A/N: OKAY SO THIS STORY TURNED INTO SOMETHING ENTIRELY DIFFERENT. At first I was just gonna do a happy fluffy beach day, but my twisted mind was like "No make it edgy... and throw in some gayness." So... yeah. That's how this garbage was born.

Chapter 4

summary: After the chaos of their daily lives, the ninja decide to take a break on a tropic island. However, things dont go as planned.

The sun was shining, the weather was warm, and it was a perfect day to just kick back and relax. After all the chaos that had been going on the ninja decided to take a day off. So, the crew packed up and set sail on the Bounty to a secluded island not many people knew of. It was mainly a safe area for refugee hybrids. Most people didn't even know of its existence, and when they did, they usually thought nothing of it. The island was very small, and few species lived on it, so it wasn't really a thriving area for fauna. The ninja would often go here to relax and wind down. All the residence that lived here, were aware of the ninja's identities as hybrids and were always very welcoming whenever they dropped by to give a visit. After all they had protected them and gave them a place to live without fear.

Zane was still recovering from his last encounter with hybrid hunters, so he was restricted to little physical activity. Which was making him go stir crazy. Usually Zane is good about sitting still for long periods of time. But not being able to do anything for several weeks starts to take a toll on you. Zane usually went out for a fly at least once every morning. Just being up in the clouds right as the sun is rising, letting it wash over you. The feeling was indescribable, and not being able to go out for his fly every morning, made Zane feel a little cooped up.

As soon as the Bounty landed on the Island, villagers where already outside cheering and waving at the ninja in greeting. The hybrids varied from mammals to reptiles, and even a few crossbreeds where on the island. Crossbreeds are a mixture of two hybrids. Usually they are extremely rare, because it's hard to get genetics to combine to create a child of two species, especially if they are extremely different.

The ninja climbed off the ship using a rope ladder that they carried on it. Hugs and handshakes were exchanged in greetings, as the villagers led them towards the town, hidden in the thick jungle. As soon as they entered, they were offered food and drinks. The ninjas were almost treated as gods here.

"Thank you all again for having us, but we really just need to lay low for a while." Cole calmed the crowd refusing to take any of their offered food. "We have had a rough couple of days and we just need to take a day to relax."

"Of course, Black ninja. You know you are always welcome here for whatever reason." The old villager spoke. He was a turtle hybrid, wise beyond his years. "If you are in need of anything just be sure to let us know, your usual sleeping courters will be prepared." The rest of the village had calmed down and went back to their duties. It was really a beautiful place. You could tell the people here were truly happy.

The ninja were escorted to the large temple that was in the center of the village. It had been an ancient ruin before the hybrids found it and fixed it up to its formal glory. The building was large and housed the chief hybrid and his family. It had large dining rooms for events and meetings. Large hallways were decorated with large windows and red embroidery carpets. They were all brought to a hallway on the third floor were each of them were given a personal room. Inside the rooms were furnished for standard needs. There was a large bed, a balcony, a dresser and a bathroom attached.

As soon as the ninja settled in, they opted for heading out to the beach. Sensei Wu decided to stay behind and speak with Kanuka, The chief.

Kai and Jay raced for the water as soon as their feet hit the sand. Nya, Cole and Zane stayed back setting up an umbrella they had found in the temple storage. Being in public and not having to bind back

tails and wings were such a relief, and they all cherished this time. Lloyd tried to join the much bigger Kai and Jay wrestling in the water, but quickly gave up and sat in the sand playing with his tail.

Cole allowed himself a smile at the retreating form of Jay crawling out of the water, the obvious looser of the water duel. As the wet cat trudged back to where the others sat, he plopped down on the sand just outside of the umbrella to avoid getting them wet.

"Damn dog..." He muttered referring to Kai woo was now helping Lloyd dig a pit in the sand.

Nya laughed. "How much you wanna bet they are gonna burry Lloyd."

Cole laughed along with Jay and added in to their conversation every now and then, but his attention was mostly on the grounded bird. Zane was absorbed in a book that he brought with him, ruffling his feathers every so often.

"So, Zane," Cole grasped the attention of the falcon hybrid.

"Yes, Cole?" He answered, putting down the book.

"You wanna go wander the temple tonight? I heard they added some sort of hot spring down by the gardens."

"Sure, I will accompany you. It sounds fun." He slightly smiled and dived right back into his book.

Cole sighed. This was a lot more boring than he thought it would be. By now Jay and Kai teamed up to go throw Nya in the water while Lloyd hovered above them. The bear didn't really feel up to getting wet right now, and Zane isn't being very entertaining either. He sat just staring at the ocean for a while before hearing a few footsteps approaching from behind.

He turned to see a few of the villagers who were quite familiar by now. As Kai, Jay and Nya approached back towards the umbrella they announced their arrival.

"Senshi!" Nya shrieked in excitement and ran to hug the islandic girl who was accompanied by two other men. Senshi was an albino fox hybrid and worked closely in the temple. She had bonded well to Nya as one of the servers who were supposed to make sure the ninja had everything they needed.

