A/N: Hello!

I am back with another fanfiction, this time for Kane/Salima. I never expected this fic to turn out so long. I can never imagine writing a manga fic like this. I had no time to proofread. Regardless, the Psykicks were fun to write. They deserve all the love.

DISCLAIMER: This fanfiction has been directly adapted from the Beyblade Manga and not the Beyblade Anime. Details of events from manga largely differ from the anime, except for the overall plot. Character designs and features will also vary. A few anime-exclusive characters may be there, but they aren't relevant enough.

(1) The Psykicks are under Zagart's control in the Manga, whereas Gideon had them under his control in the anime
(2) Leon Zagart is Zagart's younger brother.
(3) This fic is set almost three years after the Beyblade Rising Manga [The Psykicks are 15-17 years old]


Project and Love ~

A handful of years have passed since team Psykick's battle against the BBA team. Doctor Zagart hired hundreds of genius bladers around the world in an attempt to seize the four sacred bit-beasts. However, those plans failed and barely anyone debated the Psykicks afterward. They are among the least recognized teams, considering the likes of the BBA team or the Demolition Boys. Is it because the team leader Kane Yamashita failed to enhance their reputation positively? Or is it due to Zagart's dirty tricks of drawing young children into such acts?

The Psykicks were summoned to Zagart's office after a long time. The team was partially functional, but the four had lost touch with Zagart. Kane and Jim were assembled at the entrance, waiting for the other two to catch up. Jim was restless, considering the gap between the current day and the last time they saw Zagart. Kane read him like a book and assured him, "Relax, Jim. I can sense your nervousness."

Kane was also responsible for putting his team in place. He guided his teammates in Beyblading. Goki is the oldest member, but Kane has the ideal leadership skills. The battle against the BBA team did have an impact on him. He realized how much of a jerk he was to rely on some broken bit-beast that was not built on fair grounds, arguably illegal. He reminisced about his past cockiness and ruthless behavior. He almost killed both Kyouju and Takao during the battle. Goki, Jim, and Salima fought a three versus three-battle with Kai, Max, and Rei. Kane and Takao fought alone. Kane realized he was extremely evil, desiring only raw power. His added intelligence made it challenging for Takao to bring him down.

The Psykicks barely interacted with other teams, assuming others were aware of their actions. A strange feeling washed over his face. He was reluctant to open up about his feelings to his team. He probably assumed they would consider him weak for venting out his emotions. Arguably, they felt like an outcast. Kane blamed himself for everything. The perspective of letting his team down struck him like multiple thunderstorms on his chest.

A teal-haired teen stepped out, reaching out to Kane.

"Hi, Yamashita Kane. Leon Zagart here. It's a pleasure to meet you again," he bowed down.

Kane nodded and acknowledged his greeting.

"Where are the others? I heard it's four of you," Leon asked him.

"I apologize for the delay. They will show up in a few minutes," Kane assured Leon.

Goki and Salima rushed to the gate. Kane and Jim sighed with relief as they saw the duo strolling in.

"I almost assumed you guys ditched," Jim remarked.

"Baka, the traffic was unreal. We were stuck. We planned on reaching here earlier," Goki muttered.

"I thought Salima took too long to do her makeover," Jim bit his tongue. He stole some stares from Salima. Goki cackled at his joke, meanwhile, Kane facepalmed.

"I just smeared some sunscreen, nothing more," her vein popped out.

"Guys, shall we abstain from this for some time? Let's get going," Kane intervened and came to her defense. She thanked him before walking by his side.

Goki and Jim followed the leading trio. Leon and Kane had some discussions while Salima was a passive listener. Jim couldn't stop sighing at the antics. Goki stayed quiet.

Leon led them to Zagart's room. He was seated on a rolling chair and a big table with some documents and a flower vase was present. Anxiety was swelling up among the four bladers. Leon moved a few inches away from them. Kane looked up and faced the middle-aged bearded man.

"A great pleasure to meet you and your team again, Kane. You all have grown up; I must say this for sure. I bet you all are high schoolers now, just like my son," Zagart chuckled.

Zagart's attitude was unexpected. The four were shocked. Kane managed to cast a smile and conceded his greeting. He noticed Salima's hand shivering out of nervousness. Being the only girl added to it. She tied both her arms to the back and breathed slowly.

"It's good to meet you again, Doctor Zagart. We are looking forward to whatever has to come."

"You have changed a lot, Kane. You sound like a gentleman. And Salima, you have grown up as a fine lady, but still a little shy like you used to be."

Goki and Jim could almost punch his face for creating such an awkwardness. Boomers never change.

"Goki and Jim are always together, as usual," Zagart's assistant from the side added a commentary.

"Alright, I have a few things to discuss. Mimiko will guide you to the guest room. Have some refreshments."

Mimiko took the bunch of teens to the guest room. A few maids in Kimono arrived and gave them a cup of green tea each. Jim was flattered by the beautiful maids to pamper them, while Goki was embarrassed. Kane couldn't help but laugh it off, while Salima was unclear of how to react.

