Title: Resurfacing
Authoress: Ladya C. Maxine
Rating: R
Summary: see chapter one.
Warnings: see chapter one.
Disclaimer: I do not own Beyblade or any of its characters. Any and all unrecognizable characters belong solely to me and are not to be touched. I am not making any money off of this and I write with the sole intention to entertain.
*************
"Mr Tate, Mr Tate, over here please!"
"Ray, what is your relationship with your former White Tiger team mate Mariah?"
"Mr Hiwatari, what do your markings symbolise?"
"A picture please, Mr. Granger!"
"Now that you and your team are the world champions, are you glad that you left the White Tigers team?"
"Tyson, is it true that you got that black eye when you jumped in front of a truck to protect a little child who had toddled onto a busy street?"
"Have you ever considered doing commercials for hair products, Mr Kon?"
"Mr. Hiwatari, is it true that you once dated the minister's daughter?"
"Mr Granger, are you making some kind of fashion statement with your ensemble of clothes?"
"Whoa, can you guys believe this?" Tyson looked out the window, waving to the dozens of reporters and camera crews that lined the sidewalk before the large arena, shouting out questions as the limo passed them.
Most of their words were drowned out by shrieking fan girls who jumped up and down while clapping their hands giddily. Signs were waved above their heads with 'I love Ray' and 'Marry me, Kai' all over the place. One group of glasses wielding girls was even doing a Kenny-cheer.
"It's just the hype. By tomorrow it will all wind down," Ray informed from where he sat next to Kai.
"Which means we've got soak in it while it's still here!"
Tyson rolled down his window and stuck his head outside, hollering and waving to the crowd which turned up several notches when the Dragoon blader showed his face.
"Oh no, you don't! You're not gonna hog all the spotlight!" Max opened the sun roof and stood on the seat. Again the crowd grew even louder as the blond greeted them.
"I've never seen them this excited," Ray laughed. He was just as pumped as his friends but knew to keep his cool. "They're so gonna be busted tomorrow morning. Guess they won't be able to train early then?"
He smiled at Kai but the blue haired boy didn't seem to have heard him. The red eyes were trained on the concrete street outside though he wasn't really looking at anything.
"Hey, Kai! You gotta come out here! Some girls out here are wearing bikini tops and your name is spelled out on their stomachs!" Tyson called back behind him but his attention was once more caught by someone in the crowd. "What did you say?! Yeah, I'll date ya!"
Ray smiled at Tyson's enthusiasm but Kai didn't even blink. There was something different about the phoenix; he didn't appear as menacing as normal and his fists weren't clenched with want to punch Tyson for screaming so loud.
"Kai, are you there, pal?" Ray placed a hand on the bare shoulder and was surprised when Kai jumped at the contact.
Red eyes fixed on him with a moment of...fear?! Kai was never afraid of anything since everything was always afraid of him.
Seeing the look Ray withdrew his hand.
"Um...sorry about that. Are you okay?"
Kai sighed. When he had felt the sudden contact his mind had taken a one- way trip into his past. Why a simple gesture as this would trigger this reactions he didn't know but it probably had something to do with the fact that he was going to have to see Boris one more time.
"I'm just a bit tired. That's all," he assured Ray who was about to ask more when Tyson yanked on his ponytail.
"I'm not kidding, Ray! They are singing your name like it's a national anthem or something!"
Giving in, Ray peeked out of the limo. The cameras flashed so brightly and frequently that he almost went blind and the roar of the crowd nearly made him deaf.
Kai watched his team blow kisses and pose for the cameras with a small smile on his face.
They were just being themselves. Kids who were having a good time. Will he ever be able to do that?
A hand rested on his arm but since he hadn't dazed off he wasn't taken off- guard. He turned his head to look at Mr. Dickenson. The old manager had taken the space next to him while Bruce sat opposite the two. Both adults had spent the entire trip writing and discussing small speeches for each Bladebreaker. Apparently Tyson's self-written speech 'We rock, they suck!' wasn't considered proper champion language.
"I'm okay," he said automatically.
Neither fell for it.
"Just stay with the team and don't go off by yourself. The moment Tala and the others are safely away from Boris my people will move in. All will go well, Kai." The old man smiled and patted his shoulder.
"We're here!!" Tyson popped back in, breaking the moment. "Come on, guys! It's show time!"
"Can you at least wait until the limo stops?" Bruce laughed at his son's eagerness.
No sooner had he spoken the words when the door was flung open and there stood, not their chauffeur, but Mr Granger himself.
"Hey cats, dig this crazy scene!"
"I'm digging it!" Tyson bounced out of the limo, striking a pose right then and there.
The world turned white when all cameras went off at the opportunity, the shutters fluttering and the lights flashing furiously. The media were screaming out questions and requests.
"This is so cool!" Tyson smiled and waved as he made his way through the throng of reporters, striking outrageous poses wherever there was a camera. "We're like celebrities or something!"
"Yeah!" Max agreed as he signed a young girl's arms with a marker. She promptly fainted.
Both bladers exchanged a wondrous look.
"WE RULE!!" Slapping high-fives, they ran down the red carpet towards the grand glass entrance, signing signatures and chatting with the reporters like they were old friends.
"Do we dare to leave the limo?" Ray asked Kai who graced him with a small smile as he shook his head at Tyson and Max who were currently shaking hands with a couple of the ceremony's top organizers.
"Do we have a choice?" He waited until Ray scooted out and then followed suite.
No aircraft to date could ever out do the sonic boom that erupted from the crowd as the two eldest Bladebreakers stepped out onto the red carpet. The security that had been stationed along either side of the entrance had to call for back-up as they held the crowd at bay. The sight of these big, strong men struggling to hold back teenage girls less than a half of their body weight was comical and Ray smiled which brought an even bigger reaction.
"We have better get you two inside before they storm the carpet!" Bruce shouted over the riot as he ushered the teens towards the entrance. Mr Dickenson followed, speaking on his cell phone.
As they walked towards their two renegade team mates, a fan somehow managed to slip beneath the guards' arms and grabbed hold of the tail from Kai's scarf, almost yanking it completely off in the process. The knot undid itself a bit and the white cloth fell away from the teen's neck. Before any more damage could be done Bruce was able to peal the sobbing girl off the startled teen and handed her over to a guard who escorted her off the grounds.
"I LOVE YOU, KAI!!"
