Chapter 3: The Dragon King vs The White Stallion

Coloured smoke fired across several venues in Japan as today was an exciting day for bladers as Gingka and Akuma are battling. Majority of the crowd favoured the Pegasus blader after his win at the Battle Bladers tournament and saving the beyblading world from the likes of Dark Nebula and Ryuga.

That said, it didn't mean Akuma was without fans of his own as his quick rise to stardom earned him a ton of fans cheering him on today. But neither blader paid attention to their respective fandoms as all focus was on each other.

What's up folks! Welcome to the last official day of the BWCS qualifiers. If you're not watching today's match then something is wrong with ya cause today we have a dream fight lined up as the champion himself Gingka will go against his fearsome and dominating teammate Akuma in an exhilarating exhibition match that's sure to keep us all on the edge of our seats. SO DON'T YOU DARE MISS IT! DJ hyping up the crowd.

Inside Gingka's locker room were himself, Madoka, Masamune, Kenta, Yu and Benkei as Gingka could barely sit still. Come on Gingka, it's only a few minutes left till your fight, Madoka trying to make her friend relax.

I can't! I wanna battle now, finally I get to battle and with a strong blader no less. I don't even know how to relax in a moment like this. This is going to be an awesome battle! Gingka stated.

Yeah, Gingka, I know you're gonna win today, Kenta praised his friend. You bet, Kenta, you know Pegasus and I are going to give it our very best, isn't that right Pegasus? Gingka said.

Oh this is going to be awesome but don't you dare lose today Gingka! Kyouya will never forgive you if you don't, Benkei reminded.

Kyouya… Gingka murmured as he was reminded of yesterday. He couldn't believe Kyouya, of all people, didn't want to be on the same team.

Man, I can't believe Kyouya left the team. I know he and Gingka have a rivalry but I didn't think he wanted to battle Gingka so badly that he wanted to battle him in the BWCS, Kenta letting the group have his opinion.

That's Kyouya for ya, never settling for anything til he crushes his opponents, Benkei said. It actually makes a lot of sense, Madoka commented.

What do you mean Madoka? Kenta asked. Think about it, ever since they first battled, Kyouya has always lost against Gingka and he didn't get to battle Gingka at Battle Bladers. If he had joined Team Japan, then he would never have gotten a chance and I don't think Kyouya is the type of guy who would share being number one in the world with his greatest rival.

True but still it sucks, Kyouya such a stronger blader, with him on the team, I thought we had a strong chance to win it all, Kenta complained. You saying, we can't win without him Kenta? Gingka interrogated.

Ah, I mean, no, I mean I still think you guys have a great chance but y'know… I'm sorry Gingka, I didn't mean it like that, Kenta apologised. It's alright Kenta, I knew what you meant.

Which team do you think he'll end up joining? Yu asked the group. Good question Yu, Madoka said. Can't be the Chinese Team, right? They already have their team, Benkei stated.

Yes, that leaves umm… still too many teams left and not all countries and continents have decided their teams yet, Madoka trying to figure out where Kyouya could go.

Doesn't matter which team he goes to, once we battle I'm going to win! Gingka claimed. We'll just focus on winning til that day comes.

Hi Mumu, what do you think? Mumu? Yu asked but Masamune just sat in the corner looking frustrated.

Masamune, I know things didn't go the way you wanted but you're on the team, your dreams of becoming number one in the world are alive, right guys? Madoka tried to cheer him up.

AHHHH! But what does that mean when I'm a sub. I SHOULD be battling out there today, not Gingka. I should have been battling for the third spot against Tsubasa! Masamune ranted.

I'm sorry Masamune, I wished I could have repaired Striker in time but the damage is just too great for a rush job, Madoka explained. Yeah, well thanks to you I can't battle, Masamune blames.

HEY! That's uncalled for Masamune, Benkei defending his friend. Yeah, she's doing all she can to get back in time for the BWCS, if you want to blame someone, blame yourself Masamune, Kenta joined the conversation.

What did you just say?! Masamune asked angrily. Yeah, it's your fault Masamune, if you didn't let Striker fall into the Bahamut's trap then maybe you would have actually battled today mister number one blader in the world, Kenta explained.

