Author Note: Dedications this time around go to Rangerapprentice, Okami1001, i. miss. beyblade, Shiningheart of ThunderClan and MITT. CHAN

Dragon: Well, this is it. The final part of Cold Competition.

Phoenix: Thanks for sticking with us. Hope you enjoyed it as much as we did writing it.

Dragon: Please bear in mind that while we do accept anonymous reviews, we cannot reply to them. You will need to be signed in if you have questions that you want answered.

There is a sequel and it's called Between Two Realms.

Thanks again and we hope you enjoyed the ride.

Disclaimer: Beyblade belongs to Takao Aoki

Cold Competition

Chapter 30

The Black Phoenix hissed and whacked Driger in the face with one wing as a warning then turned to look for Boris. He let out a furious roar when he saw that the man had disappeared. Black Dranzer's warning had only angered Driger further and the snarling and roaring drowned out Ray's voice as he continued to try get through to Kai. They had to leave and get Kai and Czar treated. And Kai had to reel in Black Dranzer for his own sake as well as Dranzer's.

Hilary couldn't help but cry at the scene she was witnessing. What was wrong with Kai? He hadn't said anything at all to Ray's pleas and it was clear that Ray was distressed, so why was Kai so closed off? Had Black Dranzer really taken such a hold of him that he wasn't really with them anymore? "Kai!" Hilary called out. Hilary suddenly gasped as she remembered something.

"They say this one protects against negative energies."

"Negative energy huh? Does it work?"

"You wanna hold on to it for a while and try for yourself?"

"You don't mind?"

"I don't mind at all."

"Thanks. I'll let you know if it works."

Hilary took out the dark jewel. Kai had returned it to her some time ago now, but she'd never put it back with the others. She'd always just held on to it. It kinda made her think of Kai since he'd borrowed it. Not knowing what else to do and in desperation, Hilary threw the polished jewel at Black Dranzer. "Stop it!" she cried out.

The obsidian piece spun through the air and collided with Black Dranzer, hitting him in the back. He growled as he felt it make contact then his eyes widened. Beams of energy burst out in waves as Hilary's jewel lit up and disappeared beneath the black feathers. Black Dranzer screamed and took to the air, crashing into another pillar and demolishing it, before falling to the ground. Writhing in pain, more shockwaves pulsed out and shook the whole building. Kai choked and stumbled forward, holding his head tightly and gritting his teeth. He dropped to his knees and let out a strangled cry. Then everything went still. Black Dranzer's body slowly relaxed and soon only his deep breathing could be heard as he recovered from the sudden, painful attack of the obsidian jewel. Raising his head he turned it and looked at Hilary.

Hilary covered her mouth with a gasp. She hadn't known what she expected to happen, but whatever it was, it certainly wasn't that. And now the dark phoenix was looking at her and she wasn't sure what was going to happen next, or what she should do. Girl... a rumbling voice echoed. Come here. Hilary gasped again and headed forward shakily, unsure if she should or not. If anything went wrong she didn't have any way to defend herself.

"Hilary, don't," Bryan hissed through his teeth, keeping a wary eye on Black Dranzer.

The bit beast ignored him and watched Hilary intensely. What is your name? And what is Kai to you?

"My name is Hilary Tatibana and Kai is my boyfriend," Hilary answered with far more confidence than she felt.

Black Dranzer let out a quiet snort. I represent everything that is dark inside of him. Every emotion. Every traumatising memory he has. I have been the voice in the back of his head, encouraging him to go through with every action that he has later come to regret. Just how far are you willing to go to help him? Are you really prepared to risk your own safety for someone like that? Someone unstable, who can show no remorse? His black eyes seemed to stare right into Hilary's very soul. Someone who has already been touched by the curse of a black bit beast...

"Of course I'm prepared!" Hilary responded determinedly, finding her courage again. "You might represent the darkness in him but that's not all there is to Kai! He's a good person. I KNOW he is. And you're wrong! If he regrets what you encourage then he CAN show remorse! And he does. Nothing you could ever say will change how I feel about him. I'd do anything for Kai, because he's worth it. He's better than Boris thinks. He's better than he thinks. And he's better than you seem to think too. Because you're not all that he's about," Hilary told the dark phoenix. If he wanted to know how she felt then she figured she might as well give him a piece of her mind too. She wanted to protect Kai somehow, because he did the same for her, but words were her only weapon.

This time, Black Dranzer chuckled. He really has surrounded himself with strange people. But you... You are the most...difficult for me to understand. The temperature in the air began to drop back to normal again. Do what you wish, girl. But know this. By bonding with him, you are now bonded to me as well. You are his last safety line before falling into my darkness. And if that happens, then I too will disappear. He needs me just as much as I need him. So accept me.

"Well then you shouldn't push him so much!" Hilary lectured.

It's difficult. Sometimes I can't help myself.

"You should learn to control that," Hilary commented, looking over to Kai worriedly.

Black Dranzer followed her gaze. I can return some energy so the wound will heal. But you must remove the bullet first.

Hilary nodded and went to Kai's side, "Kai!" Kai by this point had dropped down onto his side and was lying on the floor panting. One hand was fumbling at the wound, searching for the bullet. Fighting through the sudden exhaustion was like trying to walk through glue, but a voice in Kai's head was telling him not to give up. A weak voice. Dranzer.

"We need to get the bullet out," Hilary commented. "How can we do that? I don't have anything to use."

"Not here..." Kai replied weakly, yet his voice was still surprisingly strong for someone who'd been shot. "The base. But where's Boris? ... Czar..."

