Ashalita Phoenix
Active member
I feel like I can write forever...
Chapter Fifteen: Shikamaru’s Decision
“Our last performance is from Konoha High School, I give you the Joint.” The announcer said. Shikamaru walked up on stage and pulled out a paper put of the hat. “So what is your word?”
“Hurt…” He replied. Hurt??? What song that has that word? What good song? He walked to his team. “We got ‘Hurt’.”
“There are a lot of songs with that word. What song should we do?” Temari asked.
“I don’t know.” Shikamaru said. “We have to think of something quick.”
“I have a song.” Gaara said. Everyone turned their attention to him. “Shino…Chouji… I need you two to do something for me.”
“Right…” They said. They listened to Gaara’s plan and when they got their jobs, they walked on stage.
“Another red head…” Rukia said. “Wow…”
“Is there something wrong with red head?” Pein asked.
“No, I have nothing against them. My best friend has red hair.” Rukia replied.
“Well, my brother in law has red hair and my father in law.” Zetta added. Gaara sat on a wooden chair and the spotlight was focus on him.
For Ashley… Gaara thought, taking a deep breath. Hinata started playing the violin also with Kiba’s acoustic guitar. Then Neji added his piano and Sasuke’s base with a little of Naruto’s drums. “I can take the rain on the roof of this empty house. That don’t bother me. I can take a few tears now and then and just let them out. I’m not afraid to cry every once in a while. Even though going on with you gone still upsets me. There are days every now and again I pretend I’m ok but that’s not what gets me.” He leaned forward, placing his hands on his head. He was staring at the ground. “What hurts the most…was being so close. And having so much to say…And watching you walk away...And never knowing what could have been. And not seeing that loving you is what I was trying to do.” He looked at up and a holographic image of Ashley appeared in front of him. She was wearing a white dress and was with some boys. “It’s hard to deal with the pain of losing you everywhere I go but I’m doing it. It’s hard to force that smile when I see our old friends and I’m alone… Still Harder…Getting up, getting dressed, living with this regret but I know if I could do it over. I would trade give away all the words that I saved in my heart that I left unspoken.” He stood up from his chair and raced towards her but she disappeared.
“Wow, he is good.” Maka commented.
“And those special affects looks so real. I can’t tell if it’s a holographic image.” Tsubaki said. “It looks like a real girl.”
“I love his voice.” Liz said. “It’s so dreamy.”
“Yeah, he sounds awesome.” Patty said.
“I think we found ourselves a match.” Corona said, turning to Ashalita. She was staring at him. “Ash, is there something wrong?”
“He is singing for someone…” Ashalita said, smiling. “Can you hear it?”
“What hurts the most…was being so close. And having so much to say…And watching you walk away...” He sang. She appeared again, face her back to him. He hugged her tight but she again faded away. “And never knowing what could have been. And not seeing that loving you is what I was trying to do.” He fell on his knees. Then he found her offering her hand to him and smiling. He grabbed it and started dancing with her. Kiba switched to electric guitar and started during a solo. He waltz with her graceful, not letting her go. “Oh….Hey….. What hurts the most…was being so close.” He leaned her down and lifted her up, pulling her closer. “And having so much to say…And watching you walk away...” She was trying to escape but he pulled her back into his embrace. “And never knowing what could have been. And not seeing that loving you is what I was trying to do.” She sat him down on the chair, leaning for a kiss. “And not seeing that loving you is what I was trying to do….Oh…” When their lips was about to met, she was slowly fading away in front of him and it was over. Everyone cheered and most of the people we crying.
“He was amazing.” Temari said, smiling.
“Now, it’s time for the judges to decide who will be the winner.” The announcer said.
“Alexia, is she really going to be okay?” Aleria asked.
“I am not giving up on her.” Alexia said. “Besides, she is a strong girl.” She let out a smile. “If she can survive a car crash, she can survive this.”
“I will pay for everything.” Aleria said.
“I know you will.” Alexia replied. Then all of the sudden, they heard a loud beeping sound. “Oh no, she is fading.” She checked her pulse. “NURSE, GET HER INTO THE EMERGENCY ROOM.” The raced her to the room. “Ashley, stay with me. You are not leaving us.”
“I will call on to Mrs. Moon to call out the results.” The announcer said. Kitaru walked up on stage and grabbed an envelope from him.
“Thank you… It is a great honor.” She said, smiling. “Everyone performed their best but let’s see who sang passionately.” She opened the envelope. “The winner of the 2011 Band Slam is…” Everyone crossed their fingers, hoping to hear their name. “From Shibusen, the Angels…” Everyone cheered as they walked on to the stage. “Congratulations…”
“Thank you…” Ashalita said.
