OMG over 100 reviews! Thank you guys SO MUCH! You ROCK! I loved reading your reviews and as promised, here is the next chapter updated within said time! :D
WingedxSapphire: Oh I'm glad haha, I didn't know whether people would like that I sort of split Tala's and Juliette's romance but it had to happen! He isn't prince charming :P Oh I know, it was heart breaking writing it and making her go through all that :( lol. Thank you so much lovely, and for your review! Heres 16, please enjoy and review! x
LadyAmazon: Tala might just kiss her again soon ;) haha thanks for your review and enjoy chapter 16 and please review that too! x
Ariao: I just had to end it there haha. I KNOW. But theres reasons and also Tala is unlikely to have such a perfect and flowing relationship as a first time. They had to have troubles! Hmm, about Bryan, yes it does seem like he has feelings for Juliette at times lol I meant to show it like that but Bryan only really holds a strong friendship with Juliette as I have planned it. I possibly could include a little JuliettexBryan nothing like TalaxJuliette but I have an idea in mind. It's upto you guys if you want it :D I won't do a major love triangle, like with Keiji and Juliette, it's indirect, I like it that way better. Thanks for your review! Enjoy chapter 16 and review please! x
Rebelle Boss: You're welcome! Yep, Kai will return and speak with Juliette again don't worry :D Oh yes I do love long reviews lol, and because you comment on everything it makes it easier for me to see which parts people like best so I can do more of them like it! Yeah I do write a lot to be honest lol, short chapters aren't something I'm fond of as I'm the type of person to build up a story but have something exciting happen in every chapter. I hate writing fillers so much! lol. Thank you lovely. All will be revealed about Tala very soon! I hope you do enjoy the ending that I have planned for Breaking the Ice :P sadly that's not too far away lol :( thank you for your lovely review and enjoy chapter 16! please review it too x
Valo: Thanks for your review! I'm so glad you like it :') I know I know, I have added in some parts but just to fill in stuff otherwise it seems the story is passing too quickly. I hope you enjoy the upcoming events and this chapter too! Please review at the end x
Guest 1: It's hereeee! Read as you will ;) Glad you find it a pleasure to read my story! Oh everything will be revealed soon! Thanks for your review and please review chapter 16 too! x
The EPIC ninja of AWESOMENESS: I know! It's very heart-breaking :( I'm sorry! lol but glad you like it anyway! Thanks for your review and please review chapter 16 too! x
AKA: WOHOOO you are the 100th reviewer! Congratulations and THANK YOU! Another thank you as I do feel a whole lot better now! :D Sadly I have a buttload of coursework to do this week and filming too so updating the next chapter might be this weekend of even next Monday :( Anyway, glad you like the twists! Still more to come ;) Enjoy chapter 16 and please review! x
mahjabinmaliha: You're welcome for the long chapter! Ah now I know some people are thinking Bryan has feelings for Juliette, I actually will leave that for you to decide. If you read the reply I gave to Ariao then yeah, it explains it all :) All answers will be revealed don't worry! Yes I love your long reviews lovely! Thank you so much! Enjoy chapter 16 and please review on it too x
James Birdsong: Thank you! :) and for your review! Enjoy chapter 16 and review that too? :D x
Vermillion: Good! Its a relief that people don't hate the story because I made a rift between Juliette and Tala, it just had to happen. You're welcome lovely, as promised, here is the update :D thanks for reviewing, please enjoy chapter 16 and review it too! x
Guest 2: I'm glad you like it! Thank you :) and for your review, keeping my promise and heres the update! Enjoy! Please review at the end :D x
Wowow okay now this follows on from episode 46/47. It's not as long as the previous but next chapter is even longer and extremely important! Enjoy chapter 16 and please review at the end!
(Disclaimer: I do not own Beyblade or any of it's characters, just my OC's and sub-plot!)
Chapter Sixteen
That night I didn't sleep at all. Though Artemis did her best to console me, I refused to speak. The morning made me feel worse as feeling the fatigue caught up and hit back. I refused to eat breakfast that morning, blankly walking to the infirmary feeling like I had been stripped of my emotions.
'Please eat something my dear, you are running on empty and will get sick.'
I didn't reply. My mind kept replaying last night, Tala's haunting voice telling me to stay away. It hurt more than I would have imagined. Bryan's words were clearer than ever, he questioned me because he knew Tala was going to break his ties with me. This wasn't a place that I should have high hopes; it was futile in doing so. Tala had made it clear he wasn't going to fight by my side but why? What had been his reason? I truly believed after what we had been through that Tala would choose to fight, to somehow help me in stopping Boris. I had the support and strength but now I felt like I was at the beginning once again with nothing to hold onto. Kai may have left Biovolt and foiled Boris' plan to use him as a means to capture bit-beasts, but now it seems he has handed over the role to fulfil his plans to the Demolition Boys and in the process, they were beginning to return to their usual selves. I sat dimly in the infirmary, deep in thought. Perhaps, if I were to speak to Tala then I may get some answers. Maybe even persuade him to see he wasn't going to achieve anything by fighting with Boris. Was he trying to help create a war? I shook my head. Tala merely cared about receiving the world title, if it meant helping Boris then he would do it. How could I break that hunger for power? It was all these boys dreamed of ever since they stepped foot inside this abbey, listening to Boris' false promises. Clutching my pen tight I stood up confidently. I would speak to Tala, no matter what. I got up to leave and gasped in fright on seeing Bryan stand there looking less than happy. I hadn't even heard him come in.
