Hi Folks! As I promised here is the final chapter. God, I can't believe I've finish this one, too! I'm so glad and prideful. Here is everything what I like about a story: excitement, action, friendship, a little humor, a happy ending and most of all LOVE! Yay, I hope you'll enjoy it! :)

Disclaimer: I do not own beyblade, only the plot and my OC character (the devil man)

Warning: I guess it's unnecessary if you've come this far reading this story

Sorry for any grammar mistakes, hehe :P

Let's not waste more time, let's get on with the last chapter! ;D

- Chapter 5 -

Black against Darkness

"I've already told you and I say it again: you are not coming with me."

"And I said I'm NOT staying at home!"

"Can't you comprehend that it's too dangerous?"

"Tch, like I care. We've gone through many things before."

"But it's not like before. This time it's different."

"And that's exactly why we're not gonna let you face this alone, Kai. Dragoon and I will stand by your side, and our team, too."

"I don't need help, Kinomiya. I can do this alone." came the aloof response from Kai.

"And what do you expect me to do here? Should I sit home here and knit, or what?" the blunette crossed his arms as he looked snappily at his taller captain.

Kai couldn't help revealing a smug smirk on his lips. "Do that. I don't care."

"Kaiii…"

"Kinomiya, just stay he – "

"I won't stay home and don't Kinomiya here for me!" Takao stomped his foot in a tantrum.

The two bladers were glaring hard at each other now.

A tired, drawling sigh escaped from Max, Rei and Kenny. They were all dressed up properly now and were standing in the hallway of the dojo, ready to go rescue Gou… that is, if they didn't have a tiny little problem. The two love-bird-members of their team, if they could call that, were going under a quarrel again. They wondered just on the earth could fortune make such a big mistake to put these two together… a real mystery.

Rei was the first who got tired of them, and spoke mildly. "Guys…"

But evidently neither Kai nor Takao paid attention to him.

"Why are you stubborn?" Kai looked at the blunette with flustered incomprehension.

"ME?!" rose his tone high Takao. "You're the one who always insist to confront things on his own because there is no way you would allow help from anyone. Oh now, the mighty Kai Hiwatari would never do such a things or he would lose his pride! You think this is your own private-business which you have to resolve. Well I have news for you Mr. Smarty-pants, it's just as much my care as yours."

"Guys!"

"It's my past and my issue to solve this. I don't want to drag you into this." pinned down Kai flatly.

"Well sorry but I have to correct you that since Gou is as much my responsibility as yours I have all the right to go after him and save him from that monster's clutches. And in that you can't stop me." Takao leaned close up to Kai's stiff expression challengingly. He knew he had a point there, and he was signalling with a high-handed look for Kai that he was going to stick to his guns, no matter what the dual haired said or did.

Kai was about to argue back but this time Rei cut in - who presumably went off the hooks by now - and over-shouted both of them.

"WOULD YOU TWO SHUT YOUR TRAP?"

Surprisingly, the two rivals went dead quiet and stared bewilderedly at the raven haired male. Even Max and Kenny flinched at the immensely harsh tone that was unfamiliar from the nekojin. Who would have thought that the always peace-loving Rei Kon possessed such temper? It seemed even the raven haired had his limits.

"Finally." Rei blew out a sigh as he let off the steam from his head. At least he managed to get their full attention. "Now, for aught I care, you can crab each other all you want till Christmas, I don't care, but you should think first of all of Gou. We have to find him quick before it's too late, and soon it's dawning. So if you could just leave in abeyance your 'little bickering' for a while it would be our pleasure."

"And I'm sorry Kai, but this time I think Takao has right. We're a team, so we're coming with you." added Max coyly and gave a start when Kai's fierce stare cast over him.

Takao shot Kai a smug glance form the corner of his eye. 'Heh, one point for me.'

The captain looked over at his teammates dismissively, eventually at Takao's inflexible expression, then he gave in. "Fine. Do whatever you want." he snapped haughtily before turned on his heels to go for his black jacket.

Takao's face wilted down and looked sadly after him. He may achieved what he wanted but somehow he still didn't feel pleased with it. He just didn't understand why was Kai acting so dismissive again?

"Do any of you have a clue where should we start looking for them?" came the reasonable question from Kenny.

Damn it, they hadn't even thought about that yet. They all went deep in their mind.

"I guess I know." spoke up suddenly Kai firmly as he came back shrugging into his jacket. "Come with me."

He walked resolutely to the door. The other friends exchanged confused looks and shrugged their shoulders. They followed their captain's lead without questions, trusting him, like always.

They walked two hours when they finally reached their destination. It was already dawning; the first beams of the Sun peeked over the buildings and the far-off hills.

"Kai, why did we come here of all places?" asked Rei wonderingly as he looked up at the tall building in front of them.

