Reviews chapter 10 THANK YOU

Autumnburn : Thank you, sorry you had to wait for so long

Dark Reiko: Well it took a lot of time but I finally did it. Thank you for the review.

Syaoran-Lover: I didn't make it to the update soon part as you already found out, I'm really sorry for that. And yes, it will remain Kai/Rei… I have the ending sorta planned but be sure… there will be a lot of Kai/Tala former-lovers (?) or friends parts in next chapters. I must admit that the Kai/Tala pairing has gotten to me too… maybe some other time.

Starfiredevil: right! Thanks for review, I'm glad you like it.

Darkening Dreams: I really try to update sooner. Honestly, it just doesn't work out for me, I'm sorry.

Bonnie Mizuhara Phantom: Is it a horrorstory? Never thought of it like that but I guess you're right. Boris belongs to some kind of horror attraction so well…. As long as you like it.

Lullaby Lily: Indeed Lunatic Lily sounds more like you. I'm glad you did let me sleep during our trip to London. I wish you lots of good luck for the exams… Ik zal dag en nacht duimen… maak daarvan enkel nacht, het is nogal moeilijk om te duimen EN te schrijven/typen/whatever. I'm looking forward to our next trip… Die nu inmiddels ook al voorbij is… denk ik toch? Ah the horror! Can't keep up with the time.

Bffimagine: I know that feeling and I agree. I hate Boris too… especially what I allow him to do.

Bloody eyes: Yep, I'm addicted to cliffhangers. Updating soon is never one of my greatehem qualities, I'm sorry. I'm afraid Tala cannot do much to help Kai, I'm sorry for that too.

ForgottenHope: Bad images… well there are more bad images to come but that's for later chapters. Be assured, Kai will not end up with Boris in the end and I will finish this fic… I promise (I just don't know how long it will take)

Sonalee: Kenny is indeed straight and I might just find him a girl, however, I fear that boy loves Dizzy just far to much to have some other interest. Thank you for the idea anyway.

Devilburns: more, yes. Soon, I'm very sorry.

Thecheat: uhm, can't help it. Really I can't. No matter how hard I try, updating is an awful task to me.

Sarcasmcat: I feel honoured. I think there are a lot of better stories on the net than ours but I'm incredibly happy none the less that you like it so much.

Kaisuke: eh, yeah… And a lot more of that to come.

Nessi: You'll have to fight with Kana to decide just who Tala belongs to. In my opinion he just belongs to Kai or even Bryan (Tala'll probably kill me for saying that) but you decide. Glad you like the fic… It's for you readers that I'm still writing.

Wind-Writer: I managed to update… that is something right?

MasterFranny: Wow long review, thanks a lot! Yep we all like it when Kai is hated by his teammates, they just don't understand why he does what he is doing. (that sounded weird) I'm not sure to what extend Rei will find out what Kai went through but Tala knows. And yes, it'll take a long time (right until the end) but Boris definitely is a good guy… just a bit violent and jealous. I'm currently in for the Kai/Tala pairing (partly thanks to your stories) and I'm so grateful you write them because there are far to few of them on the net. A wakizachi is a rather small Japanese sword. The largest is katana, then you have the wakizachi and lastly the tato. Ian and Spencer just don't really care, they don't want to come between Tala and Bryan and besides Kai did betray them.

Eyriess: reread the whole fic? I know it's my fault… waiting to damn long to update. I reread it too if that consoles you.

Vampyre Neko: Congratulations and Happy birthday (sorry It's too late) You're allowed to do whatever you want to Ian and Sergey, as long as you don't damage them permanently. I still need them for the fic.

Lonely in Russia: poor Kai… and I'm not finished with him yet.

Trinity of the phoenixes: uhm… Bryan won't be nicer for a long time… The worst is yet to come I'm afraid.

Dur En Thurin b: Thanks, I will (as always) try to update sooner next time. BTW what does your name mean, I understand parts of it… LotR right?

Svart Mirai: Tala will be experiencing some angst too… confusion all over. Glad you can wait… I have to thanks you all on my knees for your patience.

Tai-writer: Indeed, Kai-torture is the loveliest thing on earth for all I care. I promise you there will be a lot more torture to come.

Review chapter 11 part 1 THANK YOU !