“We didn’t win…” Sakura said. The gang fell into sadness. “We failed.” They walked away from the scene and to their room.
“I can’t believe we didn’t win.” Naruto said.
“Yeah, we stole the crowd.” Ino added. “We even made them cry.”
“Well, we have to find another way to get the money.” Shikamaru said.
“What options do we have?” Tenten asked.
“I don’t know.” Temari said. “We just need to think of something.” Then there was a knock on the door. “Come in…” It opened and it was Ashalita. “It’s you… You are here to rub it in.”
“No, I just wanted to say that you were great out there even your singer.” Ashalita said, smiling. “Anyway, my name is Ashalita Phoenix.” She offered her hand to Gaara.
“Gaara…” He replied, shaking it firmly.
“You are very talented. I was impressed. And to be honest, I wanted you guys to win.” Ashalita said.
“Why?” He asked.
“Well, three years ago I got into trouble along with my friends. We destroyed some expensive lab equipment and the only way to pay it all back is to enter the Band Slam. When I sing, I don’t feel passion. I feel the need to get it over with. That is my purpose, to get it over with. Music is supposed to have a meaning, a meaning of hope. I don’t have that but you do.” She placed her palm on his chest. “You sung your heart out. You sung for love, for her. That is the best reason to be on stage.”
“Thank you…” Gaara said.
“Don’t mention it.” Ashley said, smiling. “You made me realize that music is better with love. I guess I have to work on that.”
“MIDGET, WHERE ARE YOU?” A voice screamed.
“Well, I must be going. My crazy boyfriend will flip when he sees me with another boy.” She said, letting out a giggle. “He can be very overprotective.” She walked to the door. “Gaara, I hope you keep singing with your heart.” She opened it and found Halo in front of her. “Hey Halo…”
“What are you doing here?” Halo asked.
“I can’t go on my own.” Ashalita replied. “I am not an idiot like you.”
“Idiot… Well this idiot happens to be your boyfriend.” Halo snapped. Then she slammed the door in front of him. It slammed his face. “YOU ARE GOING TO GET IT MIDGET!!!”
“Why do you even go out with a guy like that?” Neji asked.
“Because he completes me…” She replied, giggling. “Well, I will see you guys.”
“Are you worried about the madman outside?” Rock Lee asked.
“Don’t worry about me…” Ashalita said, opening the door again. She found her boyfriend with an angry look on his face. He looks pissed.
“You are going to get it…” Halo snapped.
“You wouldn’t hurt me right Halo?” Ashalita asked, giving him a cute and innocent look. She was practically in tears, fake tears. “I am so sorry. Please forgive me.”
“I am not falling for that Midget.” Halo snapped, looking away. I hate it when she does this… Pretends to be all nice and innocent… Don’t look at her… Don’t give in… He didn’t listen; he turned and stared into her beautiful eyes. “Damn it, I can’t stay mad at you. Come on, I promised you that we will get some ice cream after the competition.” She hugged his arm and smiled. You sneaky midget…
“Bye…” She said.
“Bye…” Temari said. “Wow, she is good.”
“Troublesome…” Shikamaru said. Then all of the sudden, a phone started to ring. It was Sasuke’s phone. He pulled out of his jean pocket.
“Hello… Alexia… Calm down I can’t understand you.” Sasuke said. “WHAT…” He had a worried look on his face. “Ashley is in the emergency room. We will be there right away.” He hung up. “We have to get to the hospital. Ashley’s lung is failing.”
“Let’s go…” Gaara said, racing out the door. Hang in there Ashley… Please…
They made it to the hospital, running through the halls. Then they bumped into Alexia. “Alexia how is she?” Sasuke asked, looking worried.
“She is barely breathing but I am doing everything I can to keep her from dying. She is in a private room right now, getting ready for the surgery.” Alexia replied. “So how did the Band Slam go?” Everyone gave her frowns.
“We didn’t win.” Temari replied.
“The Angels won again.” Shino added. “We are so sorry.”
“Don’t be… I know that Ashley will be so proud of all of you for trying your hardest.” Alexia said, smiling. Then a nurse walked towards her.
“Lady Alexia, you are need in the emergency room.” The Nurse said.
“I will be right there.” She replied. “I have to deal with another patient. You guys can visit Ashley before I come back and start on her operation.”
“Thank you Alexia.” Sasuke said, watching them leave. They walked into a room and found Ashley breathing in an air mask. I hate to see her like this.
“She is still breathing… Thank goodness…” Hinata said.
