Hi guys, sorry for the long wait but my Halloween fic took a lot of time away from me to finish this. However, in exchange you're getting a nice long chapter. :) What you must know about this chapter that lot of action and twist gonna happen so prepare for it and read the warnings. Moreover, there will be TyKa moments, too, which I hope you will like, hehe.

Thank you for all those who support me to write this story, even for those who only read but not review, and also for my Guest readers whom I can't thank it personally. It means a lot to me and thrills me to continue for you all. :)

Disclaimer: do not own Beyblade just the plot

Warnings: mild angst and violence, dirty scenes (deeper yaoi will come in later chapters), hurtful scenes that might upset you, you're reading for your own responsibility

Have a good time reading!

~ CHAPTER 10 ~

Arrival of the Darkness

Kai should have known that Takao would be true to his word and visited him sooner than later, yet he was surprised when the young teen appeared at his house on Sunday morning.

"Good morning Alfred!" Takao greeted from behind the gate.

The butler stopped sweeping the pathway and turned around. "It's Albert, young man." he said grumpily under his moustache.

"Oh, yeah… forgot… sorry, hehe." Takao smiled sheepishly. "I came to see Kai. Will you let me in to him… please?" he added with a flattering look.

Albert's moustache ruffled as he growled, then went to open the gate.

"You find my master back on the fields. He is training."

"Thanks man. I'll take back what I said earlier, you're not so much a grumpy penguin as I first thought." he said brightly and took the path towards the direction he'd memorised so well.

"The little sassy still needs to learn politeness." Albert shook his head with a scowl.

Takao jogged his way back around the mansion before came to stop. He smiled widely when he spotted the dual haired's back a few meters ahead of him. He was aiming his arrow precisely in the bow while a stock of quiver with many arrows inside was placed beside his leg. At this position Kai looked so attractive in his eyes.

He was wearing his brown, leather sleeveless waistcoat, even though the weather was kind of chilly as they trotted in autumn now… man, this guy was a massive cold-stander! But somehow Takao couldn't mind it. The sight was just so fascinating… the way Kai's ivory skin glimmered in the sunbeams, his perfect muscles stretched intently by the pressure… Just how many hours did he train a day? Going dazed, Takao did not notice he was drooling. Then his eyes travelled to those gleaming crimson eyes that made him shiver since the first sight they looked at him… and those thin, rosy lips above his white scarf… he would so taste them – Wait. What the heck am I thinking? Have I gone crazy? He quickly shook himself out of his stupor and walked up to the older teen.

Kai grabbed another arrow from his quiver then rose it up in aim.

"Hey Kai!"

Swish.

The arrow missed the main point a few inches.

"Darn it." Kai growled annoyed before turned to the approaching vigorous teen. "Kinomiya. What are you doing here?"

"Man, you're full of sweetheart in greeting, aren't you?" Takao retorted mockingly. "And didn't I tell you to call me Takao?"

"Whatever."

"Grouchy already in the morning?" the bluenette tilted his head a bit.

"That's because I missed my shot because of you." Kai scolded him.

Takao put a hand above his eyes as he gazed forth. He gave a shrug. "Hm, you missed it only a few inches."

"It's bad enough for me." Kai went to pick up a new arrow. "Anyway, you didn't tell why did you come."

Takao's face lit up with excitement. "Oh, I want to inveigle you for a little mooch to the amusement park. They say there are fire jugglers and grifters. But we also can take a walk through the park or the riverside if you want. I know a stand where they sell hot cinnamon-apple juice. I bet you haven't tasted such yet, it's delicious..."

"Sorry, but I can't go." Kai shook his head glumly.

"But why?"

Kai sighed. Somehow he couldn't put up with the sight of seeing Takao's soft smile wilt down with disappointment. Itching with guilt he averted his gaze instead towards the target. "Kino... Takao. Look, I'm busy, can't go with you. I have to train... Besides, my life is more complicated than yours. While you can roam around wherever you want I can't break my Grandfather's orders."

"That still doesn't stop you to sneak out from the house at nights, right?" A vein throbbed on Kai's temple by annoyance because he knew the cocky teen was right. "And why doesn't he want you to go out Kai? Why doesn't he let you go to school and have friends like others? I don't get it why is he secluding you away from the world?"

Questions. Questions. Each of them felt like a hundred ton, massive rock that pressed weight Kai's shoulders. Takao noticed that behind the curtains of Kai's life there was something mysterious and painful which the dual haired didn't want to talk about. He could sense that the way Kai tensed up and as he bored his gaze now rigid at the target board. For a moment, he felt guilty for tearing open wounds in Kai, unwittingly.

The older rose his bow then shot another arrow. This time it hit the exact middle point.

"Great shot Kai!" Takao cheered for him with compliment.

"Hn." a contented smile appeared on his lips.