Oh yeah, who won between the two of us and actually got into the team, huh

?! Masamune replied with his own dig.

ENOUGH! Masamune, I know you're frustrated and I'm sorry I couldn't repair Striker in time but you should have stopped Striker before it even happened. Masamune, do you realise how fortunate you are? Madoka asked.

I am? Masamune clearly is not getting her point.

You qualified for the finals, out of the thousands of bladers who entered and you're getting to enter the BWCS. Yes, you're not a regular member but you're still a valuable asset to the team. If Gingka, Akuma or Tsubasa can't battle then everyone puts their trust in you! Madoka said.

I… I didn't think like that… I'm sorry Madoka. Masamune apologised. It's all good Masamune, I promise to make Striker ready in time for the BWCS. Madoka vowed.

Suddenly the door knocked as a personnel entered and informed Gingka, it was time to go.

Alright, wish me luck guys! Gingka said. You can do it Gingka, you can do this like you always do, Go get him buddy/Gingi show him! Everyone except Masamune cheered him on.

Gingka wait! Masamune asked. What's up Masamune? Please win it for me, okay? I don't want someone else to do my fights but til Striker is back and since you're battling when I should've, it's only right you don't lose today. Also be careful, don't let him destroy Pegasus, Masamune warned.

Gingka nodded and headed out.

As both bladers headed for the stadium, both could hear the cheers from inside the tunnels. The arena was sold out and some special guests including Chiyun, Mei-Mei, Tsubasa and even Kyouya were there.

Wow, there are even more people today, ain't this cool Chiyun? Mei-Mei asked her comrade. Focus, we're here to analyse, Chiyun stated.

Gingka… Tsubasa murmured.

Gingka, don't you dare lose today, Kyouya said as he glared at his rival.

Gingka, we love you! Akuma, you're so cool! Gingka, marry me! Akuma, please sign my ** various fans yelled as they haven't been this excited in a very long time.

Ok ladies and gentlemens, we have waited long enough, please let me introduce today's fighters! First up we have with his amazing willpower to overcome any obstacles in his way and the one who automatically qualified for the Japan Team, GINGKA!

On the other side we have; he might have been unknown before this tournament started but he's clearly shown with his destructive power and crazy attitude, he's not someone to be trifled with! AKUMA!

Kyouya, buddy, you're here?! Benkei was surprised he was still in Japan. Hi Kyouya, you're here to cheer on Gingka too? Kenta asked.

Tsh, as if. He better show me he hasn't slacked off otherwise my win won't mean anything, Kyouya stated.

Come on, Gingie! Show him who's the boss! Yu shouted as Gingka walked up to the stadium.

He looks so focused today doesn't he, Madoka? Kenta asked. Yeah, he hasn't battled at all since the tournament started so he's eager to show what he can do but I'm worried… Madoka responded.

Why's that? Kenta asked when Masamune answered for her. Akuma will be toying around before he destroys Pegasus, that's what, Masamune explained furiously as he disliked anyone who enjoys destroying other people's beys.

No way, Gingka isn't that weak to let Pegasus get destroyed, Kenta defended. Madoka said otherwise with her worried expression. Not you too Madoka!

Come on, he won against Ryuga, it's not his first time battling a left-rotating beyblade and besides surely Akuma won't try to destroy Pegasus this close to the tournament, right?

I dunno Kenta, Gingka isn't the one to hold back no matter the situation and Akuma isn't either, the mechanic replied. Just then they saw the aforementioned blader and flinched for a moment as he looked possessed with his wicked smile, looking ready to destroy anything in his path.

Seriously? What's up with his attitude change?! Masamune said. Meanwhile inside the booth, Hikaru felt her trauma creeping up on her.

We may be teammates Akuma but I won't lose today, Gingka declared. Hihihi, if you say so, Akuma responded.

Enough with the chatter, it's time to battle folks! DJ interrupted. 3,2,1 LET IT RIP Everyone in the arena yelled.

WHAT! Kyouya and the others couldn't believe what Akuma had just done. Instead of launching Bahamut with his launcher, he just threw his beyblade into the stadium.

