Shu X Valt
Timeline After BBB DB
💕 Shalt ❤️💙 Day 🌈 Special 💓
GUYS! Guess what is today? 🤩 Look at the Date! It's 04/08 means...
WHEEE ✨💓 Happy 🌀💫 Shalt ❤️💙 Day 🌈💕
🌬️🎶 Happy 4th August! 🌻🌼
So where I live, this week is celebrated as 'Friendship Week' so I'm writing Friendship Day and Shalt Day combination Chapter 💞 Hope you'll like 😇
Today I'm presenting my Shalt Day gift 🎁 to y'all! Please Enjoy~ ✨
(It's gonna be hella loooong as I'll give my heart 💓 out for this day lol)
✯✧★ｏ☆♡☆ｏ★✧✯♡✯✧★ｏ☆
Third Person's POV
At Tokyo, Japan
August in Japan is hot, hot, hot - but don't let the heat put you off.
Albeit quite hot, Japanese summer is absolutely gorgeous as it's also one of the most beautiful, spectacular, and fun times of year to visit.
Colorful, and rich of events, festivals, and entertainment to complement the amazing sights...
**
... At Beigoma City...
After getting permission from Kris to return back to Japan, the first thing that stood out to Vait was the bey stadium in the Bey Park.
In the way he stopped at the riverside which was used to be his 'Special training area'.
Where he would tied up a tier behind his back to practice push ups and a tied rope with a tree branch to practice blind launches.
He smiled at those memories when his younger siblings made fun of him when he failed or lost his balance. Golden precious 'Memories' of becoming the person and Blader he's today.
Standing in the gateway of the Bey park, a brewing feeling of nostalgia swept across him while he observed a group of boys younger than him by 3-4 years.
Seeing those two bladers reminded Valt of when he used to train in the park where this bey arena is present.
Most of the time, his friends would tag along and they would spend all day battling their hearts and souls out.
Those memories shone warmly in his mind for a moment before a lingering sadness started to replace it.
His friends... How're they doing now? It's been a long time since he's contacted any of them after the final Tournament and the final battle between Rashad and Bell.
Contacting them now wouldn't be an issue anymore since he's their phone numbers. He felt an urge to grab his phone and dial them.
He felt this urge many times, but never acted further on it. What would he say to them? What was there to say?
He's imagined they were doing well themselves in their own teams. He remembered that Diago was planning on travelling abroad with his AS Gallus team.
Ken was starting his career as a famed ventriloquist in Japan and probably would get to experience some incredible battles around the world during his tour.
Wakiya would never let himself stay in Japan as the director of WBBA and dwindle alone, so he probably was somewhere trying to put up his own team Sunbat United to the top.
Rantaro wouldn't want to fall behind and surely also went out to seek for beyblading competitive opportunities after taking a short time leave from BC Sol.
In BC Sol others are doing great. Kris and Grandpa Raul managing the team, Ange making Bladers happy by her tasty dishes, Kitt, Sasha, Cuza, Silas were training to be more better in their skills.
Free's like usual training in his own in the woods and Valt's heard that he's gonna do an wild adventure... Who knows...
Lui, the cold winter knight or 'baby shark' training hard in his scary dragon island. 'Heh', Valt grinned thinking about how many sharks are guarding that island if he'd ever wondered.
Aiger also trying hard to beat Valt in the next champion title, you bet it's not gonna be easy as Valt won't let him without a fierce battle.
Valt smiled a little. His former students, Delta and Dante are doing great at the Victories and he's glad the two are getting along very well.
And don't forget about our duo Sun Bladers, Hikaru and Hyuga. They're like blast off in the tournaments to be the best.
Bell, our little demon king and prankster in his so called haunted castle, hasn't left Rasad without getting the hell out of him and his friends Illya, Ranzo, Basara and his sister Hannah while Bell's grandpa managing that troublesome child. Poor Gramps...
And lastly and more preciously... Shu... His amazing best friend whom he treasures the most.
Valt couldn't help but smile at the thought about him. He's maybe so busy in managing his team Raging Bulls.
That albino has alot of pressure on his shoulders, Valt felt bad for him. Shu sometimes overwork himself and suffers being so stressed.
How many times Valt tried to convince him not to become work alcoholic but who listens...
So at the last instead of Shu being the great lecturer, Valt becomes the one who ends up lecturing him about this.
But still life goes on and Valt knows nothing gonna convince that great Kurenai so he gave up but still he contact with Fubuki to watch after his responsible mentor.
And Fubuki put Trad to manage Shu when he's off his limits and Valt is very grateful for that.
"Oh Valtryek! It's been 7 years of my blading career but I feel like I've started a day ago. Isn't time fly so fast? What do you say partner?", Valt glanced at his Bey as Valtryek shone in the morning sunlight.
"Oh yes it's been so long. I'm surprised that you actually counted the years without any mistake", a familiar voice startled him as he spun around to see his favourite person in the world according to Valt or who knows what.
"OMG! SHU! What are you doing here? Shouldn't you be at Bulls at this time?", Valt asked in surprise.
"Ya of course I would until your little spy Fubuki and his great supporter Trad kicked me out from the office after yesterday's meeting till midnight", Shu said out sarcastically while rolling his eyes.
Valt chuckled, "Suits you". "Com'on Valt it's not right! Alot of things to do in the Bulls and I'm pretty sure those two aren't gonna manage everything properly though", Shu said in a worried tone.
"I'm sorry but maybe they're right. Look I'm not so knowledgeable about your works but I'm sure they'll do what's best for you", Valt showed a genuine smile.