"Nya! My girl, it's been a while!" The two foxes shared greetings while the other hybrids who accompanied Senshi went over to greet the ninja as well.

"Chanto! Kalla!" Jay greeted the two familiar hybrids giving them a hug. Chanto and Kalla were both chimpanzee hybrid brothers who also worked as the temple staff.

"Hey guys! We heard you were back on the island, wanted to come say hi." Chanto gave a high-five to Lloyd before giving a "man-hug" to Cole.

The ninja caught up with their old friends, chatting and laughing the evening away. Just as the sun was lining the trees and starting to set, Chanto and Cole decided to go and gather some coconuts to make smoothies while everyone else headed back to the temple.

As they walked through the forest to the gardens Chanto and Cole made small talk. They always got along the best, as both had similar personalities. Brash, Strong, and a bit reckless at times. When they made it to the gardens, they collected multiple fruits and started making their way back towards the temple.

"So, you and Zane huh?" Chanto side glanced towards Cole with a sly smirk.

Cole immediately choked on the coconut water he was currently drinking. Chanto started chuckling slightly at the blushing bear as he tried to stop coughing.

"M-me and Z-Zane?!" Cole gasped out trying to breathe again. "Wh-what are you talking about?!"

Chanto stopped walking and turn towards the flustered bear. "Come on Cole, you can't keep it a secret you guys smell exactly like each other." He smiled as Cole blushed even harder (if that was even physically possible).

"I-It's not like that!" Cole ran-walked to catch up with Chanto so they could continue their walk. "We are just friends, we spend a lot of time together... That's all."

"Oh, come on!" Chanto laughed at Cole's tinted cheeks. "Friends don't get that smell just from hanging out. What have you been doing? Sharing clothes?"

"Well... I mean I did let him wear one of my hoodies cause he didn't have any but-" Chanto cut Cole off with his laughter.

"Sure... friends." Chanto winked at Cole. "We will stick with that for now, but if you need any help with anything... I hear the tidepools look lovely at night."

Before Cole could protest Chanto opened the large doors to the temple which they had arrived at. Walking to the large kitchen they set down the baskets of fruit, greeting the other ninja who were already there chatting.

"Took you long enough." Nya raised an eyebrow with a smile. "What'd you do? Talk a walk around the entire island?"

"Something like that." Chanto gave Cole a 'look'. Who laughed in response.

"Let's make some smoothies woo!" Jay screeched jumping off one of the counters he was perched on.

"Yeah... No." Kai tugged on the back of the hybrid's shirt. "None of us trust you with any kitchen appliances. Let Zane handle the smoothies."

"Oh, come on! I blow up a toaster one time and-" Jay was cut off by Zane taking out the blender.

"It's alright Jay, why don't you all wait in the sitting room while I finish these up." He said cutting up the fruit.

Jay nodded and ran out the door, Kai, Nya, Senshi, Chanto, and Kalla right behind him. Cole decided to stay behind to help make the smoothies (crack open the coconuts because nobody else can).

Zane finished the smoothies and they brought them out to the rest of the hybrid group. Zane and Cole sat towards the back of the room on one of the couches, while the rest of them played some sort of homemade board game. After a while of watching Kai and Jay duke it out, the bear and falcon hybrid decided to wander off.

After walking around the temple and the village, hanging out with other hybrids and learning some island traditions, the sun was completely set, and it was starting to get chilly.

"Hey, you still wanna go check out the hot spring?" Cole asked, gently nudging the ice ninja with his elbow.

"Sure, I'm certain the others are entertaining themselves thoroughly" Zane smiled as they walked back towards the gardens which were located in the jungle behind the temple. By the gardens, there was a stone path which lead to a natural spring of volcanic heated water.

Both already in their swim trunks from earlier that day, they shed their tops and got in the warm water.

"Damn I don't think I could ever get out of this." Cole whispered sinking down so only his nose and up were above water.

"It is quite pleasant, yes." Zane nodded in agreement. The warm water on his feathers felt amazing, especially in the chilly air.

"So, how has Chanto been doing?" Zane asked.

Suddenly remembering the conversation they had earlier, Cole sunk a little deeper to hide the cringe on his face. "Oh, He's good. Him and his brother are trying to become a royal guard or something."

"Interesting. I wish them well on their quest. They would make fantastic guards." Zane nodded.

There was a comfortable silence as they listened to the many sounds of the jungles.

"How long do you think it's gonna take for Jay to get bored and find us?" Cole broke the silence earning a laugh out of Zane.

"I'd say an hour tops." The falcon giggled.

After an hour or so of chatting, the two hybrids headed back to the temple where most of the ninja were already asleep and in their respective rooms. Cole and Zane both said goodnight before heading into their own rooms which were right across from each other.

After taking a shower, and dressing himself in clean clothes, Cole plopped down on his bed and quickly drifted off to a dreamless sleep. For once not having to worry about the daily struggles being a hybrid contains.