"Bryan...what are you doing here?" I quietly asked.
His moonstones were not as gleaming as they used to be. It was almost like he had been drained of his spark. His face bore a frown, like he wasn't pleased in having to come here. His eyes narrowed. When he didn't reply, I decided to throw my questions forwards.
"I don't understand what is happening Bryan. Everything has changed, Tala has suddenly decided to give up, and he even told me to stay away..." I looked down, hiding my eyes away as it pained in speaking out the words. "I don't know what to do anymore."
"So you're giving up?"
I jerked my head up, a little surprised. "I'm not giving up... I made a promise" I murmured whilst shifting my eyes to the side. "But I don't understand why Tala has suddenly...changed. It's not just Tala Bryan, I was worried on seeing you all following Boris" I looked back at him, analysing his face.
A flicker of guilt showed on his face before it was covered by an ice wall. His face turned cold.
"What we do now isn't really your business. If Tala has chosen to give up then you can't do anything about it, no matter what you may mean to him" he harshly commented.
I swallowed the pain I felt on hearing those words. It just made it seem that whatever me and Tala shared was meaningless and never was strong enough to hold us together. Dreading what his answer may be I glanced at him.
"What about you Bryan? Are you also losing faith in me?"
His expression didn't change which had my heart start beating rapidly. If I lost Bryan too...then I really had a low chance of succeeding as he was the remaining member of the Demolition Boys that I could trust. Ian and Spencer had drifted, avoided me all they could. I hardly spoke to them and if I was tending to their injuries they wouldn't say a word. My stomach dropped at the thought of losing Bryan too. It seemed I would lose my allies one by one.
"The finals are 2 days away. Your chances to stop Boris are close to none. I don't entirely believe you have the power to stop him now but you can try."
I looked at the ground dejected, feeling worse than ever. Even Bryan was losing faith and I had no idea what to do next. I was hoping Tala would be able to help me to find out what Boris planned to do next and perhaps move onto releasing the bit-beasts Black Dranzer sucked in.
"Bryan, is Black Dranzer now in Boris' grasp?" I quickly asked.
His eyebrows arched for a second before he narrowed his eyes. "Why?"
"Because it could help me, I need to release those stolen spirits" I stated confidently, stepping forwards.
Bryan looked away suddenly, grumbling something I couldn't catch. He turned away, leaving the room.
"Good luck with that."
I felt another block of hope be stripped away from me as I watched Bryan leave the room in silence. What could I do? Wait till the finals and let Boris take over the world? I relied so heavily on the Bladebreakers to win so perhaps whatever last plans Boris had would fall. But at the rate of the intense training and simulations, I don't think they were a match against the Demolition Boys. Boris planned everything out to the last detail minus the part about Kai leaving Biovolt once again that I was thankful for. I sighed, falling to my knees and placing my hands flat on the cold ground. My hair clouded my face as I felt silent tears fall down my cheeks. This was a losing battle and the horrible stabbing and empty feeling of Tala's missing warmth was throbbing.
'Please Juliette, you must stay strong and have hope. Tala's betrayal is not something you must let come in between your vow to save the other students and stopping Boris.'
I immediately heeded her words though my heart ached and refused to continue. I had known Artemis longer than I have known and she had never betrayed me. I had to put her first. Wiping my cheeks I stood up.
'You are right Artemis. I must continue to keep my promise to the others.'
I felt Artemis beam; giving me positive vibes which had me feel a tiny bit better. My eyes softened, refusing to forget Tala. His words punctured a hole but I would have to continue and get my answers from him myself.
As I got to the Level 5 training room I immediately froze on seeing Demetri training there. However, even though I was visibly in sight, he hadn't spared a single glance in my direction. I felt like running from the room even so but since he didn't seem to be paying attention to me...it made it seem just a fragment safer. He wouldn't dare to make a move in front of all these people and I still wasn't too pleased with his past remarks and how he brutally had Juan punished in an unfair match. My eyes narrowed immediately. I ignored him then forth and sat down to watch them train. Since they were level 5, they were given the more intense drills, having to continue launching and so on three times the amount the Level 4 did. It was exhausting watching them. I spent the first 2 hours there, helping when I could though Demetri wasn't one of my patients thankfully. I decided to go to Boris' office in hope to seek Black Dranzer.
'Something is wrong.'
I froze in my steps, just a passage away from being on the same level as Boris' office.
'What is wrong?'
'The Black Dranzer you seek has changed.'
I felt fear hit me. 'Changed? What do you mean?'
'He is not as powerful as he used to be. Dark he is but strength he has lacked. Perhaps he has been experimented on.'
I bit my bottom lip. Black Dranzer may have been a dark bit-beast but all the same, being tested on wasn't something that was pleasant. Not for any bit-beast. I took a deep breath, approaching Boris' office.
'Is there anyone in there?'
'I do not sense any nearby presence that is not from the security room. Knock to make sure.'
I nodded and hesitated. I was afraid. What excuse could I give if Boris was in there? I lightly knocked and waited for a reply.
Silence.
