Chapter 9: The Gladiator VS Desert Blaze

The sun is rising. A giant bottle of fire that reminds me of my own bey spirit! Gingka, your battle in the world championships has re-lit my fire. The fire that makes my bey spirit burn. After seeing something like that, I can't sit around here one more minute… Farewell Kenta, farewell my hometown, no matter what happens there's no turning back down. Benkei bid his farewell as he looked over the ocean one more time before he headed to the airport, heading towards the unknown.

Somewhere else

A young man by the name of Julian Konzern was riding his white horse through a forest and as they exited, they were welcomed by a big and expensive real estate. But Julian had no time for such miniscule things as he continued to head towards the runway where a cargo helicopter was waiting for him.

Julian and his horse jumped onto the moving helicopter. As they safely entered the cargo, the pilot transported them to a private airstripe where Julian was given his beyblade and launcher by one of his many servants before taking off on his private jet.

Somewhere over the Middle East

Gingka and the gang were currently heading towards Arabia to watch a qualifying match between Desert Blaze[DBZ] and the EU Team. Currently they were having lunch.

Y'know what you guys, this taking trips overseas to do some bey battling is really the best thing ever! Masamune commented as he enjoyed his paid meal.

Says the guy who lost to an idol. Akuma blatantly said.

I would've won easily with all the training I did! Masamune refused to let his teammate get to him.

If you're going to be a sub, you better be ready. Akuma indifferently said. But something in his voice hinted he wasn't asking but rather demanding.

Will these two ever get along? Madoka whispered to Hikaru.

Good question. Hikaru replied as she looked at Akuma.

"I don't like people letting their fears get in the way of who they can be."

Earth to Hikaru. Madoka waved her hand in front of the secretary.

Sorry, what were you saying? Hikaru blurted as she snapped out of her thoughts.

I was asking: "any updates from WBBA?" Madoka repeated.

Oh right, not any so far. Hikaru lied.

Flashback start

Sir, why? Hikaru questioned her boss.

They need to see it firsthand, trust me on this. Ryūsei said.

If you say so. Hikaru replied.

Flashback ends

Ignoring his teammates' chatter, Gingka was deep in thoughts as he reflected back when they were waiting to board their plane.

Flashback starts

Hey Gingka! Dashan called out, surprising the members of GGG.

Dashan, you came to see us off huh? Gingka asked.

Yes my friend because I have something to say to you. Dashan revealed.

And what might that be? Gingka wondered.

To say this. Don't lose Gingka. This surprised the stallion blader as he certainly didn't expect a teaching lesson from his newly made rival.

Your team defeated ours WHZ. If you were to lose now it will reflect poorly on beylin temple's honour.

Right, I understand, I get ya. Gingka confirmed.

The next time we battle, we will defeat you. Chiyun, Mei-Mei and even Chao Xin already started their new training. They will be ready when we meet again. Dashan said with conviction.

That's the spirit! Sounds like everyone is working hard.

Well yes, until next time. Dashan said as he put his fists together.

We will be happy to battle you again, Dashan. Gingka reached out for a handshake which the qilin blader very much accepted.

And you Akuma, I would love to test my strength against you someday. Akuma didn't show any expression as he blankly stared back at WHZ's leader.

Flashback ends

Man, there are sure are a lot of really good bladers out there. I was totally surprised. How about you guys? What do you think? Masamune asked his teammates.

Hm… Akuma smiled, much to Masamune's surprise.

Don't get starstruck Masamune, we need to keep ourselves on top if we're going to win. Hikaru reminds.

Next we'll see the team from the EU and team Desert Blaze. They're battling each other tonight. Tsubasa remarked.

The word on the street is that both teams have some pretty strong bladers. Madoka revealed.

Let's pay close attention as we watch them, OK everyone? They're in the same A Block with us so we'll probably face the winning team eventually. Gingka ordered. Everybody nodded except for Akuma who switched into his wicked persona, still creeping his teammates out and they had no idea why.

