A/N:Special thanks to my very first reviewer Darial Kuznetsova, that one little line got me grinning like an idiot and prompted me to put up this chapter so soon. Thanks Darial!
Warning:I forgot to include this one in the first chapter but there will be yaoi, nothing graphic though and for now I have only one couple planned.
Disclaimer:I don't own Beyblade and I know you want me belongs to pitbull.
Enjoy.
"Why aren't we going to the BBA again?"
"Jonathan stop whining it is un…"
"Uncouth yeah I get it."
Robert gritted his teeth.
"It is unbecoming for someone of our status to whine like a little child in want of candy."
Johnny waved it aside.
"I get it Robert, but why are we going to some sports field instead of the BBA building? It's been raining dogs for days now, we're all going to get drenched and get mud all over us."
"You mean you haven't heard?" Enrique's eyes lit up; if there was one thing the Italian loved more than girls it was gossiping.
"Heard what?"
"Apparently Tala threw a fit in the big conference room a week ago, you know the one with the picture of G-Rev? Well the whole room was in pieces when he left."
Roberts's brow furrowed, "What does Ivanov having a temper tantrum have to do with us gathering at the sports field? Surely there are more conference rooms in the BBA Head building."
"I was getting there," Leaning forward Enrique lowered his voice, his smile growing by the second.
"Oh here we go," Oliver muttered softly as he leaned back in his seat next to the smiling blond who was obviously in his element.
"I got this from Julia who got it from Mathilda who talked on MSN with Michael who was told by Max, who overheard his parents, that Tala reacted very badly to some news he got from Mr. Dickinson."
He was met with blank stares from his teammates.
"That's it?" Johnny asked disbelievingly, "That's your whole revelation? That Tala reacted badly to some news he got? The guy's insane, the whole of those damn Cossacks are, but he wouldn't trash a room for nothing Enrique."
"Judy said," He bit back irritated, "if you guys interrupt me one more time I swear I'm not going to finish, that the…"
Oliver snorted.
"What?"
"You always say that you're not going to finish but the truth is you love this way too much to carry out that threat Rique."
"I do not."
"Yes you do."
"I do not."
"Yes you do."
"Anyway according to Judy the news that…"
"See, I told you so."
"Shut up."
"Quit this bickering you two, it is un…"
"Uncouth yes we know."
Robert growled, "Unbelievably immature."
Johnny snickered.
"Can I go on now? According to Judy they already know Tala isn't going to like their announcement one bit, they are apparently afraid that he will trash another room so they decided to bring us to a place where the eh, damage stays limited, if he decides to have another fit again."
"They what? They are seriously sending us out in this weather because Mister-All-My-Social-Qualities-Have-Crawled-Up-My-Arse-And-Died-There won't like what they have to say?"
"There's no need to scream Johnny, we're all perfectly capable of hearing you when you speak with a normal volume."
"Oliver."
"Oui?"
"Shut up."
"Non."
"Do you also happen to know why Ivanov deemed it necessary to demolish that room?"
All eyes turned to Robert, who looked indignantly at the raised eyebrows, "What?"
"If I recall correctly last time captain you, and I quote, said that: "Gossiping was an uncouth and low activity only practiced by the vile of heart," what made you change your opinion?"
He huffed: "My opinion remains unchanged, and I'm not fishing for some lewd details like you like to do Enrique, I merely want to know why my team is going to catch pneumonia for some delinquent in dire need of anger management."
Johnny rolled his eyes, "Sure, Robert, just keep telling yourself that."
The purple-haired aristocrat ignored him and turned to Enrique, "Well? Do you know?"
The blond hesitated a moment before leaning forward again.
"That's the thing, no one knows, Max thought he heard something about a guest but he wasn't sure, all I know is that Tala must have been furious, it wasn't like last time at Tyson's dojo. That time it was more like: mess with me and face the consequences, like in a lesson, Max heard something about him loosing complete control and about being lucky that there were no injuries."
Johnny whistled, "Man that is one scary thought, Tala loosing complete control I mean, seeing that his mental stability isn't all that reassuring when he is in control."
Oliver let out a dramatic sigh, "Now I need to know! I can't stand not knowing!"
Enrique looked thoughtful, "well, we could always try Daichi or possibly Kevin later, I'm sure they could get it out of Ian."
A strangled sound next to Robert got everyone's attention.
"Are you insane?" Johnny wheezed, "The three of them could prank the Devil and get away with it, remember last time? They set my kilt on fire!"
"You have to admit, they can be pretty funny, the sight of Rick with pink hair will always be engraved in my memory at least," Oliver said snickering.
"You only say that because they have never pranked you," in an afterthought Johnny muttered, "not yet anyway."
"I agree with Jonathan, the three of them should under no circumstances be left together without supervision."
"Master Jurgen we are almost at our destination, do you want me to accompany you sirs?"
"No Gustav it is alright, just tell the driver to let us out as close to the field as possible."
"As you wish sir."