"I wish I could come as close to be the best as you... Hey, let's make a deal! You give me lessons in archery and in exchange I take you to the park and pay for everything you want. How's that? You said you shouldn't go outside alone but with me you would be safe. Plus, what your grandpa doesn't know that doesn't hurt him."

Kai turned to him with a smug smile, openly showing his pride. "Like I'd ever need your help loafing around... last time I checked I was the one who saved your ass." he took a despising look at the slender teen's form who stood before him bouncingly.

"Hey, you better not underestimate my skills, pal! Just because I'm not a hunk like ones doesn't mean I don't have secret abilities, so you watch out." Takao boasted proudly, crossing his arms.

Kai couldn't hold back a snicker at the teen's buffoonery. "Figures. " then he frowned. "But why don't you ask Rei to teach you?"

Takao suddenly turned pink and scratched his head sheepishly. "Actually I did, but after I accidently shot down his favourite canary bird he refused to give me further lessons. He said it's a fatal danger to give bow in my hand."

Kai sweat-dropped. He had a pretty good image how could that misfortune happen. Though, he hadn't seen Takao shooting an arrow yet, but considering what chaos could bring Takao's clumsiness he didn't need to drill hard the gears in his head.

"Come on now Kai, show me a few tricks." Takao prodded him. "And I doubt that you wanna rot around these stone walls all day. Let us move out!"

Kai bit on his lower lip. There it was again. The enticing feeling of freedom. Damn, how much he wanted to break free from this castle... fly like a bird... freely and wild... deep fire burnt within his system whenever he thought about it. And that's what he felt whenever he sneaked out under favour of the night and wandered around the empty streets like a cat. He knew he'd already broken his grandfather's orders for many times, but damn if he didn't like being a rebel... and now that Takao was pushing him, too, it was unbearably challenging for him.

A gleam sparkled in his crimson eyes.

"Alright... but first, let's see how do you achieve." he smirked wickedly and handed the equipment to the young man.

Takao took them eagerly and Kai stepped aside to let him take his place. He raised the bow then placed in the arrow. He was about to shoot when –

"Wait." Kai stopped him commandingly. "You're doing it all wrong. It's a miracle you haven't wounded yourself yet." he scolded the teen and walked up to him.

Takao was expecting that Kai was going to bonk him on the head or throw nasty comments, but surprisingly none of those happened. However, it came as a shock for him when he felt Kai's firm hands on his hips from behind. His whole body tensed and his eyes went wide.

What the –

"Your state is wrong, you have to straighten yourself better." said Kai professionally as he shamelessly began to fix Takao's position like he was a marionette. "Your legs stand as if they don't know which way to go." he placed a leg between Takao's to nudge them farther apart.

Seemingly, Kai took his captain job very seriously.

Meanwhile Takao was trying very hard to keep his composure. The constant groping and firm grips, which from Kai's part came total natural and professional, in Takao's system awoke different meaning – which drifted him beyond archery. It turned on his fantasy. He was gulping while he was concentrating to keep under control the burning heat that was covering his cheeks.

He mentally sighed with relief when Kai's hands finally withdrew from his legs and lower backside that was aching unnaturally to feel more of them. But things only got worse.

"Don't let your hands shake like that because you will miss the aim."

Suddenly Kai's warm breath brushed his ear and cheek as he leant over Takao's right shoulder. It was now impossible for him to hide his blush. God thanks that Kai didn't notice it because he was still focusing on to adjust his hand.

Takao swallowed and tried to clear his mind... Come on, focus... the aim... my aim is... involuntarily, he glanced at Kai from the corner of his eye... God, he was so beautiful, even with those face-paints... those blazing eyes... his attention wandered to thin, rosy lips and he felt like he could melt into a puddle... oh yeah, that's a perfect aim... SHIT! TAKAO FOCUS!

Aim!... what was it?... oh yeah, the target...

He tore his gaze now forth and watched as Kai put his calloused fingers over his to help him straighten his hold, but almost gave a jolt when he felt something burn on his skin. Kai must have felt it, too, because he snatched his hand away for a moment before placed it back instead on Takao's glove.

"Tighten it." came the hot order.

Takao mentally sweat-dropped. Yeah there is something tightening in his pants. He almost laughed at his own awkward situation when his perverted mind spoke false volumes for him again. As ridiculous as it was he couldn't help but find funny this craziness.

However, his cocky humor dropped instantly when Kai circled his other arm around his back to hold his left elbow higher. A tremor passed through Takao's body.

Okay, this was getting serious now.

"Raise the arrow higher."

Oh yeah, something was definitely raising but it wasa different arrow.

"Good. Now take in the aim."

The aim... Oh the aim... it were the stars and the sky... the endless universe, and the infinite bliss...

"Now shoot!"

...Oh Gods...

For the first time Takao's arrow hit perfectly the board.

