Wohoo! Lots of reviews and a quickish update ;) I did promise! You can consider this chapter as part 2 of Chapter Nine haha since that was how it originally was. Anyway, it's not as long as Chapter Nine but almost!
LyraBaka: Wow thanks for the awesome long review and for the suggestion. Sadly, I'm not admin on my computer, my brother is :( so I can't install anything and he won't do it for me lol. I have to stick with USB's I'm afraid. I'm glad you liked it! Your review actually did make me laugh lol. I don't think Juliette can bring herself to get pissed and pwn Demetri but he will get what's coming to him don't worry! ;) Aww you praise me too much! I do try to make them as 'in-character' because I'm not much of a fan of OOCness. Ooo well, enjoy chapter ten, I think everyone might JUST be surprised! Please review at the end and enjoy Chapter Ten!
Potasi: Chapter Nine is one of my favourites too! Glad you liked it! Aw, well I think you won't be disappointed as there is TalaxJuliette in this chapter! Romance will bloom very soon! Thanks for reviewing, enjoy chapter ten and tell me what you think!
Ariao: Yes! Kill Demetri! You probably will hate him more after reading this chapter lol. Thanks for reviewing, I updated fast! Cupcake please! Oh and a review after you read chapter ten? ;D
Guest: Glad you like it! Thanks for the review :)
Rebelle Boss: Thanks for reviewing! Chapter Ten will satisfy your curiosity! Thank you! Breaking the Ice chapters are safe don't worry :D Enjoy and review at the end please!
tangmo: Thanks for reviewing! Haha I felt like Chapter Nine had to end on that cliffhanger. Ooo good guess! But I'm not telling anyone a THING about Juliette's mother haha. I could but I will let you all suffer in suspense for a while cos I'm evil :P Hm I will try to get more Bryan in but I really need to start moving the story towards Tala and Juliette but I promise to try! Oh he's still rough and tough don't worry ;) Enjoy chapter ten and tell me what you think!
Vermillion: I do try to make chapters long but it takes so much energy lol plus it depends on the content of a chapter, sometimes I don't write as much because I usually get ideas in between and make it longer. I'll try making them long though! Oh she won't forget it but something does alter her thoughts! Read chapter ten to see and review! Thanks again for reviewing :)
leikoashimage: Sorry for the lateness of Chapter Nine but heres Ten and updated much faster! Ah, Juliette can be a bit of damsel in distress but that's because she is really oblivious of the real world. She has been trapped inside her house her whole life and only ever went out to her clinic so she hasn't really experienced suffering like at the abbey or met people like the students there. It is an angsty fic and I really can't see Juliette being a rebel like Tai in your fic, she can try to be confident but as you can often tell, she feels guilty or really scared after she speaks up. She will gain confidence as time passes and hopefully you will get to like her a bit more. Thanks for reviewing and enjoy chapter ten and tell me what you think! :)
mahjabinmaliha: Aw it's okay! Thanks for reviewing and I'm glad you enjoyed chapter nine, heres ten and I think you just might like the outcome ;) or not lol. Tell me what you think!
Beylover: Thank you and for your review! Aha! Don't worry, I also figured that out and I do write these things for a reason :P it will be explained in this chapter. It's true Bryan has somewhat bonded with Juliette but not completely. It's explained in the beginning so I hope you enjoy it. Thanks! Enjoy chapter ten and review me your thoughts and questions!
Guest: Read chapter ten and you will find out ;) thanks for reviewing! and thank you to the other Guest for reviewing too! Enjoy chapter ten and tell me your thoughts!
Eeeeek okay, I really love this chapter lol though it has a dark scene which I hope you find okay, it was necessary. I know everyone is eager to find out what Tala is going to do after his little outburst with Juliette, you might all just be surprised! Okay enjoy chapter ten and REVIEW at the end so I can see what you thought! Ah it's still in Normal POV in the beginning. :)
Chapter Ten
"You didn't need to take it so far."
Bryan watched as the cold hearted captain cowered away from his face, clenching his fists that rested by his sides. Not knowing what Tala was feeling, he decided to keep his voice down though the annoyance he felt was really eating him inside. Tala made a mistake, one that cost him Juliette's trust and faith. He wondered what she must be doing now, injured and bleeding. She hadn't deserved it.
"There was a need" came Tala's reply.
Something ignited inside Bryan, making him look up in a jolt, shooting daggers into Tala's back. Did his ears deceive him?
"Did you even he-"
"I heard what you said." Tala turned around, his face bearing no remorse of his actions but the plain bitter glare he always had.
Bryan grimaced, pushing himself off the wall and straightening his posture. "Then why are you still here instead of seeking for Juliette? It was your mistake, you make up for it."
Now Tala's eyes darkened and he felt a sudden familiar spark of anger rise up. "Listen to yourself! That girl has changed you, changed everyone. You are asking me to apologize and seek her forgiveness? Have you forgotten who we are?" He snapped harshly at the gray haired male.
Bryan double backed, eyes widening. Tala's words sunk in like venom and there was truth behind that. If either of them committed a wrong in the past, it was considered as a formal decision at the time. They would never apologize for whatever they did to anyone else, even if it was wrong. Juliette's influence had taken such a toll that he even subconsciously changed his morals. They were the Demolition Boys, ruling champions of the Beyblade World Championships and believed victory was all that mattered.
"Look at everyone, look at you Bryan," Tala smirked, challenging him. "You've become soft."
In a flash, Tala was shoved up harshly against the wall with a fist curled round the collar of his uniform. Tala looked directly into the moonstones before him that were shaking with ire. The smirk refused to leave Tala's lips. "Did I strike a nerve?"
"You take that back" Bryan snarled into his captain's face.
Tala's icy eyes narrowed. "You fool Bryan, even Ian and Spencer haven't stooped to your level. You disappoint me Bryan, I expected better from you. Boris won't be happy."
Bryan tightened his hold on the collar, gritting his teeth whilst growling.
"You may trust her and she may be who she claims to be but she's out to change everyone. I didn't see you doing much to help her when I hurt her," Tala neared his face closer, smirking whilst lowering his voice, "which means, deep down, you don't want to change who you are. Am I right?"
