Beyblade Ultima

Chapter 6: Complicating matters

The Beyblade whizzed past its opponent, the two Beybladers locked into deep concentration that would not shake until one had fallen. The black and white Beyblades were head to head as they pounded down the strip of sand, the crowd cheered as the Beyblades rammed each other. One surged with magenta waves of power as a headless horseman rose from its Bit. The horseman raised his cutlass as a sign of a challenge, while his master cried out his order. "Destroy him Raust!" The horseman swung his sword and set it crashing down, however the other Beyblade moved out of reach and towards its goal – the finish line. Frustrated Raust and his master let out a scream of rage and charged forward towards their opponent. The other Beyblade was not discouraged; it doubled its moving speed and rushed towards the finish line, which loomed closer rotation by rotation. Raust swung the cutlass, slicing into the Beyblade's surface. The Beyblade flinched and appeared to fall back into the sand. Gerard, Raust's master cheered for himself and allowed the glory to fill his self while his Bit Beast awaited for the opponent to rise again. It did not, confused the Bit Beast moved closer to its fallen foe. The foe was not dead; instead it had advanced further towards the finish. Angered, Raust and Gerard filled with murderous rage and attacked. Raust pressed forward, speeding up intent on destroying the enemy that would not fall. However the victory for Raust and Gerard did not come, their opponent had won. The waves of defeat claimed its victims in a swift dance. Gerard watched as his opponent picked up their Beyblade and walked past him.

"Anger management and too much power are a bad combination." Hitori said in his dry voice and left the scene.

A newspaper extract from the Hawaiian Beyblade Times:

A marvellous victory for the Blade Breakers at yesterday's Challenge Matches! Also victorious was the White Tigers as the Blade Breakers and them worked to win the first heat of the Strategy Challenge Match. Never before was there an example of teamwork between rivalling teams in a competition like this. Heat B of the match saw the Black Skulls and the mysterious figure Hitori lead the race. The Black Skull lead guitarist Gerard and his Bit Beast Raust took down the minor teams only to be beaten by Hitori using some surprise tactics. The Beyblade Times' staff at assumes that this won't be the last of the mysterious Hitori, word on the street suggests that Hitori originates from a powerful Beyblading clan.

Continuing from the success from the Challenge Matches, the All-Starz dominated at the Action course. Their chosen blader Michael took out several of the obstacles during the course in an all-blazing talent fest. Congratulations! The winners of Heat A were the new Russian team, the Tsars who completed the course in a record 1:45:19 by pole-vaulting over the course. In the Endurance course, the team Alusia won the contest with no winners from Heat B. We wish the rest of the Challenge Match competitors in tomorrow's competition.

In other news, the Majestics opened the Shinawazi exhibition at the BBA Museum to commemorate the first Beyblade Ultima Cup. Look at the Hawaiian Beyblade Times' review of the exhibition on page 2, as your dedicated team of journalists research into the rumours surrounding this exhibition, you the public can be assured we will get all the answers! Check out our intimate interview with AJ Topper and Brad Best the most famous Beyblading commentators around on page 7.

Tyson stretched his arms, "Guys that was one of the best Beyblading events I've been too!" Everyone more or less agreed. The Blade Breakers were riding in a taxi to a special viewing of the Shinawazi exhibition; Mr Dickinson had sent them their passes while he was in meeting. "I hope this trip benefits you boys". Kenny gushed with anticipation, "Imagine how much we could learn about Beyblading!" Dizzi laughed, "Ah Kenny, your love of learning will continue to amaze me as will the puzzle of why you insist on wearing that tie everywhere." Kenny blushed as everyone laughed.

"Wow, an ancient clan of Beybladers. I haven't heard of anything like that since I left home." Ray said to no one in particular.

"It's kinda sad that they all died like that." Max added, "I wonder if anyone is left."

"If they are, I will be the first to battle them." Kai said and then turned to stare out of the window. The taxi driver grunted, "So you kids are the Blade Breakers?"

"That's right sir," Kenny nodded, "And definitely proud of it." The driver wiped his nose and looked at them through the rear vision mirror, "Yeah, you look just like a bunch of kids but my son talks like you guys were heroes or something."