Enrique bit his lip as he looked out of the black tinted windows of the limo, " I know that geography has never been my best subject but I'm sure it isn't normal to rain this much in Japan at this time of the year, this is almost worse than when I visited you in Scotland Johnny."
Oliver shrugged and leaned back in his seat, "Just ask Kenny or Emily later Rique."
Enrique snorted, "No thanks, Kenny is okay but I'm not looking forward to an extract from the encyclopedia, and you know how I feel about Miss Snotty."
Robert rolled his eyes, "Are you seriously going to dislike every female that does not fall for your charm?"
The Italian bristled, "First of all, I don't want her to fall for me and second you have to admit that she is an arrogant bitch, remember how she thought of Kai as "a specimen"? Come on, how sick are you if you think of another human as a fucking specimen?"
"First of all, watch your language Tornatore, second you don't talk about a lady like that and third Miss York is simply a driven scientist with a passion for the sport, it is not like she would turn people into lab rats in the name of science."
"You know Robert, the way you defend her I would say someone has a crush." Johnny grinned, amethyst eyes shining with mischief.
"I do not have a crush on Miss York, Jonathan I am simply doing my job as a gentleman to…"
"Emily and Robert, sitting in a three, K-I-S-S-I-…"
"The maturity level in here is dropping by the minute."
Oliver flashed him a grin, "Ahw, come on Robert admit it, somewhere deep within that with etiquette filled heart of yours you secretly love us for who we are."
He was saved from answering by Gustav who opened their door, "Here you are sirs, have a pleasant gathering and just call when you need me."
"Thank you Gustav."
"Finally! Their Royal Tardiness's have arrived."
"Good afternoon to you too Parker and, seeing as we are all not ruling members of a throne line, the correct title would be Their Grand Ducal Tardiness's, but then again I would have been surprised if a Yankee like yourself would know anything about royalty."
Michael opened his mouth to protest but he was dragged away by Emily.
"Since when did you start sounding like Robert Johnny?"
Johnny grinned at Enrique from underneath the umbrella he shared with Robert.
"It sounded cool didn't it? I bet that Parker didn't understand half of that."
"I bet you didn't understand half of that either Jonathan."
He and Oliver laughed as Johnny hurried to keep up with Robert's long strides.
"Oliver! Enrique! Over here!"
A panicked expression flitted over Oliver's face as he recognized the voice.
"Shit, what do I do Enrique?" The little Frenchman edged closer to his friend as they neared the two girls.
"I don't know what to say to her!"
The reason for Oliver's distress was Mathilda, see, sweet little shy Mathilda had the hots for sweet little merry Ollie over here, who was by now clinging to his best friend.
Enrique snorted, "You could just come out you know."
That was the problem, Oliver liked Mathilda but he didn't want to hurt her feelings by telling her that he never would like her in that way
"Personally I can't understand how stupid she is, I mean, you are practically the embodiment of gay, the way you walk, the way you talk, the way you dress, it all basically screams...Owh."
An elbow colliding with his ribcage cut him off.
"Could you talk any louder?"Oliver hissed as his grip on Enrique's arm tightened with every step they got closer to the waving girls.
"Just relax Oliver, it's going to be fine and now we're on the topic is there someone special you like? You know that you can always tell us, as long as it isn't someone like Bryan we won't mind."
He stopped dead in his tracks as he noticed the tomato like color Oliver's face had adapted.
"Please tell me you don't like Bryan, I beg you Ollie."
"Bryan is hot but what do you mean with we? You're the only one I ever told!"
"Don't get your panties in a twist drama queen, I would never tell anyone and I meant that we, as in the team would support you when you decide to tell them, but seriously, you think Bryan is hot?"
Oliver snorted, "Have you ever really looked at the guy? Of course I think he's hot, all of team Neoborg are, Spencer is just one walking muscle, Tala is the pretty boy and he has the most gorgeous eyes I've ever seen, not to mention that he is an artist's dream to paint, Bryan is the perfect mix, muscled but refined and even Ian is in his own little way too, and oh, not to forget that all four of them are very well packaged."
"You okay man?" Miguel asked him wearily as Enrique thumbed his chest; he wasn't the only one giving him a funny look as he was choking on nothing.
He nodded and quickly went after Oliver.
"That were way too many details il mio amico."
"I'll remember that one the next time you start describing Briana what's her name mon ami."
"How the hell do you know all this?"
"I saw them naked."
If it hadn't been for Brooklyn Enrique was sure he would have skidded right into the particular large puddle in front of him. He thanked the smiling prodigy before turning back to Oliver.
"You saw the whole of team Neoborg naked and you're still alive? When the hell did that happen and how come you didn't tell me?"
"I accidentally walked into their changing room during the February Charity Matches and I didn't tell you because at the time you still thought I was straight so I figured you wouldn't appreciate a rant on Bryan's abs."
"Oliver."
"Oui?"
"I have never thought of you as straight."
"Thanks Enri, I can practically feel the love."
"You say it like it's a bad thing and don't call me Enri."
"Why not? You don't mind Rique."
"Rique doesn't remind me of the uncle I was named after, but you're avoiding the question."
