REVIEWS CHAPTER FOUR
Star: Wow, that was direct.~-^. I really appreciate your ideas. Thanx but the thing is.it's becoming quite complicated. You will partly notice this chapter. But in general line it will be like that.
Kais Hot Babe: I'm so sorry but it seems I'm addicted to cliffies. Thanx, I'm glad you like it and I'll try to update sooner.
Strange person: You're the only one who answered my question. I'm so grateful!! My friend (Kana is hopelessly in love with the poor guy so it will be as your wish. And by the way, I went nowhere. I just needed some time. Difficult Tala grumble
The Fire-breathing-ferret: This is what happens. for the rest you'll have to wait.
L@DyFiCtIoN: Nice name! yes it was only a dream but some dreams do come true //grins evilly// gomen the update is so late.
Yoink Daydurfurits: Kai isn't going back soon, gomen. Rei will try to help him but.
Ginger Ninja: //blushes// you give me too much honour. Thanx
Krixel: Eh Kai went. You'll read in a minute. Thank you but I'm not that good. (and too say I was actually very happy when I wrote the dream thingy)
Dragonblade: yep poor Kai and there's more to come.
Devilburns: As you wish
SquirrelOfShadows: Well eh, I know you feel bad for them, but I'm not finished with them, each day I find new torments for them. Hope you'll like the next chapter too.
Lhune : I hope you all enjoyed the 4th chapter because here is the fifth.
Kana: That wasn't nice what you did to Kai!
Lhune: I could have done worse //grins evilly//
Kana: //scowls//
Lhune: I worked very hard for all of ya because after I typed the Fourth chapter, I had to go to the hospital. @_@ So I hope there weren't too many spelling mistakes in it because I hadn't got the time to check them.
Kai: As long as I'm not a bladder, it's fine by me.
Kana: Still not over that Kai? Well don't worry, this time you'll be a blader.
Kai: WHAT!!!!!
Kana: Just kiddin' //smiles sheepishly//
Lhune: As I said, I am in the hospital so I should have some time to write the next chapter. BUT I'm afraid I spend too much time drawing.
Kai and Rei: Me? //look surprised at each other//
Lhune: Nay, just elves, I have a lot of drawings from you though. I have a captain Jack/Kai and you two cuddling.
Rei and Kai: You have? //blush//
Kana: Yep she has.
Lhune: Anyway, everybody must read Fatali!!! Beautiful descriptions and a hm naughty Rei (no lemon .yet)
Kana: //glances at the story// Whaa! That is one long story
Lhune: Yes, isn't that just great? Anyway, gotta start writing. enjoy! =^-^=
Freezing Fire
By Lhune and Kana
Disclaimer: own nothing as you all know. wait I do own the plot.I hope
Chapter five
*You were hurt to understand. The strength of tears, someday.Certainly*
"Aah, my head hurts!"
"Chief, you're finally awake!" Takao smiled relieved.
"You slept for ages." Max added teasingly.
"What happened?" Kenny inquired, clutching his head while he climbed out the bed.
"Well eh. you fainted when you saw Kai's bloody chest." Takao said cautiously.
Kenny's eyes widened as he remembered the horrible sight of is captain. Panic flowed through him again and caused to pale him once more.
"Eh chief, you're not gonna faint again, are you?" Max asked concerned while studying the boy closely.
"No I'm not, where is Dizzy? I have to go and help Rei!" He was about to grab his precious laptop when he was pushed down on the bed by Takao.
"Oh no, Rei ordered us to stay out of their room till he said we could enter." Takao said seriously. "Man, Rei can be scary when he's in charge! I'm sure he followed some lessons with our Ice Captain." He added with mirth in his eyes.
The word Ice Captain didn't hold the usual taunt, instead it was spoken rather affectionately. Max gazed a bit hurt at his friend but when he noticed Takao was watching him, he was back to his usual hyper-happy self.
BLAM
The three teens were shocked as the door slammed open and a very distressed Rei stormed in.
"Kai is gone!" he said bewildered.
"WHAT?!" The others exclaimed, eyes popping out of their sockets. Rei began to pace the room nervously.
"He, he was having a nightmare, or at least that's what I think, and I tried to wake him but but. but I don't know what happened. I really don't but he ran off. I tried to follow him but the street was empty. He's violently ill and he hasn't healed yet!! He's outside in this weather! And I-"
Takao finally managed to grab Rei's shoulders and thus forcing him to stand still.
"Calm down, Sit down." He said in an authoritative tone. He took the raven- haired blader's arm and put him in an overstuffed chair. "Now tell us what happened, but slower this time." Takao asked worried.
Rei held his head in his hands, trembling like a leaf.
"It's my fault, I shouldn't have tried to wake him." Rei stuttered helplessly.
"REI! Snap out of it! It isn't your fault! Understood?" Takao said strict.
Rei nodded miserably.
"So he was having a nightmare, what happened next?" Takao asked calm.
"He looked very pained so I tried to wake him." Rei told in a much calmer voice now.
Max gazed at the blue haired boy in front of him. He had never seen Takao so mature before and he decided he rather liked it. It was a side of the Japanese boy they didn't saw often. He broke out of his trance when Rei finished his story.
"Don't worry Rei; we will help you to find Kai." Takao reassured, grabbing a warm, fur lined coat. "Now where did that sourpuss run off to?" He muttered gruffly as an after thought. He reached for the door.
Following his example, the others too grabbed their coat and rushed after Takao. They skidded to a halt when Takao suddenly stopped in front of the door. Max, who was right behind him, didn't notice in time and bumped straight into the blader. Feeling Takao's body warmth through the many layers of clothing, he felt a blush cover his face. Hurriedly he jumped away from Takao.
