Hi everyone! It is time for a new chapter and this one is rather long, but at least it does have some action in it. Just a slight warning, there will be a little bit of violence in this one, but luckily nothing too much, or at least I hope it is not too much; just a few sentences.

I have also finally finished chapter 28 on which I have been stuck for so long; I was just too occupied with other stuff, and I really hope to have this story finished in at least 30 chapters, I may just push it to 31, but I will see, so I am almost there.

As usual, enjoy it, and thanks again to all those who read it. Just the thought of there at least being some people reading it brings joy to my heart as I am sure it does to so many other writers. On with the story!

Chapter 20 – The warmth that left my heart

It is a chilly night, the brutal Russian winter coming closer and closer. Tala is driving around the city with no specific destination in mind. Brooklyn's words kept going through his mind, over and over again; the fact that his best friend is pure evil stings deep within his heart. He always knew Kai was cruel and bad but he never thought it will be like this. He misses his best friend, his partner in crime. The X-twins are temporarily old news; the police are still out looking for Kai. Everyone has changed their opinion about their favourite blader after it became world news that Kai has killed innocent people when he escaped from the hospital. Their friends are all were worried and scared about their friend, worried of what the authorities might do to Kai. Tala knows that Kai will not go down without a fight; it is not in his nature to do something like that and that scares him the most. Kai is brutal by nature but with these new developments, no one stands a chance against Kai, not even Tala himself will be able to win against Kai.

The past few days Tala could not shake the feeling that he was being watched. Somehow he knew it might be Kai; a part of him was thrilled knowing that his best friend has not forgotten him yet, but then, another part of him is scared shitless, wondering why Kai is watching him. Tala has no doubt in his mind now that Kai will not even think twice of killing him or his other friends. It is a matter of only `when`, instead of `if`. Tala started thinking of Cindy. She has been very distant since Kai escaped from the hospital. Everyone has tried to approach Cindy and tried to make her open up a bit, but she just shuts everyone out. It is rather a strange behaviour for Cindy. Usually whenever she does not feel like her old self, she usually talks to Solange, but not even her best friend could manage to get Cindy to talk. During the day Cindy disappears with little Ciara and according to Solange and the others, Cindy retires to bed early with Ciara, locking her bedroom door. Maybe it is just her way of coming to grips with what has happened to Kai. No one has mentioned anything to Cindy about what Brooklyn has told them about Kai, and Tala seriously doubts anything will good come off of it if she does find out; it will completely shatter her world.

Tala continued riding, lost in his own thoughts when his phone rang. He did not recognise the number. "Tala speaking?"

"Tomorrow, six PM at our warehouse where we keep our weapons. Tell no one, Tala." And then the line went dead.

"Kai?" Tala suddenly felt a chill run down all along his spine. 'That was without a doubt Kai. Why meet at the warehouse? Unless...shit. I really hope he does not intend on killing me. Get a grip Tala. If Kai wanted to kill you he would have done it already, but then again, why should I not tell anyone?' Tala then hit his own forehead. 'Idiot. You are meeting him where we hide the killing weapons and bikes, of course I cannot dare to tell anyone. Just imagine that shit blowing up. I just have to calm down and get my head clear. This is what I wanted right? I wanted my best friend to contact me but now that he has, I am not feeling all that happy as I thought I would have; instead, I feel an incredible dreadful feeling in the pit of my stomach, like something horrible is going to happen. Maybe I should contact the other guys. I won't mention anything but just hearing them will put my mind at ease.' Tala again took his phone in his hand and first called Bryan's phone but no answer; the same with Spencer and Ian. Tala could not help but start to panic a bit. He called their houses and everyone who answered said that they have left earlier the day and still has not returned. Now Tala was really starting to panic; this is not normal. He has learned to trust his sixth sense, not that he is gay or anything, but there is nothing wrong with a guy also sensing that something is not right. 'Please don't let it be what I think it is, please, please. Whatever high power is listening to me, please don't let Kai have Bryan, Spencer and Ian, please.' Tala decided to go back home before he gets in a car crash for not focusing on the road.

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A new day was beginning and the Bladebreakers along with Hilary were in the study. Hilary was keeping a watch over them as they were doing their tests. Ray and Tyson were busy with a science test; Max was busy with a biology one and Kenny was busy with an advanced math test. Hilary has been an excellent tutor so far and despite Tyson constantly rebelling against her teaching techniques, they all have learned a lot from Hilary and the proof is in the test results. They all have improved a lot, except for Kenny who is already a very smart boy. Despite Hilary and Tyson fighting all the time, the two have grown quite close, even developed some romantically feelings towards each other but they both are too stubborn to admit it to themselves. Ray and Max want to start playing matchmakers as soon as their exams are over. They figure that Tyson and Hilary will make a great couple seeing as both are hot-tempered and strong willed.

Ray was the first to finish his test and lucky for him, he was excused from the study to go and do something else. Ray went to the kitchen and was very relieved to see his sister there. His heart was breaking for his sister, seeing how she was going through all of this alone. Cindy looked up and gave a small smile to her brother when she saw it was him. "How you doing sis? We live under the same roof but I never see you."

Cindy just looked at Ray and he could clearly see the sadness in her eyes. "I miss him, that's just all."

Ray pulled his sister into a tight embrace and just held her tight. He could clearly feel the front of his shirt becoming a little bit wet, clearly the tears coming from Cindy as she silently cried on Ray's chest. "I just wish everything could have been the way it was, we all here, happy, looking forward to the future, our wedding, everything. Not this crap we are stuck with currently."

"I know sis, it also pains me knowing how much Kai has changed. We all have lost a very special person to us all. Kai may be alive but at the same time, he is also not alive anymore, well, at least not the Kai we knew."

'If only you knew how right you are, my brother,' Cindy thought to herself. Cindy pulled away from her brother and wiped away her tears. "What do you say, the two of us with my adorable baby girl, go to the park and you teach me how to blade?"

"Are you sure?"

"Of course; I have been withdrawn from you all for way too long and it is time I get myself together. You all have lost someone, not just me, so it is just selfish of me to think I can go through this alone."

"That's the spirit!" Ray hugged his sister again and then released her after holding her tight for a few seconds.

"I'll go get Ciara's stuff ready and meet you at the door in about a few minutes time."

"Cool."

Ray watched his sister leave the kitchen and then removed his blade from his pocket to look at it but was shocked of what he saw. "What the...?! Driger is gone!" Without thinking twice, Ray burst into the study, not caring that he was interrupting their tests. "Driger is gone!"

"What?"

"He is gone Tyson, like in, my bit chip is blank!" Just then Max and Tyson also reached for their blades and they too were greeted with the same thing.

"Hey, what is going on?! Dragoon!"

"Guys, what the hell is going on? Our bit beasts can't just disappear like that! Kenny?"

"Guys, I honestly do not know what to say. I have never heard of anything like this."

Hilary was clearly not in the same mood as the boys and made it very clear. "In case you have forgotten, you guys are officially busy with your tests and this interruption will not be tolerated. You can worry later about your bit-thingies."

"Not now Hilary, this is much more important than those stupid papers."

"Excuse me?!" Hilary placed her hands on her hips and was getting ready to scold Tyson for all that he is worth when Cindy came walking in with Ciara in her arms.

"What is going on? I heard you all from upstairs."

"Our bit-beasts are gone."

"What do you mean gone?"

"As in, out of our blades and we have no idea where they are or why they are gone in the first place."

"Won't Tala be able to help you guys with it; I mean he also has one of those beasts."

"Great idea. I'll go call him now!"

"Excuse me, what about your tests?"

"Reign check Hilary, sorry." Hilary just sighed and mumbled a `whatever` and just received a look of pity from Cindy.

"It really must be exhausting with all those teenage boys."

"You have no idea."

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Tala was at his brother's office when his phone rang and saw it was the Hiwatari mansion. "Tala."

"Tala, it's Tyson; we have a problem."

