I was so happy to get more reviews for the last chapter! I was meant to post Chapter Seven yesterday but I live with 4 arrogant brother's who hog the internet so it was impossible to even get on fanfiction -_-
Ariao: Aha! I knew people would think Tala would be the one to save her ;) muahah sadly he's not that nice yet! As for why Tala was being punished, you will find out in the beginning of this chapter :) thanks for reviewing and I'm glad your enjoying the story! Tell me what you think of Chapter Seven!
tangmo: Oh I love Bryan too! He does have more faith in Juliette than Tala does, we'll see what becomes of them ;) I haven't written the ending yet but I have a clear picture of what is going to happen, though as chapters pass I may consider changing based on what people think and would like to see if that makes sense? Hmm, I'm not 100 percent sure on how many chapters, I originally planned around 20 or so but I always get new idea's in between and make it into a chapter haha. I'll let you know when I get near writing the ending! It possible will be after the match with the Bladebreakers, I haven't decided yet. Anyway, thanks for reviewing! Enjoy Chapter Seven and be sure to tell me what you think!
mahjabinmaliha: Thanks for reviewing! Oh there WILL be romance, you can be sure of that ;) there is a butt load of Juliette and Tala in this Chapter and even more later! So keep reading and reviewing and I will post up the future chapters soon!
Guest: Thanks for reviewing! Enjoy chapter seven :D
leikoashimage: Thanks for reviewing! I did say it gets better, and I really excited when things will REALLY start getting hectic ;) Enjoy chapter seven! Oh and you must update your story soon! I have been waiting too long :( lol anyway, review at the end and tell me what you think!
Wow okay, Chapter Seven. I spent a LOT of time on this chapter especially editing it and adding extra scenes because I love you all and decided to spoil you a little! Nearly 8 thousand words! There is a lot of drama in this chapter and lots of Tala and Juliette and of course, Bryan! I'll let you read now and please review at the end and tell me what you thought! I'll post up Chapter Eight faster ;)
(Disclaimer: I do not own Beyblade or any of it's characters, I only own my OC's!)
Chapter Seven
*Normal P.O.V*
When Tala woke up, he noticed he wasn't in the dungeons. Instead he was on a soft, warm bed. What happened? How the hell did he get here? Then he recalled last night. He had been sent to the dungeons on Boris' orders after his training session in the simulation unit. When Wolborg's speed failed, he was blamed for not being able to control his bit-beast hence getting sent to the pit. That and it was regular to keep up the tortures so emotions were blocked off. He knew what was coming and he wasn't looking forward to it. He was chained and it was worse when the whip cracked at his prior wound but he didn't succumb to the pain. He would never show it. Ever. He had been losing consciousness when the pain suddenly stopped. And it was all because of that pink haired doctor. Juliette Sakurai.
When he saw her stand in front of him, arms out and protective he wanted to strangle her. How dare she interrupt? Was she trying to be some sort of saviour? Those were his first thoughts. When she threw those guards off balance about him being near death, it even surprised him. No doubt he remembered a similar incident with one of the past trainee's. He had approved of Rocky himself and finding out the reason behind his death resulted in him feeling rather disgusted but as usual there was nothing he could do. At least he was considered an important aspect to Boris. And truthfully, he was a little thankful for the beatings to have stopped. He had been too sore to speak or move on his own and for that he hated himself. He allowed her to touch him, clean him and patch him up. But something else, she had been so gentle and tender, even going to the extent of using her own clothes and destroying them to make him feel more comfortable. It shocked him. He feared such compassion.
He also remembered how searing her skin was when she helped him to his dorm. It was like touching lava he guessed. She must have had a temperature. Typical, she wouldn't be used to Russian weather yet. He groaned sitting up in bed when he noticed the torn strip of material by his pillow. Was this Juliette's? It must have been. Just as he was about to pick it up he saw another object. The clock was ticking 6pm.
"Shit."
He practically missed an entire day of training. Boris would sure send him back to the dungeon again. Their championships were coming up and losing a whole day to practice was definitely not something he wanted to lose out on. Before he could step out of bed, his bedroom door swung open and Bryan walked in. Tala narrowed his eyes.
"Why didn't you wake me up?" he half growled.
Bryan smirked, shrugging. "Doctor's orders."
Tala growled louder. "Kuso! I missed a whole day of training and will probably get thrown back into the hell hole."
"No you won't. Juliette notified the guards and Boris, granting you a day off to sleep in and rest. Boris approved."
Tala froze, turning his head back to Bryan who stared right back at him.
"Yeah you heard right. So do you still doubt her?" Bryan questioned.
Tala felt fury. "I'll never trust her. She can do hell all she likes."
Bryan looked disappointed before nodding towards the bedside stand where a glass of water and some tablets were set down. Tala arched an eyebrow.
"Do YOU trust her?"
Bryan was silent, turning his gaze away before curling the end of his lip upwards.
"I don't know yet."
Tala grunted, avoiding the medicine on the stand.
