Okay, back again guys! Hoping that I can get Chapter 9 out a little more quickly than the last one, especially as I have a much firmer grasp of what I have planned for this chapter. the main protagonist against my OC? of course I was gonna make this as epic as I could XD...so yeah, expect a longer-than-average Chapter as well!

Anyway, let's get this show on the road!
-Lightshock16

Chapter 9 - A Draconic Encounter: Tyson vs. Mark

"Welcome back to the Glitter Dome Beyblading fans! After a fantastic opening match where a new BBA North American champion was crowned, we're finally gearing up for the BBA World championship quarter-final rounds!"
"These 8 beyblader's are the absolute cream of the crop, and they're about to wage all out beyblading war with each other!"

Having taken a slight break between the matches, the crowd's were filling in the stand's once more as the next match was about to begin. Up in the stand's, The bladebreaker gang all watched on, worried looks on all of there faces...well, except Kai's of course.
"What do you think Kenny? does Tyson stand any kind of chance against Mark?" Hilary asked Kenny, now really sounding worried, and sadly Kenny's word's would not ease her feelings.
"I'm afraid I just don't have the data to draw up a valid conclusion Hilary. all we can do is put our faith in Tyson and hope he can come through...like he's always somehow been able to in these situations." Kenny responded, sighing as he ran a hand through his hair.
"Hey, I'm sure it'll be fine. when it come's to going freestyle and just winging things, Tyson's always been the absolute best. I'm sure he's got a plan in mind, and even if he doesn't, He's too stubborn to go down easy." Max said, trying to remain cheerful, but his slightly forced smile was clear indication that under the surface, he shared Kenny and Hilary's fears.
"Hmmm...huh?" Ray had been deep in thought, contemplating Max's words, before he felt movement next to him. He looked up, and saw Lee and Mariah moving to sit next to him.
"Hey Ray. Don't mind us sitting here like before right?" Lee asked them, while Mariah smiled and waved at them all. "Hey guys! You all ready to go?" She said cheerfully.
"heh, 'course not Lee. you're always welcome here with us...and I'm definitely ready, in fact I think I'll have to leave as soona s this match finishes...but there's no way I'm missing this one." Ray said, Grinning at His White Tiger Clan-mates, who nodded in agreement with him.
"No way. I'm eager to see Mark in action from a spectator's view, rather than going up against him...I really want to see him use that power again." Mariah said, clasping her hand's together.
"Speaking of which, Lee, we could use your opinion as well: How do you think Tyson will fare against Mark?" Ray asked his best friend.
"Hmm...well, I actually think Tyson may stand a airly good chance, IF he can take Mark out BEFORE he uses that 'Beast-Fusion' stuff." Lee said calmly, with everyone looking up at him, surprised by how confident he sounded in Tyson.
"Really? you think he could win? what make's you say that?" Hilary asked, curious to Lee's reasoning, although it was Mariah who responded to her question.
"Well, think back to my match with him. When we fought each other while he was still blading normally, we were pretty evenly matched, trading blow after blow. It wasn't until he used that Fusion mode that he got the upper hand against me. If I can give him trouble in a normal match, surely Tyson would be able to get the better of him in one.I'm not afraid to admit he's a better beyblader than me...most of the time anyway" Mariah said, winking at the end of the statement.
"Yes I suppose...but-" Kenny began, but before he could finish his sentence, Kai spoke up.
"He won't battle that way." Kai said coldly to them all, with everyone shooting glances his way.
"Kai...?" Max tilted his head, confused. Lee, Ray and Mariah all had similar look's on their faces.
"Tyson would rather Lose to Mark in his fused state, than Beat him when he's not giving it 100%. It's the natural competitor in Tyson. He want's to fight the best, even if he's severely outmatched by them...and that in the end, could be his downfall...If Mark doesn't use his beast-fusion, Tyson will goad him until he does." Kai finished his word's and then went back to his usual, brooding self. The rest of the group remained quiet as well. Mariah sighed as she turned away, looking down at the arena, Thinking about Mark once again.
'...Mark...I can't wait to see you battle, but be careful. Under-estimating Tyson could be the worst mistake you make...good luck.' She knew that she was probably the only one who secretly was rooting for the British Wyvern, so she kept her thought's to herself.