"Which question?"
Enrique rolled his eyes, "The one I asked before you confessed that team Neoborg is the main theme in your wet dreams, is there someone you like?"
"I don't have wet dreams about team Neoborg Enri."
"So there is someone you like?"
"Hello Oliver."
It was the quiet, little voice of Mathilda that stopped Oliver from snapping; instead, he forced a small smile.
"Hallo Mattie, Julia." He nodded to both girls, the latter huffed.
"It sure took you long enough."
"We were discussing team Neoborg Juls." Julia's eyes lit up, she was if possible even worse than Enrique when it came to gossip.
"They sure are something aren't they? Tala's antics are the topic of the day."
"Well it is rather ridiculous isn't it?" Enrique made a wide gesture motioning towards the sea of umbrellas, "All of this just because of one team."
It was a rather miserable sight indeed, more than thirty teenagers gathered on a muddy sports field, huddled together underneath umbrellas and not a sign of the downpour decreasing. Feet squelched in the mud with every step that was taken and profanities were shouted as people slipped or stepped into puddles, yelling to the person next to them that their umbrella was poking them.
"Hey Mr. D is that a new hat?"
On the tribune stood Mr. Dickinson, an umbrella in one hand and a mike in the other, a tired smile upon his face.
"Yes Tyson that is a new hat."
Even from the other side of the field the smug expression of a certain redhead was hard to miss.
"Think he has anything to do with it?" Julia whispered in his ear.
"Oh that's for sure," Enrique muttered back.
The best way to describe the Neoborg team was grim; they were the only ones who hadn't bothered bringing umbrellas, increasing the dark look that hung around the four boys. Spencer had his arms crossed over his chest; his head was angled towards the sky, his eyes closed as if he was relishing the rain. Bryan was standing at his right, a frown upon his face. In a repetitive movement, he kept rubbing the back of his neck; his other hand loosely clenched the shoulder of his youngest teammate. It was a shock to say at least when they had seen a very tanned Ian at the February Charity Matches, the goggles had been gone and he had grown, with his one meter sixty he still was the smallest member of his team but he wasn't one of the smallest bladders anymore. The height and the goggles aside the navy-haired teen hadn't changed one bit and together with Daichi and Kevin he had caused quit some havoc. To see him now, head bowed and shoulders slumped, hands burrowed in his pockets as he dug the nose of his foot aimlessly in the mud, the impish smirk gone and the mischievous sparkle in his eyes dimmed, not paying any heed to Kevin who was feverishly beckoning him, he looked like a complete other boy.
What got people staring, though, was their attire. In the beyblade circle, there was the unwritten and unspoken rule that one wore the same clothing when going to meetings, events or tournaments, it showed who you were, it distinguished you from the rest and in the same time, it generally connected you to your team. American and proud of it, the All Starz attire practically screamed it. Noble aristocrats, the proper designer clothing gave the Majestics away. The multicultural bunch that formed G-Revolution was depicted in their chosen clothing. Born and raised to live for the cheer of the crowd, the costumes of F-Dynasty couldn't have been clearer. The traditional garments worn by the White Tigers left no doubt of their proud neko-jin heritage. Team BEGA, their clothes told all, representing the five completely different individuals with different backgrounds and personalities the team was made out of. The Battalion, casual T-shirts and trousers but with an almost futuristic look, representing them oh so well, just some regular teens putting up some scene they don't believe in themselves, and then there was team Neoborg.
The thick material and the heavy boots betraying their hailing from the land of snow and ice, shoulders large and intimidating, the almost military look giving away their rank in the team. Simple green for the loyal soldiers that were Ian and Spencer, blood red for the second hand, the falcon's attire resembling those of a pilot and lastly Tala, his top inspired by the Russian generals of centuries ago.
To see them like this, without their regular battle attire was insulting and worrying at the same time, insulting that that mute but by all respected rule could go to hell if it was up to them, worrying because they couldn't be bothered anymore to keep up the façade, like they were too tired to do so. Both Spencer and Bryan were clad in worn out boots, faded jeans and thick sweaters, whilst Bryan's was black with the complicated logo of some band printed on it, Spencer wore a simple one of a dark blue color, the sleeves rolled to his elbows. With his hair tied back into a neat, low ponytail, and wearing a blue, long-sleeved turtleneck together with grey pants and black sneakers Ian looked like the perfect schoolboy, and then there was Tala. Clad in all white he stuck out like a sore thumb but at the same time blended perfectly together with his team, like the eccentric captain of a pirate ship, distinguishing himself and at the same time mixing with his crew. He stood straight, head held high, his hands had formed lose fists at his side, his trademark devil horn hairstyle replaced by a ponytail.
They stood aside, apart from the rest, four brothers unrelated by blood but bonded closer then the red liquid of life ever could.
"Now that you are all gathered here I would like to…"
Enrique immediately tuned out; he had heard enough of Mr. Dickinson's speeches to know that he first would praise all of them for their past achievements before starting on the actual topic.