Zagart had to meet Mr. Daitenji for an emergency, so his assistant Mimiko headed to the teens. "Doctor Zagart is busy, I am sorry he cannot catch up. I will explain everything to you guys. As far as Beyblade technology is concerned, it's advancing as years pass," she adjusted her throat as she laid down some documents.

"We look forward to intelligent kids joining up for a program, conducted by the PPB Research Center in the United States. The Head Director of PPB, Doctor Judy Mizuhara wants to hire you guys till the end of this project. Before we proceed, we need your consent."

The idea was great. This project could help them gain some reputation for their team, rather than leaving it off. But they couldn't care less about reputation stuff. But, the constant fear of being targeted by the other teams freaked them a bit, because of their past actions. Kane and Jim were interested since they were the smartest of the four. Kane's IQ of 200 and Jim's nerdiness might be useful for Judy. Goki and Salima, help the team stay calm in every situation. Kane has a share for it. He does everything. That's the reason they chose him as the leader.

"Kane, you will lead your teammates, as usual."

Kane nodded his head, "Sure, it's my responsibility."

The four signed a few documents. Jim mailed Judy through the E-mail to send their consent. In a couple of minutes, Judy responded to the mail.

Within two days the Psykicks would fly to the United States to take up the Project. It was quite small and would be over in less than a week.

Zagart booked a hotel owned by his millionaire sister, which was fifteen minutes from his headquarters. He booked a two-bedroom for the guys and a single bedroom for Salima.

Goki and Jim played Table Tennis in the hotel while Kane talked to his mother over the phone. Salima was alone in her room, unpeeling the facemask and cucumber from her face. She took her phone and keys and ventured to get some fresh air. Kane was still over the phone. He gestured to her with a small wave before disconnecting the call. She advanced a little closer to him. Strangely, she had always found his company so inviting even when alone. She has a small crush on her captain, which she has never shared with anyone. He was attractive to her eyes - soft blue hair, attractive jawline, and a pair of emerald eyes holding so much depth like a lush of dense green forests. It's been five years, and he has grown up as a charming teenager.

Was it just infatuation, or true love? She never knew them. She had something peculiar for him. She also noticed he had a soft spot for her. The teenagers' psychology is complex, isn't it?

"Hey, Salima," the bluehead smiled softly at her.

"Well, are you comfortable in your room?" he randomly initiated a talk.

"Yeah, it's good."

"You can stay with us if you feel lonely there. Feel free to come and go."

"Sure, thank you."

The duo stayed there for a few minutes before going to the room. Salima sat on the bed while Kane was tapping on the keyboard of his laptop. He was preparing some notes and reading the manual Judy mailed to him.

"What are you looking at, Kane?"

"Reading."

Salima crept to his side and looked at the screen. It felt different to stay with a handsome boy in a silent room. Her hand gently touched his. She flinched a bit. Kane certainly didn't mind it. He moved an inch away, ensuring not to cause any discomfort to her, without realizing she loved his presence. "I'm sorry," Kane's voice hitched. Salima's cheeks turned crimson. She admired the way he was focused on reading it. Judy was interested in making a prototype Beyblade that would range from a lakh to two, almost matching the speed of an air rotor handpiece. A major disadvantage was its potential to cut down the opposing surface. Judy was experimenting with the type of alloys to use for those Beyblades. Salima knew science and invested her time in them, but she could never match Kane's intelligence in solving certain formulas. She is good in her academics, but she is not a genius like Kane.

He turned to his companion. She befuddled with the formulas jotted on the screen. Kane sighed and asked, "Problem?"

"Well, I'm just looking at those math and physics," she chuckled.

"Are they confusing?" he asked.

"Yep," she mused. Kane chuckled and continued zapping the keyboards.

"Do you want me to explain them, or would you prefer napping?"

"I may end up doing both, you know," she bit her lip.

"Well, the truth is, I'm still calculating. I may explain to you all guys tomorrow."

Salima got up from the couch and strolled to the kitchen. She prepared some coffee and placed it on the table beside Kane.

"Thanks, Salima," he took the cup and sipped the coffee slowly.

"Well, I am sorry if you are bored. I need to sort these formulas out."

"You need some break, genius," Salima teased. Kane scratched his head and laughed it off.

Jim and Goki returned after intense hours of table tennis. Jim also spent time playing badminton with random girls.

"Phew, I've never played Table Tennis for this long," Jim sighed and collapsed on the bed. Goki laid on the sofa, while Salima was out to bring some water for them.

"Did you make him coffee, Salima? Damn, you are the best example of women belonging to the kitchen," Jim fumbled.

"Don't forget Jim, that's the place where Knives are kept. One more word and this will become your doomsday," Kane warned him, adjusting his glasses.

Goki peeped into the kitchen, and luckily, Salima hadn't heard them.

"Sussy Baka, you keep defending her. I think you love her," Jim nudged his shoulders and teased him.

Kane threw deadly stares at the short American.

"We don't have anything like that. I defend her because she is the only sane person on our team."

"Do you mean we all are clowns?!" Jim yelled.