Kai nodded in approval. "Not bad. You start getting it." he then looked at the bluenette with mild concern. "Are you feeling okay?" he asked the flushed teen.

"Y-yeah, fine." he stuttered.

Takao felt like his legs could collapse any moment. He didn't know just how much of this lessons he could take. One thing was sure, that day was the hardest for Takao ever.

° ~ x * Ö * x ~ °

Shivering darkness dropped over Livingston City. There was a freezing chill in the air but not even a breath blew. There was silence. Way too silence...

In the heavy air, a deep gong of church clanged in the heart of the city.

It was midnight.

...Then it clanged again...

Suddenly, from behind the hills deep purple clouds were trailing towards the city. As they reached over slowly they threw black blanket over the peaceful sleeping houses, devouring the twinkling stars in the sky, leaving no lights only the shimmering lamps on the streets.

"What a pretty little city." droned a deep, icy voice.

Up in the sky a dark caped man was floating. His arms crossed. His stature was tall and fear-radiating. His long, colourless face barely showed any sign of life that could still consider him being human. Actually, there was barely left anything human in him. Just like his eyes, which gazed dull and endless, as if all of his feelings had died out long time ago... Yet, there was something burning in those depths. Insatiable thirst for blood.

He had travelled for long years in the world but now, finally he had found what he was looking for. He was sure he was close for his aim, and this time he would accomplish his revenge.

"Wherever you're hiding Lightkeeper, I will find you." he snarled with an evil smirk.

"Lord Devon." a voice that sounded like it came from hell, rumbled.

The man turned back his face at the arch-leader demon. The gigantic beast stared at him expectantly with its red, blazing slit eyes. Its long teeth craved to sate its hunger.

"We're waiting for your command." the demon growled.

Soon thousands of red glowing eyes flashed through the purple clouds, and more beastly creatures emerged behind them.

"I want you all to incorporate into the city and wait for my order... Then we attack." Devon said darkly.

"What if they see us?"

The wizard lord's thin lips curved into smirk. "For that, I'll take charge of it." he held out a hand and murmured a course over the city.

"They won't notice a thing tonight... now, go and occupy the city, unawares."

"What about the resisters?"

Devon's smile blazed devilish. "Those who rebel against us will die."

° ~ x * Ö * x ~ °

The Black Forest was forbidden for everyone who dared to step in. Takao didn't even understand where did Max get the idea they should meet there after school. He was a little suspicious because the blonde seemed rather mischievous when he told his plan, like he was up to something hanky-panky. They were supposed to train archery, but in the forest?

When Takao arrived to the border of the dense trees he immediately realised that the rumours were true. An old, dry-rotten wooden sign was set out on the narrow pathway with the order: Forbidden place. Keep out. Of course it was not like Takao would bother with such stupid signs, if his friends went inside, why should he fear?

Getting off from his bike he continued his way on walk on the tumbly dirt road, rolling his bike beside him. Diving deeper in the forest he realised it wasn't that scary at all. He didn't get why were people fidgeting from this place? It looked so friendly and peaceful. The leaves twinkled brightly in the filtering sunshine and the bushes were teeming in all kinds of small fruits. Thanks for the blessing of autumn the various colours of red, yellow, brown, orange and green shades made the forest truly enchanting.

Such beautiful place Takao had never seen before.

Stepping out finally from the crowd of trees he arrived to a big lake with a waterfall streaming down from a steep cliff. On the shore he spotted his two friends.

"Hey guys!" he waved over as he walked towards them.

"Yo, Takao! I was beginning to worry that you got lost or a herd of bunnies attacked you." said Max jokingly.

"Knowing your lame sense of locality you would get lost faster than your comics in your room, and the ants would find you first." the bluenette teased back saucily. Max stuck his tongue out at him. Seemingly, the blonde was on the top of his clownish mood, he was constantly grinning like a cheesy cat who ate the canary. The next moment Takao found out the reason, too. When he turned to Rei he blinked owlish. "What happened to you?"

The nekojin was completely soaked from head to toe. His long bangs stick to his face like icky seaweed. "Ask him." he growled darkly.

Takao looked back at Max who chewed on his lips to hold back his laugh. Then he turned with a frown at Rei, then back at Max. "You did this?" he looked at him suspiciously, trying to puzzle out things.

Max gave a jocose shrug. "Well, he said he wanted to see my power so I showed him."

"But that doesn't mean you have to splash me totally soaked!" Rei fumed indignantly.

"That's what you get for scaring me shit hell."

Rei hissed at him.

"Oh my, a pissed off Pussycat, how scary." Max grinned cheekily.

"Wait-wait, hold on. What kind of power are you talking about?" Takao butt in between them instantly when he had the feeling that he'd missed something.

"Okay, I show you, but you have to promise to keep it a secret." Max wagged a finger sternly at him.

Takao nodded eagerly and watched as Max turned to the water surface. For an unknown alertness he took a few steps back when he saw Rei withdrew swiftly while he worked on to squeeze the water drops out from his waist-long hair.