Meanwhile, Mark was walking towards the Arena entrances, carrying the BBA European title across his Left Shoulder. His game face was on. His happy, cheery persona that he'd displayed while hanging with Mariah and her friend's wasn't on show today. It was as if he truly was a different person when he got to the serious matter of Beyblading.
His eye's however adjusted as he saw someone walking in the opposite direction to him. It was the beyblader he had watched just absolutely wipe the floor with 3 other championship-level beyblader's to claim the BBA North American title, which he was holding at his side. Both of them stopped as they stood side by side with each other.

Brooklyn smiled as he glanced Mark's way, the British Wyvern meeting his glance with one of his own. While Brooklyn's eye's seemed calm, Mark's were cold and Icy as he stared at this beyblader.
"Well, Hello there. Mark Terrazi, The champion of Europe right? Name's Brooklyn...I'll be honest, you intrigue me a lot more than most of the other beyblader's here...you're the only reason I agreed to come win this in the first place." Brooklyn said, glancing down at the North American title in his Right hand. he was still wearing that passive-looking smile, but Mark wasn't fooled. He could tell that the smile was hiding something a lot more...unnerving.
"...I see. Well It's a Pleasure to meet you at last, Brooklyn...or should I now refer to you as 'Champion of America'?" He asked coldly, raising an eyebrow at him. Brooklyn simply chuckled.
"Ahaha...oh I like you. you have a certain...confidence. One that doesn't crumble around me like those other Beyblader's did...you can call me whatever you wish. It really doesn't matter to me...I'm looking forward to watching your battle with Tyson...I REALLY hope I get to see that 'Beast-Fusion' Technique again. That's what has me fascinated about you...good luck 'Champion of Europe'" and Brooklyn continued to walk away from Mark without another word. Mark turned his body slightly to watch Brooklyn walk away, a puzzled, quizzical look on his face...but he decided to let it go for now. Now wasn't the time to fill his head with curious thought's about this odd beyblader. He had a battle to focus on. He turned back to the Entrance and headed toward's it, pushing Brooklyn to the back of his brain, for now.

"Okayyyyy Boys and Giiiirrrllllsss! It's time to get the quarter-final rounds underway at last! YEEHAWWWWW!" Jazzman was clearly pumped up and the crowd shared his enthusiasm, Giving loud and raucous cheers.
"So, just to get the house-keeping out of the way, like the first round matches, the Quarter-finals will be single game, Sudden Death matches, with the winner from each battle moving onto the Semi-Finals! Now without further ado, let's welcome our first quarter-finalist, the reigning Beyblading champion, Tyson!"

Tyson walked out into the stadium, the bright lights shining down on him. He wasn't reacting the same way he had in his match with Daichi. There were no waves to the crowd, no declaration's of victory, or anything like that. Tyson walked to the stadium with a purpose in his eyes. He was taking this one VERY seriously, and this didn't go un-noticed by his friends.

"Wow...I've never seen Tyson looking so...Intense." Max said, watching as Tyson took his position at the stadium.
"Yeah. He's Really taking this one seriously...He must know he's facing an uphill battle here." Ray added, crossing his arms, while Lee and Mariah watched on as well.

Name: Tyson Granger
Bit-beast: Dragoon
Beyblade Stats -
Attack: 4.5
Defense: 0.5
Endurance: 2

"Tyson comes into the quarter-finals after dispatching long-time friend and former tag team partner Daichi! Word in the grapevine is that Daichi has even helped out his former partner with some last minute pep-talks!"
"Nothing in the rules against it Brad! Question is can he and Dragoon Stand up to the Awesome Power of his opponent?"

"And introducing Tyson's opponent! He got to this stage going through Current BBA Women's champion Mariah in convincing Fashion! Give it up for your reigning BBA European Champion, Mark!"

Mark entered the stadium to a...less than favourable reaction. The crowd didn't Boo, but they didn't cheer either. It was just...silence mostly.
"Huh? what's with the cold reception? What's Mark done to them?" Hilary said, seeming a little annoyed at how Cold the Crowd were being to the European Champion.
"I think it's a combination of two things Hilary." Kenny adjusted his glasses before continuing. "Not only is Tyson by far the more popular - and well known - Beyblader, I believe Mariah is a very popular beyblader in America as well. I guarantee a lot of these fan's had hoped to see you here facing Tyson." Kenny said, looking over at Mariah, who blushed a little, not really considering herself all that popular personally.
"M-me? Popular? U-umm...well, even so, they shouldn't be treating Mark with disdain just because he beat me. he beat me fair and square!" Mariah said, frowning a little at Kenny's explanation. Ray and Lee both nodded in Agreement.
"Well, hopefully Mark will be able to win them over in the best way, by giving them a good show." Lee said calmly to the group.