"Doctors orders. Boris' orders."
Not happy at all, he closed his eyes. The bedroom door closed and left him alone in silence. If Boris hadn't agreed to the medicine he would have skipped it and he was in no mood to be thrown back into the pit again. Without hesitation he picked up the pills and swallowed them down with water. He noticed his Wolborg was put safely on the table top, sitting proud as the bit chip gleamed.
'Wolborg...'
Tala removed the duvet from around him, wincing and cursing as remnants of last night's beatings sunk in. With some difficulty, he got up to get dressed, collecting Wolborg in the process. No matter, even if the day was nearly over he would get in some practice. After slipping on his usual abbey uniform he left his dorm and headed out into the dark, freezing and god ridden hallways. His usual place where he practised at night didn't seem like an ideal choice now since he most likely would be disturbed. No, the training facilities would have to do. Perhaps he would be able to battle the inferiors and gain some pride back after the events from yesterday night. He still couldn't shake the feeling of disgust. How did he let himself be taken care of by that girl? The one he despised and held all hatred for? Whatever anyone else thought of her, he cared no less. As long as she kept her distance from him, he was fine.
The training room he reached already was becoming busy with the usual groups at each other's necks and battling with no emotions. He smirked inwardly, just like how he was brought up. Those who fought with emotions were losers and had no chance of winning. Like those bladebreakers. The team name itself made him snarl.
'Pathetic' he thought.
Spencer and Ian seemed to have the same idea since they were already battling some of the trainee's. Obviously, they weren't even breaking a sweat. All these minuscule boys were flies in their web. As he reached the nearest dish he became spectator of the battle till one of the two stood defeated. The boy was dragged to the dungeons by the guards and Tala took his place upon the dish. His opponent seemed a little taken aback by his presence and for sure he knew he had no chance. The boy seemed deep in thought, eyeing his blade. Tala narrowed his eyes before setting up his launcher which resembled that of a pistol. The battle commenced and both blades entered the dish simultaneously.
"Attack!" the boy called out at his blade.
Tala smirked as he watched the approaching blade dive straight for his own. Without a word, he watched as the attacking blade clashed against Wolborg, only to be sent rebounding back and flying out the dish in 2 pieces. The dreading eyes of the boy fearfully shook with horror as his now shattered blade fell at his feet. Tala kept his icy glare.
'No opponent is worthy to battle you' he thought inwardly as he recalled Wolborg and looked down at him.
"No! Stop! Someone help!"
Tala could just hear the cries of the boy as he was dragged away by the guards.
'Sorry kid. You lose.'
"Matte."
His head jerked up and turned around at the sound of a soft and monotone voice speaking up. There he watched as the female doctor stood facing the 3 figures with the trembling boy in the middle. She seemed to not notice his presence and continued speaking.
"Miss Juliette, we have our orders and you cannot stop us" one of the guards spoke up coldly.
Tala watched calmly as Juliette merely blinked at the guards. What could she say that would stop them? The boy clearly wasn't in any dramatic medical condition so she couldn't use any such excuse. She was stopping the process of the trainee's becoming better bladers. Tala could tell his blood was beginning to boil and felt the need to step in before she could say any more.
"Guards, obey your orders and take this boy away" he commanded, closing his eyes.
"Yes Sir."
"Just a minute, you cannot take that boy with you."
Tala opened his eyes and glared directly into the emerald orbs of the female who challenged him.
"Your duties are clearly stated out Sakurai-san and obstructing another's duty is not one of them. The boy has no concerning issues regarding health as of now so you cannot interfere even though you may be Tamaki Sakurai's daughter" he stated with as much venom in his voice as possible, sneering her name with the honorific.
Her eyes seemed to falter for a second before she kept her blank doll face silent. The expression made Tala growl inwardly, had she not been an important asset to Boris then he surely would have caused some pain for the girl. He noticed the redness of her nose and cheeks and the feeble stance of her body as she held her briefcase by her side. So her temperature seems to have remained. He remembered her skin being on fire last night. Even so...
"Very well, Ivanov-sama. I am not one to question your authority" she softly replied, half closing her eyelids.
He almost flinched at how she used honorific's with his name. He grunted and walked past her without hesitation. He won that battle hadn't he? So why did he feel so edgy? Tala was oblivious to the green eyes following him.
*Juliette P.O.V*
It had been painful to watch as the guards dragged away the young boy who seemed no more than 14. It cut me deeply at how harsh and cold Tala really was. To see him speak up and refuse for the boy to be freed had been a nightmare to watch without saying anything. I could see the pleading look within the eyes of the young boy held tightly at the guards grasp and he knew I could be the only one to give some assistance. Even that, I had failed in helping him. Tala had been right; I had no such authority over the boys unless they were in a serious condition at present time. There was nothing I could do to stop them, and now? That poor soul was probably getting tortured to his near death after his loss from Tala.
I really had believed Tala would seem a little different after last night's scenes. Obviously not.