Max held out his hands above the water and concentrated. Takao didn't know what was going to happen and he almost let go a scream when the next split of second a giant water-tower splashed high up in the air. His eyes went wide with amazement and his jaw dropped. He watched bewildered as Max calmly, expertly, and evidently keeping full control of the situation started making various movements with his hands. The blue liquid-tower swayed before took new form and it transformed to an unicorn which galloped around the lake surface… then it switched form again and the next moment there were two dolphins flipping over each other…

"Wow." Takao gaped.

Then swish… the two dolphins jumped high in the air splashing together, and suddenly there was a giant, moocher snake that swayed its small, slit eyes at Takao…

A snake from water… then it hit Takao… the snake from the bucket of water, and the puddle on the floor which Weylin slipped on! Now he understood it!

"It was you." he blurted out with realisation. "You were the one who saved me when Weylin picked on me."

The water-snake splashed back into the lake and Max lowered his hands. He turned around to flash a sincere smile at Takao, nodding.

"B-but… why didn't you tell me sooner?"

Max scratched his head embarrassed. "I didn't know how would you react. You told us that your father and brother both possess wizard power, but you not. Then when you came up with that ridiculous story with that ancient dragon and wings I feared it might upset you again if you got to know we each possess some kind of power counter to you."

The words were so on Takao's tongue and he was about to spit out the truth right there and then but bit on his lower lip. He had to remind himself the promise he'd made for himself to not involve his friends into danger… But it seemed Max took the wrong conclusion from his pondering expression and looked unsure at Takao.

"Um… are you mad at me?"

The bluenette snapped out from his dozing state and smiled reassuringly at his anxious friend. "No, I'm not. It's alright Max, let's not make a big fuss about it."

"You sure?"

Takao nodded and big relief blew out from Max's chest.

After the atmosphere had settled back to normal peace, and seemingly Rei had also recovered from his water-drama, they prepared the equipment for the practice. Rei packed out the arrows and bows he'd brought while Max and Takao set up the target. At least they could be sure that no one was going to disturb them here and even Rei didn't have to worry that one of his dear pets would fall a prey.

However, not long after they had begun practice when hoofbeat perked up their ears. Who was riding in the forest?

Among the dense bushes a beautiful, black, blood-horse trotted out. Its long, black as ebony mane shone in the sunlight and its rider wasn't far from admiration, either. His noble posture and his dignified facial expression made him appear like a royal dignitary. His fluttering white scarf on his neck he always wore made Takao drool… Gods, he looked so sexy on that horse… for a minute he felt jealous badly, wanting to be in the place of the horse so he would have Kai straddling his waist with those muscular legs while riding on him and – OH for pesky shit if hell Takao! What got into you?!

Takao cleared his dry throat to take control of his wild hormones.

"Hey Kai." he rasped with a lopsided smile as the dual haired rode straight up to them. "I wouldn't expect to meet you of all people in a forest which is furthermore forbidden. Did you get lost?" he bantered the older.

"Hn. Unlike you, Kinomiya, I wouldn't get lost in my forest which I know as clear as my palm." sly smirk curved up on his lips and Takao felt his heart beat faster when vivid crimson eyes glared back at him.

Gods, he would spend all day bickering Kai with no end just to have those eyes peering at him, which melted him inside a puddle mush… it was so turning him on.

"W-wait, what do you mean by your forest?" Max furrowed his eyebrows as he chimed in the conversation. "The forest is everyone's… well, even if it's forbidden."

"To lighten you, the Black Forest has been in possession of the Hiwatari Family for long years, so officially you're intruding in my forest." Kai said arrogantly and narrowed his eyes.

Max gulped.

But of course Takao's mouth was bigger again then his brain, and spoke sooner before thinking. "Now wait a minute! There is no sign that says this forest belongs to anyone so how can we know you're not tricking us?" he pointed a finger at the haughty teen accusingly.

"Should I show you the title-deed? It would definitely shut your cocky trap faster than the gears grinding in your head. Or I could even lock you up for trespass, if I was in the mood." a devilish grin flashed on the stoic male's face as he leant forward on his saddle, glaring challengingly at the pesky teen. He knew he had checkmate.

Takao stared baffled at him, gawking. Would Kai really do that to him, or was he only bluffing? Though, as much he got to know the Ice Prince he wasn't the type of person who made false jokes. But soon his thoughts wandered over again different imaginations where he visualized a bed with rails, and chains, and a various dirty ideas that Kai would do to him… oh he would enjoy having Kai hovering above him as his master… in tight, leather pants… and a lash in his hand while he was writhing under him…

A lucky turn that Rei spoke up beside him to snap him out of his perverted world, before his whole face would explode from heat.