"*Sigh* I'm glad Lane didn't join the two's company though", Shu let out a sigh.
"Well then. Guess like they wanted to let you out from pressure", Valt commented.
"I guess. But it's also from starting you. If Ashtem hasn't disappeared I won't be the one managing Bulls. Sometimes I wonder how Theodore managed to do these things like seriously", Shu groaned.
"If I wasn't there maybe he would've abstract you and instead of being here you would've been leading Snake Pit", Valt smiled sadly.
"Na that hasn't happened because you brought me to the light for the brightest upcoming future though how much stressing it is", Shu smiled a bit as Valt sighed.
They all had promising futures, with Valt being the shining beacon of light among them. 'That's the thing...', Valt thought to himself.
'I used to have a promising future but... Now I'm stuck clawing my way to the top in my story', Valt spared a glance at the pretty albino next to him and caught Shu's eyes that wandered around them as if looking for something interesting to do.
His lips were slightly parted and his eyebrows slightly furrowed.
Valt noticed that Shu had this expression whenever he was focused, whether it be on small tasks such as this or intense training, that look was a common appearance.
'It's cute', Valt thought and quickly looked away when Shu caught him staring.
On second thought, would he even still be a part of their group anymore? Everything that has happened for the past few weeks felt so out of the loop.
As well, he doesn't remember their phone numbers by heart instead it's saved on this phone memory.
The only number he has ingrained in his memory was Shu's and that was for obvious reasons. Valt glanced curiously to catch a glimpse of Shu's expression.
The albino, with narrowed eyes, slightly frowned as he was watching the match taking place between the younger Bladers.
Valt followed his gaze and immediately understood. Valt couldn't hear clearly what was being said but he heard the pleading tone of the Blader, begging to be spared.
The shorter Blader raised his foot, about to stomp the bey that lost to him.
'He's about to crush that Bey!...', was Vait's instant thought as he bolted towards the arena.
"HEY! What do you think you're doing?", Valt yelled as he ducked below the boy's foot to protect the bey from being shattered into pieces.
He winced as he expected his hands to be crushed by the incoming foot of doom. However, the feeling of sharp pain never came.
Valt looked up and saw that Shu was also standing right by his side. He was holding shorter blader's leg up firmly in a deadlock grip.
"H-hey! That hurts! What the heck? Let go of my leg!", The short boy screamed as he tried to kick away the stranger that suddenly appeared. With an intense glare, Shu relented and finally let go of him.
"Valt! That was dangerous, you could have gotten yourself hurt", Shu said with the lack of a chastising tone but a worried expression.
"Well, I can't just stand here, seeing this kid's bey getting crushed by some bully!", Valt handed the bey to it's owner who stared at him with wide bewildered eyes.
"Beyblading should be fun, especially for kids their age, and seeing someone treating a bey like that is just so-", Valt expressed the last word by gesturing his hands around, waving them with a confounded expression.
Shu nodded thoughtfully, understanding where the Valtryek blader was coming from.
He didn't comment how they weren't that old themselves but he got Valt's point.
The albino also wasn't liking the situation. But for the bluenette to act out so rashly for someone he didn't even know... it seems like the old Valt didn't disappear completely after all.
"Who the heck even are you guys? Why did you do that!?", The short blader spat as his eyes burned with spite.
Valt wondered what caused such a friendly face to scrunch up like that with meanness.
He also noticed a green pendant dangling around the shorter blader's neck.
"We can ask you the same question", Shu responded, meeting the boy's gaze with a cold-eyed look.
The younger blader seemed to slightly shrink at the intimidation.
"Mind your own business!", The boy spat and turned towards the tanned boy, still crouching on the ground.
His eyes burned with a fueling hatred. Valt felt shivers go down his spine seeing the intensity of this little boy's glare.
Shu wasn't fazed though, he's seen many eyes quite similar to these in his early days at the Snake Pit.
The lower ranked bladers would also cast their eyes longingly on the Shadow Bladers, wishing with all their might that they could be the ones behind them.
Shu's also gotten used to the hateful stares of envy he would get at the Raging Bulls when he got special treatment, which was another reason he left in the first place.
It seemed that the gazes of jealousy didn't fade no matter where you were.
"Guess the deal's off then", Picking up his bey, the boy started to walk away.
The tanned boy's eyes widened in fear as he quickly got up and pleaded for the shorter blader to not leave, "Please! Give me another chance! You can't leave with my necklace, it belongs to me!"
Valt noticed the shade of the pendant matched his eyes. It just then clicked in his mind what the situation was.
Just before Valt would form these thoughts into words, Shu beat him to it.
"Oh? Does he have your pendant?", Shu questioned as he eyed the precious jewel hanging around the shorter boy's neck.
The tan boy whimpered with a nod. "And why is that?", Shu asked.
The taller blader looked away in embarrassment as he explained the situation.
"Finders Keepers! Have you never heard of that before?", The shorter boy spat back.
"By the way, you're a trash blader. Bad bladers don't deserve to own something this precious!", He added insulting the other one.
"T-that's NOT how it works!", He stammered, caught off guard.
He didn't expect him to have such a reason like that. Valt rolled his eyes at the shorter's childish behavior.
Shu cringed. Regardless of the reason, stealing was wrong.
The two young bladers continued to squabble at each other and Shu shook his head with a sigh.
All this 'being the best' nonsense from these kids was silly. They didn't know what beyblading truly was.
