any person in the line. If you chose yourself; you get two points for bravery no matter if it is raw or hardboiled – but then it must be another person's turn to avoid an unfair point accrual. Choosing someone else means you must be strategic as they will get one point if it is a raw egg. If it is a hardboiled one, no points are awarded and it is the next person's turn. All participants that get the raw eggs on their faces will be named to the roster of the bravest for being a good sport and of course we'll allow access to the staff lavatory for you to clean up at the end of the game. The ponchos should keep your clothes clean though."

There were laughing cheers from the audience as they understood they were about to witness their teammates make fools of themselves – none of them were envious that they'd been excluded from this game.

The stewardess who had hosted the question and answer round was back, her tight-lipped expression indicating she still harbored ill-feelings about how her game had turned out. She was apparently in charge of doling out the eggs this time.

The woman who'd explained the rules called for their attention. "We'll start the game randomly." She pulled a small bag out in explanation. "All of your names are in here, I'll pick one of you to come forward to receive an egg." There was collective nodding and she made her pick moments later, extracting a small scrap of paper.

"Ah, Seto-kun, you have first pick."

His smile was just this side of evil as he stepped forward and took his egg from the woman who'd hosted the interview game. He turned to survey the line, clearly trying to rile their sense of anxiety as he seemed to consider who he'd test the egg on. Making his selection, he stopped in front of Kise and smashed the egg on his forehead – using perhaps a bit more force than was strictly called for. He was disappointed; the egg was a hardboiled one. Kise narrowed his eyes but didn't waste time accusing Seto of anything.

Kise had next choice; he grinned and went for Kasamatsu. His captain glared at him but allowed the test – it broke. His growled, "You'll pay for that once we get back to the gym, Kise" drew laughter from many and an unrepentant wink from Kise.

Kasamatsu's name was marked with a point and he went for Aomine. The egg stayed whole and Aomine smirked at the Kaijo player's poor luck. Aomine of course picked Kagami and scowled when his didn't break. Kagami tried Aomine in return and gave sharp grin in triumph as the egg ran down his rival's face. It was worth sacrificing the point to see Aomine with egg on his face. It was Aomine's turn again but he ignored Kagami in favor of Imayoshi – stating innocently, "Well now we have two points" when his teammate was similarly afflicted by the egg breaking.

Imayoshi took a moment to wipe his glasses against the plastic so he could see more easily. He picked Hanamiya, who laughed when the egg remained intact. Hanamiya held his egg for a moment as he looked down the line. His eyes rested on Akashi but rather surprisingly, he chose to crack it against his own forehead – he received two bravery points even though it was a hardboiled one.

If you weren't watching closely, you might have missed the look of challenge that went between Hanamiya and Akashi. They had been the two highest contenders for most of the activities, Hanamiya's action bringing his deficit to within a single point now. Neither of them liked to lose.

Since Hanamiya had chosen himself, the hostess pulled another name from the bag to restart the round. Himuro's name was called and he offered a gentle smile before asking Murasakibara to lower his head a little. Murasakibara looked annoyed but complied and when the egg stayed whole asked, rather unsurprisingly – "Can I have this?" His commitment to ensuring an adequate snack supply was commendable.

The hosted blinked disconcertedly, but allowed it. Murasakibara pocketed the egg before going to pick another. His eyes went to Midorima, who stiffened in response but Murasakibara was undeterred and nodded with satisfaction when it broke over the stuffy shooting guard.

Naturally, Midorima retaliated against Takao – whose laughter even as egg broke over him showed he was having too much fun to care. Takao took his chance against Kuroko and despite its remaining whole, was still smiling and in good spirits.

Kuroko went to the stack and accepted the egg the woman held out. He looked at the other participants thoughtfully, trying to decide what would be best. Seeing that nearly everyone had had a turn at this point, he gave a mental shrug and chose himself; sighing softly when the yolk ran down his face. It rather depended how you viewed the outcome as to whether his gamble had paid off or not. Still, he'd earned two points and it would wash off.

Mayuzumi was summoned next and he didn't bother wasting time. He walked straight to Akashi and shrugged philosophically when his egg proved to be hardboiled.

By happy circumstance, Akashi's name was then the last to be called and he held the egg with consideration. His obvious choice should be Mayuzumi in retaliation; if the egg broke his team would win the point anyway. His eyes held a flash of something suspicious before he drew the egg up to his own forehead. He was safe – no yolk showed.

The hostess clapped to gain their attention and the smile in her voice was evident. "Thank you everyone for your participation. If those who were caught with a raw egg would make their way to the staff area, we'll work on getting you all cleaned up while we tabulate the overall scores. If you were spared, please return your poncho and then you may take your seats."

There was some awkward shuffling as they tried to follow directions and exchanged good-natured teasing as to the results of the game. Kuroko was at the end of the line behind Aomine. The line moved briskly since most of them simply had to wash their faces and stuff the soiled ponchos into a bag designated for that purpose. Aomine and Kuroko spent the time chatting about mindless things until Aomine was next in line. Suddenly realizing something, Kuroko blinked – Kagami had rather aimed more for Aomine's hair than his forehead. Getting Aomine's attention, Kuroko offered, "Do you need help, Aomine-kun?"

