Sailor Takao R Chapter 29 Icy Escapes
The sound of keys clicking on a keyboard had filled the air followed by a frustrated growled. Manabu had narrowed her gaze onto the screen before her as she continued to ignored the whining done by her dear friends. Then there was one particular loud whined followed by some clapping which disrupted her thoughts.
"Arg! I don't know how you keep doing it!" Maxine whined out loud. Tala chuckled nervously. "I mean, I read through the beginner guide to chess and everything."
"Its because he has focus." Manabu commented as she continued on with her analyze. Tala perked up with interested. "But you are only beginner Maxine, and I am sure Mr. Valkov would like someone more challenging right?" Smiled the brunette. Tala nervously rubbed the back of his head.
"Heh… It's fine really!" Tala nervously chuckled as he could sense where Manabu was going with her words. "Its only a small game I picked up while in Europe." He confess. Hikaru perked up as he looked up at the paler red head. "It seems the guys have a bit of a competition between themselves with a game of chess!" Manabu perked up.
"Really? You played against Master Jurgens?" Wondered Manabu. Tala nodded.
"Yeah… it seem that was only way to communicated with them on friendly terms." Tala grinned nervously.
"I wanna match!" Manabu began setting up the pieces while Tala nervously tried to decline. "No! If someone who was taught by Master Jurgens, then I want a match too!" Tala let out a heavy sigh, but he soon capture by the strategic of chess. He found himself getting lost in the movement of the pieces before realizing he had won the game.
"Check- Uhh?" he was about to declared his win without remorse. Then when he looked up, he began wonder if it was the right choice. Manabu was glaring at the board before shifting over to look at him. He flinched in fear wondering what she was going to do.
She wasn't petty enough to eliminate his tutoring students? Was she?!
Tala gulped nervously as Manabu continued to growl at him. Then out of the blue, Hikaru "accidentally" kicked over the board.
"Eh!?"
"Hikaru!" Both exclaim. Hikaru shifted his gaze between the two while Makoto looked bored.
"How can anyone find this game exciting?" Wondered the girl. The two adults flinched while Maxine giggled. Mikaru was reading a book in her lap, but kept asking what few words meant.
"Uh well…"
"Chess is a game what helps shape the mind while allowing their cognitive process to makes precise and calm decisions." Manabu informed. Makoto perked up with interested.
"It helps shapes the mind?" Tala nodded his head.
"Yes. But not only that, it also helps keeps the mind sharp too!" Hikaru happily went over and sat in Tala's lap. Makoto looked nervous as she stared at the pale red head. " I am surprise someone like you Manabu has time to learn the game of chess." Smiled the red head. Manabu took a moment to allow the commitment to sink in. "Not only are you great student, but I am surprise you can keep up with your grades-"
"Stop it!" Manabu spoke up. Maxine and Hikaru both looked up in surprise. "You are doing the exact same thing as I am." Tala was surprised by Manabu's tone. "So your compliments are are insulting to not only to my intelligences, but to everyone else who came before me." She stated with a growl while Tala looked confused.
"Uh… I am sorry, I didn't realize it, but who did you mean-"
"The knights!" She snapped. Tala's gaze had widen. "Those men were able to achieve great marks while doing nightly raids. And how dare you forget even yourself!" She sneered without even realizing it. Then she blinked in surprise when she felt someone touching her. Looking down at her hand, she noticed it was Tala. The young man was caress her hand.
"No Miss Saien…. You need to relax." His tone was calm and it held authority. "And what you are doing is amazing." His piercing blue eyes caused her too shiver as she gulp nervously. "Not everyone can do what you can do. You are a very remarkable woman." He stated. Manabu felt herself flush as she looked away from the red head.
"Oh Mr. Valkov….Tala…" She murmured his name under her breath. She looked up at him, he wore pleasant smile that set her heart a flutter.
"Wow Tala!" Maxine suddenly appeared at the redhead's side. "Do you know how to charm the ladies." She chuckled. "Should Catherine be worried? Or do you think I am amazing too?" The blond tried fishing. Manabu drop her gaze as she suddenly felt flustered.
"Of course!" He gave the young blonde his full attention. "Your smile brings everyone joy. Because it allows them to feel calm even when they are facing dangerous." Maxine's cheeks turn pink at the commented. Makoto continued to narrowed her gaze onto the red head as Mikaru came over and asked the man to read her a story. The twins sat comfortable on his legs as he began reading them a book.
~W~
Ozuma narrowed his gaze onto old city of Tokyo. He was annoyed that his stupid priestess had went got herself capture. "How dare you betray me Mariah!" Came a low growl. Now he can longer feel her presents. He soon brought up files that Salima had collected on the metal dragon. He found her true identify within the files, and her place of residents.
"Dear Miss Kinomiya… it seems you have some business holding occurring within the city." A strange building had appeared on the screen.
"Uh Master Ozuma?" Came a hesitant voice. Ozuma tilted his head. "Miss Mariam has wish to inform ye that she proceeding with the genetic upgrades ye requested for Agent Drigger." Ozuma nodded his head.
"Good… Tell me Dunga…" The young man perked up. "What do you think happens to traitors when they leave the our precious clan?" Dunga's gaze widen.
"Mariah left?" Ozuma nodded as a video clip of Mariah preforming human religious event. Dunga stared wide eye at he continued to watch the clip.
