Even in the early afternoon with tourists plaguing its streets the city of Paris was still a place of wonder and great beauty as it lay beneath the midday sun. Walking along one of its less crowed streets a young couple could be found enjoying the sights around them, each content with the others company.

"Come on Rei; please tell me where we're going? You've been secretive all morning."

Smirking slightly at his companions plea's Rei was determined to keep Sazuka guessing as she once again questioned him about their destination. Having been granted the day off from all their training Rei had made it his first priority to spend the day with his grey eyed girlfriend; not letting anything stand in his way of spending sometime alone with her for the first time in days. Having spent the morning touring the vast city, which was made a lot easier considering Sazuka knew all the sights from previous visits, both teens had enjoyed the time alone briefly forgetting any worries they had. Briefly caught up in his thoughts Rei was brought out of his wonderings by the presence before him, coming to a halt Rei was caught by the mischievous smile Sazuka was giving him.

"I'm not telling you, you'll just have to wait."

"But Rei I've been patient all morning, please tell me where we're going."

Suppressing the shudder which ran through him at the seductive tome present in Sazuka's voice Rei was thankful for the stubborn streak he had otherwise he would have given in to her long before now. Resting his hands upon the slim waist before him Rei brought Sazuka's unresisting body towards him, giving his own mischievous grin as he noticed the questioning look in her eyes.

"No."

Even as his simple reply faded into the air Rei caught the pouting lips before him with his own, once again intoxicated by the taste which was uniquely hers a mixture of vanilla and something that was just her. Seeking entrance into that which was barred from him Rei couldn't contain the growl which echoed low in his throat as Sazuka delivered him a playful nip before granting his request. Only when the need for oxygen came upon them did they break apart, each a little more flustered than before.

"You can be real stubborn sometimes you know that, but that's what I like about you."

"And here I was thinking you only wanted me for my looks."

Laughing at the playful hit Sazuka gave him Rei released his hold on her before gathering her hand in his as he once again lead the way to their destination.

Giving Rei the benefit of the doubt Sazuka allowed him to lead her along as they made their way along the streets of Paris. Beginning to wonder just where it was that Rei was taking her Sazuka's curiosity only grew as he took her down a side street which lead to the back entrance of a restaurant. About to question Rei's actions Sazuka held her tongue as Rei greeted the Chinese man who had just exited the restaurant.

"Long time no see Uncle."

"I don't believe it, if it isn't Rei."

Seeing his Uncle recover from his initial surprise Rei was more than happy to accept the welcoming embrace from the Uncle he hadn't seen in years and the only blood relative he had. Steeping back from his Uncle it took a moment for him to realize that his Uncle was looking questioningly towards Sazuka's silent form.

"And who is this young lady?"

"Uncle I'd like you to meet my girlfriend Sazuka, Sazuka this is my Uncle."

Giving the girl in question an encouraging smile Rei held his hand out to the suddenly shy girl behind him, accepting his offered hand Rei patiently waited for Sazuka to stand beside him before once again looking to his Uncle. Feeling the gaze upon her Sazuka was glad of Rei's reassuring presence as a sudden shyness overcame her upon standing before Rei's Uncle.

"Well now isn't this a surprise, a pleasant one but still a surprise."

Seeing the smile Rei's Uncle gave her Sazuka felt some of the shyness she was feeling begin to reside as she accepted his hand in greeting. Having a moment to look towards her boyfriend Sazuka's attention was soon diverted to the restaurant's entrance as Rei's Uncle called to the people inside. Caught up in the introductions Sazuka could understand why Rei was fond of these people, they were welcoming and treated Rei just like family. Not accepting no for any answer Rei's Uncle herded the two teens inside, curious about what his nephew had been up to since he'd last seen him.

feeling totally at ease amongst the people around him Rei was glad to see that Sazuka was enjoying herself as well, wanting to introduce Sazuka to his Uncle ever since he'd learnt they were going to Paris he was glad to see them getting along. Excusing himself from the table Rei helped his Uncle to clear the plates, following him into the kitchen Rei paused for a moment as he heard Sazuka's laughter fill the air. Looking back to where she sat Rei realized just how lucky he was; despite the numerous people he'd known Rei had never felt so connected to someone. Sensing a gaze upon herself Rei couldn't prevent his smile as Sazuka looked towards him; smiling back Sazuka turned back to her companions as Rei disappeared.