Shaking his head he started to redo his scarf when a hand on his stopped his action. Ray's eyes were wide as he took in the dark mark on his friend's neck. Knowing that the press would just love to get this in the papers if they saw it, he quickly adjusted the white scarf though his eyes remained serious.
"Thanks," Kai mouthed, feeling even more shaken from his friend discovering the marks than when the psycho fan had bombarded him.
"We are in serious need of a talk," Ray whispered in his ear as they continued, this time staying near to each other should another fan attack them. The press was feeding off what had just happened.
"How will you react to this turn of events?"
"Will you be suing that young lady for assault and battery?"
"Has this ever happened to you too, Mr Kon?"
"How much does your scarf cost?"
"Mr. Kon, are the rumours that you and Mr Hiwatari are a couple true?"
***************
While the crowd's attention was focused on the happenings in front of the spotlighted arena a jet-black limo pulled up to the back entrance followed by an equally dark van. The headlights were killed as both vehicles came to a halt.
Voltaire stepped out of his luxurious ride dressed in tuxedo with a heavy wolf-furred coat draped over his shoulders. A shiny black cane with a silver serpent head was gripped a broad hand. He looked every bit the multi millionaire but tonight he would collect an even more valuable reward than all his money combined.
The sound of the van's rear doors opening garnered his attention and he walked over to where Boris stood watching the four boys as they were led out of the vehicle, hands handcuffed in front of them. Bryan almost tripped but caught himself though his pained hiss didn't go unnoticed. Boris smirked at the boy's pain but did nothing about it. He turned to the heavily armed guards.
"Remove their restrains."
The guards obliged and unlocked the cruel handcuffs from Bryan, Ian and Spencer. However, when one went to take off Tala's Boris' voice stopped him.
"Leave his on, for now anyway." He took hold of a slender wrist and drew Tala away from the others. He placed unnecessary force on the wrist knowing that the small metal spikes that lined the cuff's inner ring will make their presence known.
The purple-haired man snapped his fingers and the guards snapped to attention, withdrawing various fire arms and training them on the three bladers. Boris smirked when he felt Tala stiffen beside him. In a warning gesture he placed a hand on the small of the lean back before addressing the targeted boys who were glaring at him for touching their captain.
"The three of you will go to your appointed room and wait for me there. You will show your faces only when the time comes to hand over the trophy. You will not even look at the media. You will not express any emotions. You will not talk. Had I the power you would not even breathe. Bryan, you will be the one to give the trophy to whichever brat they choose to accept it. You will keep your gaze barren and distant. If you disobey in the smallest manner than I can guarantee you that I will take action."
To back his words up he pulled back his coat to reveal a shining revolver. Removing it he traced the end of the barrel down the side of Tala's face before placing it to the boy's temple.
"Am I understood?" he raised a brow.
"Yes, sir," all three answered quickly.
"Good. Escort our former *champions* to locker room 16."
As they were being lead away Ian and Bryan both turned their heads to cast a worried look at Tala, who Boris still had his hand on.
The blue eyes answered their silent concerns, "I'll be alright. Make sure to help Spencer."
The scientist had been able to restore some form of sight but the blond could still only see a very blurred world.
The doors closed with a sharp click and they were gone. He didn't have much time to pray for their safety when the hand that had been on his back now took hold of his hip and turned him to face the man he hated more than anything else.
"As for you, you still have an important part to play."
Something was pressed into his hand. He felt the familiar cool of metal surface. Wolborg.
"You know your task. Use that mutt if you want to, but get me my grandson." Voltaire stepped up, face colder than the air around them. "I have a plane to catch at 11 and Kai is coming with me."
Waving his hand in dismissal he turned but a soft voice stopped him.
"No."
"What did you say?" He turned narrowed eyes on the red-head.
"I won't let you hurt him again."
"Boris, I believe that this bitch needs to be broken some more."
The cane was raised, the adorned snake grip glistening, ready to strike. Tala closed his eyes as he awaited the blow but when nothing happened he dared to peak. Boris held the cane just inches from where it had almost smashed into his face.
"What is the meaning of this, Boris? I have never known you to start feeling for your whores," Voltaire growled as he pulled his cane free from the other man's hand.
"Believe me, I don't. Nothing would please me more right now than to pummel him right here in the parking lot. But it took us all day to make him presentable and we cannot run the risk of having his wounds reopen. You do want to get Kai and then get the hell away from here, don't you."
Voltaire growled an agreement but his eyes remained murderous. Taking hold of the teen's shirt he got in his face, hot breath causing the fine bangs to sway with each word.
"You *will* do well to follow my instructions, Tala. What applies for your team mates also apply for you. Any rebellion from you and I will guarantee you that the media will have a wonderful time covering the story of three bodies found shot and mutilated right here in the parking lot. Do I make myself clear?"
When the boy faltered he gave him a vicious shake.
"Answer me!"
"...yes..." Tala stared wide-eyed at the older man, shaken to the core. Again a hand gripped his hip and twisted him around to face Boris whose eyes were warning him on the pain of death.
"Don't you dare screw this up, Tala. Deliver Kai to us and I will reconsider selling you to the American. In fact..." A wonderfully evil idea came to mind. "I will make you a deal. Get Kai back and I will release you from the Abbey."
"No. I won't let you touch him again."
"Hm, very honourable notion but I know you the type to sacrifice yourself for others. Will you be just as stubborn if I wager the others' freedom as well? Once Kai has been returned I will allow you *and* Ian, Bryan and Spencer to leave the Abbey. Would you turn down your friends chances of freedom for the sake of Kai's?"
He could have hit no lower than that. How could he choose?
Kai was his best friend but did that overthrow the three other friendships he treasured in close second? If he turned it down they would return to the abbey to undergo the beatings and starvation. He had overheard the scientists saying that unless Bryan's leg was properly operated on they would have to amputate it soon. Not that they couldn't, all the scientists at the abbey were of high schooling, but Boris forbade them to, enjoying the lilac-haired Russian's handicap.
'If I turn this down then they will all die. But I can't betray Kai...'
Tears of confusion stung his eyes and he lowered his head in misery.
What was he going to do?
**************
"This is so neat. Check it out! My name is printed on the chair!"
"Yes, Tyson, it's been there for the past hour," Kenny sighed, adjusting his bow tie.
"Oh, hey! What's that?"