Maru of the blazing winds: Yes I know I'm twisted and I promise Kai will get out of that place one day… however I do not know when exactly Gomen Kristen Hiwatari; thank you… here's the next part and I have far too much inspiration for what should come next. … CRAZY! Yay this is the worst, I'm honoured! EclipsedLight thanks, I do continue but I'ml afraid I'm addicted to cliffhangers. xxFalin Here's more of it. Hikata Thank you! This is a part of what happens next, a very small part snowygox1002 Yes sir! Sorekai I'll try to find it, please have (lots of) patience. Mrsalexwatkins You really confused me with your explanation. I haven't counted but I believe you Kai's bunny Thank you for loving this fic… a lot of people told me to update so here it is hbl333 hih I won't leave, I promise. I'm afraid Rei will have to wait another chap, gomen Blazin Shadow the picture is on wait for now I'm afraid but I will think of it Windstar I didn't stop… honestly! Thin-K you know my answers already, nice to see/read you Anonymous Wow you thought it one of the best chapters. I'm glad cause I was still doubting. Kitamea I can't help the cliffhangers.. really I'm addicted myself Nobodynow Ah no, I hadn't forgotten Tala's birthday but I was in the hospital back then… I hadn't found the time later on cause I spent too much time between hospital and school. (I'm going back there tomorrow) And I know about the grammar, one day I'll fix that but I'm glad you noticed. Scorchedice Yes I keep writing, picture is on hold but I'll remember you Sayoran-Lover Ah glad you liked, I'm afraid pictures are on a hold for now sorry and I really try to update sooner. silverPhoenix thank you, one of the best is too much honour and I'm sorry for the long update wait. Master Hiei whii 5 out of 5! Sorry but the pic is on hold but I'll remember. Yami no Neko eh… the finish isn't there yet, sorry it's not that easy. Bra-Two I know, but I can't help writing it this way. Nessi glad you liked it! Picture is on a hold I think. Master Franny Ah I know you! Read your stories too. I really try to update as soon as possible… but it seldom is soon. Crazy neko-JIN yes I like angst… I'm glad I write it well enough to bring it over as such Lullaby Lily As always thank you and good luck with the exams…I'll call you once they're passed. GabZ maybe the picture reached you, otherwise it's on hold due to e-mail problems. Seylin well yes horrible… but I have more terrible things in mind, picture is probably on hold as I told the previous reviewer as well. Kiko cat sorry for the long wait picture is on hold due to e-mail crisis. Eyries we'll now it's definitely been a long time… and I'm afraid I'm the one who's killing Kai… it's all in my mind

Lhune:My humble apologies for the long waiting but here it finally is… The next chapter/ bows deeply/

Tala:Took you long enough… I was bleeding to death!

Lhune:Well I'm really sorry. You better thank the reviewers, if it wasn't for them I might not have updated yet… they helped me overcome my disease. /being quite dramatic /

Kai:Serves you right! After all the suffering you made me go through… and still do/deathglare first degree/

Lhune:Gomen nasai but I'm afraid it still isn't over yet. /hands up in apologize/

Kai:Nani!

Lhune:Never mind, you'll read about it in time… One day you'll get through I promise (though I cannot say when as for now) /mutters under her breath/

Bryan:Ha/ laughs at Kai/

Kai/ ultimate deathglare, really dangerous/

Lhune:Nah I really need to give all of you a short explanation. I know since 2 and a half year that I have Multiple Sclerose or MS. I hadn't had much trouble with that except for hospitalisation each three months and three injections each weak. Since begin this year however, I didn't even reach the month without trouble and well. I had a time when I couldn't walk without help, my balance is off from time to time and my vision is horrible… So that explains why I couldn't update until now… even this is painstakingly slow to type Oo.

Rei. I didn't know that….

Tala:Eh, you still here/ eyes Rei suspiciously/

Rei:Yes, I am… of course/glares/

Tala:I hadn't heard from you for so long I supposed you were dead. /shrugs matter of factly/

Rei:NANI/gets ready to attack Tala/

Kana:Hold it guys.. let's not fight. / keeps the two of them apart/

Lhune:Thank you Kana. /sighs/

Kai:So what's going to happen now? Not another torture I hope!

Lhune:Eh… / looks at Kana/ Have you told the readers yet that you-

Kai:What! You have to be kidding! I just came from torture previous chapter. You can't do this!

Rei:Poor Kai.. I will comfort you /advances to Kai/

Tala:But… /eyes Rei threateningly/

Kai:enough! I'm not some kind of property you can fight for… so cut the possessiveness.

SILENCE

Kai:We'll see what the story brings /start to walk away/

Lhune:(to readers) he's under a lot of stress lately.

Kana:Hey Kai! Don't you want to know what's going to happen to you?