“Alexia did say as long she has the mask on, she will be fine.” Tenten said.
“But I wished we won the Band Slam.” Lily said. “It will really help her.”
“I can help with that.” A voice said. They turned and found a man with long raven black hair and pale white skin. His eyes were gleaming yellow.
“Orochimaru…” Sasuke said. This is the guy who owns The Sound. “What do you want?”
“I am only here to aid your need.” He replied, smiling. “That is all… I am giving an offer of a lifetime. Fame, Fortune, and also to save your dear friend…” They all turned to Ashley. “She is dying and she needs my money to help her.”
“There is a catch to this.” Temari snapped.
“Well, I want the Joint to be The Sound’s number one band.” Orochimaru said, pulling out a contract. “I saw you guys perform at the Band Slam today and a few days ago, I saw your friend and the red head doing a duet at the Toad Stool, you guys are pretty good.”
He was spying on us… Gaara thought.
“So if we join you, you pay for my sister’s medical bill.” Sasuke asked.
“Of course…” Orochimaru said, smiling.
“We will like to discuss it.” Shikamaru said. “As a group if you don’t mind.”
“Of course…” He replied, walking out the door.
“What do you think Shikamaru? We are the managers.” Temari asked. “Should we go through it?”
“I don’t trust him… I smell something evil going on here.” Kiba said. Akamaru barked with agreement.
“Also, Ashley told us to not trust the Sound.” Neji added.
“But we didn’t win the Band Slam and Aleria is not paying for anything.” Sasuke pointed out. “Also, we can’t fundraise the money; it’s too late for that.”
“There got to be a way.” Naruto said. “I don’t trust this guy.”
“Same here…” Sakura added.
“He has an evil aurora when he was here. It makes me nervous.” Lily said.
“I don’t want to go through this.” Hinata added. “Ashley doesn’t want us to trust the Sound.”
“But we are talking about her life here.” Chouji said. “We can’t turn down this offer.”
“We can least ask her sister one more.” Tenten said.
“Shikamaru, what do you think?” Temari asked.
“I think this situation is highly troublesome.” He said, letting out a sigh. Ashley is dying and the only chance we have to save her is right in front of us. However, Ashley forbids us to be near The Sound but it’s her only chance to live. How ironic. Ashley, for once in my life I don’t have an answer to this situation. I don’t know what to do. He let out another sigh. “This is the only way to save Ashley and we all want her to live. So I guess the only thing to do is to sign that contract.”
“Shikamaru…” Temari said.
“There is no other way.” Shikamaru said. “I can’t figure out a way to save her. We lost a lot of time.”
“So, what is your decision?” Orochimaru asked, walking in the room once more.
“We will join you.” Shikamaru replied.
“A wise choice…” Orochimaru said, smiling. I finally have them… Even her… He gave him the contract and a pen. “Sign here…” Shikamaru read through the contract and everyone had a disgusted look on their faces. They are all mine… He then turned his gaze to Ashley. What a beauty and it’s all mine. “Well, are you done?”
“Don’t rush me… What a drag…” Shikamaru said, continuing on reading.
“Are you sure about this?” Gaara whispered.
“It’s the only way and you know it Gaara.” Shikamaru replied. “I don’t like it too.” He slowly placed the eye of the pen on the white sheet of paper. It’s like signing my soul to the devil. All of the sudden, someone gripping his wrist, it was Aleria. “Ms. Aleria.”
“Don’t sign that…” Aleria said, pulling it away and crumbling it.
“Aleria, it has been awhile.” Orochimaru said, smiling. “You look good.”
“Orochimaru, how dare you try to trick these kids to be your slaves?” She snapped.
“Well, it worked for you.” Orochimaru replied.
“Aleria, what are you doing here?” Sasuke asked.
“I came here to protect my sister.” She replied.
“I thought…”
“You didn’t tell him… You didn’t tell them…” Orochimaru said. “My dear Aleria, you shouldn’t keep secrets.”
“What is he talking about?” Sasuke asked. “Aleria, what is going on here?”
“I signed the contract to be famous but while I was working for him, I learned something.” Aleria said. “I learned that Orochimaru was a drug dealer, the biggest boss in the market. He runs everything and I kept it to myself so I will be safe from harm. He knew my relations with my father so he was using me as a shield. My father couldn’t go near him without my life being endangered” She gripped her fist.
“You were very good at it.” Orochimaru said. “However, that stupid Sasori took you away from me. I was vulnerable without you so I found my new target.” He turned to Ashley. “Ashley…”
“I tried to push her away so she won’t get into this mess.” Aleria said. “But I made it worst.”