"I'm not sure," Hilary commented, looking around.

"I think he got away," Ray commented over his shoulder, facing the remaining men. With Black Dranzer down some of them had gotten their nerve back and were considering arming themself once more. Driger was growling, looking between Black Dranzer and the men. Tala, Bryan and Spencer were also watching the men warily, ready to open fire at the first sign of them being a threat again. Nobody was really sure what they should be doing with Black Dranzer there, which led to a lot of hesitation and standing around. Driger was also keeping himself between Ray and the dark phoenix, completely untrusting of the other bit beast and practically boxing Ray in by the wall.

Kai glanced around at what he could see from the floor then sighed and closed his eyes. "That's enough..." he mumbled. Black Dranzer looked over at him and growled quietly before disappearing.

"First one of you to try anything will get shot in the face," Bryan told the men who were still debating whether to move or not. Ray dismissed Driger quietly and moved to Czar while Hilary offered to help Kai up.

Kai accepted the offer and slowly got to his feet, leaning on Hilary's shoulder. "I was supposed to be the one saving you," he said quietly.

Hilary smiled. "And you did," she told him softly. "Thank you."

"Bryan, lead the way, Spencer, get Czar. I'll cover you guys," Tala instructed as he moved towards the men who backed off, suddenly deciding that trying anything wouldn't be in their best interest. Spencer accompanied Tala over to the dog and gestured for Ray to follow the others back outside.

"But, what about Boris?" Kai asked trying to look back over his shoulder, but wincing when the movement pulled at his injury. "We have to go after him."

"Not with you like that," Tala replied with his gun pointed at the men while Spencer lifted Czar and headed after Bryan, Lee, Mariah and Cassie.

"I'm sorry, Kai," Ray said softly as he joined Hilary and the Russian. "You have to know that it wasn't, in any way, to protect Boris. I just... I didn't want you to lose yourself."

"He's getting away though!" Kai protested.

"We'll worry about that when the girls are out. Stop wasting time," Tala responded. Kai said nothing and looked away. "Move it, all of you," Tala barked over his shoulder at the delay. He wasn't happy with how many people they were up against. The longer they hesitated, the more chance there was of the men arming themselves and opening fire.

Gritting his teeth, Kai pulled away suddenly from Hilary and turned to look back at the men. Eyes red, he snapped his fingers on one hand then threw his other up into the air. A wall of fire appeared immediately, blocking any path the men could take to come after them. The hot gust of air blew Kai's bangs back and he sighed as he felt the pain in his side fade slightly. "Let's go."

"We'll come back when you're seen to," Tala told Kai as a compromise while they all made their way along the corridor back towards the exit.

"Fine," Kai relented.

000

Bryan led the way back towards the exit but swore as the route was blocked by several heavily armed men. Out-numbered and out-gunned. "Well isn't this just peachy," he muttered, knowing that Ian couldn't help them until they were outside. Spencer had his arms full with Czar, Tala was bringing up the rear, Kai was injured and everybody else was unarmed. To top it all off, this was the only way. "Fan-tucking-fastic."

"I can't do anything," Kai mumbled painfully, holding his side. Using his power had helped for a moment, but now he was feeling worse.

"Now what?" Cassie whispered worriedly. "We're trapped."

"Listen!" Ray commented suddenly.

"To what?" Bryan asked without removing his gaze from the men in front. It was a bit of a stalemate, neither side willing to shoot first.

"I hear it," Lee commented a moment later.

"Me too. It sounds like a beyblade," Mariah agreed.

Within seconds the sound of an approaching beyblade was audible to them all and some of the men started looking around. "Ignore it," one of the men snapped at the others. "Focus on them. If any of them move, shoot them."

The beyblade appeared suddenly in a yellow flash, rushing past all three men and knocking their guns off target. Hitting a wall, the blade then rebounded and this time went for the first man's head, while a figure dressed in dark clothing jumped out to tackle another. The long hair that had slipped out from under the hat the person wore gave them away. It was Zeo. Bryan wasted no time opening fire on the men away from Zeo so the boy wouldn't be caught in the crossfire.

Kai watched the scene unfold before him, somewhat dumbstruck. Zeo was helping them? After everything that had happened. How had he even known to come here? Part of Kai wanted to think it was part of some sick joke to get to him. But the more logical side of his brain said otherwise. Did Zeo really mean what he had said? About wanting to start over? Was it true? Kai wanted to believe that was the case now more than ever. They needed all the help they could get. So, if Zeo was prepared to take such a risk, then Kai should be too. A beam of light burst out of his pocket as his mind cleared and a huge, three-headed dog appeared above Zeo's beyblade. Cerberus was back.

"Cerberus!" Zeo gasped in delight, glancing briefly at Kai in thanks before sending his bit beast to attack the men and create a diversion so they could all escape.

"Not so much of a wilted plant pot after all," Tala commented to Kai as the group made their escape.

000

Outside the group found Wyatt waiting for them, holding the door to the hatch open and looking about anxiously. Kai couldn't believe what was happening, even as he rushed out with the others. "Wyatt..." he mumbled.

Wyatt smiled sheepishly. "You didn't say anything about me following," he commented. "And I brought back up. I hope you don't mind."

Kai knew that now wasn't the time to argue and sighed. "Thanks." With Ian covering their retreat, the group left the compound and the shorter Russian joined them outside before they all headed back for Spencer's truck. Kai cursed quietly as he climbed into the truck and sat down. "Damn, this isn't good," he muttered, pulling his hand away from his wound. The bleeding was starting to get heavier.