I knocked once again before turning the door handle and peeking in. The room was lit and empty, no sign of Boris or anyone else for that matter. I exhaled in relief, walking in quietly and leaving the door open slightly so I could make a quick getaway. I scanned the vicinity. There was a laptop on his desk and papers and a lots of books. The walls held paintings which was strange as I hadn't expected Boris to be the kind of person to keep paintings held up in the abbey at all. It seems I was quick to judge. I quickly checked the desk, skimming through papers that bared only information about finance, remembering my father. I quickly looked up to see if anyone was coming. My heart was racing, the fear pumping fast as I couldn't get caught. Where would he keep Black Dranzer?
'He is in this room, keep searching.'
I moved to the lockers on the left, sliding open the top and found a bunch of folders. My eyes scrutinised them when I caught the names I was familiar with.
"Tala? Bryan? Ian? Spencer? Boris has kept their profile folders here? But why?" I wondered, thinking whether I should read them. It seemed to invade their privacy and Boris must have hid these from me for good reason. Besides I knew about Tala's past and Bryan's. It was Ian's and Spencer's that was the mystery. I hesitated before brushing my fingers over the 2 folders, biting my bottom lip. Perhaps I should take them with me and return them later? My eyes suddenly caught a silver little box stuffed in the corner under the folders. I dropped the folders and picked up the box, feeling a little rattle inside.
"Could this be?..." I whispered to myself.
It wasn't locked which to my surprise came as a shock. Boris wasn't so reckless as to leave this open unless he was going to use it soon. My eyes widened and I sucked in a gasp to see the item inside.
Black Dranzer sat in all its glory giving me the shivers when I felt the darkness and intensity radiating from it. But something was wrong.
"What happened to the beyblade? All that remains of Black Dranzer is the chip. Where is his remaining body?" I mumbled, narrowing my eyes as I stared at the chip that looked completely harmless.
'That explains his lack in strength. But something else too. I can feel only his source of power; something has changed which isn't his blade.'
I stared at the chip in awe. Neither the less, this chip had sucked in the countless innocent spirits. I would somehow have to pry them out and it would mean taking Black Dranzer away from here... I quickly picked up the chip in my fingers and was about to shove the box back inside the locker when a voice startled me.
"Put that back."
The box fell to the ground with a shrilling thump. My heart jumped out of my chest as my eyes widened on turning around and seeing those cold blue eyes. Tala stood strongly at the door way with a more than furious glare imprinted on his face, his hand holding the door open wide before he stepped inside, shutting it entirely. I stepped back, feeling the painful feeling inside me, attacking my heart. Seeing such brutality in his eyes again was worse than seeing him injured.
"T-Tala..." I stammered eyes unable to leave his face.
His cold eyes narrowed making me wince.
"I-I was just-"
"I said put it back. You have no idea what you're doing" he harshly snapped.
I glared, feeling anger spark. "I know what I'm doing! If you have forgotten Tala, I am trying to help everyone here which includes you and stop Boris from taking over though of course...you had decided...to aid him" I looked away, unable to look at him on speaking of his betrayal.
There was silence for a moment before he spoke again.
"There is nothing you can do. Now put Black Dranzer back" he demanded more coldly.
I jerked my head up. "I refuse."
He growled. "Don't test my patience Juliette. You don't know what Boris will do to you if he finds him missing."
"You suddenly care for my well being? That's rich! You cannot begin to decipher what I have already endured to this stage. Let Boris do as he will, it won't stop me from freeing the stolen spirits that were wrongfully taken!" I cried back with pride.
His glare darkened. His eyes became ice. "Then I guess I'll have to stop you."
I double backed, eyes widening as my mouth opened to gasp but nothing came out. I was far too astounded and horrified with his reply. He couldn't be serious could he have been? While staring into his icy hues I could sense no fragment of empty threats or false pretence. He was serious, he was really serious...
"Nani...(1) What has happened to you Tala? Why are you doing this?" I demanded with a cry.
He didn't reply, instead his eyes closed halfway. His arm moved, sliding into his pocket and pulling out his blade, showing it out.
"If you want answers..." he began, eyes opening wider now.
"...then battle me for them."
I sucked in a gasp, feeling like I just swallowed a rock. My heart dropped. Did Tala just challenge me? For something as trivial as this? It was like Kai challenging me all over again. How could Tala do this? I felt tears prick my eyes as I clutched my hands at my chest.
"You...You cannot be serious" I whispered out weakly, body trembling.
He showed no sign of objection and I collapsed to the ground.
"I thought...I thought we were different. I thought you were different..." I pathetically murmured, eyes looking at the ground still refusing to believe this was happening.
"This is the real world. If you want something then you should be prepared to fight for it. I'm willing to do that to be the best. Now that Kai is gone, that gives me my title back. You have to understand that."
"Understand?" I whispered quietly. I looked up bitterly glaring at him like I never had before, I stood up slowly.
"Understand?! How can I be prepared to understand something that never made sense? How could you choose to stay by my side and wish to stop Boris only to betray me later? And what about-" I stopped myself, feeling heat rush to my cheeks as tears were on the edge of my eyelids as my eyes were filled with emotion as they shifted up to stare into his blue eyes and back down.
"I thought we...we shared something" I finished, timidly looking away but still feeling hurt.