Unable to keep the smile off his face Rei couldn't say he was surprised that his Uncle noticed placing the plate he held away Rei turned to face his Uncle as he heard him speak.

"You've found yourself a good girl there Rei, I'm glad she makes you happy."

"I'm glad you approve Uncle, I don't know what I would have done if you didn't."

"Surely I'm not that bad, I'd like to think of myself as being a bit more accepting than those elders of yours."

Joining in with his nephew's laughter Chen Shu found himself looking in question towards his nephew as he noticed the uneasy air which settled it's self around him.

"Rei?"

Looking upwards Rei knew his Uncle was concerned about him; not wanting him to worry Rei pondered whether or not to tell him about his troubles. Realizing his Uncle was the only person he could turn to and also understand Rei decided to risk it.

"You know about my father and what he....and I am."

"Of course, but why are asking me that?"

"Do you remember what happened when my parents got together?"

"How can I forget, they were quite the pair caused quite a stir amongst the elders."

Chuckling to himself at the memory of his sister and brother-in-law Shu quickly sobered up as he noticed the brief look of panic fill Rei's eyes.

"Rei what exactly is going on?"

"Well....I....I think I've found the one I'm suppose to be bonded with."

You don't mean, Rei are you sure?"

"I'm not completely sure; I've never witnessed a bonding before it's just...."

"Yes."

"I've already marked her."

Taking in what his nephew had told him Shu gave the information he had received some thought, wondering how he could best advice the troubled teen. Remembering all that his sister had gone through Shu realized that although the two were young what Rei had put forward could be true, the two could be bonded.

"And does Sazuka know any of this?"

"No; I'm afraid of telling her, it's not exactly an easy thing to tell someone."

"I can understand what you're saying Rei and I'll admit trying to explain it to someone from outside your village is hard but in the end it needs to be done. Sazuka deserves the truth she needs to know exactly what she'll be getting into if she accepts; it's only fair that she knows all the facts before making a decision."

Listening to his Uncle Rei knew that despite his concerns what his Uncle had told him was right, if his instincts were right then it was only fair to tell Sazuka the truth. Ever since the incident on the train Rei could sense Sazuka's concern for him, realizing that something was bothering him Sazuka had done nothing more than offer her support. Never once had she pressured him; coming to a decision Rei knew what he had to do, sorting out his few scattered thoughts Rei cast his doubts aside and once again became the confident individual he was.

"You're right Uncle; she needs to know it's only right."

Watching the decisive gleam enter his nephew's eyes Shu was suddenly reminded of Rei's father as looked upon the teen before him, although he might have inherited his mother's looks he took after his father in character. Although Rei's parents were no longer with them Shu was sure that they would be proud of their son; as he himself could feel nothing but pride towards his nephew. Offering his support Shu gave Rei an encouraging smile before following his nephew back out to the others, hoping that things would turn out all right for him.

Listening to the people around her Sazuka couldn't help but join in their laughter, recovering from her recent burst of laughter Sazuka was startled by the sudden sense of unease and nervous feelings which overcame her. Not wanting to worry the others Sazuka kept a smile on her face as she wondered what was happening; concentrating on the feelings she felt Sazuka couldn't explain what it was but something was telling her that it was Rei she was sensing. Unable to understand why she would be sensing Rei's feelings Sazuka felt her concern for him grow. Casting glances towards the kitchen door Sazuka felt her concern change to questioning as Rei's unease changed to confidence. Hearing the return of Rei and his Uncle Sazuka decided to brush the incident aside as she saw Rei's beaming smile, placing it down to an over active imagination Sazuka welcomed Rei's gentle squeeze to her hand.