"Can't we do something about that now?" Hilary asked worriedly.

"I can hold out 'til we get back," Kai told her. "How's Czar?"

"Not good," Spencer responded grimly as he lay the husky down carefully in the back of the truck. "We'll need to get him to the vet right away." Bryan climbed in next to Czar to keep an eye on him and wordlessly held pressure over the wound.

Kai let out a miserable sound and sat down in the truck. They'd managed to get the girls back but Boris had still got away. And now Czar was in bad shape and Kai wasn't much better. The rescue mission had been a success but it had come at a price. When would things stop going wrong?

"Keep the pressure on your own wound and worry about that," Tala told Kai as everyone else climbed in and settled, still keeping a wary eye out for any pursuit. With everyone in, Spencer pulled out and they were on their way. Kai remained silent, watching the world go by out the window. He felt a sense of relief fall over him when the monastery disappeared out of sight. He never wanted to step foot in there again. Blood continued to seep through his fingers from his wound, despite the pressure he was applying and he passed out before they got back to the base.

000

Rather than take Kai to a hospital where all kinds of complicated questions would be asked, Tala and Bryan opted for removing the bullet themselves while Spencer took Czar to a vet who he knew wouldn't ask questions. The girls were patched up fairly quickly and the rest waited for news whilst enduring Tyson's endless list of questions. More than once, Lee snapped at the world champ to be quiet. It was annoying, nobody knew all the details yet, and he was more concerned with how things were and would be than with what was already done.

Mariah had recovered from her shock quicker than Cassie and Hilary and headed over to girls after assuring her brother that she was fine now and glancing at Ray who'd barely spoken since Zeo arrived. "You two okay?" she asked quietly.

"Been better," Cassie replied quietly, while Hilary remained silent as she stared at Kai's room door. Mariah smiled a little and patted Cassie's arm comfortingly before joining Hilary and resting a hand on the girl's shoulder.

"... He's hurt because of me," Hilary mumbled.

"Hilary, there was nothing we could do. You know that. Don't blame yourself. Kai won't like that," Mariah told her.

"I know, but I can't help it," Hilary responded. Mariah put her arms around Hilary and pulled her into a hug. Hilary smiled a little, grateful for the comfort.

A moment passed and then Kai's door opened and Bryan stepped put. He smiled and held up a small glass jar for the others to see. "We got the little bastard," he announced, shaking the jar. The bullet rattled inside it.

"Great!" Tyson cheered. "So how's Kai doing?"

"He's gonna be fine. He came round not long after Tala pulled this out. The wound has already started to heal. I wouldn't be surprised if he tries to get up in the next hour or so. But we're not going to let him."

"Can Hilary see him?" Mariah asked.

Bryan nodded and held the door open. "He's asking for her. And he wants to know that everyone else is okay too." Bryan turned his head. "Ray?"

Ray started and looked up as Hilary entered the bedroom, "Yeah?" Ray asked.

Bryan nodded towards the room. "He's asking after you too. Said he wants to apologise for what happened." Ray frowned a little in confusion before heading to the room too.

"When can we see Kai?" Tyson asked. Kai had been brought in unconscious after all and Tyson was really worried about his friend.

"In a little while, I promise," Bryan told him.

Tyson seemed happy to accept this and the group settled. "When he's recovered enough are you all going to talk about this to find out what happened?" Max asked curiously. "Lee said he doesn't remember a lot of it."

"We usually have a meeting after we pull stunts like this," Bryan nodded. "We like to keep everyone on the same page, since people see things differently."

"We can sit in for that, right?" Tyson asked. "I wanna know what we missed."

"It might be easier to follow if we let them discuss it first," Kenny pointed out. "Here, Tyson. I've finished repairs on Dragoon. Why don't you take him for a test spin?"

Bryan smirked. "You guys can sit in if you want." He then headed back into Kai's room.

000

"How are you feeling?" Hilary asked Kai softly.

"Not bad, considering the circumstances," Kai replied quietly. "Tala and Bryan patched me up good."

"Well of course we did," Tala commented as he cleaned away the medical supplies he'd been using. "If we hadn't, Hilary would have handed us our heads on pointed sticks."

Kai snorted and rolled his eyes. A thick bandage was wrapped around his stomach, visible under the clean, white shirt he was wearing. The shirt was folded up slightly so Tala could keep an eye out for any blood soaking through. Other than that, the younger Russian just looked tired, aside from a few faint bruises here and there. "I'm just glad you're back here safe," Kai said, reaching for Hilary's hand. Hilary took Kai's hand and held it. She smiled at him but it didn't quite reach her eyes. Kai noticed and frowned slightly in concern. "What's wrong?" he asked quietly.

"I feel like it's my fault you got hurt," Hilary whispered.

Kai's thumb stroked her hand comfortingly, and he shook his head. "No."

"But if I was stronger..."

"You're stronger than you think. I saw what you did with Black Dranzer. It takes guts to stand up to him the way you did. That wasn't the act of a weak person, Hilary," Kai said, then glanced over at Ray. "Are you and Driger alright?"

Ray nodded, "Yeah, fine. Look, Kai, about Boris. I'm sorry. He wouldn't have gotten away if I hadn't interfered."

Kai looked away. "I'll just have to get him another time. No matter where he goes, I'll find him."

"I know you wanted it over though," Ray commented.

Kai shrugged. "I doubt he'll try anything else for a while now. His plans have failed too many times. He needs a new strategy."