“Aleria…” Sasuke said. I was wrong about her…
“You are not laying a hand on her.” Gaara said.
“That is what her father told me before he died. What a horrible death…” He teased.
“My father died in a car accident.” Aleria said. Orochimaru started laughing.
“When Aaron and Ashley were heading home, I rammed their car into a tree.” Orochimaru said. “And shot your father. You should see him, crawling away and begging for his pathetic life.”
“YOU MONSTER…” Aleria screamed, racing towards him but he pulled a gun.
“Be smart Aleria…” Orochimaru said.
“How could you kill my father?” She cried.
“He was in the way…” Orochimaru said. “I couldn’t find Ashley so I thought she was dead. I set the car on fire to make it look like a car accident.” It was hard but it was worth it… “Then I heard a few days later that they found Ashley a couple of miles away from the scene. I guess Aaron tossed her out the car before I caught up with him.”
“YOU *******…” Naruto snapped. “I AM GOING TO KILL YOU.”
“Remember who is holding the gun here boy.” Orochimaru said.
“What do you want?” Aleria asked.
“Simple… I want her…” Orochimaru said, pointing to Ashley. “My company is dying and I need her to boost my reputation. Her voice will surely save my life.”
“You are not going to have her.” Sasuke snapped. “I won’t allow it.”
“I will…” He replied.
“Not today…” Itachi said, standing behind him and placing a gun on his head. “Orochimaru…”
“Itachi…” Orochimaru said.
“I finally have you.” He replied. “Drop your weapon… Now…”
“Tell me Itachi, what happens if you take me in?” He asked. “You have no proof to take me and my company down. Even with these people testimony, you need proof.”
“I can’t say that.” Sasori said, leaning at the door frame. “It’s been awhile Orochimaru…”
“Sasori…” Orochimaru said. “What are you doing here?”
“I am here to end you.” Sasori said, pulling out his phone and pressing a button. It was Orochimaru confessing his dirty deeds and it was recorded. “I was already at the door, recording everything. I think this will shut you down.”
“You bastard…” Orochimaru snapped. No, I am not going down now. I am going to have her if it is the last thing I do. He pointed his gun to Ashley and pulled the trigger. Gaara swiftly grabbed Ashley, causing them to hit the ground. The bullet pierced the air tank. “DAMN IT…” Itachi knocked him out with his gun.
“Never harm my family again…” Itachi said, handcuffing him.
“I can’t say he has the right to remain silent because he is silent.” Sasori said.
“Ashley, stay with me…” Gaara said, holding her and checking her pulse. I can’t feel anything… She can’t…
“The tank…” Sasuke said. “She needs some air…”
“Ashley, you better not leave me idiot.” Gaara snapped, holding back tears.
“WHAT IS GOING ON HERE?” Alexia screamed, racing in the room. “Ashley’s air tank… What is going on here?”
“Orochimaru…” Aleria said, crying. “He tried to take her away.”
“NURSE, GIVE ME ANOTHER AIR TANK RIGHT NOW…” Alexia screamed. “HURRY…” The nurse swiftly raced out the room, retrieving another tank. “How is she?” Sasuke paused in shocked, his hands were shaking. “Sasuke…”
“It’s too late…” Sasuke said, checking her pulse. This can’t be happening… “She’s gone.”
“No…She can’t be gone.” Aleria cried, holding on to Sasori. “She can’t…” Sasuke stood up and walked towards the wall. He banged his fist hard on to it, crying.
“Damn it… We failed…” Sasuke cried. I failed as a friend…I failed as a brother…
“No, she can’t be dead.” Gaara said, cupping her face. “Ashley, you better not leave me. Everyone needs you, I need you. Please come back.” He hugged her tightly in his embraced and leaked tears. “Ashley, please come back…” He kissed her forehead. “ASHLEY….”
“Ashley…” Hinata cried.
“Hinata…” Naruto said, holding back tears. He pulled her into his embrace and smoothed her hair. “I…I… I can’t believe it too.” Akamaru let out a long sorrowful howl. All the girls were crying. Blue… Why?
“Itachi…” Alexia cried, hugging him. “I didn’t save her.”
“No, it’s my fault. I wasn’t here on time.” Itachi said. Everyone cried for her, sharing the blame of her death.
“Ashley, don’t go… Not now… You said that you will wait for me. You better keep your word. Damn it, you can’t leave… I know you are strong, you can pull through this.” Gaara cried. “Please come back, I love you so much. Don’t leave me…” Everyone watched him clinched onto the inert body, soaking her with his endless tears. “Please…”
Awww.... I want to cry.