'Don't worry Juliette, you cannot change everyone here. This place is redeemed to make all people heartless and hold such vices. Gomen, you cannot do anything to stop it.'
Hearing Artemis' words made me feel a wave of emotion through my heart. I forlornly looked down at the ground.
'As long as I'm here Artemis, I will do all I can to change this abbey's methods' I vowed.
'Please Juliette, you will get hurt. You already have a fever and a cold. It will only get worse'Artemis warned, begging for the girl to stop her tries to change the abbey.
I shook my head. 'Gomenasai Artemis. I cannot think about myself when all these innocent boys are in peril.'
Getting up, I made my way down the dreaded dungeons where I would carry on my work. After my 4th patient, I began packing up and headed for the next cell. At the first step into the cell I froze, almost dropping my briefcase.
Not again...
"Well, well. Am I not very fortunate to have you to treat me once again" a snide voice murmured in the darkness with only a tiny flame, lighting up the cell.
Demetri sat spread out with his arms by his sides holding up his weight while his legs were casually laid out across the floor. Blood dripped from his lip with multiple bruises all over his face and neck. His hands had deep lashes and his trousers were slightly torn from the constant beatings he must have received. I swallowed. In no state of mind did I want to treat this guy, but what choice did I have? I swallowed the lump in my throat and edged closer, keeping some safe distance between us. He was smirking the whole way, keeping his dark eyes on me at all times. I bent down and rested on my knees as I pulled out the necessary materials to treats him. First I wiped away the blood from his legs and arms, wrapping fresh bandages around the cuts. The deep one on his left arm needed stitches so I got out the right materials. He didn't seem to flinch or make any move to touch me which I was thankful for. He didn't flinch as I sewed up his arm and fearfully moved to his face.
"Why are you so silent hm? Do I make you nervous?" He breathed in my direction.
I stayed silent but shook my head, drenching the cotton wool with antiseptic. As I neared his face with my hand, it trembled and I was sure he could tell because his smirk widened. The cotton wool touched his chin as I wiped away the blood, careful not to come into contact with his skin with my fingers. Demetri seemed to have other plans because he suddenly grabbed my hand strongly. I let out a small gasp.
"It hurts...here" he whispered with a devious smirk as he pulled my hand down towards his open neck. He didn't remove his hand from mine as I dabbed at his neck where bruises were formed. I felt myself swallow as he moved my hand up again to his other cheek, closing his eyes as I dabbed. I tried pulling my hand away but he held on with a tight grip.
"Is...Is that all?" I stammered, keeping my glance away.
He inched my hand closer so now I felt his cold skin touch the edge of my hand. I winced, pulling my hand but failed.
"Hanashiteyo" I whispered, tugging my hand that he gripped even tighter.
He pulled me forwards so my body neared his own. His leg brushed the skin of my own legs making me shudder.
"Yada. Your job is still incomplete" he exhaled at my face. I flinched away, whimpering slightly.
"Dame, you cannot touch me like this!" I cried out, pulling back.
He growled, yanking me forwards again so I fell against his shoulder harshly. "Oh really? There are no such rules that say I cannot. You are treating me. I have the right to guide you where it pains" he snarled as his grip tightened making me feel pain and numbness.
"Hanashiteyo! Why are you doing this?" I attempted once more.
He chuckled darkly making me grimace, fearing the worst.
"It seems that whatever punishment you had received wasn't enough, Demetri" a voice echoed from behind.
I glanced back over my shoulder as my eyes searched and found 2 moonstones standing at the doorway of the cell. Never had I felt such relief in seeing the gray haired male. I took the chance to yank my hand away but failed as Demetri kept it close to his face with a smirk.
"Bryan. What brings you here?"
Bryan blankly looked down at us, eyes focused on our hands. I shifted my eyes from side to side and kept trying to pull my hand away.
"Let her go."
Demetri's eyes turned cold. "No. She's doing her job."
Bryan's eyes suddenly revealed a little hesitation, like he was holding back a fit of rage. "Really. Give me the benefit of intelligence Demetri. I am not so dense. Release her hand or I shall have to make some unpleasant arrangements" his voice sounded far from threatening than it should have been.
It seemed to make Demetri edge up because he released my hand at once. I quickly stuffed the materials away and dashed towards Bryan. He gave me a meaningful glance before narrowing his silvery eyes towards the villain behind me.
"You know Kuznetsov, I never thought I'd see the day you showed some...emotion" Demetri's sneering voice echoed from behind.
I glanced up to look at Bryan then. Was he showing compassion? His face was blank and cold but I sense a change in it, a crack in that thick wall. I blinked and noticed he closed his eyes, cowering his moonstones away from my gaze. I thought he would have some snappy comeback for Demetri but instead he grabbed my arm gently and led me out the cell, I watched as 2 guards walked past us silently and into the cell. Just as we was walking up the stairs. The screaming began...
"Ano...Bryan?"