Shu sighed once more after seeing the fight become more heated before starting to walk away.
He linked Valt's arm around his and started to take a few steps but Valt wouldn't budge.
"Valt? Let's go", Shu said with a raised eyebrow.
"We don't want to get caught up in this childish mess more than we already have", he added.
"We can't just leave them alone", Valt replied.
He shook Shu's arm off and marched in between the young bladers, "Whyn't settle this with a match boys? Since you're here refusing to battle against the blader who already lost to you, I'll take you on. If I win, return his pendant".
Both boys became quiet. Valt compared the two sets of eyes.
One being dominant and shining with more fiery power compared to the lighter ones of the other.
"Why are you still here! Ugh, so annoying!", The shorter snarled.
"Back off, this has nothing to do with you!", He groaned.
Valt smirked and stared into his eyes, "What? Scared of a challenge?"
"Pfft! As if! So you're a blader huh?", He asked. "Sure I am!" Valt exclaimed.
The boy's eyes narrowed, "Tsk. Whatever. Tell me, why on earth should I allow you to battle me?"
Valt grinned and pulled out Valtryek. As if on cue, she shone against the sunlight and her blue hues glimmered attractively.
Something in the taller boy's eyes lit up. He was intrigued, "Wait is it?...." He blinked.
"Very well then, bring it on!", The shorter boy exclaimed, excitement coursed through his veins.
"On one condition. If you lose, you owe me something", he grinned.
Valt raised an eyebrow, "Something? Such as?"
"Something precious to you. Just like how the pendant is precious to that loser boy over there", he pointed.
"Hey! Don't call me that", the taller shouted. "Very well", Valt replied.
He rolled up his sleeve and took out a worn out blue bracelet.
"What is that? It doesn't look like it's worth much", the boy snarled.
"That's where you're wrong buddy. This bracelet is worth a lot more than rubies or gold to me. It's very precious to me since someone very important gave it to me. You can't put a price on sentimental things. Got it?", Valt replied firmly.
Shu's eyes widened and mouth went agape at the bracelet. It was a friendship bracelet he and Valt made for each other back in 4th grade.
He was surprised Valt still had it. "Y-you still have that?", He asked.
"Of course! It's one of my most prized possessions!", Valt turned towards the shorter boy.
"See? It's legit. So I'd say a fair stake to your requirements", he commented. Shu didn't understand why Valt would want to battle some random kid.
He was ready to risk losing something precious to him just to help someone else? Shu wasn't surprised.
That was who Valt was kind and full of surprises.
The shorter eyed the bracelet carefully then grinned, "Very well. But you better say your last goodbyes to that precious bracelet of yours because I'm taking it!"
"We'll see about that kid", Valt turned to face the other boy.
"Are you alright with this? Can I battle in your stead?", He asked.
The boy nodded his head, dumbstruck, seemingly still processing the situation, then gave Vait a thankful smile, "Yeah! Go for it! Uh..."
"My name's Valt", Valt smiled. "Right! Valt! Go for it Valt! I'm counting on you!", He exclaimed.
'Wait... HE'S THE VALT AOI! OH MY GOSH!', He internal screamed. He had a small spark of hope in his eyes and Valt was determined to protect it.
"Since I'm risking something precious here, you, I want you to also put something on the line. It's only fair after all", Valt said out.
"Hah?", The shorter boy snarled, but didn't refute.
"If I win, which I will, I want you to not only return the pendant to him but also give him a proper apology", Valt continued with a grin, "You've got a blader's honor don't you?"
"Bah! FINE! Sure whatever! IF you win that is!", The later shouted. "Perfect! Then let's begin shall we?", Valt grinned.
"Tsk. You'll regret this Vaul? Vowel? Whatever your name is!", The boy complained but Valt only smiled. Shu watched silently from the sidelines.
Something affectionate was brewing inside him as he observed his best friend getting ready into his launching stance.
Valt's got this. There was no way he was going to lose to some rookie blader.
Yet Shu still felt nervous. Perhaps it was because the bracelet was on the line?
But Valt didn't look nervous. Maybe the bracelet didn't mean a lot to him...
"3, 2, 1... LET IT RIP!", Both bladers counted. (I'm skipping the battle as I'm not so good at it :')
**
It wasn't even close. Valt swept the floor with a win of 3-0.
It started out with Valt testing out the waters and not letting out all of his secret moves to get a feel on the boy's skills.
The shorter boy wasn't bad but he was inexperienced, he didn't go through the rough training Valt had, thus hasn't experienced a 'real' battle yet.
He did show some promise however, too bad his ideals were not morally correct.
Valt deeply believed that only the bladers with good intentions will prevail.
At least, he wished that was the case. After quickly knocking out his bey, Valt switched to his jump launch to give Valtryek more force and bursted his opponent before he had time to react.
"Burst Finish! Valt wins with a score of 3-0!", The tanned boy exclaimed, his eyes barely hiding his joy.
"Wooohoo! You did it! That was so awesome!", He exclaimed.
"Hehe, it was no biggie. Guess this means, you get your pendant back", Valt called back Valtryek to his hand and glanced at the other boy who was kneeling on the floor with his hands held out before him.
He looked solem and was strangely quiet. It bothered Valt a bit.
"H-how did you beat me?", He suddenly said or more like shouted.
"That's an answer you're going to find for yourself kiddo. Also, hand over the pendant, we had a deal", Valt went straight to the point.
The boy grumbled but complied. "I'll give you a hint since I'm feeling a bit generous", Valt crossed his arms after catching the pendant.