The sun was rising high on the island and tropical birds were already screeching. The sunlight peeking in his room woke Cole up. He peaked his eyes open and slowly sat up. Quickly getting dressed, Cole walked out of his room and down the halls of the temple to the dinning room where everyone was already seated.

"Ah Cole!" Kanuka, the chief greeted the elemental master. "We were just about to send someone to get you."

"Sorry to keep you waiting Kanuka Sir." Cole bowed respectfully and went to sit down at the end of the table by Zane. The table was low to the ground like a coffee table. And they all sat on decorative pillows on the floor.

"Nah we were just gonna let you sleep in a while. You and Zane weren't back till really late." Kai gave an accusing smirk.

"Shut up Kai, we were at the hot springs." Cole hid his blush by shoving an apple slice into his mouth from the bowl of cut up fruit that was being passed around.

"Chief Kanuka, we would all like to thank you for letting us stay at your home, it is quite an honor." Zane said giving his respects as they all got their fruit and began to eat, (Of course some meat was brought out too for the carnivores).

"No need for that, young ninja." Kanuka smiled. He was an old panda hybrid who had a long white beard, decorated with braids and beads. "As the protectors of Ninjago, you are welcome here anytime!"

As breakfast went on Kanuka shared stories of his niece to Wu, both reminiscing in memories of their beloved Niece/Nephew and all the trouble they could get in.

"Ah yes, she is quite the rowdy one. Almost got us all in a big heap of trouble once." Kanuka continued his story. "She had gone down to the banks of the other side of the island where a travel crew were restocking their ship of supplies."

"Wait, other people come to the island?" Jay asked. He thought the island wasn't even on the maps.

"Sometimes yes. It's usually sailors, or travelers who are looking for land to stop and rest. They don't ever stay for more than a few days. Besides they never travel through the jungle, we are safe on our side of the island." Kanuka explained. "If they had spotted her, then it would have been different. Anyone knowing the location of a potential hybrid refuge could end in catastrophe for us all."

Wu gave the 'Don't-try-and-do-what-we-just-discussed-or-You're-going-to-be-in-so-much-trouble' look to Lloyd who was playing with his food at the far end of the table.

"They come here every moon or so, we have procedures in order to keep us safe." Chief Kanuka explained the detailed operation of scouts and rules that take place should they ever be discovered.

"Wow you guys seemed... very prepared for this." Nya said in fascination.

"Yeah, I don't think I've seen such organization since Nya went through my closet." Kai smiled.

"It is very logical though. It seems you have thought of every scenario." Zane was impressed by the solidness of their structure.

After breakfast Chief Kanuka took them on a tour of the village, they had added some new buildings and huts since the last time they were here.

While explaining a tradition to the ninja, A bird-type hybrid flew up to them in a frantic hurry.

"Chief! Chief!" The bird landed and dusted himself off.

"Yes, Manti? What is it?" Kanuka asked concerned. Manti was a scout who patrols the island border, the only reason he would abandon his post is if something were to happen.

"Chief, there are boats lined up all along the east beach!" He panted out of breath. A few of the villagers hanging around had heard and started to gather a crowd around them. "Seven of them in total. Medium in size."

"There were boats there not 2 weeks ago, what could they possibly be here for?" Kanuka was now worried. "Gather the rest of the scouts, send them out to every beach to check for boats. I want a full evaluation."

The ninja watched in concern as he started barking out orders to villagers who sprung into action, stopping anything they were previously doing.

Villagers were camouflaging their huts with leaves and pre-made nets that covered them to disguise them as foliage. Some were gathering the few children and heading towards the temple. In an unknown emergency like this everyone was to report to the temple and stay in the large open walkway. Hiding like this was truly a sad sight, but it was necessary for Hybrids. The world wasn't ready to understand them yet.

"Is there anything we can do to help?" Kai asked Kanuka who was still giving out orders.

"At the moment, not much." Kanuka answered. Escort the remaining Hybrids to the temple and wait there, I will join you all shortly."

They all nodded and spread out to make sure everyone made it to the temple safely.

A few minutes after arriving, the ninja helped everyone get situated and kept everyone calm. They were all sitting on the floor of the large entry way, huddling close to their loved once. Senshi, Chanto, and Kalla were there as well helping with the other temple staff to keep the small crowd quiet and peaceful.

Chief Kanuka entered the temple's large doorways followed by the parrot scout who had initially warned him.

"Is everything alright?" Nya ran up to the chief who looked slightly grave.

"Unfortunately, no." Kanuka whispered as to not alert the hybrid villagers. "The boats seemed to have purposefully sought our island out, they are about to send out scouts to the rest of the island."

"What can we do?" Jay asked determined. This was a central hub for Hybrids, they couldn't let it fall.

"Right now, nothing. We will be monitoring their progress but revealing the ninja's true identities is too much of a risk." Kanuka was right, if they found the ninja protecting a hybrid refuge, Ninjago would go up in flames. "The island is small, so it won't take them long to search the entire island. A few days at most."

"The rest of the village is hidden so that isn't a problem, but what about the temple?" Kai asked.

"We do have a method to hide ourselves should it come to that but its dangerous." Chief Kanuka said. "Come, let us go to a more private space to discuss this."

