Ninjago Nya - Blog Posts

i’ve always loved the idea of nya and lloyd being the younger siblings but being way taller than kai

EXACTLY!!!!!

small but angry/protective characters?? like yes pls

its mainly kai becoming a gold star gymnast to get to the highest cabinet that makes me love the whole 'he's shorter than his younger siblings"

also short people are so UNPREDICTABLE because they can be hell itself or literally become cats and cuddle with you i would know i am short i have experience

+ nya def uses him for workouts.

++ lloyd and nya gang up on him and bully him for it

+++ lloyd and nya beat tf out of anyone else who bullies him for it

yes ❤️❤️

and no I don’t know how many posts/reblogs I will make about kai and nya maybe I’ll stop when ninjago stops gatekeeping them

remember when they had couples suits 🥺

ok so after the part two trailer it’s clear Lloyd isn’t gonna turn mindlessly evil but I still want all of the sibling content mentioned above pls 🥺 also can’t wait for the garmadon and Lloyd content!!

warning spoilers ahead ( kinda)

we love ninjago. and I’m posting bc this needs to be brought to attention: NINJAGO, WE NEED MORE SIBLING CONTENT. romance? it’s good, I SWEAR I don’t have ANYTHING against jaya. but sibling relationships? Kai and nya? we need more.

hear me out: so many people are saying our poor traumatized green ninja that we all know and love is going to turn evil and lose it. valid theory, and quite understandable, and would make the remaining of season 16 quite interesting.I would LOVE another morro- like season, with Kai doing anything and everything he possibly can to bring back his little brother. If that happens, I want a scene. A scene where Kai is upset and nya comforts him, asks him what’s wrong. kai being kai blames himself for Lloyd turning evil, and suffocating himself in self hatred. Telling her it’s happening all over again ( like how he lost nya before, etc) I want kai to get UPSET and tell her he is sick of losing people, not being able to protect them. I want nya to comfort him like he always comforted her.

And if the whole lloyd-turns-evil thing never happens, then I STILL just want an episode ( another time twin-like season would be awesome tbh) just dedicated to them, for Kai to tell her how he felt when losing her to the ocean, how bad of a brother he felt and that he failed to keep his promise of protecting her.I want to see scenes of kai dealing with grief and why he even started teaching martial arts.

I want ninjago to stop just showing nya and jays bond. I want ninjago to show that the importance of kai and nyas bond is just as important, or even more so. I want nya to realize how much kai did and still does for her, and that the only reason kai even joined the ninja was to save HER. ( we really need to talk abt this more ). I want nya to realize what boundaries kai crossed to keep her safe. I want more scenes of their childhood that show Kai’s sacrifices and nyas upbringing. I want nya to realize all of this and thank kai and hug him and tell him she loves him.

I want her to tell him that he is the best older brother anyone could ever ask for. i mean seriously; nya seemed only worried about jay when the ninja were in court. WE DIDNT EVEN GET A SIBLING HUG WHEN NYA CAME BACK. IN CONCLUSION: WE WANT MORE KAI AND NYA.

guys this is it. THIS is IT. we got a second chance I repeat a second chance

nya falls alongside a burning part of the bounty (crystallized trailer two)

how will Kai react what is he gonna do?? this is where the writers CANNOT mess up like they did in seabound (we didn’t get to see the real extent to how Kai grieved and we didn’t get a SIBLING HUG/MOMENTS) this is where we smith sibling gangs will rise up and SHINE i am manifesting our epic sibling hug and epic sibling moments I want to see angst and bonding and finally everything will be perfect this will solve all my problems that have nothing to do with ninjago but can definitely be fixed by ninjago

every birthday until kai was however years old and became a big brother he had the same birthday wish and that was having a sibling and when maya was pregnant with nya I will bet you my soul that kai was the happiest kid you’d ever meet and that’s why he was so excited when nya was born and held her like she was his everything and you can’t change my mind

just watched trailer two of crystallized and don’t get me wrong it seemed AWESOME but we barely saw Kai in it (basically no shots of him at all we got like one GLIMPSE) so who’s gonna read kai centered fics and cry with me

:( praying for some good kai content + nya and kai sibling moments to magically appear because I have been DEPRIVED of BOTH (mainly sibling content bc we all know sibling dynamic is the best period)

Ninjago Headcanon

Each of the ninja experience some sort of telling sign when some natural occurance to their element is taking place in Ninjago. For example when there are upcoming ice/snowstorms Zane tends to have minor malfunctions and or freezes up. For Cole rockslides or earthquakes tend to give him hardcore headaches/make him super unbalanced at times. When there’s a fire related threat or a volcanic eruption Kai tends to feel more warm or hot than usual and it really makes him angry cause heat usually never bothers him. When there’s a lightning storm it’s harder for Jay to contain himself. Depending on the size of the storm and how frequent the lightning is it could really be a huge factor in how hyper he is. Nya’s power relays a lot on emotion. If a rain storm is coming she tends to be very calm and peaceful but if it’s a hurricane or something dangerous she’s very hot headed and irrational at times and it makes it a bit hard on the team during missions. I don’t have anything for Lloyd as of yet though...oh well. (Just random thoughts I had cause it’s a-storming here)

I haven’t finished a drawing I’ve been working on today, so please accept these Nya’s I made in like August of 2018

(Okay, this is technically on the right day! It’s eleven forty-two pm.... *screeches* (god help me...)) This is for day twelve (favorite suit) of ninjinktober! (Pay no mind to my shirt at the bottom. I am to tired to fix it also these are the destiny robes from season six :))

I... may have gone a bit over board... but anyway! This is for day four (design an outfit) of ninjinktober. I’m not entirely sure if this counts because I pretty much just drew normal outfits and new(er) versions of the ninja gi.