"I'm doing great, thanks for asking Tyson."

"Yeah whatever, look, our bit-beasts are gone Tala." This immediately caught Tala's attention.

"Are you sure?"

"Positive. Mine, Ray and Max's bit-beasts are gone, their bit chips are all blank."

"Okay look, I don't have Wolborg with me right now but as soon as I arrive at home, I will give you a call on whether I still have mine."

"Thanks Tala."

"Just relax Tyson, okay?"

"Sure, I will try."

"Good." They hung up and then Tala got up. "I have to go but I believe you have all the necessary information."

"Yeah and you know that I will carry it out exactly as you want it."

"I know that is why I don't trust anyone else, but yeah, thanks big bro. See you later."

"See you." Tala left and rushed for his house.

He too, saw that his Wolborg was gone. Contacting Bryan and the others will not help, seeing as he has not been able to reach them since the previous day. All these things feels very wrong to him, like everything is fitting together and will only lead to disaster, of that he is very sure. In a couple of hours he has to leave to go and meet Kai and he is certain that it will not be going smoothly. Tala called Tyson and told him that his Wolborg is also gone. In the meantime, Kenny has contacted some other bladers that they have met and befriended on the tournament and it seems that all of them are also missing their bit-beasts. This just confirms to Tala that something is coming and it is not going to be pretty.

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Tala arrived at the warehouse that is situated on the outskirts of the city but he could not spot any other vehicle. He slowly made his way into the warehouse where it was completely dark and seeing as winter is approaching, the sun sets much earlier than usual and by now the sun has already set. "Kai!"

"It's so nice of you to grace us with your presence, Tala."

'Us? What the hell does he mean by `us`?' Tala walked in deeper into the warehouse. "Come on Kai, quit playing games. Put on the lights."

"Very well." Just then the lights went on and Tala had to fight with all his self-control to keep himself calm of what he saw. In the middle of the room was Kai but he was not alone. Tied up in chairs were his three friends that he has been trying to contact since the previous day. Bryan, Spencer and Ian were all tied up, with their mouths covered with duck tape.

"What is the meaning of this Kai?"

"Come closer Tala, why stand so far away? Aren't we all your friends?"

"Let them go Kai, please, you don't want to do this."

"And what is it exactly you think that I want to do?"

"Kai, please." Tala slowly walked closer and he could finally see the new Kai. He was more muscular and toned, with his black triangles tattoos covering his cheeks, with his new hair colour and with his blood coloured eyes with a very clear red glint in them. Kai was totally dressed in black. Tala did not notice it earlier but once he did, he could not help but feel a sudden cold rush go through his body and his stomach clenching until the point of it becoming painful, for Kai was holding his axe in his hand. His three friends did not look scared which he was thankful for, and neither did they squirm. Kai was smirking as Tala walked closer until he finally came to a standstill just a few feet away from Kai.

"Please let them go Kai."

"Why? They are my friends too you know."

"Please Kai, just let them go and then we can help you with whatever you are going through."

Kai started to laugh a very sadistic laugh. "Help me? Help me with what? This is who I am Tala, the real me." Kai walked to Bryan and then yanked his head back when he pulled tightly on the silver-haired Russian's hair. "Bryan, do you know what Tala and I did for fun?"

"Kai, don't."

"Why not Tala? They are your friends and I think they deserve the truth." Kai placed his axe next to Bryan's throat. "Do you know how many people I have killed, decapitated, with this very same axe?" Bryan's eyes grew wide as he realised just exactly what Kai meant by that. "Yes my dear old friend, Tala and I are the famous X-twins, such a shame that it all had to come to an end, seeing as I have a new mission to do, but more of that later on." Kai removed the axe from Bryan's neck and then went to stand right in front of Tala. "We had some good times, all that blood, innocent blood, that we spilled on the streets of Moscow." Spencer and Ian also looked very shocked at what Kai has revealed. Tala clearly looked pissed. "Why so angry Tala? You should be proud that our friends know who the legendary X-twins really are."

"What are you doing Kai?"

"Sending a message."

"And what message is that?"

Within a matter of seconds, without blinking, Kai swung his axe effortlessly and decapitated Ian. "That the Kai you all knew is dead and that his darker version is here to stay and to take his rightful place in this world." Bryan and Spencer's muffled screams filled the warehouse as Ian's head rolled away from his body. Tala was so shocked he could not move or speak. "I never really liked that idiot; he was just too annoying. As for you others, I am still pondering with the idea of killing you or not. What do you say Tala, or do you also want to have a swing at them? Your axe is there in the safe." Tala was still too shocked to move. "Oh well, I'll take that as a no." The next person who was decapitated was Spencer.

"Kai stop!" Tala lunged himself at Kai but he was just too slow. Kai just simply stepped out of the way and hit Tala over the head, leaving the red head unconscious on the ground. Bryan just sat quietly, watching as Kai was making his way over to him, swinging his axe from side to side. "Next to Tala, you were my next favourite person but unfortunately I don't feel the need to have friends around in my new life so, see you Bryan, nice knowing you." And then it was over with just one swing of Kai's axe. Bryan's head also just rolled around on the ground. Tala was still unconscious on the floor. Kai looked at Tala and smirked to himself and then just left, leaving his three headless friends' bodies. 'Tala will have quite some gruesome things to wake up to when he gains consciousness.'

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Solange, with the rest of the Bladebreakers and Cindy, were all sitting in the kitchen, eating ice-cream. It is quarter to ten the evening and the weather is already chilly but clearly not chilly enough to not eat something cold. Kenny has managed to contact all bladers that have bit-beasts, and just like Tyson and the others, all of them are missing their bit-beasts.

"What do you think chief, any theory on it?"

"Well, I did do some research and all I could find out was some stories, legends, where they spoke of many evils that tried to take over the earth in the time the sacred spirits still ruled over earth, and whenever something like that happened, all sacred spirits joined forces to destroy whatever evil presence was threatening their planet; whether they are true, I have no idea but so far that is the only thing that makes sense."

"Okay, maybe, but what evil presence, unless..." Ray looked at everyone and they all secretly knew what he meant by his silence, all except Cindy.

"Unless what Ray?"

"Black Dranzer."

Cindy's breath got caught in her throat. 'How do they know of Black Dranzer?' Cindy knew if she decides to speak of Black Dranzer as if she knows of it, they will ask questions and there is no way she is going to tell them that she has been secretly seeing Kai, so the best is to act clueless. "Black Dranzer? What is that?"

"Err...guys?"

"I'll tell her Ray." All attention turned to Solange as she decided that she will be the one to tell Cindy of what they heard from Brooklyn but just as she was about to start to talk, Tala came staggering into the kitchen, covered in blood. "Tala!" Solange immediately rushed to him and the moment she embraced him, he collapsed to his knees where he started to sob, a shocking occurrence to the other teenage boys being present. "Tala, what happened? Please baby, where are you bleeding?"

"He...he killed them Solange, all...all of them." Tears streamed from Tala's eyes, leaving everyone even more confused.

"Who baby, who killed who?" Tala clutched tightly onto Solange's shirt as he continued to sob. Tyson and the others had no idea how to react because they have never seen the mighty and powerful Tala in such a fragile condition. It was just too much for them to take.

After leaving Tala for a few minutes to just cry, he finally managed to pull himself together. He took a seat at the counter with Solange placing a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "Kai, he killed Bryan, Spencer and Ian without showing any sign of remorse." Everyone gasped at this.

"You...you can't be serious, please tell me it is not true."

"Sorry Tyson but it is. Kai is a heartless killer and we will never get the old Kai back, he is dead and the faster we accept that, the faster we can find a way to kill him."

"What?! How can you talk about your friend like that Tala?!'' Cindy was furious at what Tala just said but so was he because he flew up and grabbed Cindy by the shoulders and started to shake her lightly.