"You want to send us packing?" the raven haired asked matter-of-factly, tough his voice held a hint of plea. He knew the lone teen was the man who was always true to his words, whatever he said, and he was raw and rough. However, Rei was convinced that behind Kai's cold mask there was a sensitive soul with warm heart. The first sign which had proven that was when Takao brought him up to them, and he was sure that Takao's openness could unfold lot of changes in Kai.

Kai darted his eyes on Rei and could see clearly the open confrontation. He had to admit the nekojin had a smart sense. Then he espied the prepared arrows and bows and a wicked idea popped up in his head. "Let's settle this in a match." he proposed in a challenging tone.

Rei followed his gaze with a frown before it dawned in him what was Kai hinting at. A sly grin came over his face; ok, he was going to enjoy this. He'd heard that the young Hiwatari was a top class archer and he was eager to see with his own eyes how good he truly was… and of course he was intending to beat him for good.

"As you wish Kai."

Rei walked back to his own equipment to prepare while Kai jumped down from his horse to unloose his own set from the saddle. Deciding that it was wiser to step aside and put on the role of being a good audience, Max searched a good place for himself wherefrom he could observe the competition. He sat down on the grass and braced his back against a big stone. He frowned when he saw Takao fumbling in his backpack.

"What are you doing?"

"What does it look for you? I'm taking part in the challenge as well." Takao answered determinedly.

"Snap out of it dude." Max shook his head. "Let the big boys have their way with each other. If you butt in, Kai and Rei might roast your ass for breakfast."

"Hah!" Takao flashed a cocky, defiant grin over his shoulder. "If that's what they think then it's about time to show them that even I have something in my pocket, too." with that he took the bow on his shoulder while he whirled an arrow in his fingers like a pro, then strode down to the two males like a proud champion.

Max slapped a hand to his face. Why was Takao such a lunkhead?

Rei exchanged an odd glance with Kai when the blue haired teen walked up to them. "What's up Takao?" he asked curiously.

"I want to take part too." he declared self-confident.

Kai coughed into his fist, which sounded suspiciously like he wanted to hide a snicker. Takao cast him a nasty glare from the corner of his eye.

"Um, Takao?" Rei put a hand friendly on his shoulder. "Look, it's nice that you want to help me out, but I'm doing this alone. Go back to Max okay?"

Takao pushed off the hand hotly. "Who said I wanna help for you. I represent myself as an equal competitor."

Kai snorted now loudly and Takao glared at him with narrow eyes. "What's so funny?"

"It only amuse me how fool and naïve you are to even think that you can have a chance against either of us. Your inflated ego seems to rock sky-high." Kai said mockingly.

"Oh yeah? We will see which one of us will laugh after I mop that smug grin from your face." Takao retorted heatedly, rubbing his nose.

Kai's face suddenly darkened in warning. "Be careful Kinomiya. I will make you eat those words."

"Only in your dreams, pal." oh he was so enjoying this. This strange vibrating rivalry between them was nearly as uplifting for Takao as much it turned him on. Though, he still couldn't figure out what was this invisible enchantment he felt towards the dual haired male. But that fire in those eyes were captivating.

"Fine. But don't come whining to me if I crash your arrows into pieces." Kai snapped coldly.

"Kai, no." Rei put a hand on his shoulder placatingly. "You also know he is not ready for this, don't do it…"

The dual haired shrugged off his hand. "Let go Rei. If he is so thick-headed to take on a challenge then I won't hold back to teach him a lesson." he marched to his spot.

Rei shook his head with a sigh. Takao was enough stubborn to drive anyone mad with his defiant manner, but Kai was downright maniac if Takao pushed his ego. He just hoped none of them would get killed in the big vehemency.

They took place and Max leant over, elbowing on his knees as he waited eagerly who is gonna shot first.

"You can take first." Kai gestured for Takao with false politeness.

"Oh no thanks. I think it's fair for the loser to start."

"Exactly. That's why you get the first shot." Kai nipped back with a stingily smile.

"Aw, aren't you sweet." Takao snarled endearingly. "But I was thinking about you, since the olders go down first anyway."

"And brats are naïve and stupid, that's why they stay retarded."

"But olders are grouchy and act as pushy wet-blankets which results they get wrinkles sooner than we do."

"At least I don't need to hear a bedtime story before asleep so the scary bogeyman won't come out from under my bed."

Rei sweat-dropped. What the heck got into those two? Once they acted like they couldn't separate from each other since their first meeting, then again, they couldn't stop bicker each other mercilessly.

"Okay, I take the first shot." Rei blew a sigh as he decided to put an end to this childish argument.

He took position and shot. The green arrow hit very close to the middle point.

"Good shot Rei!" Max clapped gleefully.

"Hm. It was a warm-up shot." Rei pushed back his locks of hair contentedly.

Then Kai took his turn. His red arrow hit right beside Rei's the across side.

"Whoa yeah! Way the go Kai!" Max cheered again.