Grabbing the small boy by the wrist he dragged him off in the direction of whatever it was he had seen. Not about to be left out of a potential laugh Max hurried behind them and the three were soon swallowed up by the crowd.
"I can't believe what they've done to this place. It looks like a palace!" Mariah commented from where she sat in her sparkling pink dress next to Ray and the rest of the White Tigers.
"Duh! It *is* a palace. They only turned it into a stadium at the turn of the century. It used to be the home of the Czar and his family who--"
"Spare us the fun facts, Emily," Michael cut in with a stressed yawn. He lounged on his chair, feet on the table. They had repeatedly told him to sit properly but he ignored them for the most part. "This is a party. Quit your trivia and get me something to drink."
"Ooh! You...you....ugh!" Cutting eye with him she returned to her laptop which she had seated on her lap.
Like Mariah's earlier observation the arena had gotten a complete make- over. How it was possible that they had been able to move in several hundreds of seats and tables, plus sound stage, lighting, press conference table and buffet not to mention paint and decorate the enormous area within a course of just 4 days was a mystery, But the music was good and the food was great so no one really dwelled on that for long.
The guests were made up out of three main groups: the bladers who included the champions as well as those who had participated in the exhibition matches. And of course close family and friends were there too. The second group, and the largest, were the BBA personnel and the Russian beyblading organizers. Top ranking managers, owners, financiers, and other very important people walked about in their expensive gowns and tux's. And last but not least was a selective media group. Not the raging crowd from outside, thankfully; these were of a more...dignified...class who were actually polite.
Still, they unnerved him every time they came up to ask for a picture or an interview. Was it just him or did they seem to be focusing mainly on him as if they knew that he was hiding something?
'Cut it out! You're getting paranoid!' He forced himself to calm down though he seriously would have preferred to get in the limo and go home.
He had taken Mr Dickenson's advice and stayed with the group though not too close or they would get suspicious. Leaning against the wall within sight of where the majority of his friends and fellow bladers sat talking and laughing he was mainly drifting in and out of focus. Tyson's rather loud return pulled him to reality for good.
"Hey, guys, do you know that they have ginormous ice sculptures of our bit beasts back there?! It is the coolest!!" Plopping down he stretched back and folded his hands behind his head. "You know, I am really gonna like this whole champion thing."
"Just don't let your head become even more detached from the rest of your body...though you could stand to lose a few pounds," Enrique cracked and everyone exploded with laugher which garnered them some curious glances from the adults around them.
"Very funny, Enrique-poo. Laugh all you want but we will see who will laugh last when that trophy is in our hands! Which pose do you think I should use?"
He started striking possible candidates for his trophy acceptance pictures. The others laughed, cheering or booing out their opinions.
Their camaraderie was interrupted by a waiter dressed in spotless black tuxedo with cuffs.
"Anything to drink for the guests of honour?"
Big mistake as he was bombarded with orders. It took him many minutes before he had everything written down.
"Two diet sprites for the lovely ladies. 5 cokes, 2 root beers, 3 ginger ales, and you, gentlemen?" He turned to the Majestics who each ordered some wine or champagne that was damn near impossible to repeat but very expensive. Then again, the others hadn't expected anything less from the four royals.
"Something to drink, Lord Hiwatari?" The man straightened his already disciplined posture even more as he addressed Kai who had slipped off into his own thoughts once more. Right now he needed something to clear his mind and spoke out the first thing that came to mind, forgetting the fact that the others could hear him.
"Bloody Martini. And make it three dashes of Worchestershire instead of two."
"The usual 1 1/2 oz. Vodka?"
"Just for this one shot."
"As you wish, lord Hiwatari."
With a small bow he turned and disappeared to where the bar stood surrounded by patrons who were enjoying the free alcoholic beverages.
Kai was about to drift out again when he noticed that the others were strangely silent. 16 pairs of wide eyes stared at him as 16 mouths almost touched the floor. If he hadn't been under so much pressure he would have laughed at their expressions but now he could only raise a brow in simple questioning.
"What's wrong?"
"Bloody Martini? Have you any idea how strong that stuff is?!" Kenny's voice squeaked.
"I need something to clear my mind."
"Don't you have to be 18 and older to order something so strong?" Lee asked, mentally patting himself on the back for being able to come out of his stupor long enough to speak.
Kai simply shrugged his shoulders and shut them out as he went back to his musings. Every now and then he would look out into the large crowd before him hoping to see a flash of red hair but it was all a sea of black tuxedos and glimmering evening gowns.
'Where is he keeping you? Is he still hurting you even now?'
There had not been no signs whatsoever of the Demolition Boys all night. The others simply waved it off saying that the Russian team was too ashamed to spend any time longer than needed. He wasn't about to enlighten them on the dark truth but the unspent concern was wreaking havoc inside him.
"Your drinks, ladies and gentlemen."
Their waiter had returned balancing 17 drinks on two big trays. Those who think that being a waiter is an easy job should try themselves to walk through a constantly moving mass while juggling liquids on flat surfaces. But this guy was a seasoned waiter.
Having dealt them all their drinks he carried the remaining drink to its owner who still leaned against the wall, arms crossed and eyes closed. The crimson pair opened slowly when he sensed another near. Wordlessly he picked up his equally red drink and nodded a 'thank you' to the waiter who bowed and slipped away again.
Taking the first sip he allowed the burning drink to roll about on his tongue for a few seconds before swallowing. The heat burned its way down till his stomachs. It could have used a bit more tobasco but right now he needed the simple momentary sting to keep himself in check.
"Are you drunk already?"
Blinking out of his trance he looked into Tyson's imploring eyes. He had never thought that the navy-haired boy could move without making a sound but sure enough he stood right before him, eyes training on him, then the vodka, and then him again.
"Get real." He took another sip, larger this time in hopes of maybe making this unwanted illusion disappear. No such luck as Tyson spoke again.
"Can I try it?"
"You're too young."
"Oh, puh-lease! You're only a year older and not even 18 yet."
"Your point?"
"Your little friend is right, Kai. Drinking has dire consequences for those who are under-age."
Fighting the urge to bolt, Kai looked past Tyson's shoulder up into Boris' stone-grey eyes. His grip on the glass trembled and he lowered it to his side to prevent the others from seeing the drink slosh over the side from his shaking hand. Schooling his rampaging fears he nodded a greeting but kept his eyes averted. In the mean time the others sat in silence, eyes narrowed in extreme distrust towards the man.