"Now, she is nothing but an ordinary human." Dunga flinched in realization as he noticed how happy she looked in her new rituals. "What do you know of this building?" On the screen was a picture of a rook.
"It's a chess piece sir. Used in a strategist broad game, Aye heard his Prince often like playing the game." Ozuma narrowed his gaze.
"I see… And did you know this place is now a crystal point?" Dunga's eyes widen in surprise. "I need someone to corrupted it! Do you understand? Dunga?" The young man gulp nervously before nodding his head. "Good… Go make sure of it!" Dunga bow as he took his leave. Ozuma narrowed his gaze.
"Your royal highness…" The place had soon faded back to an image of Catherine. "I will make sure that you won't live long enough to see that future." Ozuma narrowed his gaze as a time crystal crack within his grasp.
Dunga let out a nervous sigh. "Mariah… She is a normal human being…" Dunga frown his brows together in wonder. He looked down at his hand.
"Oi!" The huge blond flinch as he looked up to see his younger cousin marching over towards him. "What did the boss want?" Joseph took the files from his hands while Mariam was busying watching computer screen. She was so focus on her work. "Another crystal point to corrupt?" Joseph looked up at the blond. "Doesn't he realize how busy we are!" Came a sneer.
"It's fine." Dunga shifted his gaze back towards his younger cousin. He had fail to notice that Mariam had turn to look at him. "Aye will take care of it. Yous guys keep working on Sal." Joseph chuckled.
"Feh! Wouldn't dream of ever quit." Joseph smiled brightly to himself. "She is our top priority right now." Joseph shifted his gaze back to the healing pod. He was able to change up the mechanics opponents of it for Mariam to use for surgery needed. "This machine is my pride and joy now!" He grinned as he tapped the side of the huge hulking metal pod.
"Dunga!" The blond flinch as he straighten his form. Mariam came strolling over. His gaze widen at her appearances. She had dark circles on bottom of her lids. "So, is it true on what happen to Mariah?" Dunga was hesitated before nodding his head.
"Yeah… she's gone." Mariam looked annoyed before shifting her gaze towards the pod.
"Sis?" Joseph shifted his gaze towards her.
"We must continued on with our project Joseph! Can you check the accelerator please? I think there might be a malfunction." Joseph nodded as he went back to station. He quickly began to type in computer codes.
"Dunga…" The blond shifted his gaze back to Mariam. "You be careful out there. Okay?" The blond nodded as he took his leave. Mariam let out a heavy sigh before strolling back to her station.
"You know… If you wanted privacy, you could have asked instead telling me there was a malfunction." Joseph commented. Mariam flinched in surprise as she looked towards her brother.
"But there is a malfunction." She stated. Joseph narrowed his gaze.
"Feh… you don't even realize it do you." Mariam narrowed her gaze onto her brother.
"Whatever thought is going through you head! Get rid of it!" She growled. "We need to focus!" She looked back at the pod. Salima was floating around in healing liquid. "Master Ozuma hates traitors even more than the white goddess…" Joseph flinched in surprise before shifting his gaze back to his screen. Mariam tighten her hold onto her clip board.
Please before careful Dunga.
~W~
Catherine stood outside the funeral hall where a lot of her grandfather's friends and gather as the ceremony took place. She held her phone to her ear. Mariah was in the mist of it with another priest helping her with the ritual.
"Yeah… This is gonna take a lot longer than except." Catherine let out a heavy sigh.
"Ah! I see… so there won't be anything alone time I take it." Came the voice over the phone line. Catherine let out a soft chuckle at the idea.
Tala was standing outside of his apartment as Maxine was busy teaching the children a new game while Manabu seem to be busy making snacks for everyone. He held his cellphone to his ear.
"Well… I am glad I can be of some help then." He tried to grin, but he felt terrible he couldn't be at Catherine's side. Knowing she was going thorough something horrible.
"You are Yuri…." Her tone was soft, but was always seem wobbly whenever they talked. "Keeping an eye on those children-uh!" There was a sharp gasp on the line. Tala's eyes widen in surprise. She was crying! And he couldn't do anything about it.
"Kitten?" There was a choke sob followed by a whimper.
"Yuri…" came a soft pant. "Please take good care of them." Then call ended. Tala stared at his phone in surprise. It there a consisted beeping that filled his mind.
"Hey!" Tala flinched in surprise as Manabu had suddenly appeared at his side.
"Oh hi there!" He chuckled nervously. "How much of that did you hear?" He wondered.
"Just an enough to know that we have keep the children entertain a bit longer." Manabu stated. Tala turn pink as he shifted his gaze away from the young woman. "You miss her?" She wondered. Tala perked up.
"No…" Manabu let out exasperated sigh.
"You miss being at her side when you know she is hurting?" Manabu tried rephrase her words. Tala perked up before realizing what Manabu was getting at.
"Sorry if I am not being a great host!" He tried to apologizes.
"It's no worries." Manabu replied. She leaned the railing as the wind blew a gentle breeze. "It's what makes you human." Tala perked up in surprise.
"Wha… Human?" Tala got flusters at the commented. Manabu couldn't help but giggle at his fluster face.
"Awe… you are adorable your highness." Manabu commented. Tala's gaze had widen in surprise at the commented. Why were people calling him his highness. He wasn't princely looking. "It's not your looks that has change, but a feeling-"
"Ahh! Something is burning!" Came a scream. Manabu's gaze widen as she quickly darted back into the apartment.