"I guess. But he's still a threat and you guys aren't free of him yet," Ray pointed out.

"We'll survive," Kai said and looked back at Hilary. "I'm the one who should be apologising anyway. It's because of me that you, Mariah and Cassie were taken. And there of all places..."

"What is that place anyway?" Hilary asked.

Kai glanced hesitantly at Tala, in time to see the red-head looking back at him. Tala nodded and Kai sighed. "It's called Chekov Monastery and it's the birth place of the Biovolt Corporation. Years ago, it was used as a testing site for numerous experiments, including the creation and manipulation of bit beasts. Black Dranzer was created there." He paused and both Tala and Bryan looked at him, wondering if he'd go any further. Kai swallowed. "It's also the place where my mother was murdered..." he cleared his throat, "Right in front of me."

"Oh my gosh," Hilary gasped, covering her mouth.

Kai closed his eyes. "So now you know. That's why I lost it so badly in there. Like I said before, that place is evil."

"How's Dranzer?" Ray asked Kai.

Kai's brow furrowed slightly in guilt. "He'll be okay. Just needs time to rest."

"That's good," Ray replied.

"At least that's something..." Kai murmured.

"You shouldn't be so hard on yourself," Ray commented.

"So everyone keeps telling me..." Kai mumbled. He opened his eyes again as Tala returned to his bedside, this time with a needle in hand. Kai watched quietly as Tala cleaned his arm and prepared the needle.

"For the pain," the red-head offered as explanation. "It'll help you sleep too."

Kai grunted and closed his eyes. "You just want to keep me here so I don't disappear to train."

"Or try going after Boris again, yes," Tala confirmed, sliding the needle in under Kai's skin and injecting the contents into his bloodstream.

"Boris is long gone," Kai told him. "I have no interest in chasing a ghost right now."

"Well I'm just making sure," Tala replied, disposing of the needle safely. Ray turned his head and moments later a truck could be heard pulling up.

After a short while, Spencer came in and joined them. "How are you holding up, Kai?" he asked.

Kai opened his eyes and lifted a heavy hand. "Tala's abusing his play-doctor role and drugging me," he said, pointing. Tala glared at him.

Spencer smirked and shook his head. "You know it's for your own good, Kai. You take being a difficult patient too far anyway." Kai rolled his eyes and then promptly shut them. "Just take it easy," Spencer told him.

"Mm."

Tala looked over at Spencer expectantly. "So?"

"It's too early to say. The vet will be in touch but he's stable now," Spencer told him.

Kai's eyes shot open and he was sitting up in an instant. "Czar!" he gasped, his groggy mind only just clearing enough to remember. "He's not going to die, is he?"

"Oi, lie back down before you do yourself more damage," Tala snapped, but Kai ignored him.

"Kai, settle down, there's nothing we can do right now," Spencer pointed out.

Kai made a move as if he was going to leave his bed. "If that bastard has killed my dog, there'll be hell to pay!"

"Kai, you need to rest," Hilary put in worriedly.

"But, Czar-" Kai began.

"Czar will be fine," Tala insisted, hoping he was right. "He's as stubborn as you are. He'll pull through."

"Are you being a mother hen again?" Ian asked, sticking his head in the door.

"Oh, if you're not going to say anything helpful then go away," Tala snapped. "I've got enough to deal with right now with just him."

"Hmph," Kai snorted.

"You so sound like someone's mother," Ian replied sticking his tongue out at Tala.

"Well how about I come over there and smack you then?" Tala snarled. "Seriously, Ian, give it a rest."

Ian snickered. "You know what I've wondered?" he asked and Tala resisted the urge to crack his knuckles as he looked at the smaller boy. "If you're the mom," Ian began, checking the coast was clear for his escape.

"Ian, watch yourself," Bryan advised, knowing Tala's temper was likely to boil over at any minute.

"A well timed jump would shut your head in that door," Ray commented.

Ian continued regardless, "Then who's the dad?"

Three, two, one, Kai counted down in his head.

"That's IT!" Tala bellowed flying at Ian with his hands stretched out. "I'm gonna strangle you until you turn blue and then feed you to Kai's cat!"

"Hey, leave my cat alone," Kai said.

Ian ducked out the room and tore down the hallway cackling madly. "Mommy's gone crazy!"

"STOP CALLING ME THAT!" Tala screamed.

As they left the room, Kai sighed and rubbed at his forehead. "I hope they keep running," he mumbled, starting to feel the effects of the drug Tala had given him.

"Is it just me or did the temperature dramatically drop in here?" Ray asked the others.

Bryan looked at him. "Eh?"

Ray shrugged, "Just me then? Room feels colder."

"It'll be Tala," Kai mumbled. "Check the glass... Bet it's frozen inside..."

Ray moved to look at the window then faced Kai again. "You'd win that bet."

"Hn..." A small, sleepy smile graced Kai's lips for a few seconds. His hold on Hilary's hand slackened.

Hilary smiled tenderly and placed Kai's hand back down at his side. Leaning forward, she then kissed him gently on the forehead, before turning to the others. "Let's leave him in peace," she said and quietly ushered everyone out of the room, closing the door behind her with a gentle click.

000

The night was spent in uncertainty about Czar's condition and even Bryan, who'd never gotten along with the husky, was concerned about the old dog's condition. The next morning they received some word about Czar's condition, but it wasn't good. Kai picked up on the atmosphere the moment he stepped out of his room, still feeling sore but a lot better than he had been the day before. "What is it?" he asked the group.