They had left the city behind them and were standing under a mountain, deep in the forest. The old building was a religious abbey, which seemingly must have been deserted for ages now. The green lianas had long begun to shin up the walls. It wasn't far as big as the Balkov Abbey they'd seen back in Russia, but it was also built by stones, and was creepy, rigid, and dark. The entrance was shielded by a huge oak door.

Takao blinked wide-eyed; he lived in Bay City since he was born but he never knew about this old abbey. When did Kai discovered it?

However, Kai seemingly wasn't intending to give any explanation, just stared at the building with hard, cautious gaze, and frowned.

"Kai tell us already why do you think Gou is here?" insisted Takao scanning the dual haired's tense back with anxiety. He had to step closer to him when Kai spoke quietly.

"The most dastardly way to bring to heels your enemy is if you choose a place that awakens bad memories in him." he furrowed his eyebrows and clenched a fist. Then he turned back at his friends. "Inside we must not lose one other's tracks."

They all nodded in union, but Kenny peeped up tremulously.

"Shouldn't we go back and call help?"

"There is no time for that." rebuked Kai and Kenny nodded shuddering.

Just when Kai reached out a hand to grab the handle the door suddenly cracked open. They all froze with fear but Kai only narrowed his eyes. Whatever was waiting for them inside they couldn't see it because it was so dark, but at first sight the door seemed like it opened itself. Gruesome. Kai swallowed hard; it was like they were about to step into a mouse-trap but they had no other chance.

Takao snuck silently close behind Kai and together they stepped inside the main lounge. They had only a brief second to look around when the ground suddenly opened under their feet and the next moment they disappeared with a long-drawn scream.

"Kai!"

"Takao!"

Their friends rushed to the hole – that is, if the door hadn't shut close before their nose.

"Ugh… shit, it's locked!" Max pulled his weight strongly against the oak door.

"We won't come through this." stated frustrated Rei when he realised even if they all pushed with full force won't be able to break in.

"I told you we should call help! We have to go back!" yammered with panic Kenny.

"We can't leave them here!" protested Max. "We have to figure out something to get in."

"There is only one way now." declared Rei firmly as he stepped back a little and took out Driger and his launcher.

"Good thought!" cried Max.

He and Kenny quickly followed Rei's example and took out their own blades, too. They counted three then let it rip the exact moment, charging at the door with synch force. At first sight it seemed like an ordinary door, which they could crash in no time, but they were wrong. A dark power shielded the door protectively, making it harder for the intruders to get in. The three blades could hardly score through the shield, only step by step.

~ * ~ Ö ~ * ~

"Ugh… my knee." moaned Takao. Despite he hurt his left leg he was glad to discover that the rest of his limbs had fallen on something soft. Blind as a bat in the darkness, Takao couldn't figure out right away but whatever it was it was warm and comfy, and was sprawled under him. When his rational mind started functioning again and was about to wonder what had caught him up a very familiar, raspy voice groaned up.

"Takao… would you please get off of me?"

Takao's eyes bulged. He quickly crawled off from Kai's back, blushing horribly. "S-sorry. Are you alright?" he offered a hand to his teammate and pulled him to his feet.

"I'm fine." Kai grunted and brushed off the dust from his clothes.

When he turned to Takao that was when the bluenette realized how close they were actually. Kai's crimson eyes intrinsically shone in the darkness. Takao was glad that it was so dark that Kai couldn't see his burning face. "Where do you think we are?"

"In the basement or something, deep under the hills." Kai stated and eyed the large hole which they slid through.

"Hey look! There is light!" Takao pointed towards the corner of the corridor and Kai turned around.

Indeed; along the stone wall porches set in lines and in them blue-fire gave light along the way. It wasn't much but still more than nothing.

"This corridor definitely leads somewhere." made the guess Takao but instead of going ahead anon he looked at the older male, waiting for his captain's command.

"Hn." Kai frowned at the mysterious path. Considering their chances it's not like they had much options. "Let's go then." he suggested with a nod, and together they started walking forward with wary steps.

They knew there was not much time to waste away, however, they didn't dare to speed up their space. They walked close to the wall with one hand groping along, not wanting to rush into another secret trap. They also realized very soon that this corridor was longer than they'd first expected, and since Takao couldn't bear silence way too long he thought it was a good opportunity to discuss a few things while they walked.

"Say, Kai?"

"Hm?" the dual haired signed with a brief glance back at Takao that he was listening.

"Since when did you know?"

"Know what?"

"About your new power. You know, flaming body – dawns something on you?"

"Oh, that." Kai droned in a lazy tone. A small, wicked grin escaped over his lips. "For a while now?"

"And just how long exactly?" Takao asked curiously, though he sounded rather suspicious as he arched an eyebrow.

This time Kai turned back his head at him and the smirk on his face was smug. "Longer than that math test you wrote."

Takao made a very impressive mimicry of a fish out of water. His whole face went red like a boiled lobster. "W-what?! You read my test? How could you?" he stuttered indignantly.