My voice seemed weak as I clutched my briefcase to my chest as we walked side by side through the halls. He let go of my arm by now and didn't seem to change his expression.
"Hm?" he mumbled without opening his eyes, his hands in his pockets.
"Arigatou..." I quietly thanked, looking down at my feet sadly.
He must have noticed my tone and paused in his steps. I noticed and stopped too, looking to the side down into darkness.
"You don't sound very thankful" he noted.
I immediately snapped my head to him in a jolt.
"Iyaa! That is not how I wished to sound, gomen. It is just...you seem to be saving me a lot recently..." I looked down at my feet once more.
"And that's a bad thing?" he questioned, raising an eyebrow.
I shook my head. "It's my job to look after everyone here. Not the other way around." I heard him sigh so I looked up. A small grin on his face appeared making me wonder what he was thinking. He lifted a hand to the top of my head and ruffled my hair softly.
"Not quite kiddo. Ja ne" he walked away without another word. I watched aimlessly as he disappeared. The guy still confused me.
The day was nearly over and I was sat in the infirmary. I was interrupted when a knock came on the door. It was turning 10pm, who would be here now? I looked up to see a familiar pair of amber eyes and ravishing indigo. I stood up with a small smile.
"Keiji, Juan, are you okay?" I asked as they walked inside.
Juan immediately ran over and wrapped his arms around my waist tightly, nuzzling in my abdomen. I stroked the tip of his hairs gently. He seemed a little tense but happy at the same time. I glanced up to see Keiji leaning against the bed frame, hands in pockets and his eyes closed. Juan seemed to avoid speaking and nodded in my abdomen. I realised he wouldn't speak with Keiji around here so I moved onto the purple haired male.
"Is everything ok?" I asked, looking up.
"Well, I don't know his reasons for being here, I bumped into him at the doorway" Keiji replied without changing his position.
I blinked. "So what brings you here Keiji?"
His eyes opened a crack revealing his long black eyelashes that beautified his face. The corner of his lip curved into a small smirk. "The usual. You got any sleeping pills? I could use them tonight."
I frowned. As much as I wanted to help Keiji I wanted him to tackle his insomnia himself. Having too many pills wasn't a bright idea. He noticed my expression and lost his smirk.
"Look, I really don't want to stay awake all night tonight so it would be great if you could give me something to knock me out" he urged. I sighed in defeat.
"All right, though it's best if you try breaking out of it yourself else your body will become immune to sleeping pills."
I walked over to the cabinet, pulling out of Juan's grip to take out a brown glass pot of pills and dropped 2 into my hand before closing the cabinet and walking over to Keiji.
"Here. This should be ok for tonight. Is there anything else?"
His eyes flickered up, looking at me meaningfully as if he was eager to speak to me until his gaze shifted down to Juan and he lost all confidence.
"íie, arigatou. Ja ne."
He left the room immediately leaving me staring at the empty doorway in a daydream. A tugging woke me up and I saw Juan staring at me. I smiled and brushed a hand across his cheek. "How are you? Eaten dinner?" He nodded happily.
"I'm fine, how are you Juliette? You don't look so great" his eyes shook with worry, wiping the smile off his face.
"Nani mo, don't look so worried! Get some sleep all right?" I urged him giving a forced smile so I didn't worry him. He blinked for a few seconds before nodding. "If you are sure Sakurai-san" he weakly smiled.
I frowned. "No honorific's Juan-kun" I teased.
He lightly chuckled before wishing me goodnight and left for bed. I sighed, raising a hand to my forehead. "Masaka..."
The fever wasn't helping me to sleep so I decided to walk around. I ended up finding myself back in the room of pillars where Tala usually practised in the night. It seemed he wasn't here tonight which was good. At least he was sleeping. On the cold benches I sat myself down and leaned back against the old bricks behind. I reached into my short pockets and pulled out the pale green beyblade and took a deep breath.
"Artemis?" I called out quietly.
I felt the blade warmth and positive energy in my hands as I connected with the spirit.
'You are very unwell Juliette, why are you awake?'
"I could not sleep. It would do me good to walk around a little..."
'In this current state, it isn't my dear.'
I sighed, leaning my head back, looking up at the darkness with only a flame flickering on the far end. Thank goodness the room was badly lit; there were most likely security camera's everywhere. "I wish...there was something I could do to change this abbey's way of teaching. It's awful Artemis, I don't know how much longer I can stand it" I felt my voice break off at the last word.
'Please do not give up now. You are doing such a fine job of changing the people here. Do not make it all go down in vain.'
It was true. If I backed out now...everything I had worked for will go to waste. I couldn't do that to them. To any of them. The sound of footsteps startled me and made me gasp, clutching my blade protectively.
"What are you doing here?"
The familiar cold voice suddenly had me in fear. Had he heard me talking to Artemis? Tala had not yet trusted me and if he knew about Artemis...he would be sure to inform Boris. The very thought had me wince. I can't let that happen. I slid Artemis away from view, standing up.