Kai/returns cussing/ Damn me for wanting to know what's going to happen… Damn me for even being in this fic.

Rei:You didn't really have a choice. /compassionate/

Lhune:Ah well, enjoy the next part… Kai please don't hurt me afterwards. / hides behind Kana's back/

PLEASE LOOK AT THE NOTES AT THA END OF THIS PAGE

Chapter 11 part 2

By Lhune (and Kana)

Golden chains are still chains, I see little difference.

Captive of Darkness by Cassia and Siobhan

"TALA!"

Bryan was shocked as the slate-haired teen appeared in the doorway, carrying the limp form of the abused Russian redhead.

"YOU SON OF A BITCH! What did you do to him!" The lilac-haired teen yelled furiously bolting forwards to take Tala from the half naked blader.

Kai simply remained silent… as if all will to act had vanished.

Handling Tala with utmost tenderness, Bryan made sure the iceblue-eyed teen was as comfortable as possible after laying him down on a bench in the back of the room. Spreading a warm jacket beneath his head like a soft pillow, he gently pushed a wayward tress from Tala's sweaty forehead.

"Take care of Tala!" He ordered Ian and Spencer before turning to Kai, "And don't you dare to interfere. This is my battle, my own." He warned over his shoulder as he advanced towards the crimson-eyed Russian.

"Bryan do you think this is really-" Ian tried quivering but shut up as Bryan sent him a threatening glare. The smaller teen hurried to help Spencer who was already washing away the blood that coated Tala's pale form.

"Now it's between us traitor. I knew from the beginning that nothing good could come from your reappearance… Only hurt, damage, pain… That is what you do best don't you Kai? Taking away every possibility of hope, however small it may be." Bryan growled menacingly.

During his speech he had wrapped his hands around the fragile neck as the stoic phoenix didn't resist. He ignored the numerous injuries he saw before him and instead, felt his anger rise as Kai didn't show any indication of response.

"You really don't care do you Kai? It's all just a game to you. Oh wow, let's see how many lives I'll manage to destroy this time. You make me sick Kai. It had been better if you were never born." The pale-eyed blader seethed, slowly constricting Kai's air supply further. He desperately searched in the blood-red orbs for some sign of emotion, any sign that he had heard him. But the normally fiery depths were dull and unfathomable.

Kai was flowing in and out of consciousness…

He was vaguely aware that Bryan was chocking him but he couldn't summon the will to fight back. His sole attention was focused on the red-haired teen who was being treated on a bench somewhere in the back of the room. All the time hard words kept penetrating his conscious, viciously attacking his mind and his soul.

"Only hurt, damage, pain… That is what you do best don't you Kai?"

It wasn't as if it was the first time that someone had spoken those words to him. All his life he was reminded how utterly disgusting he was, no matter how hard he tried he couldn't bring something different than despair and pain… He had accepted that but no matter how many times he had heard those words before… each time they hurt like hot tendrils that tore his raw scars open. Aggravating them, making sure they would remain fresh forever.

Bryan "You make me sick Kai. It had been better if you were never born."

They were right.

Voltaire "You killed your own father, such a young assassin."

The blood splattering on his face. He would be comforted if they were lies…only lies.

His father "It's your bloody own fault that your pathetic mama died!"

But he knew it was true. He couldn't escape it no longer…He was out of air.

The Bladebreakers "How do you DARE to touch him, after all you've done!"

He would soon be released from his misery, he longed for the darkness to embrace him where nothing could harm him. For once he would have some peace, if only for a little time.

Bryan noticed that the slate-haired teen was losing conscious and threw him away in disgust. The battered body slammed against the wall and slid down, leaving a bright red trail in his wake.

"Why aren't you even trying to fight back Kai. Don't you dare to ignore me! You won't come off so easily this time!" He hissed furiously and hit the limp form harshly with his heavy boot, he caught the slate-haired Russian squarely in the chest.

"Stand up Kai and fight me!" Bryan growled enraged. His pale eyes were flaming with an intensity bordering closely to madness.

For several seconds nothing happened. Silence reigned in the cold room safe for the harsh breathing of the two boys.

"Just as I thought, you're just another weakling. A spoiled grandchild of the director… Boris' pet. Everyone here knows how he calls you.

My little phoenix.

You're just his fuck-toy. A filthy whore begging to be taken. Maybe you should share your abilities with the rest of the Abbey. I'm sure there are a lot of older bladers in desperate need of some relief." The pale-eyed Russian taunted cruelly as he slowly stepped closer towards the now shivering teenager. Bryan hadn't missed the violent shudder when he mentioned the nickname and was delighted to have some reaction from the stoic teen in the end.