Taking his seat beside Sazuka Rei had no sooner taken the time to relax when a picture he hadn't previously noticed caught his attention. Hardly believing what he was seeing Rei knew he had to ask who the French teen was. "Hey Uncle who's that?"

"Who? Oh that's Oliver, he's the French Beyblade Champion and one of Paris's best chefs."

Surprised to hear who the French teen was Rei kept his composure as the identity of their mystery blader was revealed; no wonder he'd had such a superior attitude considering he was the country's champion. Taking a quick glance towards Oliver's picture Rei made a mental note to tell the others before turning to his girlfriend, noticing the questioning look in Sazuka's eyes Rei gave her a reassuring smile. Promising to explain everything later both Rei and Sazuka rejoined the others, once again taking part in the laughter around them.

Giving a stretch as he returned to the warm sunlight outside Rei couldn't prevent his smile as he felt a presence place its self at his side. Looking towards his grey eyes companion Rei found himself enchanted by the carefree smile present on Sazuka's face. Coming to terms with the thoughts that been troubling him for the past few days Rei felt truly relaxed, content to be with his raven haired companion.

Relishing in the sun's warm Sazuka felt content as she exited the restaurant, having enjoyed the afternoon with Rei's Uncle both teens had promised to visit before they left Paris. Glancing towards her boyfriend Sazuka was glad to see him so content, although happy enough Sazuka could see that something had been bothering him for some time. However, ever since his meeting with his Uncle Rei had once again been his old self no longer weighted down by his thoughts. Joining Rei's side Sazuka found herself smiling back at the taller teen as she saw the smile he wore. Always bewitched by the unusual color of Rei's eyes Sazuka couldn't fail to notice the spark in his amber eyes. Shifting herself around until she was facing her companion Sazuka stepped into his frame, wrapping her arms around his waist, content to be held as he hugged her back.

Resting his head upon Sazuka's hair Rei knew he had never felt so content with someone, the realization that she could be the one began to settle its self more firmly in his mind. However, before be could pursue the issue any further both teens found their attention caught by the passing comments of two boys. No sooner had they heard it were both Rei and Sazuka looking knowingly at each other, both having no doubts that Tyson was the one challenging Oliver. Knowing all to well Tyson's nature both teens quickly headed to where the battle was taking place, each hoping that their friend hadn't bitten off more than he could chew.

From his position beside the bey dish Oliver looked down towards Tyson and his friends, watching them discuss the recent battle Oliver was still finding it hard to believe that the battle had ended in a draw. Realizing his initial assumptions regarding Tyson had been wrong Oliver could only give him the respect he deserved; already giving Tyson his congratulations Oliver was about to leave when a familiar figure caught his eye. Thinking he was seeing things Oliver was surprised to see that the one before him was none other than an old friend, curious to know about their involvement with the Bladebreakers Oliver decided to investigate the matter.

"Sazuka; mon ami est ce vous?"

Hearing everyone go silent at Oliver's words Sazuka was at first puzzled by the statement made, turning around to the one who had spoken Sazuka's puzzlement turned to surprise as she saw who was before her.

"Oliver."

"So it is you, mon ami why did you not tell me you were returning to Paris?"

"It was a last minute decision, and if I remember correctly you were never an easy person to find."

Watching Oliver laugh as Sazuka's comment Rei could see that he wasn't the only one who was confused, looking towards his team mates Rei could see that they too were curious about how the two teens knew each other. Turning his attention back towards the two before him Rei couldn't help but feel a little wary about them as he saw how open they were with each other. However, before anyone could question the two Oliver's voice carried to them all as he addressed them.

"You must join for me for dinner tonight; in fact I insist that you all of you join me this evening."

"Thank you for the offer but I don't....."

"Of course we accept, don't want to be rude now."

Hardly surprised to hear that Tyson was the one accepting Sazuka couldn't help but grin at his eagerness, never had she met someone who loved food so much. Realizing there was no getting out of it now that Tyson was expecting a free meal the remaining Bladebreakers could only voice their agreement, having no idea that a meal wasn't the only thing they'd get.