"Nani mo. Gomen, I'll leave right now" I softly replied, turning to leave.
"Wait."
I froze. The sound of footsteps coming closer frightened me and I expected the worst.
"You have a beyblade."
Oh god. He knew. I swallowed the lump in my throat. Masaka...he saw it. He had seen me talking after all! I struggled to speak and slowly turned around, avoiding looking directly into his eyes.
"A-Ano...I...un...um" I stammered out.
He coldly glared at me intensely. His left eyebrow raised a little and I knew he didn't believe me. I felt like I couldn't lie to him... But I couldn't tell him the truth either.
"Hai. I d-do have a beyblade..." I quietly admitted, looking down.
"Does Boris know?"
Immediately in horror I looked up with a small gasp, clutching Artemis tightly behind me.
"I-Iya. It is just a gift from my okaa-san" I shifted my eyes to the side. It wasn't a lie but it wasn't the complete truth either. He seemed content with it and only grunted. He looked away then, while I awkwardly looked at my feet. On its own accord, my mouth began to project words.
"Why do you hate me so, Tala?"
He almost instantly looked back and I could notice the change in his eyes. They were colder than I had ever seen; I feared what would be his reaction. He kept silent for a moment, keeping suspense at a high level before I looked away, unable to hold the staring.
"Do not exceed your boundaries little doctor, there is a limit to how much I can keep up my patience."
I looked up then, tilting my head slightly to the side. That was that then, end of topic. I was really asking for it today.
"Why do you not vent your anger on me? Na ze?"
His eyes darkened. "You already know the answer to that. If not, then you're even denser than I thought."
"Hontouni? I'm trying to understand you Tala, but it seems that every time I try, you always do something or the other that speaks otherwise" I murmured giving a meaningful glance at his icy hues.
A small smirk appeared on the corner of his mouth, he almost scoffed. "Don't waste your time."
My eyes softened and all of a sudden a wave of heat washed over my head. No. My vision blurred slightly and my hands reached out, searching the dark walls for support. As I leaned against the structure, my breathing intensified, my skin ignited and I was finding it difficult to stand up. I tucked Artemis into my pocket and glanced up to see Tala looking at me with an expression that was unreadable.
Suddenly, he turned towards me, a change in expression. "You-" he paused, hesitating.
"You're stupid, quit thinking about drugging the rest of us and fix yourself. Your services are useless if you aren't even fit to do your job."
That was a little surprise. As harsh as he tried to make it sound, I knew it was meant to sound a little concerning. So I hoped. I gave a weak smile which made him raise an eyebrow. I pushed myself up straight.
"How can I think about myself, when there are others suffering a worse fate than a mild fever?"
On that note, I turned around, leaving the red haired blader in darkness. I hadn't meant to leave things like that, if things had gone the way I wanted I would have found it great to speak to him some more and perhaps clear my name off his hate list. I pushed this thought aside as I stumbled, making my way towards my dorm. It wasn't until the next corner that I bumped into a stocky figure. I looked up to see the flame light up a pale face with a mass of blonde hair. Then I turned my head and almost collapsed. Ruby red eyes had held me captive as Boris came into view. I swallowed. Now what was I meant to say?
"Miss Juliette, what are you doing up at this hour, that and out here instead of your room?" his conniving voice questioned.
I struggled to speak. My mouth opened but no words found a way out. Chikusho... My fever spoke for me. I felt another wave and I felt myself stumble forwards, clutching onto the nearest thing for support. Spencer's shirt.
"Oh my, it seems you have a fever. I believe Russian weather seems to be taking its toll on you young Juliette. No matter. Spencer?" he turned to the stocky blonde.
"Escort Juliette to her room safely and make sure she takes something before going to sleep" he ordered.
"Yes sir."
I felt myself being half carried across the dark tunnels of the abbey basement as we walked along in silence. Eventually my sight regained and I saw we almost neared my room. I stopped us both from advancing any further. Spencer spared me a glance.
"Why are you stopping?" his deep voice asked, eyeing me.
I continued staring down the hall ahead. "May I ask something Spencer?"
He didn't reply, I assumed he agreed.
"I...Do you trust me?" I turned my head gradually to look at him.
His eyes seemed to analyze me before he closed his eyes.
"I don't know."
Disappointed, I looked down.
"But... Thanks I suppose, for patching me up that day."
Shocked, I snapped my head back at him to see him looking away. I guess it must have taken a lot of courage to say something like that. All in all, it made me feel a spark of happiness, resulting in me smiling. "Thank you, Spencer. For both your words and help, I will be fine, you should also go to bed" I assured, moving forward towards my room. I glanced over my shoulder to see him looking a little shaken, he gave one last nod and turned around and left.
In bed, I curled up and reached for Artemis once more.
'I feel things will get better Artemis.'
'That, my dear Juliette, I believe to be true.'