Arabia

Wow, is it ever hot here? Masamune waved his hand in an attempt to cool down.

It's the long-awaited BWCS! Our representative team Desert Blaze will finally have their first round battle tonight. Gasur, Karte and Zidane, the three bladers who have completed and honed their bey skills in a harsh desert environment; will they show us a fierce fight?

Tonight in the yellow sands arena, be sure to watch our Desert Blaze's victory with their own eyes! The Arabian DJ informed, over the big TV Screens across the country.

So cool! You rock out DBZ! Totally yeah.

People are pretty pumped. Madoka chuckled seeing how big the home crowd were excited and showing their support on the streets already.

Can't wait to see them battling! Gingka's bey spirit pumped up as he was eager to learn more about them.

They seem like a pretty strong team, alright. Tsubasa commented, much to the dismay of the home crowd.

What do you mean? Pretty strong?!

DBZ is the strongest by far; Gasur and the others are definitely gonna become number one!

You must be confused. If you're talking about the world's strongest number one blader then it is I- Gingka covered Masamune's mouth, not wanting to hear more of his number one rambling.

Sorry about that. By the way you guys I'd like to ask you something if that's all right? The natives weren't sure how to respond.

Where should a guy go if he wanted to meet this DBZ? Gingka clarified.

Somewhere in the desert

Go Northern Cross!

Fly now go crow. The three members of DBZ instructed in sync.

There they are. Gingka and the rest just arrived as DBZ were in the middle of practice.

So this is DBZ's practice ground huh? Masamune said as the beys were moving through the ruin's obstacle course like it was nothing.

What precise control these guys have and it's fast too. Gingka expressed his first impression, feeling impressed by their skills.

"We came all the way out for this?" Akuma was disappointed seeing how weak they were.

I say, send it flying. Northern Cross summoned a sandstorm, sending the barrel high into the sky.

Now that is awesome power. Masamune commented.

That totally rocked Gasur! Zidane, looks like it's our turn buddy.

Leave it to me, Karte. Zidane gave a thumbs up as both crows attacked each other using the environment to their advantage.

Even though they're blading on sand, they still have such great mobility. Tsubasa analysed as the team continued to take notes of their potential opponent.

Not bad, pal. Back at ya. The duo complimented each other. I'm all set to go now. Do it! They ordered as both beys started to move in a zigzag pattern.

What are these guys doing now? Gingka wondered.

Both crows summoned their respective bit beasts before they merged into one bigger crow. Crow Crusher! They yelled as the beys smashed a big rock.

Whoa, unbelievable! Masamune shouted, revealing their presence.

Who's there? Gasur demanded.

Eh, nobody, sorry we didn't mean to bother you but we wanted to see a bit of your practice routine. Gingka explained as he flailed his hands.

You're him aren't you? You're Gingka! Gasur realised as he got a good look on the red haired blader.

What?

Did you say Gingka?!

Both teams sat down to chat while sitting on the desert ruins.

I see; so you came all this way just to see tonight's battle. Gasur piecing together the pieces.

Well, since we're in the same division in the tournament, we'll probably end up battling each other at some point. Gingka revealed.

We wanted to see our opponents first hand. Hikaru said.

Sure, that makes sense; we saw your battle with WHZ too. Gasur revealed.

It was an excellent fight.

Yeah, absolutely. Karte and Zidane complimented them, making Gingka blush as he scratched his cheek.

Thanks a lot… Gingka accepted the praise with a shy laugh.

My name is Gasur. This is Zidane and Karte. The white haired leader introduced the team with Zidane, the blond haired crow sitting to his right and Karte sitting on his left. It's nice to meet you.

It's nice to meet you too.

You guys are pretty amazing bladers. Looks like tonight's battle will be a fun one to watch. Masamune happily expressed.

It should be, we're gonna win. Gasur stated with confidence.

But we can't let our guard down; our opponents are all bladers trying to win for their countries or regions too. Karte reminded his teammates.