"Heroes! Geez mister, I wouldn't say we're heroes… Except for me." Tyson said. The driver laughed, "Heh, you kids got a sense of humour, say would you guys mind signing something for my kid? He'd never believe me if I said I'd driven you guys to an exclusive event, what ya say?"

"Sure why not, it's nice to be asked to autograph something!" Max replied. Dizzi cheered, "Hey don't forget to sign my name down!"

The Blade Breakers stepped out of the cab and the taxi driver waved his thanks. "If you kids need a lift anywhere, tell them to send ya George E." The guys nodded and turned to head inside the museum. A long red carpet had been placed on the ground and photographers were everywhere. Tyson puffed up his chest, "I don't believe it, and they are all here to see us!"

Kai frowned, "Can it shrimp, they're here for the exhibition not air heads like you." A man in a blue suit walked up to them, "Hey you kids, if you've got no business here take a hike!" Kenny stepped forward, "On the contrary my good man, we have special passes to this prestigious event." He held out their passes, "Could you please direct us to the exhibit?" The man turned red, "Stupid kids" he mumbled. He huffed and directed them to the front door. Some photographers noticed them and began to yell out. Tyson tried to stay behind however Kenny's efforts to get him inside won. The man grumbled some more and pointed to a sign.

"Go that way." Tyson pumped his fist in the air, "Yahoo! Let's get going!" They walked quickly to the sign and turned right, following the buzzing noise of people talking, the team waked forward and then turned left at the second hallway. Unexpectedly Oliver greeted them at the entrance of the hallway, "You made it!" He greeted them one and by one and lead them inside. The Blade Breakers gapped at what they saw, people in formal dress where walking around the small exhibit. Oliver smiled, "Welcome to the Shinawazi Exhibit, I hope you like it. I have to go, I have some important business to attend too. Enjoy yourselves!" Oliver disappeared into the crowd. Max pointed out a few familiar faces, "Hey there's the All-Starz, the White Tigers, Mr D and Tyson's Grandfather… Hey look!" He waved to a girl in the crowd. "Melfina over here!" The girl walked over to them and bowed. "Congratulations on your victory today." Tyson and Max grinned, "It was nothing." Tyson admitted. Ray nudged him in the stomach, "It was nothing for you, and Drigger and I had to go through with it all." Melfina smiled weakly, "Well since you are here, I was going to ask you if you wanted a personal tour of the exhibit."

Tyson jumped, "Yeah! That would be totally awesome. What do you think Kai?" Kai crossed his arms, "Whatever." Kenny beamed, "Please you've got to show us all this historical artefacts." Dizzi cried out, "Please before my circuits get crushed!"

"Okay come this way." Melfina signalled to them, they group walked down a set of stairs. "I hope you don't mind but I think we are going to have some company." The All-Starz, White Tigers and the Blade Breakers' chaperones appeared.

"Yo little dudes, isn't this place the bomb?"

"Grandpa we haven't even seen it." Grandpa smacked Tyson on the back, "Then you haven't seen the best part."

Ray joined his former team mates in a heated debate over the quality of Beyblades while Michael walked up to Tyson and bent down.

"Hey, have you heard that hot shot Beyblader is here?" Tyson and Kenny looked confused. "What hot shot?"

Michael pointed towards a figure standing before a glass case, "Some guy called Jake Malloy, he's supposed to the latest new star. I still think I could beat him one on one any day."

Emily adjusted her glasses, "Humph, clearly you still have a problematic attitude. Malloy is an able Beyblader; it is his fame that is bothering you. You're jealous Michael."

"Yeah, well I'm not the one gushing over him!" Emily blushed, "I do not like him, Dr Judy and I are just using him as an example for our thesis."

Mr Dickinson chuckled, "Really there is no need to quarrel. Now if you ask me, that Hitori is a very interesting character."

"I agree there is something very peculiar about him. From our data we have only been able to conclude that Hitori is very powerful." Dr Judy added.

Steve grunted, "Yeah, I would still like to take him on." Everyone nodded, "As would I." Tyson replied.

"Excuse me, I understand that this is important for you all however this is an exhibition. I don't want you to waste your time and never see what is on display." Melfina said. Everyone looked a little embarrassed and said sorry. Melfina indicated for them to move forward. The tour started.