Watching the conversions going on around him Rei found he could only half heartily join in the laughter around him; vaguely listening to Kenny's words Rei's attention was solely fixed on those opposite him. Catching up on lost time both Oliver and Sazuka had spend the evening talking amongst themselves, sparing a moment here and there to answer any questions directed at them. Having learnt that the two had known each other for some time Rei couldn't blame them for wanting to catch up on old times. However, despite the facts Rei couldn't help the jealously which reigned in him as he watched Oliver and Sazuka interact with each other. Realizing that Kenny was seeking his attention Rei turned towards his friend apologizing for not listening as Kenny repeated what he'd said.

Letting Kenny have his say Rei returned his attention to the seat opposite only to clench his hands tightly together as he watched the French teen ask for Sazuka's company in a dance. Even as Oliver lead Sazuka to those all ready dancing to the gracefully music neither teen were aware of the amber eyes which had narrowed dangerously as they watched the two dance. However, watching as Oliver lightly kissed Sazuka's hand as their dance ended Rei felt his control break; unable to watch as someone fawned over his intended mate.

Despites her smiles Sazuka was thankful when the music ended, although she was happy to meet her old friend feelings that weren't her own had consumed her since Oliver had asked her to dance. Feelings of such rage and anger had suddenly under laid her own emotions, unsure of what was happening at first Sazuka suddenly realized that such feelings were coming from Rei. Unable to understand what was happening Sazuka knew that she had to calm the Chinese youth down however, before she could act on her thoughts Sazuka could only watch in shock at the following events.

Remaining silent through out most of the night Kai had kept his gaze roaming over those around him; upon hearing that the others wouldn't be leaving Paris that day Kai had decided to rejoin his team mates. Watching the proceedings around him Kai found himself glancing from Sazuka to Rei, despites what people thought the garnet eyed teen was very observant about things around him. Keeping his gaze on Rei Kai wasn't fooled by the controlled calm Rei was showing, although no one else saw Kai could see the gleam in Rei's eyes. Despites outward appearances Kai had slowly but surely given in to Rei's attempts at friendship, developing a firm friendship with each other both teens had come to trust each other like brothers. Concerned about his friends' wellbeing Kai knew a storm was coming and wasn't surprised to see Rei's anger take over however, the volume of his anger did.

Shooting upwards Rei was vaguely aware of the pain which shot up his arms as his hands slammed against the table, silence settling amongst his friends as they cast concerned looks towards him. Turning a predatory look towards the French teen opposite him Rei barely contained the growl he felt wishing to make its presence know. Feeling his natural instincts fighting to take over it was unfortunate that his anger was given direction.

"Calm down Rei."

Reacting before he could think Rei's anger cooled a little as he saw who he had lashed out at; with his anger ruling him Rei had simply reacted as he felt the hand which settled on his shoulder. Swinging round Rei threw the hand off himself before shoving the owner aside, reality coming back to him as the clatter of glass reached him as the one he hit out at collided with the table. Looking into garnet eyes Rei was shocked to see that Kai had been the one he'd lashed out at, looking into the surprised looks of his friends Rei spared a quick apology before hurrying out of the restaurant. Taking a moment to process what had just happened Sazuka was finding it hard to believe what had just happened. Knowing she couldn't let Rei go while he was in his current state Sazuka quickly excused herself before hurrying after Rei. Rushing out into the night air Sazuka looked wildly around for the one she was looking fro, spotting a familiar figure making their way down the street Sazuka quickly made after him.

Walking along the street of Paris Rei was unaware of the drizzle as he wandered through the night, with his anger no longer ruling him Rei tried to make some sense of his chaotic thoughts. Caught up in his thoughts Rei didn't hear the voice calling him, only when a hand caught him on the arm did he come back to reality.

"Rei, what's going on? What happened back there?"

Recognizing the voice Rei quickly tensed as he realized who had halted him, knowing that this confrontation would happen eventually he wasn't sure if he could deal with it right now. Giving a sigh Rei tried twice before he found his voice, doing his best to control his emotions.