"Maybe you are one," Goki triggered him.

Kane closed his laptop and stretched himself after two hours on it. Salima bought three glasses of water with a knife kept on a tray. The guys gulped thickly as Salima advanced toward them. Jim retaliated to the water.

"Salima, I'm sorry! I didn't intend to mock you! Please keep the knife away!" Jim was freaked out.

"Mock me? When did you mock me?" Salima cocked an eyebrow.

Kane jumped off the bed and went to Salima. He was sweatdropping, "Well, Jim mocked one of the girls in the game center. We shall put the knife in its place then, please?" Kane held her shoulders. Salima's heart skipped a beat, and her face turned red instantly. The guy she admires deep down in her heart is holding her. She stood frozen. Kane waved before her face to knock her back to her senses, "Hey, Salima. Did you hear Jim earlier?"

"I heard nothing when I was in the kitchen. It's quite a distance from this bedroom, you know. But, oh well. I have no idea what guys discussed with each other," Salima shrugged.

Kane muttered to himself, "I mess up stuff. My brain switches off the moment I start convincing a girl."

"I bought this knife to chop the apples Ms. Mimiko gave us. Nothing more. I am not going to kill anyone here. And, you three. I want you guys to empty these glasses, right now," she said firmly.

The boys shuddered and picked up the glasses.

Salima walked to the kitchen, while the guys waited for her to fade outside their vicinity.

"Jim, you better keep your mouth shut," Kane yelled.

"You messed things further, baka," Goki remarked. Kane sighed and muttered, "Alright."

"But Kane, I can say that you behaved like her husband. The way you quoted knives in the kitchen says it all," Jim added.

"I said shut your mouth, Baka!" Kane yelled. His face turned red out of embarrassment.

"And Jim, please stop playing Cupid. You need to help me sort out the formulas," Kane added. Jim sighed, "You know, I'm diagnosed with insomnia. I'm not advised to stay awake during the night. Give me now, I'll try to solve a few before bedtime." Jim grabbed his laptop and opened the files. Jim managed to read the manual earlier. Jim is a nerd and a bookworm. The job suits him better.

"I feel so useless now. At least Salima is trying to make that up," Goki heaved. Kane patted his shoulders and muttered, "Well, you go downstairs and catch a table for dinner. That would be a great deal of help. If you're hungry, you can start eating. Take Salima with you. We'll catch up later."

"Well, alright then."

The rush was unreal. Goki and Salima managed to catch a table amidst the crowd ruckus. They never expected them to show earlier. Maybe, it's not a resort. It's a hotel. The hotel was famous for its buffet system. Goki went to look around, while Salima stayed at the table. She waited for Kane and Jim to show up. Her mind dwelled with overflowing thoughts.

'Kane's been taking too much pressure on himself. We haven't bladed in some competitions since our loss to the BBA team. We all changed after that incident. We felt like Doctor Zagart had trapped us for his benefit. But, we later understood he had to do this for the sake of his deceased son. We felt like we were using and throwing material for adults. Now, Doctor Zagart is trying to compensate for everything. I don't know how to put this. Kane is taking up all the blame. He doesn't have to. He may be the leader, but the mistake lies in all of us. We should've never agreed to use the cyber bit-beasts.'

Salima stared at the glass of water placed on the table. It was difficult to get over the past incidents, don't they?

The team had always bottled up their emotions deep inside, but never had the opportunity to vent them out. The other teams had connected, except for them and Saint Shields maybe? They used to be the infamous Psykicks after all. They had no reason to be the outcasts of the Beyblading Era. Or, was it just an assumption? Maybe the latter.

"Hey, Salima. What's up?" Someone waved their hands in front of her face.

She jolted and looked up. It was none other than Kane. Jim had already joined Goki.

"Sorry, I was zoned out."

A wave of concern etched his face. He sat next to her.

"Didn't you start eating yet?" He mused.

"Well, no. For some reason, I just don't feel like eating anything."

"Have something light, at the least. You didn't have those apples either. Come, let's have a wholesome meal."

Salima nodded and followed him to the counter. Jim was seen talking to a familiar girl. Kane and Salima joined them.

"Kane! Salima!" the girl squealed.

"Kane, did you forget her? She is Leon's cousin, Merlyn."

"Hi, Merlyn! Nice meeting you!" Kane stretched his hand to her.

"We did meet you once if I remember correctly," Salima added.

"Yes, and I heard from Leon that you guys were here. And mom has been super busy. I apologize if she isn't able to show up. She asked if you guys have a table here."

"Yes, we do have one!"

Merlyn spent the night chatting with the four while they had their dinner. She was quite close to Jim and they had connected even after their battle with the BBA team. She was also quite interested in Science and Technology, offering to help Kane and Jim with any additional work they had to do. The next day, they were called to meet Zagart for further updates regarding the Project. Merlyn would take them there in her car, and aid the team in any theory work they had to do. She was also responsible for planning their tourism after the project. Unfortunately, she wouldn't accompany them. She was given additional work by her mother to look after.

The four headed to their rooms after the dinner. Kane would stay up the night and complete the formulae work, while Salima offered to stay with him.