Chapter Fifteen: Shikamaru’s Decision
“Our last performance is from Konoha High School, I give you the Joint.” The announcer said. Shikamaru walked up on stage and pulled out a paper put of the hat. “So what is your word?”
“Hurt…” He replied. Hurt??? What song that has that word? What good song? He walked to his team. “We got ‘Hurt’.”
“There are a lot of songs with that word. What song should we do?” Temari asked.
“I don’t know.” Shikamaru said. “We have to think of something quick.”
“I have a song.” Gaara said. Everyone turned their attention to him. “Shino…Chouji… I need you two to do something for me.”
“Right…” They said. They listened to Gaara’s plan and when they got their jobs, they walked on stage.
“Another red head…” Rukia said. “Wow…”
“Is there something wrong with red head?” Pein asked.
“No, I have nothing against them. My best friend has red hair.” Rukia replied.
“Well, my brother in law has red hair and my father in law.” Zetta added. Gaara sat on a wooden chair and the spotlight was focus on him.
For Ashley… Gaara thought, taking a deep breath. Hinata started playing the violin also with Kiba’s acoustic guitar. Then Neji added his piano and Sasuke’s base with a little of Naruto’s drums. “I can take the rain on the roof of this empty house. That don’t bother me. I can take a few tears now and then and just let them out. I’m not afraid to cry every once in a while. Even though going on with you gone still upsets me. There are days every now and again I pretend I’m ok but that’s not what gets me.” He leaned forward, placing his hands on his head. He was staring at the ground. “What hurts the most…was being so close. And having so much to say…And watching you walk away...And never knowing what could have been. And not seeing that loving you is what I was trying to do.” He looked at up and a holographic image of Ashley appeared in front of him. She was wearing a white dress and was with some boys. “It’s hard to deal with the pain of losing you everywhere I go but I’m doing it. It’s hard to force that smile when I see our old friends and I’m alone… Still Harder…Getting up, getting dressed, living with this regret but I know if I could do it over. I would trade give away all the words that I saved in my heart that I left unspoken.” He stood up from his chair and raced towards her but she disappeared.
“Wow, he is good.” Maka commented.
“And those special affects looks so real. I can’t tell if it’s a holographic image.” Tsubaki said. “It looks like a real girl.”
“I love his voice.” Liz said. “It’s so dreamy.”
“Yeah, he sounds awesome.” Patty said.
“I think we found ourselves a match.” Corona said, turning to Ashalita. She was staring at him. “Ash, is there something wrong?”
“He is singing for someone…” Ashalita said, smiling. “Can you hear it?”
“What hurts the most…was being so close. And having so much to say…And watching you walk away...” He sang. She appeared again, face her back to him. He hugged her tight but she again faded away. “And never knowing what could have been. And not seeing that loving you is what I was trying to do.” He fell on his knees. Then he found her offering her hand to him and smiling. He grabbed it and started dancing with her. Kiba switched to electric guitar and started during a solo. He waltz with her graceful, not letting her go. “Oh….Hey….. What hurts the most…was being so close.” He leaned her down and lifted her up, pulling her closer. “And having so much to say…And watching you walk away...” She was trying to escape but he pulled her back into his embrace. “And never knowing what could have been. And not seeing that loving you is what I was trying to do.” She sat him down on the chair, leaning for a kiss. “And not seeing that loving you is what I was trying to do….Oh…” When their lips was about to met, she was slowly fading away in front of him and it was over. Everyone cheered and most of the people we crying.
“He was amazing.” Temari said, smiling.
“Now, it’s time for the judges to decide who will be the winner.” The announcer said.
“Alexia, is she really going to be okay?” Aleria asked.
“I am not giving up on her.” Alexia said. “Besides, she is a strong girl.” She let out a smile. “If she can survive a car crash, she can survive this.”
“I will pay for everything.” Aleria said.
“I know you will.” Alexia replied. Then all of the sudden, they heard a loud beeping sound. “Oh no, she is fading.” She checked her pulse. “NURSE, GET HER INTO THE EMERGENCY ROOM.” The raced her to the room. “Ashley, stay with me. You are not leaving us.”
“I will call on to Mrs. Moon to call out the results.” The announcer said. Kitaru walked up on stage and grabbed an envelope from him.
“Thank you… It is a great honor.” She said, smiling. “Everyone performed their best but let’s see who sang passionately.” She opened the envelope. “The winner of the 2011 Band Slam is…” Everyone crossed their fingers, hoping to hear their name. “From Shibusen, the Angels…” Everyone cheered as they walked on to the stage. “Congratulations…”
“Thank you…” Ashalita said.