"Kai is dead, Cindy! Accept it! Whoever this is, it is not the Kai we all learned to know and love! Open your eyes Cindy, he is dead and this new Kai is a killer, an evil being that has to be destroyed!"

"Let go me Tala!"

"No, not until you face reality Cindy! Kai has to be killed, destroyed, because if we don't, he will continue killing everyone and destroy everything we ever knew!"

"Tala please, let me go!"

"No, please Cindy, you..."

"Let. Her. Go." The voice that spoke sent shivers through out everyone and no one had to turn to the voice to see who it was. Kai was standing in the doorway, looking furious and the red glint in his eye was much stronger than earlier the evening. "Now Tala." Tala finally released Cindy and then everyone turned to face Kai and gasped at the new and darker version of Kai.

Cindy was the only one that was not shocked; in fact, she was pissed at Kai. "You killed your friends?! What the hell Kai?!" Kai just looked at her with no expression on his face. "You know what, screw you Kai." Cindy stalked past Kai but he grabbed her by her arm. "Let go, now." Cindy said in a very threatening voice and just glared at Kai, leaving everyone else with another shock, as how can she act like this towards Kai when she has just found out he killed his friends. "I said let go!" Cindy yanked her arm from Kai's grip, still glaring at him.

"We will talk about this."

"Go to hell." Without saying anything else, Cindy stumped her way up the stairs.

Kai turned his attention to everyone else in the kitchen, looking at them all with a sinister look in his eyes. They all struggled to take in the new look, the new Kai. "What, no greetings to your old friend?" even his voice sounded sinister, and at the same time, very mocking.

"You have some nerve showing your face here Kai, after all you have done."

"And what would that be Tyson?"

"You killed people, innocent people, you heartless bastard!"

"If you don't watch your mouth boy, you will be next."

"I am not scared of you! You are a..."

"Tyson!" Tyson could not finish his sentence because Kai grabbed Tyson by the throat in a split second, lifting him up into the air, leaving his feet dangling in the air. "Kai, please, let him go." Kai paid no attention to his sister's pleading and started pressing on Tyson's airway, all while smirking.

"You are so annoying and that big mouth of yours, it will be the death of you very soon." Tyson started chocking but still Kai pressed tighter and tighter. "Nothing will bring me greater pleasure than to rip your airway right out of your throat but, unfortunately, that will have to wait for another day." Kai tossed the half unconscious Tyson right across the room, sending him hard into the wall which knocked him out totally. Max, Ray, Kenny and Hilary rushed to his side, leaving Solange and Tala to face Kai alone. Kai just smirked at the remaining two people. "What, no hug for your dear twin brother?"

"You are not my brother."

"What is with everyone, why do you all keep thinking that I am not Kai? Of course it is me, who else will it be?"

"My brother will never kill innocent people." Kai suddenly burst out in laughter and it was a sinister laugh. Kai could not stop laughing and even started to clutch his stomach. The others did not know what to make of the whole situation. Finally Kai managed to compose himself, but only just. "You crack me up, sis. You think you know me, the old me? You think the old me didn't kill innocent people? You have no idea what I did, just ask your boyfriend." Kai turned his attention to Tala and the red head knew what Kai was referring to. "Isn't that right Tala, and don't pretend like you don't know what I am talking about. We worked side by side after all."

"What is he talking about Tala?" Tala did not answer Solange and just glared, with hatred in his eyes, at Kai. Kai just smirked at him, knowing that Tala will not admit that he is one of the X-twins. "Tala?"

"Nothing Solange." Tala sounded pissed and snapped at Solange.

"Don't snap at me, now answer me, what is my brother talking about?!"

"Well, while you two have a lovers' quarrel, I have some unfinished business. Carry on with whatever pathetic things you were busy with, oh, and one more thing, if Tyson dares to say anything to me again, I will rip his jaws apart and make sure to tell him that when he wakes up." Kai left the kitchen, everyone still in shock. Solange was confused at what Kai said about him and Tala and Tala's attitude just added to her confusion.

Kai made his way upstairs and when he entered his and Cindy's bedroom, he saw that she was busy packing her clothes. She saw him at the doorway but just ignored him and continued with her packing. "What are you doing?"

"What does it look like? I'm leaving this awful place. I am taking my daughter and getting the hell out of here, far away from you." Kai approached Cindy and took hold of her wrist. "Let go of me, Kai."

"You are not taking our daughter anywhere, and neither are you going anywhere."

"You are not the boss of me. Now let go." Cindy managed to remove her wrist from Kai's hold and immediately shoved him away from her the moment she was released from him. Kai staggered back a bit but quickly regained his composure. "Don't you dare lay a hand on me again Kai Hiwatari." Cindy sounded very pissed and Kai could not help but get turned on by her feistiness but he knew now was not the ideal moment to get horny.

"Don't push me again."

"Or what?! You going to kill me like you killed your friends, like you killed those people at the hospital?!" Kai just glared at Cindy, not saying anything. "I am taking my daughter and we are getting away from here as far as possible and don't you even dare think of following us, because I will unleash hell on you Kai. You may be all dark and evil and powerful, but nothing compares to a mother protecting her young."

"How can you even think that I will harm you and Ciara?"

"How can I not think it, Kai?! You killed three of your friends for goodness' sake! You guys were close friends and you just killed them, removing them from life like they were just mere cockroaches you were exterminating, so what is to say that you will not do the same to both me and your daughter? Buy yeah, whatever, if you don't mind, I would like to finish packing so that I can get out of here."

Cindy turned around to go back to her closet to fetch more clothes but that is when Kai snapped. He took hold of Cindy by her left upper arm which was a wrong move on his part, for Cindy immediately retaliated where she grabbed hold of his neck with her free hand and started clenching her hand. The two glared at each other but neither was submitting to the other; Kai could feel his airways beginning to tighten under Cindy's grip but he will not show her weakness. He could see in her eyes that she was serious about what she said and the look in her eye reminded him of when a tiger gets ready to attack and kill its prey, and right now he felt like her prey as she continued tightening her grip on his neck. He knows Cindy will only release when he releases her arm, but who knows what she will to do to him once he lets go of her.

'Ah, what the hell, I would much rather prefer her kicking my ass, as to me fainting like a weak ass just because she closed off my airways.' Kai finally released his grip on Cindy's arm and he thought that she would do the same but he was sadly mistaken. A sneer appeared on her face and she increased her pressure and Kai started to choke. He took hold of her wrist with both of his hands but was shocked at how strong his fiancée really was. Kai could feel he was becoming light headed but somehow could not manage to pry Cindy's hands from his neck, despite him using both his hands, and Cindy only using one hand. The sneer remained on her face.

"What's the matter, my love? Feeling a little light headed? Just a bit longer and I might succeed in killing the all powerful Kai Hiwatari. What joy that would bring to the world." Kai could not help but flinch at what Cindy just said. Who is this person in front of him? Surely this can't be the woman he loves, or is he the one that has changed her so much? No, that can't be it. She is just a mother doing whatever is necessary to protect her child. Kai has heard so many stories of how the most kind-hearted women turned into absolute dangerous and unstable human beings just to protect their children, and clearly Cindy has turned into one of those people.

Cindy looked insane with hatred and this all towards the man she loves with her whole heart, soul, body and mind, but no one, not even Kai, will hurt her or her daughter, even if it means that she has to kill Kai with her own bare hands, she will do it. "Cindy...let...go." Kai managed to speak although it was difficult due to lack of air.

"Why, so that you can hurt me and my daughter? I don't think so."

"Pl...please...Ci...ndy." Cindy was in turmoil over whether she should let go or not, but after looking into Kai's eyes a bit longer, she finally decided to release Kai, which he secretly was very grateful for. He might kill his best friend without thinking twice but there is no way he will ever be able to hurt Cindy, no matter what she does. Kai coughed while rubbing his neck, all while still looking right into Cindy's eyes, and she looking right back into his, still with the sneer on her face. She was not done with him yet. She is going to make it crystal clear to Kai that she is not just anyone and that he can't mess with her like he does with everyone else.

