A/N: First fanfiction here so I hope it goes ok! It's basically Kai's thoughts surrounding the events in the Russian tournament during the first season – hardly original I know =P So please R&R and enjoy!

Disclaimer: I wish I owned Beyblade, but I don't. Grrr!

The Dark of Russia

Russia. Russia was perhaps one of the only aspects of the world I had grown to love, even though I am reluctant to acknowledge any existence of that particular emotion. Yes, I would say I love Russia, Moscow even more so.

One of the particular characteristics that were the most captivating for me was how, during daylight hours, the great city appeared, in some way harmless, nothing out of the ordinary. It was the atmosphere of many civilians bustling around doing whatever they had to do on an ordinary day that gave the place a heart warming feel, I thought.

However, when the sun sets and the piercing glow of the sun disappears, if the sky is not overcast of course, the dark enfolds Russia and holds it tight – protecting it from the light that had left barely minutes before. Within these dark folds the dark side of the vast city, as I would call it, would emerge. Black market deals would be made, hidden from the sharp eyes of the police that patrolled the streets at every hour. They were organised, very organised, but they themselves, would not dare venture from the areas of the streets that were highlighted dimly. This was probably why most were afraid of the alleys and the depth the lack of light contributed to them.

I also love the overshadowed buildings, however, they were more efficient than beautiful but they themselves did add to the edge Moscow held. That was where I was at that time, admiring Russia's beauty from a shadow of a hotel I happened to be staying in away from the wandering eye, alone. I appreciated the time I had alone with Russia – my home.

I was so entranced by the sight and enveloped by my thoughts that I vaguely noticed the ice-cold snow flakes falling elegantly around me – some to settle and create the long winter effect Russia had and some were to melt to small droplets each which glittered like diamonds from a small light hidden from me.

My attention was drawn from the city to the hotel I was staying in. I was here for the moment, for the World Championships as it were. The Championships, I thought, should hardly have been a challenge until now, though my team made it a little more difficult than was necessary. However, I had looked forward to competing in Russia. I had grown up there – became even more mesmerised by its dark beauty by each swing of the pendulum.

Despite some regrets of little progress I held of past matches I believe my team hold a fair chance. Though I do regret I may not compete myself. It was one of those hidden thoughts of mine that Russia brought out. Even more eerie was the feeling that I may compete myself. However, I don't know how that could be. At least I think I don't.

My refreshed trance with the city that held a great part of me was cut short once again by its habit of being disturbed by the loud, and this time, intolerable television from the next room, which was just out of sight. My team; Tyson, Max and Kenny were staring idly at the box, well, excluding Kenny – he was trying to persuade them to go to bed like Rei had only an hour before.

At least the kid has some sense. I thought quietly to myself. I once again turned my attention back to Moscow. The sound and essence of the capital was intoxicating – it was around me, within me ... It took me a while to realise that through my tiredness I was slowly falling asleep. It was time for rest, I thought.

As I made my way into the white painted room I unfortunately heard Tyson's loud, crude remarks as Kenny's vain efforts failed time and time again. I sometimes amazed myself with how I could put up with some of them. They may mean well but still ....