“We didn’t win…” Sakura said. The gang fell into sadness. “We failed.” They walked away from the scene and to their room.
“I can’t believe we didn’t win.” Naruto said.
“Yeah, we stole the crowd.” Ino added. “We even made them cry.”
“Well, we have to find another way to get the money.” Shikamaru said.
“What options do we have?” Tenten asked.
“I don’t know.” Temari said. “We just need to think of something.” Then there was a knock on the door. “Come in…” It opened and it was Ashalita. “It’s you… You are here to rub it in.”
“No, I just wanted to say that you were great out there even your singer.” Ashalita said, smiling. “Anyway, my name is Ashalita Phoenix.” She offered her hand to Gaara.
“Gaara…” He replied, shaking it firmly.
“You are very talented. I was impressed. And to be honest, I wanted you guys to win.” Ashalita said.
“Why?” He asked.
“Well, three years ago I got into trouble along with my friends. We destroyed some expensive lab equipment and the only way to pay it all back is to enter the Band Slam. When I sing, I don’t feel passion. I feel the need to get it over with. That is my purpose, to get it over with. Music is supposed to have a meaning, a meaning of hope. I don’t have that but you do.” She placed her palm on his chest. “You sung your heart out. You sung for love, for her. That is the best reason to be on stage.”
“Thank you…” Gaara said.
“Don’t mention it.” Ashley said, smiling. “You made me realize that music is better with love. I guess I have to work on that.”
“MIDGET, WHERE ARE YOU?” A voice screamed.
“Well, I must be going. My crazy boyfriend will flip when he sees me with another boy.” She said, letting out a giggle. “He can be very overprotective.” She walked to the door. “Gaara, I hope you keep singing with your heart.” She opened it and found Halo in front of her. “Hey Halo…”
“What are you doing here?” Halo asked.
“I can’t go on my own.” Ashalita replied. “I am not an idiot like you.”
“Idiot… Well this idiot happens to be your boyfriend.” Halo snapped. Then she slammed the door in front of him. It slammed his face. “YOU ARE GOING TO GET IT MIDGET!!!”
“Why do you even go out with a guy like that?” Neji asked.
“Because he completes me…” She replied, giggling. “Well, I will see you guys.”
“Are you worried about the madman outside?” Rock Lee asked.
“Don’t worry about me…” Ashalita said, opening the door again. She found her boyfriend with an angry look on his face. He looks pissed.
“You are going to get it…” Halo snapped.
“You wouldn’t hurt me right Halo?” Ashalita asked, giving him a cute and innocent look. She was practically in tears, fake tears. “I am so sorry. Please forgive me.”
“I am not falling for that Midget.” Halo snapped, looking away. I hate it when she does this… Pretends to be all nice and innocent… Don’t look at her… Don’t give in… He didn’t listen; he turned and stared into her beautiful eyes. “Damn it, I can’t stay mad at you. Come on, I promised you that we will get some ice cream after the competition.” She hugged his arm and smiled. You sneaky midget…
“Bye…” She said.
“Bye…” Temari said. “Wow, she is good.”
“Troublesome…” Shikamaru said. Then all of the sudden, a phone started to ring. It was Sasuke’s phone. He pulled out of his jean pocket.
“Hello… Alexia… Calm down I can’t understand you.” Sasuke said. “WHAT…” He had a worried look on his face. “Ashley is in the emergency room. We will be there right away.” He hung up. “We have to get to the hospital. Ashley’s lung is failing.”
“Let’s go…” Gaara said, racing out the door. Hang in there Ashley… Please…
They made it to the hospital, running through the halls. Then they bumped into Alexia. “Alexia how is she?” Sasuke asked, looking worried.
“She is barely breathing but I am doing everything I can to keep her from dying. She is in a private room right now, getting ready for the surgery.” Alexia replied. “So how did the Band Slam go?” Everyone gave her frowns.
“We didn’t win.” Temari replied.
“The Angels won again.” Shino added. “We are so sorry.”
“Don’t be… I know that Ashley will be so proud of all of you for trying your hardest.” Alexia said, smiling. Then a nurse walked towards her.
“Lady Alexia, you are need in the emergency room.” The Nurse said.
“I will be right there.” She replied. “I have to deal with another patient. You guys can visit Ashley before I come back and start on her operation.”
“Thank you Alexia.” Sasuke said, watching them leave. They walked into a room and found Ashley breathing in an air mask. I hate to see her like this.
“She is still breathing… Thank goodness…” Hinata said.