"With the way you blade now, you'll never get far. You've got talent but if you use the wrong means and motive, you'll be stuck and hit a wall", he said.
"T-that makes less sense somehow..", the shorter boy's brows twitched.
"Well it wouldn't be helpful if just told you the answer now would it? Honestly, the best way to learn is to find out for yourself. Everyone's experiences are different after all", Valt shrugged.
"Grr... ugh whatever", he grumbled. He was about to leave before Shu stopped him.
He looked up with a raised eyebrow but Shu's firm expression remained unshaken.
"Aren't you forgetting something?", Shu asked. "Um...uh...oh yeah...the dumb apology", he rolled his eyes.
"It's not going to count if you're speaking in that tone!", Valt scolded. He flinched like he was being told off by his mom.
Shu couldn't help but suppress a laugh. It took awhile, but eventually the boy apologized properly and 'Reflected on his actions'.
Valt made sure he did. It was kind of jarring seeing how 'Mom mode' Valt went on him.
The taller was gazing at Valt with complete infatuation. Shu sighed, 'Can't blame you kid, I feel the same way'.
"Thank you Valt! From now on I won't miss a single match of yours", the taller boy said with eyes sparkling.
"Oh com'on it's not so like that", Valt blushed and smiled. "Can I hold Valtryek for a moment?", He asked.
"Sure!", Valt gave it as his eyes spark in a light of determination.
"Thank you Valtryek and Valt Aoi! I can't believe I'm talking with the legend of the legends and the great Prodigy of Beyblade world together, I'm blessed", he started crying in happiness just like Hannah did.
The two elder Bladers sweat dropped. "Oof- looks like I'm recalling back Hannah again", Shu sweat dropped.
"Wait! WHAT DID YOU SAY?", The other boy looked at the two from head to toe then he pulled out a newspaper or magazine from his pant's pocket.
He looked at it then gasped, "OH MY GOSH! IT'S YOU TWO!" He looked like he's lost in the woods.
"Valt Aoi and Shu Kurenai! AHHH! I CAN'T BELIEVE I WAS BATTLING WITH ONE OF YOU AHHH!", And he circled on the ground like crazy.
"Umm", the other three just sweat dropped at this.
After saying goodbye to the two, Valt and Shu left the park. The sun was already starting to set down signalling the approach of the evening.
They spent more time in the park than expected. Valt was humming a cheery tune while Shu was contemplating.
"That bracelet! I didn't know you still had it", Shu said suddenly.
"Oh that old thing. Hehe yeah... I kept it since it kept me closer to you in a way", Valt replied and he took out the bracelet.
"You know, when you left for America, it was really hard to avoid calling you every hour of the day. I didn't want to annoy you since you clearly were very busy, but it was hard being away from you-I mean, you're my best friend-for so long. So the bracelet felt like I had a piece of you with me everyday... Man I sound cheesy don't I?", Valt grinned.
Shu was stunned as he felt a heat pool to his cheeks and coughed, "S-same here".
Valt looked at him in confusion. Shu sighed and unrolled his sleeve to show an identical bracelet in red around his wrist.
"I also kept mine", Shu said shyly. "Oh!", Valt gasped.
He brought his wrist close to Shu's and their bracelets completed each other perfectly.
"Well guess what they said about friendship bracelets is true!", Valt laughed brightly.
"And what do they say about them?", Shu inquired.
Valt raised his hand up in a fist and flashed the colorful beads with a grin, "They bring the best of friends closer together. Honoring the time, energy and friendship between us, it brought us together!"
Shu chuckled and playfully rolled his eyes, "Sure thing Valt".
"Hey! I'm serious! Those sayings aren't just a bunch of fluffy nonsense ya know! They're real!!!", Valt pouted.
Shu chuckled once more as he ruffled his best friend's hair, 'Oh, how was I able to survive without him?'
~*Sometimes later*~
The two decided to spend time together as Valt invited Shu in his home.
Mrs Chiharu was so happy to see the two together, "Ahh my precious jewels back to home".
She and the twins welcomed the two. The two stayed there for the whole day at Valt's house then Valt's eyes drifted to the calendar with an internal scream.
'Today is 3rd Aug, that means tomorrow... OMG! I was supposed to go to America instead of Japan! Hey isn't Shu supposed to be there? What he's doing here? Oh my gosh! I messed up everything-', Valt panicked.
"What happened Valt?", Shu asked. "Um no nothing", Valt lied wondering about if Shu doesn't remember it'll be so harsh to disturb him that way.
"Hey Valt?", Shu asked. "Yes?", Valt sadly looked up.
"I'm returning back to America in tomorrow's flight", Shu commented and the last hope Valt had lost...
"Ok don't worry I'll surely accompany you to the airport. Don't worry I won't oversleep", he forced a grin which Shu noticed silently.
"But it's not the reason I came here Valt, I want you to come USA with me tomorrow", Shu's word quitted Valt.
"Well really?", Valt blinked then Shu nodded with a smile.
"Sure whyn't!", He agreed as Shu grinned, "Great!"
~*The Next Day*~
August is when summer peaks in New York. It's a pleasant time to be outdoors and outdoor events continue to rule the calendar.
... Board way to New York, USA...
Shu sat quietly on the plane and looked at the sleeping figure next to him with a smile. Valt was peacefully snoring and curled up at his side.
Shu tried to suppress the heat he felt pooling in his chest but with Valt looking so... Cute. It was very hard to not fawn over the Valtryek blader.