That's why we practise like this every day so that today we can become a bit stronger than yesterday and tomorrow a bit stronger than today. Zidane said as everyone nodded but of course Akuma barely paid attention.

Gingka, hopefully we can both keep winning and meet in the stadium and battle each other. Gasur expressed.

Yeah, that'd be great! Let's try to make that happen. Gingka responded as both fists bumped.

Sure, it's a deal.

After saying their goodbyes, team GGG headed back to the city and by then it was sunfall as the sky glowed in an orange hue.

So that was team DBZ huh? Gingka couldn't believe it, meeting such strong bladers.

Uh-huh, they seemed like really nice people. Madoka commented as a white limousine passed by and stopped at the hotel down the street where a red carpet rolled out for the incoming guest.

Sweet, a limousine! Masamune was in awe of the luxury vehicle as several guards dressed in black lined up on each side of the red carpet and opened the door, revealing the guest to be none other than Julian Konzern.

.

Some famous actor? Gingka guessed.

I dunno. Madoka responded.

Seriously dude, what's up with you? Ever since we arrived, you've been acting weirder than usual. But anyway, probably just some spoiled rich kid, I bet. Masamune boasted as Julian and his guards passed them by.

As he stepped out, Akuma wickedly smiled and Hikaru's eyes widened.

Wait, you guys know who he is? Madoka asked as she noticed their reactions.

Heheh. Akuma laughed, attracting stares from the local people.

Yes. Hikaru simply replied.

Come on, tell us! Masamune begged.

You'll see soon. Hikaru replied.

WHAT?! What's up- Masamune stopped his yelling as his stomach ached for some food. I'm hungry.

Well if you say so Hikaru. Let's get outta here. Gingka causally demanded.

As they left, they didn't notice Julian's grin.

It appears that coming all this way will be worthwhile after all. Julian chuckled as he entered the hotel.

The gang ended up eating at a local restaurant since they were all here, might as well try some local dishes. As they were enjoying their food. Akuma's phone buzzed. Seeing who was the caller. Akuma bumped his arm into Madoka.

Right. Just give me a sec. Madoka replied as she stepped out of their booth so Akuma could go through.

Wonder who would call a guy like him? Masamune remarked.

Dunno but it seemed important. Gingka said before he continued. We still don't know much about him do we? Since we became a team, he's barely talked to us except for Hikaru that is.

Me? Hikaru didn't expect Gingka's comment.

That's true. Tsubasa agreed with his leader.

No, no, I resent the guy, he's still a jerk. Hikaru said with a distaste in her voice.

Really? Even after those times he helped you with your panic attack? Madoka grinned, seeing through her poker face.

I admit, he has his ways of calming me in a way others can't do but I still haven't forgiven him for the rude things he has said to me. Hikaru defended.

Oh shit! We need to hurry up! Masamune shouted as he looked at the time.

Congratulations Akuma! I'm so proud of you. Advancing to the second round, that must be amazing? How was China? Sandra asked over the phone.

It was alright, still too weak for my liking. Akuma sighed.

Come on, don't say that! Not a lot of people can say they're competing in a world tournament at your age. Enjoy it while you can. I know your sister would. Sandra argued while Akuma just sighed out of annoyance.

Any news about sis? Akuma asked.

Yeah actually, the doctors said she's slowly getting better but as you know, the faster you get the money the better. Sandra reminded him.

That's good.

Y'know, you don't have to put so much pressure on yourself, my offer still stands. Sandra said.

I can't do that, I will win. Akuma simply stated.

She would be so proud of you, y'know? Sandra happily said. She couldn't see it but Akuma was definitely blushing.

How's the team getting along?

Ugh… I'm not here to babysit, as long they win their matches, they're fine. Akuma growled.

Don't give me that! I know you didn't have it easy but now's your chance to make friends your age. Don't waste it. Speaking of the blue haired girl, she caught your eye? Sandra smirked.