Bryan's eyes widened, his grip loosened allowing Tala's collar to be free. His feet took an uneasy step back as Tala's words sunk in. Instead of feeling the rage he had been venturing on his captain, he felt fear. Thick, cold and bitter fear. The truth was like a reality slap only a hundred times worse. Had he really let his guard down so much? Was he willing to change who he was? The heartless blader he used to be changed the moment he began to let that girl in. He was lost in his thoughts and didn't notice Tala walking past him but pausing beside him for a moment.
"You know I'm right."
Bryan listened as Tala's footsteps were heard, walking away from him. Just exactly what did he feel? He almost scoffed at the word; a few weeks ago he would never have considered the word 'feeling' and now he was battling the emotions inside him. The emotions that the abbey had beaten out of him ever since he arrived and now they were back as if Juliette had a magic touch. What was he doing? Juliette was genuine; she was someone that could save them all from the suffering taking place in this dreadful abbey. For years, their suffering was hidden away from the public for if anyone were to find out and inform the BBA then they would never be able to enter the championships. The same championships they won every year. Power. That was what he wanted wasn't it? What they all wanted... Except Boris wasn't at all bothered by the fact that they wanted power, no, it was all spread out in front of them when he mentioned they needed Kai in order to take over the world. That was it! This wasn't about them, about them winning and becoming the best bladers in the world, this was about Boris' master plan to rule the world and they were his puppets. Mere pawns in this game of chess and he was the King. It seemed Juliette knew more than they did and she did her best to change this. He had been afraid to change because he didn't want that power hungry feeling to go, that was every blader's dream in the abbey. The decision was clear.
"You were right."
Tala paused, turning his head to the side.
"I didn't want to change. Emotion's make you weak" he turned around to face Tala who also turned, raising an eyebrow.
"But that doesn't mean I'm afraid to change. Not anymore. Maybe, I just felt we had a sign of hope with Juliette being here, so we could achieve our goal without having to go through the suffering. You were wrong Tala, you may be captain but that doesn't mean every decision or action you make is right."
Tala glared darkly, baring his teeth ready to protest and argue back but it seemed he was being overpowered. He felt shocked inwardly, at Bryan's sudden change in behaviour. Like a force to be reckoned with.
"You know what else?" Bryan narrowed his eyes. "I'm glad I didn't stop you from unleashing your rage on Juliette. Now she can see you for what really are. You don't deserveher generosity."
Tala snarled. "Go to hell."
"We're already here" Bryan retorted, walking past his captain and entering his room, slamming the door shut behind him leaving Tala to think with himself.
The red haired captain grimaced, fists tightly clenched at his sides as he watched the door shut, cutting off his view of Bryan. He never expected Bryan; out of all of them to speak up the way he did for something that he thought to be impossible. Bryan, changing because of his faith in that girl. What was worse is that he himself was battling the choice between right and wrong inside him. Everything he said to Bryan had some truth behind it but at the same time...why did he feel as if everything he said was wrong? Was he trying to justify his actions even though he knew somewhere deep in his mind he was immoral? He swallowed the lump in the throat, putting aside his feelings of rage. His mind recollected the memories he had of the pink haired doctor, the countless times he vented his anger on her yet she stood as still as a doll and enduring the pain. She tried to save others though she knew it was against Boris' wishes. She had saved him twice. A third if you counted the time she patched up his arm. Why? Why did she constantly keep trying to get closer to them even though she knew of their dark personalities?He refused to change, Bryan may think different but he was different. He was Boris' strongest blader and he was content with that. Accepting this he turned to leave for his own room but then froze when his own mind echoed a repeat of voices.
'I'm glad I didn't stop you from unleashing your rage on Juliette. Now she can see you for what really are, you don't deserve her generosity.'
'It didn't matter to me how many times you would push me away but I feel this need...to save you.'
He froze, sucking in a small gasp and eyes widening at the echo of the memory. What had convinced him to tell her to stay that night? Was it the strange feeling of warmth he felt when she sat beside him? Or was it because for once, he didn't want to have faced the terror of the thunderstorm's rage that night? Why did she have to come here?She ruined everything and now he even doubted himself! Growling, he stormed into his room, blocking out every thought.
*Juliette P.O.V*
Every step I took sent excruciating pain through every bone and muscle in my body. My vision was also becoming blurred and I was sure I had some form of concussion. If I didn't hurry, the wound on my head would bleed excessive amounts leaving me to collapse from blood loss. Nothing hurt as much as my heart did right now. I felt like I had been endlessly stabbed with a dagger inside. How could Tala accuse me of such a thing? I hadn't breathed a word about last night to anyone, not even to Juan or Keiji. In fact, I was over the moon that we were on better terms. I knew I had been wishing too hard and hoping far too much for it to be true. I should have known it wouldn't last. I should have heeded Astor's words and stayed away from them.
'I tried to warn you Juliette. Look at what he has done to you and on the base of no evidence. He has no heart, please my dear Juliette, and stay away from Tala. I beg of you' Artemis pleaded, her voice filled with concern and hurt due to my stupidity of ignoring her warnings. She too was in pain now; I heard her cry echo the moment I collided with the cupboard.
I felt tears stream down my cheek that released once I managed to leave their common room. I was gasping for oxygen, feeling the need to lie down. Artemis was right, she always was right. I failed to see what she had foreseen all along and I was paying the consequences and allowing her to suffer in the progress. There was no changing Tala, just because Bryan seemed to act different it didn't mean that everyone would. Perhaps this abbey has had a permanent effect on some people and it seemed I was completely wrong about Tala. The anger in his eyes when he threw the accusation was like facing death itself, I hadn't realised he could be so ominous. The infirmary seemed miles away from where she was now and with every step it was like treading on glass barefoot. The only thing I hoped I didn't come across is any of the students or guards though it was useless to hide from the CCTV cameras. I didn't care; as usual I wouldn't be able to speak the truth behind my wounds. These boys suffered enough.