Tala's glare darkened. "We could never share something like that, not with our lives."
Shocked, I looked up, mouth open. I saw an unfriendly smirk appear on his lips.
"Hn, I don't think I want to either."
Bullet shot. It was the last attack to break me completely as I shattered to a million pieces. As I remained silent, the tears fell, my insides ached and I turned numb.
"Now put Black Dranzer back, or you fight me and if you win you can take him and I'll even rebel against Boris. If I win, you put Black Dranzer back and forget about stopping Boris" he offered.
The voice was a mere echo in my ears, still lingering over what he had said about not wanting to fall into a shared bond... My ears perked when hearing he would rebel against Boris. I glanced up at him in dread to see him smirk.
"Of course, if I win, I also get to take Artemis for myself."
"Never!" I jumped up in complete horror and bewilderment. How could Tala ever lay such a deal?! Steal Artemis away? Even after I had confided in him to keep her a secret and also how important she was to me! This couldn't be Tala! The Tala I knew would never had considered this whether he was the cold Tala from the beginning or not.
His eyes narrowed. "Let us go then."
He walked out the room. I hesitated, shaking from what he just said. I was still trying to process his words. There was so much at stake here. If I won I'd win Tala's support back and be able to release the spirits from Black Dranzer, but if I lost...which seemed more likely, I'd lose Artemis. Tala was the strongest blader here and the defending champion, what could I match against such power?
'He may have power Juliette but you have faith and you have me. We must teach Tala the lesson here, I'll do my best to keep us in this battle my dear Juliette.'
I clutched her tight. 'No. I will never agree to this. I will not act recklessly, not like I did with Kai.'
'You have more power than you think Juliette. You yet to unlock it and this is an opportunity to do so. Think at what is at stake here.'
I gave it a long and hard thought before deciding to follow Tala out the room and into darkness.
We returned to the same room where Kai and I had battled, bringing horribly new memories that had me fearing this battle's outcome. I glanced round the room and immediately fell upon the space where Tala and I shared our first kiss. I blushed at the memory but it pained on recalling it seeing as the circumstances had changed greatly than they had been since then. I looked away with a wince.
"Let's do this" Tala exclaimed, standing up on the edge of the dish watching me with wary eyes.
I hesitated, feeling like I was hyperventilating and struggling to breathe. I couldn't go ahead with this, it was like suicide. I could lose Artemis!
'You will not lose me.'
Perhaps. Perhaps it may be another unexpected tie between the two of us. I glanced at Tala forlornly only to receive a cold look in return that swiped me of my confidence. I looked down at my feet, pulling out Artemis. Could I do this? Yes. Yes I could. I clutched her tight, placing a serious and confident face on and standing up straight before taking my place up on the dish.
"I never thought we would be in such a situation. But it seems we have no other choice."
I set up my launcher and aimed, taking into considering of what Tala taught me that night. My heart pounded furiously. Tala aimed his pistol launcher which was rather intimidating.
"3...2...1...Let it rip!" Tala cried out.
We both pulled and both blades flew into the center of the dish resulting in a huge wave to hit back on us and our blades bounced back and separated. I gasped in amazement. My launch had really strengthened and even Tala looked a little less than surprised but it was noticeable on his face.
"All right Artemis, we can do this" I mumbled quietly, gazing at Tala who kept his eyes on the blades, no expression bore his face. He looked awfully calm which unnerved me.
"You still are an important part of me Tala, I won't lose you so quickly" I called out confidently, catching him off guard because his head snapped up in surprise at my words. I softly gazed into his eyes hoping to find some answers. We both fixated on each other for a brief moment before he growled.
"Wolborg!"
My eyes widened when the dazzling blue wolf rose from his blade, breaking out an impressive growl and bringing cold winds and icy temperatures with him.
"Careful Artemis!"
'You must use attack that we had done so last time.'
I felt myself turn rigid. 'No, doing that almost killed us both, I cannot let us repeat it' I warned quickly.
'We must!'
Wolborg attacked Artemis violently; I could hardly lay a scratch on him. I worried frantically.
"Why are you doing this Tala?" I called out, voice nearly breaking.
Tala said nothing but shot out a hand. "Fight now. Answers later. Attack Wolborg!"
I watched in horror as my blade was slammed roughly and fell against the rim of the dish making me catch my breath.
"Stop whimpering and fight back!" Tala exclaimed bitterly.
I jerked my head up to see him looking frustrated before I looked back down to see my blade on its last legs. I hadn't a chance against Tala!
'Do not give up yet! I will fight this battle with you.'
I was thunderstruck feeling warmth. I smiled weakly, closing my eyes. "Yes, I always have Artemis by my side. I won't give her up for anything. Thank you my friend" I spoke aloud.
Tala frowned but glanced at the dish to see his blade go forth to attack my blade head on. I opened my eyes and demanded my attack.
"All right Artemis, let us do this!" I called out. Upon this action, a blinding light erupted from my blade and Artemis began rising from the center chip in all her glory.
I was still amazed in seeing her so openly and face to face in such proximity. I could even see Tala being amazed as we both shielded our eyes from the blinding light with our hands. I watched as my blade gained momentum and began speeding towards Wolborg, a bright light surrounding the green blade.
"Show him what we got!"