"I simply wanted to congratulate you and your immense success. I've seen many who have easily fallen to the power and all out cunning technique of my boys," Boris' eyes shifted pointedly to the White Tigers and All Starz.
"Yes, it is too great a shame that they short-circuited during the most crucial part of the tournament," Robert spoke up. He was the eldest of the whole group, having his 17th birthday behind his back, and had already have dealt with people like this one.
A cold smirk sent shivers down all their spines.
"You speak as if I treat my boys like mere war instruments. I'll have you know that I take good care of my pupils and they are normally begging for my teaching. Isn't that right, Kai?"
The look of complete lust went unseen by the others but he saw it flickering behind the supposedly emotionless eyes. The man seemed to tower over him taller than usual and he could feel the eyes undressing him right there on the spot. He could feel those rough hands on him.
"Is there something you wish to discuss with my team and their friends?" Mr Dickenson appeared from amongst the crowd. Behind him walked Mr Granger and Bruce. The latter's fists balled at the sight of cold-eyed Russian.
"It is good to see you too, Stanley," Boris said, purposefully addressing the head of the BBA informally, goading his reaction. In the meantime his eyes kept on roaming over Kai's body.
For his part Mr Dickenson ignored the disrespectful tone but he was well aware of the man's close proximity to Kai and it unnerved him. The young man couldn't even look his aggressor in the eyes and he could see the fine trembles that he was trying to hide from his fellow bladers.
"Like wise, I suppose, though you have not answered my question." As he spoke he casually placed himself between Boris and Kai. The director blinked out of the trance he had been in and finally made eye contact with the elderly man.
"I was just telling my young apprentice here how proud I am of him. He has learned well. Should he ever wish for any more lessons he is more than welcomed to visit us at the abbey again. We do miss your presence." He smirked, "Especially Tala."
The words were effective and Mr Dickenson heard a sharp intake of breath from behind him. He could see that Bruce was restraining himself though the dark-haired man was shooting daggers and bullets at Boris. The bladers watched the exchange with growing apprehension and bewilderment though something flickered in Ray's golden eyes if but for a second.
"I'm afraid that I am going to have to ask you not to trouble these youngsters again for the rest of the evening." He spoke in a dead serious voice that no one had ever heard him use before.
Boris held up his hand as if to hold off an attack.
"I wish not for any conflict. It would appear that I have overstayed my welcome so I shall take my leave. We will see each other soon."
He allowed his eyes the pleasure of studying the blue-haired boy's body before tearing them off and walking away.
"What was that all about?" Tyson asked, looking between the manager and Kai.
"Nothing, Tyson. Boris simply wishes to ruin your evening." Mr Dickenson kept his eyes on Boris till the man was out of sight and then turned to Kai who was collecting himself. For the boy to experience such fear from just seeing Boris his treatment at the director's hands must have been plainly barbaric.
"Are you alright, Kai?" he asked softly when the other teens went back to their earlier conversation. His eyes soften when the bluenette shook his head. "Is there anything I can do?"
"I need to be alone."
"I do not think it wise to let you go off by yourself. Boris is around and-- "
"Please, sir?" The crimson pairs begged the old man to understand. He needed to be away from all this celebrating and people. He needed some quiet time. In his mind he kept on replaying Boris smirking tone as he mentioned Tala's name. "I won't take long."
He sighed. He would never forgive himself if anything was to happen to the phoenix but he knew that Kai would feel much more comfortable if he wasn't amongst so many people.
"Alright," he removed a set of keys from his pockets, "these belong to the offices upstairs but I will not let you go without an escort."
He spotted Bruce nearby talking with his father.
"Bruce, a moment of your time, if you don't mind?"
When the younger man came over he explained the plan to him.
"Just make sure he reaches the offices safely. Give him 30 minutes and then go back for him. Does that sound okay to you, Kai?"
"Yes, Mr. Dickenson." His eyes darted about over the crowd, fearing to see Boris watching him. He took another mouthful of his glass.
"Then we will meet you behind the stage in 30 minutes for the trophy exchange," he said as he took the vodka from the boy's hands. "And I would advise you to lay off the alcohol if just for tonight. Light headed is something we can't afford you to get."
"Thank you, sir." Giving the room a final look he followed Bruce towards the elevators.
"Hey! Where are you going?" Tyson had caught sight of them leaving.
"Kai has something to attend to. He'll be back soon."
"Oh." That was all that was needed to put the dragon at ease.
However, while everyone went back to cheering on Tyson's outrageous poses, golden eyes remained on where their team captain had disappeared.
'What is going on with you, Kai?'
*************
*~*~*~begin flashback~*~*~*
He hissed in pain, causing the hands that had been gently wiping the angry welts on his back with a soft cloth to pull away immediately.
"Tala...?"
Mutely, he nodded for the other to continue, feeling the bed shift beneath them as Kai resumed his spot next to the hurting redhead, sitting on the edge of the mattress as he took care of a particular swollen mark on one shoulder.
"Almost done," he assured when the ten-year-old redhead flinched again.
"What does it matter? He's going to do it again anyways..."
Drying off his work, Kai watched his friend sadly before placing the things on the floor and lying down next to him. Tala turned his head to face him, remaining on his stomach. Sighing, he rested his forehead against Kai's, feeling the warm breath blowing softly on his face.
"Thanks, Kai. I don't know what I would do without you."
Brushing away the drying tears from Tala's face, Kai smiled softly.
"I don't know what *I* would do without *you*. You're my best friend, Tala. I will do anything for you."
"Me too. Nothing can ever make me break our friendship."
They fell asleep with their promises and each other.
*~*~*~end flashback~*~*~*
Ice blue eyes watched from the shadowed hallway as Kai followed the other man down the hall. They stopped at an office door and the man opened it. After exchanging some words the man walked away as Kai closed the door. A soft click was heard as it was locked.
He pulled out the blue and grey beyblade from his pocket, eyes studying the winged wolf in the middle which glowed with the want to help its master.
Tears trickled from his eyes and he clutched the blade to his chest. The usual cold surface now warmed him but it did him little good. With a resolved breath he opened his eyes.
"I am sorry, but I have no choice. Forgive me, Kai."
tbc......
**************
Read & Review, please.