"Like I would care to spy your niggling handwriting. I have my own exams to bother with." Kai said dismissively. "You skipped your lessons last time you got home late, remember? Your teacher consigned your test to me to give it to you, and she also asked me to help improve your poor grades. I don't even understand how could someone write such lousy test."

Takao grumbled to himself huffily. Typical Kai; he always had to sharpen his weaknesses plainly. Takao guessed that even Mr Smart-ass must have his own weaknesses in school subjects. But right now he couldn't get over that he was criticised unashamedly. "Still, it's not fair that you peeked into my test. You're a snooper."

"Hn." Kai shrugged his shoulders. Seemingly, he didn't feel any regret.

For a while they didn't say more to each other. Then, surprisingly, Kai spoke up in a malicious voice.

"As for that, even your new power is not a bad thing, either." when he turned back this time he cast a wink at Takao, adding an open seductive look to him.

If red colour could glow then Takao would look now like a firebug. He opened and closed his mouth several times, but was unable to say anything. Kai was mighty pleased that his goal shot right below the belt of Takao's ego.

To ease his embarrassment somewhat, and to gain back the normal colour of his face, Takao quickly changed the subject.

"What was that grousing back in the house?... I mean you were more a grouch compared to your usual mood. Why didn't you want us to come with you?" he pursed his eyebrows slightly.

"What does it matter? You're here now right?" Kai said dryly but Takao didn't miss the frustrated sigh that escaped from him.

"For me it does matter!" he argued back feverishly and felt a little annoyed when he saw that Kai closed himself behind his mask again. "Kai, we're a team, I'm your friend… well, that too… You can tell me anything… Please, I can feel there is something that bothers you."

Takao didn't notice when Kai stopped abruptly and almost bumped into him. In the dim light of porches Takao could only see Kai's back and his lowered face. For a while Kai didn't say a word and Takao was about to regret that he was so bounder to harass him with questions when the dual haired didn't feel like sharing his feelings with him. He even feared that Kai suddenly would yell at him for being so nosy again, but when he spoke Takao was surprised to hear how broken his voice sounded.

"I didn't want to involve you into this mess… and Gou, either." Kai's massive shoulders slumped. "It's my fault that you guys got in danger. If it hadn't been my dark past you wouldn't be here now."

By the guilt in Kai's voice Takao was quick to figure out where was this confess going, and he wasn't going to let Kai put all sin onto his shoulders. He couldn't care less if Kai pushed him away – he grabbed his arm and forced him to look into his eyes. It was shocking how lost and sad those crimson eyes looked; the immovable fire had waned in them. Takao knew that Kai's only weakness, which could suck out his amazing power, was his great fear that some of them could get hurt because of him. But he knew that Kai was stronger than his fears and that's why he wasn't going to give up on him ever. He was looking genuinely and determined at the dual haired male. "No Kai. You managed to push through those nightmares many times before, so don't lose that spirit of yours now. That's what creep wants."

"I know but…"

"And what's happening now is not your fault, either." the bluenette placed his palm on Kai's painted cheek. "Everyone makes mistakes but you are a good person, Kai Hiwatari. You should learn to give me some credit and start believing in yourself… because I do."

Kai closed his eyes and leant his forehead on Takao's with a sigh. The younger teen put his hands comfortingly on Kai's arms. "Takao… it amazes me how wise you can be while other times you're a total numskull."

A cheeky smile crocked on the corner of Takao's lips. "That's my speciality. I'm smart when it comes about lightening up your lethargic mood, but being always serious and commanding is not my cup of coffee. That's yours. My type is to be bothersome and my job is to tug that wet-blanket mood of yours off by fooling around."

A reluctant growl left Kai's mouth and Takao chuckled. Kai's locks tickled softly his eyelids. "Admit it, you would miss it if I weren't like that. Though, I can still change on you, if you want."

"Hm, don't." Kai hummed. "Never change the person you are." he opened his eyes and they gazed each other deep. Kai came to a decision he'd wanted to do for a long time now and finally had the courage to do it. He leant his head lower, towards Takao's lips when –

"Hey look!" the bluenette cried up suddenly.

"What?" Kai blinked dazed and turned behind where Takao pointed. He frowned.

They didn't notice that they'd come to the end of the long corridor, which led into a huge portico. In the middle of the room they spotted a small silhouette lying on the floor.

"Gou!" Takao started running.

"Takao wait!" Kai admonished while he hurried after his partner. His narrow eyes scanned suspiciously every corner and the shadows behind the gigantic columns where the light of porches didn't reach in. This is not good. He thought and an ominous anticipation crept up his spine.

Takao kneeled down and pulled the unconscious Gou in his arms. "He's okay, just sleeping." he ascertained with relief, and squeezed one of his little hands. "His hands are cold. We have to get him out of here fast." he looked up at Kai worriedly.

Kai quickly took off his long jacket and handed it over Takao. "Here, put this over him."

Takao wrapped the jacket over Gou like a little bundle. Standing up they looked over the corridor where they'd come from.