Jim and Goki slept in the guys' room, while Kane started his laptop work with Salima by his side. It was Jim who did this, but he was diagnosed with insomnia due to the same. Kane was intelligent enough to handle them.

"Am I disturbing you, Salima? You can sleep, I'll switch off the lights."

"No, I don't feel sleepy either. After all, you are working for the team," Salima chuckled. Despite the humor in her tone, Kane's worry amplified since dinner time.

"Salima, are you okay?" his tone was delicate.

"Why? I am fine. I slept well during the flight journey," she assured him.

Salima sat on the sofa and plugged in her earphones. She craved some music.

His eyes were fixed on Salima. He knew something was wrong. Was she in trouble? She had no appetite, and no urge to sleep. This was unlikely of her.

Kane worked for almost four hours straight. His legs ached for the lackluster physical activity. Salima was fast asleep, with her earphones off. His smile was delicate.

"Maybe, I caused too much trouble to you guys. I am sorry for everything," he muttered before pulling away her phone and the earplugs. He set them aside on the table. He bought a pillow placed it underneath her head, and wrapped a blanket on her. He positioned her safely before proceeding with his work.

Kane completed the necessary work by four in the morning. Salima was still sleeping soundly.

"Good work, Kane. Much appreciated. Only a genius like you can solve them," Zagart slowly read the amount of work he did. "But, at the cost of your sleep. You could've taken your time."

Kane's face was almost exhausted and drained from last night's work. The formulas were some theories and speculations, and the demonstration has not been performed yet. Goki and Salima went to arrange the necessary documents for their flight, while Kane and Jim stayed in Zagart's headquarters for the project work. Kane and Jim joined their friends later, for the necessary verification. The four returned to Zagart's office early in the afternoon.

After finishing the necessary work, Zagart appreciated them for the hard work and effort they put in.

"Leon will also join in this trip. I hope you won't mind it."

"Of course, we wouldn't," Kane assured Zagart.

"Please don't forget to take the white coats and the uniform I've given. They may be useful."

A maid bought them two sets of uniforms for each. A lavender shirt, with white formal pants and white coats. They thanked Zagart before collecting them.

"Alright, you guys just have one job. Keep the documents and VISAs safe. Ensure that you guys have a safe trip. I've informed Doctor Judy, and she will make the necessary arrangements. You will be directed to the PPB research center first. Then, you'll be heading to the hotel. Thus, have a good rest, especially you, Kane. Judy will appreciate your team."

"Sure, Doctor Zagart. Thank you very much."

The four headed back to the hotel and had an early dinner. Kane packed his stuff and slept earlier due to a lack of sleep the previous night. The rest arranged their passports and the documents neatly in a file. Salima offered to keep them in her bag.

"I am eager to visit the PPB Research Center! I've never been there for once. I am so enthralled," Jim said.

"I heard that Judy coaches the PPB team, right?" Goki asked.

"Yes, she is also Max's mother. But I heard Judy went on maternity leave afterward. She is staying with her family in Japan. She is doing some small research work then and there," Salima said.

"Judy used to work as a professor in a college, but she started her journey in the research center, funded by the American Government. She worked in the BBA Research Center for years. Right now, she is more concerned for her family. She has her younger daughter in elementary school now," Jim said.

"The baby girl must be cute!" Salima squealed.

"Max must also be there. I heard he goes to his Mom's place for vacation," Jim nodded.

"Alright, pack up guys. We have an early morning flight tomorrow!" Salima got up and set the alarm on her phone.

The flight journey was quite long. Goki and Jim sat together, while Leon, Kane, and Salima were in the same row in the other section. Kane was fast asleep on the plane. Goki and Jim watched a movie together on Kane's laptop. Salima and Leon talked with each other to pass the time. She listened to his story and more about his older brother's death. Salima was touched by it, and couldn't feel more sorry for him. Leon has always admired his older brother, but he was depressed over the fact that Zagart loved him more. Zagart was Apologetic to Leon after understanding him. He was his son too. He deserved all the love and affection.

"Well, I bet Kane must have worked hard for this project," Leon chuckled.

"Yeah, he works hard for our team. We are blessed to have him as our leader. Deep down, he is a nice guy. He used to be arrogant when we had the cyber bit-beasts, but he managed to get over them and understood his true worth." She smiled at her team captain.

It was late in the afternoon by the time they reached the Airport. The BBA arranged a bus for them. It's been years since everyone except Jim had visited America. But, Australia always had a higher standard of living. Kane is a mix of Japanese and Australian.

The center was quite secluded from the city. They couldn't help but marvel at the center. They bet it had many levels to explore. According to the plans, they will look around the center with the help of a guide.

Much to their surprise, Judy herself stepped forward to guide them around. She was dressed in her usual formal attire with a white coat on.

"Hi, kids!" she greeted them, lending her hand.

"Hi, Doctor Judy. It's a pleasure to meet you," Kane shook hands with her.

"Doctor Zagart texted me about your departure. I am glad to have you all here. You all must be tired. You can rest before we proceed to guide you around. Then we will have a look at the work you have done."

