Chapter 11: Cage Match

Galaxy Pegasus, Earth Eagle and Bahamut. None of them are opponents that could be taken care of by normal means. We, Lovushka must take extra precautions to make sure that we are victorious. Which came first? The rocket or the launching pad? And being first is all we care about, hahaha. Anton laughed as he planned how to sabotage each beyblader on team Japan.

Still no words on Masaumune's whereabouts? Gingka asked.

Unfortunately no. Hikaru replied as she checked for any new messages from the WBBA.

Where in the world can he possibly be? Tsubasa pondered.

All we can do is to win our battles and advance to the third round. I'm sure that's what he would want. Gingka encouraged the team.

That's what I've been saying. Akuma grunted as he leaned on the wall.

Well, hopefully he can come back soon to see us battle. Madoka added when Aleksey entered their room.

Hi everyone. Aleksey greeted.

What do you want? Tsubasa asked in a rude and angry manner.

There's a meal ready for you all. It is this way. Aleksey ignored the angry vibes from the Japanese team.

OK.

I was actually getting hungry. Gingka said as his stomach growled for food.

As the group entered the dining hall, they were amazed by the array of food prepared for them.

Please don't be shy. Aleksey simply said.

Don't worry, we won't be! Gingka jumped towards the table without thinking.

Gingka! Madoka sometimes wished their leader had better manners.

Masamune's location

Meanwhile Masamune was walking through a barren land as a jet plane flew past him.

Ugh… I have no idea where I am. Masamune moaned as he had been walking endlessly for hours. My throat is so dry and my stomach is empty. Masamune said as he was sweating from the hot sun and before he knew it, he rolled down a hill after fumbling over a rock.

A building? I'm saved at last! Masamune pushed himself up as he began walking towards the small town on the horizon.

Dining hall

Meanwhile back at the dining hall, everyone had finished their meals, especially Gingka who ate a lot.

Thank you for the food! Gingka let the chefs know he appreciated the food by burping.

Done already?! Madoka couldn't believe how much he had eaten as she looked at the stacked plates.

What should we do now? Tsubasa wondered.

There's still time before the next round starts so we have time for sightseeing. Hikaru expressed her idea to the rest of the group.

If you want, I can show you the space centre. Aleksey suggested.

That would be cool. Gingka said, talking with food in his mouth.

Fine with me.

I would love to see what they're developing.

I don't mind.

Meh. The GGG members expressed their opinions as the majority agreed to Aleksey's suggestion.

Follow me. Aleksey replied as they headed towards the space centre.

It's huge!

Stunning. Gingka and Madoka awed at seeing a real life space rocket so close up.

This is… the place that will let us realise our dream… Yes! One day we will ride in this rocket and fly beyond the Earth. We will SOAR into the great expanse of space, that is our dream, our ONLY dream. Aleksey reminded himself of his promise.

Space huh? That is awesome! If we train hard, can we ride on that and go into space too? Gingka asked.

I've got the biceps for the job-

Stop it, stop it, stop it! It takes more than muscle to go into space! Don't you know anything at all?! Lera angrily asked.

Huh? Gingka raised his eyebrow at the ponytailed blader.

To become an astronaut you need more than physical strength. You also need a ton of highly skilled technical knowledge… Not to mention the following: standard education, space engineering, space medicine, orbital dynamics. Lera finished explaining as Gingka was overwhelmed from the information thrown at him.

OK, you can stop now! Just listening to that makes my head hurt. Gingka complained while Akuma rolled his eyes.

We've been here for 5 years. Nowaguma said.

What was that? Gingka asked as he couldn't hear Nowa's soft spoken voice.

Nowaguma saying that we've been here for 5 YEARS, undergoing intense training! Pay closer ATTENTION! We've had no breaks that whole time! Lera ranted before continuing. For 365 days a year, our harsh endless training has continued. Lera sadly said.

You've obviously all worked really hard to make your dream a reality haven't you? Madoka asked.

Yes and we do not want to let all of that effort go to waste. Aleksey stated much to GGG's confusion.

What do you mean? Madoka asked for an explanation.

We won't be able to do it anymore. The budget for the space program has been cut because of the bad economy. Lera pouted.

No more space. Nowaguma remarked.