“Alexia did say as long she has the mask on, she will be fine.” Tenten said.
“But I wished we won the Band Slam.” Lily said. “It will really help her.”
“I can help with that.” A voice said. They turned and found a man with long raven black hair and pale white skin. His eyes were gleaming yellow.
“Orochimaru…” Sasuke said. This is the guy who owns The Sound. “What do you want?”
“I am only here to aid your need.” He replied, smiling. “That is all… I am giving an offer of a lifetime. Fame, Fortune, and also to save your dear friend…” They all turned to Ashley. “She is dying and she needs my money to help her.”
“There is a catch to this.” Temari snapped.
“Well, I want the Joint to be The Sound’s number one band.” Orochimaru said, pulling out a contract. “I saw you guys perform at the Band Slam today and a few days ago, I saw your friend and the red head doing a duet at the Toad Stool, you guys are pretty good.”
He was spying on us… Gaara thought.
“So if we join you, you pay for my sister’s medical bill.” Sasuke asked.
“Of course…” Orochimaru said, smiling.
“We will like to discuss it.” Shikamaru said. “As a group if you don’t mind.”
“Of course…” He replied, walking out the door.
“What do you think Shikamaru? We are the managers.” Temari asked. “Should we go through it?”
“I don’t trust him… I smell something evil going on here.” Kiba said. Akamaru barked with agreement.
“Also, Ashley told us to not trust the Sound.” Neji added.
“But we didn’t win the Band Slam and Aleria is not paying for anything.” Sasuke pointed out. “Also, we can’t fundraise the money; it’s too late for that.”
“There got to be a way.” Naruto said. “I don’t trust this guy.”
“Same here…” Sakura added.
“He has an evil aurora when he was here. It makes me nervous.” Lily said.
“I don’t want to go through this.” Hinata added. “Ashley doesn’t want us to trust the Sound.”
“But we are talking about her life here.” Chouji said. “We can’t turn down this offer.”
“We can least ask her sister one more.” Tenten said.
“Shikamaru, what do you think?” Temari asked.
“I think this situation is highly troublesome.” He said, letting out a sigh. Ashley is dying and the only chance we have to save her is right in front of us. However, Ashley forbids us to be near The Sound but it’s her only chance to live. How ironic. Ashley, for once in my life I don’t have an answer to this situation. I don’t know what to do. He let out another sigh. “This is the only way to save Ashley and we all want her to live. So I guess the only thing to do is to sign that contract.”
“Shikamaru…” Temari said.
“There is no other way.” Shikamaru said. “I can’t figure out a way to save her. We lost a lot of time.”
“So, what is your decision?” Orochimaru asked, walking in the room once more.
“We will join you.” Shikamaru replied.
“A wise choice…” Orochimaru said, smiling. I finally have them… Even her… He gave him the contract and a pen. “Sign here…” Shikamaru read through the contract and everyone had a disgusted look on their faces. They are all mine… He then turned his gaze to Ashley. What a beauty and it’s all mine. “Well, are you done?”
“Don’t rush me… What a drag…” Shikamaru said, continuing on reading.
“Are you sure about this?” Gaara whispered.
“It’s the only way and you know it Gaara.” Shikamaru replied. “I don’t like it too.” He slowly placed the eye of the pen on the white sheet of paper. It’s like signing my soul to the devil. All of the sudden, someone gripping his wrist, it was Aleria. “Ms. Aleria.”
“Don’t sign that…” Aleria said, pulling it away and crumbling it.
“Aleria, it has been awhile.” Orochimaru said, smiling. “You look good.”
“Orochimaru, how dare you try to trick these kids to be your slaves?” She snapped.
“Well, it worked for you.” Orochimaru replied.
“Aleria, what are you doing here?” Sasuke asked.
“I came here to protect my sister.” She replied.
“I thought…”
“You didn’t tell him… You didn’t tell them…” Orochimaru said. “My dear Aleria, you shouldn’t keep secrets.”
“What is he talking about?” Sasuke asked. “Aleria, what is going on here?”
“I signed the contract to be famous but while I was working for him, I learned something.” Aleria said. “I learned that Orochimaru was a drug dealer, the biggest boss in the market. He runs everything and I kept it to myself so I will be safe from harm. He knew my relations with my father so he was using me as a shield. My father couldn’t go near him without my life being endangered” She gripped her fist.
“You were very good at it.” Orochimaru said. “However, that stupid Sasori took you away from me. I was vulnerable without you so I found my new target.” He turned to Ashley. “Ashley…”
“I tried to push her away so she won’t get into this mess.” Aleria said. “But I made it worst.”