"Shit! Maxine! How come you weren't watching the food!" Tala watched the two girls as they started to argue amongst themselves. Tala couldn't help but laugh at the two. Both them flush at the sound of laughter. Then they went on to apologize to him.
"Its no worries, besides, I have a better idea on how to spend the afternoon." Maxine quickly took take of the burn pot.
"A field trip?" Wondered Hikaru. Tala looked down at the young man as he nodded his head.
"Yes, and if you behaviour yourselves, then maybe some ice cream?" The kids eyes light up as they all jump for joy. They all quickly gather their things we're ready to go.
"Geeze he really spoils those kids." Manabu commented while Maxine tilted her head to the side.
"I guess…" She added. Manabu turn her gaze towards the blonde.
"You disagree?"
"Well… I don't know, he seems almost like a father to them." She decided to voice her opinion. "This isn't his first time taking care of them and I know he disciplined them when they don't behaviour correctly in his views." Manabu perked up. Maxine turn pink. "I often ask him for help whenever I'm stuck baby-sitting them because I usually have my brother along, and they can be handful at times." Manabu nodded.
"Girls? Are you ready?" The two flinched in surprise. "Come on, don't you want ice cream?" He tease them both. Both flush in colour as they shifted their gaze away shyly.
Mikaru and Hikaru stared in awe at the building before them. Makoto's eyes widen in realize as they came into view.
"Oh wow!" Maxine marble at the beauty of it. "Now why does it look so familiar?" She wondered out loud. Manabu giggled quietly next to her.
"Oh yay!" Mikaru leap up for joy. The trio of adults looked down at the twins. "Daddy would always bring us to the chess tower!" Excitement was evident in the girl's voice. "isn't that right Hikaru!" The young boy nodded.
"{Yeah! Its where he taught us how to play chess!}" The twins stare in awe at the beauty of the building. Makoto shifted her gaze nervously at the adults then back at the twins.
"Oh yeah?" The twins gasp in surprise as Tala was suddenly behind them. "He did also tell you that there are tournaments held here?" The twins both exchange looks.
"What really?" Mikaru looked surprise.
"Tournaments?" Hikaru looked confused.
"Oh! Is that why you brought us here?" Wondered Manabu. "So you can compete?" She wondered. Tala chuckled nervously.
"You're a shoe in to win for sure!" Maxine gush.
"Oh please" Tala turn pink at the compliment. "I am just someone who enjoys playing for company, not for outcomes."
"No?" Came a deep voice. "Then competing in a tournament where ye have no intentions of winning is clearly a waste of ye's time." The group turn to face a rather sharply dress blond man. His accent was similar to someone's else. "And competitions are meant to be won."
"Arg! And who are you?" Maxine bit back. The blond smiled at the group.
"Just someone who likes winning." Tala frown his brows in concern.
"It shouldn't matter if you lose, as long as you try your best!" Manabu tried to reason.
"With that attitude, ye will never achievement the goal you're truly after." His accent seem to become more refine the more he talked. He stalk towards the tower and stop right beside the red head. "Because no matter what, is there always a prize to be won." Tala's gaze widen as the man continued on his path.
"Hey you jerk!" Maxine began to whine.
"Who the hell was he?" Wondered Manabu. Tala watched the man disappeared inside the tower as he ponder on his words.
Tala decided to sign up for the tournament as he wonder about what the blond has said. "Oh if it isn't Mr. Valkov!" Tala perked up as he heard his earth name being called for. "I see you decided to join in my little tournament." Tala recognize the man from school. He turn and bow in respect to the older man.
"I did sir, but I also brought few friend to explode the building." Tala grin. In the background, Mikaru and Makoto were playing a game of tag with Maxine, while Manabu was trying to pull Hikaru off one of the statues. Tala's grin began to crack as he turn to glare at the group. The children realize they had soon across a line as they quickly got into line. "Kids!" They quickly came over and bow towards the old man. Hikaru continued to stare up at the man.
"What is it young man?" Wondered the older gentleman. Hikaru's eyes widen in surprise.
"{Our daddy told us many great things about you!}" Hikaru exploded out. The old man chuckled as he recognize the language the boy was speaking.
"{Oh? Pray tell, who is your daddy?}" Hikaru's eyes went even wider in awe. The old man chuckled.
"Sir, you speak French too?" The old man nodded.
"I do, why don't we take the children to the play area." The group nodded. Mikaru was in awe at the place and kept commenting on shiny everything was. Makoto quickly went attacking the huge chess pieces as Hikaru was playing with computer with Manabu. Tala let out a heavy sigh which caused the old man to chuckle.
"I am terrible sorry sir."
"It's no worries Mr. Valkov. This is why I built such a place, that even parents can bring their children to enjoy as well." Makoto had started a chess game with Mikaru while Maxine ref. "Come, let's have an our game." Tala shifted his gaze back to the group and back to the old man. "Don't worry, they will be fine!" Smiled the old man. Tala nodded as he quickly followed him to another room. It was just the right next to the play room.
"It seems you adjusted well in your new surrounds Mr. Valkov." The old man commented. Tala shifted his gaze towards the man but smiling softly.
"Yes sir… and its all thanks to one woman." Tala smiled at the thought of Catherine.
"Miss Kinomiya?" Tala perked up in surprise. "I see, she gotten another admire." Tala's eyes widen in surprise.