"I'm sorry." He said softly while he fidgeted with the fur of his coat.
Takao studied the flushed teen intently.
"Ne Maxie," he laid his hand on his friend's shoulder. He felt a bit hurt when the blonde cringed under his touch. "You aren't becoming ill too? Maybe it is better if you get back in bed. We'll look for Kai." He said concerned.
Max misunderstood Takao's intentions and thought the blue-haired youth wanted to get rid of him. 'No Takao would never do such a thing!' he berated himself.
"No" he stammered "I will be fine. But why did you stop so suddenly?" He quickly changed the subject.
Takao threw him one last concerned look but answered the question anyway.
"I understand you're concerned about Kai, Rei. But you've never lost your cool like that." Takao eyed Rei questioningly. "Since when is Kai SO important to you?"
Rei started to blush, though he didn't see the reason.
"Isn't that normal? He's our captain, we need him! Besides remember, he is ILL and BEATEN UP!" Rei said exasperated.
Takao bowed hid head in defeat.
"You're right, gomen." He murmured ashamed that he hadn't thought of that.
Max on the other hand, studied Rei with an odd look. Rei shifted uncomfortably under the blonde's gaze.
"And the truth Rei?" his soft voice made all turn around to watch the duo. Max's eyes never left the frozen form of the Chinese blader.
~*~
'The truth? That was the truth right? I mean, I can't possibly care for that cold bastard, let alone love him. He's cold he's arrogant, he makes us train until we drop dead. True he has a gorgeous body, those muscles beneath that satin skin. HO WAIT!! That's pure physical. That's no reason to love him. He hit me for god's sake!! He doesn't care at all, he's harsh, mean and has no emotions!'
The image of a sleeping Kai came to his mind.
'And he's so incredibly cute, though he doesn't want to be.' Rei sighed 'Fine I admit it, I love him. How can I not? Those eyes alone, they can drive me crazy. His tender touch and those triangles. He's such a mystery and I want to unravel that enigma. But can he ever love me?... That are trouble for later, now I have to find MY Kai. Heh, that doesn't sound bad at all.'
The neko-jin looked up to find a pair of baby-blue eyes still fixed on him. Max's gaze sparkled knowingly.
"Fine, I admit it! You're right. Now you're happy?" Rei admitted defeated.
Max let a huge smile appear on his lips. Grabbing another sugar cube, he walked towards Kenny. But when he stood in front of the boy, he turned once more to Rei.
"Good, it was about time." He said seriously. Takao looked at Max, then at Rei, Max, Rei. finally he could hold it no more.
"But WHAT are you two talking about? What do you admit Rei? And how did you know Max, whatever it is?!" He asked.
The two boys plainly ignored him.
"Chief, could you get us a ground plan of the city and the places where Kai might have gone to?" Max asked kind and stuffed his beloved sugar cube in his mouth.
"I'll write a note to Kai, You never know if he comes back." Rei said and went to their room to get pen and paper. Once Rei had left the room, Takao grabbed Max's shoulder gently.
"Maxie, what is going on? Tell me." He resisted the urge to shake the blonde and stared in those blue eyes. "Please?" he added pleadingly. Max sighed, how could he deny him?
"Look Takao, I can't tell you now. I'll explain it to you later." HE wasn't sure how Takao would react and it wasn't his job to tell him.
"Takao huffed. "Okay, but only because it's you. Understood?" he warned.
Max nodded happily.
~*~
Rei left the note on Kai's bed where he certainly would find it. The Chinese blader let his eyes travel through the room. The bed, Kai's duffel bag, even the closed window felt strange to him. As if it wasn't real with the crimson-eyed missing.
His eyes fell on Kai's coat in a corner of the room. He grabbed the stale- grey fabric and pressed it against his face. The neko-jin exhaled Kai's scent deeply. It was familiar and yet now, after his realisation he loved the cold blader, it seemed as if it was something completely different.
He imagined those gentle hands caressing his face, those strong but slender arms encircling his waist. He had never realised it before but when he was in the slate-haired boy's presence, he felt safe.
He looked through the window.
"Oh Kai, Damned. Where are you?"
~*~
"Ah Rei, you're back. What's with the jacket?" Takao asked curious, indicating the worn jacket Rei held in his hands. The Chinese blader looked down.
"Well, I thought Kai would be needing it." He said gingerly, flashing a brilliant smile.
"You mean he left without a coat or something similar? Then we sure need to hurry." The blue-haired blader exclaimed unbelievingly. "Okay chief, are you ready?"
"We're ready." Dizzy beeped indignant.
"Oh I'm sorry Dizzy, glad you're with us. Max?" Takao rambled. Max nodded curtly.
"All right, let's get going then!" Takao beamed exited.
~*~
The deserted alleys of the city were wearing down on the spirit of the four teens. Heavy rain falling down from the sky non-stop and the occasional lightnings did nothing to improve their mood.
Rei shivered despite the thick layers of clothing he was wearing. As most felines, he hated rain. It was all fun when you were inside, reading a good book next to a lovely warm fire. But now he was soaked. a soaked neko.
The others didn't fare much better, though they didn't despise the rain as much as the neko-jin.
They had been searching for Five long hours but no sign of the slate-haired teen. Takao and Max stealed not so hidden glances at each other from time to time. Chief would throw them some strange looks but was too preoccupied with keeping Dizzy dry for most of the time.
Rei was lost in his own thoughts. 'The sun is going under and we haven't found him yet. What could have happened? Brrr it's so cold. I wished he had his jacket with him, he'll freeze to death.' An image of Kai, freezing to death in some deserted alley much like they were now popped up in his mind. 'No, that is not happening. Kai would never die from the cold. He's probably in an expensive hotelroom, sleeping in his bed.' For some reason, Rei couldn't quite believe it himself, he had the feeling Kai was out there, somewhere in the cold. But Where!