The sound of loud vibrations against wood and a small tingle noise disrupted my sleep. I opened my eyes, only to be blinded as my fever kicked in. Oh god, I forgot to take anything last night thinking I would be fine. Obviously not. I regretted it instantly. Pushing myself up with all my remaining strength, I fought against the fuzzy image of the room and reached for my phone and spent a few seconds reading the caller I.D.
"Otou-san?" I winced.
Picking up, I exhaled quietly..
"Ohayo otou-san."
"Ohayo. I have a job for you" he announced.
I was wide awake now, ignoring the pounding in my head and the strikes of heat burning my insides.
"Demo otou-san, I already have a job. I cannot leave the ab-"
"If you had let me finish Juliette, you would see it was a job that had to be done whilst you are there. Do not speak over me again!"
I slid down in my seat. "Hai. Gomenasai otou-san..."
I heard the sound of a frustrated grunt on the other end.
"An important package has been delivered and is possibly outside the abbey waiting. You must go immediately and pick it up making sure you sign the notice. It is to be given to Boris in complete stealth. Do you understand?" his earthly voice darkly asked.
I glanced out the tiny window in my room to see a fierce snow storm brewing outside. In my current condition, I wouldn't last outside without collapsing at least a couple of times. I swallowed. Objecting otou-san's orders will have me in trouble, I couldn't refuse his orders. I sighed quietly.
"Otou-san...there is something I need to tell you" I began, already shaking as I held the phone to my ear. I could almost sense the ugly black aura's leaving otou-san and being sent through the phone. A chilling shiver ran up my spine.
"I...I am unwell, there is a very unpleasant snowstorm outside and I-"
"Are you...denying my request Juliette?"
I swallowed. It was that tone. That deep, threatening tone that I knew I couldn't argue against.
"Iya. I shall go right away. Sayonara."
The line closed and I felt a huge need to cry out in pain. The throbbing in my head wasn't helping me to stand up. I pulled on a sweater and a jacket. I didn't bother changing out of my shorts and pulled on socks and my boots before half rushing out while I still had the energy and before I felt like collapsing. Just as I passed the guards, informing them I had something to pick up I stepped out into the harsh winters of Moscow. In a second I felt shards of ice pierce my flesh. It was excruciating being out here in these arctic weathers. I remembered otou-san's tone and pressed on, ignoring the fever. The snow was at least 3 inches high and it was near to impossible for me to continue walking. Hugging my arms tight across my chest, I kept my eyes half closed and trudged through the soft white snow that had now numbed my skin through my socks. How much I wanted to be in my bed and wrapped up warm.
I saw it then, a small red van parked up with an envelope crest on its side- the delivery van. Eventually I tripped, gasping out in pain. As soft as snow was, its ability to numb your skin was worse. I pulled myself up, brushing off the snow and walked up to the van. The driver had been sat inside reading a book until I tapped on the glass. He immediately jerked around with a jolt before picking up a rectangle parcel on the passenger seat before reeling down his window to pass it through. I see he didn't like the cold weather either.
"Arigato" I thanked, taking the box into my hands.
He only nodded and closed his window fast. And then the van was gone. I swallowed as I turned around and was horrified by the view. It was impossible to see the abbey from this distance. The clouds filled with its elements to send a blizzard clouded the area with white sheets of snow. Finding my way back would be much harder and I swallowed the lump that formed in my throat.
*Normal P.O.V*
Training session was in 3 minutes. Spencer and Ian were probably already there. Boris set out a new simulation training programme for the 3 of them minus Tala. Apparently he didn't need it. Not this specific one anyway. Bryan made his way through the tunnels, ignoring the feint cries of exhaustion as he passed the morning drill exercise. Just as he neared his destination, he was stopped by a tall broad figure. He recognised them immediately after catching a glimpse of the trademark mask.
"Ah, Bryan. I have a small task for you. Deliver this to Juliette right away" he passed a small white envelope into Bryan's hands.
Bryan glanced down at the letter before nodding and turning to leave.
"Oh and Bryan?"
He paused.
"Do not be late for your training simulation" he added.
Bryan knew there wasn't going to be an easy way to do this task. It was almost unfeasible. He had less than 3 minutes to get to the infirmary which happened to be tunnels away from the simulation room. That and Juliette was most likely already on duty and wouldn't be in the infirmary. Someone was going to be punished today and staying up late practising.
As he walked along the corridors with a fast paced speed, his mind wandered to the pink haired doctor. For sure, he felt a small need to protect her. She was so vulnerable. When seeing Demetri hold her at a stance, where he knew too well what was on Demetri's mind, he felt this strange feeling of ire inside him. Had he not been passing the dungeons, he wouldn't have heard the murmurs of their conversation and the gasp that escaped the young doctor. She almost had him, but there was a part of him that still screamed for him to forget her and focus on becoming the ultimate opponent for their upcoming matches. He was distracted when he saw his team captain leaving the Level 3 training room. Tala paused, sparing a glance at the gray haired figure. Bryan quickly came up with the solution. He walked up to Tala, bearing the envelope and held it out. Tala swiftly took a look before looking up with an eyebrow slightly raised more than usual.