Shu glanced out at the window with a sigh as he thought about the trip that lay ahead.
He was going to be returning to America, the place he ran away from to become Red Eye.
~*Shu's internal Flashback*~
Shu thought back on his first days at the Raging Bulls. During his quick climb into becoming one of the strongest bladers in the team, he felt thrilled and exhilarated.
He had a clear goal: To become the best in his team; and that he did.
Even the mentors showed bias and favour towards him during training practices.
He was seen as the role model for his peers. He was allowed to do what he wanted, when he wanted and it felt good. That happiness was short-lived, however.
After defeating all of his teammates, he didn't feel that spark of adrenaline anymore.
Blading became more dull in comparison to when he first started.
He had overcome all the hurdles in front of him and stood at the top of the Raging Bulls. But it wasn't enough for Shu Kurenai and it felt suffocating.
What made his experience here extremely different wasn't the change of setting, it was the change of friends.
Shu didn't have any friends in America and didn't plan to make any.
Being the introvert that he was, he managed to have friends in Beigoma Academy thanks to Valt.
It was a wonder how Shu managed to become friends with the outgoing, optimistic bluenette, but he supposes that being childhood friends for years would cause the two to become closer, regardless of Shu's social ability.
Also, there was just something different about Valt that attracted others to him.
Like a moth to a lamp, Valt's brightness was alluring and Shu had always loved the warmth he would feel deep down in his chest when he was with his best friend.
Speaking of this warmth. It was one of the reasons that caused Shu Kurenai to shut himself out from others from his team: The Raging Bulls.
He could tell that there were a few bladers that wanted to speak to him and get to know him better but just one glance at the stoic albino, turned them away from any hope of forming a friendship.
Shu wasn't interested in making friends here. He didn't need them. At least that's what he told himself.
In reality, Shu would have liked to get to know his teammates better, to form stronger connections with them, but something was preventing him from doing so.
Something that has been bothering him ever since he lost to Lui during Japan's national beyblading tournament: His broken promise.
The promise that he swore to Valt when the Valtryek blader entered his first national tournament meant a lot more to Shu than he realised.
Seeing how far Valt has come with his blading career and how much the bluenette had improved in such a short period of time sparked something in Shu.
Not only was Valt his best friend, but he was also a rival who Shu valued with the utmost respect.
So when Shu lost to Lui and his position in the finals, it blew a devastating blow in the Spryzen blader's confidence, blading spirit and filled the holes in his heart with endless feelings of shame and guilt.
How could he even look at Valt after his pathetic loss? The words that Lui said to him were always etched deep in his mind and heart and they seemed to echo even louder now.
Even when Valt reassured him that he wasn't angry or disappointed with Shu, the albino still felt guilty and frustrated with himself.
He recalled that one evening. Staring at the sunset while Valt splashed around in the water acting like his usual cheerful self, saying, "I'm so sorry Valt for breaking our promise".
In short, Shu went to America for this exact reason: To get stronger while Valt got called off to B.C Sol.
To avoid breaking any more promises he made with the Valtryek blader, Shu trained his hardest and focused on his goal with all his energy.
Hence, forming bonds, friends or social connections never crossed his mind. When Shu thought back on it, he realised how lonely he felt.
He was on the other side of the world, away from his friends, away from Valt, which made him feel more isolated than he realised.
It felt suffocating. Shu felt his stomach turn into a knot when he would find himself checking up on B.C Sol's tournaments that were broadcasted on TV.
He was happy when he saw Valt in the lineup. Perhaps Valt was still training and would be in the lineup eventually?
He heard that B.C Sol was a top notch team and very competitive so it would be too surprising if Valt could make it in the team's lineup just a week after joining.
Shu had hope that he would be able to see Valt on the TV screen often. But he didn't. Shu was starting to worry for his friend.
He had thought about sending Valt a text message but whenever he glanced at his phone, he didn't know what to type.
If Valt wasn't in BC Sol's lineup, then he didn't need his worry. This was Valt he was talking about! He always got back up no matter the challenge!
He was fine... These were just excuses to cover up Shu's anxiety of talking to Valt again but it was enough for the albino.
Shu never ended up texting him. Too unsure of what to say.
Even if he did, he wouldn't have gotten a response since Valt is too reckless sometimes.
All he knew was that he needed a distraction Something to distract himself from the conflicting feelings he felt for Valt.
He realised that when he messed up a launch during one of his training sessions when his mind was occupied by the blue haired blader.
"Did I see that correctly? Or did Shu Kurenai just miss his launch?", He heard a voice gasp out loud.
"Shh! He can hear us", Another hissed. Shu glared at the two bladers that were peeking a few meters away at his training but paid them no mind.
He recalled when he walked past them to head to the rest rooms. Splashing water on his face, he stared at his reflection.
He swore he saw the Valtryek's blader's face for a split second before blinking it away quickly.
He missed Valt. And it hurt. And it was annoying.
Perhaps it was a sliver of good luck in fate that guided these two separated best friends back together.
Who knows what might have happened if Valt never met Shu at the Snake Pit which would leave Shu's cold exterior to freeze him whole and extinguish the burning flame of love he had for his friends and blading.
Nevertheless, Shu felt whole again, being at the Valtryek blader's side, even when it was in not the circumstances he imagined.
**
Shu snapped out of his thoughts as the airplane hit a bit of turbulence.
He glanced over at the still sleeping male and smiled when he saw his sleeping face.
'Looks like Valt is still a deep sleeper as always...', He thought as he brushed the bangs from Valt's eyes, 'He looks so different with his hair down... I like him this way'.