What is he doing!? Benkei questioned.

What's wrong Gingka? Hit me, Akuma begged. I don't know what you're planning but me and Pegasus never hide! Pegasus attack! Pegasus went for a big hit that surely was going to send Bahamut flying out of the stadium but just before the white stallion connected its attack, Bahamut angled himself to minimise the impact and gracefully dodged out of the way.

Well would you look at that folks. In a surprising twist of events, Akuma launched his bey without a launcher yet is keeping up with the fully powered Pegasus, what trickery is this?! DJ commented.

Madoka hurried to open her laptop and started analysing Bahamut's stats. How does he do it? Madoka everyone except Kyouya questioned. Give me a sec guys! No… way… Madoka couldn't believe what the stats were saying.

What? Come and tell us already! Yu's impatience was running out. Bahamut's rotation speed isn't slowing down, it's increasing every time they touch.

How! The only beyblade that does that-

L-Drago, Ryusei simply said.

Director, how is it possible? Hikaru was getting more afraid by the minute as Akuma reminded her more and more of her instigator.

Akuma, don't tell me you're using the dark power? Gingka hesitantly asked.

Dark power? Why would I rely on such gimmick! THIS IS MINE AND BAHAMUT'S POWER ALONE! HAHAHAH, Akuma laughed as Bahamut was spinning faster and faster.

The sheer acceleration sent shockwaves around the stadium, taking everyone by surprise. AHH, that hurts! Benkei complained.

Bahamut, show him your power! Akuma commanded as his bey dashed with great power causing a smoke explosion as they collided.

Pegasus! Gingka gasped as he tried to see if his bey was ok. Like Eagle, Pegasus' crash landing caused the stadium to crack.

Don't stop Bahamut! AHAHAHA, TEAR PEGASUS APART! Bahamaut continued his barrage of powerful attacks. No matter what Pegasus tried to do; didn't make a dent as it kept getting sent flying time after time.

Is this the best the so-called champion can do? Disappointing, Akuma mocked his opponent. Come on Pegasus, there's gotta be a way, Gingka looked around for any sign but he didn't have time as Bahamut was right up Pegasus' tail.

Oh no, Pegasus is losing speed! Madoka noticed. Isn't there anything he can do Madoka? Kenta asked. I don't know Kenta, every time Pegasus hits Bahamut, it keeps absorbing his power somehow and I don't know how… I think Gingka is losing this one. The rest couldn't believe what she was saying.

Meanwhile Kyouya had been quiet all this time as you couldn't read his facial expressions. GINGKA! Kyouya stood up and shouted in front of the whole arena.

Gingka! Have you forgotten already? I'm the only one you're going to lose so don't you dare lose now! Kyouya motivates his rival.

Kyouya… He's right, I can't lose now. Pegasus! Gingka commanded as Pegasus got away from Bahamut. Go! Pegasus rushed on.

Hehehe, are you stupid or something? Akuma questioned. Pegasus dodged at the very last second, making a 90 degree turn before immediately turning back and hitting Bahamut on its sides.

I see! When Bahamut is attacking, it's focusing all of its power in the direction it's attacking, leaving the sides vulnerable, Madoka explained her discovery.

Way to go Gingka buddy! Yay, that's the way to do Gingka, show him what a champion can do! Benkei, Masamune and Kenta motivate and cheer him on.

When it all looked like it was over, Gingka shows his resilience as Pegasus is making a comeback. Ladies and Gentlemen, don't leave yet as this battle is far from over! DJ commented.

Ok Pegasus, let's show them our strength, SPECIAL MOVE: STAR BOOSTER ATTACK! Pegasus flew high into the sky and dived down like only Pegasus could only do. The attack hits its target as smoke covers the arena.

Dammit, I thought we had it! Gingka disappointedly said as both beys were still in the battle. Bahamut attacked Pegasus before they could collect themselves.

So you do have some firepower in you? hihihi, Akuma smiled as the battle had just started.

That's right when Pegasus and I work together, nobody will stop us! Gingka exclaimed as Pegasus hit back, locking both beys in a stalemate as sparks sparked all around them.