"Gary, you can eat later!" Mariah called as Kevin dragged the burly Beyblader back. Ray laughed, "That applies to you too, Tyson." Tyson moaned. The group stood before a set of boards describing the Shinawazi family, several glass cases stood next to the boards. Inside were ancient Beyblades and some modern ones.

"The Shinawazi family is a extremely ancient clan, much of the Beyblading culture of Japan has been derived from the techniques of this family. During the Kamakura shogunate, the Shinawazi family began to become a full-fledged clan. The clan's code was initially 'fight for glory'. By the Tokugawa period, the Shinawazi became a peaceful clan that began teaching others their Beyblade skills to the samurai. During this period, Beyblades were used as a means of peace control. It was likely that their enemies used these skills to use Beyblades as weapons. Several civil wars broke out and the clans started fighting for supremacy. The history during periods after the Tokugawa is scattered however the Shinawazi later emerged to teach others the art of Beyblading. The family code was changed to 'Fight and teach for peace'. When Beyblading began to spread over the world, the Shinawazi began to advocate that Beyblading was not to be used for war." Melfina breathed in, "As you can see those are some examples of the evolution of Beyblades. The ancients ones are definitely larger and the blades are very sharp. The BBA imposed a size and weight ratio to remind people that Beyblading is a sport, not warfare. Please come this way."

Dr Judy nodded, "Look everyone one, you can see that these Beyblades were built to cause serious damage. In action, these Beyblades could kill a person. In this case, you can see that Beyblades have become smaller however they are more durable, an ancient Beyblade often wore out easily. However some of the Beyblades were handed down from generation to generation."

The others passed the Beyblades; Max whispered to Tyson, "Gosh those ancient Beybladers must have been huge to carry such big blades!" Tyson nodded, "Gah, this is a bit boring."

The group stopped in front of some large glass cases, "There cases hold of the traditional Shinawazi uniform from over the years." The cases held different styles of samurai uniform, several people had gathered around to admire the cases.

Lee looked at one of the outfits, "Imagine Beyblading in one of those, the stamina of these people must have been amazing." Michael grinned, "Heh, these guys sure know how to Beyblade."

"Still I doubt that some of this old stuff would withstand modern Beyblading. It's changed a lot." Kevin commented.

Melfina indicated that they should move on, she directed them to a large tapestry. "This was completed during the Meiji period, it depicts ancient Beyblade warfare. However because of the rapid modernisation of Japan during this period, the tapestry was never completed."

Kenny and Emily lingered around the tapestry, "Amazing isn't it? The art of Beyblading has evolved so much." Emily said. Kenny agreed, "We can still learn a lot about Beyblading too. See that section, it's just proof that launchers now are still based on the same theory."

Melfina pointed out a set of drawings that had been framed, "This is known as the 'Taisen Papers'. These drawings were drawn around the late Tokugawa period; they are illustrations of Beyblade techniques. Copies of these papers can be found in Beyblade development centres around the world. The BBA have included another set of drawings from 1995 that illustrate more recent Beyblade techniques. Many people consider this the best part of the collection."

The group moved along though Ray and Mariah gazed at the pictures. "I would like to get a copy of these, it would be interesting of incorporate these." Mariah shrugged, "Our village techniques have been handed down too, but perhaps you are right when you say we should expand our ideas."

The group walked around looking at launcher designs, Beyblade samples, a techniques demonstration and a video extract of the family. Kevin pointed out another set of pictures, "Hey look these are photographs!" Everyone peered around the photos. "These are some of the family photos taken by the BBA. These are the only photos of the Shinawazi in existence since they were a private family. I believe that the BBA have announced that their ancient homestead is off limits."

"So that's where they are standing?" Eddie asked, Melfina nodded, "Yes, that photo there is the last of the family before they were… killed." The Blade Breakers looked at the photo, it was a much smaller group of people than the others. An old lady, two middle aged men, a young couple and two children. "Are they really the last of the Shinawazi?" Kenny asked.

"They were. Dr Ruth and Takeshi Shinawazi were the most famous of the family. Some of their work is displayed in the museum."

Kenny gasped and opened Dizzi's screen, "Dizzi did you hear that? Dr Ruth and Takeshi Shinawazi are one of the most famous Beyblading development teams. They designed many launchers, stadiums and re-instated the BBA code of battle."