The group looked over at Kai and there was pause before Spencer sighed. "The vet called. Czar's still fighting but it's not looking good," he told the younger teen.

Kai looked away and swallowed. "I...I want to go see him."

The Blitzkrieg Boys looked at each other and then Spencer stood up. "Alright, but there's not anything anyone can do. It's up to Czar now." Kai nodded sadly. "Alright, I'll take you," Spencer told Kai.

Kai nodded and went to get ready, returning a few minutes later. "If the vet wants to put him down, then he's coming home with us," Kai stated. Spencer nodded, picking up his keys and heading out to the truck.

"I hope Czar will be okay," Hilary commented quietly.

"It's not looking good..." Tala replied watching Kai leave with Spencer.

"I never liked that dog, but this..." Bryan commented. "I hope he did some serious damage to that bastard's arm."

Tala nodded. "I hate to think how Kai will react if Czar dies. So let's hope for a miracle."

"That's all we can do," Hilary commented sadly, looking at her hands clasped in her lap.

000

An hour passed before Spencer and Kai returned from the vets, bringing poor Czar with them. The dog was still in a bad way and Spencer had to carry him in. Kai was clearly upset and disappeared into his room once Spencer had placed Czar down carefully on the end of his bed. Spencer then left Kai's room, shutting the door behind him.

"How bad?" Tyson quietly asked Spencer.

"The vet did what he could, but there's a lot of damage," Spencer reported. "He suggested putting Czar to sleep. Said it would be the kind thing to do. But Kai refused and insisted that we bring Czar back with us." He sighed. "I don't know what to do. He hasn't spoken since we left."

"First the wolf back at the other base and now this..." Hilary murmured. "I still can't believe he left the other base and came all that way in time to help. How did he even know? It's amazing."

"Animals can do amazing things sometimes," Tala commented. "I don't think anyone knows how."

"Well I think Czar deserves a fighting chance, regardless of what the vet said and we should just hope for the best," Bryan commented, earning a weird look from Ian. "What?" he snarled in irritation.

"I thought you hated Czar?" Ian responded

"I did," Bryan shrugged. "But I never wanted him dead. Even all the times I said he should be put down because he snapped at me. You didn't see what he did to Boris, Ian. It was fucking amazing. Boris is going to have to suffer a very slow and painful death for what he did to Czar as a result. I'm thinking starved rats might be good." Tala couldn't help but snort darkly at the thought.

"Anyone wanna go in and see them both?" Spencer asked the group. Even if Kai didn't seem to want company right now, it would probably do him good.

"I'll go," Tala decided.

Spencer nodded. "Just watch yourself. I don't know what kind of mood he's in. Just that it's probably dangerous."

"I'll be fine," Tala replied as he headed for the door.

000

The fire crackled in the hearth as Tala entered Kai's room, which was otherwise silent. Kai was lying on the bed in front of Czar, watching the injured dog carefully with tired red eyes. One of Kai's hands rested gently over the bandaged bullet wound. Czar was sleeping. "What do you want, Tala?" Kai asked in a barely audible mumble.

"Did it not occur to you that maybe I'm worried about the pair of you?" Tala asked once he'd closed the door behind him.

"Hn," Kai grunted. He didn't even bother to look round at the other teen.

"How's he looking?" Tala asked quietly as he approached the bed.

"Better now that he's back here," Kai replied, stroking Czar's fur gently. "He's settled and I'm doing what I can to help him heal."

"And how are you doing?" Tala asked Kai pointedly.

Kai finally lifted his head to look back over his shoulder. "How do I look?"

"Like shit."

Kai snorted and closed his eyes. "Thanks..." A long moment passed in silence and Kai found himself starting to doze. As he did, he began to dream and saw everybody sitting together talking, or almost everyone. Tala wasn't there and Kai couldn't see Ray either. Bits of the conversation floated by, loud enough for him to hear. There were mentions of Czar and Kai himself. Then Ray's name was called and Kai found himself turning to look at Kenny who had spoken. But Kenny was looking right back at him. Why? He wasn't Ray. Kai suddenly sat up sharply on the bed, shaking his head a little. He frowned.

"Kai?" Tala asked in concern.

"Hm?" Kai looked round. "Oh, it's nothing. I just dozed off for a minute. I think it's the heat that's causing it."

"You look a little stunned," Tala commented.

"Weird dream," Kai offered vaguely as an excuse.

Tala raised an eyebrow expectantly, "Weird how?"

"Does it matter?"

Tala shrugged. "Guess not. But it seemed you reached that stage rather quickly. Maybe you should get some rest, Kai."

"Maybe," Kai mused. "But I can't. I have to watch over Czar. He's counting on me."

Tala sat down on the edge of the bed. "How about I watch over him for a while and you take a nap. I'll wake you if there's any change. You can't do anything if you pass out from exhaustion, Kai."

"You'd do that?" Kai asked.

Tala nodded. "You know, I think even Bryan would. He's wanting to feed Boris to starved rats in retaliation for what he did to Czar."

Kai smirked tiredly. "Yeah, that sounds like Bryan." He moved and made himself comfortable in the middle of the bed, grabbing a pillow from the top. Kai wanted to stay as close to Czar as possible, just in case anything happened. "Thanks, Tala," he sighed, closing his eyes. "I appreciate this."