"Rei.REI!"
"Hm what?" Rei watched Max staring at him.
"You're freezing, we all are. We've searched for more than five hours. It's dark and raining. and for all we know, Kai might have returned to the hotel. Why don't we go back and check your room? We're gaining nothing out of this." Max stated tired. Everybody had to agree, they felt as if they would fall asleep any moment.
"I guess you're right. I just hope Kai will be okay." Rei said softly.
"Hey it's Kai we're talking about right? He can take care of himself." Takao said not too concerned.
'I just wish you're right Takao.' He thought sadly. For the second time that night, he wondered where the slate-haired teen might be.
~*~
He didn't know how he got to this dark looming alley, nor how long he'd done to get there. A loud thunder roared above his head. Rain kept falling down on his already soaked frame. The crimson-eyed boy's breathing had becomen laboured. His skin felt hot as if a fire was burning him from inside, shivers wracked his pale body.
The slate-haired boy stared ahead, his crimson eyes fixed on the nothingness of the dark, daring it to consume him. He would be glad to welcome it, yet his wish was not granted.
'I killed him, I killed Rei.' He thought over and over again.
His feet kept leading him further to the unreachable pitch black ahead of him. 'I know it was a nightmare but. it felt so real. Those lips, they felt as delicate petals from a rose.' He shook his head wearily. 'And I destroyed the source from that beauty, I slit his throat! I cannot forgive myself, even if it were in a mere dream.'
Kai remembered the feeling of the cold blade cutting through Rei's delicate skin, the warm blood smearing his hands. The diminishing light in those warm golden eyes, holding nothing but love. The image that haunted him every second since he woke up. Never to forget, only to fear.
He halted in his tracks and steadied himself against a cold wall. Rei would never love him, his dream was a mere wish from his heart and in real life dreams didn't come true. If he even wanted too.
"I love him." He whispered hoarsely, his voice failing him.
It felt strange to speak those words he wasn't allowed to even think. He wasn't capable to love yet his confused heart told him otherwise.
'I cannot love him, Rei is a teammate. I long lost those emotions and Rei is a BOY. Then why did I kiss him? Can I really love him? Is that what my dream wanted to tell me?' he thought lost.
He slid down alongside the wall, his legs no longer able to carry his body. He sat down on the ground, the pool of cold rain soon mixing with warm blood. The combination of his injuries and the battering rain felt horrible, yet it was nothing compared to the agony his turmoil of emotions caused.
"Ah it seems I can't escape it. I love Rei, whether he loves me back or not. It doesn't matter anyway. I cannot let him be hurt. And that's exactly what I cause. Pain, Agony. I can't offer him the warmth he deserves." He whispered resigned to his destiny.
The sun was now completely gone and the twilight would soon be replaced by the cold of the night. Rain never stopped falling but the slate-haired teen didn't heed it anymore. Thunder kept on roaring. nothing reached the lone boy, his emotions were a complete void.
Kai clenched his fists in anger. His nightmare was still vivid in his mind. He had the distant feeling, he was missing something. important. He knew his memories were far from complete but why? What was responsible for his loss? But he knew one thing for sure, he wasn't going to let Boris hurt Rei even if he were the one to hurt the neko-jin to prevent him from something worse.
"Aah love is complicated!" Kai sighed softly
"That it sure is, my young Kai." The smug voice made Kai's eyes widen in horror. He heard the voice in every nightmare, keeping him from a peaceful sleep. Immediately he steeled his expression and redirected his senses on his surroundings.
"Boris." He spat, without looking up. He faintly recognised the presence of someone else, someone familiar. "Tala." His voice betrayed nothing of the numerous questions that rose in his head.
'Why is Tala here?'he thought frantically.
"What do you want?" he asked harshly when none of them had spoken for seven minutes.
"That is very simple young Kai. We want you to come back to the abbey and join the team once more." Boris said smug. Kai snorted.
"Well my answer is even more simple, it's NO." Kai snarled, still not looking at the two men.
"Well I have asked nicely. since it didn't work, we're going to use force." Boris said matter-of-factly.
Kai smirked. Deliberately slow, he looked up. Without knowing why, he kept his eyes fixed on Tala while addressing the loathsome Boris. He noticed the red-head flinch under the intensity of his glare. He wondered idly why he was surprised by the boy's reaction.
"Do you really think I'll be beaten by the two of you pitiful losers?" He sprang up in a gracious movement. The instant he was on his feet, however, he had to steady himself against the wall.
'What's wrong with me? I can't show weakness- certainly not now!' he thought desperately. He tried to ignore the flaming white-hot pain that seemed to overwhelm his senses but without avail. HE was trembling like a leaf and black spots were clouding his vision.
"My, my." Boris sneered "You're right, I didn't need to bring loyal Tala with me. You're so weak I could handle you on my own."
Kai growled, he wouldn't be beaten. He'd rather die. The ferocity burning in the slate-haired blader's eyes, belied his body's weakness. Fire burned through Boris' being, too hot to be touched yet at the same time freeing him inside.
"Those eyes of yours. I've always been fascinated by them. But I can imagine you forgot about that." Boris said it as if it were nothing but Kai felt a hidden meaning just behind the surface. It was just out of his reach, if only he could remember.
"Such fiery, what a shame to break it... Almost. But I will be the one to have that pleasure. After all, I've done it before, haven't I? You will subject my every wish." Boris sneered as he approached the slate-haired blader.
Kai willed himself not to flinch nor to step back.