The PPB blading team stepped into the picture, eavesdropping the conversation. Jim nudged Goki and whispered, "Bro, what are those four nuggets doing there? Are they the PPB blading team?"

"Baka, you are the nugget here. The guys are taller than you. And yes, it must be them, the PPB team."

"Shall we challenge them for a match?"

"Better not lose to them."

"Jim! Goki! What's up there?" Kane yelled.

"I am sorry! I just wondered if I forgot the formula you solved, hahaha," Jim lied. Kane facepalmed and Judy chuckled.

"I think he is Jim, the nerd of your team, right?" Judy asked.

"Yes, I am Jim!"

"And I am Goki."

"Cool, take rest for fifteen minutes. I'll catch you guys up," Judy went to the nearby department.

"Hey guys," the leader of the blading team stepped into the picture. His team stood behind him.

"Huh? Are you the PPB team?" Kane asked.

"Yes, I am Michael. The Leader of the PPB team. Nice meeting you."

"I am Kane, Leader of Psykicks."

The captains exchanged a handshake while Emily waved at Salima. She smiled at the orange-haired tennis player.

"Isn't she pretty?" Jim chuckled.

"Baka," Kane twisted his ear. The other laughed along. While Kane, Jim, and Salima talked with them, Goki and Leon discussed stuff behind them.

Leon whispered, "I thought these guys weren't that nice. I thought we would have a ragging session first."

"I thought the same. Maybe, Judy asked them to control their tongues. They better behave, otherwise, they should answer my fists," Goki muttered.

"Maybe, they like people into science and stuff. I appreciate it," Leon sighed.

"Michael, isn't that Kane guy handsome?" Emily whispered to her captain.

"Emily, is that you? I can't believe it. But, am I not more handsome than him?" Michael adjusted his hair, intending to flaunt his charm.

"I will believe it when you get a girlfriend. Till then, stay in your delusional world," Emily mocked him.

"Sheesh, too bad Emily. You got a compliment, even if it was from that shrimp," Michael pouted.

Around a few minutes later, Judy approached them. She was ready to guide Kane and his team around the facility.

"I'm sorry for the wait. We shall start the small tour if the rest is enough."

"I can't hold my horses! I am itching to explore this place!" Jim exclaimed as he hastily got up from his seat. Judy was amused to see the eagerness radiating from him.

It easily took two hours to show them all the levels in the facility. Jim carefully examined each area with focus. He loved the advanced technology the space had. They competed with Zagart's headquarters in terms of infrastructure and advanced facilities. Kane showed his keen interest in the center, asking doubts and clarifying them with Judy. She almost read those kids like a book. They were smart and intelligent, potentially making her assistants run for money. To her eyes, Jim appeared as a bookworm, just like Emily. Kane seemed to be a calm and composed genius.

"Okay, kids. Let's have a tea break now. Then, I would love to review the work you all have done."

Emily joined Judy to stay by her side. She was curious to decipher their capability through his formulas.

Kane sat beside Judy as he opened his file. She read his work, and her jaw almost dropped. She couldn't believe her eyes. "Incredible…"

"Kid, you have no idea. None of us could ever speculate on such theories about Beyblades. The Math and Physics are unreal." She kept scrolling down. The document was quite long.

"Jim's assistance was also needed, ma'am."

"You kids… I couldn't believe this. You guys just made our work more efficient. Our Center would be more than welcome to have you here."

Emily adjusted her glasses. She understood those formulas, but how did the thought of enumerating those formulas stroke his mind?

"Why didn't our Center have scientists like these?" Emily kept scrolling slowly.

"Shit, this makes me feel very useless," Emily facepalmed and sarcastically chuckled.

"Well Emily, our Research Center is a small World," Judy remarked.

Kane was glad to present his hard work. It cost him the sleep and relaxation he could've had.

After another hour of discussion, the team departed and reached their designated hotel. Leon offered to stay back in the facility. He was testing some new Beyblades prepared by the facility. The rooms were booked in the same fashion as before. Kane just lay on the bed, giving his eyes a short break. Salima sat beside him and told stories. It was nice to stay alone with Kane. They both had common grounds in many things. Kane found her personality the most appealing of his teammates. Jim was his buddy, but Salima was the best companion he could ever wish for. Her words were always soothing for him. She was the best to engage with after distressing events.

"Hey guys! What's up?" Jim barged inside the room. Little did they realize the door was not fully closed.

Kane sighed and got up.

"Sussy baka, you love sleeping inside her room huh?" Jim nudged him. Kane's face turned beet and he smacked the short blonde on his head. Salima couldn't endure the embarrassment and the awkwardness of the situation.

"You guys spend time all alone. That gives me the impression of a lovey-dovey couple," Jim couldn't stop teasing them.

Salima turned to Kane, her face entirely crimson from what Jim had said earlier. Yet, she just wanted to smile, because she has a huge crush on her captain. Doesn't she?