All the ninja and the chief walked back towards the parts of the temple that the villagers weren't allowed. Sensei Wu decided to stay back with Lloyd to keep him out of trouble.

"What's this method you were speaking of?" Zane asked as they walked down empty halls.

"It's an ancient magic we discovered when the found this temple. We have found ways to make it work but every time the life force was drained from whichever hybrid used it." Kanuka explained. "But before then, they were able to make a magic barrier that shielded the temple and hid it from the outside."

"Like a force field?" Cole asked.

"Yes, something of that matter." Chief Kanuka led them to a large circular room that was mostly empty but had couches and pillows against the walls in some places. In the center of the room there was a post that held a glowing blue crystal. The crystal was fairly large and seemed to be floating above its golden post.

"This is in the center of the temple and the crystal seems to be linked to it somehow." Kanuka let the ninja go closer to inspect the crystal.

Zane inched closer to where the blue glow could be reflected on his face. He stared closely, examining the crystal for a few seconds. "I think I know what this is..."

"Wait really?" Jay asked surprised.

"It just looks like a giant magic crystal to me." Kai muttered.

"Back when we were retrieving our golden weapons, I saw something similar to this in the ice temple." Zane explained walking around the golden post still staring at the crystal. "I had asked Sensei about it later and he explained to me it was an elemental crystal, capable of absorbing and homing in on a particular element in order to create energy."

"You mean like some sort of power source?" Jay asked.

"Yes, one that would feed off a particular element." Zane explained finally turning away from the crystal. "The reason it was injuring your hybrids, is because since they didn't have elemental powers it was draining any energy they had."

"Fascinating..." Kanuka's eyes widened. "So, you're telling me that this is an ice crystal? One of your own element correct?"

"Woah, Woah." Cole waved his hands, interrupting. "You're not possibly thinking of using yourself on that thing, are you?"

"Well... Yes." Zane said a bit awkwardly. "If I am correct, I should be able to use my elemental power to keep up a shield around the temple."

"And if you're not?" Nya asked.

"Then I guess we are out of options." Zane shrugged.

"Hold on now." Kai put a hand up. "We don't know exactly what this thing could do to you."

"Kai's right," Jay added. "You've just recovered from a serious illness, and this crystal is like a thousand years old. What if it's broken in some way?"

Zane harden his expression a bit "Well I can't just sit here, if the men with the boats make it to the temple then they will find all the hybrids."

"We're not saying that you shouldn't use it exactly." Nya said trying to calm everyone down, her ears flickering a bit. "We are just saying maybe we should leave it for a last resort kinda thing. We don't even know if they will come all the way across the island yet."

"Nya is correct. I suggest that you would save your strength until we get work of their current whereabouts." Chief Kanuka stroked his beard a few times.

"Alright." Zane agreed.

Cole stayed silent. He didn't have a good feeling about any of this.

It had been a few hours since everyone was gathered in the entry of the temple. Staff had decided to hand out snacks and the villagers set up a dancing stage out of crates, so they could entertain the restless youth.

It was then when another bird hybrid scout had returned with the news. It was a group of hunters. Apparently, there was a rumor that ancient beasts were hidden on this island, so they had gathered a party in hopes to catch one. Their search was quickly expanding, and they would arrive at the temple in half an hour. It looked like they were setting up different camps all over the island to scout for these 'mythical creatures.'

Since the temple was in the middle of the jungle, they would no doubt set up a hunter camp nearby. This news was grave to all, and its when they finally gave Zane the greenlight for their backup plan.

They all walked back into the circular room but stayed back as Zane advanced on the crystal with a determined expression. His feathers rustled nervously. Slowly Zane extended a hand to the glowing crystal. As soon as contact was made, the room filled with a bright blinding light. All the ninja and the chief had to shield their eyes.

After a few moments it died down and they all peaked out of their hands. The room was almost flowing with magic. The air was sparkling, and it seemed the crystal was absorbing it. They couldn't see it from behind, but Zane's blue irises were glowing a brilliant icy blue. A bright white beam shot straight up from the crystal and out of a small opening in the ceiling. From there an entire barrier rose around the temple, hiding its existence from the outside world.

"Woah..." All the ninja's stared in wonder.

"It worked!" Jay shouted after a moment of silence.

Zane took his hand off the crystal, but his eyes were still glowing as he turned back around to his approaching friends.

"I don't need to keep physical contact, but I need to stay close, so I can maintain the link." Zane explained turning slightly towards the crystal that was still emitting a beam of magic to the sky.

"That's great and all but isn't this going to drain your magic?" Nya asked, her tail twitching slightly in concern.

"Yes, it will, but I should be able to keep it up as long as I need to." Zane nodded. "It will have no long-lasting damage."

"I could never ask this much of you all. Truly my people and I thank you." Kanuka smiled in gratitude.

"It really is no problem Chief Kanuka." Zane smiled. "It is our duty and our honor."

"I must return back to my duties as Chief, if you are in need of anything let me know." Kanuka left the room swiftly to return to his people and give them an update.