"Bastard," is all she said before she lunged at Kai, sending them both to the ground. She immediately started hitting him with her fist, giving Kai no chance of defending himself. "Bastard...you will...not hurt...me or...my daughter!" Cindy was yelling between the punches. All the hurt, sadness, longing and all other emotions that she had kept inside, finally started surfacing and was now taking control of Cindy's thinking, sending her into a fit of rage. She again grabbed Kai around the neck, but this time with both of her hands, and Kai could see and feel the rage inside of her. He finally decided that it is time to start defending himself. He then also grabbed Cindy around her neck and applied the same pressure she was applying to his neck. The harder she pressed, the harder he pressed. The two lovers glared at each other, faces becoming red and both of them starting to feel light-headed. Cindy was sitting on top of Kai while he was laying flat on his back. Cindy knew she will not be able to hold on much longer and what will happen when she faints before Kai does? He can easily take Ciara and disappear forever. That thought alone made Cindy to immediately release Kai and the look of rage disappeared from her eyes and was replaced with that of fear. Kai also released his grip and was confused by the look of fear in her eyes.

"Finally realised you are no match for me Cindy?"

"Go to hell." Cindy got off of Kai and stood up which Kai soon followed. Cindy moved away from him and went to stand in front of the window, just staring out of it without saying a word. Kai wanted to approach her but was stopped by a sudden burst of very strong emotions inside of him, hateful and raging emotions inside of him that he has never felt before, and he just knew something was very wrong. It almost seems like all the emotions are being felt towards Cindy and Kai knows he will never ever have such strong hateful emotions towards her, which means, she is in danger.

"Cindy!" Cindy suddenly snapped out of her thoughts when she heard Kai yell her name and when she turned to face him, she was pulled away from the window and threw against the wall with great force, removing the air from her lungs. She struggled to get up as Kai was making his way to her. When he reached her, he grabbed hold of her hair and pulled her up, pinning her against the wall. Cindy was confused of why he was suddenly acting like this and then she saw that Kai's eyes were closed and his forehead was furrowed, like he was in some sort of internal battle.

"Kai?" Cindy called is name in a gentle manner but she did not get any response. Instead, Kai started shaking his head from side to side, confirming to Cindy that Kai was indeed in some sort of internal commotion, with whom, she would rather not want to find out now. "Kai baby, can you hear me?" Still there was no response from Kai. He held her against the wall and Cindy then heard the low growling sounds coming from Kai and this scared her shitless.

One moment Cindy was up against the wall, and the next she was released, with Kai staggering away from her while clutching his head. Kai dropped to his knees and then started yelling. "What are you doing to me?!" Cindy didn't know whether she should dare approach Kai or go and call for help, not that anyone will really be of any use.

"Kai?" Cindy also went down onto her knees and slowly crawled towards Kai, whose back was facing her. She reached him and gently placed her hand on his left shoulder and this caused Kai to suddenly snap his head towards her, eyes wide open. Cindy yelped when she saw Kai's eyes. They were completely black and it was clear that he was possessed. Cindy fell backwards, just staring at Kai in utter shock. Kai managed to say two words in a very deep growling voice and she heard it clearly.

"Cindy, run!" She didn't need to be told twice and as quickly as she could, she got on her two feet and stormed out of the room, heading downstairs as fast as she could.

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"He is waking up you guys."

"Finally! Are you okay, how are you feeling Tyson?"

Tyson sat upright, rubbing his head where he hit the wall. "Man, it feels like I hit a wall."

"Err, you kind of did dude, don't you remember?"

Tyson looked at Max with a confused look and then it was like a light bulb went on in his head. "Kai, that bastard! Wait till I get my hands on him! He is going to wish he..." Tyson tried to get up but Ray and Max held him down.

"Don't you even think about it Rambo. You are no match for Kai."

"Thanks for the confidence guys."

"They are right Tyson." Tyson looked up at Tala who was leaning against the counter with a towel around his neck, a blood covered towel. "Kai will rip you apart without breaking a sweat. It will be wise to stay away from him, all of you, and don't think you will be able to take him on because none of you can."

"Oh yeah, I will show you Tala. I can take Kai on, any place, anytime and anywhere."

"Stop being an idiot, Tyson. Bryan, Spencer nor Ian could take on Kai, and they were much stronger than you." Tala immediately felt dreary the moment he realised that he talked about them like they were not there anymore, which is the truth after all. "Kai is very dangerous now, and I know for a fact he is much stronger than all of us combined. He threw you against the wall like you were a piece of ragged cloth, so don't try and be a hero because you will pay dearly for it, and sadly you will pay with your life."

"But what the hell are we suppose to do now Tala? Just sit around and wait for Kai to kill us off one by one?"

"No but doing something irrational like confronting him will not go down so smoothly. Just keep clear of him, that's all and I know it sounds impossible seeing as he came in here but that is all we can do now."

"Where is Kai anyway?"

"No idea. He just said that he has some unfinished business and then just disappeared, so who knows where he could be. As long he is not here with us, I couldn't care less."

Ray and Max supported Tyson until he reached the counter so that he could take a seat. Solange and Hilary was busy making tea for everyone to calm their nerves, while Kenny was busy on his laptop, trying to find more information on why everyone's bit-beasts all have disappeared. Tala returned to being silent and just looked as Solange and Hilary softly conversed with each other. Kai will probably feel very satisfied knowing that he caused some tension between his sister and his best friend. Solange has been slightly pissed at Tala, continuously demanding by what her brother meant by `Tala being by his side`. Tala will never be able to tell her that he and Kai are the deadly X-twins; she will never forgive him and that is something he can't live with, Tala would much rather keep the truth from her for both his and her own good.

Tala could not take his eyes off of Solange but that all changed when he, and the rest, all heard Cindy screaming Tala's name and then she came rushing into the kitchen, all pale and breathless. Tala and Ray were the first two by her side. "What's wrong?"

"It...is...Kai." Cindy struggled to catch her breath and just pointed to upstairs and just then a horrible scream reached their ears and it was clear that it was Kai and he sounded like he was in horrible pain. Tala and Cindy bolted up the stairs, the others close behind them. Tala and Cindy reached the doorway to her bedroom at the same time and both were greeted with a horrible sight, something they never thought they will ever witness. There stood Kai, blood running from his arms, pitch black eyes staring at them but that was not the most shocking thing; it was his huge black wings coming out of his back, the tips almost reaching the roof. The others finally reached the doorway and they all gasped when they saw Kai. Kai tilted his head slightly to the side to observe them all and just snarled at them. With that he turned around, walked to the doors of the balcony, opened it and just took off into the night sky. Cindy leaned against the doorframe and just slid down. Ray, Solange and Hilary reached out to her first, trying to help her to stand up. Tala walked into the room and headed straight for the balcony where Kai just flew out of. Tyson, Max and Kenny also just looked around in the room, all too shocked to take in what they just witnessed. Ray and Solange managed to carry Cindy to her bed where they placed her after Hilary removed the luggage and clothes from the bed. Cindy was very pale and shaking. Hilary rushed down stairs to get her some sugar water. Tala came back in and just looked at everyone.

"What was that thing? It definitely was not Kai."

"I am not sure Ray, but whatever it was, is just the start of whatever is coming. I have a feeling that it will only be a matter of time before we find out what is going on, and I am sure none of us is going to like it."

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A few hours have already passed and thanks to the tea that Hilary and Solange made, everyone seemed to have fallen asleep peacefully, despite the events of earlier. Everyone except Cindy, who was sitting at the foot of the bed, on the soft carpet, knees pulled up to her chest with her arms wrapped around her legs and her head resting on her knees. She was too horrified to close her eyes, no matter how tired she felt. Every time she closed her eyes, she sees Kai with his black eyes and wings, and it hurts like hell.