His smirk grew even wider as he noticed that Kai weakly tried to stand up.

He should have known darkness would've been too good for him…

After all, he hadn't thought yet of the worst.

Tala "The great Kai, huddled in a corner, hiding."

A sharp pain shot through his chest, whether it was from Bryan's boot or his heart he didn't know. After all, Tala had been his best friend once… He would've liked to call him his friend once more… not that he considered himself worthy of such a title.

Rei "I hope you rot in hell!"

This time he was sure that the pain in his chest was the mere thought that stabbed through his heart like a poisoned dagger.

Suddenly some of Bryan's cruel taunting caught his ears.

My Little Phoenix

'BORIS!' his heart raced in panic and he couldn't suppress a shudder to wrack his body.

'How could I forget! Boris ordered me to be back for… If I won't be on time he won't hesitate to hurt Tala again… after all that was the bargain. I've got to go to him!' Kai's pulse raced as he tried to get up.

'Why must this always happen to me?" the scarlet-eyed teen thought cynically. He would be forced to fight his way past Bryan to get to another session of torture.

'Better get over with it' determination coursed through him as he made up his mind, lessening the agony to a dull hurt.

"So you've finally decided to fight, dear Kai." Bryan spoke cocky and took one step back to get a better view.

Though the stoic teen's movements were far from his normal grace, they still remained fluent and strong. When he stood his full height, Bryan noticed for the first time just how badly the slate-haired teen was wounded. Before he had assumed that it was Tala's blood but now he could clearly see that Kai's condition was just as bad if not worse than that of Tala.

For a split second he wondered if he was doing the right thing, but he lost that thought as the burning orbs once again pierced through the shadows that Kai's bangs created on his eyes.

"Shut up Bryan and move"

The phoenix was back… and he was ready to fight.

Bryan lunged at the crimson-eyed teen with an animalistic cry and threw a punch at his face. Kai blocked it fluently with speed that shouldn't be possible for someone in his state of body and he retaliated swiftly with a punch of his own towards the falcon's abdomen. It hit his mark and Bryan gasped in surprise as he staggered a few steps backwards.

He recovered quickly and took a wipe at Kai's legs. The slate-haired teen managed to avoid the strike but couldn't prevent the next punch from hitting one of the deep cuts on his upper arm. He grunted in pain but didn't pause to catch his breath and instead launched another attack at the lilac-haired teen.

It didn't miss its mark this time either and the blader fell backwards on his back. Kai quickly put his foot on Bryan's chest, forcing him to remain on the floor.

"You lose… again." Kai stated indifferently as he looked down upon the pale-eyed Russian.

"Wrong." Bryan smirked and slammed a knife he'd pulled out of his pocket in Kai's leg. His smirk faltered, however, as Kai didn't flinch but merely bent down grabbing his face in a viselike grip.

"You think this'll stop me?" he whispered deadly, indicating to the knife that was so deep imbedded in his leg that the top came out on the other end.

Bryan couldn't help but shiver at the intensity he saw in the blood-red orbs, glowing like fire.

"Well you're wrong." Kai breathed softly as he removed the knife with a harsh pull and held the bloodied blade at Bryan's neck, biting in the soft flesh.

Moving so fast that Bryan only saw a blur, he retreated the knife from Bryan's neck and slammed it towards his face.

"Shouldn't we… I mean, don't you think we should interfere?" Ian asked nervously, shooting glanced towards to other end of the room. When Spencer didn't answer he tugged at his sleeve.

"Shouldn't we …do something, Spencer?" He trembled anxious.

Spencer looked up from where Tala lay and regarded the smaller teen indifferently.

"We are doing something. We're helping Tala." He replied undisturbed.

Ian was still fidgeting. "But what if they kill each other? Kai wasn't looking too good but we all know he has strength we can only dream of." He implored with large eyes.

"There isn't much dreaming about Kai's strength. He remains human and the strength you seem to admire so much has brought him naught but pain." Spencer muttered under his breath as he returned his attention to the ghostly pale Tala.

"But don't you even care?" Ian enquired unbelievingly while he observed his sturdy teammate.

"I do care but there is nothing we can do. As Bryan said, it's a battle between Kai and himself. We shouldn't meddle… Besides, no one should ever try to meddle with Kai. For he only brings pain and loss. If you care about Kai then you should better leave him alone instead of becoming another soul that is spoiled by his doing."