At long last, I found myself at the infirmary, barely conscious as I stumbled and staggered my way to the fresh material's I stocked up and began taking out the antiseptic, tweezers and several bandages and water. Before anything, I shakily poured antiseptic onto a square piece of cotton and gently pressed it onto the back of my head. I winced, hissing out in pain as the familiar burning sensation sunk in. But it felt good. I grabbed the gauze and somehow wrapped it around my head, moving my hair out of the way the best I could. I then took a deep breath, evening my breath before moving onto the pieces of glass that managed to sink into my arms. Each piece made a tink as I took them out with tweezers and dropped them into a steel tin. None were deep which I was thankful for so I applied some cream on them. I took 2 painkillers with some water and relaxed against the cool wall, carefully avoiding leaning on the tender spot of my head. It was there I closed my eyes and released the endless flow of tears.
I made the mistake of trying to befriend Tala. I jumped in when I knew I was in a danger zone. Last night seemed like a dream and slowly I was beginning to feel as if it really were a dream. I only knew it was reality every time I looked at my arms or my reflection. These wounds that would turn into scars were living proof that no matter what happens; Tala would always remain hating me. I still wasn't able to speak to Bryan about the plan and it seemed that it was best, if I stayed out of it. Perhaps Boris will finally get what he wanted from me. To stop getting involved with his students.
'You are being negative Juliette. It is not everyone that treats you so. My advice would be to avoid contact with the Demolition Boys, they are Boris' priority and without any doubt, perhaps the least of the caring kind.'
I listened to her words, nodding mentally. With a small sigh I pushed myself off the wall, holding onto the nearby chair for support. I came here to be a doctor, that is all I should be...right?
The loud shrilling sound of my cell phone caught me off guard as I jumped, turning my head to my desk where the silver object sat. I dragged myself to the desk, picking up my phone and checking the I.D. The words revealed 'Unknown Caller' making me arch my eyebrows up. Who would call with a hidden number? I hesitated, wondering if I should pick it up or not. I sighed, flipping it open and lifted it to my ear.
"Juliette?"
I almost dropped the phone to the ground, gasping with eyes open wide and my mouth open. My hands shook and I found it difficult to breathe. After such a period of time, forgetting the sound of her voice...I recalled it immediately the moment I heard my name.
"O-Okaa-san?" I breathed out quietly.
"Hai, Juliette. It is me" the voice replied with a touch of softness.
For the third time that day, tears fell from my eyes. 6 years I was aching to hear her voice, for her to call me my name and tell me she loved me.
"I have heard your voice after such a long time" she stated from the other end.
I found myself swallowing, wiping my tears and struggling to say words. The questions I had for her seemed to fly out the window and my throat was all dried up.
"Listen Juliette, I know you want to talk and that you called but I'm busy with sorting things out here. I have only just got here and I still yet to clear things with your father. I will call you when I can, okay?"
Another stab to my heart. Okay? No, it wasn't okay. After 6 years of waiting to speak to her she calls and claims she is too busy. I could barely speak. How could she do this to me?
"For goodness sake Juliette, after this many years I expected you to have matured and grown up. Answer me" her voice turned harsh making me feel worse than ever.
"H-Hai..." I finally managed to blurt out with a whisper, fingers trembling around my phone and tears still flooding, biting my lower lip.
I heard her sigh. "Sayonara."
'Do not lose faith Juliette.'
I dropped the phone on my desk, blankly staring into space. 'It is nothing I cannot handle...she had deserted me once, I suppose she must also feel different now that she has returned in our lives.'
'Concentrate on healing now. Rest.'
I sighed lightly, leaving the infirmary and headed back to my dorm where I was able to drown myself in my thoughts and the action from the last few days.
In the morning, it was freezing. It wasn't a surprise to see it snowing outside and I could feel a draft coming in from the tiny window I had. I pulled on a sweater over my uniform to keep warm and cover away the small cuts from yesterday. I did my best to hide the bandage on my head from view using my hair but it seemed useless to try. Sleeping last night was a mission; my mind never left the thought of Tala's rage and my mother's harsh voice. It seemed everything was going downhill and I would only hope it got better again till I was disappointed once more. I had felt a little dizzy too so I took some water and an aspirin after breakfast. It seemed the Demolition Boys were nowhere to be seen that morning, word being that they were training outside. I didn't know whether to feel relief or anguish. Either way, I kept my distance. I sat myself at the infirmary that morning, filling in the details of my recent patient's medical history.
The door opened and I was welcomed with a pair of indigo coloured eyes. Keiji was gripping his right shoulder where it appeared he had a tear in his clothing. The look on his face revealed him to be exhausted and deprived of sleep. I worried for him.
"What happened?" I stood up, walking over as he sat himself down on an empty bed.
"I didn't sleep last night. It took its toll on me during the morning drill. Got a whip to wake me up but I think he dislocated my shoulder too" he hissed whilst trying to feel around his slightly bloody shoulder.
I sighed quietly, reaching over to examine the damage. We sat in silence as I felt around the area carefully before I diagnosed him. His shoulder was dislocated.
"What happened to you? Your head? What are these cu- ACK" he cried out in pain as I used the distraction to slot his shoulder back in place.
As he whimpered for a second, I moved away silently and went to grab some antiseptic and cotton wool. When I returned, I found him glaring at me. This was going to prove difficult. As I began dabbing, he watched me with wary eyes.
"Are you going to tell me?"
I shifted my eyes to his for a second before looking away. "It is nothing serious. I tripped" I falsely smiled.
He didn't seem convinced; if I were him I wouldn't be convinced either. So I avoided his eyes.
"Someone hurt you, didn't they? Was it Demetri?" His voice suddenly turned a level louder and threatening that alarmed me.
"I-Iya!" I quickly responded, giving him a look of assurance before I cowered my eyes away and threw the used items in the bin.
The silence was deafening and I felt uncomfortable though I kept my back to Keiji, refusing to turn around and meet his questioning eyes. I couldn't face him and tell him the truth. Little did I know that I didn't need to.
"It was Tala...wasn't it?" his low voice assumed.
I almost gasped at the fact he had hit the nail on the head. How he managed to guess I had no idea. I pivoted around with a look of shock sprawled across my face. His eyes narrowed and darkened with suspicion.
"It was. I know it. Unless Boris had suddenly turned tables on you then I can't guess anyone else."
I swallowed, looking away from him blankly. "It was an accident" I mumbled.
"Accident my foot. If that rat thinks he can get away with this, then he has another think coming" Keiji growled, jumping off the bed and began charging towards the door.
Horrified, I sucked in a gasp and jumped in his path, arms out wide. "No Keiji! You cannot!"