"Jim, it's enough. Salima is not comfortable," Kane's mouth palmed, and turned his face away. While Goki and Jim ventured to the balcony, Salima stealthily turned to Kane and smiled at him. His face was buried on the pillow like a cute boy.

"Kane," Salima held his shoulder from behind.

"Hey, Sal. I am sorry for that," Kane sweat-dropped.

"Calm down, I know you didn't intend for it."

A few minutes of awkward silence passed by. Salima couldn't take her gaze off him. He was undeniably attractive. Not only that, he is the coolest captain she could ever have. Ever since his battle against Takao, he changed for the good. There were endless things she admired in him.

They heard someone knock on the door. Salima opened it, and much to her surprise, Max and Emily showed up.

"Yo Max!" Jim exclaimed and waved at him.

"Hi buddies," Max grinned as he entered the room with Emily.

"I just heard from Mom, and it wouldn't be nice if I didn't see you guys," Max said.

"That's fine, Max. You are more than welcome to hit us up anytime," Kane assured the American teen. Jim let both sit comfortably, while Salima gave them some juice.

"Mom just shared about you guys. I'm sure you will help Mom in the long go. She'll be glad."

"Sure, Max. We are there for her support," Kane reassured him.

The group had a fun time playing cards and chit-chatting. Little did they realize the time had gone so fast.

"I do understand the pressure you might've experienced during that time. That's not something easy to get over with. It's the constant fear of what people might think of you, ask you, and treat you. It's not easy to overcome. I appreciate your headstrong personality. You are a great captain," Max patted the blunette's shoulders.

"Thanks, bud. The period was rather challenging. I maintained my composure, but I still had those complicated thoughts. I felt I let my team down," Kane smiled weakly.

Salima stood beside Kane and held him by his shoulders, facing the others, "Guys, we should also understand this. Kane is not the only person responsible for the team. It's not just him, even we have made mistakes in the past. Goki, Jim. We shall not talk about this. Kane is always distressed when we reminisce about the cyber bit-beasts. That would not help him to move on. It's all over. The cyber bit-beasts are irrelevant now. Kane might be the captain of our team, but we should ensure he doesn't take too much pressure on himself."

Salima turned to her captain. They both stared deep into each other's eyes. Kane's eyes would almost turn tearful, but he refused to let go of his emotions. Salima was probably the one who understood what he truly felt.

Kane sarcastically chuckled.

"I'm sorry if I made you guys worried again. That's why, I am so pathetic. You all deserve way better. You all are too good for me," he got up and left the room.

"Shit," Salima muttered.

"Where is he going?" Emily asked her.

"He loves the terrace. He needs some time off," Salima said.

"From what he said, it doesn't seem like that to me," Goki added.

Jim glanced down the hallway. He waited near the lift and pressed to the last floor.

"Yes, he wants the terrace. I freaked out for a moment."

Salima and Emily went to the balcony. They could see the endless night sky. Their talk was wholesome. While Salima expressed concern for Kane, Emily tried her best to console her.

"Kane is a good guy, he was a very confident captain. I can never understand why he would say such things. Probably, the past had a baneful impact on him. I want to do my best to support him," Salima's eyes were undeviated from the stars.

"Hey, Salima. If you don't mind, shall I ask you something?"

"Sure, Emily," Salima smiled, hiding the nervousness within.

"By any chance, do you love Kane?"

The question caught her off-guard. Little did she expect her to enquire about her relationship with Kane.

"May I know why you asked me this?"

"The way you express your inner thoughts made me feel so. You understand him better than anyone else. I have seen many girls caring for their male counterparts. Mao was the same. It's easy to tell that she loves Rei. Your care and affection for Kane are in a different league. He is blessed to have you."

Salima bent her chin down, smiled, and looked at Emily.

"Thanks for the compliment, Emily. This question is quite complex to answer. I'm not sure what the feeling is. I've admired my team captain more than anything else. Some may feel he was arrogant and evil in the past, but nobody knows him in-depth. He is an amazing person. He cares so much for us. He takes the blame for the team and works hard day and night. He is the sole reason why we are here. I do have a crush on him, but my heart no longer feels the same. It has evolved into something better. He is just something. Undeniably, he is attractive. However, that's not the only good thing about him. My reason for adoring him is different."

Salima's response moved Emily. She held Salima's shoulders, "Listen, Sally. Understand one thing. Never have any doubt regarding your feelings. It's crystal clear that you love him. You don't have to complicate it. Am I clear?" Her voice was etched with concern.

Salima looked at her, smiled, and nodded.

"Thank you, Emily."

"His personality was good, based on what I've observed. You both make a cute couple. Never let go of him, okay?"

"I will never let of him. I'll keep fighting for our love."

"But also, never let go of your self-worth. I do feel he will make you love yourself more than ever. He will never let you down," Emily winked.

"I craved for these words, Emily. I can't thank you enough."

"It's my pleasure, Sally. I've always roasted the guys, but I genuinely feel for you. He will make a good boyfriend material."

"Of course, he does," Salima laughed.

"Alright, I am going to check on Kane now."