Authoress: Ladya C. Maxine
Rating: R
Summary: see chapter one.
Warnings: see chapter one.
Disclaimer: I do not own Beyblade or any of its characters. Any and all unrecognizable characters belong solely to me and are not to be touched. I am not making any money off of this and I write with the sole intention to entertain.
*************
"Mr Tate, Mr Tate, over here please!"
"Ray, what is your relationship with your former White Tiger team mate Mariah?"
"Mr Hiwatari, what do your markings symbolise?"
"A picture please, Mr. Granger!"
"Now that you and your team are the world champions, are you glad that you left the White Tigers team?"
"Tyson, is it true that you got that black eye when you jumped in front of a truck to protect a little child who had toddled onto a busy street?"
"Have you ever considered doing commercials for hair products, Mr Kon?"
"Mr. Hiwatari, is it true that you once dated the minister's daughter?"
"Mr Granger, are you making some kind of fashion statement with your ensemble of clothes?"
"Whoa, can you guys believe this?" Tyson looked out the window, waving to the dozens of reporters and camera crews that lined the sidewalk before the large arena, shouting out questions as the limo passed them.
Most of their words were drowned out by shrieking fan girls who jumped up and down while clapping their hands giddily. Signs were waved above their heads with 'I love Ray' and 'Marry me, Kai' all over the place. One group of glasses wielding girls was even doing a Kenny-cheer.
"It's just the hype. By tomorrow it will all wind down," Ray informed from where he sat next to Kai.
"Which means we've got soak in it while it's still here!"
Tyson rolled down his window and stuck his head outside, hollering and waving to the crowd which turned up several notches when the Dragoon blader showed his face.
"Oh no, you don't! You're not gonna hog all the spotlight!" Max opened the sun roof and stood on the seat. Again the crowd grew even louder as the blond greeted them.
"I've never seen them this excited," Ray laughed. He was just as pumped as his friends but knew to keep his cool. "They're so gonna be busted tomorrow morning. Guess they won't be able to train early then?"
He smiled at Kai but the blue haired boy didn't seem to have heard him. The red eyes were trained on the concrete street outside though he wasn't really looking at anything.
"Hey, Kai! You gotta come out here! Some girls out here are wearing bikini tops and your name is spelled out on their stomachs!" Tyson called back behind him but his attention was once more caught by someone in the crowd. "What did you say?! Yeah, I'll date ya!"
Ray smiled at Tyson's enthusiasm but Kai didn't even blink. There was something different about the phoenix; he didn't appear as menacing as normal and his fists weren't clenched with want to punch Tyson for screaming so loud.
"Kai, are you there, pal?" Ray placed a hand on the bare shoulder and was surprised when Kai jumped at the contact.
Red eyes fixed on him with a moment of...fear?! Kai was never afraid of anything since everything was always afraid of him.
Seeing the look Ray withdrew his hand.
"Um...sorry about that. Are you okay?"
Kai sighed. When he had felt the sudden contact his mind had taken a one- way trip into his past. Why a simple gesture as this would trigger this reactions he didn't know but it probably had something to do with the fact that he was going to have to see Boris one more time.
"I'm just a bit tired. That's all," he assured Ray who was about to ask more when Tyson yanked on his ponytail.
"I'm not kidding, Ray! They are singing your name like it's a national anthem or something!"
Giving in, Ray peeked out of the limo. The cameras flashed so brightly and frequently that he almost went blind and the roar of the crowd nearly made him deaf.
Kai watched his team blow kisses and pose for the cameras with a small smile on his face.
They were just being themselves. Kids who were having a good time. Will he ever be able to do that?
A hand rested on his arm but since he hadn't dazed off he wasn't taken off- guard. He turned his head to look at Mr. Dickenson. The old manager had taken the space next to him while Bruce sat opposite the two. Both adults had spent the entire trip writing and discussing small speeches for each Bladebreaker. Apparently Tyson's self-written speech 'We rock, they suck!' wasn't considered proper champion language.
"I'm okay," he said automatically.
Neither fell for it.
"Just stay with the team and don't go off by yourself. The moment Tala and the others are safely away from Boris my people will move in. All will go well, Kai." The old man smiled and patted his shoulder.
"We're here!!" Tyson popped back in, breaking the moment. "Come on, guys! It's show time!"
"Can you at least wait until the limo stops?" Bruce laughed at his son's eagerness.
No sooner had he spoken the words when the door was flung open and there stood, not their chauffeur, but Mr Granger himself.
"Hey cats, dig this crazy scene!"
"I'm digging it!" Tyson bounced out of the limo, striking a pose right then and there.
The world turned white when all cameras went off at the opportunity, the shutters fluttering and the lights flashing furiously. The media were screaming out questions and requests.
"This is so cool!" Tyson smiled and waved as he made his way through the throng of reporters, striking outrageous poses wherever there was a camera. "We're like celebrities or something!"
"Yeah!" Max agreed as he signed a young girl's arms with a marker. She promptly fainted.
Both bladers exchanged a wondrous look.
"WE RULE!!" Slapping high-fives, they ran down the red carpet towards the grand glass entrance, signing signatures and chatting with the reporters like they were old friends.
"Do we dare to leave the limo?" Ray asked Kai who graced him with a small smile as he shook his head at Tyson and Max who were currently shaking hands with a couple of the ceremony's top organizers.
"Do we have a choice?" He waited until Ray scooted out and then followed suite.
No aircraft to date could ever out do the sonic boom that erupted from the crowd as the two eldest Bladebreakers stepped out onto the red carpet. The security that had been stationed along either side of the entrance had to call for back-up as they held the crowd at bay. The sight of these big, strong men struggling to hold back teenage girls less than a half of their body weight was comical and Ray smiled which brought an even bigger reaction.
"We have better get you two inside before they storm the carpet!" Bruce shouted over the riot as he ushered the teens towards the entrance. Mr Dickenson followed, speaking on his cell phone.
As they walked towards their two renegade team mates, a fan somehow managed to slip beneath the guards' arms and grabbed hold of the tail from Kai's scarf, almost yanking it completely off in the process. The knot undid itself a bit and the white cloth fell away from the teen's neck. Before any more damage could be done Bruce was able to peal the sobbing girl off the startled teen and handed her over to a guard who escorted her off the grounds.
"I LOVE YOU, KAI!!"