"You guys go on ahead I will stay here and keep Zane company." Cole nodded his head towards the door. The other ninja departed to go help with the hybrids and Cole stepped up close to Zane who was currently staring at the crystal.

As soon as the door shut the bear hybrid spoke up. "How long do your really think you can keep this up?"

"As long as it takes-"

"Cut the bullshit Zane." Cole interrupted. Zane went quiet and continued to stare at the crystal. "That thing is gonna drain you like a double A battery, there's no way you can keep this up forever."

"I must try." He muttered. Wings twitching anxiously. "Who knows what will happen if these 'Hunters' find them."

"Well do you at least have a game-plan?" Cole asked, Surely Zane of all people would know what he is doing.

"Meditation." Zane half-joked. "Lots of it."

Cole snickered. "Of course."

It had been a whole 12 hours since Zane had raised the force field and it was starting to show. He had meditated most of the day away but the bags under his eyes showed his exhaustion. He could not rest though, or he risk cutting the link. The others tried to get him to eat something, but he refused every time.

The scout had been right, and a hunter camp was set up not a mile away from the temple. Without the barrier, they would surly spot it. If they didn't see any creatures, they would probably move camps in a few days, so Zane just had to hold out until then.

The other ninja decided to move all their pillows and blankets to the circle room to stay up with Zane and keep him company while he meditated. They all tried to stay awake, but one by one they eventually passed out in the early hours of the morning. Still Zane kept his grip on the crystal and stayed focused.

By the second day Zane could feel the effects physically, all his limbs were heavy, and he was exhausted. More meditation was ensured. The other ninja came to and from throughout the day. They left at times to help Hand out meals and entertain the poor hybrids, but Cole stayed most of the time to keep Zane company. When he couldn't meditate any longer Zane would get up and walk around the room to stretch his legs and wings. After a while Cole decided to bring Zane some books from the library to keep him entertained as well.

It was around noon on the second day when the ninja tried to get him to eat something again.

"Come on Zane, you really need to eat something." Jay said trying to force a bowl of soup into the meditating falcon's hands.

"I ate the grapes you brought earlier." Zane said not even opening his eyes.

"That was like seven hours ago, and you didn't even eat them all." Jay growled out a bit frustrated.

"Dude you need to keep your strength up. You're literally giving most of it to a magical crystal." Kai raised an eyebrow.

"I told you, I'm not hungry." Zane said again, still unmoving from his lotus position.

"Jesus Zane, you are impossible to deal with." Jay slapped a hand on his face.

"Here, Cole, why don't you get him to eat it." Kai took the bowl from Jay and handed it to an unprepared bear.

"What makes you think he is gonna listen to me?" Cole asked raising an eyebrow. "He isn't even listening to our conversation right now." Cole pointed to a Zane who was totally ignoring all of them.

"Because he does anything you tell him to. Because you're Cole!" Nya gestured to the bear hybrid.

"What does that have to do with anything?" Cole asked obviously oblivious to what they were trying to imply.

"Oh my god." Nya shoved the bear hybrid in Zane's direction who had stood up and was pacing around the room. "Just give it to him."

Zane finally stopped his pacing and put his hands on the golden post that held up the crystal as if to keep himself steady.

Cole walked up to him, the others obviously staring from behind. "Hey Zane. You really should eat something."

As he caught a better look at Zane, he looked absolutely exhausted. His eyes were still glowing but not as brightly. They were also dull and clouded, not his usual sharp and focused. Zane's jaw was also clenched, and his knuckles were white, he was obviously having a hard time keeping himself standing.

"I'm not hungry." Zane said avoid of emotions, as he continued to stare ahead into nothing. His hands were shaking, and his breathing was short and uneven.

Just as Cole was going to convince him some more, Zane's knees finally gave out and he fell forwards on all fours.

"Zane!" A few of the ninja's cried out in alarm as they all rushed over to see if he was okay. The bowl of soup long forgotten, Cole was over his shoulders holding the shaking form.

Zane's eyes were clenched shut and the beam was flickering slightly.

"Zane are you alright?!" Cole asked.

It took Zane a few seconds to put himself back together before answering. "Y-yeah I'm alright." He nodded attempting to get back up, but almost falling back down in the process. Luckily Cole was right there to catch him. Cole picked him up bridal style and carried him over to one of the corners of the room where a couch was, the others trailing behind.

"I knew this was a bad idea, there is no way you can keep this up." Nya said with more worry than frustration.

"there is nothing else we can do." Zane reasoned with her again. The other ninja were crowded around him, His eyes still glowing but even duller than before. "This barrier is the only thing keeping the hunters from discovering the hybrids... I cannot allow them to hurt the ones in this temple."

The others sighed with understanding. Zane was going to do this whether they wanted him to or not. And he was right too, the hunters were out scouting the island and they couldn't risk revealing an ancient temple to them.

"Okay fine. But if your going to do this then you have to promise us you will try to eat whenever we ask you." Kai finally stated.

"Fine." Zane agreed, and the bowl of soup was fetched for him.