"What are you talking about? You haven't broken me and you never will." He spat his hatred flared high. Boris was trying to confuse him, implicating certain things. The worst thing of all was that it was working. He didn't want to understand the cruel words but just wanted the man to stop suggesting. He was so caught up with Boris, he had forgotten all about Tala.
~*~
The red-haired boy stood frozen on his spot. The usual emotionless mask in place but if one would look closer, one might notice the confusion, well hidden in those icy orbs.
The first cracks to appear
'What is Boris implicating? He can't be serious! . I would have noticed. He's only trying to confuse Kai, that's it. hmpf, he's putting up a good fight but I can see he's losing. He cannot hide his emotions from me.' Tala frowned 'He's actually starting to believe it, he must be in a worse condition than I originally thought. He deserves it. He betrayed us, betrayed me for those bloody amateurs.'
His eyes were fixed on the bloody form of the crimson-eyed teen. It reminded him of the times when Voltaire or Boris had beaten him.
'If we stayed together, we could have handle it. No matter how hard they tried, they couldn't break us. All those years, I never saw you cry. I thought you would always be there for me, to support me. But one day you were gone and I was left behind. Do you like what you have done to me? What I've become because of you? 'Tala thought bitter.
It was then that he looked straight into those haunted crimson depths. Seconds seem to last for hours. It didn't matter how well he knew those burning orbs, he never got used to them. Unreadable emotions seemed to overwhelm him, to consume him. Not being able to resist the sheer power behind them, he averted his ice-blue eyes.
~*~
For the first time since he encountered them, his attention was drawn to the stoic Tala. The Russian blader had clenched his fists till they saw white as snow. The moment they locked gazes, he felt as if he was backhanded. Hatred, anger and unbelievable sadness shone bright in the other's eyes. But there was one emotion that dominated them all. Reproach And it was directed at him.
'What have I done to hurt him that much? Why does he hate my? I can't-' His thoughts were cut off as a fist connected with his jaw. The force behind the blow made him reeling back, falling to the ground. Shaking, he picked himself up but fell back halfway when Boris hit him in the chest.
"You don't think you can possibly can get away now do you?" Boris spat cruelly.
Kai's ragged breathing became even worse as he got a fit. As he coughed, he got the feeling his lungs were burning from the inside. His hand came away stained when he wiped off his mouth. Crimson eyes wide, he stared at the sticky blood. Too weak to stay standing, he fell on his knees.
"Tsk, is little Kai hurt? What a shame." Boris taunted.
"You're disgusting, you're just a puppet of Voltaire." Kai snarled back. Boris' eyes narrowed dangerously. Kai was vague aware of a boot approaching at full speed. It was only when the pain slammed through his nerves, he realised he had been hit. He welcomed the darkness that claimed him with open arms.
'Enough, I can't take it anymore.' were his last thoughts as he gave in to darkness.
~*~
Tala couldn't suppress a sharp intake of breath when Boris' foot hit Kai on the head. The purple-haired man seemed oblivious to the red-haired's distress and stared at the limp body of the slate-haired teen.
"So beautiful and so proud. You were always special. You had your fun long enough, it's time to come back." He murmured softly as if Kai was still awake. He turned around and faced Tala. He stared at the red-haired teen as if noticing him for the first time.
"Well, what are you standing there? Pick him up, we're taking young Kai home with us." Boris commandeered harshly before walking away.
Tala winced slightly at the sight of Kai. He had never seen the slate- haired teen so vulnerable. Sure, he had seen Kai bloody and beaten to an inch of death but something seemed different somehow. He couldn't tell what but it bothered him none the less.
He picked up the muscled but frail body of his former friend.
'He's so light, as if he hasn't eaten for days.' Tala frowned. It was not because he lusted after his body that he was suddenly concerned for Kai's well-being. Yet he couldn't help but notice how calm Kai seemed without his blood-red eyes piercing through everyone's soul. Calm, intoxicating, peaceful and so distant.
'Probably something that'll never change.' He mused 'Hmm I like a challenge, let's see if I can change that. After all, we've got quite some time ahead of us. haven't we Kai?' a smirk crept on his face.
***_~_***
Lune: pfff Tala really caused some troubles to write. But I hope it was OK. I know this wasn't my best part but you have to forgive me. I have a whole year of German to do in two weeks and my spelling check is malfunctioning.so there are probably way too many faults.
Kai: There she goes again with her silly excuses.
Lhune: Shut up!
Kai: And what if I don't?
Lhune: I'll. //frowns. sweatdrop//
Kai HA, you can't make me. lousy writer
Lhune: I'll make Takao fall for you too! You would be a cute couple.
Kai: WHAT? As if it isn't enough with three guys after me.
Tala: What's so bad about that?
Kana: Tala what are you doing here?
Rei: That was exactly what I wanted to ask you.
Tala: Well Kai is here..//smirks//
Rei: You hentai! Let my Kai alone! //chases Tala off set//
Kana, Kai and Lhune: //sweatdrop//
Kana: Now back to Tala's question, what is so bad about those two boys //she doesn't want to hear about Boris//
Kai: You still have to ask?!
Lhune: And Takao? //smirks evilly//
Kai: No way I'd rather be straight.
Kana: You serious?
Kai: Yes!
Lhune: We send Mariah after you.
Kai: NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO Rei where are you, I need some help to kill these two.
Rei: I'm not fighting them, remember the fight?
Kai: Got a point.
Lhune: Best readers on your left, below we have the famous button. LOOK LLLEFT! And now click it. DO IT! See that wasn't so difficult.
Kai: you're just begging, pathetic //walks off//
Lhune: You're just begging.. You're the one who's pathetic.
//tzing, a knife is embedded in the wall mere mm from Lhune's head//
Sorry, just kidding, Gee no need to attack me. Anyway people, I'll try to update sooner but I can't promise anything. See you around next time.