"Uh sir!" Tala shifted his gaze nervously while the old man chuckled as he continue to play pieces.
"Mr. Valkov… If you wish to attract the attention of Miss Kinomiya, I highly advise more aggressive approach?" Tala perked up.
"Sir?"
"Miss Kinomiya isn't the type of woman who will wait around." Tala drop his gaze back to the board. "Especially with the kind of suitors she has chasing after her." Tala's eyes widen at the comment. He turn pink as he realize Catherine and her knights were famous even in Japan. "Though it does make one wonder."
"Sir?"
"If she is truly interested in any of them." The old man narrowed his gaze onto Tala. The red head began to fidget under the gaze. Even under the critical eye, Tala had seen his chance and place his piece.
"Uh… check mate sir?" The old man gasp in surprise. "I know it may seem like I am not actively pursuing her…." Tala took a moment to think over his words while the old man lean closer. "But… She isn't a prize to be won. She is strong and intelligent being, who can make up her mind. And I like to think I am in the game as the others." Tala declared. The old man chuckled.
"That's a good sport." Tala noticed something darting from he corner of his eye.
"Uh… I know this place isn't open yet, but is there any other employees inside?" Tala wondered.
"No, if you wish to tour the place, but I highly advise you keep the children at the play centre." Smiled the man.
"Of course, if you don't mind telling my friends?" The old man nodded.
~W~
Dunga was able to find the centre of the building. He purse his lips and blew an gentle breeze. He chuckled to himself contained the area.
"This place will be corrupted in no time."
"Stop that!" Came a growl. The blonde turn towards the source. He was surprise to see the pale red head.
"Ah… its the non competitor…" he commented. "Look here mate, Aye highly advise ye should leave if ye know what's good for yous." Tala narrowed his gaze as his hand clenched around his locket. "Aye some real competition." He stated. "Not some weakling!" Tala's eyes widen as he was suddenly hit by a gust of wind. He was thrown back and hit the door. Dunga burst out into a barking laugh. Tala groan as he crawled forward.
"I am not weak!" He growled. Dunga arch a brow in question.
"Oh yeah? Prove it! Ha!" Tala was suddenly force back onto his feet with intense pressure. His body slowly skidded across the floor until it slammed up against the wall. He grunt in pain as he took out the locket.
"How come you're not working!" Dunga narrowed his gaze onto the red head.
"Whoa dude? Have ye lost yur mind?" The pressure disappearing causing red head to crumble onto the floor. "Man.. ye really are no competition." Tala narrowed his gaze into a glare.
"NO! I won't be seen a someone who is weak!" He yelled out. Dunga narrowed his gaze as a bright light had consume the red head.
"What is going on!" Once the light had died down, standing before him was who he thought was the King. "It' can't be…" His gaze had widen at the figure before him. "Your highness?" Tala flicked the visor back.
"You know of me?" Tala was truly confused. Dunga's lip had twitch before a smile had grace his feature.
"Heh… The future king of Crystal Tokyo?" Tala's gaze widen in surprise. "Boy, ye'll make a fine present for master Ozuma." Dunga began to collect energy while Tala narrowed his gaze.
"Ice blizzard!" Dunga was in awe as his dark energy spell was soon dispel.
"Well… Now that throws a wrench in me plan." He growled. "But Aye guess its the old fashion way!" Just as the blond was about to attack he quickly dodge a lighting attack. "Oi! No tagging out!" He growled. Tala looked behind him to see Soldier Lighting and Sailor Wind. He was surprise to see the two. "Heh… three against one eh?" Tala narrowed his gaze. "Ye know, Aye am not in the mood for a gang banging today." His body began to vanish before their eyes. "So when ye feeling up to it. Aye be here waiting for a real battle." Tala's gaze had widen as he let out a curse.
"He took off rather quickly." Lighting stated with an air of smugness. Tala narrowed his gaze in annoyances.
"Damn it! I could have taken him! Why did you interfere?" He growl at the two. Lighting and Wind both look surprise as they exchange looks.
"Sorry Man, we were only helping." Lighting looked sheepishly.
"We're sorry soldier Ice, we thought you were in trouble." Sailor Wind had tried help, but Tala only stepped away from the Sailor girl.
"How did you know?" The two exchange looks.
"Uh… Maxine… She called us." Sailor Wind smiled nervously.
"Yeah!" Soldier light tried lie. Both of them were terrible liars. Tala shifted his gaze back to where he seen the dark moon warrior.
"Well… it seems we have another problem." The two perked up. "He knows who I am." Tala's armour soon disappeared. "I am sorry if I am putting the mission at risk." Tala drop his gaze.
"Uh…" The two siblings both exchange looks, not sure on how to proceed with presented issue. "Well…." Lighting nervously scratch his cheek. "If Dunga's objective is this chess tower, then he'll be back for sure." He stated.
"Don't worry about it! We'll figure something out!" Sailor Wind said nonchalant. There comments had made him feel better, but he wonder how the knights would react and the piece of information.
"Thanks guys. Its means a lot to me." Tala shot the two a smile before getting lost in thought. Lighting quickly shot a look towards his sister.
"He's normally like this?" He wondered. Sailor Wind only shrugged her shoulders. She watch as Tala seem to be thinking out loud. She only seen the twins do this type of thing, so see Tala do it made her think odd things.
~W~
Dunga had reappeared outside the tower. His CHS began to organize the information given to him.