Idk this picture isn’t very original but it was the first thing to come to mind when I read nightmare. This is for day two (nightmare) of ninjago angst week. I think it looks okay tho <3

Yall don't understand how dear the hc of Nya being so bad at cooking she burns water somehow is ta me I need her banned from even looking at the kitchen

Jaya?

I'll assume ya mean hcs for this so

● Top Nya all the way

● Jay has ta be gagged during sex he gets loud

● Nya calls him good boy and such a pretty thing while ruining him in bed

● Handcuffs ON when Jay gets needy

● Nya has strap ons she let's Jay pick one out as a treat sometimes

● Nya wears Jay's colors sometimes which is easy cause it's a dark blue

● Jay knits Nya things

● Their love language together is acts of service and gifts

● Jay likes taking Nya on dates ta new places as a surprise

● Jay wears Nya's shirt ta bed while she only wears shorts & a sport's bra

The idea of Kai & Nya being able ta pick up the others makes me laugh like mid fight one of the two just picks up the bad guy and or one of the others and just throws them

Past Lives Chapter 8

"DIE YOU PIECE OF TRASH!" I screeched and yowled as loud as I could while that demon with a lab coat tried to stab me. Nya had dragged me to the vet in a cat carrier to get my set of vaccinations so that way I can be an outside cat. I did want my independents, but I didn't want to be impaled by a syringe for almost as long as I am. There was also another problem. I overheard Jay and Zane talking about having me fixed! Despite my yowling, hissing, and meowing against it, Zane kept insisting it was for the best.

Ideally, a kitten should be neutered around puberty.

In male cats, this is between six to twelve months old. Male cats tend to reach sexual maturity, and therefore begin looking for a mate, between seven and twelve months old. Neutering can be performed from as young as four months old. I know that Zane was the one who argued the most for that damn operation, but I had a strong feeling that this was all Jay's idea. I was so getting the ginger idiot back for this, just like I did when he choose my name.

I knew the chance of them calling me Kai was zero.

But I hoped they would call me a cool cat name like Fire, Tiger, Flames, Thunder Cat, Blaze, Ninja, Dragon, Bite, Claw, or even something strange like Mr. Hiss. Or something ordinary like Henry, Jasper, Jake, Rusty, Red, Pine, Sun, Socks, Bandana, Bandit, or Skipper. I don't actually like those names, but they are way better than the one I got. I knew I shouldn't have gotten my hopes up. Jay decided for pretty much everyone give me the name Meowthra!

THAT ASSHOLE NAMED ME AFTER A FUCKING GIANT MOTH!

I did scratch up a few of his comics and took a small shit on his bed as payback though. Unfortunately, this ended up backfiring badly on me and Zane used that as more reason to have me fixed. Jay didn't even seem that bothered by my act of revenge either. He just cleaned up the mess and smiled as he scratched behind my ears and reassured me that everything was fine. This just pissed me off more, even if the scratching behind my ears felt very nice.

After ten minutes of running around the examination table, that bastard vet managed to get hold of me, and no matter how hard I struggled I couldn't get free.

"NO!" I yowled loudly as that insane vet stabbed that piece of metal into the back of my neck. That traitor Nya just chuckled with the vet at my useless struggles. It seemed that I had to master the sad, cute look, however, because as soon as Nya's eyes locked with mine she stopped laughing and carefully picked me up.

"Oh, you poor baby." She cooed as she started petting me and scratching under my chin, causing me to purr, despite the momentary pain.

"Alright, we'll let the little guy rest for a few weeks before the operation." The vet smiled as he packed the syringe away. "I would keep a close eye on him for the next couple of days and if you see anything abnormal, just give us a call."

"Thanks, doc, we appreciate it."

"NO WE DON'T!" I shouted as she placed me in the cat carrier, but they didn't pay me any attention. As Nya and that madman continued talking, I had to start thinking of a plan of escape, or a way to prevent them from taking the three things I don't think I can live without. The third one is my mojo...

****************

Notes: I am so, so sorry that this took so long and that this chapter is so short! I desperately wanted to get this update out but this was all I could squeeze out of my brain despite all the ADORABLE cat videos I have watched over the last few weeks. Seriously, guys, I tried and tried but no matter what I did, this was all I could come up with and I didn't want to keep you all waiting any longer. Nevertheless, I hope you all like this little update and again, I am so sorry it took so long and it's so short! Now then, you have all sent me many, many different names for Kai and I loved them all. Some of my favorites were Blaze, Dragon, and Lucifer; but my favorite by far was Meowthra, which was suggested to me by my good friend @Lava_Serpant over on Wattpad. If you do like my Ninjago stories, I would strongly suggest that you go and check them out. They also write stories for things like Encanto, Avatar, and I think they have a Marvel and DC crossover story. Thank you for taking the time to read this chapter and note, and I hope some of you will go and check out @Lava_Serpant's profile on Wattpad!

The Flame and the Dragon Chapter 36

Chapter 36: Let Him Go

The next morning, Kai wasn't sure whether to be relieved or disappointed that Cole was still holding him. The chill of his nightmares was still in his system and as long as they were with nothing to confirm or disprove them, any emotion other than worry made Kai sick with guilt. Carefully he unwound himself from Cole's arms and tail and sat with his feet dangling over the side of the bed. The bedsheet wrapped around his shivering frame.

"Are you still thinking about those nightmares?" A voice suddenly asked and Kai jumped and whirled around. Cole hadn't moved from the spot he was lying in but met the teen with an expression that read Kai's thoughts like they were the opened pages of a picture book.

"When did you wake up?"

"The second you started moving," He answered and positioned himself so he was next to his consort. "You're still thinking about those nightmares aren't you?" He asked, but in his mouth, it was a statement not a question and Kai knew it. Kai confirmed his suspicions with a nod.