Star: Wow, that was direct.~-^. I really appreciate your ideas. Thanx but the thing is.it's becoming quite complicated. You will partly notice this chapter. But in general line it will be like that.
Kais Hot Babe: I'm so sorry but it seems I'm addicted to cliffies. Thanx, I'm glad you like it and I'll try to update sooner.
Strange person: You're the only one who answered my question. I'm so grateful!! My friend (Kana is hopelessly in love with the poor guy so it will be as your wish. And by the way, I went nowhere. I just needed some time. Difficult Tala grumble
The Fire-breathing-ferret: This is what happens. for the rest you'll have to wait.
L@DyFiCtIoN: Nice name! yes it was only a dream but some dreams do come true //grins evilly// gomen the update is so late.
Yoink Daydurfurits: Kai isn't going back soon, gomen. Rei will try to help him but.
Ginger Ninja: //blushes// you give me too much honour. Thanx
Krixel: Eh Kai went. You'll read in a minute. Thank you but I'm not that good. (and too say I was actually very happy when I wrote the dream thingy)
Dragonblade: yep poor Kai and there's more to come.
Devilburns: As you wish
SquirrelOfShadows: Well eh, I know you feel bad for them, but I'm not finished with them, each day I find new torments for them. Hope you'll like the next chapter too.
Lhune : I hope you all enjoyed the 4th chapter because here is the fifth.
Kana: That wasn't nice what you did to Kai!
Lhune: I could have done worse //grins evilly//
Kana: //scowls//
Lhune: I worked very hard for all of ya because after I typed the Fourth chapter, I had to go to the hospital. @_@ So I hope there weren't too many spelling mistakes in it because I hadn't got the time to check them.
Kai: As long as I'm not a bladder, it's fine by me.
Kana: Still not over that Kai? Well don't worry, this time you'll be a blader.
Kai: WHAT!!!!!
Kana: Just kiddin' //smiles sheepishly//
Lhune: As I said, I am in the hospital so I should have some time to write the next chapter. BUT I'm afraid I spend too much time drawing.
Kai and Rei: Me? //look surprised at each other//
Lhune: Nay, just elves, I have a lot of drawings from you though. I have a captain Jack/Kai and you two cuddling.
Rei and Kai: You have? //blush//
Kana: Yep she has.
Lhune: Anyway, everybody must read Fatali!!! Beautiful descriptions and a hm naughty Rei (no lemon .yet)
Kana: //glances at the story// Whaa! That is one long story
Lhune: Yes, isn't that just great? Anyway, gotta start writing. enjoy! =^-^=
Freezing Fire
By Lhune and Kana
Disclaimer: own nothing as you all know. wait I do own the plot.I hope
Chapter five
*You were hurt to understand. The strength of tears, someday.Certainly*
"Aah, my head hurts!"
"Chief, you're finally awake!" Takao smiled relieved.
"You slept for ages." Max added teasingly.
"What happened?" Kenny inquired, clutching his head while he climbed out the bed.
"Well eh. you fainted when you saw Kai's bloody chest." Takao said cautiously.
Kenny's eyes widened as he remembered the horrible sight of is captain. Panic flowed through him again and caused to pale him once more.
"Eh chief, you're not gonna faint again, are you?" Max asked concerned while studying the boy closely.
"No I'm not, where is Dizzy? I have to go and help Rei!" He was about to grab his precious laptop when he was pushed down on the bed by Takao.
"Oh no, Rei ordered us to stay out of their room till he said we could enter." Takao said seriously. "Man, Rei can be scary when he's in charge! I'm sure he followed some lessons with our Ice Captain." He added with mirth in his eyes.
The word Ice Captain didn't hold the usual taunt, instead it was spoken rather affectionately. Max gazed a bit hurt at his friend but when he noticed Takao was watching him, he was back to his usual hyper-happy self.
BLAM
The three teens were shocked as the door slammed open and a very distressed Rei stormed in.
"Kai is gone!" he said bewildered.
"WHAT?!" The others exclaimed, eyes popping out of their sockets. Rei began to pace the room nervously.
"He, he was having a nightmare, or at least that's what I think, and I tried to wake him but but. but I don't know what happened. I really don't but he ran off. I tried to follow him but the street was empty. He's violently ill and he hasn't healed yet!! He's outside in this weather! And I-"
Takao finally managed to grab Rei's shoulders and thus forcing him to stand still.
"Calm down, Sit down." He said in an authoritative tone. He took the raven- haired blader's arm and put him in an overstuffed chair. "Now tell us what happened, but slower this time." Takao asked worried.
Rei held his head in his hands, trembling like a leaf.
"It's my fault, I shouldn't have tried to wake him." Rei stuttered helplessly.
"REI! Snap out of it! It isn't your fault! Understood?" Takao said strict.
Rei nodded miserably.
"So he was having a nightmare, what happened next?" Takao asked calm.
"He looked very pained so I tried to wake him." Rei told in a much calmer voice now.
Max gazed at the blue haired boy in front of him. He had never seen Takao so mature before and he decided he rather liked it. It was a side of the Japanese boy they didn't saw often. He broke out of his trance when Rei finished his story.
"Don't worry Rei; we will help you to find Kai." Takao reassured, grabbing a warm, fur lined coat. "Now where did that sourpuss run off to?" He muttered gruffly as an after thought. He reached for the door.
Following his example, the others too grabbed their coat and rushed after Takao. They skidded to a halt when Takao suddenly stopped in front of the door. Max, who was right behind him, didn't notice in time and bumped straight into the blader. Feeling Takao's body warmth through the many layers of clothing, he felt a blush cover his face. Hurriedly he jumped away from Takao.