Ian was left utterly speechless after that.

He was still breathing…

There was no sudden pain…

Bryan hesitantly opened his eyes that he had closed unconsciously as the knife approached him rapidly…

And was met by the consuming fires of Kai's blood-red orbs mere inches from his face like the pits of hell that had come out the haunt the earth.

'The blade missed me!' He thought frantically and looked sideways to find the blade imbedded in the floor right next to his face. 'He missed me on purpose, the bastard. Why did he? Why did he spare me? Out of pity?... '

He deliberately avoided looking in the enigmatic depths of his enemy.

'I resent him. I do NOT need pity from anyone!' thought furiously and clenched his fist, nails digging in his skin.

"Our match is over" Kai stated softly but strongly at the same time.

"Only for now." The lilac-haired blader muttered heatedly but kept his eyes downcast.

"As you wish." The stoic teen replied indifferently, removed his hold on Bryan and exited the room swiftly.

"Damn you Hiwatari!" Bryan cursed defeated, staring his warped reflection in the gleaming blade of his blood coated knife.

Boris looked up from his papers when the pale person entered his study after knocking. His eyes took in the beautiful abused, lithe body that was wholly his property… marked by the trademark blue triangles.

"You're late." He stated disgruntled and looked back at his papers, leaving Kai waiting by the door.

Silence reigned for a couple more minutes while Boris continued to scribble down some notes.

"Well… What are you waiting for? Close the door and wait there." The elder man indicated a lush velvet chair by the bed… Lush crimson velvet, the same colour as the scarlet depths that eyed the chair uncomfortably as the teen sat down with precision.

Kai took the time he was given to examine the room he was in. Yes, he had been here before… not quite as often as one would suppose but a few times none the less. Yet due to certain circumstances he never actually looked at the room.

He fingered the soft fabric under his hand quite nervously… and deliberately avoided looking at the despicable man behind the desk. How easy it would be to take the paperknife on the desk and slam the cold blade into the weak flesh of his red neck.

Or even simpler, he could strangle the mentor and be rid of him once and for all. But he resented the mere thought of having to touch Boris' flesh… as he had felt it already much more than he would've liked to. Much more than the amount that would've been bearable for anyone.

His crimson eyes travelled further across the room and came to rest upon the bed.

Ancient, dark wood and curtains the same fabric as the chair he was sitting in. The thick pillows would be ideal to restrict any breath that tried to pass the silky barrier when firmly pushed upon one's mouth.

A hurried movement of a wrinkled hand crushing a single paper, throwing it in the waste bin and taking a new paper to continue the restless scribbling.

The slate-haired teen stared at the greying hair that was just visible above the high ridge of the chair. Something hard… Blunt…

His eyes fell upon the silver candleholder the table next to him. Perfect! Heavy, easy to handle and Boris could be contented to be murdered with style. He would even mark the killing as his own.

Red blood…

Red as his eyes. Red as the blood that had been spilled by the director on the amount of too many innocent children. Red like the fabric of the chair he was sitting in…

Combined with the cold silver was near perfection. After al he was the perfection according to the old man.

Cold… Grey almost blue like his unruly tresses that had been tainted too many times. Cold like his exterior, like the mask that was seldom put aside.

Still Boris continued writing as if he couldn't be harmed.

Why not do it? He would free hundredths of children from at least a part of the nightmare which they were living. He would be able to spare some of the faith that had been bestowed upon him. He could save Tala.No matter how many altruistic reasons he came up with, He was still aware of the most important one…

He could play the fairytale hero, sacrificing himself to help the weaker…

But he wasn't illusional.

By killing Boris he might condemn himself to a horrific faith but nothing could scare him. He was too far gone, He had nothing to lose.

The faces of Rei, Tala, his friends flashed in front of his ruby eyes. He couldn't save all of them. By merely living his life he only made it worse.

In the end he remained selfish.

After all why did he so desperately want so save Rei? Wasn't it because he, Kai, loved the amber-eyed neko-jin? All of his actions relate to only one person…Him.

One last glance at the graying scalp before he made up his mind. No more hesitation He reached for the candleholder as he continued to watch the elder man warily… In a few moments this would all be over for him.

It was an easy death…Boris would never pay for the crimes he committed during his lifetime but at least the Abbey would no longer have to think about him. He weighed the solid object in his pale trembling hand. Why was he trembling? He didn't know.

Silently he straightened his back. Training hadn't been useless, he knew perfectly well how to move without making the slightest sound.