No, that's right, the chances are the entire space development program will be scrapped! Lera revealed.

How awful.

That totally bites! Gingka and Madoka felt for the Russian team.

It bites large. It comes down to the competition. If we can win and gain recognition at the BWCS, we MAY have a chance to save our dream. Aleksey said.

If we win, we may be able to get a new sponsor to support us, do you understand? Lera asked. So there is no room for error, we simply cannot lose, not happening! Lera claimed.

We have to win and move forward. Our team must make the rest of the world notice us. Aleksey said with determination.

I get it… But look that being said, we're still not gonna go easy on ya. We're going to pay you back for what you did back at the train. Gingka responded.

Yes. Please come at us with all of your might.

If you start pulling punches, we won't be able to show the world how awesome we are and then we will win everything!

And our victory will turn into a reality. Aleksey and Lera stated.

"Yes, we have to win, we must beat them, no matter what it takes to do it." Aleksey thought.

Winning you say? Keep dreaming. Akuma bluntly said as everyone turned their attention to the Bahamut blader.

What did you say?! Lera wasn't going to let anyone disrespect their team.

When I entered the world championship I expected the opponents to at least put up a fight but so far everyone has been WEAK and from what I've seen, you're no different. Akuma looked down on his opponents.

OK big shot, just because you've won a couple matches, doesn't mean you're better than everyone else. Lera hit back.

We will win. Nowaguma growled.

Akuma, you don't have to be disrespectful, we will show them tomorrow. Gingka oppressed Akuma's attitude.

This has nothing to do with what they did. I couldn't care less but now we're on the topic. Stealing an opponent's data, if that doesn't tell me how weak this team is then I dunno what is. No matter what you throw at me, I will easily crush my way to victory. The world championship is mine. Akuma dismissed the whole Russian team.

You have no idea what we've gone through, we sacrificed everything to achieve our dream! We will win and fulfil our dream no matter what we have to do! Aleksey defended his team's action.

Sacrificed everything you say? Akuma raised his eyebrows as both stood face to face.

YES! And I won't tolerate any disrespect towards my teammates! Apologise! Aleksey demanded.

But Akuma just shrugged his shoulders, not even reacting to Aleksey's angry aura.

Can't handle the truth? Akuma asked as Aleksey grabbed his shirt.

Aleksey!

Akuma!

Both members of each team intervened before a brawl could occur.

Please Akuma, save it for the battle. Gingka requested as Aleksey let him go.

Ignore him, Aleksey, he's not worth it. Lera tried to calm her leader down.

Aleksey gritted his teeth before challenging Akuma. If you think you're that good, prove it! You and me for the championship!

Hold on Aleksey, Anton won't be happy about this. Lera blurted as she expressed her worries.

S-she's right. Nowaguma agreed with his teammate.

Akuma sighed as he looked at his teammates. Not that I wanna but since I have to, let me battle Aleksey.

Hold on, is this really the time to decide the battle order right now? Tsubasa expressed his thoughts.

Tsubasa's right, we haven't finished discussing our strategies and let's not be hasty. Hikaru agreed with her teammate.

You're chickening out? Aleksey mocked.

No. We both know, I will win no matter what happens but it's not my decision alone to decide but if you want to battle sure, I still have to battle anyway. Akuma bluntly said as he began leaving.

I'll see you there. Aleksey felt motivated to prove his opponent wrong.

Both teams split after the tour guide to prepare for the upcoming match.

As the first match neared, fans rushed to the stadium.

Welcome to the BWCS! The second round of the A-Block begins here! This battle is between our Russian representatives, team Lovushka and Japan's representatives, team GanGan Galaxy! It's gonna be madness! The Russian DJ commented to a sold out arena.

Oh looks like Masamune won't make it in time after all. The WBBA hasn't received a single word from him either. Hikaru informed her teammates.

For now, all we can do is win, that's what he would want. Tsubasa said in an attempt to make everyone relax.

Fine then! In that case, we'll win every single match. I'll go first to get us the lead. Gingka suggested.

Akuma, Tsubasa, are you guys OK with that? Hikaru asked for their opinion.

Yeah, I'm down with it. Tsubasa replied.

As long as Gingka wins, I don't care. Akuma expressed.