"So…" It had facial recognition, which had connect this warrior to the future King. "It's true, this man is gonna be King." Dunga shifted his gaze towards the tower. "But how can a human live for that long. It's just not natural…" Dunga narrowed his gaze.
As long as the white dragon has the silver crystal! The dark crystal will be totally useless!
"Does the silver crystal really have that kind of power?" Dunga began to think. "Then maybe…" He looked down at his body. He had fragments of the dark crystal coursing through his veins which had given him power. A successful experience from one of his distance relatives, which he had fallen in love with. "Mariam…" He clenched his hand into a fist. "Aye can not allow that man to become king." He declared as he remember how hurt and sad Mariam was when her mother had died. He just wanted to the joy to return back to her features. It was the reason why he agreed to the experience. Allow that those scientist stick those weird gems inside of him. Now he always had the haunting feel that he was never alone, and that someone was looking over his shoulder. "Aye am sorry to your majestic, but Aye gonna to need to kill ye." Dunga walked away from the tower.
~W~
Tala had let out a sigh of relief as he turn the door knob to his place. Takao and Ray had taken the kids off his hands. They mention something about their guest or his guest? He wasn't really paying attention. He was still reeling in on what the enemy had said. He was just relief to have some alone time. Maybe now he could get some homework done. He went into his kitchen to get a glass of water. His body felt sore and stiff. Maybe a nice hot shower, might help? Drinking down he glass, he made his way to the bedroom.
!
There…. He felt something odd coming from the room. He narrowed his gaze as his hand hesitant over the knob. With a steady breath, he whip the door open.
"Don't you know how make a woman wait." Tala step back in surprise at the figure on his bed.
"Wha-What are you doing here?" Tala was confused as he enter further into his bedroom. Catherine shot him a look of confusion.
"Isn't it obvious?" Tala only rolled his eyes.
"Not really." He soon took a spot onto the bed which forced her to move over.
"I was worried! Why did you think I sent Takao and Ray?" Tala let out a heavy sigh. He wasn't pay attention because he knew it was Catherine. Because it seem whenever he transform, She would know. "Yuri?"
"Do you love me?" Catherine stared at him in surprise. "I mean do you seriously love me?" Catherine turn pink before shifting her gaze.
"How do you want me to prove it?" Tala let out a growl.
"I don't know!" He slammed his body back onto the bed. Catherine shifted her gaze back at him. He looked annoyed as their gaze had seem to find each other. "Do you love Johnny?"
"Yes…." Tala frown his brows together in annoyances.
"Why?!" Catherine stared at him carefully.
"He makes me feel safe." Tala's gaze had soften. Now he couldn't be upset with her for that.
"And you don't feel safe with me?" He wondered. Catherine let out a heavy sigh.
"Its not the same." She replied. Tala was frustrated.
"You know! All of this chaos could end if you had choose me!" He was going to tell her.
"What are you talking about?"
"Catherine!" He grabbed a hold of her hand. "The enemy let slip a piece of information along with the children as well." Catherine tilted her head curiously.
"What are you talking?"
"I went to chess tower." Catherine's gaze had widen in recognition.
"Oh! You mean the one what Professor Gusto had built recently?" Tala nodded his head. "He always has a soft spot for you." Tala then laid his head down onto Catherine's lap. The young woman was confused, but started running her fingers through his hair. "What is it Yuri? What's gotten you so stressed out?" He let out a heavy sigh.
"Mikaru said her Daddy would take them to the chess tower…" Catherine perked up with interested.
"Really? Huh… That's interesting fact." Catherine thought about it. She knew Johnny didn't like the game at all. He would only play against Robert, and then claim that the man had cheated. He also claim that the Hikaru wasn't his.
"And Hikaru commented on he was surprise to see Professor Gusto alive, since his father always talk about him." Catherine narrowed her gaze onto the red head. "And the enemy had said I was the Future King of Crystal Tokyo." Tala turned around to face Catherine. She had kept her expression stoic. "Catherine… I don't know how it possible, but maybe those kids are really ours?" He dared to suggested. Catherine's eyes widen as her heart was set a flutter. "Kitten?" Catherine quickly hid her face as she turn away from him. "Hey! Why are you getting so shy?"
"Howcouldyousaysuchtings!" She had murmured.
She had promise Johnny to give him only kids, and now here was man whom she loved dearly declaring those twins to their children. It was too much for her.
"Cat?" Tala had wrestle with her until she laid pin beneath him. Her face was flush as her hair soon began to fell free from its buns. Her chest would rise with every breath she took.
If I may advise, a more aggressive approach when courting the young woman….
Professor Gusto's words linger in Tala mind as he stared down at Catherine. He kept her arms pin above her head. He knew she was strong enough to break free, but she seem be playing weak at the moment. Tala began to wonder he if was comfortable with this feeling of control over her.
"Well Yuri?" Tala frown his brows as he ease up on her and release her hands. He couldn't do it. He didn't want that kind of control over her. "Yuri?" She gentle caress his cheek as he leaned into the touch.
He couldn't do it… It held too much baggage for him to actual enjoy it.
"I can't…" he began. "It feels too much like how Voltaire used to control us." Catherine nodded her head as she wrapped her arms around him.
"This is why I want Johnny." Tala's eyes widen. "He gives me satisfaction of being used…." Catherine's cheek turn pink in realization.
"Used?" Tala began to wonder on how that would work.