"I just wish I knew how they were doing; I know they'd both love it here, just like I do." He smiled warmly as he thought about his family living here with him and Cole. Lloyd would be ecstatic to have a whole castle to explore. Kai knew Nya would love the architecture. Kai chuckled at the thought then sighed. "But I have no idea what's happening to them if I could make sure they were alright." He sighed as his voice trailed off. He turned baffled when he felt Cole take his hand.

Cole's eyes suddenly lit up with pride like a child who couldn't wait to share their accomplishment with their parents.

"I know how to do that." He smiled before he hopped off the bed and scooped up a handful of clothes. Harumi must have placed there while they were asleep. "Get dressed." He ordered and Kai obeyed. Once they had donned Griffin's latest creations, which were surprisingly simple compared to the other clothing he had created for them not a few nights ago, Cole took Kai's hand and brought him towards the far side of the room. The magic mirror Cole sometimes used sat peacefully on its pedestal glittering in the morning sun seeping through the cracks in the curtains.

Cole cupped it in his hands, his face beaming, looking like a child with a secret. He then picked up the mirror and placed it in Kai's hands.

"If you ask this mirror anything that you'd like it will show you anything, anything you wish to see; I can't leave this castle so this is my only window out."

"It does that? How?" He asked as his eyes widened.

"I'm not sure how, but my mother always said it was special."

"And how do you know it works?" Kai asked the dragon hybrid, his voice skeptical. A flash of guilt lit across Cole's eyes for a moment. He cleared his throat and muster as much dignity as he could.

"I used it to check up on you during your first month here." He admitted and Kai felt his veins bulge at that information.

"You used it to spy on me?"

"Only temporarily!" Cole protested, defensively and quickly changed the subject to avoid another spat. "Do you want to use it or not?" He asked and Kai stared at the object skeptically. It wasn't like he had anything to lose.

"I'd like to see my siblings, Nya and Lloyd." He told the mirror. He watched as his reflection was swallowed by a sapphire mist that made him feel light and safe. Suddenly the mist in the mirror's glass changed from light blue to dark red. Lights in the red smoke spun in a hazy, milky spiral. Kai's eyes widened as shapes and shadows started to form. He felt Cole at his side, no doubt feeling that Kai would need support after witnessing this. Colors and images began to become clear.

Kai recognized the interior of his home and the figures that began to form until Kai recognized the figure of Nya.

Except it wasn't the Nya he knew. This Nya was wild with distress, her hair and clothing haggard like she hadn't slept. Her once beautiful eyes were filled with anger and fear, red-rimmed from tears, and clouded by heavy black bags of insomnia. The image suddenly changed and he watched as Nya and Lloyd crawled their way out of a small cave. Lloyd was coughing and wheezing and holding his mouth to keep himself silent. Horror and fear froze Kai in place as he watched Nya struggle on weak arms to pull him up, only to stumble, and both roll to the ground.

Sickness running deep into their bodies rendered them unable to properly move.

Lloyd suddenly collapsed to the ground, coughing loudly and rasping. It didn't even sound like coughing. It sounded like Lloyd was choking on air. He squeezed his chest like doing so would loosen the constriction of his throat and help him breathe. Nya try to help, but she was too weak to do anything. Tears of anguish streamed down their faces. Lloyd's eyes were wet with the pain of his illness and the terror of his situation. It took Kai all but a few moments to register what they were doing and why, and he brought his voice horrifyingly back to life with a scream.

Cole remained frozen while Kai screamed.

"This is all my fault!" The brunette shrieked, forcing Cole back to reality.

"What?" He gasped in horror, hearing his consort take the blame for what he knew was the hybrid's mistake.

"You don't understand!" Kai turned to him with a face full of terror and eyes bright and wild from dread, the mirror clutched in his shaking hands. "Lloyd's sick! He can't get sick in the winter! He can't handle it with his chest!" He sobbed as a lone tear fell from each eye and began pooling at his chin. "This is all my fault! I promised when my parents died that I'd take care of them! I'm here living a fairytale while Lloyd's dying and it's all my fault!"

Cole just watched Kai have a fit of his own.

He threw his hands over his head and screamed while he shook it back and forth with such force it was a miracle he didn't break his neck. A new dread froze Cole's being to the core. His eyes fell to the candle at the other side of the room. Its light dimmed as it counted down to the end of the month. The candle was now under ten centimeters in length and the flame was extremely dull. It was unlikely to continue burning in the next few days and once the purple flame went out, his fate would be sealed.

Now, for the first time in his life, Cole had a choice.

He was well aware of his feelings and Kai's. All he needed was time, and he did not doubt between now and then that Kai would eventually say those words that would once again make him human. His staff would be free, and Kai could stay with him, rule by his side, and together they could return his castle to all its magnificent glory. The only price would be the removal of the only two people Kai could love more than him. Or he could set him free, send Kai back to his old life with his family who loved him, safe and free.

Let his siblings be saved and return their lost brother to them, and let them return to their peaceful lives before he meddled in it with his selfish desires and wishes.

He knew the chances of Kai returning before the needed time were slim. The chances of him saying what needed to be said were even slimmer. Both choices brought life and death, brought hope and despair, but only one truly promised Kai's happiness. The choice was clear.

"Then what are you waiting for? Get Flame and go after them." He ordered and Kai's entire world shifted at Cole's words.

"What?" He asked in a whisper and Cole offered a sad smile, his eyes shadowed by rave bangs. "Your brother and sister need you, Kai, you have to be there for them now; I can't leave the castle grounds but you can," he explained and the truth in Cole's words crashed against the realization that he had the option, rendered Kai incapable of speech.

"But what about our deal?" Kai choked, barely whispering that last part. His face fell to the ground unable to meet Cole's face. The Dragon Lord didn't give him the luxury and knelt on one knee so he was looking up at him.