"We can't go back that way. We won't be able to climb up on that hole." shook his head Takao.

Kai bit on his lower lip. He also knew what did that mean, and as much he hated the idea they had no choice. "We have to find another way out." he said and his gaze went searching for another exit. He was sure there was somewhere a stair that led up from here, and he wasn't mistaken when he spotted a gate between two porches. Cool relief washed through him. "That must be the exit. Let's go." he gestured for Takao.

They barely made a few steps, however, when a malevolent voice rang in the resounding portico. "Going somewhere? The party is just about to start." behind a column a dark figure stepped afore. In the shadow, with his long cape, he looked like a giant bat. His slit eyes glowed evil. "Isn't it ironic that you fall in the same trap over and over again? Kai Hiwatari. This place is gonna be your grave, and your friends' as well." a deadly smile crossed over the man's lips.

Takao glared hard behind Kai's back while he held Gou protectively in his arms. However, even that wasn't closely as dangerous as Kai's, who revealed his most wrathful glare that could smelt stones, and his fists clenched tight at his sides. That was it; he was going to put an end to this nightmare once and for all, right here, right now. He wouldn't let that monster to even near Takao or Gou.

"We will see who's gonna be sent into grave." he growled threateningly and stepped forward. He wasted no more time and took out his ripcord and launcher, and the next moment he sent Dranzer into battle.

'Dranzer, my old pal, please win this for us.' Kai pleaded silently.

The blue blade spun dauntlessly towards the dark blade that rushed just as rampageously unto it. Orange and red ray of fire shot out from inside the phoenix blade…

Then CLASH!

The two blades slapped against each other and Dranzer was monstrously shoved back. Kai winced, as if he could feel every hit on his skin that his blade suffered, and clenched his teeth. He had to hold on, he must. He just couldn't lose. He mustered all of his strength he had in himself and stroke back harshly. But no matter how hard he tried, how many tricks did he put in, the fierce battle soon turned into a desperate chase, which made Dranzer be the prey.

The dark blade, without a hitch, dodged scornfully every feather-arrow that Dranzer shot at it. They were now slaloming around the columns, chasing each other – and at one turn, when the dark blade got dangerously close to Dranzer, malignly grazed her defence ring. Kai barely managed to guide it away in time and avoid smashing it in the nearest column. Even so, he wasn't fast enough and the column cracked, though it didn't fall, only a few broken stones streamed from the ceiling.

'This is not good.' thought Kai tensely. If he wasn't careful another mistake could break the whole ceiling and bring all of them to death.

The caped man was standing with crossed arms and a triumphant smirk plastered his peaky visage. He watched with demonic delight as he was humiliating the last heir of the great Hiwatari's. Oh yes, soon he was going to complete his revenge. His eyes smouldered with hate.

Takao regarded with growing anxiety as Kai's power was gradually lessening while at the same time the dark side was increasing. Outside, Kai may seemed like he still had the control and had something up his sleeve, but Takao could sense – like a real soul mate did – that it wouldn't take long and both Kai and Dranzer gonna break down.

He just couldn't let that happen. He must help Kai.

He searched a safe corner, well as much safe it could be called in such a place, far from the fierce battle as it was possible, and laid the little bundle down. He sent one last look at Gou's sleeping face, a sad smile curving on the corner of his lips. Then he leapt to his feet again and cast back his fury eyes now to the battle field…

"You're going down Hiwatari!" yelled the man with rage.

Tenacious as he was, Kai stood rigid on his place. He was panting harshly, his whole body was screaming with torment, but there was no way he would give up. Never. His anguished expression fixed hard on his blade, putting all his trust in his phoenix as he prepared himself for another hard hit.

However, before the dark blade could have smitten the very last second it was knocked away from Dranzer's near.

"What's this?" the man's eyes widened with indignation.

Kai turned his gaze at his approached partner. His eyes reflected pure surprise but Takao was quick to detect the soft emotions beneath those crimson orbs.

"I told you I wouldn't let you face this alone." Takao said slyly, though his tone held more gentleness than what words could say.

"Takao…"

"Yeah, that's my name." the younger teen gave a playful wink at him. "So what do you say if we finish this together?"

For a rapid minute, Kai lingered his gaze at the person who was the most important in his life, allowing Takao to look deep into his soul and see how he felt for him. Then he gave a brief nod and answered firmly. "Let's do this."

"I'm gonna kill you both for this!" roared the man and swished his arm, giving order to his blade to attack.

Kai and Takao had only a few seconds to harmonize their blades' power before they went into action. Entwining the storm and fire was not so easy, since they had never tried it before, even so, the two amazing blades stroke in perfect synch.

"Dragoon, Phantom Hurrican Attack!"

"Go Dranzer, Blazing Fire now!"

Blinding light flashed and a huge bang echoed in the portico when the three powerful beyblades crashed together. The whole ceiling shook, let more broken stones dropping down, and most of the columns cracked. The explosion was so intensive that it sent both teens fly high backwards. They groaned painfully when they landed hard on their backs. In the battle field Dragoon and Dranzer teetered.