"I'm sorry." He said softly while he fidgeted with the fur of his coat.
Takao studied the flushed teen intently.
"Ne Maxie," he laid his hand on his friend's shoulder. He felt a bit hurt when the blonde cringed under his touch. "You aren't becoming ill too? Maybe it is better if you get back in bed. We'll look for Kai." He said concerned.
Max misunderstood Takao's intentions and thought the blue-haired youth wanted to get rid of him. 'No Takao would never do such a thing!' he berated himself.
"No" he stammered "I will be fine. But why did you stop so suddenly?" He quickly changed the subject.
Takao threw him one last concerned look but answered the question anyway.
"I understand you're concerned about Kai, Rei. But you've never lost your cool like that." Takao eyed Rei questioningly. "Since when is Kai SO important to you?"
Rei started to blush, though he didn't see the reason.
"Isn't that normal? He's our captain, we need him! Besides remember, he is ILL and BEATEN UP!" Rei said exasperated.
Takao bowed hid head in defeat.
"You're right, gomen." He murmured ashamed that he hadn't thought of that.
Max on the other hand, studied Rei with an odd look. Rei shifted uncomfortably under the blonde's gaze.
"And the truth Rei?" his soft voice made all turn around to watch the duo. Max's eyes never left the frozen form of the Chinese blader.
~*~
'The truth? That was the truth right? I mean, I can't possibly care for that cold bastard, let alone love him. He's cold he's arrogant, he makes us train until we drop dead. True he has a gorgeous body, those muscles beneath that satin skin. HO WAIT!! That's pure physical. That's no reason to love him. He hit me for god's sake!! He doesn't care at all, he's harsh, mean and has no emotions!'
The image of a sleeping Kai came to his mind.
'And he's so incredibly cute, though he doesn't want to be.' Rei sighed 'Fine I admit it, I love him. How can I not? Those eyes alone, they can drive me crazy. His tender touch and those triangles. He's such a mystery and I want to unravel that enigma. But can he ever love me?... That are trouble for later, now I have to find MY Kai. Heh, that doesn't sound bad at all.'
The neko-jin looked up to find a pair of baby-blue eyes still fixed on him. Max's gaze sparkled knowingly.
"Fine, I admit it! You're right. Now you're happy?" Rei admitted defeated.
Max let a huge smile appear on his lips. Grabbing another sugar cube, he walked towards Kenny. But when he stood in front of the boy, he turned once more to Rei.
"Good, it was about time." He said seriously. Takao looked at Max, then at Rei, Max, Rei. finally he could hold it no more.
"But WHAT are you two talking about? What do you admit Rei? And how did you know Max, whatever it is?!" He asked.
The two boys plainly ignored him.
"Chief, could you get us a ground plan of the city and the places where Kai might have gone to?" Max asked kind and stuffed his beloved sugar cube in his mouth.
"I'll write a note to Kai, You never know if he comes back." Rei said and went to their room to get pen and paper. Once Rei had left the room, Takao grabbed Max's shoulder gently.
"Maxie, what is going on? Tell me." He resisted the urge to shake the blonde and stared in those blue eyes. "Please?" he added pleadingly. Max sighed, how could he deny him?
"Look Takao, I can't tell you now. I'll explain it to you later." HE wasn't sure how Takao would react and it wasn't his job to tell him.
"Takao huffed. "Okay, but only because it's you. Understood?" he warned.
Max nodded happily.
~*~
Rei left the note on Kai's bed where he certainly would find it. The Chinese blader let his eyes travel through the room. The bed, Kai's duffel bag, even the closed window felt strange to him. As if it wasn't real with the crimson-eyed missing.
His eyes fell on Kai's coat in a corner of the room. He grabbed the stale- grey fabric and pressed it against his face. The neko-jin exhaled Kai's scent deeply. It was familiar and yet now, after his realisation he loved the cold blader, it seemed as if it was something completely different.
He imagined those gentle hands caressing his face, those strong but slender arms encircling his waist. He had never realised it before but when he was in the slate-haired boy's presence, he felt safe.
He looked through the window.
"Oh Kai, Damned. Where are you?"
~*~
"Ah Rei, you're back. What's with the jacket?" Takao asked curious, indicating the worn jacket Rei held in his hands. The Chinese blader looked down.
"Well, I thought Kai would be needing it." He said gingerly, flashing a brilliant smile.
"You mean he left without a coat or something similar? Then we sure need to hurry." The blue-haired blader exclaimed unbelievingly. "Okay chief, are you ready?"
"We're ready." Dizzy beeped indignant.
"Oh I'm sorry Dizzy, glad you're with us. Max?" Takao rambled. Max nodded curtly.
"All right, let's get going then!" Takao beamed exited.
~*~
The deserted alleys of the city were wearing down on the spirit of the four teens. Heavy rain falling down from the sky non-stop and the occasional lightnings did nothing to improve their mood.
Rei shivered despite the thick layers of clothing he was wearing. As most felines, he hated rain. It was all fun when you were inside, reading a good book next to a lovely warm fire. But now he was soaked. a soaked neko.
The others didn't fare much better, though they didn't despise the rain as much as the neko-jin.
They had been searching for Five long hours but no sign of the slate-haired teen. Takao and Max stealed not so hidden glances at each other from time to time. Chief would throw them some strange looks but was too preoccupied with keeping Dizzy dry for most of the time.
Rei was lost in his own thoughts. 'The sun is going under and we haven't found him yet. What could have happened? Brrr it's so cold. I wished he had his jacket with him, he'll freeze to death.' An image of Kai, freezing to death in some deserted alley much like they were now popped up in his mind. 'No, that is not happening. Kai would never die from the cold. He's probably in an expensive hotelroom, sleeping in his bed.' For some reason, Rei couldn't quite believe it himself, he had the feeling Kai was out there, somewhere in the cold. But Where!