Keiji glared. "He hurt you Juliette! You think Boris is gonna like that when he hears?"
"He must not find out then. It was my fault, not Tala's. I was the one who approached him when I should have kept my distance" I protested, eagerly hoping he would stand down.
Keiji hesitated for a moment, grinding his teeth together in frustration. I let out a sigh, lowering my arms. "Promise me you won't approach Tala nor will you inform Boris about this?" I pleaded, giving a meaningful look.
He cursed, jerking his head to the side in disgust. "Fine. Only because you asked me to. If he hurts you again then there will be no mercy."
I felt discomfort when he said the last line. "Yada. I cannot allow you to get involved; it will be my battle if it comes to it again."
He frowned, not agreeing with my choice of words. "But-"
"Please?" I pleaded, biting my lower lip.
He sighed, shaking his head. "Whatever. All right. I need to go."
I nodded and told him to get some sleep soon to which he blankly ignored. As I watched him leave I glanced forlornly at the ground then at my hands.
During the afternoon, I spent most of my time at the infirmary then headed for the dungeons. Though I was questioned about the bandage on my head, they seemed content with either not knowing or buying my cover story of how I tripped and hit my head on a desk. It seemed needed. I was back in the infirmary after that and grabbed my phone, dialling the number.
"Hello?"
I took a deep breath silently. "Otou-san?" I could just tell he was frowning on the other end right now.
"Nani, what do you want Juliette?" his rough voice answered, annoyed.
"I...I wanted to know how much longer...I'd be here" I stammered out with a shaky breath. Truthfully I was curious but at the same time I wanted to see what was happening back home.
"Not anytime soon."
My face fell. So it seemed he didn't want me there and I was pretty sure okaa-sanagreed.
"I just wanted to know... Still, arigato. Sayonara" I whispered.
He grunted and ended the call the same time I did. I sighed in defeat. I jumped when I heard the door shut. I turned to face a rather disturbed looking Juan, looking like he was about to break down. His once shining bright amber eyes were now dull and lifeless.
"Juan?" I called out.
He didn't seem to move but shifted his eyes away from me. "You want to leave?"
His broken voice pained me inside and I suddenly realised that he overheard my phone call. Eyes open wide, I was about to protest when he spoke again.
"Do you hate it here? Is it because you hate us?" his eyes looked directly at me, nearly having me gasping at the pain that was revealed in them.
"No Juan! You misinterpreted my words" I quickly protested, walking forwards to him. He took a step back.
I winced inwardly. "Juan, the reason I asked my father of how much longer I would be here is because I needed a clear idea of how much time I would be able to have with everyone without having to suddenly leave without saying goodbye. That and there are things happening back home that I wish to find out, it doesn't mean I hate anyone here nor do I want to leave any of you."
His eyes changed, looking rather hopeful. "Really?"
I smiled and nodded. He embraced me then. "I don't want you to leave Juliette. No one does because we all care about you like you do for us."
I froze. Tala's image flashed in my head and I felt myself sink. I was glad Juan couldn't see my face right now. "Thank you" I whispered.
The evening came by fast and training hours would be over. I had just spent time in the Level 2 training room where there was an outbreak of collapsed bodies from exhaustion. I immediately prescribed for them to have at least 10 hours of sleep to which the guards murmured with each other and dismissed the boys. I hadn't seen any of the Demolition Boys all day and I didn't know what to feel about that.
The tunnels were dark and I realised I left my briefcase at the dungeon's. I sighed, feeling a little annoyed as the dungeons were quite a walk away. Eventually I was in the halls of the putrid smelling dungeon's that thankfully were empty for tonight. It seemed Boris was busy as I hadn't seen him all day either. Most likely working on their plan. I began my walk through the tunnels out of the dungeon. The lighting wasn't as bright as it used to be making it a tad more eerie than usual when walking back to my dorm.
I gasped only to be stopped when a rough hand clamped over my mouth tight. The briefcase dropped out from my hand making a thud on the ground and I was rammed against the stone wall, crying out with a muffle as my tender spot at the back of my head came into contact with the hard stone. A strong body was pushed up against my own and I felt my heart hammering, my brain screaming for me to fight against it. It useless in doing so as I was pinned, their legs forcing my own to stay where they were and my arm held down by the other arm. As I tried to use my spare arm to push off the hand I sucked in a gasp as I stared into sea blue eyes.
"Surprise."
I screamed, cried, bawled for what my breath was worth but it was futile with his hand clamped over my mouth. As I struggled under Demetri's grasp, he only smirked, chuckling darkly as he watched my attempts to escape.
"You aren't going anywhere" he hissed close to my face.
It was then I noticed the bruises formed around his face and neck. It struck me on what was happening. He was getting his revenge.
"Thanks for these extra punishments. I just want to show you what happens to those that challenge me. You think you are protected? That everyone else will stop me from getting what I want? Open your mouth and I'll kill you right here, do you hear me?" He threatened with a snarl, inching his bruised face closer while I whimpered feeling my lips bruise.
'Juliette! Break free Juliette! You must do something!' Artemis cried in my head.
I struggled, I tried shoving, tugging, biting but it was impossible. He had more strength than I did right now and I felt myself tremble and shake with the utmost fear. This couldn't be happening! Why did he have something against me?
He released his grip on my mouth but before I could scream he roughly gripped my cheeks with the hand, pressing them inwards tightly so that it hurt the inside of my mouth.
"Stop! Get off!" I tried to cry out through my squeezed mouth, grabbing his hand and trying to pry it off with failed attempts.
He only widened his smirk as his eyes darkened. A look that didn't look too good. His feet pressed into my own making me cry out as it felt like boulders were crushing my feet and its bones. A tear escaped my eye and before it could drop down to the ground, something slimy licked it off. I gasped, flinching any further back if possible to see him licking his lips.
"Ah, you do taste good," he breathed.
Before I could try screaming he clamped the hand over my mouth again. As a miracle I found my teeth being able to move and used this chance to bite down hard onto his hand. He yelped out in pain, as I shoved him back but not enough to throw him over. I took two steps away in a move to run but was only slung back against the wall, hitting the tender spot once again making my cry out. Before I knew what he was doing, his hand lashed out, grabbing my sweater collar and yanking it so fiercely that it tore all the way down. I gasped the loudest I had ever done so in my life. He couldn't be... He can't!