“Aleria…” Sasuke said. I was wrong about her…
“You are not laying a hand on her.” Gaara said.
“That is what her father told me before he died. What a horrible death…” He teased.
“My father died in a car accident.” Aleria said. Orochimaru started laughing.
“When Aaron and Ashley were heading home, I rammed their car into a tree.” Orochimaru said. “And shot your father. You should see him, crawling away and begging for his pathetic life.”
“YOU MONSTER…” Aleria screamed, racing towards him but he pulled a gun.
“Be smart Aleria…” Orochimaru said.
“How could you kill my father?” She cried.
“He was in the way…” Orochimaru said. “I couldn’t find Ashley so I thought she was dead. I set the car on fire to make it look like a car accident.” It was hard but it was worth it… “Then I heard a few days later that they found Ashley a couple of miles away from the scene. I guess Aaron tossed her out the car before I caught up with him.”
“YOU *******…” Naruto snapped. “I AM GOING TO KILL YOU.”
“Remember who is holding the gun here boy.” Orochimaru said.
“What do you want?” Aleria asked.
“Simple… I want her…” Orochimaru said, pointing to Ashley. “My company is dying and I need her to boost my reputation. Her voice will surely save my life.”
“You are not going to have her.” Sasuke snapped. “I won’t allow it.”
“I will…” He replied.
“Not today…” Itachi said, standing behind him and placing a gun on his head. “Orochimaru…”
“Itachi…” Orochimaru said.
“I finally have you.” He replied. “Drop your weapon… Now…”
“Tell me Itachi, what happens if you take me in?” He asked. “You have no proof to take me and my company down. Even with these people testimony, you need proof.”
“I can’t say that.” Sasori said, leaning at the door frame. “It’s been awhile Orochimaru…”
“Sasori…” Orochimaru said. “What are you doing here?”
“I am here to end you.” Sasori said, pulling out his phone and pressing a button. It was Orochimaru confessing his dirty deeds and it was recorded. “I was already at the door, recording everything. I think this will shut you down.”
“You bastard…” Orochimaru snapped. No, I am not going down now. I am going to have her if it is the last thing I do. He pointed his gun to Ashley and pulled the trigger. Gaara swiftly grabbed Ashley, causing them to hit the ground. The bullet pierced the air tank. “DAMN IT…” Itachi knocked him out with his gun.
“Never harm my family again…” Itachi said, handcuffing him.
“I can’t say he has the right to remain silent because he is silent.” Sasori said.
“Ashley, stay with me…” Gaara said, holding her and checking her pulse. I can’t feel anything… She can’t…
“The tank…” Sasuke said. “She needs some air…”
“Ashley, you better not leave me idiot.” Gaara snapped, holding back tears.
“WHAT IS GOING ON HERE?” Alexia screamed, racing in the room. “Ashley’s air tank… What is going on here?”
“Orochimaru…” Aleria said, crying. “He tried to take her away.”
“NURSE, GIVE ME ANOTHER AIR TANK RIGHT NOW…” Alexia screamed. “HURRY…” The nurse swiftly raced out the room, retrieving another tank. “How is she?” Sasuke paused in shocked, his hands were shaking. “Sasuke…”
“It’s too late…” Sasuke said, checking her pulse. This can’t be happening… “She’s gone.”
“No…She can’t be gone.” Aleria cried, holding on to Sasori. “She can’t…” Sasuke stood up and walked towards the wall. He banged his fist hard on to it, crying.
“Damn it… We failed…” Sasuke cried. I failed as a friend…I failed as a brother…
“No, she can’t be dead.” Gaara said, cupping her face. “Ashley, you better not leave me. Everyone needs you, I need you. Please come back.” He hugged her tightly in his embraced and leaked tears. “Ashley, please come back…” He kissed her forehead. “ASHLEY….”
“Ashley…” Hinata cried.
“Hinata…” Naruto said, holding back tears. He pulled her into his embrace and smoothed her hair. “I…I… I can’t believe it too.” Akamaru let out a long sorrowful howl. All the girls were crying. Blue… Why?
“Itachi…” Alexia cried, hugging him. “I didn’t save her.”
“No, it’s my fault. I wasn’t here on time.” Itachi said. Everyone cried for her, sharing the blame of her death.
“Ashley, don’t go… Not now… You said that you will wait for me. You better keep your word. Damn it, you can’t leave… I know you are strong, you can pull through this.” Gaara cried. “Please come back, I love you so much. Don’t leave me…” Everyone watched him clinched onto the inert body, soaking her with his endless tears. “Please…”
Awww.... I want to cry.