"Yes… used…" She gentle lace their fingers together. "He has the strength to over power me," she began as she whisper along his ear. "And put me in my place!" She had shoved him down onto the bed. Tala stared wide eye at her as she smiled in glee at him. His legs were still hook around her waist as she tower over him. He gulp nervously as he began to wonder about himself. He was feeling worried, but also very arousal at this new form of play. She lean in close, allowing her breath to tickle his senses. "You know…" Tala quickly covered his mouth as to hide the gasp that threaten to escape. "You look pretty cute laying on the bed like that." She purred into his ear. His eyes widen in surprise as he felt his body react to her. He wanted to… so much, but they needed to talk about it!
"Catherine…" He whined out. She slowly began to pull back, giving him some space. He was beginning to see the appeal of having someone dominate over him. "I love you…" He began. She was able to pull him up into sitting with their legs crossing each other which had caused him to squeak in surprise. Oh yeah… She was definitely strong enough to over power him if push comes to shove. "And I think we need to talk about this sort of implication." He started. Catherine tilted her head to the side in that very cute sort of way.
"Yes…" She sigh happily. "Like how far you want to take it?" Her eyes lit up in joy, which caused him to gulp nervously.
"Uh… Yeah, something like that!" He chuckled nervously.
Then she suddenly withdrew, which made him whine at the loss of contract. God! When did he start whining?
"I am glad to see you are well Yuri." He perked up. Her features were no longer sultry in appeared, but of sorrow. He eyes widen in alarm.
"Kitten?" She stood up.
"Yuri…" She paused as she leaned over on the bed to caress his cheek. "I just wanted to make sure you were fine. I am needed back at the temple." He grasped a hold of her hand.
"But kitten!" She looked at him. Was he going to do it. Was he going to beg her to stay? He drop his gaze as he gentle caress her hand. "You take care of yourself? Okay?" Catherine nodded as she quickly turn away. She left… No… it was like she was fleeting away. What do did he do wrong?
~W~
The very next day was the chess tournament. Tala stood outside the tower staring up at it. He knew something was bothering Catherine, but he wasn't sure what it was. Or what he could do about it.
"Yahoo!" Came a voice. "Oi! Valkov!" Tala perked up as he looked round. His eyes widen in surprise as he spotted the sailor guardians walking towards him. "Hey man! How it going?" Ray grinned. Tala allowed a smile grace his features.
"Hi guys, I didn't realize you were all coming." He stated nervously as he looked towards the children.
"How could we not!" Maxine stated with a joy. Tala looked surprised. "You are our friend!" She wore her brilliant smile.
"Wha…"
"Come on Mr. Valkov, after all we been through? You didn't think we wouldn't want to cheer you on?" Wondered Manabu. Tala gulp nervously as he stared at the group.
"Tala?" Came Takao's soft voice. He looked down at the teen. "You do know, you are our cherish friend right?" That was it! He couldn't take it anymore. He quickly turn his back towards the group.
"Heh… Come on girls! Let's go find some seats, I'm sure the champ here needs a moment!" Ray gentle gesture the girls towards the tower. They were hesitated, but the dark hair teen had insisted.
"Thanks Ray!" Came a wobbly voice. Ray chuckled nervously.
"Yeah… those girls tend to get at you." Ray gentle grasp his shoulder as he quickly wipe away the tears.
"No… you don't realize how much that means to me to hear that." Ray stared at the guy in surprise.
"Awe dude!" Ray's eyes began to get watery. "You can't do this to me!" The two guys quickly turn away from each other.
Upon entering into the chess tower, Tala was quickly guide to a different area of the tower. The area where Dunga was trying too corrupt. He narrowed his gaze as he looked around.
"Uh…. Are you Mr. Valkov?" Came a polite tone. Tala flinch in surprise was he realize it was new competition.
"Uh yes! Sorry!" He quickly took a seat as the board was being set up.
Damn it…. I can't sense the creep.
Tala began to make moves without paying attention.
I wonder what happen to Catherine last night and why she acting so weird?
Tala had ended up winning his first match. He was surprise by it and shook hands with his competitor. "Uh! yeah! Great game!" Tala then moved on to the next opponent.
"So, this is where you guys hiding!" Ray came over to the girls. Takao and Makoto were busy glaring at each other.
"Yeah, come and sit!" Manabu waved him over. The twins were watching the scoring match with such intense, it made the dark hair teen wonder about their parents. He would never consider chess to be interesting thing to watch. It wasn't his forte.
"Wow! What's up with them?" Manabu looked at the twins.
"Oh, it seems one of their uncles is a big chess player along their father." Ray nodded his head.
The score board has a picture of Tala's head, which kept eating up the competition. Takao stare in awe.
"Oh wow! I can't believe how well he is playing!" She chirp happily. Manabu narrow her gaze.
"I think he might be at professional level." Manabu commented. Ray narrowed his gaze as he looked as he stared at the girls.
"Huh? Really?"
"Yay Tala! If you can't do! Then no one can!" Maxine began cheering which made Ray drop his head in disbelief.
"Max!" Manabu quickly wipe the fans away. "You're embarrassing-" Takao was on chair cheering as well. "Never mind.."
"You guys!"
"Uh, excuse me!" The teens flinched as they noticed an older man calling for them.
"Oh! We're sorry. We were too loud, weren't we?" Ray began to bow for apology.