At this moment two pair of mahogany eyes fluttered open. Gou rose himself and looked around with confusion. He gasped when he saw the two young males laying on the ground in pain, desperately trying to get back on their feet, while far off the dark blade was still spinning majestically. The devil man laughed stridently.

'No!' Gou thought frightened. He just couldn't let this happen; not with them. He had to do something. Groping around swiftly in his pyjama pockets he was surprised to see he still had Black Dranzer with him.

'I know what's going on in your little head.' spoke the black phoenix.

"We must help them Blackie." said Gou desperately. He might was scared in his mind, but his heart was throbbing even strongly with courage.

'I see you're ready now. Then let's go!'

Gou nodded and untangled himself from the little nest of the jacket, and stood up…

"This is the end." droned the man satisfied, his smirk wider as ever with smug triumph. "Say goodbye to each other."

Takao clenched his teeth tight. No, this just couldn't happen to them. He tried to stand up but his legs were too weak. Just a brief glance at Kai's sweltering face told that he was just as in bad shape and didn't know what else could they do to make it stop. They had a bad lookout.

Long flash of lightning emitted from the dark blade, covered with that creepy steam, as it started towards the two wobbling blades with full force. The intention was to give them the final stroke of grace and smash them into little pieces in front of their masters' eyes before they would be the next ones to send into death.

In the last split of second a new flash of black-green light shot across and pushed the dark blade right off the way.

"What the… you!" the man seethed.

Gou stood dauntlessly in front of Kai and Takao. His adorable face now mimicked the same spirited glare he inherited from his parents. "I won't let you hurt them!" he chirped angrily.

"Oh, I see… like father like son, isn't it?" the man mocked.

"Gou, no… don't." Takao groaned as he made another attempt to get on his feet to arrest him.

"No worries. I know now how to do it. Trust me." Gou turned back and sent both of them a wink.

Kai and Takao exchanged a flabbergasted look.

"Then I finish you off first!" shouted the man and gave his blade the command.

"It's your turn now Blackie. Let's show him what can we do." Gou looked encouragingly at his blade and the black phoenix did just as she was told.

Now it was all up for them. Two dark powered beyblades span towards each other with unrestrained speed. It was now black against darkness.

Black Dranzer rose from her bit, spread her large wings gloriously, and flew straight to her opponent. The encounter of the two blades was gigantic – the whole ground shook – but this time the dark blade was the one which stumbled backwards.

"NO!" the man howled. "Kill them! Kill them! All of them!"

But Black Dranzer was quicker. She gave no chance to her enemy to fight back and with a devious movement smote the other blade harsh into one of the columns that stood near to the caped man. The column broke in two and this time big shower of stones plummeted down. An incredible shriek left the man's mouth when the stones fell on him and in the end even the column fell over – mashing the pile of stones under itself.

"Hurray, we won!" Gou whooped gleefully.

Takao's smile shone with pride. He didn't notice the impending danger when a long line of crack started from under the pile of stones and rushed straight towards Gou in crisscross. But Kai did. The next moment he leapt to his feet and was by Gou's side with a jump, but he wasn't enough fast to get him out of the way in time. The ground suddenly opened and they fell in the hole.

"Oh God no!" Takao cried up frightened and rushed to the edge of the cleft. Laying down on his stomach his eyes scanned frantically through the darkness to spot something that gave sign of life of them. "Kai! Gou!... Answer me!"

A minute later, which had been the longest, dreadful minute Takao had ever lived, a low voice came somewhere from the depth, and Takao could detect the white scarf mistily.

"We're alright." said Kai, though judging by his strained voice Takao's sixth sense told the dual haired was trying hard to smother his pain.

"You sure? Can you climb up? I come down to you!" suggested Takao worried.

"No, stay there. We're coming up." told him Kai and looked down with a hiss at his right ankle where his hand gripped. He must have sprained it when they fell, if not worse.

"I'm so sorry. It's all my fault." whimpered Gou pityingly, sitting beside him.

Kai looked up and saw a pair of sad eyes in the darkness. "What are you talking about? It was not your fault that we fell."

"But it's my fault that you got hurt. I took away Black Dranzer when Papa and Dad forbid it, and I brought trouble to everyone…" Gou braked off. His lips trembled and his eyes gushed into tears. "You have the right to hate me." he sniffled.

"What?... Gou how can you think I hate you?" Kai was taken aback. "I sure was a little shocked at first but I don't hate you. I never could because… because you're also part of my life, and I care for you… I may don't show it as often, but I do." Kai offered a small, gentle smile.

"Papa." that was all Gou needed and he threw himself into Kai's chest.

Kai was surprised by the sudden display of affection, even a little embarrassed since he still wasn't used to get hugs, but this time he didn't withdraw himself from those emotions. He embraced Gou and rubbed a hand soothingly over his small back. "It'll be alright now." he murmured above Gou's head and he felt the boy tightened his grip on his shirt.