"IYAAA-"
"SHUT UP" he growled, clamping my mouth tightly as he yanked at my sweater, pulling it right off.
There was a waterfall of tears and nothing could describe of the horror I felt at the moment. Anything but this! Please! I prayed and prayed, hoping there was a camera but doubted it seeing as this tunnel was just an ordinary path leading to other paths and struggled trying to find some miracle to free myself. He seemed to get stronger with every attempt and I found myself breaking down completely though I had Artemis scream at me inside my head not to give up. Paralyzed, I almost froze when my sweater dropped to the ground and his hand managed to yank at the sleeve of my shirt, making a tear revealing my shoulder. Icy temperatures dug at my skin but I was more petrified at what was happening to me. Another tear on my other sleeve as I managed to avoid him pulling at the front of my shirt. With blurred vision and a painful throb in the back of my head, I felt myself losing energy and felt dizzy.
"BE QUIET!" He hissed, tightening his hold on my mouth that now felt like it had been hit with an iron.
I tried pleading only seeing amusement in his eyes as he aimed to lash at me again. I gave a last attempt as he dove for my front but failed as he made a tear in the collar, only revealing my neck.
"I said, stop mo-"
He froze. I froze. We both heard the sound of footsteps that paused a metre away from us. Demetri turned his head around as I turned to the side, barely seeing anything as wet tears blinded my sight. I took this chance to shove Demetri with all my remaining strength resulting in him falling back but maintained standing. Instead of leaping back at me, he stood where he was, horrified at the source of the footsteps. Letting out the sob that I held in my aching heart I crouched down, covering my shoulders with my arms and putting my head down in shame. It was there I broke down, feeling my pulse race like I was having a panic attack. Nothing could describe the horror of what just happened.
"Y-Y-You..." I heard Demetri's voice whisper, shaking.
I wiped at my eyes of endless tears and glanced to my side to see a tall figure. The lighting barely revealed him but then I caught it. Red hair, pointed out in 2 directions. The flame flickered by the walls, igniting Tala's blue icy eyes that seemed to look darker than ever that exchanged between me and Demetri. I turned my head away, unable to bear looking at either of them, instead I sobbed and sobbed.
"T-Tala, I-I-I can explain!" Demetri's voice changed from its devious tone to a feared and vulnerable one.
There was a pause with only my sobbing echoing in the halls and the hard breathing belonging to Demetri.
"Okay. Explain," came the other stoic voice, calm and collected.
Demetri seemed to struggle for words because I could only hear him trying to give some sort of explanation that wouldn't get him in trouble. I felt myself go numb, allowing my sobs to quieten down. The shaking feeling in every nerve cell of my body refused to respond and even my brain felt switched off. I couldn't even hear Artemis.
I heard the sound of charging footsteps and then a loud thump with the sound of someone coughing and struggling to breathe. I lifted my head up as I watched the sight before me anxiously. Tala held Demetri by his neck against the wall who then seemed to be frantically trying to get off his grip. I didn't need to guess the expression Tala probably has on his face right now. I didn't know whether to be thankful for his presence or furious that he was going completely against what he had ordered me to do in our last encounter.
'If you ever, ever come near me again, I'll be sure to kill you, I don't care who's daughter you are.'
I winced at the memory. Why was he here now? My head swirled and I felt my vision blur but my hearing hanged on.
"There is a limit to what every student is permitted to do," Tala's dark threatening voice echoed. "Juliette is not a toy."
I almost jerked my head up in shock. There was a battle of anger and gratitude inside my head which made my pain all the worse. I focused on what they were saying.
"Get out of my sight, and remember, you aren't getting off so lightly."
I sensed the brutality behind Tala's last words before I heard shuffling and quick footsteps leaving out of my hearing range. My sobs had decreased and now I only shook and whimpered, my arms still circled around my shoulders as my knees were folded up to my chest. I heard Tala turn, taking a step forwards near me, watching him from the corner of my eye. I flinched away to the side, enabling him to pause and take a step back. I wished for him to leave me because I didn't want to see his face knowing he held hatred for me. I didn't want to hear his words on how I was stupid. Nothing. Salty tears slid down silently and I felt it touch my lips. I clutched my arms tighter, as if I felt too revealed in front of him.
The sound of shuffling made me open my eyes as I heard a zip and then something flickered in the corner of my eye. I froze, pausing my quiet sobs and looked up to the side where I saw a white and orange jacket with the purple sleeves hanging. A hand holding it at the top leading to Tala whose head was turned away to the side, his eyes closed. I felt my breath quicken and a wash of warmth run through my veins. He was offering me his uniform jacket... It took me a moment to finally get my brain to respond as I shakily lifted one of my arms and grabbed a hold of the soft material. Feeling the tug, Tala had let go, recoiling his hand and turning his back to me. He had a black t-shirt on but didn't seem affected by the cold. I felt grateful but at the same time, I couldn't seem to forget what had happened between us. I should stay away...
I blinked, taking a small breath before releasing my arms and sliding on the jacket, clutching the opening and holding it shut tightly with my hands. I felt immediate warmth and caught his scent. The jacket smelled like winter, like the fresh cool air of Mother Nature with a touch of frost. It was like being home on my balcony... I was so lost in thought that I hadn't realised Tala was waiting for me to speak.
"Get up."
I shook my head, immediately regretting it as my head pained and I hissed. He turned around, his icy eyes narrowing to the side of my head before turning back around leading us out of the dark tunnels. My body felt numb but I managed to pick myself up and take hesitant steps. My mouth pained and I was sure it bruised and left marks. There were pink lines across my wrists too. I couldn't believe what had just happened... I never dreamed I would come across that kind of situation. It would scar me for life now. We walked in silence, me a few feet behind, clutching the jacket tight and keeping my head down. My cheeks felt dry and my eyes burned. I realised he had taken me to my dorm room because I saw the number 16 on the wood as we stopped. I avoided his eyes as he opened the door. I didn't expect him to walk in and stand beside my desk so I hesitated outside.
"If you don't want to collapse and die of hypothermia then get inside" he coldly rebuked.