"No, it's not about that." The old man gave them a gentle smile. "I take your Mr. Valkov's friends right?" The group exchange looks before cheering yes. "I see, it's so nice to see that he has finally made some friends! I was getting worried about the boy." He stated.
"Oh… you know Mr. Valkov?" Manabu flinched in realization.
"OH! Professor Gusto! My apologizes for nor recognizing you!" Ray stared at Manabu in surprise.
"What?"
"Bow your head!" Mananu growled under her breath. "It's the head of the translation department!" The group flinched and did as they were told.
"Ho, ho, ho! It's no worries Miss Saien, Only the exchange students know of me!" Smiled the old man. "Though I must say, I am surprise not see Miss Starlight not around." The group all chuckled nervously.
"Uh… By the way, do you think Tala would win?' She tried to change the topic. Professor Gusto shifted his gaze back to the board.
"Oh yes! He's an excellent player, but it seems he might have some competition. See." On the board there was young man with blond hair who appeared to be taking out the competition as quickly as Tala was. "I'll tell ya! Valkov is something, once he puts his mind to it." Smiled Gusto. The group nodded as they stared in awe at the board. "By the way, hasn't any of you seen Miss Starlight?" The group all exchange looks. Takao chuckled nervously.
"I'm sure she's little tied up with something at the moment." The professor nodded. Ray decided to give the man some information.
Tala's block got bigger as each competitor he finish off as was the blond, until there was only two of them left. Ray narrowed his gaze before he nudge Manabu.
"Hey… Keep an eye on the little ones for me please?" Manabu nodded as she watch Ray leave. The rest of the girls were confused. "Please let me be wrong." Ray took out his phone and made a call. "Oh Hey… I think something is about to go down… Ya! Do you mind sending Catherine?" Ray waited for a moment. "Wait what? But he came here alone… That doesn't make sense. Okay Thanks bye." Ray went to the bathroom.
~W~
"Well, well… If it isn't King himself." Spoke the blond. Tala narrowed his gaze onto his opponent. "Came to finally meet your end?" Came a chuckle.
"Why are you doing this? Why reveal yourself in such a public way?" Tala wondered.
"Oh… it won't be public for long, your highness." Tala's gaze widen as he took a step back. "Now lets play with these pieces." Tala's gaze widen in awe at the crystallize chess pieces that were drop before him.
"What is the world?" He had kneeled down a pick one up. He held one of the opaline ones within his grasp. He couldn't sense anything, but knew not to trust this man. "Fine, let's play!"
"I am glad you agree your highness."
Tala knew the title was more of a mockery than any real respect. He couldn't understand what was going through this man's head. He narrowed his gaze onto the board. He curse under his breath.
"What's wrong? Too distracted?" Came a odd taunt.
"No…" Tala frown his brows together. "Not one bit." Then when it looked like Dunga has the upper hand. Tala seen his movement. He quickly took out the bishop that was hanging around his Queen, before forcing her to attack his opponents King. Tala was surprise on quickly the man was willing to give up his Queen, which he himself did everything to make sure it was the last piece being moved. "Check."
Dunga narrowed his gaze into a glare. Tala's gaze widen. He was suddenly over whelm by the darkness that seem to radiate from the man. Then sound of something cracking caught his attention.
The cameras?!
The only piece of the outside world was now gone. The cameras and the computers were crack or toast.
"Ye see, your highness." The casual clothing soon dissolve and his odd space suit had appear along with his fancy piece of eye wear. "This little piece of technology allows me to override any sort of transmitting frequency with 100 metres radius, so you're fresh out of luck for help." He grinned. Tala narrowed his gaze.
What am I going to do? Its still rather warm in here to use any of my powers.
"So… if you may, let's play another round shall we?" Tala shifted his gaze towards the blond.
"And if I refuse?" Dunga's grin seem to stretch even wider across his face.
"If ye refuse." His eyes seem to glow before figure had appeared before him. It was Catherine, seem appeared to be out cold. His gaze widen. "Then this little kitten is going to find out whole new meaning of the word pain." He chuckled darkly.
"No! Don't you dare!" He shouted, which had caused Dunga to bust out laughing.
"You're too good to your Queen you're highness." Tala's eyes widen at the term, but quickly cooled his features. "A piece of ass like that is one in millions." Dunga pulled Catherine up by her long hair. "She hasn't even master the art of barriers yet." He burst out laughing before he grabbed a hold of breast and licked the side of her face. "Tasty for a kitten." He purred. Tala began to tremble as he glare at the man before him.
"I said to leave her alone!" Dunga's eyes widen brief as the air in the surround area began to cool down. He continued to chuckle. He noticed the door was frozen over.
"Nah… I think i'lll keep her right here." He took a seat and place Catherine on his lap. "Well your highness?" Tala looked over at the chair. He narrowed his gaze.
"Come on, don't you want to protect you dear Queen?" Tala grit his teeth. He took a deep breath before taking a seat. "Good boy." Tala quickly cool and controlled his features. He couldn't allow his enemy know his emotions.
"Let's play."
A new chess game was quickly set up. "Oh! Before I forget! I every move you make! I to play with this tasty little treat." Tala's gaze widen.
"Wha-" He slide his hand under neath her shirt.