'Was this part of him being the new darker version, but if it was, why hasn't he mentioned anything, did Kai even know that this will happen to him? Some part of me wants to see him but the other part is just too terrified, knowing that Kai is no longer the same. What does this all mean? Oh Kai, where are you my love, what is happening to you?' Cindy was brought out of her thoughts when she heard the doors to the balcony open and she immediately froze out of fear. She could not see who or what it was that came walking in slowly, because it was dark, she could just make out a silhouette, and luckily it did not have wings, which brought some sort of relief to her nerves. Cindy did not dare make a move until she was certain of whom it was.

"Cindy?" It was Kai, there was no doubt about it, but still Cindy refused to move. Kai saw her at the foot of the bed on the carpet; his eyes were well adapted to the dark. He called her name again but she did not reply. Kai crouched down but did not approach her. He could see that she was awake and looking straight at him.

"Stay where you are." Cindy slowly got up and went to switch on the light by the bedside. She saw that Kai was without the black eyes and black wings and looked like his normal dark-self. Kai regained is stance and the two just looked at each other.

"I am sorry for what happened earlier."

"What was that Kai?"

"Black Dranzer taking control of my body."

"Why?"

"Because I just can't leave you and let's just say, we had stuff to do, but to me, you are much more important, and he got pissed."

"What stuff?"

"Nothing to worry about now; did he hurt you?"

"Not physically." Kai looked at Cindy, indicating that she elaborates more. "Just mentally, you know, the wings and crap; that is not something I thought I would ever see my fiancé have you know."

Kai couldn't help but chuckle at that. "I am really sorry about that."

Kai made a move to walk closer to Cindy but stopped when he saw Cindy tense up. "Please Kai, just stay where you are, please."

"Cindy, I will not hurt you, I promise."

"Just please, please Kai."

"No Cindy. You will have to get use to the new me because I don't intend on letting you go, ever. I want you by my side, you and our daughter." Kai moved closer to Cindy and before she could jump onto the bed to escape Kai, he caught her arm and pulled her closer to him, but not as aggressive as she had expected. He held her in a close and secure embrace and she just melted into his touch, the familiar warmth and scent, memories and emotions flooding back. Kai placed a soft kiss on her head and she turned to look into his eyes. "It is still me Cindy, I told you. Just close your eyes and let me prove to you that it is still me." Cindy closed her eyes and then felt Kai's lips on hers and before she knew it, she was totally lost in the passionate kiss; the kiss that once again proved to her, that despite being a darker person, it is still her Kai, her one and only. She wrapped her arms around his neck and deepened the kiss, prepared to give her whole body and soul to Kai to do with whatever he wanted to, and all Kai wants to do is prove his love to her, and also that she never has to mistrust him.

While the others were fast asleep, the two lovers were rekindling their love for each other, a love that will overcome anything and a love that no amount of darkness will ever be able to destroy, because it is much stronger than the darkness.

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The sun's rays are slowly making their way into the sky, a clear indication of a new day approaching. The temperatures are a couple of degrees below freezing point, but at least nothing too extreme, not yet anyway. Winter is still too come and then the temperature will be far below the freezing point, brutal and unmerciful for anyone caught without inner heating or any warm clothes on. Winter has its advantages though, for all the lovers as they have the perfect excuse to snuggle close to each other every opportune moment they get, unfortunately, for a certain couple that will not be the case.

Cindy is sitting up in bed, leaning against the headboard and covered with the covers as she is watching Kai getting dressed. They have not had any sleep until now, due to their activities, which included making love, talking, and then making love again, and the last hour or so, they just lay close, snuggling close to each other to just enjoy each other's company. "Will I see you tonight?"

Kai has finished putting on his leather pants. He walked over to Cindy and placed a kiss on top of her head before looking deep into her eyes, the same as her brother's eyes. "Of course, just try to not miss too much."

Cindy playfully punched his arm. "You really are cocky, you know that right."

Kai just smirked. "It comes with the territory love. You don't like?"

"I guess that I just have to get use to it, don't I?" Kai nodded with his usual smirk. Cindy could just roll her eyes and muttered 'thought so' which Kai easily caught. Kai proceeded to put on his shirt, shoes, and lastly his black fingerless gloves. His whole black attire just fit him perfectly; black really suits him, it compliments him and his new side, and it also drives Cindy crazy with desire. She could feel herself getting very aroused once more when she just stared at him, lost in thoughts and feelings of lust. Kai watched her, finding it very amusing that she could still just stare at him like a love sick 12 year old teenage girl. He couldn't help but chuckle and this brought Cindy back to reality and she caught Kai looking at her with that amusing look in his eyes. "What?"

"I should ask you that. You are looking at me as if I am something you want to devour." Cindy snorted but Kai was right, she did want to devour him.

"So what if I am?" Now Cindy was the one to smirk and Kai just quirked an eyebrow.

"What do you to intend to do about it?"

Cindy pushed back the covers and revealed her naked body and Kai could also feel himself getting aroused all over again just by the sight of his one and only love. She stood on her knees on the mattress so that she can be at the same level as Kai and looked deep into his eyes. "Come closer and I will show you," she said in a very seductive voice, one she knew Kai can never resist, no matter how hard he tried. Kai leaned closer and before he knew it, their lips met, and at once, Cindy took the role of the dominating one, surprising Kai, but before he could get totally lost in her taste and touch, she pulled away, leaving him with a very confused look on his face, and also a very uncomfortable hard-on.

"And now, I thought you wanted to devour me?" Cindy still smirked and then whispered against his lips,

"Wait till tonight." She pulled away completely and they both just smirked.

"Bloody tease."

"Your tease, lover boy."

Kai sat down on the bed and took Cindy's hands in his and turned serious. "We will get through this, and then we can finally start the life that we both deserve, and the best part is that we will start it together. I just need some time to sort out some things and then it can all begin."

"You promise?"

Kai nodded. "Soon, Black Dranzer and I will be in our rightful place and then you will be by my side, as we control this world, making it a better place." Cindy turned away from Kai, an uneasiness taking over. Kai took her by her chin gently and turned her to look at him again. "What is wrong?"

"Kai, do you really have to do this, I mean take over the world, change it?"

"It is necessary. The human race is in chaos, forever destroying everything. They need to be controlled and do what they were created for."

"And what is that exactly?"

"To serve and to guard this planet, not to destroy it; there will be some changes though. Instead of serving the light like it was intended, they will serve the dark, and those who oppose will simply be slaughtered." The way Kai said it, sent shivers through out Cindy's whole body; to her, it sounded like Kai was talking about a game that he plays on a computer, but instead, it is real life, and she is not sure whether she will be able to stand by and watch as he and this Black Dranzer slaughter millions and millions of innocent people, because there will be many who will oppose the dark side. "Cindy, it is necessary, believe me; this world needs order and who better than someone who has the power to change it all? Black Dranzer and I will make it a perfect organised place to live in, to raise our family in."

Cindy pulled away from Kai and got up with the covers wrapped tightly around her body. She walked over to the window, watching as the sun was slowly making its way up into the sky. Kai looked at her and sighed. He too got up and embraced Cindy from behind, both just standing there in silence, looking at the new dawn approaching. "Cindy, I know it sounds cruel but you will see in the end that I was right and there will be a definite change in this world and it will be for the better."

"For who will it be better Kai? The bad guys? Those who are already living in and loving the dark side, or for the whole world," Kai turned Cindy around to face him and cupped her face gently between his hands.

"Just trust me Cindy, it will be for the best. It won't be long then we will have taken control, and then the two of us can be together without worrying about anyone seeing us; we won't have to meet in secret anymore. Wouldn't you like that?"

Cindy sighed and just nodded her head. "Just promise me one thing Kai that no matter what happens, that you will never stop loving me and our daughter." Kai took Cindy into a tight embrace and just held her tight against his body, his breathing in Cindy's left ear sending jolts of electricity through her body, which immediately intensified when he spoke softly into her ear.