I blankly stared into my room, avoiding his eyes at all costs. The logic sunk in so I walked in slowly, clutching the open ends of his jacket tighter. I walked towards my bed, pausing just beside it, facing my back to him. I fought to keep my thoughts inside and blandly looked at nothing. He too said nothing and we stood there for what seemed like ages in an uncomfortable silence. I heard footsteps then a creak of cupboards then it stopped. I didn't dare to turn around.
"What happened just goes to show how much you lack common sense. You don't belong here; you should leave and never come back. Ever since you set foot in this abbey, all you achieved was adding to Boris' fury and getting yourself hurt because you lack intelligence" he coldly hissed.
That felt like another pile drive on my chest because his words hurt. There was so much I wanted to say but I just couldn't face him.
"You got yourself into this situation, just look in the mirror to see your state if you want proof."
"Why did you save me?" I quietly mumbled, not moving a muscle other than my lips.
There was pitch silence. I turned to face him, my now dull and dark eyes staring at him in the same cold and questioning glares he gave me except mine didn't hold the same bitterness his did. He seemed to look aggravated, eyes solidly staring into my own as tried to answer.
"Because I didn't want it hanging off my shoulders making me feel like crap. I'm not going to carry that around" he retorted, narrowing his eyes.
My eyes must have sparked because I felt a surge of confidence. "Yada. I don't believe you. You could have chosen to leave me to face my fate and move on like it was nothing. You said so yourself that I deserved to feel every suffering that every student had felt here."
I almost swallowed when I caught the small wince on his face. Shocked at my own voice speaking aloud, I turned my eyes away, looking guilty for having to put him in a situation that was probably angering him.
"There are rules here. What he tried to do was ra-"
"I know what he tried to do!" I cried, grimacing as a tear escaped my eye. I didn't want to hear it or remember what had just happened though I knew it was going to haunt me forever. "What do you care Tala? I never understand what you actually mean because your words say one thing but mean another. You told me to stay away yet here you are. What happens to me is my business; I am someone that puts those I care about before me. So what if I get hurt now and then? What do you care!?" I let out a cry, my voice breaking on the last word.
"BECAUSE YOU'RE DIFFERENT!"
I sucked in a gasp, opening my eyes wide as every sense was wide awake. I slowly looked up to my side to see Tala turned away to his side, teeth baring violently and his fists were at his sides shaking and clenched tight. His eyes were closed and it seemed like he was fighting off every emotion he had in him.
I forgot to breathe, trying to decipher what he had just said. What he meant. My mouth was open slightly, as I stared at him in awe.
"T-Tala..." I whispered out.
"I'm trying to fight every reason that say's you are different because I don't trust you. You had to come to this abbey and change everyone and that is what enrages me. Do you know what infuriated me the most?" he turned, facing me with a vicious glare. "You changed everyone subconsciously! Your irritating innocence is the root of my anger. You made me doubt myself for the first time in my life and I cannot accept that. That night I asked you to stay was a moment of weakness yet for the first time I felt I could be open. I FELT. Why couldn't you have been like every other doctor?" He roared it all out at once, breathing heavily from his long speech.
I stood there astounded. Heart pounding in my ears that I felt everything had turned upside down. I couldn't believe a word he was saying. Had I affected people here so much that I even affected Tala? Did I hold that much influence over them that even the coldest hearted male I had met even weakened at my presence? His last question caught me off guard. I never expected doctors to be so ruthless and never would I have ever guessed that doctors even treated students like dirt in this abbey.
Tala grimaced as I continued to be trapped in a shocking silence. He took a deep breath, calming himself before looking away in disgust.
"You are better off outside this abbey. You should know that after the way Demetri hurt you" he stated quietly.
That is where my anger suddenly reawakened and ignited the fire in my eyes. With a dark glare I blinked, furrowing my eyebrows.
"Demetri didn't hurt me Tala. You did."
Now it was his turn to jerk around to face me in surprise before glaring back in bewilderment. I hadn't cared that I was hurt by Demetri but Tala's words had hurt more. Demetri was open about his intentions but Tala? One moment we shared a bond and the next he threw it back in my face. How could I befriend someone like that?
"All along I had wanted to save you but I realised that you don't need saving. Because you refuse to trust anyone but yourself. What Demetri did didn't hurt twice as much as what you did Tala. For a moment, I was thankful we were openly able to talk, that finally you might be able to break out of your ice wall and trust someone. I put aside my fear of being hurt because I was eager to help you and then you broke my will to carry on," my voice broke off as I turned my head to the side swiftly, unable to look at him as a few more tears appeared.
For a while, no one said a thing and my head was pounding from all this crying and talking. I wanted to sleep it off and pretend it was all a bad dream. Except it was reality.
"You can't save everyone" Tala's quiet voice spoke up, deprived of its bitterness.
I let out a weak sigh, feeling exhausted. I wiped my tears with my hand making sure to hold on tight to the jacket with the other. "I wish I could" I whispered back.
I heard footsteps and jerked my head up to see him approach me, hand held out with a radiant white pill and a bottle of water on the other hand. His face lost most of its coldness and blankly gazed down at me. I shifted my eyes in surprise at what he was offering then into his eyes. They closed, hiding away his icy gems away from me.
"Take it. Sleep. Your head needs the rest and I'm sure you don't want to argue all night. You can give my jacket back tomorrow" he mumbled, frowning slightly.
My eyes widened and I felt a warm glow. Was that it? Is that Tala's way of saying he was sorry? Or perhaps I was dreaming too much. But I felt at that give moment, that things would really change yet at the same time they were going to be slow changes. I shakily took the pill and water, swallowing them down before I put aside the bottle. I watched him with eager eyes, wishing I could read his thoughts.
He grumbled, turning away and taking a few steps so he stood a metre away from me.
"I'm going to talk to Boris."
I jolted, looking up. Talk to Boris? About what happened? I didn't want Boris to know! Before I could protest he spoke again.
"About you leaving this abbey" he added in a monotone.
I gasped then, jumping forwards. "I-IYA!"
I circled around him to come face to face. He opened his eyes looking slightly annoyed.
"I do not want to leave. There are people relying on me right now and I cannot break their trusts. Please Tala, do not speak to Boris about it nor about what happened, I beg you" I pleaded, feeling my bottom lip tremble.