Shaking his head he started to redo his scarf when a hand on his stopped his action. Ray's eyes were wide as he took in the dark mark on his friend's neck. Knowing that the press would just love to get this in the papers if they saw it, he quickly adjusted the white scarf though his eyes remained serious.
"Thanks," Kai mouthed, feeling even more shaken from his friend discovering the marks than when the psycho fan had bombarded him.
"We are in serious need of a talk," Ray whispered in his ear as they continued, this time staying near to each other should another fan attack them. The press was feeding off what had just happened.
"How will you react to this turn of events?"
"Will you be suing that young lady for assault and battery?"
"Has this ever happened to you too, Mr Kon?"
"How much does your scarf cost?"
"Mr. Kon, are the rumours that you and Mr Hiwatari are a couple true?"
***************
While the crowd's attention was focused on the happenings in front of the spotlighted arena a jet-black limo pulled up to the back entrance followed by an equally dark van. The headlights were killed as both vehicles came to a halt.
Voltaire stepped out of his luxurious ride dressed in tuxedo with a heavy wolf-furred coat draped over his shoulders. A shiny black cane with a silver serpent head was gripped a broad hand. He looked every bit the multi millionaire but tonight he would collect an even more valuable reward than all his money combined.
The sound of the van's rear doors opening garnered his attention and he walked over to where Boris stood watching the four boys as they were led out of the vehicle, hands handcuffed in front of them. Bryan almost tripped but caught himself though his pained hiss didn't go unnoticed. Boris smirked at the boy's pain but did nothing about it. He turned to the heavily armed guards.
"Remove their restrains."
The guards obliged and unlocked the cruel handcuffs from Bryan, Ian and Spencer. However, when one went to take off Tala's Boris' voice stopped him.
"Leave his on, for now anyway." He took hold of a slender wrist and drew Tala away from the others. He placed unnecessary force on the wrist knowing that the small metal spikes that lined the cuff's inner ring will make their presence known.
The purple-haired man snapped his fingers and the guards snapped to attention, withdrawing various fire arms and training them on the three bladers. Boris smirked when he felt Tala stiffen beside him. In a warning gesture he placed a hand on the small of the lean back before addressing the targeted boys who were glaring at him for touching their captain.
"The three of you will go to your appointed room and wait for me there. You will show your faces only when the time comes to hand over the trophy. You will not even look at the media. You will not express any emotions. You will not talk. Had I the power you would not even breathe. Bryan, you will be the one to give the trophy to whichever brat they choose to accept it. You will keep your gaze barren and distant. If you disobey in the smallest manner than I can guarantee you that I will take action."
To back his words up he pulled back his coat to reveal a shining revolver. Removing it he traced the end of the barrel down the side of Tala's face before placing it to the boy's temple.
"Am I understood?" he raised a brow.
"Yes, sir," all three answered quickly.
"Good. Escort our former *champions* to locker room 16."
As they were being lead away Ian and Bryan both turned their heads to cast a worried look at Tala, who Boris still had his hand on.
The blue eyes answered their silent concerns, "I'll be alright. Make sure to help Spencer."
The scientist had been able to restore some form of sight but the blond could still only see a very blurred world.
The doors closed with a sharp click and they were gone. He didn't have much time to pray for their safety when the hand that had been on his back now took hold of his hip and turned him to face the man he hated more than anything else.
"As for you, you still have an important part to play."
Something was pressed into his hand. He felt the familiar cool of metal surface. Wolborg.
"You know your task. Use that mutt if you want to, but get me my grandson." Voltaire stepped up, face colder than the air around them. "I have a plane to catch at 11 and Kai is coming with me."
Waving his hand in dismissal he turned but a soft voice stopped him.
"No."
"What did you say?" He turned narrowed eyes on the red-head.
"I won't let you hurt him again."
"Boris, I believe that this bitch needs to be broken some more."
The cane was raised, the adorned snake grip glistening, ready to strike. Tala closed his eyes as he awaited the blow but when nothing happened he dared to peak. Boris held the cane just inches from where it had almost smashed into his face.
"What is the meaning of this, Boris? I have never known you to start feeling for your whores," Voltaire growled as he pulled his cane free from the other man's hand.
"Believe me, I don't. Nothing would please me more right now than to pummel him right here in the parking lot. But it took us all day to make him presentable and we cannot run the risk of having his wounds reopen. You do want to get Kai and then get the hell away from here, don't you."
Voltaire growled an agreement but his eyes remained murderous. Taking hold of the teen's shirt he got in his face, hot breath causing the fine bangs to sway with each word.
"You *will* do well to follow my instructions, Tala. What applies for your team mates also apply for you. Any rebellion from you and I will guarantee you that the media will have a wonderful time covering the story of three bodies found shot and mutilated right here in the parking lot. Do I make myself clear?"
When the boy faltered he gave him a vicious shake.
"Answer me!"
"...yes..." Tala stared wide-eyed at the older man, shaken to the core. Again a hand gripped his hip and twisted him around to face Boris whose eyes were warning him on the pain of death.
"Don't you dare screw this up, Tala. Deliver Kai to us and I will reconsider selling you to the American. In fact..." A wonderfully evil idea came to mind. "I will make you a deal. Get Kai back and I will release you from the Abbey."
"No. I won't let you touch him again."
"Hm, very honourable notion but I know you the type to sacrifice yourself for others. Will you be just as stubborn if I wager the others' freedom as well? Once Kai has been returned I will allow you *and* Ian, Bryan and Spencer to leave the Abbey. Would you turn down your friends chances of freedom for the sake of Kai's?"
He could have hit no lower than that. How could he choose?
Kai was his best friend but did that overthrow the three other friendships he treasured in close second? If he turned it down they would return to the abbey to undergo the beatings and starvation. He had overheard the scientists saying that unless Bryan's leg was properly operated on they would have to amputate it soon. Not that they couldn't, all the scientists at the abbey were of high schooling, but Boris forbade them to, enjoying the lilac-haired Russian's handicap.
'If I turn this down then they will all die. But I can't betray Kai...'
Tears of confusion stung his eyes and he lowered his head in misery.
What was he going to do?
**************
"This is so neat. Check it out! My name is printed on the chair!"
"Yes, Tyson, it's been there for the past hour," Kenny sighed, adjusting his bow tie.
"Oh, hey! What's that?"