"What were they working on?" Emily asked.

"I only know that it relates to the connections between Bit Beast and man. Though there were rumours about a development of an ultimate Bit Beast." Melfina lead them to a singular glass case surrounded by ropes; most of the crowd were standing before it.

"What's in here?" Grandpa asked, "Doesn't look like much."

"This is the last surviving Beyblade and Bit Beast of the family. When the BBA started the collection, they found this among the ruins of their house. Many Beyblade enthusiasts have tried to buy the Beyblade, however the BBA have declare it a priceless item. It is to serve as a reminder of the family's dedication to Beyblading. The Bit Beast has yet to be studied, many believe it is the strongest Bit Beast around."

"That's simply amazing. I believe Ruth and Takeshi never dreamed that their creation would be such an attraction." Dr Dickinson said to the group.

"You knew them?" Kenny asked in shock. Mr Dickinson smiled, "Yes, I did. That Beyblade was their last project together; it was a present to their daughter. She would have been your age by now."

Mariah wiped away a tear, "That's so sad that the Shinawazi family… All that glory and history just gone, like that." Ray squeezed her hand, "That's why it is important to pass on traditions to keep them alive for modern times. Although Beyblading is developing, we can still look back to our roots and remember what it was."

"Dude, that's deep. Say, can we get a closer look at that thing?" Grandpa said.

The group moved in closer to the glass case and looked at the Beyblade. The Beyblade lay in the centre of a purple pillow, the white coat of the metal shined and the centre of the Bit Beast revealed a wing creature. Tyson tried to peer closer to the case to work out what the Bit Beast was however the barrier prevented him from doing so.

"Dizzi can you scan the Bit Beast, please?" Kenny asked, Dizzi hummed. "Well Kenny, I haven't got much to tell you. The most I know is that Bit Beast packs a punch. I'm still not sure what sort of creature it is, all the signals are wrong. We are looking at something that has very high stats and energy ratings. I can't register most of them."

"That's impossible!"

Dr Judy walked up and peered at Dizzi's screen, "Hmm, I afraid Dizzi's right. I would ask to transfer the Beyblade to our research lab however the BBA would refuse the request."

Melfina watched as the teams looked and queried over the Beyblade, she had done her job pretty well. Hopefully the event would end soon and she could get some sleep. A noise behind her caused her to return her thoughts to the real world.

"It's quite a piece isn't it?" A tall boy with dark blonde hair and brown streaks, dressed in expensive black clothes stepped towards her. He gazed at her face and smiled, "It's very beautiful, much like you." He reached for her hand and held it to his lips. Melfina paled and took her hand back, "You are Jake Malloy, aren't you?" she asked warily.

Jake grinned and bowed, "Yes, you are very perceptive aren't you? Most girls would be blushing and giggling like mad in my presence. You interest me because you seem so cool and collected, plus you are very attractive."

Melfina stepped backwards, "I prefer to be complimented on my job, not how I look. I understand that you plan to challenge the Blade Breakers. I wish you luck, you may be in need of it."

He laughed, "Why, not only are you good looking, but a comedian. My dear, you should know that I have never been defeated in my whole career. I doubt your team of boys will win, even if it is just an Alpha challenge which doesn't count." Melfina bristled and turned to walk away. Jake grabbed her arm, "Please I did not mean to insult you, would you consider staying a while? It is quite lonely being a star."

Melfina did not look back at him, "If you are lonely being a star, you only need to look at the other stars. With so many stars in the sky, one forgets that they are a single being. There are many Beybladers in the world; they are just as skilled as you. Do not forget that, there are always more stars even if one dies." She shook his arm off and walked away. Jake stared at her, a challenge. She is a very tempting girl, what a pity that she has yet to experience the full potential 'Fire rocket' has. If one star is alone, then why shouldn't another join him?

The next morning the Blade Breakers found an interesting letter delivered to their hotel suite.

Dear Blade Breakers, you have been challenged by Jake 'Fire rocket' Malloy to an Alpha battle. The event will take place at the Summer Break bowl at noon. The rules will be a one on one battle between Mr Malloy and a chosen player from your team. The battle will be one round, with the first blade to be defeated or knocked out of the ring will determine the loser. The victor will also claim a prize from the losing team. Mr Malloy wishes you the best of luck and may the best man win.