His eyes glowered, narrowing before closing altogether. With a grunt he turned his head away, nose pointing down. "Whatever."
I almost beamed, feeling a tiny smile tugging at my lips. I felt the need to do one last thing. Taking a quiet breath I took 2 steps forwards and wrapped my arms around his abdomen, letting my head relax on his chest. I felt the impact training had on his body as his hard chest gently risen up and down with his breaths. I felt warmth which was strange coming from such a cold person. His scent again was reminding me of home.
"Thank you...for saving me" I whispered into his chest.
I felt him go rigid and his arms moved as if he was too taken aback and didn't know how to react. I could hear his soft heartbeat through his chest. The moment ended when his hands grabbed at my shoulders, not harshly but sternly and pushed me back away from him. His face was turned to the side, refusing to respond or open his eyes. Without another word, he moved away and walked out of my room leaving me to my thoughts.
In the morning, I felt a slight heaviness on my head but decided I would feel better after breakfast. It wasn't too serious. As I dressed, I noticed Tala's jacket that I had folded neatly on top of my bed covers. I recalled last night and felt a wide variety of emotions that really had me confused. I had another problem too, my mouth was a faint purple colour, no doubt from the grip Demetri held over my mouth. There was no way I could cover it. I would have to think of some new excuse. That and I really needed to talk to someone about this big plan. I had no idea what terms Tala and I were on now but I was running out of time. Tournaments were only a few days away. I sighed, picking up the jacket, placing it inside my briefcase out of sight before leaving for the common room. Training would commence in a few minutes which gave me time to return the jacket.
I was racking with nerves as I knocked on the door. What would happen? Would things be different? I was welcomed with a frown from Spencer as he opened the door. I shifted my eyes past him, scanning the room but he blocked me.
"Is Tala there?" I asked.
His eyebrow arched, no doubt surprised because he probably heard of what happened the night before. Before he could answer me I saw Bryan approach and his eyes immediately fixated on me.
"He's gone out for a few minutes" Bryan responded, looking like his attention was somewhere else though he was looking at me.
I frowned. "Oh. I'll return later" I turned to leave when a hand grabbed my wrist causing me to wince as I was pulled into the room sternly. I was facing the 3 remaining Demolition Boys, all staring at my face. I felt an uncomfortable feeling and started fidgeting with my briefcase handle, avoiding their eyes.
"What's with the bruises?" Bryan muttered.
I jolted my head up in shock. So this is what it was about... And I hadn't even come up with an excuse either. I bit my bottom lip and regretted it as it was tender.
"O-Oh, n-nothing. I...I just...It's nothing" I stammered out, keeping my eyes down, wishing I could run out.
The common room door opened and shut as footsteps were heard. "Demetri tried to rape her."
I grimaced, jerking my head back in horror at Tala's casual tone of revealing what had happened. I felt a pang of pain hit me in my stomach and stared into his blue eyes that evidently said he didn't care who knew. Dreading to turn around, I inhaled and looked upon the boy's expressions. Ian seemed to be frowning, standing by the coffee table with his beyblade in his hand that he put down. Spencer looked a little astounded and at the same time, refused to move. Bryan looked between furious and disgust. His moonstones blazing as his eyes scanned me and I turned away in shame.
"Tch. That scumbag has been harassing her endless" Bryan hissed in disgust, turning his eyes away and crossing his arms.
"We can deal with him. He's not exactly Boris' favourite student seeing as he spends most of his time in the pit" Ian added with a bitter tone.
I swallowed, sucking in a gasp. As much as I hated Demetri for what he tried to do, I felt a surge of guilt and fear.
"Then we'll destroy him" Bryan suggested.
In horror I protested. "Dame! Please, don't do anything. Yes it was wrong what he tried to do but he faces enough punishment here as it is. I cannot bear the thought of anyone suffering more than that" I looked away, wishing I bit my tongue and kept silent because they all sent dark glares at me like I was insane.
"You don't know the meaning of suffering" Tala mumbled coldly from behind, walking into view.
I looked down forlornly. I guess I didn't... But that didn't meant I want Demetri to suffer any more than he already does. He must know by now that he had to stay away right? ...right? I swallowed.
"Whatever. We got training. Look after yourself" Bryan looked at me giving a nod.
I smiled. "I will. Arigato, all of you."
They walked out one by one and I called out to Tala before he could leave. He froze, looking over his shoulder with a glare. I ignored it, grabbing his jacket from my briefcase and held it out. His eyes flickered down to it before taking it from my hands and walked out without a word.
At the infirmary, I met with Keiji who also noticed my bruises.
"It is nothing serious. Don't worry" I assured.
He glared, not looking at all satisfied but succumbed.
I paused when refilling my briefcase. "Keiji, do you also know about Tala's secret?"
There was a pause.
"Pretty much everyone does" he scoffed.
I winced. Feeling bad that his phobia was now out in the open. "It's just...I'd feel better if everyone ignored it. Tala is still a strong contender and powerful. A small phobia doesn't make him any weaker."
I turned to see Keiji darkly glaring at me making my face fall. He didn't like what I just said and I feared he would vent his anger.
"You sure are helping him a lot considering everything he did to you" he huffed coldly.
I flinched slightly, looking down. "There's reasons behind every action Tala does. I know better than to give up so easily because Tala is no easy person to get close to."
His glare darkened further and looked away in disgust. I felt a wave of hurt hit me.
"You should still stay away. He will only continue to hurt you" he mumbled before leaving.
I sighed dejectedly. Could he be right?
'I would advise the same Juliette but it seems Tala's behaviour has also made me doubt my thoughts. Perhaps it would be safe...to give it a try.'
'I too believe there is hope for Tala. He has been fighting himself for so long and it was my fault for the cause of his anger. I must make up for that and show him that he can trust people.'
'I wish you all the best dear Juliette.'
I smiled. 'Arigato Artemis.'
The day flew as I felt better though I kept replaying the scene with Demetri over and over which resulted in me avoiding the solitary tunnels. I always walked with someone or kept in the sight of security cameras. Though I knew Demetri was probably put off from attacking me again, it didn't stop the fear in my mind.
I couldn't seem to sleep that night, thinking about all that has happened. Okaa-san hadn't called, I still was nowhere near on discovering Boris' plan and I hadn't seen the Demolition Boys or Demetri or Juan all day.