Even Chiyun was impressed with their battle as he was laser-focused. Saying that, he felt an uneasy feeling in the air. Who do you think is going to win, Chiyun? Mei-Mei asked.

Akuma, there's something negative about that guy, I can't put my finger on, Chiyun said as Mei-Mei didn't understand what he was referring to. I know the guy is crazy but I don't feel anything bad vibes from him.

Is that the power I need to win against the world's best? Tsubasa thought to himself as once again he reminded himself of his loss against Kyouya. He still hasn't figured out what happened to him. One moment he was feeling disappointed, next, he was feeling angry and in despair.

I have to get stronger if I wanna be champion, I can't get behind those two, Tsubasa vowed.

This battle is intense alright, who is going to win in this amazing clash between the two warriors? Neither are not showing any signs of giving up. Is it going to be Gingka? Or… Is it going to be Akuma? It's anyone's guess at this point people. DJ said as the audience cheered on for both bladers equally.

Both beys continued to clash, attack after attack with neither side giving an opening. From the outside you would think these two have battled each other countless times in the way both could predict and read each other's moves.

But Bahamut's advantageous ability to absorb its opponents power was taking its effect as Pegasus began to slow down.

Akuma, I got to say, I haven't had this great of a battle in a very long time but I think it's time we end this. Right Pegasus? Pegasus neighed in response.

If this continues any longer, both beys are not surviving this battle, Madoka stated as her data showed both were both reaching zero procent. But why do I have this knot in my stomach?

PEGASUS! STORM DRIVER! Gingka shouted with all of his lung capacity as Pegasus glowed in a blue fire, spinning around, creating a vacuum before rushing head on towards the dragon.

Akuma wickedly smiled. Masamune took notice and realised what was going on. Gingka, don't do it, you have to stop! Masamune shouted but it was too late as a bright light appeared from the collision, blinding everyone.

Is this it folks, do we have a winner? DJ asked as he tried to see if any bey had stopped. NO! Both beys are still spinning, the winning desire put on display here is something I've never seen before! DJ flabbergasted at how no one has lost yet.

Can't say I feel the same way Gingka… Akuma murmured loud enough for Gingka to hear.

Huh? Gingka wondered what he meant.

This is… A PATHETIC DISPLAY! IS THIS THE BEST JAPAN HAS TO OFFER! Instead of laughing, Akuma yelled in anger.

Bahamut, do it, Akuma demanded.

Suddenly all the stats on Bahamut increased tenfold as Madoka's laptop beeps as the stats exceed her progress bars.

Where is this power coming from! Yu asked as a dark aura surrounded Akuma. NOOOOO! Hikaru collapsed to the floor and put her hands on her head as she broke down.

Hikaru! Ryusei immediately bowed down to make sure his secretary was okay.

Kyouya grinded his teeths as he was disappointed in Gingka.

Pegasus, get out of there! Gingka shouted but Pegasus neighed in pain as the bey was pushed back and stuck to Bahamut's fusion wheel. A repeat of Masamune's match.

End it Bahamut! Akuma ordered as Bahamut pushed Pegasus so hard an explosion ignited from the sheer force of Bahamut's attack power and before anyone could register what had happened. Pegasus flew right by its owner, almost hitting his right ear and crashed into the wall.

THERE IT IS PEOPLE, AFTER A LONG AND GRUELLING MATCH, PLEASE GIVE IT UP FOR OUR WINNER, THE DRAGON KING HIMSELF, AKUMA! DJ shouted as loud as he could. But the audience were quiet, they didn't know whether to cheer, be afraid, in awe or shocked.

THIS WAS THE BEST BATTLE I'VE SEEN! Someone suddenly shouted and the rest followed as the arena had never been this loud ever before as everyone congratulated Akuma.

Gingka… everyone felt for their friend as they didn't expect him to lose. But Kyouya, he was pissed as he stomped the wall in front of him. GINGKAAAA, how dare you!

As Akuma recalled his bey, he returned to his indifferent persona and started leaving the arena.

Akuma, wait! Gingka called as Akuma stopped and turned around.

Great match, let's battle again sometime, Gingka said as he reached for a handshake.