Mark however didn't seem to be all that affected by the cold reception. He just kept his gaze firmly on Tyson as he walked closer to him, the same look of ferocious concentration in his eyes.

Name: Mark Terrazi
Status: BBA European Champion
Bit-beast: Drakefang
Beyblade Stats -
Attack: 2.5
Defense: 2.5
Endurance: 2

"Well, Seem's as though America are still on the fence about our European Champion Huh AJ?"
"Doesn't seem to be bothering The British Wyvern though Brad! He remains' laser-focused on his enemy...Question is, are we gonna see that Gonzo Power Boost we saw him use against Mariah!?"
"Only time will tell AJ, but either way, this promises to be the best battle of the tournament so far!"

Mark finally stood at his end of the bey-stadium, facing Tyson opposite him. The two of them focused their gazes on each other, not speaking any word's, simply letting their eyes do all the communicating. The Intensity in the air was clear to see. Eventually though, a smirk creeped onto Mark's face.
"Heh...Well, I don't think you need me to tell you this...but I've been looking forward to this, Tyson." He unsheathed his sword and pointed it in his opponent's direction. Tyson just smirked back at Mark.
"You're not the only one. I've been itching to blade against you since I found out you were my next opponent...This is what I live for Mark! Battling against the best beyblader's in the world, and beating them! I've been doing it my whole life, and you're just my next opponent that I gotta get through, it's as simple as that!" Tyson grinned, seeming to be his usual, confident self, which didn't go unnoticed by his friends.

"Yeah! That's the Tyson we know! You go buddy!" Max shouted support for his friend down below.
"You can do this Tyson! Show him who's boss!" Hilary joined in and shouted her support for Tyson as well. Mark heard the cheer's as well, and he shot a glance up at them, chuckling a little.
"Heh, Nice fanclub you got there...Still, I admire your Moxie Tyson. you certainly talk the talk...question is, can you walk the walk?" He placed Drakefang on his Sword like before, and got into the same stance he had taken in his first battle. Tyson just grinned as he readied Dragoon on his Launcher, and positioned himself as well.
"I guess you're just gonna have to find out the hard way 'British Wyvern'...Hmmmm." Tyson eyed Mark as, just like in his last battle, he began to take a few steps back. He remembered the strategy that he and Daichi had talked about earlier on:

'"So, you remember that way he launched his Beyblade with his sword Tyson?" Daichi asked his friend, who nodded.
"Yeah, I remember all right. It remind's me of a technique I once used a long time ago to increase the Speed of my Beyblade...Oh! Do you think that-" Tyson immediately realised what Daichi was getting at, and his small friend grinned and nodded.
"Exactly! You may know more about his style of blading than he may realise! use that to your advantage Tyson! Get the upper hand right from the start!" Daichi grinned, and Tyson nodded.
"Gotcha!"'

'So, If i'm right, and he's going to use that running launch again, I'll know his blade will land on the edge of the dish just like it did in the last fight, with amazing rotation speed...but I'll be able to take advantage of knowing that! This battle will be a cinch if I can get the jump on him from the start!'
Tyson smiled as he got ready to launch Dragoon.
"Okay! Look's like both of our competitor's are ready to go! So let's get this first quarter-final match underway!

3...2...1...
LEEEEEET IIIIT RIIIIIP!"

"LET IT RIIIP!" Tyson shouted as he took aim and launched his blade...but Mark suddenly had a smirk on his face. There was no run, no jump to the sky and no mighty swing swing of his blade. Instead, Mark Planted his Left foot firmly into the ground, and twisted around, Slicing his sword in a horizontal motion as he did so, his Beyblade launching in a completely different way than before, much to Tyson's shock.
"W-what the!?"