"I promise Cindy; I promise to love you and our daughter for as long as I live, and even in death I will continue loving you both. I have said it before and I will say it again: no amount of darkness will ever stop me from loving you and our daughter." Cindy felt her heart skip a few beats at those words and just pulled him tighter into the embrace.

They soon had to let go because it was time for Kai to leave. The others will be up and they would want to come and check on Cindy to make sure if she was okay. "I will see you tonight okay?"

"I can't wait."

Kai placed his hand on top of her left breast where her heart is situated. His hand started to glow a faint red and Cindy could feel warmth inside of her."This warmth will remain in you and it will be a clear indication of my life force; it's nothing harmful so you can relax my love. It is just to let you know I am always around, and when it becomes a slight bit tingling, it will mean I am on my way. Now you will always know that I am alright."

"And if I don't feel it?"

"Then I am dead." Kai just had to chuckle at Cindy's shocked face. "Which will not happen so relax Cindy; you better get use to that warmth because it will be there for a long, long time." Cindy kissed Kai passionately, showing her appreciation for what he just gave her. "I have to go but I will see you tonight."

"Bet your ass you will." One last kiss was shared between the two before Kai disappeared into the dawn. Cindy touched her chest and just smiled as she felt the warmth decrease a bit but she could still feel it. She has a lot to process. Kai was not clear on how long it will be before the take-over is going to start, so she has to start accepting that she will soon be by the side of the ruler of the earth. 'My Kai, when we first met, I never even would have dreamed of you becoming the one and only leader of this world, and at such a young age. Life really is full of surprises, but exciting all the same. It would have been nice to know that if I had any enemies, I just could have them killed, just like that, but luckily I do not have enemies and neither do I want any enemies. I miss you already but luckily tonight is less than 24 hours away, so until then, I can keep myself busy.' Cindy smiled at herself and then went to her en-suite bathroom to get freshened up and go and see how her daughter is doing. She may not have slept at all last night, but she did not feel tired at all.

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Tyson was the last to wake up, as usual. The others were all in the kitchen busy having breakfast but they all looked as if they did not get a lot of sleep the previous night, and who can blame them. Seeing your former team mate and friend with black wings is not an image to take too lightly. Tala was not with them as he left early to go and report the murder of Bryan, Spencer and Ian. Spending the night with Solange has helped him overcome the shock and now that his mind is cleared, he can make a proper statement to the police, although it pains Tala knowing that he has to turn his back on his best friend, if Kai can still be classified as that.

Miguel spent the night at his girlfriend's place and will only return later on during the day; Alec and Mila had to fly out to Kiev for a meeting that could not be postponed or cancelled but they are already on their way back to Moscow and will land in about an hour's time. Voltaire is back in Japan and will have to stay there for about a week and it is unfortunately very necessary for him to be there.

The breakfast table was very quiet, no one really being in the mood to talk. Cindy was also with them, along with Ciara, and she looked fine and very relaxed, which the others kind of found strange but neither thought it to be wise to raise their opinions now on the matter. "Solange, Hilary, do you two ladies feel like joining me in some shopping later on?"

"Sure, why not. I think we all need it anyway. What about you boys, any plans?"

"Not really." Ray just sighed and Cindy decided to help them all get in a better mood.

"Guys, sulking around all day will not help, Kai will definitely not do the same for you, that I can promise you. I have made peace with the situation, and if I can do it, all of you can also. Try to forget about last night and just try to move on, and who knows, maybe, just maybe, Kai might turn back to his old self and then you will anyway be forced to forget all that has happened so far." Cindy knew she was feeding them a bunch of crap but anything will do right now to get them out of their funk. She is in a good mood and she is not going to allow their depressing mood get her down, so if she has to lie to them a bit then so be it. Cindy realised that she is slowly starting to sound more and more like Kai. She touched her heart and could still feel the warmth inside and this brought a smile on her face.

"I guess you are right but it is very difficult Cindy; he killed three of his friends and then he turned into that thing. It is just a bit too much to process at the moment, but your optimism is appreciated."

"I know brother but just try at least, otherwise you all are just going to make yourselves sick."

"Alright, no more sulking. Whatever happens from now on will not get us down and we all will carry and support one another and we will stick together and just try our best to stay positive."

"That's the spirit Max! Why don't you boys join us on some shopping, it will do you all good." The boys all just dead-panned at Cindy's suggestion and the girls had to laugh at this.

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While the spirits of the youngsters were in high hopes at the Hiwatari mansion, the same could not be said with Tala. He just gave his statement to the police about how he witnessed the murder of his three friends. Tala gave the location of where their bodies were, but before he went to the police, he drove out there to gather all the evidence of the X-twins like the bikes and the axes. He loaded everything on his truck and hid it somewhere until the investigation is over and then he will return everything to the safe. The safe he could not move, well not on his own anyway, and tried to cover it with old ragged material and hopes it does not draw too much unnecessary attention, but the officers will most definitely spot it.

Right now a few police officers are on their way to the location where the bodies of Bryan, Spencer and Ian are situated. Soon it will be all over the news that once again, Kai Hiwatari, has murdered three innocent people and the world will hate him even more than they already do, but Tala had to do it. He owes it to the families of his friends, which have not yet been notified of their murders. Tala has told Solange that he has to tell the police and she agreed that it was for the best, despite it being her brother. It is difficult for all of Kai's loved ones as no one could ever imagine Kai turning into this horrible monster; it is still so unreal to all of them.

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It is just past noon. Tala came driving through the gates of the Hiwatari mansion and his heart felt very heavy. Mila and Alec are back and probably have already been informed of what their son has done, and to be honest, Tala is not in the mood to see them, and it is not out of disrespect, but because he is emotionally drained. The whole morning has been full of questions, some were asked over and over again, and then he had to deal with the family members of his three murdered friends, so quite frankly, Tala just can't take any crying anymore today.

He walked in and could already feel the heavy and uncomfortable atmosphere hanging in the air. He went to the living room and found Alec, Mila, Miguel and Solange just sitting there, comforting each other. They did not even notice Tala, so the red head decided to give them some privacy. He went looking for Cindy to see how she was doing. He first went up to Ciara's room and when he came in, he gasped when he saw she was breastfeeding and quickly turned to leave but it was too late; Cindy saw him and called him in. At least she was modest and kept herself covered. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to just burst in like this."

"It's okay Tala, at least I am not exposed." Tala gave a nervous laugh and then walked over to Cindy and Ciara.

"How are you holding up?"

"There is no use in pondering over what Kai has done, Tala. It is in the past and there is nothing we can do about it; all we can do now is focus on the future." Tala was more than surprised about Cindy's attitude. Last night she was a mess, but today she looks so at peace. What happened that made her feel so calm and relaxed.

"I guess you are right but it still hurts like hell."

"I know, and it will hurt as long as we allow it to hurt. I have made peace with the fact that the Kai we all knew in the beginning has died, and there is no getting him back. I mourned his death but it is over now. There is a new Kai and we just have to accept it."

"I guess." Tala took a seat on the soft carpet and just looked at how beautiful little Ciara is, completely unaware of the horrors that are taking place all around her, all thanks to her father. Tala then looked at Cindy and he could swore that he saw her glowing, radiating happiness, but it is probably all the stress that is getting to him. The two friends talked for some time more until Ciara fell asleep, and then they headed down stairs to meet the Hiwatari family.

By the time it was five 'o clock the evening, the news has spread like a wild fire that Kai Hiwatari has murdered three more people, shocking everyone all over again. Alec and Mila was not upset with Tala about him going to the police; they also agreed that it was the right thing to do because it is what those three young men deserve, that their killer is brought to justice. The families of the three murdered young men were all devastated, not just by their murder, but also by who did it and how Kai killed them, although they were not angry with the Hiwatari family; it was not their fault at all. They just could not believe that Kai would do something like this, so horrible and so gruesome.