He looked around him, most of the faces he could see had the same bored expression as him and he could count the ones who were actually interested on his hand.
Garland, Robert, Emily, Kenny and Tala, the latter's eyes narrowing dangerously.
"After much persuasion we convinced the government of Japan that all the previous troubles had been caused by team sponsors and mentors and not by the actual bladers themselves, therefore we are allowed to host a new tournament."
Loud cheers erupted after that, the bored expressions around him turned into smiles.
Enrique felt his own face lift up, an elated feeling spreading through his body as he looked at the beaming faces around him.
For a long time it was questioned if there ever would be another tournament again, government officials and child protection services alike had voiced their concern whether it was safe or not to encourage the sport to children. The BBA had started slowly with small charity matches, the one in February being the biggest beyblade event since Brooklyn's apocalyptic burst of insanity almost a year ago.
"I'm glad that all of you are as excited as I hoped but there is one restriction, no new teams are to be entered this year to prevent thwarting from outside. This is your chance to prove the world that they are wrong and it is your duty to make sure that the next generation of our world will be able to enjoy the sport like you do now." The old face wrinkled as his smile widened.
"All of you are great sportsmen, from the old faces that have been in the professional business for over six years," A nod towards team Neoborg, "To the new ones who have only experienced one world tournament yet," A nod towards The Battalion, former BEGA and F-Dynasty.
"However, you might be sportsmen foremost, secondly you are entertainers, and the thing is the fans know all of you, they know who you are and how you battle, therefore, to give the fans something new to watch, we decided to mix things a bit."
The rain drew out most of the murmuring as Enrique screwed his eyes close. Please don't let him say what I think he is going to say.
"We have decided that in the New Hope Tournament that will be hosted coming June the teams will be mixed."
All hell broke loose.
"This is pathetic," Ian muttered softly as he wrapped his arms around himself.
"You're losing your edge squirt."
Ian looked up at Bryan who grinned at his shivering form and snorted, "I've spent almost a year in South-America Bryan, one tends to get accustomed to the climate after such a period of time."
"It has made you weak Ian, you used to be able to stand the cold a hell lot better, just wait till we're back in Russia."
Seeing the expression on the younger boy's face Spencer ruffled his hair.
"Don't worry Ian, in three years we will go home, no matter what."
"I'm just sorry that I'm tying you guys here for so long."
"Brazil really made you weak," sneering Tala looked over his shoulder at his team, "We would wait ten years for you just like you would wait ten years for us, so get your act together and stop acting like a fucking crybaby."
While the Russians were having this conversation, Hiro had jogged up to the tribune and token hold of Mr. Dickenson's microphone.
"Listen closely you brats, you all should be grateful that there is an actual tournament to attend so if you don't like it don't participate."
This got most of them to calm down or shut up with the exception a few like Johnny, Michael and unsurprisingly his own brother who he just send withering glares before snatching a crumbled paper out of his pocket.
"This is the Teams list, members have been chosen at random and there is no room for discussion, everyone stays with their designated team during the tournament, there will be no team changing like in the previous years, again, don't like it don't participate. You've all got one week to notify the BBA if you don't want to be signed up, after this week it isn't possible anymore to withdraw from the tournament without a damn good reason, got it everyone?"
He took the grudging silence as a yes and unfolded the paper.
"Team one will consist out of: Ray Kon, Michael Parker, Miguel Piedra and Oliver Polanski."
"Not bad, Ollie," Mathilda whispered.
Oliver answered with a smile, "Not bad at all."
"In team two are: Kevin Cheng, Mystel Chrysou, Ian Papov and Daichi Sumeragi"
Enrique smirked, "Seems like Johnny's nightmare has come true."
"Team three: Mathilda Alster, Ming Ming Love, Johnny McGregor and Max Tate."
In team four are: Kai Hiwatari, Robert Jurgen, Garland Siebald and Lee Wong.
Team five: Rick Anderson, Moses Crusher, Spencer Petrov and Gary Tan"
"Random my ass," Enrique couldn't help but mutter as the names of the four giants were called.
"Team six: Julia Fernandez, Bryan Kuznetsov, Mariah Wong and Emily York."
Bryan's eyebrow twitched.
"Team seven: Tyson Granger, Tala Ivanov, Brooklyn Masefield and Enrique Tornatore."
His mouth fell open as he looked his new captain, Tala looked unfazed, bored even.
I'll have psycho as my captain?
Ignoring the sympathetic glances he got from his friends, he shook his head; at least Brooklyn and Tyson weren't so bad, not his favorite people but he could get along with them.
"And at last, team eight consists out of: Claude Aguila, Raul Fernandez, Aaron Olvidado and Eddy Wheeler."
Putting away the list the oldest Granger brother let his piercing glance slide over the grumbling teens before continuing.
"Look, we aren't happy with this either but we don't have any choice, think this all over and contact the BBA if you don't want to participate. I suggest that you meet up with your new team somewhere this week so you can decide who plays in what position, as soon as your new captain has notified us of this you will receive a folder with further instructions."