"I told you, you aren't a prisoner anymore, I've never thought of you as one, and if memory serves, I freed you less than a week ago; so you're free to come and go as you like." He chuckled lightly and tears poured from Kai's cheeks. Before Cole could wipe them away, Kai threw himself into his arms and wrapped them tightly around Cole's neck and shoulders, and buried his tearful face into his chest.

"Thank you, Cole." Kai sobbed as he poured all of his happiness, love, and gratitude into those three words. He was thankful to Cole for loving him enough to let him go. Cole returned the gesture, holding Kai tight like the brunette would vanish if he didn't. He barely felt it when Kai pulled away from him and rubbed his eyes with his sleeve.

"I'll come back; once Lloyd and Nya are better, all three of us will come," Kai promised with hopeful eyes, so much so that Cole wisely kept quiet.

"I know you will," He nodded. Kai rushed to leave then stopped when he realized the mirror was still in his hand. Quickly, he turned around, motioning to return it, but Cole only smiled and curled Kai's fingers over the box. "I want you to keep it."

"I can't keep this!" Kai immediately protested.

"I'm giving it to you so that way you'll always have these to remember me by." He smiled as his claw tapped the heart-shaped ruby jewel of the chocker still clasped around Kai's throat. He had forgotten he was wearing it and dared not take it off. Kai nodded graciously. Words could not express his gratitude.

"I will come back," He promised again before he turned and gave Cole one final smile before bursting from the room and down the hallway. Only when he was alone, did Cole finally collapse against the table with such force that the glass screamed its protest against his weight. A clawed hand gripped his dark locks. The silent tears pricking his eyes were all he could do to keep from completely breaking down. Part of him still screamed to run down the hallway take Kai in his arms and beg him not to go.

He steadied himself to do just that.

But his mind burst with the memory of the sick little boy Kai loved so much crying out for him. A lone tear streaked down Cole's scaled cheek. At that moment, Ronin entered the room. He had passed Kai running down the half, but he just assumed that the brunette didn't want to be caught sleeping in the same bed as Cole again. If that did happen, Kai would probably be teased by some of the least mature staff members. Ronin wasn't ashamed to admit that he might be in that group.

When he entered the bedroom, however, he was a little confused to see the sorrowful Cole and to feel the depressing tension in the room.

But the troll decided to shrug it off. He thought they might have just crashed from the excitement from last night.

"Well, well, your highness, I must say everything is going just right! I knew you had it in you!" He cackled loudly, but Cole didn't even glance at him.

"I told him to go home." He said with little to no emotion in his voice. Ronin stopped in mid-sentence as he realized what the dragon hybrid just said.

"You WHAT?! How could you do that?!"

"I had to."

"Yes-yes-yes, but why?!"

"Kai's little brother is ill and he and his sister are lost in the blizzard, and they need his help, so I let him go because I love him." Cole declared and Ronin stared at the calm, expressionless, yet teary-eyed face of the Dragon Lord. He stared for a few moments before he ran off to tell the others that they could kiss any hope of being human goodbye. Almost all the staff were finishing cleaning up and preparing breakfast. The darkening clouds outside alerted the entire staff of the approaching blizzard that was practically at their door.

Jay was peeking through the curtains.

At the table, Tox was quick at work, gathering whatever Shade was cooking onto a tray for Kai and Cole. No one had disturbed the pair because the not so innocent minded members of staff thought it would be best to leave them alone. They couldn't stay in bed forever, though. Echo made to go upstairs, only for the door to slam into his face when someone opened it from the other side. All eyes rose and blinked when they spied Kai standing there panting and flushed like he had been running.

His eyes clouded with panic and rimmed with red like he had been crying for hours.

"What the hell happened to you?" Shade gaped, lowering the flames of the hearth. He hadn't failed to take in Kai's haggard appearance and immediately his thoughts became dark. "Where is Cole?" he demanded darkly. The phrase sent a silent child of dread through the staff, horrified at the thought of their Master being the cause of the boy's distress.

"He's upstairs," Kai spoke quickly. He rushed to sprint to his room before anyone could stop him. Before anyone could say anything, Ronin suddenly ran into the room and gave his friends a devastating look. Regretfully, he told them what Cole had said to Kai and their reactions were what was expected.

"He did what?!" They all screamed in horror and despair. Ronin slumped back while the others crowded around him. Judging from the sorrow in Kai's apologetic eyes and his limbs twitching with hastiness, they knew there was more to it than that, and that nothing was fine. They could already hear the thunder of Kai's steps as he finished gathering his things before running to the stables to get Flame. Harumi couldn't believe that this was happening.

Ultra Violet collapsed in a chair gazing at the ground as if she were a frozen doll.

They didn't want to let Kai leave. He didn't know about the deadline. They wanted to tell him but they knew they couldn't. Pixal reminded them that Kai had to figure it out himself. The banter continued, screaming and curses, ideas and arguments and protests and no one said anything that hadn't already been said. No one noticed the youngest and smallest of their group slip away unknown amongst the chaos.

"I'm afraid it's true." The troll sighed sadly.

"Kai's going away?" Echo whimpered as tears welled up in his eyes.

"But they were so close!" Harumi shrieked and everyone couldn't help but agree. After all this time, Cole had finally learned to love and their curse was so close to being broken. Now all that hope and hard work were down the drain. Jay suddenly gasped when he came up with a last-minute idea.

"That's it, then! That should break the spell!" He grinned like a madman, but no one was convinced.

"But it's not enough, Kai has to love him in return," Zane told his friend.

"But he does! Everyone can see that!" Ultra Violet exclaimed and Zane gave her a cold look.