"Rei.REI!"
"Hm what?" Rei watched Max staring at him.
"You're freezing, we all are. We've searched for more than five hours. It's dark and raining. and for all we know, Kai might have returned to the hotel. Why don't we go back and check your room? We're gaining nothing out of this." Max stated tired. Everybody had to agree, they felt as if they would fall asleep any moment.
"I guess you're right. I just hope Kai will be okay." Rei said softly.
"Hey it's Kai we're talking about right? He can take care of himself." Takao said not too concerned.
'I just wish you're right Takao.' He thought sadly. For the second time that night, he wondered where the slate-haired teen might be.
~*~
He didn't know how he got to this dark looming alley, nor how long he'd done to get there. A loud thunder roared above his head. Rain kept falling down on his already soaked frame. The crimson-eyed boy's breathing had becomen laboured. His skin felt hot as if a fire was burning him from inside, shivers wracked his pale body.
The slate-haired boy stared ahead, his crimson eyes fixed on the nothingness of the dark, daring it to consume him. He would be glad to welcome it, yet his wish was not granted.
'I killed him, I killed Rei.' He thought over and over again.
His feet kept leading him further to the unreachable pitch black ahead of him. 'I know it was a nightmare but. it felt so real. Those lips, they felt as delicate petals from a rose.' He shook his head wearily. 'And I destroyed the source from that beauty, I slit his throat! I cannot forgive myself, even if it were in a mere dream.'
Kai remembered the feeling of the cold blade cutting through Rei's delicate skin, the warm blood smearing his hands. The diminishing light in those warm golden eyes, holding nothing but love. The image that haunted him every second since he woke up. Never to forget, only to fear.
He halted in his tracks and steadied himself against a cold wall. Rei would never love him, his dream was a mere wish from his heart and in real life dreams didn't come true. If he even wanted too.
"I love him." He whispered hoarsely, his voice failing him.
It felt strange to speak those words he wasn't allowed to even think. He wasn't capable to love yet his confused heart told him otherwise.
'I cannot love him, Rei is a teammate. I long lost those emotions and Rei is a BOY. Then why did I kiss him? Can I really love him? Is that what my dream wanted to tell me?' he thought lost.
He slid down alongside the wall, his legs no longer able to carry his body. He sat down on the ground, the pool of cold rain soon mixing with warm blood. The combination of his injuries and the battering rain felt horrible, yet it was nothing compared to the agony his turmoil of emotions caused.
"Ah it seems I can't escape it. I love Rei, whether he loves me back or not. It doesn't matter anyway. I cannot let him be hurt. And that's exactly what I cause. Pain, Agony. I can't offer him the warmth he deserves." He whispered resigned to his destiny.
The sun was now completely gone and the twilight would soon be replaced by the cold of the night. Rain never stopped falling but the slate-haired teen didn't heed it anymore. Thunder kept on roaring. nothing reached the lone boy, his emotions were a complete void.
Kai clenched his fists in anger. His nightmare was still vivid in his mind. He had the distant feeling, he was missing something. important. He knew his memories were far from complete but why? What was responsible for his loss? But he knew one thing for sure, he wasn't going to let Boris hurt Rei even if he were the one to hurt the neko-jin to prevent him from something worse.
"Aah love is complicated!" Kai sighed softly
"That it sure is, my young Kai." The smug voice made Kai's eyes widen in horror. He heard the voice in every nightmare, keeping him from a peaceful sleep. Immediately he steeled his expression and redirected his senses on his surroundings.
"Boris." He spat, without looking up. He faintly recognised the presence of someone else, someone familiar. "Tala." His voice betrayed nothing of the numerous questions that rose in his head.
'Why is Tala here?'he thought frantically.
"What do you want?" he asked harshly when none of them had spoken for seven minutes.
"That is very simple young Kai. We want you to come back to the abbey and join the team once more." Boris said smug. Kai snorted.
"Well my answer is even more simple, it's NO." Kai snarled, still not looking at the two men.
"Well I have asked nicely. since it didn't work, we're going to use force." Boris said matter-of-factly.
Kai smirked. Deliberately slow, he looked up. Without knowing why, he kept his eyes fixed on Tala while addressing the loathsome Boris. He noticed the red-head flinch under the intensity of his glare. He wondered idly why he was surprised by the boy's reaction.
"Do you really think I'll be beaten by the two of you pitiful losers?" He sprang up in a gracious movement. The instant he was on his feet, however, he had to steady himself against the wall.
'What's wrong with me? I can't show weakness- certainly not now!' he thought desperately. He tried to ignore the flaming white-hot pain that seemed to overwhelm his senses but without avail. HE was trembling like a leaf and black spots were clouding his vision.
"My, my." Boris sneered "You're right, I didn't need to bring loyal Tala with me. You're so weak I could handle you on my own."
Kai growled, he wouldn't be beaten. He'd rather die. The ferocity burning in the slate-haired blader's eyes, belied his body's weakness. Fire burned through Boris' being, too hot to be touched yet at the same time freeing him inside.
"Those eyes of yours. I've always been fascinated by them. But I can imagine you forgot about that." Boris said it as if it were nothing but Kai felt a hidden meaning just behind the surface. It was just out of his reach, if only he could remember.
"Such fiery, what a shame to break it... Almost. But I will be the one to have that pleasure. After all, I've done it before, haven't I? You will subject my every wish." Boris sneered as he approached the slate-haired blader.
Kai willed himself not to flinch nor to step back.
"What are you talking about? You haven't broken me and you never will." He spat his hatred flared high. Boris was trying to confuse him, implicating certain things. The worst thing of all was that it was working. He didn't want to understand the cruel words but just wanted the man to stop suggesting. He was so caught up with Boris, he had forgotten all about Tala.