A suffocating silence followed, not a muscle was moved not a letter muttered, no one wanted to be the one to break it, to be the one who made the first move.
Suddenly very self-conscious Hiro swallowed, feeling every single pair of eyes glaring up at him.
The rain kept pounding down at them, as if it was mocking them with the constant pitter-patter it made on their umbrellas.
"Oh for heaven's sake!"
The sudden flash of white got everyone's attention, with four long strides Tala had made his way to the front of the tribune.
Piercing ice blue eyes searched the crowd for his new teammates, making everyone who his eyes locked with shiver.
"Granger, Masefield, Tornatore, follow me." The order was spoken calmly, his voice had hardly risen, but all of them had heard it and they knew it left no room for discussion.
Knowing they would obey he spun on his heel without looking if they were following him and headed for the street opposite the field, people automatically formed a path as they scrambled away when he stormed by.
Leaving Oliver to share an umbrella with Mathilda Enrique hurried to keep up with the quickly disappearing redhead.
"Where did he go?"
He had rounded the corner of the street where Brooklyn and Tyson were already looking for their new captain.
"Man Tala, this is not funny, dude where are you!"
"Tyson don't shout, knowing him it will only make him walk faster."
"There he is!" To his right Enrique had spotted a flash of read vanishing into an ally.
They kept on running but Tala continued to stay just out of their grip, leading them through narrow alleys and deserted byways, sometimes disappearing completely out their line of vision safe for a flicker of shocking red or brilliant white against the grey haze of the rain and the rapidly blackening sky. Like a memory or dream of which you could only recall a glimpse, tangible but every time you reach out it only darts further away, leaving you frustrated but more determinate than ever to find the complete dream.
"We lost him." Brooklyn was right, no matter which direction they looked at any sign of Tala stayed out.
"Do you guys know where we are?"
Brooklyn and Enrique stared at Tyson with raised eyebrows.
"Last time I checked you were the one born and raised in Beycity and we were the mere tourists speaking of which I haven't seen any of those in a while."
He was again right; Tala had led them to the part of town where the small streets were only roamed by a handful of locals and the occasional stray dog.
I know you want me, want me
You know I want cha, want cha
I know you want me
You know I want cha, want cha
(Ha ha ha)siRumba,
One two three four
Uno do' tres cuatro
Rumba, si
Ella quiere su Rumba, como?
"This is Enrique…."
"Tornatore look behind you."
Surely there he was, sitting at the back of a little cafe, a single blood red eyebrow raised as he closed his mobile phone.
With his steel toed, calf length boots, tight trousers and the wet button down shirt clinging to his body together with his fingerless gloves and multiple golden earrings Tala looked like a cross between a rock star and some Indiana Jones figure, and was that black nail polish?
"What the hell dude, are you wearing eyeliner?"
Tala didn't look up as he was busy rolling up his sleeves.
"Technically I'm wearing guyliner, but yes Granger, mascara and eye shadow too before you ask. Now why don't you take a seat before your drinks get cold."
Tala himself sipped from something what looked like coffee in a tall eared glass, opposite him a small teapot was placed which was obviously meant for Brooklyn, who gingerly took his seat across from the suddenly make-up wearing male. This left two mugs which both appeared to contain hot chocolate milk. Tyson and Enrique stared at each other, neither of them wanting to be the one sitting next to the eccentric redhead. Seeing their discomfort, said devil smirked and patted the seat next to him.
"The cappuccino choc shock is for the little gladiator."
Gritting his teeth Enrique sat down, keeping as much distance as possible from the booths other occupant.
"Contrary to popular belief I don't bite Tornatore."
"That still doesn't make you any more of an agreeable person Ivanov."
"True."
Lazily he stretched out; giving a view Oliver would have killed for to see. The first few buttons of his shirt were undone, revealing the smooth collarbone, not that the wet material hid anything really, everything was shown from his muscled form to the piercing in his nipple and the blue color of the tattoo on his shoulder. Taking full advantage of the space provided by Enrique he spread his legs and slung one arm around the back of the booth before taking a sip of his beverage.
"Isn't that Irish coffee?"
"Yes Masefield, why ask?"
"Doesn't that contain whisky?"
"Your point being?"
"Do you really think it's wise to drink alcohol at two in the afternoon?"
"You do realize you're asking a Russian?"
"If you're done playing twenty questions could you explain why we're here?" Enrique snapped, the Italian was sending both redheads irritated glares.
"But of course, I wanted to arrange a time for us to meet so we could discuss training schedules and accommodation for Brooklyn."
Tyson choked on his hot chocolate.
"You what! You dragged us through half of Beycity just to arrange a time?"
The smirk grew wider.
"Yes, and to treat my new team in the best café this city has to offer, how does Saturday sound to you?"
He was met with three equally dumbfounded stares.
"Saturday it is then, I was thinking about meeting at the park, you all know where to find it right? Granger you should, seeing as you live here. Masefield, considering your affinity with birds I take it you already visited it multiple times am I right? No doubt your driver has GPS Tornatore and otherwise you're rich enough to catch a cab, now excuse me I have to make a call."