I was broken out of my thoughts from the sound of a beyblade and immediately jumped out of bed. As I walked through the darkness and icy drafts I found myself in the familiar room of stone pillars with a silvery white blade zooming in zigzags around the room. In the distance I saw the red hair and tall figure standing and watching with content eyes. They looked up once spotting me but didn't show any emotion. Just its usual cold stare. I stepped inside, hesitating as I folded my arms across my chest to keep in warmth. Quietly, I walked over to the bench and watched his blade. I remembered the dazzling blue wolf I had seen when he battled and was drawn to its beauty.
Thinking aloud I mumbled, "May I see Wolborg?"
There was silence and I looked up to see Tala glaring at me with narrowed eyes. It seemed like he wasn't going to agree but I was proved wrong when he recalled his blade to his hand and walked over, sitting down with a gap between us. He looked like he was arguing with himself whether to show me or not but eventually as I eyed him with eagerness, he held out the shining beyblade with the image of the icy wolf in the chip. My eyes twinkled and I felt myself smile while I held the blade in my hands. A cold feeling washed over me and it was like I could feel Wolborg's energy. So powerful yet discreet.
"He really is beautiful" I whispered, looking down intently at the blade.
Tala remained silent, eyes closed as he refused to look at me. I then felt a tug at my heart.
'Artemis?'
'I know what you are thinking Juliette. You may proceed if you trust your decision and believe it to be right.'
I nodded and took a deep breath. I slid my hand into my pocket, pulling out my own pale green blade with the clear image of Artemis on the chip. I smiled down at it, fully confident about my decision. I turned to my side, holding out Artemis.
"There is another important reason why this blade means so much to me" I began, smiling down at my blade.
Tala opened his eyes, turning and then they widened when seeing what was in my right hand.
"I've had Artemis since I was 11; she sort of came to be from an old cherry blossom tree my mother's grandparents had planted in our back garden. No one knows about her, I cannot risk her getting caught by my father or even Boris. She is different from beasts as she has a human form of one. I fear she will be experimented on if she were revealed" I narrated the known story for the first time in my life; to a person I had barely begun to trust.
Tala's eyes were wide now, a frown on his face as he analysed my blade.
"That's impossible. I picked that same blade up the day you was unconscious from being buried in the snow. The chip was empty" he recalled, narrowing his eyes.
I chuckled lightly. "I too was shocked. She told me that we're linked through our energies so whatever I feel, she feels it too. When I'm unconscious, then her image erases from my blade until I awaken."
Now Tala seemed more than bewildered, fascinated by the strange piece of information.
"It speaks?" He arched an eyebrow.
I nodded. He remained silent but then slowly reached over and took the blade from my hand. At first I felt fear that he might do something but felt stupid in having such thoughts. He merely held it and analysed the blade, narrowing his icy eyes at the chip.
"Do you battle with her?"
Horrified, I sucked in a gasp and looked away. Lowering my voice I winced, "I can never use Artemis for battle. I have never used her for anything physical other than practising myself back home. She is very dear to me" I tailed off.
He grumbled before turning silent. I glanced at him, wondering what he was thinking and feeling. He was gazing at Artemis, seeming to be in a trance then suddenly he shook his head roughly.
"I think I heard her in my head" he frowned.
I smiled. "She does get into my head a lot."
A small smirk appeared on the corner of Tala's lips that made me feel as if I made an achievement. Beaming, I took Artemis back and returned Wolborg. We then fell into a deep silence. Would this be a good time to mention it? I couldn't take the risk of losing his only thing line of trust that we had. I shut my eyes tightly, thinking hard. There seemed like no better time...I only hoped he wouldn't react brutally. Trusting my instincts I released the breath I was holding.
"Tala?"
No response. Expected.
"I know Boris is planning something with you and the other Demolition Boys..."
Tala immediately jumped up from his seat, turning away with a snarl. I jolted in fright at his rapid reaction before squeezing my hands together.
"What is he making you do? I know he wants dominance over the world but I do not understand how a beyblade tournament will help him achieve that."
"Keep your nose out of our business. It's better for you" he coldly snapped back.
I flinched, looking down. "I...I wish to know Tala..."
He jerked around looking furious. "I said keep out of our business! You don't need to know anything. Just do your job here and ignore what you heard" he hissed down at me, blue eyes raging.
I stood up, clutching my elbow. "What will either of you gain by following Boris' orders?" I risked asking, knowing I was probably on thin ice.
"I only care about being the best and strongest blader. Winning the tournament proves it and that's all I care about. I don't care about what Boris wants" he embarked bitterly.
So that was his dream... He really didn't care if he was made into a puppet but the fact he would gain in being a champion blader by following his orders just didn't seem right. There had to be more. I couldn't push it anymore tonight. With a sad whisper I asked my final question.
"Will following Boris really help you to achieve that though, because you can prove to be the best on your own without having to follow Boris. Must you obey his orders all the time?" I looked up at him to see him turn away, facing his back to me. He then ended it with a familiar sentence.
"Not everyone is fortunate enough to have a choice."
Wohoo! Finally some TalaxJuliette eh? And Tala has finally met Artemis! What will he do? ;) It gets better I promise! Hands up those who expected Tala to apologize? Muahaha he's not nice enough to say he's sorry yet but for the moment, Juliette is happy with their current relationship! I just loved the part he gave her his jacket lol and when she hugged him! Favourite scenes guys? :D
So I hope you enjoyed that! Demetri is a jerk and will get what's coming don't worry! Sadly he isn't gone forever yet. I need him lol. EXCITING NEWS, pretty soon we are going to see KAI HIWATARI make his entrance! *dies* and lots more dramatic twists ;) for the next chapter or few chapters, we shall see more TalaxJuliette and discover a secret that I bet no one would ever have guessed! No it's not what was inside the package from before lol, but that's coming soon too! Sort of slowed down in writing because I'm preparing to start my second semester from Monday but update's won't delay for a while!
Oh and forgive me if there have been words joined together or grammar errors because fanfiction is annoying, it changes the original document when I upload it -_-
I know this is a long AN but I just want to ask if people want a sequel or something or should I end it with an epilogue? Review and tell me!
Love you all!
Adios :D