Huh? Keep dreaming, I only helped her because sis wouldn't let me live otherwise. Besides, how did you know? Akuma rolled his eyes before pinching his forehead.

Ha! I knew it! Treat her right, it will be good for you… HEY! You son of a- Sandra got interrupted as gun shoots could be heard in the background.

How are you and sis… Are you working right now?! Should you really be calling me right now? Won't they track you? Akuma asked.

Oh please, this is a secure channel and these guys are the least of my problems, besides this was the only time I could call you right now. Anyway, gotta go, bye! Sandra hung up just as she began fouling her enemies.

That woman… Akuma sweatdropped.

Akuma? Someone called.

Akuma turned around to see Hikaru waiting for him. The gang were heading for the arena and since they were in a rush, they decided to meet up at the venue and Hikaru got chosen to find their wicked teammate.

I didn't mean to spy, just didn't feel right to interrupt. Hikaru said, feeling a little bad.

Akuma sighed. It's fine, how much did you hear?

Just the… last few parts… Hikaru admitted. Hey, if you need to talk to someone, we're here for you. Hikaru said as she didn't realise she unintentionally reached out for his hand.

Akuma was about to say something but then he paused for a moment as Sandra's words echoed in his mind. Don't tell anyone and… I appreciate it. Akuma closed his eyes as he grinned. Also could you let go of my hand.

Oh right, sorry! Hikaru flustered as she realised what she'd done. This way Akuma! She said as both rushed to the arena.

Yellow Sands Arena

Now here at yellow sands arena, our home team is ready to rumble as they aim to become number one in the world. DHZ starts their journey at last! Just what kind of big bad bey battle will they show us tonight? Here comes the bladers! The Arabian DJ announced as DBZ appeared from under the stadium.

All right! Good luck to you all DBZ! Madoka cheered

Don't forget the promise you made with us OK? Gingka recalls as the leader turned around and gave a thumbs up.

Their opponents are the EU representatives. Give it up for team Excalibur! To everyone's shock, only one member appeared and that was Julian.

Why is there only one blader? DJ asked the question everybody wanted to know.

He's that rich kid from before! Masamune said.

He's the EU representative? Gingka couldn't believe it.

That guy is a blader? Tsubasa was equally shocked.

HAHAHA, finally! Akuma could barely sit still.

That's why you didn't tell us before Hikaru. Madoka said as the secretary nodded, confirming it.

Apparently the only member of the EU team to show up as a blader is Julian Konzern. Does he plan to battle DBZ on his own? DJ shrugged.

What's your story Julian? Gingka questioned the EU member's professionalism.

Can anyone tell me what's going on here? Masamune asked for an explanation.

The world championship uses a three-on-three team battle style. Did the EU team forget to pick someone at the airport? DJ jokes.

Hey you! Where are the other two bladers on your team! Gasur demanded, feeling disrespected.

I don't need them. Julian simply replied.

So does that mean you're going to face all three of us by yourself? That makes no sense! Zidane couldn't believe someone dared to challenge them like this.

It won't be a problem for ME. Julian confidently said.

What was that?!

Even if one of you can defeat me here today then your team will win the battle. Does that sound OK? Julian suggested, acting like he had already won the battle.

Are you putting us on?!

This match isn't a joke to us pal!

He's planning to fight all three matches by himself?! Madoka thought Julian was out of his mind for attempting such a thing.

I can't understand what this guy is even thinking! Gingka talked out loud.

Huh! I don't know what his deal is but it is amusing. Masamune grinned.

That's some big mouth, you've got buddy. I've seen this before; guys who overestimate their own skills and power… Alright fine, we'll teach you that your conceited way of thinking just won't fly out here in the real world. Gasur accepted the terms.

In that case, let's get started! Julian stated.

DJ, Gasur called out.

Me? Right, sorry. The BWCS A Block round one. DBZ vs. Excalibur battle will be in a regular three against one competition. IF Julian is defeated once, DBZ will win and move onto the second round! DJ officially allowed the exception of a match.