The three of them stared perplexed as he wiped out his phone again.
"BBA Japan? Do you speak English? A bit, oh that will do. This is Tala Ivanov speaking, I would like to secure the positions in my team for the New Hope Tournament, okay I'll wait."
"Who, what, who the hell made you team captain!"
The phone was lowered and Enrique swore that if that smirk got any bigger Tala's face would break.
"You when you chose to obey my order and follow me through half of Beycity.
Yes, I'm still here, Brooklyn Masefield will be second in command and I'll be captain. So that's settled then? Great, I'll expect to see the folder before Wednesday, okay, pleasant afternoon to you too sir, bye."
Snapping the phone shut, he cocked an eyebrow at Tyson.
"Why so surprised Granger?"
"You can't do this! We have to decide as a team and, and, and I'm world champion!"
"We could have talked for days to decide the positions and we still would have come to the same conclusion, neither you nor Tornatore have any experience as a captain whereas I was chosen from over five hundred pupils to not only become the captain of his team but to be raised to be the general of Boris' new world and as he probably is the most skilled blader to have ever walked this world it would only be natural for Brooklyn to be the second in command. As to your title as undefeated world champion, let me tell you Granger Lady Luck has been dealing you some very fortunate hands during the years."
Finishing off the last of his Irish Coffee, he stood up and threw them three cards.
"My address, phone number and email, I expect you to be at the park entrance eleven o'clock sharp coming Saturday.
D'osvidanya."
With that, he walked away.
"Did he just compliment me?" Brooklyn had been in the progress of filling his cup when Tala had started his explanation; the teapot was still raised in midair as the prodigy was too stunned to do anything else beside blink.
"I think he did," Enrique said as he slowly brought his drink to his lips. He had to give it to Tala, the beverage was one of the best he'd ever had and considering this came from a boy who had been smothered by the best of the best since birth this was saying something.
The strong smell of Brooklyn's herbal tea wafted towards him as they remained silent. Enrique scrunched his nose, he had always hated tea with a passion, the scent alone could make him retch so he wished that the teen would just hurry up and drink the stuff instead of just stare at it blankly.
"That was… interesting."
"It sure was, now Brooklyn why don't you drink your tea before it gets cold."
Teal eyes looked up at him surprised at his tone but he took the hint and brought the cup to his lips. On any other day Enrique would have felt guilty for snapping at someone so kind as Brooklyn but today didn't give it a second thought.
"We just got tested."
Both turned their heads to Tyson, who was sulking above his almost empty mug of hot chocolate.
"We followed him through the rain like some frickin' dog would follow his owner."
Enrique stared at the moping teen, that was one way to put it.
"You heard him Tyson, if it is true what he said he was raised to be a general since a young age, it lays in human nature to follow someone like that."
Leaning back in his seat Enrique sighed and rubbed his temple, Brooklyn had a point there, the possibility of Tala not being captain hadn't even crossed his mind once, the idea of the Russian following orders from any of them seemed rather ridiculous now he thought of it.
Tyson huffed as he voiced this opinion.
"I know that, I'm not a complete idiot you know, I just don't like his higher-than-thou attitude and the way he proclaimed himself captain."
"There isn't much that we can do about it," Brooklyn mused as he nursed his second cup of tea, "We can only wait for Saturday to see what happens and from there we will decide our course of action for the coming seven months."
Nodding Enrique couldn't help but wonder how someone who nearly destroyed the world because he couldn't handle something as basic as loosing could be such a voice of reason.
I know you want me, want me, you know I want cha, want cha, I know you want me…
"Enrique Tornatore spea…oh it's you Robert."
"Is Ivanov still there? Are you alright and where are you?"
Wincing at the harsh tone of his captain he pinched the bridge of his nose. Robert was all politeness and etiquette's but when he was worried he was not someone you wanted to cross.
"Yeah I'm fine, we all are, Tala just left us in a small café but I haven't the foggiest where we are."
"The card."
"What?"
"Look at the menu card, most of the time you can find the address somewhere on it."
"Oh the card, right."
Said item had already appeared in his line of vision as it was held up by Brooklyn.
"Eh, okay, Tyson can you see the address somewhere on it?
Ryuu what? Bloody Japanese, Ryuunosuke 41, Robert did you get that?"
"Yes, now all three of you stay where you are and we will come and get you."
"But Robert I don't think…" the line was broken, "that the limo will fit in the street."
Tired he buried his face in his arms, refusing to look up at the two teens opposite him.
He ignored the soft footsteps of an approaching waiter and the rapid Japanese that followed between him and Tyson, that was until an undignified shriek assaulted his ears.
"That jerk didn't pay!"
It took some time before the meaning of that sentence settled in his foggy mind.
Taking out a thick wad of money he didn't even bother to look how much yen he pushed into the waiter's hand. Judging by the bulging of the man's eyes and Tyson's jaw practically hanging on the floor he had probably given the man the biggest tip of his life.
"Do you even know how much you just gave him?"