Kenny looked up as he finished reading the letter, "So should we accept? Our 2nd round match with the Tsars isn't until 2:30."

Grandpa looked wary, "I don't like the sound of this, he sounds a little fishy. I think he's up to something."

Tyson jumped off his bed, "I say we should! It sounds like someone has to battle him, why not the best out of the best?"

Ray agreed, "The competition has just started, getting more battles will give us more practise for tougher opponents."

"I want to see what's so great about this guy," Max added. "I saw a TV commercial for him, it claimed he was the newest star with no losses in his entire career."

Kai took the letter out of Kenny's hands, "This is going to be my battle, I'm going to show you how to Beyblade." Kai placed the letter in his pocket and walked towards the door. Upon opening he stepped backwards as a blonde boy pushed past him. Mr Dickinson followed him, "Boys, this is Jake Malloy. Mr Malloy, I do think it is very rude for you to come and discuss your very unreasonable terms with my team."

Jake laughed, "They had to hear it sometime Stanley." Mr Dickinson turned purple, "Do not call me that. You are to address me properly." Jake laughed again and flopped onto one of the beds, "Well I am sure you are aware that one of us will win and therefore claim a prize. I have come to inform you of what I would like."
Mr Dickinson stamped his cane on the floor, "Boys I ask you not to negotiate on his terms."

Tyson looked at Jake, "Let's hear this guy out first, then we will decide."

"A wise man, if you win I will gladly give you access to my training facility at the Summer Break hotel. However if I win, you will transfer all your BUC dealings to another Junior Representative and your delightful Junior Rep will be working for me."

Grandpa stood up and pointed his kendo stick at Jake, "I knew it, that little brat was up to something!"

"The little cheat! I ought to show him a piece of my mind." Dizzi yelled out.

Jake stood up, "I will wait outside for your decision. If you don't accept, well who knows what will happen to Miss Melfina. She might not be working for you for too long."

The team huddled together, "Can you believe the nerve of that guy? What is he up too?" Tyson asked.

Ray looked puzzled, "Why would he want Melfina? I thought he would have wanted our Bit Beasts." Kenny nodded, "That's true, I think there is something funny going on. Mr Dickinson has Melfina told you anything."

Mr Dickinson shook his head, "I'm afraid not. When Malloy informed me about this, I had called her office to investigate the matter however she was not there. I am worried about her safety and involvement in this matter."

Max scratched his head, "I guess we have no choice but to accept. We won't be able to find out unless we do."

Grandpa pumped his fist, "That's a good idea, we could trick him in to believing we've brought Melfina. When you guys beat him, we'll just get the answer of him."

"Wait everybody, I don't think this is going to work. However… I think we have to accept; Melfina may be in danger if we don't."

Everyone turned to Kai, "What do you say Kai? After all you're captain."

"Pah, this punk has some nerve trying to win a girl off us. Idiots like that shouldn't be Beyblading; I'll just have to show him who has got more guts. Him or us."

"Right, Mr Dickinson please inform our opponent of our decision. It's a battle."

"Let it rip!"

Jake Malloy stood outside the door and grinned a secret grin; all was going according to plan. Once he had the girl, all the secrets of the BBA were his. Not too mention the battle tactics of thousands of teams. Although a Junior Rep had to organise events for one team, their knowledge about the other teams was astounding.

"Soon my dear, so very soon."

Author's Notes: I know there wasn't much Beyblade battle sequences in this chapter however the next chapter should be full of it as the BUC matches get a little heated up. Thank you for reading my fic so far, I'm glad people are enjoying it. I will be continuing Tala's side story soon. The character of Hitori is becoming a little more mysterious but all his secrets will be revealed in later chapters. Jake Malloy is my own character; he does come across as a conceited boy. He'll get his just desserts later, though I'm not sure how his obsession with Melfina started. She's not the sort of girl he would be interested in. Normally he would use the charm but he's playing hard to get something he wants. Sorry that the museum scene was so boring however I am attempting to cover a lot of aspects of Beyblading that the show never mentioned that much.