Artemis extended out her arms and the leafy vines that encircled her arms stretched out and grew, heading towards Tala's wolf, wrapping him around tightly, caging the beast. Tala's eyes widened at this and he growled.
"He cannot move, now go forth and attack!" I cried out.
As Artemis launched her arrow I was looking forward and feeling satisfied to a hope for victory. Instead I felt my stomach drop on seeing Tala smirk. Something was wrong.
"You think weak twigs will trap my Wolborg? You're wrong! Now Wolborg!" He shot out, surprising me.
I watched in horror as Wolborg rose, breaking free out of the vines, growling out loudly with brutality. I gasped on seeing him glow more than ever and leapt at Artemis, our blades clashed in a thunder clap and a bright light engulfed the room, blinding our sight. It hit me and I felt myself falling back onto my back on the ground. When the light began to clear I glanced up, struggling to move to see Tala standing strong just as he was, looking down triumphantly at the dish. My heart stopped. My eyes shot to the dish to see Wolborg spinning perfectly in the center and my blade was now lying beside Tala's feet, completely motionless.
"Iyaa! (2)" I cried, breaking out into tears and felt numb and horrified. I was going to lose her! I lost her! I lost Artemis!
'For...Forgive me...Juliette' Artemis' weak voice echoed in my mind.
The horror hit me like a bunch of boulders and I began to pull myself up when Tala called Wolborg back and looked down at my blade. He was going to take her away! I reached out my hand, heart pounding but before I said one word, I froze.
Tala bent down, picking up my defeated blade and stared at it in his hands in silence. His cold brooding blue eyes narrowed and his face seemed to soften a tiny level. He then began walking towards me and stopped. I picked myself up, groaning when the aches on my body hit me. Too awestruck, I stared into his eyes. He held out Artemis. Too shocked at his actions I glanced up at him.
"T-Tala...what..." I stumbled out, eyes unable to believe what I was seeing.
He reached to grab my hand, feeling the immediate electricity run through me when our skins touched. He then placed Artemis into my hands and let go. I watched in awe and grateful eyes that were immensely thankful that Tala had given Artemis back to me. Even after I lost... Tala closed his eyes, turning his head to the side.
"Do you see how easily Artemis can be taken away from you? If you want to fight Boris then you might as well sacrifice her. Boris will not let you get away clean free like he usually does if he finds out you're trying to foil his plans" he informed, turning away altogether.
My heart leapt, feeling warmth that he still deep down...had cared about me.
"Don't think I'm doing this for you. I won't let you ruin what I have been fighting for my whole life" he coldly added.
I flinched, having all remaining hopes and warmth shatter away into mist. My heart ached.
"I...I suppose you want Black Dranzer now?" I shifted my eyes down to the ground.
"Hn, I already have him."
Shocked, I looked up to see him holding the chip in his fingers. How did he manage to take it from me? Perhaps when he reached for my hand and gave Artemis into my hands he must have quickly pulled out the chip from my waistcoat pocket. I looked down, eyes shadowed by my hair.
"So this is the end?" I mumbled out quietly. "You give up?"
I looked up when he didn't reply eyeing him curiously. He didn't turn around which made me feel nervous. With no answer I got the message, clutching Artemis tight and putting her safely into my pocket and brushed past Tala without another word, leaving behind any remaining hope I had for him and whatever we shared, that too was gone.
"What's wrong Juliette? You don't look so good."
"Hm? Oh...Sorry it's nothing Juan, don't worry" I mumbled back, placing the thermometer on the desk and grabbing a stethoscope and walking back over to him.
I avoided looking into his amber eyes knowing I'll probably spill everything to him if I glanced even once at his pleading eyes. I edged his shoulders so he would show me his back as I placed the end on his back.
"Breathe in."
After I finished checking his respiratory system I went to grab a penicillin injection before approaching him. As I rolled up his sleeve I gently wiped his area of skin before piercing in the needle into his flesh. Juan was hesitant at first in taking the drug and this was fully understandable. I assured him and showed him the paperwork and so forth to convince him it was safe. Juan had a growing throat infection that I picked up from Cole and had immediately sent for Juan to be sent here. I placed a small plaster over the area before rubbing his arm.
"That should be fine. If it exceeds in pain then let me know right away, all right?" I spoke aloud whilst throwing away the used syringe.
"You cannot even look me in the eye Sakurai-san, I know something is wrong" his worrying tone replied.
I froze, hesitating. How could I tell him that I no longer had the strength to fight against Boris. Tala made it clear that he would do anything to stop me and had even obstructed my plan to free the stolen spirits. I couldn't look into Juan's eyes and tell him that. It would crush them all. They relied on me so heavily to free them from Boris.
"Onee-san..."
I jerked my head up on hearing him call me that. I faced him confidently and regretted doing so because his amber eyes were more than pleading and looking dejected. I sighed, approaching him and taking hold of his hands and looked him in the eye.
"Juan... You know I care about you all don't you?" I began quietly.
He nodded, looking slightly confused and wary.
"I...I'm really trying Juan, I tried so hard to stop Boris, to free you all from this suffering but...it just seems complications keep changing my path" I looked away in shame, feeling guilty for letting them down.
"You don't have to feel guilty onee-san, stopping Boris is almost impossible. You tried your best didn't you?" He softly replied.