"I guess you wonder why I let you come here… waiting."

Kai froze as the loathsome man put away his pencils and slowly started to turn around. 'This was the time, it had to happen now!' Kai's thoughts screamed in his head.

"Don't be stupid and put that where you found it young Kai… and sit down." Boris grumbled but a satisfied edge crept trough his dark voice.

Without understanding why, the slate-haired teen couldn't help but to obey the order and stared confused at the man in front of him.

"You thought you would be freed of me once I was dead? Did you really?"

Kai couldn't say a word, couldn't utter a sound as Boris shook his head in malicious humour.

"You will never escape me, when will you finally understand that? This quarter is under permanent surveillance and the right people know what is going on in here." He chuckled as he saw the blanc look that the crimson-eyed gave him. "Yes your beloved grand-father knows but I guess you had already figured out that much. But that doesn't bother you much… as long as your 'life' remains secret for the rest of the world. The image of the almighty Kai must remain intact isn't it?" Boris continued pleasantly as he opened a cabinet in the wooden panelled wall. A sly smirk adorned his thin lips as a black screen appeared.

"You didn't think I would part from you, how small the amount of time it might have been, without any remembrance, if I might put it that way, of you?" The screen lightened up and despite himself, Kai found his crimson eyes staring intensely at the image that slowly started to appear.

He younger, a genuine smile still on his face as he talked to his mum. He had to restrain himself from reaching out to the happy photo.

"Still so young. Pity she died a few years later. But it was for a greater good. After all, she only was a nuisance that you had to overcome." The grey-haired man commented matter-of-factly.

Another picture… the same boy, smiling but the stars in his eyes had diminished if knew where to look. Kai knew… and so did Boris. Yet the small delicate face remained innocent and full of hope. Dank grey walls surrounded the child and the older boy that held him close. But the joy of laughter was evident on their faces, tangible as if one could grasp it if you tried hard enough.

As the images continued to stream by in front of his eyes, they became less innocent. The face smiled no longer, pale skin was marred with scars and bruises… and crimson blood.

"Beautiful aren't they? And the best are yet to come… the ones I treasure the most." Boris said nonchalantly.

Kai knew his eyes widened as he clenched the armrest at the following scene. A small boy from about nine years old, to his dismay Kai immediately recognized his own abused frame. The boy seemed to be horrified as he tried to crawl backwards on the hard stone floor. The next photo showed the same child, this time naked and bleeding.

The photos kept coming, new each time. The slate-haired teen could close his eyes for the horrific scenes displayed in front of his crimson eyes, but they appeared transfixed and he couldn't tear his gaze away.

"I keep the originals safe, locked away so don't even think you're able to destroy them somehow. I've only made one mistake back then… I love those photos but I'll never forget the shrill sound of your voice. Nearly broken, ah so beautiful! I've found a way to conserve that lovely sound. I made sure that the first time after all those years would never be lost." The despicable elder man concluded as the images on the screen faded to black.

Kai feared what would come next. One time was bad enough, he didn't know if he would be able to experience it again… even as a mere witness. The screen lit up once more and a familiar grey cell doomed up… In the corner of the view was a metal ring in the floor visible. Kai couldn't breathe, as though someone was chocking him.

"I taped everything, even the part where you eh… decided to struggle against me… You lost in the end anyway." Boris spoke calmly. His tone wasn't mocking or malicious but oddly enough as if he was merely announced the weather.

Crimson orbs were still fixed on the screen. He didn't know what would've been worse. The taunting or this… deprivation of feelings.

"But we don't have time to watch I'm afraid." The elder man announced leisurely. Kai whirled around in confusion. "I didn't ask you to come back just for this." Boris paused to look at the slate-haired blader. "No, I had something better in mind." He said idly while he closed the cabinet again and glanced at the luxurious bed.

"Put of your clothes and get in bed. It's time we changed the décor of our usual meetings. Now we can really celebrate our re-unation in style. I never felt much for the cold dank cells but at that time it was necessarily… But from on we're past all that. We've both gotten older." The loathsome man turned around to watch the seemingly frozen scarlet-eyed teen. "What are you waiting for Young Kai? Hurry up and get into bed, I'll join you in a minute or two." Boris ordered.

Kai forced his body to move. Thoughtlessly he began to remove his clothes. He didn't want to think about what was happening but thoughts kept spinning through his head.

The photographs… if anyone he knew saw them…

'Hm…'

Utter darkness ruled his thoughts as he slowly and gradually regained consciousness. He couldn't think of anything, for the pain claimed his complete attention. He felt as if he had been run over y a train…twice.