"Don't mention it," Tala responded, hoping Kai could get as much sleep as possible. With worrying about Czar, recovering from his own wounds and still suffering the effects of Black Dranzer's takeover, Kai was more exhausted than he realised. It took him less than thirty seconds for his body to relax and a minute later before he was out like a light. Over on the bedside unit, Dranzer's bit lit up in a soft, contented glow which faded slowly. It appeared that Kai wasn't the only one who appreciated Tala's help.

000

"It's been quiet in there the whole time and they've been in there over an hour," Tyson commented boredly as he glanced over to the door. "D'you think everything's alright?"

"Are you brave enough to go find out?" Max asked, hoping to lighten the atmosphere a little.

"I'm not sure," Tyson muttered a little sheepishly. "Hey, Ray, he doesn't bother you, right? Why don't you check?"

"Cue the mocking chicken impressions," Lee muttered before looking at his friend. "Ray?"

Ray looked up at Lee and smiled a little after a moment. "I'm sure we'd hear something if either of them needed any help."

"But Tyson's feeling nosy," Max giggled.

Ray closed his eyes and concentrated on sensing for Kai's feelings. He knew the older teen would be upset, they all were, but he needed a little more to go on than that. Ray's attempts were met with a gentle resistance, accompanied by gentle crooning sounds. Ray gave up and looked at Tyson. "I think we should just give him his space for now," he told the world champ.

Tyson looked curious. "Oh?" he asked. "What makes you say that?"

"I just don't think barging in there is a good idea," Ray replied.

Tyson sighed, "If you say so. I'm just worried, that's all."

"Tala's with him," Ray pointed out.

"I suppose," Tyson agreed.

"Maybe Kai's sleeping," Max suggested and started to tinker with Draciel absentmindedly.

000

The day passed in near silence and there was still no word from Tala or Kai. It began to get late and the younger teens started to doze as they waited. Eventually, Kai's bedroom door opened with a quiet creak and a pair of mismatched eyes looked out into the room. Czar's claws clicked gently on the wooden floor as he left Kai's room and moved over to where Hilary was. Stopping in front of her, Czar nuzzled her hand and licked it. Hilary looked up and gasped before moving to the floor and wrapping her arms around Czar's neck. "Oh, Czar, you're okay!" she exclaimed tearfully, rousing the others to full awareness.

"Alright! He made it!" Tyson cheered, moving over to pet the dog that was wagging his tail.

"But how?" Max asked, astonished. Catching movement out the corner of his eye, he looked round and saw Tala and Kai standing in the doorway. Kai was leaning against the doorframe with his arms folded and a relieved smile on his face.

"How about you, Kai?" Ray asked. "Are you okay?"

Kai nodded. "Yeah, I'm alright. Just a bit tired is all."

Tala clapped him on the shoulder. "You did good."

"I didn't do much," Kai replied. "It was mostly up to Czar."

"Either way it's great Czar pulled through," Bryan commented.

"Can you believe he's been worried sick about Czar?" Ian asked Kai.

"Barely," Kai replied with a smirk. "But it won't be long until Czar is back to full strength and terrorising Bryan once again."

"He's doing that well so soon?" Cassie asked.

"Czar's a trooper," Kai told her. "Look at the difference in him now compared to earlier."

"It's amazing," Cassie commented. Tala nodded in agreement, as they all watched Czar enjoying being made a fuss of.

"Here's a thought," Kai spoke up a moment later. "Now that things seem to be settling down, why don't we go back to the other base? Get out of Moscow and relax for a bit?"

"Hey, that sounds great," Tyson agreed.

"We can see the puppies again," Max cheered.

Kai nodded. "We've got friends looking after all the dogs just now, but I'm sure they'll be happy to see us."

"Oh yeah? Who?" Tyson asked.

"We should probably get in touch with Mr Dickenson again and give him another update," Kenny commented.

"Good call, Chief," Tyson agreed.

"Some of the kids who were also involved with Biovolt volunteered to help us out with the dogs while we travel," Tala explained in answer to Tyson's question.

"I'll go call them now and let them know we're going back there in the morning," Spencer said and left the room to do so.

000

"I think he's even recovered from that fight with the wolf," Bryan commented about Czar as the group arrived at the more rural base the next day.

"I can't believe you actually fed him that steak this morning," Ian commented. "It's not gonna be long before he's back to his old self and you're going to hate him again. And then we'll all have to endure your complaints about Czar having it in for you."

"No, you won't," Bryan scoffed.

"Yes, we will," Ian insisted. "You're so predictable!"

"If you two don't stop that, I'm gonna bang your heads together," Hilary told them, earning a cheer and encouragement to do so from Mariah and Cassie. Czar barked and wagged his tail and Kai laughed. It seemed the husky agreed with the girls.

Getting inside, a few former Biovolt kids greeted them and reported that everything was fine. They left soon after and the group got reacquainted with the rural base. It was a lot more comfortable than the city one. The only difference this time was that Kai's cat came back with them along with Mariah, Lee, Wyatt and Zeo. "It's great to be back here," Tyson commented brightly. "I like the feel of this place."

"It's home," Kai mused contentedly, before turning to Hilary. "Come with me a minute?" He held out his hand to her. Hilary smiled and took Kai's hand in agreement. She didn't know what he wanted but she was happy to spend time with him. Leaving the others to themselves, Kai took Hilary through to one of the back rooms where the puppies were. The litter were all yapping loudly as the two teens walked in and Kai smiled. It seemed like so long since he'd last seen them. He glanced at Hilary. "I had a thought," he told her, sitting down and immediately getting surrounded by pups.