"Hn." the dual haired flicked his scarf over his shoulder.

"Hmm, not bad Kai." Rei nodded his head in approval, a lopsided smirk lurking on his lips. "But I think you have to try harder if you want to beat me."

"Who said I won't Kon? I had only begun."

"Oh so does that mean you're keeping your cards in store for the finals?" the raven haired grinned slyly.

"I don't think there will be finals because my next shot will devastate you."

Swish… a third, this time blue, arrow hit on the target and it just hit the point between the other two's.

Kai and Rei goggle-eyed then snapped back their heads at the grinning Takao who stood behind them.

"Heh, I guess the first round is settled." he said goofily. The other two just gaped at him. "What? I had a good teacher." he wriggled his eyebrows.

Kai didn't believe his eyes. This couldn't be true. Takao had taken only one lesson from him, there was no way his lame skills could have developed so rapidly. "How did you do that?" he furrowed his eyebrows suspiciously.

Takao shrugged innocently. "I told you: I had a good teacher." of course this wasn't entirely true and he felt a little guilty for lying his friends, but that's what he had to do. Not long after Kai had given him practice he very soon discovered that he could mix it with his elemental power to use it as help and make it seem like he'd impressed a lot in short time.

"Cool! This is amazing guys! Come on Takao! Get him Rei! Don't give up Kai!"

"Max, just who on earth are you supporting for?!" Rei turned to him flabbergasted.

"A good audience support for every competitor." Max pointed out jovially.

The other three guys sweat-dropped.

"Okay, so let's see if you can repeat your luck, Takao." Kai smirked at him challengingly.

"Oh it's my pleasure Kai."

The two worked up teens exchanged a glare and their battle begun. Soon Rei fell at disadvantage against the two rivals who started up a personal competition between each other, shooting their arrows one after the other like unstoppable robots. It was also like a who-was-the-quicker-game as they tried to shoot off each other's arrows from the way before it hit the target board.

"This is crazy." Rei muttered dejectedly as he flopped down beside Max after he gave up trying to keep up with those two manic, it was no use. "I can't believe they both have smashed me out." he huffed grudgingly.

"I think Kai has unawares managed to thrill up Takao's competitive abilities and now he has to fight for his dominant position." Max said while he watched as they fulfilled the target with red and blue arrows, which started to resemble more like a hedgehog than a target. Then he patted the nekojin's slumped back comfortingly. "Don't worry pal, you're still the ladies man in school."

"That is, if Mr. Storm-Beauty won't plan on taking that title too." he grumbled.

Max chuckled.

After a few hours, when they sky was starting to change colour to orange shade, and the sun began sinking down, the two rivals seemed to let off their steam, too. They were both panting heavily, their clothes drenched with sweat as it stick to their skin. Their legs were trembling visibly as they were near to the edge of dropping off with exhaustion, yet, of course neither of them wanted to give up or admit game over. The target was in a very sleazy shape, actually, there was no more place left on it to shoot. The boys instead kept shooting in half each other's arrows.

Max and Rei waited curiously the point where their friends decided to end this. They didn't dare to butt in because it wouldn't have any effect on them. However, when their last arrow was shot and there was no more of it to continue, Kai and Takao finally collapsed to their knees to catch their breath.

"It was about time you guys end it. The new-design board you created looks very impressive." Rei marked as he looked at the target abstractedly.

"So, who won?" Max asked grinning.

Kai and Takao looked at each other.

"Can we call it a tie?" Takao panted.

"Only this time." Kai gulped down some oxygen. He had never felt so alive before. Finally he could match his strength with a worthy rival and he felt a deep satisfaction inside, which awoke more inspiration in him to train harder from now on.

They broke into a silly grin.

° ~ x * Ö * x ~ °

There were moments when Takao wished time would stop and things would stay the way they were. When everything looked so peaceful and 'settled down' it was hard to believe that demons or dark wizards could ever ruin this world. And that's how he felt as he was scanning the city from above, standing on the top of a high tower.

It was getting late in the evening, yet he didn't feel like he could fall asleep. The cosy darkness and the friendly blowing breeze had inveigled him from his home. He got so used to now flying over the city late at the nights, watching the little houses and the shimmering lights and the red uniformed wizard guards as they were making their routine patrolling up and down on the streets.

Times like these, he hardly could believe that someone wanted to attack this peaceful city…

That was until he perked up a sudden scream…

"It's coming from the west side!" Takao kicked himself in the air and followed the desperate shriek. Someone is in trouble. He ripped through the air fast and swished over houses like blow.

The scream became louder and higher. He scanned around the emptied out streets in the subdued light. Suddenly, he spotted a little girl, age around eight years, running along the street crying. Close behind her a man was chasing after her. From up here, Takao could clearly see the unfolding happening; a few streets off a few wizard guards had also heard the screaming, too, and were now looking around frantically in search of it. But they were still so far, by the time they got there it's gonna be too late. Therefore he had to do something.