Grabbing the small boy by the wrist he dragged him off in the direction of whatever it was he had seen. Not about to be left out of a potential laugh Max hurried behind them and the three were soon swallowed up by the crowd.
"I can't believe what they've done to this place. It looks like a palace!" Mariah commented from where she sat in her sparkling pink dress next to Ray and the rest of the White Tigers.
"Duh! It *is* a palace. They only turned it into a stadium at the turn of the century. It used to be the home of the Czar and his family who--"
"Spare us the fun facts, Emily," Michael cut in with a stressed yawn. He lounged on his chair, feet on the table. They had repeatedly told him to sit properly but he ignored them for the most part. "This is a party. Quit your trivia and get me something to drink."
"Ooh! You...you....ugh!" Cutting eye with him she returned to her laptop which she had seated on her lap.
Like Mariah's earlier observation the arena had gotten a complete make- over. How it was possible that they had been able to move in several hundreds of seats and tables, plus sound stage, lighting, press conference table and buffet not to mention paint and decorate the enormous area within a course of just 4 days was a mystery, But the music was good and the food was great so no one really dwelled on that for long.
The guests were made up out of three main groups: the bladers who included the champions as well as those who had participated in the exhibition matches. And of course close family and friends were there too. The second group, and the largest, were the BBA personnel and the Russian beyblading organizers. Top ranking managers, owners, financiers, and other very important people walked about in their expensive gowns and tux's. And last but not least was a selective media group. Not the raging crowd from outside, thankfully; these were of a more...dignified...class who were actually polite.
Still, they unnerved him every time they came up to ask for a picture or an interview. Was it just him or did they seem to be focusing mainly on him as if they knew that he was hiding something?
'Cut it out! You're getting paranoid!' He forced himself to calm down though he seriously would have preferred to get in the limo and go home.
He had taken Mr Dickenson's advice and stayed with the group though not too close or they would get suspicious. Leaning against the wall within sight of where the majority of his friends and fellow bladers sat talking and laughing he was mainly drifting in and out of focus. Tyson's rather loud return pulled him to reality for good.
"Hey, guys, do you know that they have ginormous ice sculptures of our bit beasts back there?! It is the coolest!!" Plopping down he stretched back and folded his hands behind his head. "You know, I am really gonna like this whole champion thing."
"Just don't let your head become even more detached from the rest of your body...though you could stand to lose a few pounds," Enrique cracked and everyone exploded with laugher which garnered them some curious glances from the adults around them.
"Very funny, Enrique-poo. Laugh all you want but we will see who will laugh last when that trophy is in our hands! Which pose do you think I should use?"
He started striking possible candidates for his trophy acceptance pictures. The others laughed, cheering or booing out their opinions.
Their camaraderie was interrupted by a waiter dressed in spotless black tuxedo with cuffs.
"Anything to drink for the guests of honour?"
Big mistake as he was bombarded with orders. It took him many minutes before he had everything written down.
"Two diet sprites for the lovely ladies. 5 cokes, 2 root beers, 3 ginger ales, and you, gentlemen?" He turned to the Majestics who each ordered some wine or champagne that was damn near impossible to repeat but very expensive. Then again, the others hadn't expected anything less from the four royals.
"Something to drink, Lord Hiwatari?" The man straightened his already disciplined posture even more as he addressed Kai who had slipped off into his own thoughts once more. Right now he needed something to clear his mind and spoke out the first thing that came to mind, forgetting the fact that the others could hear him.
"Bloody Martini. And make it three dashes of Worchestershire instead of two."
"The usual 1 1/2 oz. Vodka?"
"Just for this one shot."
"As you wish, lord Hiwatari."
With a small bow he turned and disappeared to where the bar stood surrounded by patrons who were enjoying the free alcoholic beverages.
Kai was about to drift out again when he noticed that the others were strangely silent. 16 pairs of wide eyes stared at him as 16 mouths almost touched the floor. If he hadn't been under so much pressure he would have laughed at their expressions but now he could only raise a brow in simple questioning.
"What's wrong?"
"Bloody Martini? Have you any idea how strong that stuff is?!" Kenny's voice squeaked.
"I need something to clear my mind."
"Don't you have to be 18 and older to order something so strong?" Lee asked, mentally patting himself on the back for being able to come out of his stupor long enough to speak.
Kai simply shrugged his shoulders and shut them out as he went back to his musings. Every now and then he would look out into the large crowd before him hoping to see a flash of red hair but it was all a sea of black tuxedos and glimmering evening gowns.
'Where is he keeping you? Is he still hurting you even now?'
There had not been no signs whatsoever of the Demolition Boys all night. The others simply waved it off saying that the Russian team was too ashamed to spend any time longer than needed. He wasn't about to enlighten them on the dark truth but the unspent concern was wreaking havoc inside him.
"Your drinks, ladies and gentlemen."
Their waiter had returned balancing 17 drinks on two big trays. Those who think that being a waiter is an easy job should try themselves to walk through a constantly moving mass while juggling liquids on flat surfaces. But this guy was a seasoned waiter.
Having dealt them all their drinks he carried the remaining drink to its owner who still leaned against the wall, arms crossed and eyes closed. The crimson pair opened slowly when he sensed another near. Wordlessly he picked up his equally red drink and nodded a 'thank you' to the waiter who bowed and slipped away again.
Taking the first sip he allowed the burning drink to roll about on his tongue for a few seconds before swallowing. The heat burned its way down till his stomachs. It could have used a bit more tobasco but right now he needed the simple momentary sting to keep himself in check.
"Are you drunk already?"
Blinking out of his trance he looked into Tyson's imploring eyes. He had never thought that the navy-haired boy could move without making a sound but sure enough he stood right before him, eyes training on him, then the vodka, and then him again.
"Get real." He took another sip, larger this time in hopes of maybe making this unwanted illusion disappear. No such luck as Tyson spoke again.
"Can I try it?"
"You're too young."
"Oh, puh-lease! You're only a year older and not even 18 yet."
"Your point?"
"Your little friend is right, Kai. Drinking has dire consequences for those who are under-age."
Fighting the urge to bolt, Kai looked past Tyson's shoulder up into Boris' stone-grey eyes. His grip on the glass trembled and he lowered it to his side to prevent the others from seeing the drink slosh over the side from his shaking hand. Schooling his rampaging fears he nodded a greeting but kept his eyes averted. In the mean time the others sat in silence, eyes narrowed in extreme distrust towards the man.