"Hmm… nice a warm." Tala swallowed the lump as he focus on the game before him. Dunga was true to his word, for every advancing move he had made. Dunga started to feel up Catherine in front of him. When her bra came free, Tala began to loose advancement on the board. "Awe, don't tell me you're giving up?" Came the taunt. "She is so much fun to play with!" Tala hands were balled in fist at his sides. Dunga held Catherine close to his body as she had lost her top due to one of Tala's movement. Her stomach was expose along with grey scale skin. It seem one injury wasn't heal properly. Tala's gaze kept looking at it, but he was wondering why she wasn't waking up.
"You know… if you won, I guess it wouldn't be such bad thing?" Dunga had grabbed a handful of her breast as he rolled his hips up. Dunga pause for a moment as he felt a twitch. He narrowed his gaze onto he woman before him. The drug he got from Joseph was supposed to keep woman out for at least 24 hours. She wasn't easy opponent to take out, he was really hoping this plan would work out in his favour.
"Sire?" Tala's hand twitch as he return his gaze back towards the board. He had to win this fight, but at what cost? He moved a piece, which Dunga had counter. The man was dry humping his girlfriend. He still a bishop and the Queen still. Could he sacrifice his Queen? Even for the greater good? Dunga narrowed his gaze towards the door. It seem they had company, but with the door frozen over. Dunga wondered how much longer it would last. "Come on! Make a move!" He shout. He had stood up, pushing the woman forward. He quickly pulled onto her hair. There was a groan that arise from her lips. Dunga began to curse his luck.
"What is this?" Came a new voice. Tala's gaze had widen as another man had appeared. This one much shorter than Dunga. "Are you actually winning, dear cousin?" The man kept his gaze on Tala. Dunga chuckled.
"Yeah! Aye can come up with a plan!" He nearly spatted at the man.
"And you actual caught the metal dragon?" Dunga's eyes widen in glee as he looked down at the female within his arms. "I do say, that is rather impressive." Tala couldn't control himself anymore.
"Yes well, this little icy kitten was a piece of cake!" Came a quiet purr. Tala's gaze widen before they narrowed into a sharp glare. That was it!
"Stop touching her!" He shouted. The two flinched in surprise as the area began to freeze over.
"Yu-Yuri?" Came a groan. Dunga flinch in worry as he looked towards the woman within his grasp.
"No one!" Tala slammed his fist onto the table. "And I mean no one is allowed to touch her!" He suddenly transform before the two of them just as the door was broken open.
"Soldier Ice!" Came a gasp. Dunga and the shorter male narrowed their gaze onto the group.
"Damn it Dunga! It's just like you to wait!" Dunga turn towards the shorter male.
"Wait! Joseph!" Dunga dropped Catherine as he went to his cousin.
"No wait! I won't allow myself to be associated with a failure like you!" And just like that, his cousin was gone.
Catherine groan as she laid on the floor. "Kitten!" Soldier Ice had suddenly appeared at her side. The young woman gave him a sleep daze.
"Oh Yuri…" He wrapped his arms around her.
"Damn it! Why do you have to go ruin everything!" Dunga growled. "Well! Then I won't go without a fight!" Just before he could let out an attack. Unicolyon and Salamlyon had appeared at either side of him. He flinched in annoyances before surrendering.
"Wait!" The knights paused. "Sailor Wind?" The young teen perked up as she came over. "Can you take away his powers with your healing magic?" Wondered Soldier Ice. The young girl tilted her head to the side.
"I don't know…. Should I try?" The knights turn their attention towards Dunga who glare at them both.
"Go a head! See if care! I am sure I'll be dusted!" Sailor Wind suddenly looked hesitated.
"{Oliver?}"
"{Sailor Wind, I am sure he'll be fine!}" smiled the pink knight. Sailor Wind nodded before she preformed her healing activation. A bright light had consume the area, and Dunga suddenly felt lighter than before. He fell to the floor trembling in awe.
"He's still here!" Soldier Ice turn his attention to Catherine who was wake at the moment. She stared blankly up at him before shifting her gaze towards the blond.
~W~
Outside the chess tower, Tala had given Catherine his sweater to cover her body, which she was thankful for.
"Hey…" She perked up.
"Yeah?" He took a fews steps towards her and grasp a hold of her face. He kissed her deeply than he has ever before. When they broke apart, she let out a soft whine as she clung onto his shirt. "Yuri." She had tighten her hold onto his shirt. He leaned forward and nuzzled her forehead.
"I am sorry, I couldn't protect you." He murmured. Her eyes widen in surprise as she stared at him.
"Oh Yuri, it's all right-"
"No!" He gave her a hard look. "Catherine! I want to be there for you! Do you understand?" Catherine took a step back.
"Yuri…" She drop her gaze. "Things are complicated right now."
"And us?"
"I love what we have, but…"
"But you need to marry Johnny." Came a tone of distaste.
"Yes…" Tala let out a heavy sigh before pulling the woman back within his arms.
"Then… please, let us have this night?" Catherine stared up at him before nodding her head. A soft smile appeared upon his face as he held her close.
~W~
Ozuma narrowed his gaze onto Dunga's reforming. He had lost another one to that smallest warrior.
"Sailor Wind! She can cleanse nearly as well as the white goddess…" he cleansed his hand into a fist. "Damn it! I didn't come all this way to lose!" He growled. His time portal began to glow as a hearty laughter had filled the air.
"Oh Rubus!" Came a singing voice. Ozuma narrowed his gaze as a woman with long hair and voluptuous curves came into view. "Boy, I got some news for you." Smiled the woman. Ozuma arched a brow.
"Oh? You don't say, Emerald."