The ninja all sat around him keeping Zane company as he ate what he could and then opted to leaning on Cole's shoulder. If he was being honest, he felt terrible. His strength was long gone, and he was having a hard time focusing on anything.

Cole just let him rest his eyes and rubbed the falcons back. The other ninja ended up leaving later to help Chief with duties. Cole stayed behind as usual to share company and his strength with Zane.

It had been another 2 days and the scout's reports were improving. Apparently, some of the other hunters that were camped out had packed up and headed back to the boats. The hope was that the closest camp would soon follow.

Zane wasn't fairing too good either. Nobody was sure how much longer he would last. He had no strength left and he could barely move his head. He was almost always curled up on the sofa with Cole, who would rub circles on his back and smooth out his feathers. The beam would flicker sometimes but Zane always managed to keep it up, he had to use all his strength just to focus. He couldn't do much else.

The ninja had just got done handing out food rations in the entry hall and had gone back to the circular room to see how their friend was doing. Cole no longer left his side and would stay up at night with him.

"How's he doing?" Jay asked as they walked into the circular room.

"Not sure." Cole replied looking down at his feathered fried who was curled up on his side. "I don't think he can hold the barrier up much longer."

"Either way he has already surpassed all our expectations." Nya said with a smile. Although he doesn't look like it, Zane is strong.

"The scouts think that the humans are all going to meet up at the beach tomorrow and head out." Kai gave them the good news. "Hopefully he can hold out until then."

"I'm just a bit curious as to why there is an ice crystal here, in the jungle." Jay asked looked back to the crystal that was barely glowing. "Why not an earth crystal? Or something more island related."

"Zane was telling me about it a while ago." Cole explained. "He said that each crystal had its own special use. Ice crystals in particular were able to create invisible barriers. The islanders who were settled here probably used it to protect themselves."

"It doesn't seem very practical, I mean sure Zane has held it up for this long, but what good is only a few days of protection going to do against an enemy?" Kai asked.

"Well during the time there were probably other ice elementals to help out." Nya explained. "I was reading one of Sensei Wu's scrolls and it talked about how there were way more than just one of every element."

"Probably killed them all off just like the hybrids." Kai spat out bitterly, his ears turning backwards. "It always comes back to the humans being savage creatures."

Everyone looked down sadly. It was no secret that Kai and Nya lost their parents to the humans, they probably held a bigger grudge than anybody else. The ninja always tried to keep in mind that not all of them are bad, and they just don't understand. But sometimes its hard to keep that mindset when they try to destroy everything you love.

Zane was aware of everyone's presence but didn't have the strength to listen to what they were saying. He needed to focus. He needed to stay focused. An entire tribe of hybrids were counting on him, he couldn't let them down. He couldn't let them go through what he did. He felt completely drained. After this, Zane swore he was gonna sleep for a week.

The thing was, the crystal was draining his elemental powers, which they each naturally produced all the time. Using too much power at one time is dangerous because the sudden lack of elemental power can make your body shut down in a sort of "emergency recharge." Without resting for several days, Zane's levels were already extremely low, and the crystal was draining him faster than he could 'recharge.' He knew that he would run out of juice soon and the barrier would fail. So, in order to hold out as long as possible, he was allowing the crystal to drain his life force as well. It wouldn't have any long-lasting effect unless this continued for an extended amount of time, but it was still a risk the others wouldn't like him taking. So, Zane simply didn't tell them.

It was around midnight when Zane was starting to feel a sharp pain in his chest every time he inhaled. Cole noticed his flinching and eventually looked up from the book he was reading.

"You okay?" He asked softly, as it was completely silent in the room except for the sounds of labored breathing.

"Yeah. Just hurting a bit." Zane's voice was muffled as his face was currently buried in Cole's chest. "I'm fine."

The clenching of Zane's hands told Cole otherwise.

"You want something to eat?" Cole put down the book and shifted a bit so Zane was sitting up a bit.

"Not really." Zane's eyes were still glowing, but even weaker than before. His power was running out and it was showing through the barrier. It would flicker and warp from time to time. His skin was paler (if that was even possible), and his eyes less focused. "I... I can't hold on much longer."

Cole was almost shocked. These past 4 days Zane had never been negative about his grip on the barrier. He was finally caving, and that slightly scared Cole. "This can't be healthy for you. If you want to stop now, I doubt any hybrid out there would hold it against you."

"I can't do that Cole." Zane shook his head slightly leaning against Cole. He didn't have the strength to sit up on his own. "You already know that."

"It was worth a shot." The bear chuckled slightly. "You've always just been like this."

"Like what?" The falcon's curiosity got the better of him sometimes.

"You know... like how you're willing to do anything as long as it protects someone." Cole laughed. "I guess that explains a bit why the ice crystal generates barriers. It reflects a lot of your personality."

"Perhaps... but I know for a fact if need be any of the others would do the same." Zane muttered tiredly.