OK… So Gingka will be the advance guard. Hikaru announced. Akuma will be second in command, are you OK with that Tsubasa? Hikaru asked.

Yeah, I believe that's our best chance to win.

Great, let's go everyone. Gingka said as everyone but Akuma cheered, not noticing the glowing red camera on the wall.

So Gingka has been selected as the advance guard. Anton said from his office as he spied on them.

They're using their leader first?! Lera shouted.

Nowaguma goes first. Anton immediately decided. I would have picked Aleksey but someone decided to play the hero. Anton said in a rude manner.

But sir, he disrespected our team and dreams. As the leader of Lovushka, I'll need to show we're the best! Aleksey argued.

Lovushka's number one blader is you no doubt but stop thinking like an amateur! Because of your antics, you'll have to battle Akuma which wasn't the plan! Anton scolded.

If you want to win this thing, you should all do exactly as I say, do you understand? Is that clear? Is that clear? Anton repeated and each time Aleksey refused to respond, Anton was losing his patience.

Yes… Aleksey said with disappointment in his voice.

Masamune's location

Water.. huh?! Masamune said as he opened the door and was shocked by all of the muscular men wearing black jackets at the bar, drinking and watching the TV.

Suddenly one of them walked to Masamune.

What do you want? Masamune stuttered as he was afraid.

You! Is that you up there? The man asked as he pointed to the TV screen which was showing a picture of Masamune.

To repeat, this boy Masamune Kadoya went mysteriously missing on his way to an arena in Russia and he's not been found. If anyone sees this boy, please contact the WBBA immediately. The news reporter stated.

Uhh… Masamune wasn't sure whether to tell the truth or run away.

Russian arena

The fans screamed as they couldn't wait for the battle to start.

Are you ready to get this Russian rumble started? First up is GGG. Put your frozen mitts together for Gingka! DJ introduced as the crowd booed.

From team Lovushka, Nowaguma! Give it up for the guy in the big suit! DJ pointed towards the astronaut as he stepped up to the stadium, looking determined as the crowd cheered him on.

As long as the Earth spins so does the BEY! OK everyone let's see who comes out on top. The Russian astronaut or the Japanese scarf model? The big TV screen showed the two bladers in splitscreen with an "vs" overlay.

I thought the Chineses were loud but this is another level. Madoka commented as she covered her ears from the sheer loudness of the Russian audience. I should have brought my earplugs with me.

Knowing how loyal each audience has been since we left Japan, all considered, it's not surprising. Tsubasa stated.

It'll take more than cheering to rattle me, let's go Nowaguma. Gingka was used to it as he was only focused on the person in front of him.

For this battle a no stadium out complete defeat rule will be in effect. DJ revealed.

Did he say a no stadium out complete defeat rule?! Madoka had to repeat DJ's words as she couldn't believe they weren't informed beforehand.

So that's what they're doing. Hikaru glared at the opponents.

But this stadium isn't designed for that. Tsubasa commented as the floor opened to reveal the stadium as Gingka and Nowaguma were locked in a cage.

What is that thing?! Madoka and Gingka thought out loud.

What do you think? In order to stage a complete defeat match, behold! The cage stadium. Anton chuckled as he raised his arms.

The cage stadium…! Madoka couldn't believe it.

Masamune's location

Don't worry little boy. I'll get you to the arena in time in this baby. The pilot reassured Masamume was shaking with fear sitting in the backseat of a jet. We all enjoy watching the world championships so it's the least I can do.

Thank you, you're being a real pal. Masamune accepted the compliment but that did little to ease his fear.

OK, hold on tight. The pilot instructed as he adjusted his helmet.

Why is that? Masamune hesitated to ask.

Without any warning, the jet took off as Masamune felt the G-force.

Now we're going to open her up, kid.

It's just one disaster after another! Masamune held on for his dear life as they were moving at an insane speed.

Russian arena

Having fun, enjoying the Russian hospitality? Anton evilly laughed.

Big deal, I'll battle you here or anywhere for that matter.

Oh that figures…

He sure loves beyblade. Hikaru and Madoka sweatdropped as they weren't surprised by their leader's response.

That's wonderful. That is what makes you the battle blader's champion. Now then send him back home, Nowaguma! Anton demanded.