He felt horrible.

Yet he knew that there was something important he was forgetting about. It was just out of his reach.

Slowly he started to realize somebody was sitting at his side. No, there were several people… whispering softly to each other. He couldn't quite understand what they were saying and he didn't care to listen more closely. That is, until a name came to his attention.

A simple short name that had been the cause of the latest… disorder…in the Abbey, in his life.

Kai

Memories rushed back and he remembered what had happened the last day and more important, the last hours. The haunted look in those crimson orbs… Those eyes had always fascinated him in the past but now they held a deeper meaning. He still couldn't understand how it had been possible but he hadn't noticed before…

OR

Had he simply refused to acknowledge the signs he had unconsciously perceived?

Yes, he realized now that he had known there was something rum going on since Kai had returned. Mentally cursing himself he thought back to the entrancing depths of enigma.

His own ice-blue eyes could freeze his opponent with an impressive glare, he was aware of that. But Kai's eyes… their colour changed drastically, depending on his mood. From deep blood-red to scarlet… even to a violent violet.

But more curious was their variable intensity. They could warm your heart, however rare that occasion may be. And they could burn hot as molten lava or the fire of a phoenix. All still understandable some way, he knew the slate-haired teen was very close connected to Dranzer comparable to his connection with Wolborg. Hence the force of Fire and Ice.

But as far as he remembered, he had only witnessed it once… Kai's gaze could freeze your insides to a point where you couldn't suppress the shivers wracking your body. That day he had seen a glimpse of the true power that Kai always hid so well behind his cold mask… He wondered if he would ever see it again.

He turned his attention back to the conversation that was held beside him and noted the pain had diminished noticeably.

"…must be in trouble…"

What were they talking about… or rather who?

"Served him right…"

That was Bryan and they were talking about Kai… who else? What a stupid question!

"…went straight through…madness…"

That was Ian… but what did he mean by that sentence? The more he listened to the conversation, the more he started to understand what had happened… at least the larger lines of it. Bryan had fought Kai… He had expected such a thing.

Bryan cared a lot about him, and that combined with his rather aggressive temperament was bound to lead to such a confrontation. That Kai had come out as the victor was no surprise, he had anticipated no less from the crimson-eyed blader. Even more so when you realized what Kai had gone through during his stay in the Abbey.

So Bryan had been right all along… However, Tala couldn't imagine Kai did… it out of free will. Boris must have something to persuade Kai. If only he knew what. He decided he had faked unconsciousness long enough… Especially since Ian started to freak out and the two other bladers did nothing to help that.

Quite the contrary.

Internally sighing, Tala opened his eyes and took in the sight that greeted him. Bryan sat right next to him and was arguing heatedly with Ian. The small blader had a frightened expression and was wringing his hands nervously. Spencer was stoic as ever and was the first to notice Tala's awaken.

"How do you feel Tala?" he asked softly and concerned.

Bryan and Ian promptly fell silent. The red-haired teen managed a small smile.

"Feel like I've just died but apart from that… I'll live." He said softly

Immediately Bryan was all over him. "Do you need a painkiller… something to drink perhaps?" the lilac-haired teen rambled on.

"Relax Bryan… I'll be alright. If you could just bring me a glass of water?" the redhead asked gently, his eyes intent on said blader.

"Directly Tala, I'll be right back." Bryan promised and nearly ran off to fetch a glass of water. Tala turned to the two remaining bladers.

"You two alright?" he inquired concerned. Spencer simply nodded but Ian stared mute at the floor. "What is it Ian?" the redhead asked directly. He knew Ian would otherwise never tell what was on his mind.

"Kai brought you in and you were both so bloodied… you were covered with wounds and.. And I thought you were going to die." The small blader admitted embarrassed.

"But I'm still alive aren't I? so that's no longer a problem is it? Something else is on your mind." Tala probed carefully. If Ian didn't spit it out now, he would keep thinking of it and in the end it would affect his abilities… 'Ah What a captain doesn't have to do for his team.' Tala mused while looking closely at the smaller teen.

"Bryan wanted to fight Kai… Kai didn't seem too keen on it but gave in eventually. He defeated Bryan fair and square and brought him to the ground and then…" Ian looked up to meet Tala's ice-blue eyes. "He slashed a hidden knife in Kai's legs." He finished and paused.

Tala hid his surprise and anger. When would Bryan learn to play fair? He would've to talk to him about this later on. "Go on, what happened next?" Tala tried to sit up straight but he soon decided it wasn't worth the pain.