Be careful with this guy!

Don't sweat it Karte. I'll end this with the first match. Gasur confidently stated as he walked up to the stadium.

The first match is Gasur vs. Julian!

Don't mess with us Julian

Take this guy out with one move Gasur!

Let's kick some bey DBZ!

The crowd showed their support for the home team as they too felt disrespected by Julian's declaration.

Ready to throw down, big mouth? Cause I sure am. Gasur pointed his bey towards Julian as he was determined to win.

At least try to last long enough for it to hear the melody… My Gravity Destroyer's melody that is. Julian paid his opponent no mind as he showed his partner for everyone to see.

What's a Gravity Destroyer? Gingka wondered, having neither seen or heard of that bey everbefore.

Buckle up fans cause here we go! 3,2,1 LET IT RIP!

Give it your all, Northern Cross! Gasure immediately ordered his bey to attack as it circled around Destroyers, hitting it from all angles while the black and purple bey defended.

That's what I'm talking about!

Come on, keep it up Gasur!

Karte and Zidane cheered on but as for Julian, he seemed to listen for something and looked annoyed.

For someone who asked for a one against three battle, he's no big thing. Masamune remarked.

Hehehe, they're toast. Akuma chuckled.

What? What do you know that we don't? Masamune angrily asked.

And that's not all! Northern Cross took full advantage of the stadium as it now attacked Destroyer from above with diving attacks.

Northern Cross continues with its endless diving attacks! Is Destroyer not going to fight back at all? DJ commented.

All right! That Gasur really is something. Masamune cheered alongside the rest of the home crowd.

I guess. Gingka on the other hand, had a feeling something wasn't right.

I know, it doesn't seem to be causing all that much damage. Tsubasa clarified what Gingka and Madoka were thinking.

You think so too huh, Tsubasa? It must be because of that energy ring. Madoka pulled out her laptop and began analysing the gladiator. Look! A uniquely shaped energy ring is attached to the top of this super thick fusion wheel. It's almost as if… Yes! It's like the fusion wheel is wearing a helmet! With a fusion wheel like that, it won't be affected by any normal attacks! Madoka explained enthusiastically.

I think the big question now is what it will do in order to attack effectively? Tsubasa wondered what Julian had in store.

That harsh tune, it really hurts my ears, an uninspired rhythm, a melody lacking even a hint of beauty. Why is it nothing more than a noise? I can't stand to listen to it anymore. Julian complained as he opened his eyes. I'll bring it to its finale! He claimed.

Say what?

According to legend. Julian raised his hands as Gasur was confused by his actions.

The hero Destroyer went on a journey to defeat a fearsome monster, Medusa, the monster with snakes for hair that turned anyone it looked at into stone. After a heated battle, the Destroyer used Medusa's eyes as a weapon to defeat his enemies by turning them into stone. Julian finished.

What is that dude talking about Zidane? Karte asked.

Beats me.

You're a very strange guy. If you think you can beat me, bring it on! Gasur grinned.

I'll show you the power of a hero! Gravity Destroyer! Assume counter mode. Julian commanded as Destroyer's energy ring rotated to reveal a set of red eyes.

What's that? Masamune asked.

It's a mode change. Gingka answered.

Can you believe it? Looks like Destroyer has changed modes. DJ said as he was surprised as everyone else.

It's useless. No one has been able to run from these; Medusa's eyes! Julian claimed as the red eyes began to glow as the bit beast revealed itself to be Medusa.

Go now Destroyer!

If he's using a mode change, then I'll just fight back with my speed. Go Northern Cross! Gasur ordered as it rushed head on.

What's wrong with you Northern Cross? Go, go now! Gasur reissued his command. But his bey stood still as Destroyer slammed it out of the stadium much to everyone's shock.

I can't believe it. Gasur fell to his knees as he watched his bey crash into the wall on the second row.