"Probably, but not as eagerly as you." Cole put an arm around the ice master's shoulder as they both stared at the glowing crystal in the darkened room. "Its kinda funny though. How I'm supposed to be the one who protects you. And then you pull out some magic shit and end up protecting all of us."

Zane laughed at his comment. "Well maybe if you didn't get in so much trouble, I wouldn't have to pull out the magic." He said teasingly.

Cole just nudged him back with a smile, before falling into silence again.

"You should get some rest." Zane muttered. "Just because I have to stay awake doesn't mean you do too."

"I couldn't do that to you, Zane." Cole frowned. "It wouldn't be fair."

"If I end up failing the barrier, then someone is going to have to protect the hybrids." Zane reasoned. "Just in case, we need all of our available ninja rested and ready."

Cole cursed reason. Zane was right though, he would admit. Already having one ninja out of commission would be bad enough. "Fine but only for a few hours." He gave in.

Cole leaned back on the red couch, Zane falling with him. "Just wake me up in like 3 hours."

"Whatever you say, Cole." Zane muttered as he snuggled back into Cole's side to at least try and get comfortable.

He did admit, having the bear hybrid here with him helped a lot. Just having someone to lay next to and listen to their breathing kept Zane's mind as focused as it could be at this point. Besides he didn't want to be alone right now. Not having anyone to talk to, he was reminded of the pain in his chest. Zane gave a small sight. This was going to be a long night.

It was around 6:00 am the next day when the barrier fell. Only for less than 20 seconds, then Zane was able to catch himself and pull it back up, but it was still a risk. Scouts were then sent back out to make sure nobody had gotten a glimpse of them in just those few seconds.

Whether anyone had or not, Zane still felt horrible for it. He hadn't mean to, but his focus slipped for just a second and the link was broken. Zane felt so incredibly guilty, and the overwhelming exhaustion had just been to much for him. The ice master had broke down crying with Cole trying to calm him down. The moment of bringing up the barrier for the second time had taken every last ounce of power Zane had in him. Cole made sure to keep the other ninja out of the room to protect Zane's dignity. Cole knew the ice ninja probably didn't want anyone to see him in his moment of weakness.

The barrier wouldn't stay up for another few hours, is what everyone guessed. Zane was mentally and physically exhausted, practically immobile, and the barrier was glitching like crazy. Everyone just prayed the Scouts would come back with good news.

The ninja (besides Zane and Cole) were all sitting at a table in a large meeting room where they spoke to Chief Kanuka about the current situation.

Senshi and the two chimpanzee brothers had come to the room as well, sitting at the far end of the table.

"We can't decide what to do until the scouts come back, but its better to prepare for any possible situation." Chief kanuka announced to the ninja.

"Zane is holding up so far, but I doubt it will last till noon." Kai said gravely. They didn't know why it went down this morning, but Cole refused to let them in, so it must have been bad.

"We need to be ready incase of an attack." Nya added as she munched on some grapes. "Who knows what those human savages are capable of."

"They obviously would have hunting equipment, so I say everyone says here while we take them out ninja style." Jay jumped up and started making ridiculous karate poses and shouting things like "Kapow, Shwoosh, hi-ya!"

"There are too many of them on the island for us to do that. The best tactic we could use is to scare them away." Nya argued. "Then we wouldn't be hurting any of them, and they would leave thinking its haunted or something."

"Yeah but that would only draw even more attention to the island." Kai's tail twitched under the table. "There aren't many options to keep both the hybrids and the humans safe. So, I say we just get rid of all the hunters."

"Kai, we can't just kill them!" Jay sounded a bit disgusted. "I know they have done some pretty awful things, but it goes against all of our honor."

"So, they aren't gonna miss just a few of them." Kai spat out bitterly. "Besides they are here hunting mythical creatures. They deserve it-"

"Kai that's enough!" Nya slammed her hands down on the table, silencing her brother. "We are not killing them. It's wrong."

"Human hunters like these killed our parents, Nya!" Kai's temper flared up. "We can't just let them go and do the same to some other kids!"

"You think I don't know that!" Nya yelled louder, slightly startling everyone in the room. Nya barely ever raised her voice like this. "I miss them too Kai, but I will never stoop to their level. And I thought you would never too. I guess I was wrong for assuming that..."

Nya got up in a bit of anger and swiftly left the room, not being able to stand her brother much longer.

"So... That happened." Jay gave a nervous laugh glancing back at the stunned Chief.

After a few moments of silence Kai got up and ran out of the room as well leaving Jay alone with the chief and the three other hybrids.

"Nya, wait!" Kai shouted running up to Nya who was swiftly walking down the hall. After catching up with her he walked slightly faster, so he could be in front of her, stopping her movement. "Nya... Listen I'm sorry okay?"

"I'm not really in the mood right now, Kai." Nya's ears lied flat against her head in annoyance. She tried to pass him, but Kai put out a hand in front of her.

"No really. I need to apologize." Kai, usually the hot tempered one was slightly amused by the swap of characteristics. "We have all been a little tense these past few days, and I took it too far. There is a line that we as ninja shall never cross, and I suggested it. I'm sorry."