Then Gou pulled away and dried his cheeks with a hand. With a quick glance upwards, Kai cased their situation.

"We must climb up somehow." he declared.

"But it's too sheer. What if we fall again?" Gou resisted unsure.

"For a Hiwatari nothing is impossible." and as he had said that, for the first time, Kai really felt proud of his name because after all, he indeed never gave up. He placed a hand on Gou's head and ruffled slightly the bushy dual haired of his. "You've already proven how brave you are and I know you can do it."

Gou still looked a little unsure so Kai added promptly. "I tell you something. When this is over we will go together to eat a big ice-cream. What do you say?"

"Will Dad come, too?"

"Of course, if you want it."

Gou didn't hesitate more and nodded exhilarated. "Deal."

"Alright then. Come here so I can take you up."

Kai rose Gou as high as he could and waited until he was secure that the boy gripped firmly on the rocks before let him go. Then he followed him straight after, being alert with his injured leg. They climbed slowly while Kai kept constant eye on Gou, in case he slipped and had to hold him upright.

Kai didn't know where did the sudden naughty thought come from but he had this wicked mood to ask it now, while they were téte-á-téte.

"Say Gou. What does your Dad say about me when you're home with him? Is he used to talk about the old times, like… remembering his childhood?"

"Yeah. He tells interesting stories about the time he met you and the other Bladebreakers." said Gou. "The most exciting is when he tells stories about how did he meet you. He said that was the best day of his life."

"Really?" Kai was plainly surprised at that. He remembered that day very well, too, and he always doubted that was the best part of the beginning of their friendship. After all, back then he was very mean and cruel to the bluenette.

"Aha…" Gou nodded. "Dad talks a lot about you, even more than about the others. He said he liked even more when you were still wearing those face-paints, and that long scarf, because that was what caught his attention at first sight… he also told something about that you were hot in them, but I never knew what did he really mean by that. At this part he always become so weird and stuff..." he puckered his eyebrows.

Kai smirked to himself. He understood very well what did Takao mean and he knew now how could he seize privilege for himself to seduce Takao and make him submissive.

Minutes passed by and Takao's worry was growing more and more. Then, finally a tad face of dual haired popped up in sight of him and he blew out a sigh of relief. He quickly grabbed the boy by his armpits and pulled him up.

Just as he was safely brought into Takao's lap, Gou couldn't hold back anymore and snuggled up the bluenette's chest. "Daddy!" he murmured wore out as he covered himself into the warmth that radiated from Takao's body.

Takao's eyes went wide that he was being called that name, even though he wasn't a parent yet, and went a little pink, too. Then the next moment his expression softened and hugged the boy close to himself.

Kai's raspy voice reminded Takao that he forgot something – better yet, someone.

"Takao…"

"Oh – sorry Kai. Come." he leant over and grabbed the dual haired's hand firmly to help him crawl up the rest of the way.

Kai propped himself on his free forearm as he pulled himself out of the hole, and his numb leg gingerly.

"How is your leg?"

"It will be fine." Kai grunted in non-caring tone but Takao wasn't convinced. However, when Kai drew his gaze onto Takao's lap his expression frowned with concern at the sight of passed out Gou. "What wrong with him?"

"Nothing. I guess it was only too much for him and he is fagged out. He's sleeping." assured him Takao as he stroked Gou's locks. "Who would have thought this little kid has so much guts?"

"I guess it runs in the family." said Kai low.

Takao drifted back his eyes at Kai and for a while they stared at each other.

"I'm sorry Kai… that I've been such a jerk to you recently." Takao had no clue why was he saying this all of the sudden but he felt like letting go all that had put pressure on his heart thus far. "I know I can be very annoying sometimes, and stupid, and childish, and I understand if you think I'm a noisy pest on your back…" he lowered his gaze sadly. "But you must know that you're the person who I honour the most in the whole world, and whenever I do silly things is only because that's the only way I can make you show us some emotions… I… I want you to feel happy Kai." he blushed to the roots of his hair when he said that.

A hand drew slowly under Takao's chin and forced him gently to look up into crimson orbs. "I know." Kai said curtly. He didn't make fun of Takao, and he even smiled sincerely. "And I'm thank you for it, Takao."

This made the younger teen smile softly whenever Kai called him by his name, and not his family one.

It still amazed Kai how could someone like Takao look so reverently at him, after the so much trouble, pain, and rejection he'd been putting through the teen without considering his feelings. But thus far, Takao was the only person who could always forgave Kai, no matter how many mistakes he did, and the one who earned Kai's trust. Therefore Kai was very determined to not let this trust slip away ever again. His pale fingers stroked now tenderly the tanned cheekbones and he felt a bubble of contented joy when a faint pink colour crossed over the bluenette's facial features. "There is something I've wanted to do for a very long time now." he said in a whisper.