Tala had to get away from everyone for a while. It was all just becoming too overwhelming for him; all the crying and questions, he just could not handle it anymore. That is why he decided to take a walk beside the river, hoping that the sounds of the water will bring some sort of peace to his mind. It was already dark by the time he went for a walk, despite it not even being seven o' clock. Tala knows that walking alone is very dangerous, knowing that Kai might jump him any moment, but the way he feels now, he actually wishes that it does happen; then at least he will be released from this emotional torment he is going through. The red head found a place to sit down and just sat there, listening to the sound of the water flowing by him. He did not notice that he was being followed the whole way, until he heard the footsteps stop just a few feet away from him.

"You know it is dangerous walking alone on your, my dear old friend." Tala did not even feel shocked or scared when he heard Kai's voice behind him.

"If you want to kill me, just do it already Kai, I don't care anymore." Tala heard Kai walking closer and was surprised when his friend took a seat next to him.

"I have a proposition for you."

"I'm listening."

"Very soon, all this chaos will be in order, and I want you to be part of that order."

"What do you mean?"

"Your heart is dark, but unfortunately, it is also light, which angers me a bit. Forget the light side Tala and cross over to the dark side, where you can become powerful and get everything you have ever wanted. On the dark side, you can have so much control over so many things, all you have to do is join me."

"And what if I don't want to?"

"Then you can send my regards to Bryan and the others. You have two hours to decide Tala. We will meet at the park that is closest to my house, and do come alone. I wouldn't want to slaughter anyone else of your friends, not yet anyway." With that, Kai stood up and just disappeared, leaving Tala alone with a very difficult decision.

'If I join Kai, my life will be spared; I will be able to do what I want, decapitate people as much as I want to...no! I can't be that person anymore! The X-twins are over. But if I join him, I have a chance to save the others, I can prevent Kai from killing them. What did Kai exactly mean by there will be order, what is he planning? I am certain Black Dranzer is part of it. I know what the right thing is, but do I really want it? I do miss my friend; however, do I miss him enough to corrupt my soul completely?' Tala continued sitting by the river bank for another half an hour, lost in his thoughts, before heading back to the Hiwatari's. Maybe after he talked to Solange, he will be able to come to a decision, one that will forever change his life, no matter which one he chooses.

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Tala came walking in through the front door of the Hiwatari mansion just as Hilary hit Tyson over the head with a text book. Kenny and Max came running after Hilary to prevent her from hitting Tyson but were too late. Tala burst out laughing as Tyson started to nurse his head, and this act alone made the decision for Tala; there was no need to talk to Solange anymore. He is going to join Kai, if only to save all these innocent friends of him so that they can have more moments like this instead of fearing for their lives, and eventually being killed before they even started to live their adult lives.

Tala left the four friends, Max and Kenny preventing Hilary and Tyson from going at each other's throats again. Solange and Ray were in the living room, along with Cindy and Ciara, all with smiles on their faces, no doubt about Tyson and Hilary. Tala took a seat next to Solange and they immediately embraced each other. "You okay?"

"All is better now." Tala gave her a re-assuring smile and she believed him, for now anyway. If there is one thing Solange has learned, that is to read Tala, and right now, she knew something was up and she is going to find out what it is.

"Where are the old people?" Solange nudged Tala in his ribs, but he just laughed off.

"They are out for a dinner meeting, they will be back around midnight, and Miguel is at his girlfriend's place and we will probably see him only tomorrow morning. So, what are we going to do tonight?"

"I have no idea, well, if it was up to Hilary, she would tell us that we have more than enough school work to keep us busy with, but to tell you the truth, there is no way in hell I am doing any educational stuff this time of the night."

"Why don't you go visit Mariah?"

"I would but she has plans with her family for the evening."

"That sucks."

"Tell me about it, so I guess I will just be with you guys, how boring." Ray snickered as Solange threw him with one of the cushions from the couch.

"Well, I can't stay long."

"Why not Tala?" "I have..."

"Hilary, stop hitting me! I didn't eat your damn cookies!"

"I know you did! You are worse than a vacuum cleaner and a caterpillar crossed!" Everyone laughed as Tyson and Hilary went on with their fighting.

"What's that about anyway?"

"Hilary's parents sent her some cookies that her grandmother made, but somehow they all disappeared and now she thinks Tyson ate them all."

"Well, did he?"

"Who knows, he eats everything else he sees, so why not that? He eats so much that he probably didn't even realise he was eating her cookies."

"Tyson, Tyson, Tyson." Tala said while shaking his head from side to side, chuckling.

"You were saying my love. Where are you going later?"

"Oh, yeah, I have an appointment."

"With?"

"What's with the questions Solange?"

"I'm just curious, that's all." Cindy and Ray immediately felt a change in the atmosphere.

"Curious, jealous or mistrusting?"

"Excuse me?!" Solange got up and turned to face Tala with her hands on her hips.

"What the hell is that suppose to mean?!" Tala realised his mistake and was quick to try and correct it. He quickly got to his feet and took her into his arms.

"I'm sorry babe, I didn't mean it like that."

"Like hell you didn't. Let go of me." Solange removed Tala's arms from around her and then walked out of the living room, very pissed.

"Dude, just go after her; we have enough chaos in the house already with Tyson and Hilary."

"No need telling me twice." Tala hurried after Solange and was surprised at how fast she was going; she was already half way up the stairs.

She was just about to go into her room when Tala finally caught up with him. "Go away Tala."

"No. Look, I am sorry for saying those things."

"Whatever." Solange opened the door to her room and went in, and when she was just about to close the door in Tala's face, he held it with his hand. "Go away!"

"No, not until we talk this out." Tala pushed the door open completely and only after he was inside, did he close the door. Solange paid no attention to him and went to sit on her bed, Tala taking the chair at the window that she placed there so that she can always look out of the window when she did not want to go sit outside onto the balcony. "I know you are not jealous Solange, it is just you caught me off guard with your questioning; you never did it before."

Solange sighed. "When you came, I immediately saw something was off with you, that's the only reason why I was asking. So, what is going on?"

Tala stood up and went to stand in front of the window, staring outside. 'Should I tell her? That was my intention in the beginning but now, I am not so sure anymore.'

"Tala, what is going on?"

"Solange, if you were given a choice between good and evil, which will you choose?"

"Good of course."

"But what if choosing the good means that all your loved ones, including yourself, will be slaughtered, but if you choose the evil, then you can save them all?"

Solange stood up and walked over to Tala and embraced him from behind. "Why do I get the feeling that you and Kai met up?"

Tala just had to smirk at this. "Your intelligence continues to shock me, miss Hiwatari." She just had to laugh. Tala turned around so that he can look into the eyes of his lover.

"I am right, am I?"

"Yeah."

"Did you choose already?" Tala just nodded.

"I am guessing that you took the offer where no one of us has to be killed?" Again the red head just nodded.

"Oh my love," Solange took Tala and hugged him tightly which he gladly returned.

"I have to meet him soon to give him my answer. I know it is not the right choice, but what else can I do?"

"I know, and I support you all the way. We will all see him in an..."

"No Solange, not we, only me. Kai made it clear that if anyone comes with me, he is going to kill them, no matter who it is; that is why I am going alone."

"But Tala, what if..."

"He kills me? He would have done it already, so don't worry, okay?" Tala kissed her on her forehead and the two just held each other for a while.

"Just be safe; that is not my brother anymore, well, not the old one anyway."

"I know, but yeah, let's go downstairs and see who have won the battle between Hilary and Tyson."

"Those two should just hook up already and bang the shit out of each other; it is so obvious they both lust for each other, everyone else can see it except those two."

"Maybe they need some help, some pushing into the right direction."

"Now that sounds like a good idea. I am going to need Cindy's help with the cunning on this one; this is going to be so cool."

"I am almost too afraid to ask what you are planning."

"You'll see." Tala could tell by just the look in Solange's eyes that she is planning something wicked, which will work in the end.