"He's changed his launch technique! He must've known Tyson would anticipate it, and he's completely thrown him a curveball!" Ray shouted in amazement.
"Incredible!" Lee exclaimed, while Mariah just stared in awe, as did the rest of the group. Meanwhile. Drakefang slammed hard into the side Dragoon, which was immediately put off balance after the bad call on Tyson's part.
"N-no, Dragoon get it together! recover!" Tyson gritted his teeth as the White Beyblade recovered it's momentum, while Mark couldn't help but let out a laugh.
"Hahahaha! C'mon Tyson you didn't think I was THAT predictable did you? A True Professional keep's his moves fresh and unpredictable, regardless If he's wielding a sword or spinning a Beyblade! To that end, I change my launching technique for each battle. I'm afraid you've already lost if you think me that easy to read!" He shouted, while The Gold Beyblade of Drakefang continued to apply serious pressure on the stumbling Dragoon. Tyson growled, annoyed at Mark's confidence and how easily he'd been duped.
"GRRR! Shut it Mark! So what if I made one lousy mistake! this battle's only just beginning!" Tyson's hot-headed attitude flared up, and Mark just smirked as Drakefang suddenly backed off of Dragoon and began to spin in the centre of the Dish.
"Well c'mon then, Give me your best shot!" He suddenly held his sword in a Defensive stance. Just like with Mariah, he was daring Tyson to attack him. Tyson though grinned, as he knew that he could use this to his advantage.
"Heh! Big mistake buddy! I'm coming at you with full force! Dragoon Attack!" Tyson commanded. Dragoon suddenly looked invigorated as it steamed to one side of the Dish, before suddenly Barrelling towards Drakefang at an alarming speed, which even Mark hadn't seen coming.
"W-whoa! GRRRR!" As the White Beyblade Crashed into the Gold one, Mark was visibly pushed back by Tyson's incredible attacking force.
"That's it Dragoon! Keep the pressure on!" Tyson encouraged his Beyblade to keep going, which it did, slamming into Drakefang repeatedly, with Mark having to make defensive moves each time to 'Parry' Tyson's attack's.
"Not bad. You've got a pretty mighty Attack there Tyson...only one issue though. You've got a gaping Blind spot! Take this!" Suddenly Drakefang darted to the left of Dragoon's next attack, dodging it, and then using a 'Riposte' to slam back with an attack of his own.
"Whoa! it's like he has all the bases covered. Attack, Defense, and even speed!...but he's still going down! Let's go DRAGOON!" Tyson shouted loudly.
"Attack DRAKEFANG!" Mark retorted with a battle shout of his own, and the White and Gold beyblade's suddenly began to battle furiously, as the crowd began to seriously get into the match...and Dragoon actually seemed to have a very slight upper hand, it's ferocious attacks making life hard for Drakefang as it had to rely on Speed and Defense to retaliate.

"Whoa baby! It's as if the beyblade's just turned it up to 5th gear!"
"We've got a Serious power struggle here Brad! Mark seem's to be the better all-rounder, but Tyson's ferocious attack power is keeping him and Dragoon in the game!"

"Yeah! Go Tyson! you the man!" Max shouted loudly.
"It's just as you predicted Lee. It's close, but it seem's Tyson is just about getting the better of Mark, at least at this point of the game. Dragoon R seem's to be the slightly stronger Beyblade, even if it give's up Defense." Kenny exclaimed.
"Well, Tyson always was the kinda guy that believed the best Defense was a good Offense I guess...Still, I-" Lee's sentence however was cut off.

"ENOUGH!" The shout had come from, of all people, Tyson himself. Jazzman jumped in shock, and Mark just blinked in confusion.
"W-what?" He tilted his head, confused at Tyson's sudden outburst.
"I didn't come here to fight the Mark who hold's back!...I know your hiding your true Strength from me, and I demand that you stop playing around Fight me properly! I want you to use the same power you used in your match against Mariah!" Tyson shouted, pointing a threatening finger at Mark, who just stared, perplexed at Tyson's demand.

"I knew it..." Kai said quietly, though he shifted as he leaned forward. He clearly wanted to see this as well.
"Tyson No!" Hilary shouted, knowing that this couldn't possibly be a good idea.
"This isn't smart on Tyson's part. Mark seemed fairly happy to battle on without that 'Beast-fusion'." Lee said, crossing his arms, while Mariah just watched on, wondering how Mark would respond.