The Tornatore heir shrugged.
"Tell him to keep the change."
If there was one thing the Tornatore family didn't have to worry about it was money and Enrique wasn't about to become the first member to do so.
Hesitantly Tyson conveyed the message to the waiter who started mumbling and bowing feverishly.
"It's okay." With a wave of his hand he dismissed the man without a second glance.
"That was very generous of you Enrique."
Ignoring the prodigy Enrique knocked the last of his drink back and stood up.
"Where are you going?"
"I'm going to look if the street is wide enough for the limo to drive through."
He dully noted that it was going to be a tight fit but Robert's driver would be able to make it. Not wanting to return to his "teammates" he settled for leaning against the doorpost instead. Shivering he pushed his hands in his pockets, he was drenched, during the chase after Tala he had lost his umbrella and the little time spent in the café had done nothing to dry his clothes. The redhead had led them to the part of Beycity where you didn't want to be seen alone at night, the grimy café being the nicest building in the street. A man in his late forties hurried across the street, his rumpled uniform marking him as one of the numerous construction workers that were still busy with the restoring of Beycity after the Justice Five Tournament. Looking down at his now ruined cashmere shirt, he realized with a pang that his current attire probably was worth more than the man's monthly salary.
The loud honk of a car broke him out of his reverie but he ignored it, Robert's driver would be to dignified to do something as impertinent as honk.
The driver however was rather persistent so after a couple of seconds he looked up rather irritated to see what the racket was about. A white minivan was parked at the end of the street, the thing was old and rusty and it looked like it could fall apart at any given time. The windshield wipers were moving furiously, blurring the still honking driver and his passenger. Slowly the window was lowered, not with the fluent movement of electric windows but with a slightly stiff, faltering movement like the person wasn't all that well accustomed with scrolling it down manually.
"Enrique!"
Said Italian blinked, from all people to poke their head out of that pitiful excuse of a vehicle he sure as hell wasn't expecting Robert.
Shaking his head, he turned to call Brooklyn and Tyson but soon discovered that they were already standing behind him as he collided with Brooklyn's chest.
"Sorry."
"It's okay, now let's get in the car, I've seen enough of this place."
Nodding in agreement he followed the redhead into the minivan where he was greeted by Garland and Hiro behind the wheel.
"Buckle up you three."
Enrique would have been happy to oblige if it hadn't been for his very stubborn seat-belt who refused to be pulled out.
"Damn… thing, why agh!"
"Easy there pall, let me help you."
Very red-faced because he had to be buckled up by Tyson for goodness sake he sent a glare at the general direction of his captain who didn't look all that pleased either.
"So everything alright? How was Tala?"
"His usual sociable self."
"He wasn't that bad Tyson, and he even gave me a compliment coach!"
Hiro's gaze softened and Garland gave him an indulgent smile, "That's great Brook."
The childlike enthusiasm with which this sentence was said was heartbreaking, the teens face had lit up, his eyes sparkling as he gripped the back of Hiro's seat.
Enrique felt his throat clench, meant a single compliment so much to Brooklyn? Had Tala known what that one stray comment could cause or had he said it without thinking?
The entire drive Brooklyn kept on babbling to Garland, who didn't say a word himself but just gave reassuring smiles and once even ruffled the ginger hair affectionately.
"That was…"
"…interesting?" Enrique offered as he and Robert made their way into the hotel lobby.
"Definitely," Robert rubbed his brow, "I still have some errands to run so you can go to your room now, Oliver should already be up. I will see you again at dinner tonight."
"Okay and Robert, don't overwork yourself again."
The German gave him a small smile, "I'll make sure of that Enrique, now go and change out of those clothes before you get a cold."
"Si mamma."
Rolling his eyes Robert walked away.
Receiving some foul looks from various members of the staff he made his way towards the room he shared with Oliver, a muddy trail in his wake.
The petite Frenchman was perched on top of his bed, his feet dangling in the air as he was lying on his stomach.
"I'm going to take a shower."
"Okay."
Judging by the aloof, almost dreamy tone, he was reading something art related. As he grabbed a change of clothes Enrique made a quick mental note to take the book from his friend as soon as he came out of the shower. By the way Oliver remained completely motionless safe for his feverishly moving eyes he knew that the greennette was in one of his "moods" again. This generally meant that he wouldn't shut up all night about whatever new technique or style had caught his interest this time. Enrique didn't mind that, Oliver was actually quite funny in this "stage" of the mood. He would be chatty and practically bounced everywhere all the while flailing his arms with big motions, not to mention that his one tracked mind would make him very blunt so he blurted out the most random things. No, it was the second "stage" of the mood that the Italian was weary of. The little artist would get a certain gleam in his eyes and from there it could go two ways. Oliver would grow deadly quite and become edgy, when he went to bed he would toss and turn the whole night before finally giving in and get out, only so Enrique would wake up at some ungodly hour from the smell of oil paint and white spirit. That or Oliver would jump up immediately and get his materials, somehow Enrique got always roped up in helping him, from crossing half the town to get that one particular type of canvas or that one unique color of paint to actually four hours of sitting still as he had ended up as Oliver's subject.