"What is it?"
"A letter, for Juliette."
He could see the captain's lips become thin and his expression darkened.
"Boris instructed this to be delivered to her right away, only...I have a simulation training session in a minute that I can't be late for," Bryan narrowed his eyes.
Understanding the situation, Tala closed his eyes.
"And you want me to take it to her?"
Silence. Tala only half growled.
"I'm not her personal slave" he hissed.
Bryan darkened his own glare. "Yet she is the one slaving after us."
That made Tala stuck for words. In theory, Bryan was right. Juliette was constantly looking after everyone here but it didn't make him feel any better about having to do the job. He gave in; knowing Bryan was a loyal team member and being the reason to why he gets punished wouldn't feel too great. Reluctantly, he took the letter from Bryan's grasp and turned around, walking towards the infirmary.
The door was closed and it seemed empty inside. 'Kuso, she probably has already gone to the dungeons or something' he cursed.
He left, heading towards the dorm rooms where she was staying at. He had no idea what room was hers but he was just going to take a pick. If she was in there already then it would save time. Just as he reached the hallway, he heard the sound of a tingly melody, quiet and faint but enough to echo out to his ears. Drawn to the sound, he traced it back to the wooden door with the number 16 drawn on the wood. Inside he noticed the slight mess of the bed covers, the open cupboard that held papers and the briefcase beside her bed. This was definitely her room. But why was her briefcase still here? He scanned the vicinity, taking in the appearance and how different it was compared to their team's own. The tingle noise returned and he approached the source, a cell phone. The small screen flashed letters that he didn't bother to read. On instinct, he picked up the cell and answered it.
"You are trying my patience Juliette. I have been calling continuously and you fail to pick up. Don't you dare ignore your father! Now, have you picked up that package yet? I do not care if there is a hurricane outside, you are to pick up that package, understood?" the rough venomous voice snarled through the other end.
Tala moved the phone away from his ear, pausing to think. This must her father. What package was he talking about? He glanced out the small window of her room and his eyes widened to see the outside word being coated in a blistering blizzard. Was Juliette out there? She couldn't go out there, not in the state he caught her in last night. No one would be that stupid. Recalling Tamaki's words, he suspected she had. No one could refuse an order like that and he seemed really angry, like his own father used to be...
Shutting off the phone without a reply, he left the letter on the table and headed out. Why the hell was he doing this? He didn't know. Probably because if she was out there and he knew, the outcome would most likely be that he was the reason behind her state and he was not having that rest on his shoulders.
The cold winds brushed at his skin, pricking it with ice shards. He narrowed his eyes; feeling used to such climates and searched the area from the front doors of the abbey entrance. He could hardly see far, seeing as the blizzard made it impossible to see out.
'Kuso...'
He walked forwards, stepping into the deep snow. The harsh winds pushed him back as he fought his way forward towards the road up ahead. If there was any place to pick up packages it would be there. Minutes passed and it seemed like he was getting nowhere. After what seemed like eternity he reached the road with tire tracks in the snow.
"This is impossible" he huffed, turning around on the spot. He could no longer see the abbey from here but having known this area he could find his way without seeing.
As the winds and snow continued to blind him, he kept going forward. He cursed mentally in ever having thought she was out here. He got himself to go through this insane weather. He was stupid. His leg then came across a bump in the snow. He paused; looking down as his 2 strands of red hair furiously blew in the wind in front of his eyes. He could make out a shape below the snow.
"What the..." he narrowed his eyes, bending down and reached deep into the snow.
Through the coat of snow his fingers found a damp but soft material. Wait, material? He scooped the snow out the way and a white jacket became visible. He leaned back trying to taking it in. He caught it then- the strand of pink hair that rested on the top.
'Could it be?'
He pushed off more snow, uncovering the body that lay underneath. He froze when the pale face became visible. The long lashes and the tresses of pink hair clear to his eyes. Juliette lay before him, completely still, motionless and a deathly colour. He hesitantly touched his index finger to her cheek, immediately flinching.
"She's frozen..."
He cursed as he uncovered more snow at a faster pace and noticed a large brown rectangle in her arms.
"Baka." She really did come out here for the stupid package.
He gripped her shoulders, pulling her up, noting that he was actually in a close proximity with her where he wasn't half murdering her. Her head lay limp backwards as he eyed her and hauled her up into his arms, curling one arm under her knee's and the other behind her back and neck supporting her, the package on her abdomen. He could feel her vulnerability, how small she was compared to him though they both were the same age. He was trained, built, while she was fragile and like a matchstick. He pushed aside all thoughts when he noticed the innocence pasted on her face as she lay unconscious. It differed from usual; it had no trace of sadness or any fear, but peace. He shook his head harshly. No, she wasn't any better than any of the past doctors. She still wasn't to be trusted.
He quit arguing inside his head and began walking back towards the abbey once again. As he got to the doors, he pushed it open with his back and brought them out the horrific weather. Her skin seemed paler than ever. This was not a good sign. Where was he supposed to take her?