Mark simply closed his eyes, slowly sheathing his sword. "...Heh, Fine then...I had hoped to enjoy the battle with you a little longer Tyson. I was really starting to get into it...but fine." Suddenly Mark's eyes opened, and he shot Tyson a very intimidating Glare. "If you want me to end this so badly, then I'm more than happy to oblige...just remember, YOU asked for it."
Tyson just gritted his teeth and clenched his fists. "I'd rather lose to you fighting at 100% than even entertain the idea of beating you when you're not even trying!" Tyson shouted at Mark.
"Hmph...Very well...HAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHH!" A Shockwave seemed to blast across the whole Arena, as everyone's eye's widened. Suddenly that Green Aura from before re-enveloped the British Wyvern. Once again, his hair changed from it's usual Dark-blond, to a Darkened Green Hue. His eye's changed in both colour and shape, going from Emerald-Green to Topaz-Yellow, and his pupil's turning to Dragon-like Slits. His Beyblade Emulated his transformed state as it changed from Gold to Dark Green, the same Intense Green aura surrounding it as well. The very air around both Beyblade and Blader seemed to crackle with electricity, as if his power was manipulating the very air around him.
"AHHHHHHHH!...Haaa...haaa…." Eventually Mark stopped shouting as his eye's focused on Tyson...who's confidence had absolutely dissolved as he realised what he had just asked for.
"I-I...I don't even...R-Rate..." He stammered, gulping.

"Incredible...It's even more impressive seeing it from here..." Mariah said, eye's wide in Awe at what she was witnessing.
"...Kenny...does Tyson stand any kind of chance here?" Hilary said, now not just worried that Tyson would lose...she was now worried that Tyson was in danger of getting hurt.
"...No...No this is...I've never seen Reading's like this! It's just mind-blowing...Tyson's finished. He just can't deal with that kind of power!" Kenny said, staring at the laptop screen as if he still couldn't quite believe what he was seeing.
'...He can't deal with that power...unless he uses the very same Power...but how do you do it? How do you Fuse with your bit-beast like this? I HAVE to find out.' No longer content to sit back with his Arm's crossed, This match now had Kai's full attention as he watched intensely. Ray was doing the exact same thing, clearly trying to figure this 'Beast-Fusion' conundrum out in his head.
"...Kenny. make sure you get as much data as you can. we're gonna need it...we just gotta hope Tyson doesn't get completely overwhelemed…" Max said, looking over at Kenny, who nodded.
The remaining quarter-finalists were also watching intensely. Tala, Miguel and Ozuma were all sitting in various part's of the Arena, and they were ALL fixated on the spectacle in front of them.

"In all my year's of covering beyblading sporting Events, this is one of the most amazing thing's I've witnessed AJ!"
"It's Crazy Brad! And look at Tyson! I think he's having second thought's about provoking his opponent now!"

Tyson had his mouth agape at what was in front of him, but he recomposed himself and clenched his fist and gritted his teeth. The now Beast-Fused Mark just gave a confident Grin.
"What?...was it something I said?...or are you only now realising the magnitude of the mistake you just made by pissing me off?..." Suddenly, Mark raised his hand, his palm facing Tyson….and suddenly Tyson felt something hit him. It felt like he had just been given an uppercut by an invisible force as he stumbled back. His Beyblade had been hit with the same invisible wave of energy and was pushed towards the outer rim of the Dish.
"Uhhhh!...Huh!?" As Tyson Stumbled back, he felt himself move into something behind him...but no-one had been standing there. He gasped as he wheeled around. Mark was standing in front of him. Jazzman was staring with his jaw dropped, as was most of the crowd. Had he teleported, or was he just that damn fast?
"Grrr! Stop toying with me!" Tyson growled as he suddenly went to Punch Mark due to his agitation...but his fist met nothing but air, as Mark suddenly vanished. Tyson looked over his shoulder, and there he was, standing opposite him again, still smirking.
"GRRRR! That does it! Dragoon Attack!" He'd had enough of these Games, and So had Dragoon as it charged at the Glowing Green Beyblade, coming in at full force...only to pass straight through the Beyblade!
"W-what the!? Grrr! Attack again! again! AGAIN!" No matter how many time's Tyson tried to attack Drakefang, Dragoon simply passed through the Beyblade as it remained spinning in the center of the beystadium.