Salima left the room and reached the terrace. There was a swimming pool with deckchairs placed around. The counter for drinks was near the pool. A separate platform was around fifty feet away from the pool. The view was the best there. She could see the blunette standing there.

Salima gulped thickly before advancing close to him. Kane heard the familiar footsteps but he didn't care to turn back.

"What brings you here, Salima?"

Salima stood beside him and responded, "Come, let's have dinner. "

"Please be honest. Do you think I deserve the love and affection from you guys?"

Salima's face was etched with anger, yet affection, "Of course you do! You didn't do anything wrong! Am I making it clear? It was not your mistake! Please, don't act like this! This is not the Kane I knew! There is only one thing you need to do as a team leader. Never show your weakness to anyone. You are a human being. You have flaws. And, I am repeating this. We used the cyber bit-beasts, just like you. We were manipulated, just like you. We showed our arrogance and cockiness in the past, just like you. Just get over it!"

Kane's emotions couldn't help but overflow into tears. He couldn't hold them back anymore. Salima was the only one capable of exposing his vulnerable side.

"Well, I am sorry if I went overboard," she murmured.

"I am sorry, I am being a jerk, again. I failed to understand you guys. I felt guilty for making you guys worried for me, that's all."

"I know that, Kane. You couldn't take it, right? You love us, just like we do."

Kane wiped his tears and laughed.

"I bet you are hungry. It's time for dinner. Let's go."

The duo went back to the room. The others were surprised to see him back, with a smile on his face. Jim and Goki hugged him.

"Buddy, you are the best leader! We have every right to worry for you. Stop feeling guilty, Baka!" Goki yelled at him.

"Yes, stop this nonsense, Kane. We almost took the ledge off for you," Jim teased him.

"Alright guys, time for dinner!"

Max and Emily received prior permission for a dinner with the Psykicks. Leon still hadn't returned from the facility. They decided to buy him parceled food instead.

Max and Emily left the place after the dinner. Leon returned late at night. He politely refused the dinner due to the lateness. He managed to eat the parceled food despite it being cold. Kane and Leon left for the bed earlier, while Jim played some video games. Goki was preparing for the bed. Salima changed into her pajamas and sprayed her light deodorant before the good night's sleep. The day was rather draining both physically and emotionally. Plenty of rest was required for all of them.

A handful of days have passed since the project commenced. The kids were efficient with their work, dedicating most of their time to the project. Kane was instructed to work with Judy and Emily. Jim worked under the supervision of Douglas, while Goki and Salima shifted between all the departments. Their work was crucial to connecting the dots to prepare the Beyblades with the highest number of revolutions. They stayed up late for two nights to complete a fair amount of work. Judy utilized the team efficiently.

Finally, it was time to test the most advanced Beyblade. Judy and her subordinates prepared the required apparatus and machinery in the underground. The final testing had to be done away from the common crowd. The collateral damage will never be excused. The Psykicks and the PPB blading team were present there.

"Kids, listen. We will start testing the blades now. Keep yourself safe. Move further as much as possible. We will run the program now."

Kane instructed his team to move back. Judy's scientists were ready to begin the test. The required machinery was turned on, activating gradually, and then at a faster rate. The test blade was spinning on a leveled slide.

"It still has not reached a lakh yet. Activate the power!" Judy shouted.

After the activation, the blade's value crossed five lakh revolutions per minute. The activation was very sensitive, and the blade was not controllable.

"It's reaching off-charts! It may reach ten lakh revolutions!"

The machinery made weird noises.

"This is not good news. Reduce the activation!"

The power was reduced, but it was too late when the values reached off-charts. The capacity was too high to handle.

"Run, everyone!" Judy ordered. The scientists moved in different directions, as far as possible. Kane and his team ran toward the opposite direction, but Salima accidentally tripped on a rock. Kane turned back to see her.

"Salima!" he yelled.

Large boulders of rocks were directed to their side, but he managed to take her away and move farther. Leon, Goki, and Jim moved to the basement with the PPB team. The duo was stuck with no way to exit. The entrance was blocked.

"Damn it!" Kane cursed and clung to a corner. Salima held him tighter.

Fortunately, they were safe from the area of damage. The mini earthquake caused by the machinery came to a halt. Kane confirmed it. He and Salima were stuck, with no way to go out.

"Kane, I am so sorry. It was my fault. I was a dead weight," Salima was worried.

"Hey, that's fine. You don't have to apologize. That was just an accident," he assured her.

"Is there a way to get out of here?"

"Let's not try anything. We'll mess things up further. They'll arrange people for rescue. Relax."

Salima deciphered his gentleness from his voice, amidst the vulnerable state.

"Kane, I think I injured my leg," Salima raised her ankle. She could walk, but Kane noticed a small bruise above her ankle. He lifted her pants and yanked her sock to reveal it.

"Oh shit, I wish I could've saved you a bit earlier. I am sorry."

"You saved me during that grave situation. Otherwise, I would've been dead. There was nothing for you to apologize after all."

Kane found a handkerchief inside his pocket. He gently tied around her leg before adjusting her pants.