'Some place warm' he thought.
That was the only logical solution. Her room was freezing, even if he buried her in blankets, it wouldn't help her now at all. The infirmary wasn't any better. She needed heat and fast. Clutching her to him, he headed down the tunnels, ignoring the cameras and paused outside a solid door. With a kick, he pushed it open and walked through the common room, coming across his bedroom door. The common room was already heated with the fireplace alight. His room had heaters. As much as he wanted to protest, he had to get her warm before she died, if she wasn't already dead.
He placed her down on top of the covers before grabbing several blankets and pulling them over her. Then he stood still and watched her. She didn't move and it seemed like she wasn't breathing. In a quick movement he held a finger under her nose and felt a weak breath touch his skin.
'So she's alive.'
She still made no movement and he frowned. He sacrificed his bed. He gave the warmth so why the hell wasn't she getting up already? Suddenly there was a loud crash and loud footsteps. Several. Tala turned his head as he watched his room door swing open and 4 figures stumbled in.
"What are you doing here?" Tala coldly questioned.
"There was word that you carried in Juliette, a guard saw it on CCTV" Cole informed, flickering his gaze to the pink haired lifeless female on the bed and the icy glare of the captain.
"Is she okay? Nani? What the hell happened?" Keiji rushed forward, touching her forehead with his palm. His indigo eyes widened.
"She's ice cold! We need to get some kind of drug to help her wake up."
"And what would that be, seeing as you seem to be the genius in the doctor department" Cole glared.
Keiji only glared in return. "Keep up your cocky tone and she's going to die because we can't find a way to help her."
Spencer and Ian watched the fragile face of the young doctor and turned to their captain.
"What happened Tala?" Spencer asked.
"She was a baka."
All 4 pairs of eyes were on him, half glaring. Tala only crossed over his arms.
"I only know she had to pick up some package from outside and as you can tell, it's a blizzard out there. I stumbled on her and brought her in, only she's in this lifeless state" he glanced back at Juliette with narrowed eyes.
"Chikusho... I don't know what to do" Keiji growled, clenching his fists.
Footsteps interrupted them as a gray haired male walked in. He arched his eyebrow, catching the 5 figures in the room looking half confused. "What is going on here? This is Demolition Boys turf, you two aren't supposed to be here" he pointed out to Cole and Keiji.
He froze when he saw the figure lying in Tala's bed and caught the pink hair and immediately erased his thoughts. Having seen the concern now on Bryan's face, Tala moved aside.
"She's half frozen, I know she had a fever and she was just outside in the blizzard for god knows how long. She isn't getting up" Keiji informed, turning to look dejectedly at the young girl.
Bryan walked past them all, taking a good look at the young doctor. "Ido," he ordered Keiji who glared in return but obeyed. Bryan took in every detail before straightening himself up.
"We'll need a flannel with a bowl of lukewarm water. Some syrup and a hot water bottle" he listed.
When no reply came he turned around with a icy glare. "Now!"
Keiji, Cole, Ian and Spencer nodded and left the room leaving Tala and Bryan with Juliette. Bryan looked at his captain.
"So you brought her in did you?" he raised an eyebrow.
Tala could sense where this was heading and turned away with a grunt. "Whatever. I wasn't going to have some burden on my shoulders and facing Boris' rage. Not to mention her father."
Bryan resisted a smirk, because amidst Tala's cold words, he caught a crack, a small tiny fragment of concern. The small gasp for breath caught their attention as they turned to look at the girl whose cheeks seemed to have gained some colour though it still wasn't a good sign seeing as it was a little red from her fever.
"She really is a baka" Bryan mumbled, narrowing his eyes. "I'll be back" he nodded and left the room, closing the door behind him.
Tala shifted his eyes to the now breathing female. Her face looked like she was in agony. She would be fine anyway; Bryan knew what he was doing. It was then he noticed the bulge on her abdomen. Small but distracting. He pulled back the blankets and noticed a pale green beyblade poke out from inside her jacket. He quickly picked it up, re-doing the blankets and moved back. The blade was like any normal beyblade, nothing like theirs and certainly nothing like his own. There was no sign of a bit-beast either seeing as the chip was a clear circle of white. Why did she seem so anxious when he mentioned Boris last night? She was hiding away the blade like it was like some sacred jewel. Was it the fact it was a gift from her mother that made it so important? Who knew, but he would find out soon...
Gaaaah! I so LOVED writing that last scene! Oooh and it seems Tala is very curious about Juliette's beyblade! I hope you enjoyed that as much as I did :D I just want to say that as Tala is really cold-hearted, he won't suddenly jump into 'trust Juliette mode' that easily. So bear with me cos it only gets better! Next chapter we will be seeing Boris intervene and things don't look too good for Juliette! If you want Chapter Eight, then you know what to do! REVIEW! ) Thanks to all my current reviewers, I love you all!
Ciao!