After a few moments of looking him over, Nya finally sighed. Her orange tail flickered a bit before she looked him back in the eyes. "Fine... You're forgiven. I just... I need some time to think right now."

Before she could walk away again, Kai grabbed ahold of her arm. "You know I would never do anything to hurt you, sis, Right?"

"Of course." Nya smiled before continuing walking down the hallway to her room.

When Kai entered the meeting room again, Jay and Kalla were talking about Zane and Cole's status.

"Well him staying with Zane has increased the barrier stamina by 20%. That's why it has lasted this long." Kalla stated.

"What are you talking about? Cole being there has nothing to do with the barrier time, He is just keeping Zane safe." Jay's ear twitched.

"Well according to a study done, having one's mate with you increases your probability of success in many categories and-"

Kalla was cut off by Jay spitting out the water he was drinking. "I'm sorry what?!"

"I was just trying to explain that having Zane's mate with him is helping-"

"Zane... and Cole?!" Jay eyes were widened with surprise. "No no no no. They aren't mated, just friends. That's it."

"Oh, my mistake, I assumed with all the time they spent together they had already mated." Kalla apologized, with Chanto and Kai dying of laughter in the background. "Then are they just courting?"

"No? I- I don't think so?" Jay muttered out with newfound confusion. "I mean they do spend a lot of time together, and they go out on grocery runs a lot, and sometimes Zane is wearing Cole's clothes... Oh my God they're courting."

Kai finally fell to the floor with laughter as the Chief stared on with confusion.

"Wait Kai... YoU kNeW aBoUt ThIs?!" Jay stood up slamming his hands on the table.

"Well yeah..." Kai gasped out between laughs.

Before Jay could yell at Kai anymore, the temple was rattled with a large cracking sound. Everyone quickly ran over to the giant window and looked out to the barrier that was splintering and crumbling.

Everyone held their breath as it finally shattered with a large boom and the barrier was no more.

Kai and Jay both shared a look of terror before running to the circular room. They burst open the doors as soon as they rounded the corner.

Zane was laying on the floor with his head in Cole's lap. Cole looked very frantic as he was checking the falcon's pulse.

"Is he breathing?!" Jay shouted with panic as they ran over to their friends on the floor by the crystal. The crystal was no longer glowing and just stayed suspended floating.

"Yeah... yeah he is alive." Cole let out a sight of relief as he found the pulse.

Just then Zane coughed a few times before regaining consciousness. "I... I'm sorry... I c-couldn't-"

Close hushed him by putting a hand on his forehead. "It's okay Zane, you did you're best. We're proud of you."

"You did your part, now rest up." Kai patted their feathered friend on the shoulder with a small smile. "We can handle everything from here."

Sensei Wu accompanied by the Chief and Nya barged into the room. They were also quickly followed by the three scouts who were sent out that morning.

"What's the news?" Cole asked with a bit of worry. This was the final truth. If the hunters were still here, then the hybrid refuge may end up falling.

Sensei tilted his hat up to reveal a large smile on his face. "The hunter's have left the island. We are all safe."

The room broke out into a chorus of cheers. Nya running over to hug her brother, who also put an arm around Jay.

"The news will be announced to the other hybrids shortly." Chief kanuka then gestured to Cole and Zane. "Senshi will escort you to the medical ward where a healer is already waiting."

The albino fox appeared in the doorway waving a hand for Cole to follow, who had already picked up the passed-out bird bridal style.

Zane's eyes fluttered open to the sunlight in them. He winced but then looked around at his surroundings. He was in his room at the island. Suddenly it all came back to him. The hunters, the barrier, the crystal. Oh no if he was in here then that meant-

All his anxiety was put to rest as soon as the door creaked open to reveal a certain bear carrying a food tray.

"Oh Zane!" Cole looked surprised as he noticed the bird hybrid sitting up in the bed. "You're awake!"

"Cole?" Zane was confused as the earth elemental rushed over and placed the tray down on the nightstand. "What happened?"

"Oh, you passed out, but turns out you held out just long enough. The hunters left the island and all the hybrids are safe." Cole smiled. "Kinda surprised you're awake though, I thought you'd be out for a whole week"

"So... everyone's okay?" Zane asked still a little dazed. He was still exhausted, but he could feel some of his powers back already.

"Yup!" Cole smiled, sitting down on the side of the bed next to Zane. "You did it, Zane. You protected them all."

"Good. Now I'm going back to sleep." Zane half joked earning a laugh out of Cole.

"I'm glad you're already feeling better." Cole said in a softer voice. "You had me worried there for like... 5 days."

Zane smiled a bit as Cole leaned in to give him a peck on the forehead.

"Goodnight Zane." Cole left the water and food on the nightstand for whenever Zane woke up. He then walked over to the door, shutting it quietly as he left.

"Goodnight love."

A/N:

OH DIDDLY DANG THAT WAS A BIGGIN' sorry this one took so long I had the worst writers block for the longest time and then my brain spat out this so oof. also this has over 8000 words in it, which i think is the longest oneshot i have ever written so... cool i guess.