My friends and I must go into space so… I must win, I will win. Nowaguma vowed as he readied himself to launch.

Well that's nice and all but it ain't happening. Gingka sang. Let's do this!

It's time to get things rolling! DJ said as everyone began counting down.

3,2,1 LET IT RIP!

Neither wasted no time as they immediately attacked each other head on.

Get him Pegasus! Pegasus stopped attack and circled around to gain speed before launching itself into the sky.

Try this one, star booster attack! But it went nowhere as the cage prevented Pegasus from reaching the necessary height to trigger its special move and instead landed back into the stadium.

Pegasus is trying to reach for the sky but someone forgot about the cage. DJ commented.

Nuts! Gingka let out his frustration.

This means he can't use his special move. Tsubasa remarked.

Should have seen that coming. Akuma sneered.

Anton laughed as his plan was going according to plan. A Pegasus that cannot fly is nothing but a horse. It just goes to show what a little underhanded research can do for you.

This is so unfair! Tsubasa and Madoka complained.

Unfair? No, not at all, Gingka and Nowaguma are battling under the exact same conditions. Stop being such babies and get on with the match already. Anton mocked the opposing team.

Not a problem! Listen, don't think you can stop my Pegasus with this thing. I'll break right out of this cage, do you hear me! Gingka growled as Pegasus circled even faster before leaving the stadium again.

I don't think so… Anton muttered as he pressed a button.

As Pegasus touched the cage, Pegasus got electrified much to the shock of everyone.

Is that what I think it is? Hikaru asked.

Yes, an electric current. Madoka immediately responded.

"Meh." Akuma thought.

Now what?! A shocking development! DJ punned.

Pegasus!

Pegasus appears to withstand whatever that was. DJ continued his commentary.

What do you mean "that was" you goofball! Madoka berated the announcer.

Like I said already, they're both under the same conditions. Aleksey reminded them with a smug expression on his face.

Aleksey, why?! Why did you do this? Do you really want to win so badly you'd actually cheat? Aleksey growled as he couldn't look Madoka in the eye. How do you sleep at night!?

Aleksey… Lera looked at her leader with a worried expression.

Lera! You see that battle has already started. No, there's no turning back. Not now, we have to win no matter what… Go Nowaguma! Aleksey shrugged off his female companion as he angrily cheered on his teammate.

Yes, Nowaguma said as he clenched his fists. I fully understand Aleksey's feelings so I will fight… In order to win, I will make our dream come TRUE. Nowaguma roared as Orso stopped defending and charged head on.

Gingka! If the sky is blocked, use the ground!

You were able to win against Nowaguma on the train, remember? You couldn't use the star booster there! Hikaru and Tsubasa reminds.

Yeah, I know, go now Pegasus! Gingka instructed but Pegasus' attack did nothing as Orso inserted its claws to Pegasus's head.

Bouncing balls! Orso has stopped Pegasus' fierce attack as if it was nothing at all! DJ described the events in real time as the crow cheered for their home team.

Not enough! Pegasus, do it one more time!

Oh! It stops the attack yet again! Ursa major's Rock Orso, true to its name, like a wild bear, it does not even budge under the attacks from Pegasus. DJ remarked.

We'll show them, even with our stolen data we're gonna win. Tsubasa believed.

Madoka, is there anything Gingka can do? Hikaru asked the mechanic.

Madoka pulled up her laptop to analyse their opponent's bey. Rock Orso is a defence type bey. Once it gets into a stance with that fusion wheel, no ordinary attack will affect it. Madoka gave a first impression as the situation was looking dire.

With its wings clipped and unable to fly away… It's Pegasus' fate to go down and get defeated by the bear's PAWS. Go Nowaguma! Anton evilly laughed.

Russian Bear Hook. Nowaguma calmly summoned his special move as Orso slammed Pegasus into the electrocuted cage over and over again.

This is bad!

Pegasus has to do something! Madoka and Hikaru expressed their concerns.

"The answer is obvious, Gingka." Akuma wished the battle was over already.

Nowaguma turns up the heat with its rage of attacks! Rock Orso rages! That's like the front paws of a beer as it delivers a barrage attack! DJ growled with excitement.

What is he? He has defensive power and a strong attack power too?! Gingka was at a loss on how to turn the battle around.