I nodded but sighed and looked up to see his face holding strong, trying to keep positive. It hurt to look at his face. I embraced him.
"Forgive me" I let out a small sob, shutting my eyes in the process. "I'm as useless as they come."
I felt Juan shake his head in my neck. "Please don't feel bad, it was a big job for you. We are just glad you are here to look after us" Juan beamed when he pulled back and gazed at my face meaningfully.
I wanted to believe him but I merely forced a smile knowing I wished I could have done more. I said I would. Why was I giving up because Tala had challenged me? There may not be much I can do but perhaps... I could get a hold of the Bladebreakers during the matches. Yes. That was my only shot now. If the Demolition Boys were going to abide by Boris, I really had no other strong ally to help me. I'd have to speak to Kai and perhaps get some help from the BBA to stop Boris.
Boris and the Demolition Boys seemed to have gone off solo for the remainder of the day. By evening, I had admitted to Keiji that my chances of stopping Boris were near to none. He warned me to be careful, Boris was suspicious of my behaviour and wasn't too happy about my involvement with the boys. Tala seemed to have become Boris' personal favourite even after he had Tala face the ultimate punishment. I frowned.
As I left the infirmary it was turning 10 and the halls were empty strangely. I would have seen at least a third of the students going to their dorms at this time but it seemed there were none in sight. As I walked past the training rooms I found each of them empty and I hadn't seen any guards either. Where did everyone go?
"Power has been restored to the control room."
"All systems are go."
"Back online, awaiting your orders sir!"
What? What was going on? I peeked into the security room to see the staff at the computers watching the screen where a bunch of students stood. What were they doing? Boris was down there too.
"Raise platform" came his voice on the intercom.
I watched curiously as the floor beneath them rose up, sealing them inside a cart. I caught the colour of red hair and immediately held my gasp. The Demolition Boys were there too? Where was Boris taking them?! I had to know! I jumped into the room startling the staff.
"Hey! You're not supposed to be in here!"
I flinched, looking at the screen to see a large helicopter take away the cart with them inside and flying out into the night.
"Where are they going? Where is Boris taking them?!" I demanded.
The guard leaned back looking a little shocked and nervous before glancing at his co-worker for help.
"Sir had specifically told us that you are not to know. It is none of your concern now go to your dorm" another confident speaker replied.
I glared. "I demand to know where he is taking my patients, if it is somewhere where they are to be tortured then-"
"This mission is none of your concern Miss Sakurai, please leave else we shall have to report to Boris" another threatened.
I coiled back, frowning. I didn't want yet another reason for Boris to complain and use as an incentive to call my father. If I did it again I'd be sent home surely, I had breached far too many warnings and clean getaways.
"Very well."
I walked out and went straight to my dorm, curling up in my bed after getting changed, holding Artemis in my palm.
'Where has he taken them Artemis?'
'It is far, I cannot get a complete trace but for what reason I do not know. Perhaps to another facility. You should rest, when they return you can find some answers.'
I sighed, wondering what they could have possibly gone for. Closing my eyes I fell into darkness.
I woke up realising I was late.
"Oh no" I worriedly murmured, checking the time. It was past 11am. Had I been asleep for that long?
I jumped out of bed when realising that the boys may be back and quickly went to get showered and dressed. I grabbed only a sandwich on my way to the infirmary before hurriedly packing my briefcase and bolting out once again and crashing into someone.
"Woah, hey, where's the fire?" a humoured voice asked.
I immediately jerked back and bowed. "Gomenasai! (3) I should pay more attention" I apologised quickly. I glanced up to see Cole smirking casually.
"I'll say, you almost gave me a black eye. So what's the 112? You look like your having a heart attack."
I took a deep breath and straightened myself up.
"Did you go with Boris last night?" I asked, staring him in the eye.
He lost his amusement and ruffled his dark hair. "No. I stayed behind."
"So you know where they went?" I urged on.
He sighed. "Honestly, yeah I do. They were going to meet the Bladebreakers."
I double backed, eyes widening.
"What? Why?"
He turned serious all of a sudden which had me worried at once. Just what exactly was Boris planning now? Cole placed his arm down and frowned.
"You won't like it but we were supposed to take them by surprise and launch an attack. Boris is sending the Demolition Boys to attack them while they are wide open. The rest I don't know."
I swallowed the lump in my throat. He planned such a low and dirty trick? To strike the Bladebreakers when they were vulnerable. They wouldn't even see it coming! And to think...all of them obeyed Boris. And Tala too... I looked down at the ground.
"It's going haywire, I don't think there's much any of us can do anymore unless you're part of the Demolition Boys" Cole sounded aggravated at this making me glance up.
"Do not worry, I won't give up yet" I assured with a confident nod. His amber eyes gleamed and he smiled.
"I knew you wouldn't be the giving up type" he winked cheerfully before walking off. "Training calls, and you're late Sakurai-san!" He called over his shoulder, reminding me I was running late.
As I rushed off to the dungeons I began to think of what they were doing now. I couldn't believe they all agreed to this unfair plan just a day before the finals. It was something Boris would do but not some of the students I knew. He was somehow recruiting them to obey him again, possibly using the idea of power once again. He certainly managed to draw in Tala. My expression saddened as I gazed at the arm of my patient who I had been tending. He still confused me. He won the battle yet he didn't take Artemis. He told me to stay away because it was futile to stop Boris. He says he wants power yet...he doesn't seem to hurt me physically like he used to so somewhere deep down, the Tala I knew was still there. Something was pulling him away. The boy looked at me in wonder, seeming a little annoyed that I was stuck in another world instead of properly caring to him.