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Solange kissed Tala goodbye and watched as he drove off. There is no way she is going to allow him to face her brother alone. She called all the others, except Cindy, and told them to come with her, and that she will explain everything on the way. She did not want to tell Cindy because she already had to endure so much from Kai and didn't want to put more on Cindy. Tala made the mistake of telling her where he is suppose to meet Kai, and Solange was heading for the park.

Kai was already in the park, waiting for Tala. He saw the car approaching and soon he stood face to face with his friend. "I thought I told you to come alone."

"I did."

"Really?" Kai indicated to where Solange's car parked and the two young men watched as everyone got out of the car.

"Bloody hell."

"I take it my sister followed you then."

"Kai please, don't harm them, please. Look, I have made up my mind and I am going to join you, no questions asked, but please just don't hurt them." Kai stood with his arms crossed and he almost looked very bored. He didn't say anything and watched as the four males and two females slowly approached them

"Guys, maybe we shouldn't have come; this is Kai we are talking about, you know the one who have killed 12 people so far."

"Relax Kenny, we will be fine, just trust me."

"I'll try Solange." The six finally arrived at where Tala and Kai was standing, the light of the park lamps giving them some illumination.

"What are you doing here Solange?" Solange ignored her boyfriend and just looked at Kai.

"What?"

"Nothing, just taking another good look at the person who were once my brother, but not anymore."

"Too bad. I believe Tala asked you a question: what are you doing here?"

"Protecting my boyfriend."

This caused Kai to snort. "You and who, these jokers?"

"Hey, who are you calling jokers?!"

"Tyson!" Ray and Max held onto Tyson as he wanted to, once again, lunch himself at Kai.

"I thought I told you all what I am going to do with Tyson if he dares to speak to me again."

"Kai, please, just leave him; he is not worth it." Kai just looked at Tala, the red glint in his eyes growing stronger and stronger.

"Are you siding with that weakling over me, Tala?"

"Just forget about him Kai, all of them; I believe we have things to discuss since I am joining you."

"What?!" all the others exclaimed in shock, except Solange.

"Tala, are you crazy?!"

"Shut it Ray! I suggest you all leave now, if you know what is good for you."

"We will not; you are not the boss of us Tala!" For just a split second, Tala could understand why Kai wants to rip Tyson's jaw apart; he too, felt it for a very brief moment but quickly shoved those feelings aside. "Black Dranzer!" just hearing that name, sent a shiver down everyone's spine, each and every one of them.

They suddenly heard the flapping of huge wings and just then, a large, yet very beautiful and majestic, black phoenix landed just behind Kai, and they could all feel the darkness radiating from the phoenix. Finally they all got to see the mysterious black phoenix they have heard so much of lately, and it sure was a beautiful beast.

'Are you in the mood to devour some human meat, my companion?'

'Just tell me which one, young one and I will make sure that not even his blood is left behind.'

'Good; the one with the cap on his head.'

'Very well.' The others had no idea that Kai and Black Dranzer were conversing within their minds, making plans to kill Tyson. All they saw was Black Dranzer approaching the group of friends, but then something happened that no one expected; suddenly Dragoon appeared, quickly forming a shield in front of the young bunch. "What the..." Kai and Black Dranzer, and everyone else, appeared very surprised by this. Soon, one by one, all the bit-beasts that have been missing, appeared, forming a shield in front of the group, Tala included.

"You guys, what is going on?"

'Black Dranzer, what is going on?'

'I believe they are ganging up to fight us.'

'Destroy them.' Black Dranzer just nodded his head and then opened his huge black wings, and gave out a battle cry.

He was getting ready to unleash his power onto the bit-beasts when something very strange happened. All the bit-beasts suddenly shot up into the air, disappearing from sight. Everyone looked up at the night sky, trying to catch a glimpse of any of the beasts that were visible just a few seconds ago but nothing, that was, until a bright explosion took place high up in the sky. No one knew what was happening, neither did Black Dranzer. Suddenly, the ground started shaking violently, everyone struggling to keep themselves balanced on their feet. The ground continued so shake for a few minutes more, and then, just like that, the light came down from the sky at an incredible speed, and Black Dranzer immediately realised what is going on and informed Kai of their coming fate if something was not done.

'We will die if they attack us Kai! Get out of here!' But it was too late. The light attacked both Kai and Black Dranzer, penetrating into both of their bodies; the others covered their eyes, not to be blinded by the light. All they could heard was Kai screaming `no`, and Black Dranzer screeching and then it was all over.

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Cindy was lying on her bed, thinking of Kai, as she kept her hand where her heart is, still feeling the warmth inside of her. She thought back on all the times they were intimate, recalling all the sounds and touches, how he took her into his arms, how Kai's hands did wonders to her body; how she also made his toes curl over from pleasure whenever she took the lead, making him gasp, resulting in her being filled with pride knowing that she also has the ability to knock him out of this world. Their relationship is not based just on the physical aspects, but more the emotional ones; the love making is just a bonus. Cindy could not help but smile and feel her stomach being filled with butterflies as she remembered how shy she was in the beginning on their `first date`, despite only being 13; both she and Kai blushed beet red, and it just got worse since Kai's parents drove them around the whole time when they were on their date.

She was brought out of her thoughts when a bright light shone through the opening of the curtains, and then she felt the house started to shake. Her first thought was to get to Ciara, and while staggering, she finally made her way to her daughter's room, hearing her cry. Cindy took her out of her crib and immediately sat on the ground, her daughter in a tight embrace in her arms, while the young one continued crying. Cindy didn't know what was going on, and soon enough, also found herself crying along with her daughter. The shaking continued and then the bright light re-appeared and within seconds, Cindy knew something horrible happened. She could no longer feel the warmth within her chest and a horrible and dreadful feeling took her over: Kai is dead. Fresh tears started streaming from her face, still holding Ciara tight against her body, and both mother and daughter remained in this position for some time afterwards.

Ray was the first to come into the room, almost two hours after the shaking has stopped. Ray saw his sister and niece in a tight embrace, on the ground, fast asleep. Ray felt horrible; he did not know how he was going to tell her that Kai is gone, for a second time she has to endure his death, only difference is that this time it is for good.

All bit-beasts have returned back to their respectful bits, and Driger has informed Ray that both Black Dranzer and Kai have been destroyed. Wolborg also communicated with Tala and informed him of why all the bit-beasts disappeared; it was to gather strength because they all sensed the destruction that was coming if Black Dranzer and Kai are not destroyed. They had to unite and summon all available strength so that they can all join forces; they knew that was the only way to destroy the two dark companions. Black Dranzer was just too strong to take on one by one, hence the joining of the bit-beasts.

While Solange and Hilary waited in the car, the young men searched the whole park for any evidence of Kai, but found none. Ray quietly walked over to where Cindy was, Tala following him. He took Ciara from Cindy's arms, trying not to wake the infant. Cindy immediately woke up when Ciara left her arms. She just gave one look at Ray and Tala, and she knew it, Kai is gone. They didn't even need to tell her anything. She just grabbed Ray and started to sob uncontrollably.

Once again they all were faced with the loss of Kai, the dark Kai, and despite him being all evil, it still hurt that this time he was gone for good. They all witnessed the destruction of Black Dranzer and Kai, and it kind of left them all with a type of emptiness inside of them that they could not explain. No matter how hard they tried to convince themselves that Kai would not have felt the same about them, the harder it is to believe it. This time, there is no miracle in bringing Kai back to life. He is gone for good, along with all of his plans to bring order to the world. The world is safe from the darkness that was about to be unleashed onto the world, all thanks to the team work of the sacred spirits. Once again, they have pulled through in protecting the planet from great evil; as long as the sacred spirits live, they will keep on protecting the planet from any harm and any threat, protecting the human race and all that it stands for. Black Dranzer could have easily destroyed them all, had they dare to take him on one by one, but they were smart and with their joined forces, they were much stronger than him and Kai. However, whatever happened to the saying that goes `evil never dies, it just comes in various forms`?