"What is that?" Takao asked curiously and went even redder when he noticed how husky his tone sounded. He shivered at the unusual display of tenderness he'd craved so long from Kai.

"This."

Slowly, carefully, Kai leant down, inch by inch, eyes closing. He could feel Takao's warm breath on his cheeks, his lips hovering only an inch from the bluenette's. He lingered, hesitated, yet excited about this new experience that was about to happen.

"Kai?"

The dual haired heard his name called sensually and opened his eyes curiously. "Yeah?"

Takao crocked at him a small grin. "If you don't want me to grow old as a virgin then hurry up and kiss me already."

This earned a smirk from Kai. "I can't let that happen, can I?" and for the first time in his life, he was more than willing to do as he was told.

The tiny gap closed between them in a soft meeting of kiss. It was the most tender, heart-thrilling, yet the most powerful emotional-wave Kai had ever felt, and he found himself swept away into the blissful eternity before he could even realize it. Their lips moved slowly, meeting over and over again in a soft chaste. A ragged, faint moan erupted from Takao's throat, his whole body going weak, puddle, and compliant in Kai's arms. And when Kai's hand drove into his long midnight blue hair, caressing and pulling him closer at the same time, the only thing Takao could do was to surrender himself to the deep passion and love Kai engulfed him into.

Being lost in their dream world, none of them noticed when a small eye peeped open and observed them silently in Takao's lap. Gou crossed his little fingers in triumph as he thought. 'Finally!'

~ * ~ Ö ~ * ~

Kai hardly could believe this nightmare was over. The monster was destroyed and his past seemed to be shut down for once and for all. After they had been blissfully rescued, and found by Rei, Max and Kenny eventually, they all went back to the dojo.

The little team spent the rest of the day lazing around and resting after their adventure. Sprawled out comfortably in the living room, all of them were drinking a warm tea, except Kai who got coffee, and a glass of juice for Gou, Takao told every little details for his friends about what happened down in the basement. The three boys listened every word of him with gaping stare while Kai was leant back silently on the couch beside him, his ankle pillowed up with a cold back, while Gou sat between them and drank his juice eagerly. Kai didn't feel like interfering in the conversation, mainly because he more enjoyed if he could simply ogle Takao unawares as he babbled enthusiastically.

However, as much fun they had together, it was about time to send Gou back to his parents. They waited till sunset when the whole park had emptied, then they walked up the place where Takao and Gou met.

"Well, here we are." announced Takao when they reached the hill. He laid a hand on Gou's shoulder. "I think it's about time for us to say goodbye."

"Thank you that you helped me." Gou bowed politely as a real Hiwatari and smiled.

"It was nothing at all." said Kenny.

"You can always count on us." added Max brightly and showed a thumb up.

"Don't forget to visit us in the future." gave him a playful smile Rei and winked.

"I won't, and I'll come often." said Gou promisingly before his gaze turned to the oldest member of the team.

Kai limped to him and crouched down. "You must promise me that you'll take good care of her."

Gou knew what did Kai mean and he took out Black Dranzer from his pocket. "I promise… but then you promise me something, too."

"And what would that be?" Kai looked inquiringly at the boy's artful face.

"That you take care of Takao-chan and the others… oh, and you should smile more often. Daddy says he likes you more when you smile." chirped Gou.

Takao, not wanting to humiliate Kai's pride, only smiled to himself cheekily.

Kai thought for a moment. He felt slightly embarrassed that the others were hearing him but cleared his throat. "I promise I'll try my best." he blurted out wryly.

"Then it's a deal." Gou's face beamed and he gave a quick, brief hug to the older male before he turned to the last person.

At this point his eyes overcame by emotions when he looked up at the sniffling Takao. The bluenette was definitely not good when it came about saying goodbye. The words got lost in both of them, not that they knew what could they say to each other. Feelings spoke better. Gou simply walked up to Takao when that kneeled down and was pulled into a strong embrace.

When Gou pulled back so he could look up at Takao his eyes were shining. "Goodbye, Daddy." he said in a small voice.

This effected Takao more than a winning of a tournament and he goggled teary, cow eyes. "He called me Daddy." he gushed touchingly.

"You're such a sap." grunted Kai disapprovingly but that didn't stop Takao going all mushy.

Gou waved them all a last goodbye and walked to the top of the hill. The others watched him with the secure consciousness that everything was gonna be fine now. Takao was still drying his eyes with his hand when he straightened up. He didn't expect to be consoled for his moment of emotion weakness and that's why it came as a surprise for him when a warm hand laid on his shoulder, calmly. He cast his eyes at the owner of the hand and the soft look in Kai's gaze was enough for him to return a loving smile.

Up, Gou launched out his blade and the black phoenix rose out immediately. She drew slow circles in the air and the dark passageway opened up once again.

'It's time for you to go home now.'

Gou took a slow step towards the gate. He wasn't pleased with the fact that he had to walk through that dark corridor again, but that wasn't the real reason that made him feel uncertain.

"What if they won't be there?" he asked a little scared.