"If you're quite done, I want to go" he grimly hissed.
I immediately snapped out of my thoughts and flinched. "I'm s-sorry" I replied quickly.
The boy merely grunted, pulling himself up and leaving the cell half groaning from his injuries. I tilted my chin down in shame. I was so worked up over what was happening with Boris that I completely ignored the well being of the other students. Sighing I got up and began to pack up my things.
"Finally, I can't wait to see Spencer crush those Bladebreakers. The finals will go off with a bang all right" a voice snickered.
My ears perked up and I found myself listening to the conversation.
"They just returned and of course they were successful. Those pathetic Bladebreakers are down one man" a sinister voice cackled bitterly.
My heart lurched and I leapt out the cell to startle the 2 students talking. One happened to be the boy I was treating just now. He glared upon seeing me.
"What did you say?" I repeated eagerly, heart pounding and I prayed my ears deceived me.
The boy smirked back in return. "So you heard huh? Why don't you go see for yourself? We are sure to win the championships again this year." They both snickered before leaving me in the darkness.
This... This couldn't be! Did they really hurt one of the Bladebreakers? If so, who? Which unfortunate victim suffered at the hands of Boris? I rushed back inside the cell, grabbing my briefcase and rushed back out, heading to the main Demolition Boys training room. Panting out of breath I found them practising alone, Tala spectator of a match between Ian and Bryan. I stood at the doorway unable to say anything when I saw the dark blue falcon rise up. Ian smirked and a spirit rose from his blade. I sucked in a gasp.
"That... That isn't Ian's bit-beast" I mumbled, eyes wide open at the large pink turtle that had just risen from Ian's blade.
Ian snickered darkly, making my attention snap to him.
"My new bit-beast seems to fit in perfectly well" he announced.
"New...bit-beast?" I murmured to myself quietly.
"That's Max down for the count. Now that we have his bit-beast, Spencer, it's your duty to take down whoever they send tomorrow" Tala ordered.
I froze. My stomach dropped. They...They stole Max's bit-beast from him?!
"What have you done?!" I cried out, running forwards, infuriated at them all.
They all were surprised to see me enter with such an outburst before each darkly glared at me making me flinch. I stared at the turtle that had belonged to the cheerful blonde I had once met and felt guilt and disgust.
"How could you steal away Max's bit-beast like that? I thought Kai's role was bad enough but now you are following in the same footsteps. You plan to steal Kai's too? And Tyson and Ray?" I accused, feeling tears prick my eyes.
"Leave well enough alone. I advise you to go back to your dorm" Bryan intercepted.
I felt another stab of betrayal. Not Bryan... Why? Why had I suddenly lost them all? I glanced at Tala, pleading with poignant eyes to help and give back Max's bit-beast. He only responded with a cold glare.
"Bryan is right. This isn't your business any longer. We have finals to prepare for so you need to leave."
If my broken heart could get any worse than it was now torn into smaller pieces. Silent tears fell on hearing those words coming from Tala and I found myself struggling to gasp for air. I glanced at each of them who now folded their arms simultaneously before glaring. They were no longer the friends I had. Keeping my head down I turned on my heel, leaving the room. But before I left I glanced back.
"I didn't expect any of you to give up so easily and to act so lowly... I suppose power means more to you than anything else."
I heard the same blading noises last night knowing it was Tala practising. I refused to go- knowing it would be futile to even see him. He wouldn't wish to see me. I sat alone in the cold corner, huddled up; wishing that perhaps going home would be the best idea right now. There was nothing more I could do here, my only plan to talk to the Bladebreakers seemed less than likely now seeing as I was strictly barred from going out, I didn't think it involved the Biovolt Stadium but I hadn't been able to ask. Boris will surely be suspicious.
The morning came with the finals here. Spencer was taking the opening match, obviously holding the most tactical methods. I wasn't sure of their strategy but it seemed that finishing their opponent quickly and stealing their bit-beasts was the way to go. I dreaded it every time I thought of them stealing spirits. I never would have thought they would stoop so low. It pained me inside.
"You wanted to ask me something Miss Juliette?" Boris' snide voice echoed.
I swallowed, still feeling more than nervous in his presence. I fidgeted with my hands, keeping my eyes away from looking into his.
"W-Well... I was wondering if...I could accompany you and the Demolition Boys to the match..." I finally murmured out.
There was silence. I dared to glance up only to see Boris looking warily. "And what would be your use there? As you know your father has pointed out that you are not to leave this abbey without permission."
"I know that is why I am asking you. I have never attended a single match myself and am rather curious as to see how they turn out, if you will allow me, I'd like to experience it..." I nervously bit my lip, exhaling that I managed to get it out.
Boris frowned before a smirk extended across his lips. "I'm afraid under these circumstances, you cannot accompany us today. I shall have a word with your father and see if you can join us in tomorrow's match. How is that?"
Tomorrow? But...that gave me even less time to stop him. Or perhaps he knew this and was stalling it out. I eyed him with narrowed eyes before nodding. It was the best I could hope for at the moment.