Shu and Valt took off first. They would be having a few days off before their official team matches began and Shu had made up his mind to take Valt sight-seeing around New York city.
Maybe showing the blue head the delicacies and the fun places around New York could cheer him up.
Valt loved food after all. Shu smiled as he recalled their time together during last year's fireworks festival in Japan.
~*Flashback*~
There were fireworks, of course, and a lot of food stalls. Shu's mind wandered as he thought about the cheerful laughter of his friends while they ran through the road with dozens of food stalls beckoning them to come and try their delicacies.
The group took a bunch of pictures together in a photo booth- Shu still had no idea how they managed to all fit in the small stall but somehow it worked and ate so much street food to their heart's content.
Eventually the group separated to enjoy the festival on their own and Shu, who was accompanied by his best friend of course, got dragged along to the riverside to see the fireworks.
"H-hey! Where are you taking me?", Shu asked.
"I know a nice spot where we can see the fireworks clearly in the sky!", Valt replied.
"Shouldn't we be looking for the rest of our friends?", He blinked as the bluenette replied, "We've been with them all throughout the festival! Plus, if we look for them now, we'd miss the fireworks. Come on, I want to have some alone time with you".
Shu felt his heart flutter strangely in his chest. This wasn't the first time he and Valt were alone.
They've spent many festivities together long before they met their other friends.
So why did this feel different? Well, Shu knew the answer to that now.
Looking back on it, he might have fallen for his best friend way earlier than he realised.
As Shu and Valt found a nice spot on the soft cool grass, the firework show began.
Although the show of colourful bright lights was pretty, it became a blur of colour in Shu's memory.
~*Flashback Ends*~
He remembered however, how Valt's eyes shone with happiness and how the rainbow colours shone against his skin as the bluenette gazed at the sky.
When Shu caught himself staring, he quickly averted his gaze back to the sky.
Unknowingly, while Shu gazed at the fireworks, Valt had already snuck multiple sneaky glances at the albino, staring at his gorgeous complexion as if he was caught in a daze.
**
"Flight attendants. Prepare for landing please", Shu snapped out of his daydream once more.
After the long 11 hours flight as the plane had landed and they were in America.
He shook gently the bluenette next to him and Shu chuckled when Valt woke up with a wide yawn.
As both of them checked out of the plane and were about to head out the airport, Shu reached for Valt's hand and held it firmly, "Hey Valt?"
"Yeah?", Valt asked groggily, still feeling sleepy.
"How about I show you around New York? Let's have some fun first", Shu smiled as the doors opened before them.
He turned around and guided Valt out the doors. Valt blinked as the beautiful sunset shone around the albino before him; he looked ethereal.
The smile on the albino was mirrored onto his own face as he exclaimed, "Sure thing Shu! I'm dying for some fun. Let's go!"
They made their first stop to the National Monument in New York City. The Statue of Liberty.
"Whoooaa. That's cool!", Valt exclaimed with sparkles in his eyes when he and Shu got off the public bus and faced the green statue of New Yorks' lady.
The ocean water that surrounded the statue on its own island was a calming sight in addition to the cool breeze that blew across its surface.
The two bladers stood near the railings and took in the beautiful sight of the ocean.
The statue was on its own island, surrounded by the glistening water.
"Wanna go on a ferry, Valt?", Shu asked while pointing at the boat in the ocean.
A large ferry circled around the statue with a bunch of tour guides snapping pictures of the statue.
"Can we? I'd love to!", Valt responded excitedly. Shu nodded and headed to the ticketmaster to purchase tickets for the next available spots on the ferry.
Luckily they didn't have to wait long. After a few minutes, a ferry came back to the dock.
As the duo boarded the large ferry, they spotted a couple sitting near them, holding hands and kissing each other.
The albino coughed awkwardly while he and Valt quickly looked in opposite directions, avoiding each other's glance.
They were staring at how the sunlight reflected off the surface of the crystal clear water. The ferry's engine revved as it moved away from the dock.
It started moving slowly into the shimming water. It was calming and peaceful.
"Do you think there will be dolphins?", Valt asked in wonder.
Shu could see the sparkling water reflected off from the smaller blader's hazel brown orbs.
Recalling that one time when Valt ran into the ocean near the beach and swam like a dolphin, Shu let out a small laugh, "What's it with you and dolphins?"
"I dunno! They're really fun. I guess that's why I like them!", Valt grinned. "Fun you say...", Shu gazed back at the water.
The ferry was approaching the island so the two friends made good use of their time to take pictures of their surroundings.
When they finally approached the statue of Liberty Island, the ferry stopped near the dock and the two bladers were escorted to the exit.
The tour guide led the ferry's group around the island and mentioned how they were allowed to climb all the way to the top of the Liberty's crown.
"There are over 350 stairs in order to reach the top of this magnificent statue. It does take a while so if anyone is up to challenge themselves today, feel free to climb up the statue!", The tour guide chirped with a laugh.
Shu and Valt exchanged a look. Oh they were definitely going to do that. One glance between them, and they knew what the other was thinking-
'Want to race to the top Shu?' 'You're on'.
Hence, they climbed onto the statue of liberty's crown. Or ran, in this case.
Both of them were neck to neck with Valt barely beating Shu by half a step once they reached the top.
Panting, Valt raised his fist victoriously in the air, "I...hah, w-won, hahh...Yes!"
"Hah... That was..hahh...close!", Shu replied as he wiped the sweat off his face.