"Do you though? Has Kai ever actually said that he loves Cole?" He asked them and they all thought about it, but none of them could recall a time Kai ever told Cole that he loved the Dragon Lord. "No, he didn't, and now it's too late," Zane explained and everyone slumped in grief and despair. Back upstairs, Cole watched as Kai left on his horse from above on his bedroom balcony. He roared in sorrow and anger but his anguished roars were lost in the sound of the violent, icy winds...

The Flame and the Dragon Chapter 35

Chapter 35: The Blizzard

Scorched needles, scarps of wood blackened by rage, and bits of ash and charcoal scattered across the burnt snow where the proud pine tree once stood. Specks of blood and splinters dropped from the Sorcerer's scraped and roughened fingertips like someone had scattered rubies. His nails were shredded and his cuticles were split from clawing at the bark in a fit of rage. His fury had reduced the aged pine to a pile of ashes. All while, the raven remained still on its perch in the snow, completely unfazed by his master's wrath.

The Sorcerer's growl was dangerous and low before he suddenly screamed and spun around delivering a powerful blow to the young sapling unfortunate enough to be in the path of his wrath.

It made no effort to protests the Sorcerer's rage. Blinded by his rage, all he could see were the images his spy had shown. Images of that disgustingly repulsive beast, not even a beast but a half-beast, dancing with the Occulti, his Occulti. He clenching his fists causing his fingers to scream in pain but he was numb to all but his rage. He could forgive Kai for that. Surely the Dragon was becoming desperate and would use any kindness to trick the youth into saying the words needed to break his curse and deny him his greatest triumph.

He could forgive the youth for his naivety and his defenselessness.

He was merciful, but not after treachery. His wrath erupted, sending the curling shadows at his feet exploding in all directions. They shattered and pierced whatever they came in contact with until the clearing was a hollow circle of scorched earth.

"He's dirty! That damned whore! Damn him for giving away his purity, and damn me for thinking any one of their kind was redeemable!" He screamed and stomped his foot and tore at his hair and clothes until he panted like a beast after a hunt. But no matter how loud he screamed or how much he destroyed, it could never destroy that last scene from his mind. That beautiful boy, who should have been his consort and ruling at his side, wantonly giving his virginity to that monster and enjoying it.

He wanted to scream again, but someone else beat him to it.

"Lloyd! Where are you?!" A woman cried and the weak call was followed by a loud stumble against the carpet of snow. Bewildered, the Sorcerer quickly shielded himself among the trees careful not to let a spot of his red clothing betray his location. He watched a young woman rise stumbling from the muddy earth, and choke loudly on air. Like a shadow, the Sorcerer swooped closer and gasped. It was easy to miss from a distance but beneath the thick winter clock and the leaves and mud matting the sister of his Occulti.

The girl bulldozed through the woods and threw herself forward through the snow.

The action caused her heavy cloak to fall open revealing a shower of black hair, shiny even in the shadows of the winter forest. The girl immediately stumbled and almost fell over, but she was able to remain standing by leaning against a nearby tree. She was clearly sick as a dog and should be going home, but she had to keep going. She tried to scream, but instead choked on her own words and coughed in a way that made even the Sorcerer's skin crawl.

"I have... to find... Lloyd," She wheezed, shoving herself off the tree with surprising strength and half stumbled in her haste. She didn't get far before exhaustion and the brutal cold forced her to her knees. "I have to find them! I have to find Lloyd then we can save Kai! I have to get them back!" She spoke passionately to no one, but it was laced with the madness of grief. Again she shoved herself forward but instead her hands clenched her head and formed fists against her hair.

"I have to protect them! I promised I would! I promised them! Mom and Dad, I promised, and look what I've done! Lloyd's probably dead and I can't even think of what Kai's going through!" She screamed and tore at her hands and clothes with the rage and madness that only grief could drive a sane man to. She slammed her fists against the ground and punched at anything she could. All of a sudden, she was suddenly filled with new determination and charged into the blizzard, not aware she was being watched.

A triumphant smile split the Sorcerer's face.

Perhaps, there was some hope left after all. He smirked cunningly and called his pet. The bird abandoned its statue state and flew to its master's wrist.

"Tell me, my pet is he the one? The one our little Occulti spoke off?" He asked, but even though the bird said nothing a flash of its eyes and the Sorcerer had his answer. "And this 'Lloyd' she searches for, is he the other?" He questioned and again the bird was like a prop, only its glowing eyes gave an indication that it was alive. The Sorcerer snickered to conceal his glee, not wishing to betray his location to the still wandering mage. He spun in delight, thinking this was fantastic. It seemed that the Fates favored him after all.

"Follow her, when you've reached them both, alert me; now go!" He ordered as a grin curled wickedly on his face. The bird was off without another word, vanishing in the darkness while its Master laughed at his fortune. "Oh don't worry, girl, you shall see your little brother again soon!" He cackled like a flock of crows taking to wing and threw his bloody cloak over his shoulder...

****************

It had been two weeks since he ran away from home to find the castle where his beloved brother was being held prisoner by that beast. Two weeks he had been living in the woods surviving only because of the warming weather of the upcoming spring and because years of living a nomadic life had taught him to pack and prepare for the worst of situations. Two weeks since he had begun his search for Kai and he had found nothing. He thought it would be easy, with Spring fast approaching, that is until a blizzard appeared seemingly out of nowhere.

It had caught Lloyd completely off-guard and forced him to stop his search and find shelter.

Lloyd whimpered as he bunched his knees to his chest, shivering but not from the cold. The multiple fires he had started to keep the cave air warm, and the thick clothing he had packed had taken care of that. He covered his mouth to silence the heavy, haggard coughs fighting to escape. Quickly, he unpacked the bag containing a herbal blend and dumped it into the pot of water that had been boiling over the fire. He inhaled a sharp, large breathe and exhaled contently.