"I don't get it! How are none of Tyson's Attacks connecting? His Beyblade is just passing through Mark's as if it's not even there!" Max shouted angrily, clearly annoyed by how little he understood.
"...It's speed...it's all speed. His Beyblade is dodging and then moving back to the center...and it's doing it so quickly that it look's like it's just standing still!" Ray shouted in amazement.
"But...That's physically impossible Ray! No Beyblade is THAT quick!" Lee growled as he watched Tyson continue to attack in Vain.
"No, Ray's absolutely right! I've slowed down the footage and he is indeed dodging then moving back, but so quickly that the human eye can't register it!" Kenny explained to them all. Kai just stared in amazement at what he was seeing, as was Mariah.
"I've never seen anything as astonishing as this...Mark...How are you doing this?"

Eventually, Mark opened his eye's.
"Okay, I think I've made my point clear...I think it's time I finish you off Tyson! HAAHHH!" Suddenly Drakefang charged, and Dragoon was brushed aside with absurd ease as it was sent reeling across the stadium.
"N-no! Fight back Dragoon!"
"You can't fight back! No-one can resist Drakefang's Unlimited power!...now witness your End Tyson! you may recognise what happens next." He smiled, and suddenly, Drakefang began to launch Dragoon into the air, sending it higher, and higher, and higher.

"Whoa, is it just me AJ or am I getting a sense of Deja vu here!?"
"It isn't just you! this is the attack Mark used to finish off Mariah!"

"...Then...it's over. Tyson's finished...I couldn't do anything to counter this..." Mariah said sadly to the group, who all stared in horror as they could do nothing but watch Dragoon be sent higher, and higher...before it was left to Hover in the air helplessly as Drakefang flew back down to the bey-dish.
Mark Drew his sword again, and like before, held it at his side as he waited for Dragoon to plummet back down to Earth. once it did, Mark Gave an almighty Slash of his sword, and his Beyblade mimicked his movement's and slashed into Dragoon, sending the White Beyblade flying into the air.

"Is that Tyson out of here!? has Mark made it two for two with that move!?" Jazzman shouted, while Tyson stared in Horror as Dragoon went soaring.

'No...no, I can't lose...not like this...no...No!...NO!'
"DRAGOOOOOOOOOOON!" Tyson cried his bit-beast's name in desperation...and the Beyblade reacted to the call. It suddenly stopped mid-air, and it fell, landing back in the stadium...and Mark's eyes were wide in bewilderment.
"Uh! W-what!?"

"He's still in!" Hilary shouted in amazement. The rest of the group were just as shocked as her.

Tyson's eyes were concealed for a moment by the shadow's...before he looked up, renewed vigor in his eyes.
"Sorry Mark...But I'm afraid me and Dragoon aren't finished with you. Not yet." His voice spoke without fear, without hesitation. It was Mark's turn to be at a loss for word's as he stared, mouth slightly open.
"you truly are the most powerful beyblader I've ever come up against...but I'm not intimidated by your power Mark. It excite's me! It pushes me to fight harder, so that maybe one day I can claim power like that and battle you with it!" Tyson pumped the air with his fist as he stared right at Mark, who was recovering from his shock as he shut him mouth and stared back.
"...And I Know Dragoon FEELS THE SAME WAAAAAAAAYYYYYY!" Suddenly Tyson unleashed a Battle Cry as a Mighty Tornado began to form around the bey-stadium. Mark grimaced as he shielded his face from the wind as it whipped itself into something fierce. The Audience were all having to cover their faces as well.

"Whoa! I thought Tyson was finished but he's suddenly come alive from out of nowhere!"
"Totally Awesome! He and Dragoon aren't going down without a fight! Uh-oh! Here comes his Tornado Attack!"

"REDLINE CYCLONE ATTAAAAACCCKKK!" Tyson punched the air as Dragoon, still cloaked in a wall of wind, suddenly lunged at Drakefang. Mark's eyes widened, and he suddenly crossed his arm's in a Defensive Manner, as if Bracing himself to take the attack head on.

"Is he mad!? He's not moving!" Ray shouted in amazement.
"Mark No! Watch out!" Mariah shouted loudly, but too late. The Cyclone Crashed into Drakefang and Mark, and a Large Dust cloud covered the bey-stadium from the aftermath of Tyson's Onslaught.