Destroyer's devastating attack succeeds big time! Northern Crosses day is over as it is sent flying out of the stadium with a swift single blow. DJ announced.

What incredible power it has. Masamune couldn't believe what he just witnessed as Gingka gritted his teeths.

So that's Medusa's eyes. Gingka muttered.

This… this… this… this can't be! Gasur blamed himself as he slammed his fist into the floor.

Calm down Gasur… You just got a little careless and that's all. Karte told his leader.

But now, thanks to you, we know the opponent's secrets. Zidane showed it was not all in for nothing.

What's the big deal about a mode change? I can take this guy with one arm tied around my back! Karte claimed as he stepped forward to battle.

For the second match, Karte steps up; will he win for pal Gasur? DJ asked the crowd who cheered loudly in response.

You came alone? Julian asked rudely.

What?!

You and that other one over there should come and meet together. Julian suggested but it sounded more like a demand.

Look, you, what did you just say?! Zidane asked.

Now what?! This time Julian is saying he wants to battle TWO at the same time! DJ held his head as he couldn't believe it. Just how far will this blader go to insult DBZ?

Yeah! Just play the match fairly!

Don't pay any attention to him! Teach him a lesson he won't forget! Come on Karte, come on Zidane.

Various people in the crowd let their opinion be heard as they felt insulted and wanted their team to win.

OK, let's get on with this thing!

Yeah! If it's two against one you want there; we're more than happy to accommodate you.

DBZ accepts your challenge. The duo said in sync as they grabbed their respective beys much to Julian's joy as he grinned.

This is getting crazy! The second match will be in a regular two-on-one battle! Now he's taking on both Karte and Zidane; will Julian's Destroyer's possibly escape unarmed? DJ announced.

Yes sir baby! This will be GREAT! Masamune excitedly shouted.

He must not know that Karte and Zidane have a combo move that they can only perform together. Madoka remarked.

Maybe. Tsubasa simply said.

Or is this Julian still hiding something nasty up his sleeve? Gingka shared his thoughts with the group.

Just watch Hahaha! Akuma wickedly laughed as he stood up, no longer holding in his excitement as he knew was about to happen.

I see this time I will play a song for you… Your BEY's funeral march! Julian stated.

Here we go, 3,2,1 LET IT RIP!

But as soon as both sides launched their beys, everyone but Julian and Akuma gasped at Destroyer.

I don't believe it! This can't be, just can't. That bey is… rotating counter-clockwise. Gingka remarked in disbelief as another left-rotating beyblade had appeared.

Impossible! I can't believe there's another bey other than L-Drago and Bahamut that can spin counterclockwise!

Hikaru's eyes widened seeing another left rotating beyblade. There's more than 2 counterclockwise beyblades?!

Huh? Did he switch beys out there somehow?! Masamune questioned.

No, that's not what happend. Madoka said as she quickly analysed Destroyer again. That bet he's using is exactly the same!

So that means the Destroyer is one bey that can rotate clockwise and counterclockwise. Gingka didn't believe the words that came out of his mouth.

Huh? Counterclockwise rotation?

Don't freak out Karte… Let's do that move.

Yes Zidane, understood.

GO NOW! Zidane and Karte shouted to their beys.

Crow crusher! The merged crows rushed with all of their power, betting on this one attack.

Now, listen to this! Your funeral march… Here's the finale. Julian said as Destroyer appeared and slashed the bird in half with his sword and destroyed a part of the ceiling.

That didn't happen.

Whoa, our crows are gone.

It can't be true!

DBZ lost the match, no way!

Neither the crowd or DBZ could believe they were out of the tournament.

Unbelievable, Julian has single-handedly defeated all three members of team DBZ! The EU representatives Excalibur move onto the second round! DJ announced.

Did you see that? Those three were defeated by just one guy! Masamune was in disbelief.

Not bad Julian Konzern. Akuma grinned.

So who's this Julian Konzern? Gingka wondered as he stared at the winner.