Aomine grinned but declined. "You're going to have your own worries on that end, Tetsu. Thanks though, I can manage."

True to his word, Aomine was in the lavatory for only a few minutes. He emerged with damp hair and sage advice, "Leave the poncho on while you wash your hair, Tetsu."

Kuroko rolled his eyes but thanked Aomine and took his own turn. The staff lavatory was bigger than those allotted for passengers. Kuroko noted a selection of water bottles and decided to use them to rinse his hair since the space in the sink was limited. There was a small packet of soap and Kuroko awkwardly dampened his hair, feeling a combination of egg and the lingering remnants of the hair styling products from earlier as he went. He grimaced, not liking the sensation.

It wasn't the easiest thing he'd ever done, but he managed a fair effort at washing his hair in the sink and the used a small hand towel from the stack available to get some of the water out. Once he'd removed the poncho and made a half-hearted effort at combing his hair into order with his fingers, he left. He had little doubt it would dry into messy spikes but it wasn't something he could control.

Akashi was waiting for him outside the door. Kuroko closed it behind him, tilting an inquiring look in Akashi's direction – he'd managed to escape any damage and so didn't need to use the facilities.

"Did you know your egg was raw, Kuroko?" Akashi's voice held mild curiosity.

Kuroko shrugged. "No. I didn't want to risk losing more points though." His eyes widened briefly before he understood and thought back to Akashi's willingness to tempt fate with an egg against his forehead. "You knew your egg was a hardboiled one, Akashi-kun?"

Akashi nodded. "Hanamiya did too. We held ours longer to test it – there's a difference in the feel. I am surprised you didn't know; you have a fondness for hardboiled eggs as I remember it."

A slightly self-deprecating look crossed Kuroko's face and his reply acknowledged the truth of that. "I do. I just didn't think of it." He shrugged, not bothered by the results. "Congratulations, Akashi-kun. I know it's not official yet, but it seems you win today, yes?" He held out a hand in mirror of their ending of the Winter Cup, and Akashi's eyes flickered to his face.

Akashi reached to accept the gesture but rather than simply shake Kuroko's hand, he tugged Kuroko forward and caught him after the minor stumble. Kuroko blinked up at Akashi but didn't pull back, trusting him to have a reason for this unexpected occurrence. He leaned forward so that there was barely any space between them and he could smell the clinical soapy smell that now clung to Kuroko's hair.

Even though they might be discovered at any moment, Akashi moved his lips to just above Kuroko's ear. "I haven't won what I really want yet, Kuroko." He ignored his own mental protests - it was not the right moment – and certainly not the right place as an airplane lavatory did not make for an especially suitable backdrop in his mind. Instead of acknowledging his own advice, Akashi turned his head and kissed Kuroko; and even though Kuroko was surprised and tensed for a moment, he found himself relaxing into it. Akashi kissed the same way he did everything else; and Kuroko was swept up into the assured, charismatic phenomenon that comprised Akashi's kisses. Unlike earlier, when Akashi had pressed a chaste kiss to his cheek, this time his intention was not mere affection. Even lacking experience, Kuroko could tell there was something more here, something that wavered between a promise and a claim.

Neither of them noticed the brief wave of the curtain as it settled back into place, or heard the quiet footsteps retreating.

Akashi released him after what seemed only heartbeats – granted, they were occurring rather more quickly than normal - but he didn't step back. He threaded a few fingers through Kuroko's dampened hair and a small smile took hold. "You look rather shell shocked Kuroko. I'll hope it is a compliment." He hadn't made it a question but Kuroko heard it as one anyway.

Kuroko had no way to know that with his mussed hair, bright eyes, and flushed expression he was the picture of temptation. What he did know was that Akashi had changed the rules again and he didn't entirely know what to make of it.

It took Kuroko a moment to find his voice and when he did, it was a simple enough reply, "You are always competitive, Akashi-kun."

The sound that escaped Akashi was something like a chuckle – if it had been dipped in velvet. "Yes, I suppose that is true. A topic for another time, then." Hearing the murmur of conversation from flight attendants as they approached the staff area, he gestured forward to indicate they should leave. Nodding, Kuroko went ahead and made his way down the aisle, unaware he was still a bit disheveled and that it would cause some consternation from his seatmates when he returned.

As Akashi retook his seat, Mayuzumi sent a searching glance his way, having tracked Akashi's progress back once he'd cleared the staff area. Akashi had emerged after a relatively short span of a time, but Mayuzumi's eyes were too observant to have missed Kuroko's exit and the state in which he'd departed. Well then, it would seem that perhaps Kuroko would have a different answer now, should they hold another round of personal questions and answers that is. Mayuzumi idly drummed his fingers against his thigh as he calculated the remaining flight time. They had about five and a half hours left; the games had taken up a good wedge of time. They were still waiting for the announcement of the winner even though it was obvious Akashi would be named in that honor. Still, a lot could still happen. He supposed it would depend how many people were watching for Kuroko to pass and took note of him – it was sure to raise the hackles of at least a few of the potential admirers at least. A brief smile shot across his face as he wondered how Kagami would react when Kuroko got back to his seat– and to what he might attribute the cause.