"Thank you."
Boris turned around to the intercom.
"I want the Demolition Boys assembled and ready to leave. Await in the assembly hall this instant!" He growled through the speaker that radiated throughout the entire abbey.
I left the room, heading over there myself to see the 4 team members standing in a line, blankly staring into nothing. I spotted some Level 5 trainee's as well as 4's. I swallowed upon seeing Demetri there standing beside his comrade and followed by Keiji. I rushed over there, glancing at the 4 boys I used to hold a bond with.
Keiji, upon seeing me lit up and smiled.
"You made it. I heard from Cole you overslept yesterday" he teased, keeping his tone quiet.
I blushed, embarrassed. "I...I guess I was tired" I weakly replied.
He chuckled lightly before sighing. "I guess this is it huh? End of the line..."
My face fell. It felt like the end, it really did but I still had hope. I wouldn't give up.
"I won't give up yet" I confidently stated.
He looked surprised before looking at me admirably.
"So you are plotting against Boris" a dark familiar voice sneered making me crumble at once in fear. My pulse raced as I turned to face the haunting image of Demetri before me. I took a step back, swallowing the fear that drenched my throat.
"Back off" Keiji interceded, stepping forwards to my side.
The other students seemed to sparse and watch as Demetri stood proudly, smirking grimly making me feel uneasy. I felt nauseous.
"I'm not doing anything to her, am I not allowed to say hi?" He grinned.
"Hi my foot, just stay away from her" Keiji defended.
I grabbed his shoulder. I didn't want there to be a fight here so I boosted my confidence and stepped forwards taking a deep breath. It seemed to delight Demetri because his smirk broadened.
"What do you want to say Demetri?" I asked, feeling the shaky tone in my voice. It was evident I was afraid. That I admitted.
"You. Trying to be the good little girl and foil Boris' plan. You really did a good job on putting on pretence, I must clap to that!" He exclaimed, mocking a clap blistering the silence in the room. I flinched.
"I'm not pretending nor am I planning anything. I'm here for the benefit of those who are innocent here" I defended proudly.
He glared now, losing all playfulness and darkened his features making me swallow.
"I'm sick of seeing your fake acts and pretences. I know what you're trying to do. I'll make sure Boris finds out first hand that we have yet another traitor in our midst!" He pointed a finger at me like a dagger.
I merely blinked. "You can go ahead and tell Boris. Though it isn't true, he may be happy to know what you have done to me. We'll see who is the one that is smiling after that" I threatened, shocked that I could even go down that state.
Demetri looked like death. "You little-" his hand suddenly lashed out that my eyes widened when it stopped just an inch away from my cheek. I gasped in shock. Everyone was silent. A hand had lashed out, grabbing Demetri's wrist so tightly I could see the strength going into it. My eyes fell to the man beside me as my emerald eyes met aqua blue, glaring in rage.
Tala edged up closer, twisting Demetri's arm behind his back so fast that if you blinked you would have missed it. I was thunderstruck at this action, not believing it was happening. But right there, before my eyes, Tala defended me. My heart skipped a beat.
"Just what were you trying to do?" Tala hissed into Demetri's ear. He was now growling in pain from Tala's iron clad grip.
"Let me go!" He snarled.
"I warned you" he mumbled quietly with bitterness.
In a flash, Demetri was tossed to the side just as Boris entered looking less than happy on witnessing what just happened.
"What is going on here?! Tala! Fall back into line!" He demanded.
"Yes sir" came Tala's robot reply.
His eyes fell on me and I winced, giving him a meaningful stare back in gratitude. His eyes turned cold and narrowed before he walked back into line with the others. Boris eyed me suspiciously and then to Demetri who was now cursing to himself and rubbing his arm and shoulder.
"Today marks the beginning of a new Biovolt era! We shall crush those Bladebreakers and bring victory and nothing else! Is that understood?" Boris announced.
"Yes sir." The four boys replied in unison while the rest of the students cheered.
Boris gave me one final smirk; something tells me...he has planned something that would affect the Bladebreakers somehow. I may not be going with them but I would witness it in the security room. I gave one final glance at Tala who had been watching me. I felt my heart ache, seeing him like a robot and obeying Boris with no remorse. His actions just now made no sense either... I guess only the next 2 days would tell...
(1) What
(2) No
(3) Sorry
AHHH. Okay too filled with excitement. Anyone expect that battle with Tala and Juliette? I bet no one suspected he would give Artemis back to her! ;) if you did then you're a genius lol. I feel sad writing their relationship now because it's fallen apart :( but it shall get better! I won't tell you when ;) Anyway, good chapter? bad chapter? REVIEW and tell me!
Allrighty, now the next chapter I won't say much of but that a hell of a lot of things are revealed in it. I think nearly everything lol. YES the package included! GOD I love chapter 17 ^^ I'm so excited, I need to get round to editing it and perfecting it but I have coursework BUT I should post this weekend if not earlier. That depends on YOU guys if you review! It really does encourage me :D I spent all of last night until 5am writing chapter 19 up even though I had classes early in the morning! SEE! Prepare yourselves lol.
Thank you SO SO SO much everyone who got me to over 100 reviews for this story :') you all are amazing and the best! Love you awesome people!
Take care and Adios! xx