Tyson watched on as the Dust cloud began to settle. As it did, Mark came into view...and he didn't have a scratch on him. He had tucked his head in as he took the attack, and he raised it once the dust scattered to glare at Tyson...but Tyson wasn't going to give him a moment's respite. "Go Dragoon!" Dragoon charged, and while he was deflected away, the Aura-covered Drakefang was wobbling slightly as well. Mark was flustered by Tyson's renewed Vigor. He clearly hadn't expected the battle to go this long, and he was trying to regain his composure.
"Keep on him Tyson!" Kai had spoken up as he stood up from his seat, much to the surprise of everyone else, both Tyson and Mark looking up at him as well.
"K-Kai!?"
"No beyblader is without weakness, not even one as powerful as him! Keep Attacking, and I'm sure you'll find one!" Kai shouted, while he then thought to himself:
'Even if Tyson doesn't have the power beat Mark now, we need to know everything we can about him and his 'Drakefang' bit-beast...and this strong connection that they share. Tyson has to take the fight to Mark.'

Tyson re-focused on Mark, who did the same to Tyson.
'Kai's absolutely right! This guy may be powerful, but he's not invincible! I just gotta try and find out what his weakness is...but I don't know how much more of this Dragoon can take...' Still, the time for caution was long gone, so Tyson threw it to the wind with Reckless Abandon.
"Attack Dragoon! Don't Relent!" Tyson shouted, as once again, Dragoon charged. It continued to merely deflect off of Drakefang as if it was barely scratching it's armour, however, Mark was too deep in thought to strike back.
'This is unbelievable. He's sorely outmatched in every area...and yet he just won't give it up...That's some serious determination...the heart...of a true champion...' Suddenly, Mark smiled and nodded his head, as if he'd just come to an understanding.

"Tyson...I get it now..." He spoke slowly as he closed his eyes, crossing his arm's again. Tyson blinked, confused by his opponent's words.
"H-huh? get what?"
"I understand just why you've won this championship 3-times on the bounce...you have a true Grit and determination only present in a champion...I was perplexed as to why, as overwhelmingly outclassed you currently are, you continue to fight on...But I understand now. a True champion does not surrender, no matter how Dire the situation may be...Heh...you truly do have the heart of a champion Tyson..." But suddenly, Mark's eyes opened, his smile vanished and his Dragon-like eye's narrowed.
"But I'm afraid that WON'T be enough today! It's time I Finish you off once and for all! DRAKEFANG! END THIS NOW!" Mark shouted loudly, and Drakefang began to glow even brighter than before, while the Aura surrounding Mark also began to intensify.

"Look's like Mark's had enough of Tyson's Brave fightback, and is preparing to go in for the kill! Does Tyson have anything left to respond!?" Jazzman shouted out to the crowd, who were all on the edge's of their seats as this battle neared it's Mighty conclusion.
"Wow...Mark really does mean business now..." Mariah said softly as he watched the Aura around both blader and Beyblade intensify.
"Yeah. He actually gave off a fairly scary vibe there...But I can tell he's still in control. It's still his game to lose at this point." Lee responded, and Ray nodded in agreement.
"...But Tyson's not done yet either. Don't write him out until Dragoon's down for the count." He reminded his friends.

"Okay Dragoon, It's all or nothing now! Let's give it one more Push! REDLINE CYCLONE!" Tyson once again whipped up a ferocious storm, which tailed off of Dragoon as it charged toward's the center of the bey-stadium.
"Let's go Drakefang! RATHIAN TEMPEST!" Mark shouted, revealing the name of his signature attack as well. Drakefang suddenly charged toward's Tyson, Cloaked in a tremendous-looking Green Energy, Electiricty seeming to crackle around it. The two beyblade's met in the center of the Dish...and it was clear that Dragoon just couldn't deal with the Beast-Fused power it was up against as it slowly began to get pushed back.

"Hang in there...I believe in you Dragoon!...Don't-"
Suddenly, a Bright Blue Aura began forming around Tyson...an energy that looked similar to the green one surrounding Mark.
"...Give-"
Mark noticed this, and his eye's widened, amazed by what he was witnessing.
'No way. It can't be!...Is he...Is he really doing it!?' He thought to himself, staring at Tyson in Amazement as the Blue energy continued to build and build.
"...Uuuuuuup!….Argh!" However, just when it looked like Tyson may have found the answer's he needed...He fell to a knee, the Blue energy around him dissipating into nothingness. He just didn't have the strength to keep going at this pace.
"No! Tyson!" Hilary shouted, fearing the worst as Tyson was struggling.
"Not good! He and Dragoon are Spent!" Max shouted, wishing there was something he could do to help.