They spent the next half hour admiring the whole city view of New York City from the statue's crown.
Shu made sure to take a lot of selfies with Valt, many of them being just pictures of the Valtryek blader, and smiled to himself as he scrolled through his camera roll.
"Hey Shu I want to see!", Valt pleaded as he tried to get a look at the phone in Shu's hand.
"Hmm oh I don't know, these pictures are quite interesting. I think I'll keep them to myself", Shu teased and giggled when Valt tried to snatch the phone away from him.
Thankful for his height advantage, Shu managed to prevent that from happening.
"Fine! Keep those pictures to yourself. I don't wanna see them anyways!", Valt pouted. Shu laughed again as he ruffled his hair once more.
Discreetly, he selected a rather cute picture of the bluennet-they were all cute honestly-and set it as the wallpaper of his lock screen.
The two of them eventually grew tired of the view and wanted to explore elsewhere.
They boarded and left the ferry as they entered New York's cityscape.
First place they headed towards was Times Square. Specifically Manhattan Mall.
The rest of the morning and afternoon flew by quickly. Time really does pass by while you're having fun.
The two friends fooled around a bit with Valt trying on some wacky outfits from time to time with Shu trying his best to hold back his laughter.
They might have gotten a few glares from the store workers but they paid them no mind.
Shu ended up buying a bag full of new clothes despite him arguing that he really didn't need any more.
But to Valt's insistence, he had to get them since he 'Looks absolutely stunning and it was a crime if he didn't wear them'
And Shu, being one who couldn't refuse those puppy eyes, gave in.
"Well my wardrobe is going to be good for the next 5 years", Shu muttered as he glanced at the long receipt.
Valt even offered to pay for Shu's clothes if Shu kept on refusing to buy anything.
Of course, Shu would never let his best friend pay for his clothes. It's not like Shu lacked the money anyways.
It was well past lunchtime, so after saying their goodbyes to the kind lady and paying for their clothes, they decided to take a break from shopping and hit the restaurants.
They went to New York City's best restaurant and gobbled down on clam chowder, New York style pizza and cheesecake for dessert.
(Hope y'all enjoying the entire cheesey cheesecake in this chapter lol)
It was phenomenal. They decided to head to Shu's apartment to drop off all the bags that they were carrying.
The corridors were empty, not surprising since it was lunch time.
After exiting his room, Shu pulled up a map on his phone, with markings of nearby stores.
"Uhh Shu? Where are we heading?", Valt asked while he licked a chocolate popsicle that they got at a nearby ice-cream shop.
"We're getting you a new adventure", Shu said throwing a finished strawberry popsicle in a nearby trash bin while checking his phone once more.
"W-wait! W-what?", Valt stammered as Shu grabbed him by the hand and led him through the busy crowd with a smile.
This was just the beginning of their trip in New York, and Shu still had many other activities planned for them to do.
Seeing how happy Valt looked throughout the day gave Shu even more motivation to try and keep this cheerfulness inside of the Valtryek blader forever.
Traveling around the city reminded Shu of the good old days when they would just hang out without any pressure and just enjoy being two young teens having fun.
As long as he was able to distract Valt from whatever the bluenette was going through, it would be worth it.
**
"WHOA Shu you didn't tell me that you've THIS", Valt's chocolate brown eyes sparkled as he looked back at Shu. Shu brought him in the apartment garage belongs to him.
Valt gasped after seeing what Shu wanted to show. It was a brand new polished black cabriolet means an open roof car.
"So how would my Valty like to go on a long drive with this fabulous Shu Kurenai?", Shu smirked making Valt roll his eyes.
"Here Mr Show-off started once again", he commented as Shu chuckled at this.
"So Shu... I was wondering about...", Valt looked at him then brought out something from his bag and gave it to Shu.
"I don't know what to say actually and I guess I already messed up everything so THIS IS FOR YOU!", Valt screamed as he blushed madly.
"Whoa calm down Valt", Shu smiled as he opened the wrapped box to see a card then some chocolates and fresh red roses in a beautiful decoration.
"Wow it's-", Shu opened the card to see 'Happy 7th & 4th Anniversary Shu' then 'Happy 4th August' in Valt's hand writing.
Then a letter written by Valt–
Dear Shu ♡,
It's been a long time but guess what I was planning to visit America then you suddenly came to Japan.
I didn't know what to say as I was sad about you're going back there but I guess fate gifted me a chance to be with you for our special day.
I'm grateful for everything you've done for me and I'm glad we're bonded together by this special connection. Thank you.
Happy 4th August, our 7th Anniversary of blading career and our wonderful friendship bond and Happy 4th Anniversary for our special moments.
It's been 4 years we confessed that we both fell in love with each other from the very start and I feel like it's yesterday. Great I'm becoming too cheesy again... Ahem!
So I made some handmade chocolates for you and don't worry I didn't burn down the kitchen XD. So hope you'll like.
–Your Valt ★
(According to the official BBB Manga, Valt got Valtryek as his Christmas gift from his father which was more earlier than his birthday.
In 2016, we were watching both Valt and Shu as 11 years old. So suppose Shu got his Bey Spryzen also before he turned 11, so if we count till this year 2022, it's their 7th year anniversary as Bey Bladers right?
So what do you say? How's my theory? Probably weird XD)
And the letter ended. Shu couldn't help but smile, "Valt! It's wonderful! When did you get time for these?"
Shu checked those chocolates as Valt in the other hand looked relieved seeing Shu's smile.