"Oh?" Hilary asked as she carefully joined him and petted the puppies whenever they were close enough.

Kai nodded. "Well, you were here when these guys were born and you helped out a lot with them. But now they're old enough to leave their mother so... Would you like to keep one?"

Hilary gasped. "Really?" she asked excitedly. As it happened, a short while before leaving for Russia, she had been asking her parents if she could have a pet and they'd told her she could. She hadn't told the guys because she'd planned to surprise them. She'd only told Cassie about it. "I'd love one!"

Kai smiled and indicated to the surrounding litter. "Take your pick then." Hilary stood up and moved away from the litter to see which of the pups would approach her first. Kai watched quietly to see what would happen. Most of the puppies were too busy playing amongst themselves and for a moment Kai was worried that none of them seemed all that interested in Hilary. But then one of the three chocolate brown pups scampered over to her and jumped up to rest his front paws on her knees. He wagged his tail and yapped playfully. Like Czar, this pup had mismatched eyes. One blue, and one brown. "Looks like you've got a taker," Kai commented.

Hilary crouched down to cuddle her new puppy. "I still need to think of a name for you. But you've got your father's eyes," Hilary told the puppy, before gasping. "I know the perfect name. Kobe."

"Kobe, huh?" Kai asked then nodded, "Sounds good to me. He's the only one in the litter with different coloured eyes I think. He'll probably grow up to be as big as Czar."

"That big, huh?" Hilary asked.

Kai shrugged. "It's just a hunch. I'm glad you're happy with him."

Hilary smiled at Kai brightly. "Thank you, Kai."

"You're welcome. I wanted you to choose first, but the other puppies need homes too. I wonder if Cassie or Mariah will be interested."

"I know Cassie will, but I dunno about Mariah. We'll have to ask her," Hilary commented.

000

As the others talked, Ian going between winding up Tala to winding up Bryan, Max chatting with Zeo and Wyatt, Cassie and Mariah speaking between them, Ray stood quietly, deep in thought while Lee watched him in concern. Ray hadn't really said much since they got the girls back and he knew that was bugging Lee, but he was trying to understand something. All his life, as long as he could remember, he'd had good senses. It came with being part demon. But they'd never been THIS good. At first he'd thought it was a result of the machine's control. But that device was broken. It was ancient history. Which meant that couldn't be it. So why had his senses suddenly improved like that? There was a soft sound behind him and Ray recognized Tyson's scent, along with the crisp smell of snow. Tyson was trying to be quiet, so obviously he was being sneaky. Which meant he was about to prank someone. The teen's proximity told Ray that he was the target. "Don't even think about it, Ty-" Ray began warningly before breaking off as a large handful of snow was shoved in his face from behind, getting in his mouth as well because he'd been speaking. Ray growled as he looked over his shoulder at the world champ. "Tyson..." he intoned with a dangerous edge to his voice.

Tyson's laughter stopped. "Uh-oh..."

000

"I don't see any reason why she wouldn't," Hilary continued to Kai, completely unaware of what was going on back with the others. Kai shivered suddenly as goose-bumps raced up his arms, making the hairs stand on end. He hesitantly touched his face and frowned. "Kai?" Hilary asked in concern. "Are you okay?"

Kai blinked and looked at her, "Yeah. Just a cold breeze I think."

"But there isn't one here. You're not sick, are you?" Hilary asked, moving to check Kai's temperature. "Hmm, you definitely don't have a fever."

"My face just felt cold," Kai told her. "Can't you feel it?"

"No," Hilary answered, frowning in confusion, before turning her head as a lot of shouting started up outside. It sounded like Tyson, but he was getting farther and farther away. "What on earth?" Hilary mumbled.

000

"Ray, let go of my jacket!" Tyson complained as Ray shoved him along towards the door before tripping him up to land face first in the snow outside.

"You wanna play in the snow so much, then build a snow man!" Ray told him before slamming the door shut.

"I got snow in my mouth!" Tyson complained outside while Ray looked at the security system's controls.

"Good!" Ray called back. "It's called Karma!" Ray didn't know the codes, but turning it on was simple enough with the touch of a button, so he did.

"Let me back in!" Tyson whined after trying to open the door and failing.

"Sorry, I don't know the code to unlock it!" Ray called back, not sounding sorry at all.

"It's freezing out here!" Tyson complained.

"Then build an igloo!" Ray retorted before walking away from the door. "Next time I tell you not to do something, don't do it!"

000

"What are they doing out there?" Hilary asked, wondering if she should go check.

Kai stood up. "Better go see," he said and headed through.

The sight that greeted Kai was several members of the group laughing and looking in the direction of the door. Tyson could be heard banging on the door from outside and complaining, but nobody seemed to be in a hurry to let him back in again. Ray was rinsing his mouth out at the sink and paying no attention to Tyson at all. "Oh, Kai," Max spoke up, spotting the Bladebreakers' captain arriving with Hilary close behind. "Tyson wanted to play with snow."

"Snow?" Kai asked. "What did he do?"

"He face-washed Ray," Max answered. "So Ray told him to play outside and locked him out."

Kai smirked in amusement, but on the inside he was shocked. Face-washed? So Ray had been given a face full of snow at the same time Kai had suddenly felt cold. Don't tell me... Am I...? Can I actually...? Kai shook his head. There was no way.

"Wait, you mean inside?" Hilary asked. "Tyson brought snow inside? Hasn't anyone told him you do that outside? What does he think he's playing at?" Hilary then spotted the melting snow on the floor. "He should have to clean that up. It's his mess," she commented.