Immediately, he felt his throat soothe and his chest became less constricted.

He hadn't needed to use the herbal vapors so much before, but the cold weather wasn't doing his weak chest any good. He knew he would have been fine if he stayed in that warm house at night like a good boy. But how could he when Kai had been missing for almost five months, and the castle where the dragon kept him prisoner seemed to completely vanish? The thought made Lloyd's eyes prick with tears, but he managed not to cry. His fingers trembled, he clenched his arms and knees tighter in an attempt to feel some form of comfort.

But there was none. Nothing he did could replace the warmth and security he felt when he, Nya, and Kai were all together at home.

He knew he couldn't go home. Nya would never let him leave the house again until he was eighty. Lloyd didn't blame her, he ran away after all, but he couldn't keep waiting. He couldn't keep sitting around and doing nothing while his older sister worked and searched diligently for their missing sibling. He had traveled deeper and deeper into the woods. No matter how many times he found himself back at the path where they got lost in the storm, however, he couldn't find any trace of the huge castle.

Had it been sheer dumb luck that Kai found it the first time?

Or that they found it at all? Lloyd shook his head, forcing himself to dry his sleepy eyes. He then sat up with new determination, mentally forcing the tears and shivering down deep. If Kai could find the castle to save him and Nya then he could do the same thing to save Kai. He removed himself from the warmth of his fires and carefully approached the edge of the cave entrance, where he could hear the blizzard howling and blowing. The cold air bit angrily against his lukewarm skin, as if punishing him for daring to defy it.

Over the woods, he could see the setting sun was nothing more than a yellow sliver above the trees and the night had gone a deep grayish purple of twilight that bled into the dark blue and black of night.

Seeing that there was no point in traveling in the dark, Lloyd slid back into the crevice in the rocks and carefully covered it with a thick net of branches to keep out the cold. He had found this cave by sheer accident when he had slipped and fallen into the entrance. Through that, he discovered a fairly large-sized cave, hollowed out of the dirt and lined with rocks like a fox den. Lloyd had decided it would be the perfect place to camp while he explored the woods by day.

That proved to be true when the underground and rocks blocked out much of the night's cold.

The small opening allowed just enough air so that he wouldn't suffocate from the smoke of the fires. Sometimes, when he felt really weak and his medicine wasn't helping. He would have to spend all day curled up in his makeshift tent under the thick blankets he had brought until his shivering stopped and he could move again. Tonight had been one of his rare nights where he had just enough energy to go exploring again, but he regretted it when he had received an unwanted follower.

Lloyd shivered and blew air into his gloved hands, and rubbed them together before returning to the fire.

Outside a loud crunch of the snow made him scream, the sound echoing off the cave walls forcing Lloyd to cover his ears until it faded out.

"LLOYD!" Nya's voice suddenly screeched, coming closer to the cave. Before he could say anything, she pulled away from the cover and started sobbing tears of joy when she saw her little brother huddled in the dark. Lloyd didn't get a chance to react before she suddenly hugged the air out of his lungs. They stayed like that for a few seconds, before a look of rage fell over her face and she started shaking the little boy. "WHAT THE HELL WERE YOU THINKING LLOYD?! I'VE ALREADY LOST KAI, DO YOU THINK I WANT TO LOSE YOU?! WELL, DO YOU?!" She screamed, still sobbing through clenched teeth.

However, her rage suddenly vanished when Lloyd finally released all the tears he had been holding in and started sobbing loudly.

Nya sighed and hugged her little brother again, letting him sob into her shoulder until he eventually tired himself out and fell asleep. As soon as she was sure he was out cold, Nya packed up his things and lifted him up in her arms. Once he was secure and safe, she left the cave and began to head home. However, it only took a few seconds to discover that she couldn't find the trail leading back to the village in this monstrous blizzard. She tried turning around and heading back to the cave.

But her face paled when she realized that the blizzard had covered her footprints in fresh snow.

She was now stranded in the middle of a blizzard in the forest with one brother sick in her arms and the other being held prisoner by a monster...

****************

Kai screamed for his siblings in his sleep as he thrashed around in the bed, only to find himself restrained. His eyes suddenly flew open and he found himself being held in place by Cole, the man's green eyes fixed on him with a mixture of fear and concern. A cold stab of fear pierced him, completely unaware of where he was. He recognized Cole's room, but the bedsheets were twisted and half flung off. One of Kai's arms raised over his head the other clenched the pillow in a fierce death grip, with Cole holding both his wrists.

Cole's tail was wrapped firmly around Kai's waist to keep from thrashing about.

Slowly, so as not to scare him further, Cole unwound himself and looked him over for any sign of injury.

"Kai? Are you alright?" He asked, carefully and tenderly. The details of his nightmare came back to him like a cold knife twisting into his heart. A sudden stab of guilt and terror knifed through him, making Kai flip over and smother his face in a pillow and burst into tears. "Kai? Talk to me!" Cole pleaded as he kept shaking him, his voice sterner, but not losing an ounce of concern.

"I'm fine," Kai lied wiping his eyes. "I just had a nightmare."

"I can see that, you don't wake up crying and screaming if you've had a good dream," Cole said bluntly, lying down next to him and pulling Kai into his arms. Despite Cole's attempt at light humor, Kai said nothing. He just looked at the pillow beneath his face. A tear he hadn't noticed ran down his face and he found himself shaking again. He tried to speak but the only coherent thoughts in his head were the pleading, effusing eyes of his two brothers.

Determined to relieve his precious flame of his distress, Cole wrapped tentative arms around Kai.

He then pulled the brunette into his lap and brought him down with him against the pillows. Kai resisted the embrace and tried to protest but regretted it when Cole looked him straight in the eye. His face was a mask that betrayed no emotion, but his serious eyes held unspoken trust.