"Thank you very much for all the help. This is not enough," Salima smiled.

"It's my pleasure, Salima."

Salima leaned closer to him by the side. Without a second thought, he wrapped an arm around her shoulder. His inner conscience spiked the moment he realized it. His hand reached out involuntarily. He couldn't take it back.

Salima's cheeks turned hot. She turned to him and stared deep into his eyes. Then, her coy persona took over the moment she looked down.

"Kane, I have something important to tell you. I can no longer keep this to myself. I hope you won't mind it but…" Salima paused. Kane eagerly waited for her answer.

"Kane… I love you with all my heart!" she yelled. Her voice was a bit tearful, yet with a mix of emotions. She was brave to convey her true feelings for her team captain. She noticed him froze and startled, deeply fathomed by her confession. Her confession kept echoing in his ears. There was no running away from it. For all these years, little did he consider or notice the amount of closeness they had. Of course, they weren't romantic, but the precious friendship he shared with the female. That potentially evolved into a deep love, yet confession from her side alone.

Kane gasped for a moment, before retaining his senses. Little did he notice that she tugged her head on his chest.

"K-Kane, I couldn't hold my feelings anymore. I know we are supposed to focus on getting out of here, but I can never get a good chance like this. I complicated this too much, but I am confident I love you. I don't think it's just an infatuation."

Salima's anxiety welled up. How would Kane react to this?

Kane helped her part away from him. He firmly held her arms and confessed, "Salima, by no means do I intend to disappoint you. I appreciate your honesty. But, I am not sure if I am ready to pursue these feelings yet. Remember this, Salima. I deeply admire you. I am grateful to have you on my team. My days would've been difficult without you by my side. You were the emotional connection to this team. Our team is incomplete without you. You are an adorable girl, Salima. You are my comfort person. At the end…" his cheeks flushed before resuming, "... it would be unfair if I am not true to myself. I've always had a soft spot for you. It's always different to be around you. I could always sense a profound sense of affection for you. Yet, I've wondered if I ever deserve all your kindness. You are too precious, Salima. I wouldn't mind if you tell this again. I mean… umm… maybe when we grow up?"

The words struck her hard and deep. Their stares intensified. His words soothed her soul. She was satisfied. His confession was rather different from what she had expected.

"Kane, would you mind if I came back to pursue again in the future, if we are too young to stay in a relationship?"

He chuckled and gently drew her closer, "Do whatever your heart says, Salima. I am eager to explore more of myself before I can get with someone who can make me love myself more than ever. There is so much in life I would love to discover, and explore during these years. By then, I would be a better human when I open up about these little feelings, Salima."

Salima quickly buried herself in Kane and grasped him closer. He gently held her and rubbed her spine. He savored the moment before the privacy would be ended.

The rescuers reached the spot within an hour. They slowly dug out the blocked path. The duo was provided with some oxygen masks and water to hydrate themselves. Jim and Goki knew no end after they stepped out.

"Guys! We were worried for you all! We thought you guys were buried!" Jim cried.

"Cool Jim. We secluded to a corner. Salima tripped and it was too late to drag her close to the exit."

"Remove the coats, kids," Judy instructed them.

Kane and Salima obeyed her, before resuming to drink the water.

"I'm surprised, you guys seemed cool and relaxed," Judy mused.

"It's because of Kane," Salima smiled before turning to Kane.

"I bet you guys had a little romance out there!" Jim teased them again. They flustered before Kane hit him on the head.

"Baka, shut up!" Kane yelled. Judy sighed at Jim's little antics.

"I think the little book nerd is also a naughty kid, I suppose," she chuckled.

"And, regarding the results of our project. It's not deemed a failure, as of yet. The issue was with one of our devices, which had internal damage. I am extremely sorry for the inconvenience. We will sort this issue out and enable a safe-testing mode. Everything was perfect with the formula work and the application. It's a partial success," Judy gave a thumbs up.

The four were delighted to hear the news. Their hard work never went in vain.

"We did it!" Jim squealed around before Goki choked him with the intent to hug. Salima entwined her fingers with Kane's and smiled.

"That's good news, Kane," she nodded.

Emily joined in a few minutes later, opening her laptop to show the results. The four read those with focus. Kane deciphered a few things and helped his teammates in reading them.

"Alright guys, we all crave a long break. We shall go to a nearby restaurant for lunch. Do take some rest, I'll come back," Emily was about to leave the room. She looked at Salima and gestured to her. 'Did everything go well?"

Salima gave a thumbs-up. 'Yes, it did.' Emily was glad.

"Okay, I gotta help Judy with the broken apparatus," Jim left the room, with Goki following him. It leaves Kane and Salima alone again.

"I think we will have another round of a well-deserved rest," Kane leaned on the bed, while Salima helped him out.

"How was this experience, Salima?" he asked.

"I loved it, but more than that," she paused, "I cherished every moment with you, Kane."

"So did I," he mused.


A/N: Alright, I hope I didn't mess this up. This might seem a bit long and tedious. I Missed writing a teenage love for Kane/Salima.

Thanks for reading!
-Niki.