By using Rock Orso's heavy weight to attack, each strike has unimaginable destructive power. Tsubasa figured it out.

If its defence is like a hibernating bear then its offence is like a furious bear that has just been rudely woken up! DJ said with a bassy voice.

Go Pegasus! Gingka shouted as the winged horse waited till the last second before dodging underneath Orso and flipping the bear towards the cage.

Holy heartbreak! This turn Rock Orso gets a taste of the electric current. DJ commented.

Nowaguma!

Don't quit Nowaguma, just win and we're bound for outer space. Lera and Aleksey cheered on.

Rock Orso counterattacks! It's nearly got Pegasus in its claws. Orso closed on the blue bey before pushing it out of the stadium and dragging its opponents across the electrified fence.

Check out Rock Orso's fearsome counter attack! The electric current shocks Pegaus again. DJ mocks.

Orso, push it, push it! Nowaguma commanded.

Hold on Pegasus! Gingka begged his partner to hold on.

The sparks are flying! These massive attacks are forcing Pegasus to submission.

Not good… The longer this battle drags out, the greater Rock Orso's chances with its superior stamina. Tsubasa was slowly losing hope of his teammate winning.

Also if it continues to take damage from the electric current, the first one to use up all of its power will be Pegasus! Madoka added.

Now what? Pegasus can't fly! It can't unleash its full power. Somehow I have break free from the stinking cage-

ARGGG. Nowaguma growled.

There's no time to think! Smash your way out Pegasus! Gingka had enough of coming up with a plan and did what he does best, improvise as Pegasus slipped free from Orso's grip and landed back in the stadium but Orso wasn't letting its prey run away.

No way! Pegasus is charging Orso just like a runaway train! DJ and the crow couldn't believe what Gingka was thinking while Anton smiled, thinking it was all over.

Pegasus is sent flying by Rock Orso's ferocious attack, is this the end? DJ asked the audience.

Yes. Nowaguma was confident till Gingka demanded Pegasus to fly.

No way! Anton couldn't believe Gingka used his opponents strength to his advantage as Pegasus used the momentum from Orso's attack to fly even faster.

This is the only thing I can do to win! We have to break through this rotten cage and reclaim the sky! Break through Pegasus!

Impossible! That cage was made of impenetrable alloy! Anton's jaw dropped as Pegasus broke through.

SPECIAL MOVE: STARBOOSTER ATTACK!

No, I won't quit, special move: Russian bear claw. Nowaguma summoned his own special move but it was futile as Pegasus crashed through Orso without much effort, causing a gigantic blue explosion and when the smoke had disappeared, Orso had crashed into the cage and stopped spinning.

The bey that has come to a complete stop is Rock Orso! The… The winner is Gingka of GanGan Galaxy! DJ announced.

Yeah baby! Gingka celebrated his victory as Pegasus returned to his hand.

Nicely done Gingka! Hikaru congratulated her teammate.

Purposely taking the opponent's attack and using its power was brilliant. He's as rash as always. Tsubasa complimented.

That was a typical Gingka move… But considering they've created such a completely unfair stadium for the first match here, I wonder what they've got up their sleeves for the next one? Madoka wondered as they uninstalled the cage.

Took your time. Akuma bemoaned.

Everyone, ugh. Nowaguma collapsed to his knees from exhaustion as his teammates rushed to his side.

That's too bad. I had considered that might possibly happen. Until next time then. Anton irritately said as he left.

I'm sorry everyone, the dream-

It's alright, we're not done yet!

We will win next time, our dreams are still alive OK? Lera and Aleksey had yet given up hope as they looked over to their opponents who celebrated their win.

Masamune's location

OK kid, here we are. The pilot said.

Thank you sir, uh, where exactly is the stadium? Masamune wondered as he looked down, not seeing it.

There's a train station nearby so you can go the rest of the way on your own. The pilot revealed.

Huh! Are you telling me you're not going to take me all the way there?! Masamune was baffled; he was just told that now.

Sorry but we're not allowed to cross the national border, well see ya! The pilot said his goodbye as he ejected Masamune without much of a warning.

What? AHHHHH! No way, no way! Masamune shitted himself as he was suddenly parachuting down to the ground.