Hm, whatever you say, just don't expect Pegasus to survive, Akuma said as he accepted the handshake.

Mei-Mei and Chiyun left the arena, not saying anything about the match as the result spoke for themselves. They needed to step up if they were going to win.

Amazing, huh? Said Enso Garcia to his siblings. If they get in our way, they will easily get crushed! Argo Garcia said as the others nodded.

Interesting… said Dr. Ziggurat as he stroked his rabbit. Masamune! Zeo said with a venomous tone, clearly holding some kind of grudge.

Another team we'll beat in the BWCS, Sophie confidently said. Julian? That beyblade… Something the matter sir? Julian's faithful servant asked.

No. No matter which pack of animals we face, they all will regret entering the tournament as they will bow to the world's best and strongest blader and that's me Julian Konzern.

Later that same day

Masamune, Tsubasa, Akuma; what great bladers to have for teammates. I'm proud to go into battle with them but I… I wish you were on our side too, Gingka thought as he looked up at the night sky.

After the match, when his friends shared him up after learning Kyouya had left the team and Pegasus got destroyed like Striker albeit less critical, they noticed he wasn't being himself.

From outta nowhere Bull and Sagittario circled around him. What are you guys doing? Gingka questioning his friends.

Let's battle Gingka! Gingka, let's do it! Benkei and Kenta declared a battle.

You want to battle like right now? Gingka asked. Don't you just stand there babbling, hurry up and launch! Benkei shouted.

Ok? I would love to but Pegasus is damaged y'know? Gingka reminded the bull blader.

Benkei felt embarrassed that he completely forgot Bahamut cracked Pegasus right open but quickly shook it off.

What's up? Tomorrow you're leaving for the BWCS so what's with the sour puss pal? Benkei demands answers.

Well, are you sure you're ready for this Gingka? Kenta asked with the same tone.

Uh, I'm sure I am! Gingka replied with an unconvinced tone. Kenta shook head. Sure doesn't look that way, Kenta said, disappointed with Gingka's answer.

You don't look like your heart is in it yet, Benkei clarified. My heart? Gingka was confused about what they were talking about. That's right; Why aren't you more pumped for this? It's the world, the world's best bladers you'll be facing, Benkei yelled with frustration.

You look bummed out like it's the first day back at school, Kenta commented.

Well school starts right now and Mr. Benkei's your teacher. Go Bull! Benkei ordered his bey to attack Pegasus. Sagittario! Kent'a bey swooped Pegasus in a surprise attack.

HEY! What are you guys doing Gingka yelled as he avoided the beys at his feet.

That won't work. A whiffy attitude like that won't faze me, Benkei confidently said. Better pull up your sock or Kyouya will laugh at ya!

Huh. Kyouya what?

Don't you understand? You won't be a member of the Japanese Team, Kyouya wants to fight; isn't the sad sack of potatoes you are now! He doesn't really like potatoes. Benkei mocked.

Who are you calling a potato?! I'm no stinking potato… I don't think Gingka responded feeling offended yet conflicted. Ouch, My foot!

We know you're not, Kenta said, feeling Gingka had enough of their play as the beys stopped. Talk to me Kenta, Gingka asked with an unconfident tone.

You know what you have to take with you Gingka? Kenta said.

What? Gingka said not catching their drift.

Take them to the world, Benkei shouted.

We wanted to take them but we can't, Kenta continued. TAKE THE SPIRITS OF ALL THE BLADERS IN THE COUNTRY Both shouted.

The blader's spirit?! Gingka finally realised what they were talking about.

That's right Gingka. If you're not even excited, how can you do that? Kenta said. You've got to go onto that huge world stage and fight with all the fire you've got! Benkei added.

Take all our spirits to the BWCS with you Gingka! Kenta demanded.

Gingka, can you hear us? Kenta asked as Gingka didn't respond. Yes I can, thank you so much my friends. Of course I'll do it. I will take everyone's spirit along with me into the world. I WILL BURN WITH ALL I GOT! Gingka declared.

That's the Gingka we all know and love, Benkei happily said. But this battle isn't over yet! Hey, knock it off you guys! Gingka shouted while flailing his hands.