"It doesn't matter. Go back to the others they'll get worried if you don't."

"I'm not going anywhere not until you tell me what's wrong."

Hearing the concern present in Sazuka's voice Rei could help the first signs of guilt that began settling themselves in his mind. Realizing he had let his anger rule him Rei regretted his previous actions, ashamed that he'd let his natural instincts take such control of him.

"Rei I know something's wrong I could feel it; you were so angry. I want to help but I don't know how."

Hearing Sazuka's words Rei couldn't believe what he was hearing, even though he'd had his suspicions this newest information confirmed them. Realizing it was time to tell Sazuka the truth Rei gathered his courage together before turning to face her. Silently taking her hand Rei decided it was better he explained somewhere else as he became aware of the rain upon them. Knowing Sazuka wouldn't question him Rei lead the way as they once again set off down the street.

Feeling the warmth radiating from the cup he held Rei was imaging every outcome as he patiently waited for Sazuka to return; having returned to the hotel they were staying at Rei had decided to wait in the café while Sazuka went to change out of her wet clothes. With only one or two people situated around the café Rei decided it was the best place to tell Sazuka the truth. Looking outside Rei watched the many droplets work their way down the glass, every now and again joining together to form a river of water. Sensing a familiar presence Rei diverted his attention from the outside world to the one beside him.

Looking up into grey eyes Rei gave a slight smile to the one beside him before Sazuka took the seat opposite him. Looking down into the swirling liquid before him Rei took a calming breath before beginning his explanation.

"I know its going to sound a bit far-fetched what I'm about to tell you but you have to believe me."

"All right, I'm listening."

"Do you know what a neko-jin?"

Surprised by the question Sazuka took a moment to consider what Rei had asked her, thinking the question over Sazuka gave her reply.

"I've heard of them, my grandmother use to tell me stories about them; about those with feline blood."

"What if I was to say they weren't just stories and that neko-jin do exist."

Awaiting Sazuka's reaction Rei dreaded what she would do as he finished his sentence; knowing only to well what some people thought of his kind Rei didn't want Sazuka to have the same attitude. Fearing the silence Rei couldn't prevent the jump he gave as Sazuka took his hand in hers, looking cautiously upwards Rei was greeted with an understanding smile.

"I don't care how different you are and to be honest I did have my suspicions about you, the eyes and teeth kind of gave it away. It doesn't matter to me what you are it doesn't change who you are, and it doesn't change how I feel about you."

Glad to see Rei calm down a little at her reply Sazuka could see that despite her hopes they was still something else which bothered the young Tiger. Unable to sit by and see him so troubled Sazuka was determined to get to the bottom of the matter which bothered him so much.

"But there's more to it than that isn't there?"

"Yes. I should have told you this before but I didn't know now....that and well I was afraid to tell you."

"Amongst my kind we have many beliefs and traditions; one of those is that every neko had a soulmate, the one person who fills that other part of them. Some can go their whole lives and never find them, but there are those that do. In most cases both soulmates are neko-jin but sometimes we find human partners; my father was one."

"I don't understand. Why are you telling me this?"

"Because I think....no I don't think, I know. Sazuka you are my soulmate, that's the reason why I bite you, the mark you have it shows other neko-jin that you are bonding with someone."

Finishing his reply Rei waited with baited breath for Sazuka's reply, looking into grey eyes Rei wasn't surprised to see a whirlwind of emotions dancing within their depths. Taking not if the uncertainty and confusion which radiated from the one opposite Rei wasn't expecting a reply straight away. Neither though he had guesses what would happen once he told her Rei's heart fell as he watched Sazuka raise from her sear.

"I don't know....I need sometime to figure this out."

Nodding his understanding Rei remained silent as he watched Sazuka walk away, not needing the link between them to sense her confusion. Feeling his heart ache as he watched her walk away Rei could only sit back and await her decision as he once again turned his gaze to the swirling liquid below.