"Uh actually I made those yesterday midnight when you guys were sleeping and I managed to brought those roses today and packed it behind your eyes", He scratched his head.
"God! That's why you were looking so drained in the flight", Shu's eyes widened about the fact.
"Hehe well I hope you liked the gift", Valt flashed his signature smile.
"Uh no you're wrong!", Shu's comment made Valt blink in confusion as if he did any mistake.
"I absolutely LOVE IT VALTY!", Shu suddenly screamed that caught Valt off guard and he gasped when Shu gave the 'best gift' at least for Valt, a sweet passionate kiss on the lips.
Valt closed his eyes totally melted by it. After they pulled apart Shu couldn't wait and literally put a piece of chocolate in his mouth while his face lit up in delight.
"Whoa looks like someone can't wait to taste my cooking", Valt teased.
"No I'm just checking that it has all the ingredients correctly", Shu deadpanned with his eyes closed.
"Hey! How dare you?", And Valt fumed. "Sorry hehe actually I'm so happy that you remember it Valt! I thought that you've forgotten so that's why I brought you here today in USA if we could spend some time just the two of us together. And I guess my blueberry proved me a little wrong", Shu smiled his signature smile that makes Valt's heart flutter.
"No Shu. I really enjoyed today's tour except I didn't realise it's for 4th Aug special. Guess I'm too stupid", Valt smiled sheepishly.
"No you're not. Hey we don't have a whole day to spend! Let's go already", Shu carefully put the box in the car as he hurried Valt to get into the car.
"Oh com'on darling we've a whole night to enjoy, don't forget it", Valt calmed Shu down. "What you just called me?", Shu quirked an eyebrow.
"Um... Why oh darling oh sorry if-", but Valt was cut off by Shu, "No I like it Darling~". "Hey! You!", Valt pouted.
"Oh com'on what's the crime in calling your lover darling. Ok enough we literally spend the whole evening standing here", Shu commented after he took the car out of the garage. "Fine Darling lol", Valt cracked a smile.
Driving at night is very nice because you can experience the darkness and emptiness of the open streets in the comfort of your car.
After a fun and busy night out, one of the favorite ways of cooling down is driving home late at night.
You'll find the empty streets and lack of cars very soothing.
The streets are almost completely empty after midnight and you might see another car passing by.
In more populated areas, there are lots of city light which is also very nice to look at when you're driving in your car. Gives off a very Cyberpunk or LoFi vibe.
On Summer weekends, it feels great but in winter long drives give chills for the cold weather and it's hard to watch through the fog so winter isn't good for it so enjoy the one day of summer as much you can through long driving cause Summer is great!
After that the two enjoyed the whole night together in the long drive. At once in a while, they stopped at a restaurant for dinner and Valt couldn't stop commenting about how much food he could get still Shu's Spaghetti is the best.
Shu was glad about his blue hedgehog lover loves his cooking so much. They enjoyed their foods.
It's calm, tranquil and laidback. There's no hustle bustle, no traffic, no honking - no race. You can just be the way you want to be.
A late night drive is the best time to spend with yourself or someone with you.
It allows you so much space to think about all that is going on in your life and still not worry too much.
Introspect. The car and the night and the person you're with are the only friends you need.
"Whoa Shu IT'S JUST SO AMAZING!", Valt cheered loudly as Shu drives the car.
"Absolutely! Sometimes I took off by my own to release stress from working", he smiled.
"Wow I didn't know you can drive so smoothly", Valt commented as Shu flashed a smile.
If Valt say the truth it's the best ever day in his entire life more than being the champion but still blading is a special place for both of them.
"Oh Shu how much I say but I just can't believe it's reality. It's the best day!", He smiled.
"My pleasure you like it. If Fubuki and Trad hadn't kicked me out yesterday maybe we couldn't end up like this and I'm glad we did", Shu picked up Spryzen and held it with his free hand.
"Hold it for a min", he gave it to Valt as he also brought out his beloved Valtryek.
In response Spryzen and Valtryek glowed a glimpse of little red and blue together.
"Aww looks like those two are enjoying with us also", Valt said as he held them with his both hands.
"They're our precious jewels", Shu commented.
"Absolutely", Valt looked back at them, "Ok Valtry and Spry you can spend time together buddies!"
"Whoa sounds cute Spry? Pfft-", Shu laughed at Valt's bey talk. "Hey! Those looks adorable", Valt pouted cutely.
"Aww but my most adorable is my dear blueberry~", Shu smirked.
"Oof- for god's sake Shu stop teasing me all the time", Valt sighed, "But I actually like it badly". Shu just hummed.
After their long time enjoying they returned back at 1:30.
"Oh god! IT WAS SOOOO GOOOOD!", Valt cheered as Shu shused him, "Shh Valt it's passed midnight, don't wake up the neighbour".
"Oof-sorry but I was too excited", Valt replied as the two came to Shu's apartment room.
After they freshed and changed they laid on the bed recalling back today's wonderful Memories as it was the best day ever!
"Thanks for today!", Valt scooted closer to Shu.
"Same here", Shu hugged him as they both drifted off to sleep to be lost in the dreamland of their own.
We found each other, we are meant to be Together FOREVER!...
✯✧★ｏ☆♡☆ｏ★✧✯♡✯✧★ｏ☆
So hope y'all enjoyed the whole cheesey cheesecake in this entire chapter ❤️💙
LoL it's the hella loooong chapter I've ever written. Anything for this precious day! Happy Shalt Day!✨
Word Count: 8840
Stay blessed 🌻💮