Meanwhile Madoka smiled in the background, happy her friend was back to his usual self.

The Airport, The next day

Next stop the world right? Gingka hyping up his teammates.

I can't wait to see what opponents are waiting for us, Masamune excitedly said.

You bet, Tsubasa showed his enthusiasm too.

Ah this just stinks Yu blurted out as he wasn't going.

Huh, wait a minute, didn't Madoka come to see us off? And where's Akuma? Gingka said just realising two important people were missing.

Now that you mention it, I don't know where they are , Kenta replied. Just then Ryūsei and Hikaru arrived.

Looks like almost everyone's here, Ryūsei said. It's finally time to go Gingka, Hikaru said as if she was coming too.

Yeah, wait a minute, you're coming with us Hikaru? Gingka asked. Of course, someone's gotta take care of the paperwork and make sure everything goes as planned, Hikaru replied.

Well, do you know where Akuma is? Masamune asked the secretary. Wait, he isn't with you guys already? Hikaru responded, shocked she wasn't informed.

Wait before we worry about that, there's still one more person who will be going along with you guys, Ryūsei announced.

Who? Gingka asked his dad.

You see, alongside a secretary, each team has one athletic support member travelling with them… oh she's here! Ryūsei explained.

Let me introduce you, Japan's supporter member and the WBBA's very own super mechanic, Ryūsei announced.

Hi there everyone, how's it going? Madoka revealed herself to be the support member.

Huh? It's Madoka? So you're working for the WBBA? Gingka, Masamume and Tsubasa said.

It's all good, we're a team, Madoka winked.

Yeah, welcome aboard Madoka, this is great news! Gingka was happy to see their long standing mechanic was coming along as well.

Now listen up everyone, this is Team Japan, GanGan Galaxy, Ryūsei revealed.

GanGan Galaxy? Everyone except Hikaru was surprised.

Wow, that name fits us perfectly, don't you think? Gingka is happy with the team name.

Bogus, it fits you perfectly, Masamune showing his distaste.

Then Ryūsei and Hikaru proceed to explain the rules and how the BWCS was going to work. Essentially GanGan Galaxy were drafted into the A-Block and they had to win said block and then proceed to the finals where they battle the finalists of block A and B and whoever wins there, becomes World Champions.

So then, who is our first opponent? Tsubasa asked. It will be Team China, Team Wang Hu Zhong, Ryūsei answered.

Strong opponent right off the bat, now I'm itching to battle, Masamune said.

Now where's Akuma? Gingka said with a hint of panic.

Well if he's not arriving in time, then I'll take his place, Masamune eagerly said, hoping Akuma wasn't coming. Ouch! What was that Madoka?!

Come on Masamune, he's your teammate. I know you two don't get along but now that we are a team, you shouldn't be saying things like that, am I clear? Madoka demanded.

A few hours earlier

Akuma was in the hospital as he looked out the window at a woman connected to several tubes and monitors.

Sis… Akuma sadly whispered.

Don't you worry Akuma, she won't give up that easily and you promised her to win it all so you get the prize money, said a tall purple haired woman, wearing a FBI jacket with a pass that said Sandra on it.

But Akuma didn't reply as he looked at his bey, clinching to it as he was remembering something from his past.

Sis, I'll make you proud, just hold on. Don't worry, I'll keep you updated as much as possible, Sandra said. Don't you have a plane to catch? Sandra asked.

Yeah… but I'll make it, Akuma ensured. Can't be too careless, come on, I'll give you a lift, Sandra offered.

There he is! Kenta yelled and pointed to him.

We were worried about you, where have you been?! Hikaru sternly said but Akuma didn't respond.

So are we doing this or not? Akuma simply asked. Well yeah but seriously where have you been? Gingka asked.

Nothing you have to worry about, I'm here aren't I? Akuma responded.

As they boarded their flight and lifted off, Madoka quickly noticed a lot of their friends and rivals were waiting for them and held up their beys.

In response, everyone except Akuma did the same. Akuma was in deep thoughts and couldn't care less.

Everyone, we're going for it! Gingka shouted.