He took a deep diving and flew speed-light downwards. The cold air stung painfully his cheeks and his eyes were also intently resisting to stay open. He concentrated hard and narrowed his eyes to not miss his aim… In the last split of second, when the chaser had caught up to the little girl, Takao grabbed her in his arms and sprung in the sky, away from the man's grip. He didn't stop or looked back till he found a safer place. He landed on the roof of an old warehouse and put down her feet the child who was wriggling desperately in his arms.

"Ah! Ah! Let me go! Let me go!" she shrieked fearfully while she was hitting Takao constantly with her plush bunny.

Takao took a step back to give her space but did not let her go, he held her firmly by her arms because he feared the child might fell from the roof if she suddenly took off running in panic. He crouched down in eye-level to her and said calmly. "I'm not gonna hurt you. You're in safe now."

"But you are a monster! A monster!" she wriggled in his hold.

"No I'm not. I'm human, just like you."

The girl stopped struggling and locked her teary eyes into Takao's. In the shine of Moon Takao could see the wild red hair and her black, almond eyes that looked somehow so familiar to him, but he didn't know why.

"Then what are you?" stuttered the girl, hiccoughing. "You look like those who eat up people' soul. I heard about them."

Takao realised it must be his blue wings and his mask that scared the poor thing, and he couldn't blame her. In a child's eye it must be really frightening in the darkness. "I'm not a demon or any of those evil creatures." he said convincingly. "I'm a Guardian… well, sort of like that."

The girl puzzled her eyebrows, seemingly she tried to put things together in her small head. "Then why do you wear a mask?" she tilted her head.

"It helps me hide my real identity." Takao winked, smiling.

Her black eyes suddenly grew wide in wonder and sparkled. "Are you my guardian angel?"

Takao laughed and scratched his head abashed. What could he say to a child? "I guess… I saved you after all, didn't I?"

The little girl's lips curved into a smile and cuddled her dear plush close to her blushing face. "I always wished to have a guardian angel who protects me… though, my big brother is like one, too."

"Well, then it makes two of us now. What's your name?"

"Sophie." chirped the girl.

"Well then Sophie, I'm glad to meet you. Why are you wandering around late in the night all by yourself?"

"I went to look for my big brother. He is out helping for Papa's job and I wanted to search him."

Takao shook his head. "It's not good for a little child wandering alone in the darkness. Come on, I'll take you home. Your parents are probably very worried for you."

Takao straightened up and just at the moment he froze. With one high jump the man who had chased Sophie before landed on the roof swiftly. The blue haired teen didn't have time to even blink when he felt a hard kick on his stomach and was sent flying back to the ground. Sophie shrieked in fright.

Takao coughed up some saliva, feeling like a cannonball had hit his guts. Clutching a hand on his stomach he managed to sit up with a groan. What the hell was that?... And how did he do that? He looked at the man's face and his breath hitched. He paled. The man's eyes were blazing red and his torso hunched forward while long orotund voice left this mouth.

Takao's eyes went wide and his heart beat painfully in his chest… No, this can't be… But the horror had slowly unfolded right in front of his eyes like a nightmare… The man's body became supple, his face stretched and as he started growing he lost its human outlook. The hands and legs lengthened to long claws, the face transformed to monstrous and sharp teeth flashed out from its wide mouth. The clothes it was wearing in its human form fell torn on the ground. Its whole body was covered by black furry. What made the giant demon more gruesome was its long, thick tail that grew out from its scaled spine.

Takao stared directly into the pair of red eyes and his brain went numb for a moment… he could hear the screams and cries in his head… people running all over in panic… his old town burning in flames… and his mother's last cry before she died…

He didn't recognize right away when the demon attacked him but felt when another punch hit his chest – that made him snap out it hard. Sophie screamed up again when she saw the monster smashed Takao through a stone wall. The demon now turned to the girl, who clutched at her plush bunny trembling, and made its way up to her. Tears brimmed her eyes as the monster hovered above her but she was too scared to run off.

The demon reached out his claws at her.

"DON'T YOU DARE TO TOUCH HER!" rage built in stormy eyes, and Takao threw himself with full force at the demon. It was the most insane thing he did but all his fear had disappeared at the moment he saw the tears in Sophie's eyes. No way he was going to let that monster lay even the tip of its claws on her!

He stick on the demon's back madly while he was hitting it with so much strength he could muster. The demon bellowed wrathfully and the next moment Takao felt himself shoved back roughly. Blood spilled out from his mouth and when he darted his eyes back on the demon's back he saw two, large bat-wings emerge. This was not good. He stared horrified.