While Ian hesitated to tell the end of the confrontation, Spencer came up to the make-shift bed Tala was lying on, and pushed another pillow behind the redhead's back so he could face the small teen more easily. Tala smiled gratefully at his stoic companion and redirected his attention back to Ian when the blader continued his story.

"Nothing"

Tala furrowed his brows non comprehending.

"Kai didn't even look surprised… He just yanked the knife out his leg and - "

" – Nearly planted it in my face, missing it barely." Bryan continued monotone.

The lilac-haired Russian had entered the room during Ian's tale, without any of them noticing. Perhaps Spencer had, but he never said much.

Ian jumped back in surprise, hiding behind Spencer's broad back. Tala however showed no sign of surprise or whatever emotion. His expression hadn't changed.

"How do you know these things so well Ian? Hadn't I asked you to take care of Tala back then? So where did you find the time to come and watch?" Bryan asked, no… commanded angrily, the glass of water in his hand forgotten.

"Please Bryan – I…" Ian stuttered nervously.

"It's ok Ian. Could you and Spencer please leave, so me and Bryan can have a chat." The ice-blue eyed captain asked gently.

Ian nodded hesitantly after taking one fearful look at Bryan, and was led out the door by Spencer.

Silence fell and Bryan set himself briskly on a chair. After a few minutes, the lilac-haired teen decided it had been long enough.

"So, what did you want to talk about?" Bryan asked impatiently. "Let me guess,… Kai?" he continued savagely.

Tala gave him a stern look. "Very good Bry… Why did you ask if you already knew it already?" The redhead said not so amiably as usually.

Bryan crossed his arms defiantly. "He deserved it. He hurt you Tala, you could have been dead. And he didn't even deny it. Like it was just normal." The pale-eyed blader raged scornfully.

Tala sighed. "I don't blame Kai. He did it so - " He stopped. ' – so Boris wouldn't rape me like he had done to Kai.' He finished in his thoughts, realizing he shouldn't tell that to Bryan. Seeing his protective attitude concerning him, he had no idea what Bryan would try to do to Boris. Nor what Boris would do to Bryan.

"He did it so…" The lilac-haired teen enquired expectantly.

"Never mind Bryan… Just don't attack him again. Leave him alone. He has enough troubles to deal with." Tala said warningly.

"Like his dealings whit Boris you mean." Bryan snorted derisively.

"You have no idea, so don't talk about it!" Tala sighed annoyed. "Just think about it. And try to see the signals you overlooked." He stood up and walked to the door.

"Tala!"

Ignoring Bryan's outcall, he left the room with a confused behind.

-to be continued-

Situation: Lhune still behind Kana's back: Kai shocked.

Rei:why Aren't I in it? Why does Tala get to spend time with Kai?

Tala:Hey I didn't see him this time/defensively/

Rei:doesn't matter… don't even think you can get Kai. He's mine.

Tala:Yours… eh you sound like Boris.

Lhune/over Kana's shoulder/ didn't you two listen to Kai's words earlier on?

Rei:Shut up! You're the one that did this to him! (and to us!) /angry/

Lhune/back to hiding behind Kana/

Bryan: Why did I look like the bad guy?

Lhune and Kana:…/silence/… eh well…

Bryan:It's obvious that Kai is the bad one.

Kai:I am what/finally getting out of his daze/

Bryan:The bad one of course.

Everybody else/sweatdrop/

Kai/shrugs/ Whatever, never try to argue with morons… shame of energy waste.

Tala:Bry.. I swear one day I'm gonna kill you.

Rei:Oooh violent love. /grins/

Lhune/start edging away/

Kai:Hold it! (Lhune freezes) What gives you the right to do this to me?

Lhune:Ehm… I'm the author.

Kai:and?

Lhune That's it?

Kai:That's no excuse.

Lhune:I'm sorry but that's all I can say.

Kai:You're excused for now.. as long as you make it a happy ending!

Lhune:I promise I will…

And here are the important notes, short so it won't take much of your time.

I'm currently writing this story all by myself, for quite a long time in fact.

Kana has her own account You find her under the name Thin-K

Do you guys prefer me mentioning other language like I did in the first chapters or is just plain English better? As it is now.

In this chapter as well as in chapter 8 I believe, there are some hints for next chapter… just to let you, I wonder if anyone will notice.

I don't understand the use of communities right now. Why not comms for the different pairings and the dark or the feel-good stories?

Hope you can help me out.

Lhune