"I simply wanted to congratulate you and your immense success. I've seen many who have easily fallen to the power and all out cunning technique of my boys," Boris' eyes shifted pointedly to the White Tigers and All Starz.
"Yes, it is too great a shame that they short-circuited during the most crucial part of the tournament," Robert spoke up. He was the eldest of the whole group, having his 17th birthday behind his back, and had already have dealt with people like this one.
A cold smirk sent shivers down all their spines.
"You speak as if I treat my boys like mere war instruments. I'll have you know that I take good care of my pupils and they are normally begging for my teaching. Isn't that right, Kai?"
The look of complete lust went unseen by the others but he saw it flickering behind the supposedly emotionless eyes. The man seemed to tower over him taller than usual and he could feel the eyes undressing him right there on the spot. He could feel those rough hands on him.
"Is there something you wish to discuss with my team and their friends?" Mr Dickenson appeared from amongst the crowd. Behind him walked Mr Granger and Bruce. The latter's fists balled at the sight of cold-eyed Russian.
"It is good to see you too, Stanley," Boris said, purposefully addressing the head of the BBA informally, goading his reaction. In the meantime his eyes kept on roaming over Kai's body.
For his part Mr Dickenson ignored the disrespectful tone but he was well aware of the man's close proximity to Kai and it unnerved him. The young man couldn't even look his aggressor in the eyes and he could see the fine trembles that he was trying to hide from his fellow bladers.
"Like wise, I suppose, though you have not answered my question." As he spoke he casually placed himself between Boris and Kai. The director blinked out of the trance he had been in and finally made eye contact with the elderly man.
"I was just telling my young apprentice here how proud I am of him. He has learned well. Should he ever wish for any more lessons he is more than welcomed to visit us at the abbey again. We do miss your presence." He smirked, "Especially Tala."
The words were effective and Mr Dickenson heard a sharp intake of breath from behind him. He could see that Bruce was restraining himself though the dark-haired man was shooting daggers and bullets at Boris. The bladers watched the exchange with growing apprehension and bewilderment though something flickered in Ray's golden eyes if but for a second.
"I'm afraid that I am going to have to ask you not to trouble these youngsters again for the rest of the evening." He spoke in a dead serious voice that no one had ever heard him use before.
Boris held up his hand as if to hold off an attack.
"I wish not for any conflict. It would appear that I have overstayed my welcome so I shall take my leave. We will see each other soon."
He allowed his eyes the pleasure of studying the blue-haired boy's body before tearing them off and walking away.
"What was that all about?" Tyson asked, looking between the manager and Kai.
"Nothing, Tyson. Boris simply wishes to ruin your evening." Mr Dickenson kept his eyes on Boris till the man was out of sight and then turned to Kai who was collecting himself. For the boy to experience such fear from just seeing Boris his treatment at the director's hands must have been plainly barbaric.
"Are you alright, Kai?" he asked softly when the other teens went back to their earlier conversation. His eyes soften when the bluenette shook his head. "Is there anything I can do?"
"I need to be alone."
"I do not think it wise to let you go off by yourself. Boris is around and-- "
"Please, sir?" The crimson pairs begged the old man to understand. He needed to be away from all this celebrating and people. He needed some quiet time. In his mind he kept on replaying Boris smirking tone as he mentioned Tala's name. "I won't take long."
He sighed. He would never forgive himself if anything was to happen to the phoenix but he knew that Kai would feel much more comfortable if he wasn't amongst so many people.
"Alright," he removed a set of keys from his pockets, "these belong to the offices upstairs but I will not let you go without an escort."
He spotted Bruce nearby talking with his father.
"Bruce, a moment of your time, if you don't mind?"
When the younger man came over he explained the plan to him.
"Just make sure he reaches the offices safely. Give him 30 minutes and then go back for him. Does that sound okay to you, Kai?"
"Yes, Mr. Dickenson." His eyes darted about over the crowd, fearing to see Boris watching him. He took another mouthful of his glass.
"Then we will meet you behind the stage in 30 minutes for the trophy exchange," he said as he took the vodka from the boy's hands. "And I would advise you to lay off the alcohol if just for tonight. Light headed is something we can't afford you to get."
"Thank you, sir." Giving the room a final look he followed Bruce towards the elevators.
"Hey! Where are you going?" Tyson had caught sight of them leaving.
"Kai has something to attend to. He'll be back soon."
"Oh." That was all that was needed to put the dragon at ease.
However, while everyone went back to cheering on Tyson's outrageous poses, golden eyes remained on where their team captain had disappeared.
'What is going on with you, Kai?'
*************
*~*~*~begin flashback~*~*~*
He hissed in pain, causing the hands that had been gently wiping the angry welts on his back with a soft cloth to pull away immediately.
"Tala...?"
Mutely, he nodded for the other to continue, feeling the bed shift beneath them as Kai resumed his spot next to the hurting redhead, sitting on the edge of the mattress as he took care of a particular swollen mark on one shoulder.
"Almost done," he assured when the ten-year-old redhead flinched again.
"What does it matter? He's going to do it again anyways..."
Drying off his work, Kai watched his friend sadly before placing the things on the floor and lying down next to him. Tala turned his head to face him, remaining on his stomach. Sighing, he rested his forehead against Kai's, feeling the warm breath blowing softly on his face.
"Thanks, Kai. I don't know what I would do without you."
Brushing away the drying tears from Tala's face, Kai smiled softly.
"I don't know what *I* would do without *you*. You're my best friend, Tala. I will do anything for you."
"Me too. Nothing can ever make me break our friendship."
They fell asleep with their promises and each other.
*~*~*~end flashback~*~*~*
Ice blue eyes watched from the shadowed hallway as Kai followed the other man down the hall. They stopped at an office door and the man opened it. After exchanging some words the man walked away as Kai closed the door. A soft click was heard as it was locked.
He pulled out the blue and grey beyblade from his pocket, eyes studying the winged wolf in the middle which glowed with the want to help its master.
Tears trickled from his eyes and he clutched the blade to his chest. The usual cold surface now warmed him but it did him little good. With a resolved breath he opened his eyes.
"I am sorry, but I have no choice. Forgive me, Kai."
tbc......
**************
Read & Review, please.