'Don't worry, they're already waiting for you.' the phoenix reassured him.

Gou took a deep breath and stepped inside. In the background the others watched as the gate slowly shrank then vanished completely.

Suddenly a scowl crossed over Kai's expression as he pondered over something deeply. Takao only realized the strangeness of him when the hand suddenly fell away from his shoulder.

"Kinomiya." Kai spoke coldly.

"Yeah?" Takao angled his head at him innocently.

"Before we start anything in this relationship, I have a few terms for you."

"Um… and what would that be?" Takao asked now uneasy because he had a feeling that whatever it was it couldn't be called kind, if it was Kai who said that.

And his anxiety only grew when the dual haired fixed his eyes firmly at him, looking commanding and imperiously. "Your physical skills are still very lame, so you're getting extra hard training under my hands. Second: your school grades are just as poor so I expect from you to start learning hard and industriously."

Takao made a very impressive mimicry of horrid face that was so ridiculous that even a zombie would feel ashamed. He looked as though someone had told him there was no food in the fridge. "W-wha… but why?" he squeaked appalled.

"Because I'm not intending to raise our children in irresponsibility and retard, got it?" Kai brought his nose threateningly close to Takao's as he pinned sharp eyes at him to make his statement clear as the day.

The other three boys sweatdrooped heavily.

Rei slapped a hand to his face with frustration. "Oh no… here they go again." he moaned.

But instead of going stubborn to fight back challengingly, Takao changed tactics. His expression died into dismissive, which was enough for Kai to be suspicious. "Fine then. I guess I can live with those things." droned Takao uncaring and folded his arms behind his head lazily. "After all, I'm still the luckiest guy in this planet."

"How come that?" Kai arched an eyebrow. He knew if Takao acted like this then he should start worrying.

The bluenette chuckled to himself and flashed his famous cheeky grin at Kai, which made the older male wince. 'Shit, that look again.'

"I mean that in the end I've managed to tame the wild Kai Hiwatari, and he is all mine." crooned Takao. He whirled around and skipped off happily.

"Well that's not entirely – hey, Takao! I'm not done with you yet!" Kai hurried after him limping.

"It's such a beautiful sunset, isn't it Kai?"

"Yeah it's fabulous but would you stop –"

"It's so wonderful that everyone is happy and healthy, and things fell out for the best."

"Are you paying attention to me? I'm trying here to say something. Takao!... Hey, Takao!"

When they were out of hearing Rei rubbed his forehead wearily.

"Guys, remind me to buy a house far off in the city when these two move together."

A few days later Takao's grandfather arrived home. He was surprised when he found the whole dojo cleaned up, and even more strangely that Takao's homework was done well. When he asked if something had happened while he was away, the five boys only shook their heads innocently. After all, even Kinomiya Grandpa didn't need to know everything.

~ * ~ Ö ~ * ~

Gou was running fast as he could. When he stepped out from the long passageway shining light greeted him. It was still daylight and the sun rose high in the sky. He recognized instantly the trees and the blooming bushes. Heart skipped, he started running through the big garden of the Hiwatari Land. When he came out of the big labyrinth of flowers he stopped on his tracks. He panted with excitement.

In front of the open door of the house two persons were standing on the terrace, waiting for him.

"Papa! Dad!" Gou cried happily and ran up to his smiling parents. He leapt to the youngest adult's neck, who raised him up in his arms, and clasped his little hands tightly around him. "Dad." he murmured in a watery tone and snuggled deep into the warm comfort he'd missed so much.

"Welcome home son." said quietly Takao and dropped a kiss on his head.

When Gou withdrew his eyes were filled with unshed tears, but not because of sadness, but the wave of relief and happiness to be home again. Now he turned his face to his father who he inherited his special hair colour from. "Papa."

Kai unpainted face reflected softness. His eyes shone with pride and he smiled sincerely at him as he nodded.

Gou now wriggled in Takao's arms, wanting to be transferred to his father. Takao handed him over Kai and when Gou was seated comfortably in his father's arms he clasped his hands around him and said inquiringly.

"Are we going to eat that ice-cream now?"

Kai ruffled his son's bushy hair and chuckled. "I promised you, didn't I?"

Gou beamed and Takao looked lovingly at his mate. The bond in their family was an invisible power that was unbreakable. Together they walked inside the house when Takao spoke cheerfully.

"Kai. I have good news for you…"

~ * The End * ~

Soooo this was the end! I guess it's unnecessary to tell you what was that surprise Takao told Kai, right? *wink*

Please tell me what do you think. About the chapter, the title, the whole story itself – now that you read it complete. I'm curious about your opinions. I know there were probably some grammar mistakes, even if I reread it before posting I still tend to make some, but oh well. How did you like the characters, the OC character (devil man), Gou and the plot itself? I'm interested.

I hope you had a good time reading it, and before you leave please drop me a review, it would be a honor.

See you guys in another story again, someday.

Bye!