~*~
The red-haired boy stood frozen on his spot. The usual emotionless mask in place but if one would look closer, one might notice the confusion, well hidden in those icy orbs.
The first cracks to appear
'What is Boris implicating? He can't be serious! . I would have noticed. He's only trying to confuse Kai, that's it. hmpf, he's putting up a good fight but I can see he's losing. He cannot hide his emotions from me.' Tala frowned 'He's actually starting to believe it, he must be in a worse condition than I originally thought. He deserves it. He betrayed us, betrayed me for those bloody amateurs.'
His eyes were fixed on the bloody form of the crimson-eyed teen. It reminded him of the times when Voltaire or Boris had beaten him.
'If we stayed together, we could have handle it. No matter how hard they tried, they couldn't break us. All those years, I never saw you cry. I thought you would always be there for me, to support me. But one day you were gone and I was left behind. Do you like what you have done to me? What I've become because of you? 'Tala thought bitter.
It was then that he looked straight into those haunted crimson depths. Seconds seem to last for hours. It didn't matter how well he knew those burning orbs, he never got used to them. Unreadable emotions seemed to overwhelm him, to consume him. Not being able to resist the sheer power behind them, he averted his ice-blue eyes.
~*~
For the first time since he encountered them, his attention was drawn to the stoic Tala. The Russian blader had clenched his fists till they saw white as snow. The moment they locked gazes, he felt as if he was backhanded. Hatred, anger and unbelievable sadness shone bright in the other's eyes. But there was one emotion that dominated them all. Reproach And it was directed at him.
'What have I done to hurt him that much? Why does he hate my? I can't-' His thoughts were cut off as a fist connected with his jaw. The force behind the blow made him reeling back, falling to the ground. Shaking, he picked himself up but fell back halfway when Boris hit him in the chest.
"You don't think you can possibly can get away now do you?" Boris spat cruelly.
Kai's ragged breathing became even worse as he got a fit. As he coughed, he got the feeling his lungs were burning from the inside. His hand came away stained when he wiped off his mouth. Crimson eyes wide, he stared at the sticky blood. Too weak to stay standing, he fell on his knees.
"Tsk, is little Kai hurt? What a shame." Boris taunted.
"You're disgusting, you're just a puppet of Voltaire." Kai snarled back. Boris' eyes narrowed dangerously. Kai was vague aware of a boot approaching at full speed. It was only when the pain slammed through his nerves, he realised he had been hit. He welcomed the darkness that claimed him with open arms.
'Enough, I can't take it anymore.' were his last thoughts as he gave in to darkness.
~*~
Tala couldn't suppress a sharp intake of breath when Boris' foot hit Kai on the head. The purple-haired man seemed oblivious to the red-haired's distress and stared at the limp body of the slate-haired teen.
"So beautiful and so proud. You were always special. You had your fun long enough, it's time to come back." He murmured softly as if Kai was still awake. He turned around and faced Tala. He stared at the red-haired teen as if noticing him for the first time.
"Well, what are you standing there? Pick him up, we're taking young Kai home with us." Boris commandeered harshly before walking away.
Tala winced slightly at the sight of Kai. He had never seen the slate- haired teen so vulnerable. Sure, he had seen Kai bloody and beaten to an inch of death but something seemed different somehow. He couldn't tell what but it bothered him none the less.
He picked up the muscled but frail body of his former friend.
'He's so light, as if he hasn't eaten for days.' Tala frowned. It was not because he lusted after his body that he was suddenly concerned for Kai's well-being. Yet he couldn't help but notice how calm Kai seemed without his blood-red eyes piercing through everyone's soul. Calm, intoxicating, peaceful and so distant.
'Probably something that'll never change.' He mused 'Hmm I like a challenge, let's see if I can change that. After all, we've got quite some time ahead of us. haven't we Kai?' a smirk crept on his face.
***_~_***
Lune: pfff Tala really caused some troubles to write. But I hope it was OK. I know this wasn't my best part but you have to forgive me. I have a whole year of German to do in two weeks and my spelling check is malfunctioning.so there are probably way too many faults.
Kai: There she goes again with her silly excuses.
Lhune: Shut up!
Kai: And what if I don't?
Lhune: I'll. //frowns. sweatdrop//
Kai HA, you can't make me. lousy writer
Lhune: I'll make Takao fall for you too! You would be a cute couple.
Kai: WHAT? As if it isn't enough with three guys after me.
Tala: What's so bad about that?
Kana: Tala what are you doing here?
Rei: That was exactly what I wanted to ask you.
Tala: Well Kai is here..//smirks//
Rei: You hentai! Let my Kai alone! //chases Tala off set//
Kana, Kai and Lhune: //sweatdrop//
Kana: Now back to Tala's question, what is so bad about those two boys //she doesn't want to hear about Boris//
Kai: You still have to ask?!
Lhune: And Takao? //smirks evilly//
Kai: No way I'd rather be straight.
Kana: You serious?
Kai: Yes!
Lhune: We send Mariah after you.
Kai: NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO Rei where are you, I need some help to kill these two.
Rei: I'm not fighting them, remember the fight?
Kai: Got a point.
Lhune: Best readers on your left, below we have the famous button. LOOK LLLEFT! And now click it. DO IT! See that wasn't so difficult.
Kai: you're just begging, pathetic //walks off//
Lhune: You're just begging.. You're the one who's pathetic.
//tzing, a knife is embedded in the wall mere mm from Lhune's head//
Sorry, just kidding, Gee no need to attack me. Anyway people, I'll try to update sooner but I can't promise anything. See you around next time.