"You saw your siblings, didn't you? You're worried about them." He said and Kai's flinch of shock was the only answer Cole needed. "Don't look so surprised, you screamed both their names; I've had nightmares about my sister and parents for years after they vanished, so you don't have to hide your worry, and I don't want you thinking you can't come to me when you're upset like this." He promised as he tucked one of Kai's loose bangs behind his ear.

"It's not that," Kai admitted, feeling his chest stir at the words. He paused, guilt shaking him to the core. "I don't know if that was a nightmare or another premonition, but... it made me realize just how selfish I've been; here I am, happier than I've ever been in my entire life, surrounded by people who adore me, wearing the most expensive things I've ever owned! I'm practically living a fairy tale and they think I'm starving to death in some cold, dark tower, being tortured."

"Oh," Cole muttered as Kai covered his head with his arms and buried it in Cole's chest.

"They probably think I'm dead, Cole!" Kai cried as tears streamed down his face. He had never stopped thinking of his siblings, not since the day he had arrived at the castle. It seemed wrong to do anything else. Even when he started to like his confinement, and enjoy the company of the Dragon Lord, he still remembered his brother and sister and was comforted in the thought that they were both safe and hopefully happy. He never stopped to consider that his sacrifice might have the opposite effect of what he intended.

Or that his disappearance had destroyed their lives in a way he never considered.

But he had been so happy. The last few days were like a dream come true and he wanted nothing more than to pretend that it could last forever, and he dared, for once, to be selfish and think of nothing but his own happiness. Of course, that decision would come back to haunt him. Guilt pooled in Cole's gut and he cursed his own helplessness as he watched Kai weep. He hated seeing Kai like this. The brunette deserved to be happy and content, not feel like he had the weight of the world on his shoulders, and be consumed by guilt and shame for wanting to forget that and enjoy life for once.

Especially since it was his fault Kai's family was separated from him.

Looking back at the darkest and earliest days of when he and Kai met when he had unleashed his bitterness and rage against Nya and Lloyd. Kai's siblings had every right to be afraid of him. He had only agreed to Kai's proposal because the boy fascinated him and not because he cared at all about their fates, even if Lloyd's health had concerned him. It had filled him with shame and he knew he had to make up for it. None of them deserved to be separated from one another.

Especially not because of him.

They deserved better than that ridiculous town trapped in time, and he knew just how to do it. Cole stroked Kai's back and gently shook him. When Kai raised his head, eyes red-rimmed and cheeks damp with tears, Cole comforted him with caring words pressed with butterfly kisses along his neck and temples.

"If you're that concerned about them, then you can always invite them to stay here." He said with a soft smile and Kai shot up.

"What?" He croaked in a weak voice forced through a constricted throat.

"There's more than enough room here, the staff will adore them; you already said you three planned on leaving your town anyway, and I don't think they'll argue if you ask them, and I can bear the bulk of their hatred for your sake."

"Why would they hate you?" Kai blurted, too stunned to think clearly, and Cole raised an eyebrow of annoyed obviousness.

"Given the fact that I locked them in a tower and technically kidnapped you, I doubt they'd be happy to see me or be comfortable with the fact that you're now my lover, but as I said, I can bear the bulk of their hatred until they see I'm not as cold as I act."

"You'd do that for me?"

"I'd do anything for you," Cole replied, pressing their foreheads together. Overcome by emotion, Kai launched himself into Cole's chest and held him tight with such force he nearly knocked Cole over. Tears rained down his cheeks but this time they were happy tears.

"Thank you, Cole! Thank you so much! I don't deserve you!" Kai cried as he buried himself in Cole's torso grateful for the man's comfort and support and his understanding more than anything else.

"Don't ever say that again, don't even think it." Cole scolded but there was little force behind it. Cole pulled the comforter up to Kai's shoulders as they fell back asleep. "We'll talk more about it in the morning."

"Thank you, Cole, thank you for everything." Kai yawned as he dried his eyes.

"You have nothing to thank me for, it's the least I can do since you saved my soul." Cole smiled as he sensed Kai's lingering uncertainty, he continued to hold his lover close and comfort him until they finally fell back into a peaceful sleep. Cole continued to hold Kai, keeping a careful watch for the rest of the night, treasuring the feeling of holding Kai close. When the nightmares bothered him again, Cole was quick to chase them away and coaxed Kai back to sleep with soothing touches and caring words until Kai quieted...

I guess the other ice spitter is Garmadon, right? But are you going to seriously kill Wu? Well, rather, are you going to make Garmadon kill Wu? I mean, if you didn't watch the show, the good ice-spitter is actually Drago's ice-spit son.

No I didn't know that but it doesn't matter. And I have something else in mind, you'll just have to wait and see. 😉

The Flame and the Dragon Chapter 28

Chapter 28: The Letter

Blood smeared the knuckles when they made contact with the thick wood of the thickest tree trunk. The Sorcerer hissed and hollered as he banged his hands furiously against the tree. His entire body shook with rage at the evidence his newest spy brought him. He waited too long. He pulled himself away from the free and covered his face with his hand. Now it was only a matter of time before Kai gave into Cole's seduction. He banged the tree again, then composed himself and pulled the hood of his cloak over his raven hair.

He watched the cut of his hand swell and bubble until perfectly healed skin was revealed.

He waited too long. The second he suspected the teen had Occulti blood he should have acted! His growl morphed into a roar.

"Damn to the depths of my lust and pride!" He bellowed. He had known he had taken a heavy gamble when he decided to change his strategy, but it was too difficult to resist such a tempting specimen, especially since if his seduction proved a success it would devastate the Dragon Lord more than a thousand of the most vicious monsters. Now, his miscalculation had caused him a major setback. It was worse when it became clear exactly who this mysterious specimen was.