"I'm sure he'd love to clean it up, except that he's literally stuck outside because I don't know how to disable the security," Ray commented as he joined them.

"And we think it's too funny to unlock it right now," Bryan added, still snickering. "We should throw Ian out too and change the access code."

"Zalupa," Ian snapped.

"Then stop being such an insufferable pest," Bryan told him.

"Oh, hey, Kai. Why not ask them now?" Hilary asked.

"Uh, yeah," Kai agreed. "Mariah, Cassie? I wanted to ask you something."

"What is it?" Cassie asked as both girls turned to face him.

Kai smiled and pointed over his shoulder with a thumb. "Want a puppy?" he asked bluntly.

"I'd love one, but I'll have to phone my parents and find out if I'm allowed," Cassie answered.

Mariah didn't really have any issues with parental permission, but she did live with her older brother, so she turned to him. "Lee?" she asked sweetly before clapping her hands together and giving him the puppy eyes. "Pretty please?"

Lee rubbed the back of his neck. "Like I could say no, Mariah," he answered with a smile. Truthfully, he was actually too scared to.

"Yay!" Mariah cheered. "Thank you!"

"What about you, Wyatt?" Kai asked.

"Me? Really?" Wyatt asked, surprised. "Sure! Thank you, Kai."

"You're welcome. Consider it a welcome back present. Besides, they need homes and I'd rather they went to people I know and can trust to look after them."

Wyatt nodded, smiling brightly. "I'll be sure to take good care of the puppy."

Kai nodded. "I know you will." Glancing round the room, Kai's eyes suddenly fell on Zeo. Realising he hadn't really spoken to the boy Kai took a breath and walked by him. "A word," he said as he passed, heading through to one of the halls. Zeo nodded and followed Kai without a word. Once they were on their own, Kai leaned against the wall and looked at Zeo. "...I never did thank you for what you did," he began calmly, "Back at the monastery. That took guts."

"I couldn't just leave you guys," Zeo replied.

"But you had no idea what you were walking into," Kai told him. "You could have been killed."

"I'm a robot, Kai. Remember?" Zeo responded softly.

Kai shook his head. "No. I was wrong. What you did back there, helping us out when we needed it, despite the danger to yourself, was human. Nothing less."

Zeo looked at Kai, surprised by his words. "That really means a lot to me, Kai. Especially from you. And thank you for returning Cerberus."

Kai looked down. "I was angry before. I wanted you to learn how it felt. But I realise now that I was wrong."

"I have already forgiven you for that," Zeo replied. "Can you ever forgive me for taking Dranzer from you before?"

"It's all in the past now," Kai replied. "I'd like to forget about it and move on."

Zeo nodded. "I'd like that too," he commented and offered Kai his hand. "Can we maybe start over?"

Kai accepted the offer and shook. "Sure." He smirked. "I do have one condition though."

"You do?" Zeo asked, puzzled.

Kai nodded. "Don't suppose you could do me a favour and give a puppy a good home?"

Zeo blinked, surprised that Kai trusted him again enough for that and smiled, nodding his head. "I'd love to." With the change in his father, Zeo knew the man would permit it.

"That's what I wanted to hear," Kai smirked and nodded back towards the door. "Go on through and pick one."

"Thank you, Kai!" Zeo replied keenly with as much cheer as child on Christmas morning. Kai chuckled quietly and they headed back through.

000

With permission, Cassie had contacted her parents and spoke to them about having a puppy. When she was permitted to have one she selected a male black and white puppy with blue eyes who she promptly named George. Mariah had selected a grey and white female puppy who she named Bao, which meant precious treasure. Wyatt also chose a female puppy. She had black markings and Wyatt named her Renee. Zeo's puppy was male and mostly black and Zeo named him Orthrus, after Cerberus' brother in Greek mythology.

With everyone in high spirits about the puppies, Kai decided to take pity on Tyson and let the world champ back inside. "Thank you! Finally! SOMEBODY had some heart!" Tyson stated loudly, giving Ray a pointed look which went ignored. "Thanks again, Kai. So, what did I miss?"

"Not much," Kai told him, handing him a blanket since he was probably cold. Tyson thanked Kai and wrapped the blanket around himself before settling with the others.

000

After some time to relax, the gang headed back to Japan while Lee and Mariah headed for home in China. The Blitzkrieg Boys stayed behind to pick up their training and try find out what happened to Boris. Their search when they returned to the monastery had turned up nothing. All the puppies had to spend time in quarantine before joining their new masters, but it was all arranged for without a hitch and all that was left was to wait for their next adventure.

Translation

Zalupa = dickhead

BONUS AUTHOR NOTES

Dragon: Shall I give them the start of the prologue as a sneak peek?

Phoenix: Aye go for it

Dragon: The actual prologue is longer, this is just a snippet.

PROLOGUE

After the fall of BEGA the BBA began a slow recovery. Tyson, Hilary, Kenny and Daichi helped in Japan while Max went back to America with his mother to help there. Ray returned home to China with White Tiger X and Kai headed back to Russia with Tala and the rest of the Blitzkrieg Boys. Most of the bladers kept in touch, including with the other teams, but then Kai disappeared without any word.

After six months, the authorities called off the search, finding only a single item to show that Kai had even been around. His beyblade, including Dranzer's bit chip. Knowing that Kai would never leave his beloved bit beast behind and considering the length of time that had passed, the gang had no choice but to accept that Kai had died.

It fell to Kenny to pass on the news to all the others.