The demon suddenly grabbed Takao by his throat and rose him up from the ground. The teen choked under the tightening grip and in rapid seconds the lack of oxygen became fearfully desperate. His vision started blurring. The demon growled beastly and narrowed its slit eyes even more. Takao clutched helplessly on the killing claws which slowly sank into his flesh. Then the demon tossed him forcefully in the depth – which earnt a painful scream from Takao when his back smashed hard against the cold asphalt of the street. His whole upper body throbbed by the ripping pain he felt. It was a wonder he was still in one piece – obviously, it was thanks to Dragoon's power he possessed, thought even that did not made him invulnerable.

He didn't get the chance to scramble back to his feet when a loud thud hit his ear. The demon flopped down in front of him and swished his claws right at him. Takao barely managed to avoid the busting hit by rolling off, which left a deep dent on the asphalt. The demon raised his fist in the air again and Takao tried to crawl backwards.

"No! Don't hurt him!"

Sophie appeared from behind, who had managed to climb down somehow from the warehouse, and was running now straight towards them.

"Sophie no! Don't come here!" Takao yelled at her.

The demon instantly took its opportunity. It swung its tail and the next moment Sophie was wriggling in the air, coiled in the tail.

"No you won't you goddam beast!" Takao howled, jumping to his feet.

But his rage blinded him as he focused all his energy on the trapped kid, not noticing the danger coming from the side. The demon attacked and this time its claw stabbed on Takao's left shoulder and he lurched back against the cold wall. He saw stars in agony. "Agh.." he groaned.

The demon gave a blasting howl before spread its wings and shot thorns at him. Takao put his arms instinctively before himself in defence…. Sophie's high shriek shook the air. However, when no pain came Takao blinked his eyes open curiously and stared shocked. The black thorns were all bored into his wings that protected him as a shield. At the same time, several blue feathers were stabbing on the demon's body, who froze in its place. The then feathers suddenly glowed blue and a last howl left the beastly creature's mouth before it turned to dust.

Sophie flopped back safely on the ground. Takao was still staring dumbfounded what had just happened. This was amazing.

However, the next moment sound of running footsteps and shouting were approaching.

"This way!"

"Come on men!"

Takao quickly retracted in the corner of a dark alley and watched the unfolding scene. Bright flash of lamplight popped up on the street followed by a group of wizard guards and a woman.

"Sophie!"

"Mommy!"

The little girl ran up to her mother's arms who clasped her tightly. Takao's eyes went glassy as emotions rushed him. He was holding a hand on his injured shoulder which let out blood from the open flesh and for a while he just watched as the group rounded the happy-mother-and-child's cosy moment, wondering and asking what had happened.

The wound, however, soon started throbbing painfully and Takao decided it was time for him to sneak off in the darkness, unspotted, before exhaustion took over him completely. Arriving back home he was happy when he saw the little lamps lighting along the pathway from the garden up to his house. Thinking back that he was only within an inch of death that he might never got to see the dojo again, and Gramps. He limped up to his room silently then sat down on his bed. Taking off his shirt carefully he examined the nasty wound closer. He knew that demons' claws were poisonous and if the wound would infect his body could fall into drastic illness.

How was he going to hide this from his Grandpa's eyes? He was anxious that someone would notice it. He sneaked down to take some from Gramps' medicinal herbs, then walked back to his room, bandaged his shoulder, and laid down under the covers. He prayed that tomorrow everything would be fine again. His head felt queasy by the beginning of headache and even though his whole body hurt, tiredness was stronger and soon his eyes dropped shut. He fell asleep with a building cold fever.

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"You fool! I did tell you to not reveal yourselves! If they discover our presence they gonna blow us down before time and I won't find the Lightkeeper!" Devon rampaged.

"Take my apologise, my Lord." spoke the arch-leader demon. "My armies are hungry for human soul. It's very hard for them to hold back, especially if it's something as pure as an innocent child. But I promise it won't happen again."

"You better do it. Or my investigation was useless." the dark wizard glared menacingly.

"What about this Guardian boy? He can bring trouble for us. Shall we kill him?"

"No, not yet." Devon waved off, pondering. Then a devilish smirk plastered over his face. "I guess he can be still useful for us, in some way. Let's keep an eye on him, the Lightkeeper will turn up soon."

Will be continued…

I hope you all enjoyed it. I'm waiting eagerly your opinion about this one because lot of things happened, even though many things still stand behind the mystery curtains. *winks* I'm also sad I had to make Tyson hurt and now I'm gonna leave him suffering for a while but don't worry, in the next one you'll get to know what comes. Now let's jump to something else…

I must announce for you a less good news… I'm gonna take a little break from this story, but only for a short period. The reason is I want to create a nice TyKa story for Christmas for you all, plus I'll be busy in the next few weeks, so I apologise and ask your patience. I can promise I'll return to this story, and maybe if I manage to have enough time for it, you'll get another chapter in December, but I can't guarantee that.

Thank you that you were here reading and I look forward to have you back in the next chapter when it comes. Bye-bye! :)