Stripping down he quickly decided that it was for the best if he stopped his friend while he still was at the first stage.
He turned the water up as hot as he could without burning and stepped into the shower. Ignoring the customary hotel shampoo, he reached for his own. Lathering his hair with it his mind went blank, his shoulders relaxing immediately. He loved showering, to him it was one of the most relaxing things in the world, the only time he was sure he wouldn't be disturbed. Being born in a rich family meant living up to expectations, there was seldom a moment when he wasn't wanted by someone, he might not take it as seriously and eager as Robert but he certainly wasn't a slob, his pride didn't allow him to be so. Only in the shower with the door firmly locked he knew that he would remain undisturbed by maids and his own family alike. It wasn't an unusual occurrence that he would remain in bath for hours, till the water run cold and his skin was welted.
Remembering his best friend and his current mood he grudgingly left the warmth of the shower way earlier than he would have liked. Drying himself with a fluffy towel he looked around the moist bathroom. It was large and decorated lavishly, an inviting looking tub in the right corner opposite from the shower out of which he had just emerged. To most people it would have been the epitome of luxury, but to him it was just another bathroom in just another hotel. Not liking the sudden cold he quickly dressed in simple blue trousers and a long sleeved shirt from the same color. Deciding that he would comb his hair before going down for dinner he exited the bathroom, steam engulfing him like some horror movie creature when he opened the door.
With relief he noted the absence of a certain gleam in his friend's eyes before flopping down next to Oliver.
Propping his head up on his elbow he looked at the still reading figure.
"What are you reading?"
"That book that Johnny gave to me last Christmas."
He grinned, "The porn book?"
"Artistic nude you pervert."
"If you say so."
Oliver's eyes hadn't even left the book once; there was no way he could get him away from the blasted thing if this kept up.
"I think Tala swings your way."
This got and reaction. Oliver looked up at him blinking.
"I beg your pardon?"
"I think Tala swings your way, you know, plays for your tea…"
"Tala? Tala Ivanov, the leader of the Blitzkrieg Boys who was raised in an abbey and who has a two by two pole shoved up his arse with bull shit like emotions are rubbish and victory is life, defeat to our enemies, that Tala?"
"Do you know any other Tala? He was wearing make-up."
"You're kidding me right?"
"No I'm not, nail polish, eye shadow, mascara, eyeliner, no guyliner, the whole deal."
"Tala?"
"Yes, Tala."
They just stared at each other.
"You really aren't joking are you?"
"No I'm not."
"Damn."
"Damn?"
"Yes damn."
"Why damn? Shouldn't you be overjoyed that your wet dream shares your preference?"
"For the last time I don't fantasize over any of the Blitzkrieg Boys, and I don't know just, damn he would be the last one I expected to be that way."
"It would be okay you know, perfectly normal, as you said yourself it are four good looking boys. I mean, I even had a dream about that G-Rev girl once and you know what a witch she can be."
"You dreamed about Hillary?"
"Yeah, those clothes that she wears really don't leave much to the imagination and she does have a cute butt."
"To many details mon ami."
They were silent for a while.
"Enrique?"
"Hmm?"
"Why does every conversation I have with you somehow turn sexual?"
"I'm a teenage boy Ollie, you know, hormones and all that."
Oliver snorted, "And what does that make me? A girl?"
"Gay Oliver, the likes of Robert and Garland together with homosexuals make up the refined part of the male population, making all the straight guys look like barbaric jerks to the female part."
"Hmmp."
He was looking at the book again, but he was flipping the pages rather aimlessly so Enrique didn't worry. Grunting he rolled over so he was now lying on his stomach too. Closing his eyes, he rested his head on his arms.
"How was Tala by the way?"
"He tested us, to see if we would follow he let us chase him through half of the city before we found him in a café where he had already ordered drinks for everyone. After that he called the BBA and just proclaimed himself captain without consulting any of us. Tyson naturally protested and reminded everyone once again that he is world champion, only to get dissed by Tala who left after that without paying and Brooklyn was well…Brooklyn. Did you already speak with your team?"
"Yeah, we're going to meet on Wednesday, they are okay really. I think either Miguel or Michael is going to be our captain but I'm fine with both."
The rustling of paper stopped.
"Pull off your shirt."
Enrique looked up, the gleam was in Oliver's eyes.
"Why?"
Oliver merely jabbed a finger at a picture.
Enrique just blinked. He wasn't a prude, far from it, but that pose was just plain wrong.
"What does that picture have to do with me pulling off my shirt?"
"I need a model."
He stared at the page open mouthed as Oliver hopped off the bed and started gathering his materials.
He was going to kill Johnny.
This was chapter two, I hope I haven't disappointed anyone and my apologies for my lame attempt at humor.
The next chapter will be focused again at team Neoborg and maybe Emily.
Thanks for reading and please tell me what you thought of it, even if you hated it.
~*~
Silent Pandemonium