Back on the ground, Mark sighed, a tad disappointed, but he understood why Tyson hadn't quite managed it.
"Unlucky Tyson...you were close. You almost figured it out...But I'm afraid I'm not just gonna wait here all day! Finish it Drakefang!" And that's exactly what Drakefang did. Dragoon's Tornado faded away as it too reflected the exhausted nature of it's Master, and Drakefang's 'Rathian Tempest' Attack sent the White Beyblade soaring, as it crashed to a dignified defeat at the feet of his master.

"Uhh...Ahh! STADIUM OUT! in perhap's the biggest upset of the tournament so far, Tyson has been defeated! You're winner, and moving on to the Semi-finals, Your BBA European Champion, Mark!"
The crowd, who had previously been rather cold to Mark, suddenly roared in delight at the match they had been treated to. Mark smiled as he heard his name shouted across the stands. The Green Aura around him vanished, and his eye's returned to normal, as Drakefang flew into his waiting hand.

"That...was the absolute best match I've ever seen." Ray said, smiling down at both his friend Tyson and his newest challenger Mark.
"Agreed...Tyson has nothing to be ashamed about. Considering the power gap between them, he really did well to fight back as hard as he did!" Kenny said, feeling disappointed, and yet...not disappointed. It felt weird to him, but he believed it was because, deep down, he knew Tyson couldn't do any better than he had done.
"I thought for sure Tyson was doomed when he used the same attack that took Mariah out...but I guess that's our Tyson for ya. he's too stubborn to go down that easily." Max said, still as cheerful as ever.
Mariah meanwhile smiled as She watched Mark walk over to Tyson. Tyson looked up at Mark as he stood over him...and Mark smiled, offering his hand down to Tyson, who took it. Mark helped his opponent back to his feet, and shook his hand.
"You really surprised me Tyson...I will be 100% honest now: I hadn't really thought much of you before today. I always felt like you weren't really a deserving champion...but I'm glad to say that after today, all those doubt's are gone. You truly are amazing...and if you keep pushing, you'll master the Beast-Fusion technique sooner rather than later...you almost had it there man." Mark said, speaking from the heart to Tyson, who, while seeming disappointed at losing, was still was able to smile.
"Thanks Mark, and that's big of you to be honest about it. Not many people would be like that...I'm glad I was able to show you how I really Tick...and as soon as I master the Beast-Fusion, I'm totally coming back for a re-match! Battling you was awesome!" Tyson said, suddenly regaining his confident, Spirited attitude. Mark laughed, and nodded his head.
"I'm up for that anytime your ready Tyson! I can't wait!" now not satisfied with just shaking hand's, they fist-bumped each other, confident, but happy grin's on their faces.

"Well, I'm glad that there's no bad feeling's between them...I guess Tyson's attitude has rubbed off on you a little...just like mine did a bit..." Mariah said as she watched Tyson and Mark's exchange, though she was talking more to herself than to the others.
"So Kenny, did you get more Data on Drakefang and the Beast-Fusion trick?" Hilary asked the Chief, who nodded.
"I've got that whole Battle recorded, and thank's to Tyson's valiant Effort, we got a lot of data on Drakefang and Mark's style's...It won't be long before we can start attempting to use the Beast-Fusion technique ourselves...but you guys need to focus on getting through your quarter-final matches first!" Kenny reminded them. Max and Kai nodded, but Ray stood up, glancing across the Arena. Miguel was sitting in the stands opposite, and he was looking at Ray as well, their eye's meeting.
"...I definitely can't overlook Miguel...but, If I do beat him, I'll be going up against Mark next...so we need to figure it out as quickly as possible Chief." Ray said, glancing at Kenny, who nodded his head.
"Don't you worry Ray! Officer Kenny is on the job! I assure you we'll crack this case together! You just wait and see!" He said, grinning at Ray, who grinned back, before he glanced back to Miguel.

'...But first...I have a score to Settle with you...Miguel.'

Holy mackerel...I did not expect this chapter to end up so long, but I had a plan in my head and no matter what I was sticking with it. I certainly hope you enjoyed this epic confrontation. It's actually probably my favourite chapter so far XD

still, I might need to recharge a bit after this, but still, be ready for the next chapter - Settling the Score: Ray vs. Miguel