It had been easy to ignore the first instance as merely a single occurrence.

It wasn't uncommon for humans to discover untapped abilities in traumatic or near-death situations. Many people held biological connections to magical ancestors. The religions might have changed, but the blood certainly didn't, he himself was proof of that. Still, many lines had become so thinned by mundane human blood any inherited power could only be tapped through stress or shock and usually only once. But the skills used to defeat his monsters and the premonitions were too much to be a coincidence.

That Occulti whore was dead and she continued to be a thorn in his side.

A wicked smile curled across his lips as he approached the road. The raven sat immobile like a statue on his shoulder awaiting instructions. It didn't matter now. She failed then and she will fail now.

"I'm running out of time, and I'll be damned if I let some Occulti whore destroy over one hundred years of patience and hard work!" He thundered and looked to the crow. It shot up and waited for orders. "Watch them, if they do anything together, inform me immediately; I don't have much time to carry out the next stage of my plan." He commanded. The crow bowed its head and flapped away into the night. The Sorcerer's grin widened as he chuckled then burst out laughing when he came to the main road.

He turned around taking one last look at the castle in the distance.

"Enjoy your concubine while it lasts, prince." He smirked recalling the conversations his spies had recorded. Episodes of the life the boy had forsaken to appease the dragon's wishes. Memories of a high-ranking man who fancied him. Of the childhood instances experienced in Ignacia. Of the siblings he had sacrificed himself for, who were no doubt still terrified for their brother's safety. He may have feelings for the dragon, but Kai was like any other human when it came to sacrificing.

As the Sorcerer walked along the forgotten path, he noticed a cold stream still flowing and an evil idea formed in his mind.

He dunked his hands into the freezing liquid and used his magic to create a small ball of water.

"Enough talking, time for some screaming." He cackled as he blew into the bubble turning it into an ice ball. He then shook the ball violently before throwing it into the air. He smirked as it broke apart and a grey, shimmering mist blew through the wind towards the castle. That should buy him some time...

****************

Nya hollered and roared in rage as she slamming the door to her house shut. It screamed in protest as it suffered the force of his anger. The only thing the village idiots were good for was gossip and apparently, Morro's dismissal of Kai's fate had spread faster than an infectious plague. So much now even other towns were mocking them. No matter where she went to who she begged to help her, she was simply laughed at. One of them even suggested she join her brothers and started to believe in children's stories.

A frustrated hand ripped at Nya's raven bangs.

The only one who seemed remotely worried was the librarian, Dr. Saunders, but he was just one old man. As much as he wanted to, he couldn't go wandering through the dark forest, let alone take on a dragon-hybrid monster. She stormed into the kitchen, her angry steps echoing loudly in the empty room. Nya growled and started grabbing whatever her furious mind thought she would need and stuffed them into a bag she already had set up on the kitchen table.

If no one will help her, she would find that castle and get him back herself.

She stuffed the bag with food, maps, and anything else. She strapped it tight and threw it over her shoulders, donned her thickest coat to keep out the freezing winter air, her cloak, and her heaviest boots. Once she was secure, she turned to the staircase.

"Lloyd, I spoke with Mrs. Grumbmiller, you're gonna stay with her until I get back, is that alright?" She called loudly. Her words echoed through the house, and she braced herself for her younger brother's protests. Instead, she found only silence and she started to panic. She quickly realizing Lloyd hadn't run downstairs when she came inside. He didn't come crying and begging to know if anyone would help them like he had done every time she came home over the last two months.

When their previous attempts had failed.

After two months of trying, Nya and Lloyd returned home only to discover the town was debating what to do with their house and shop now that they were gone. It was only because of Nya's fury that the town would act so irresponsibly. Nya refused to leave their home unattended. Despite Lloyd's protest, Nya left him behind to protect the shop under Mrs. Grumbmiller's care during the lonely nights. Panic started to rush through Nya's entire being.

She bolted from the stairs, checking each room on the ground floor, painstakingly for her younger brother.

When her search failed she thundered up the old steps. Her eyes scanned every room, meticulously for any sign of the young boy. Nya's eyes widened when she entered her own room. Lloyd had been known to sleep there some nights when his worry became too much. Again she found it all empty, even missing a few things. The realization made her sick as she bolted upstairs, heading straight towards Lloyd's bedroom. She panicked and threw the door open but her heart sank into her stomach.

The room was empty, but dressers were left open, empty of clothes.

Her thick winter cloak was missing from the hanger as well as Lloyd's thickest pair of boots. The only evidence that the boy had been there at all was a note left on the bed. She grabbed it with haste and read it as fast as she could. Her eyes bulged with horror and fear as she read over each word, filled with tears.

Nya,

If you're reading this then I'm already gone. I'm sorry I didn't wait until you came back but no one is going to help us, I know that now. I can't leave our big brother to suffer in that horrible place. He's only there to protect me, so I've decided I'm going to go back to that castle, and no matter what I must do I will free our big brother. No matter what. I've already taken more than enough remedy so I won't choke, so don't worry about me.

Please don't come after me, Nya.

I know you and what you're planning. You'll try and switch places with Kai and I can't let that happen. That dumb duke is right about one thing, you two have sacrificed everything for me, now it's my turn to help you.

I love you, Ny-Ny.

Nya screamed and cursed, crushing the little note in her hand, cursing her baby brother's foolishness. Her hands clenched the window as she looked outside. Though Winter was fading quickly, new frost still encased the ground. Winter was still dangerous and it was the most hazardous time of year for someone with Lloyd's condition. She could also swear that those dark clouds rolling in were the signs of an incoming blizzard. A bad one at that.

Snow was already falling and getting heavier with every passing second.

She screeched as she tied on her boots and hopped down the hall, before finally falling over and stormed out the front door. If Lloyd died, she was going to murder him. As soon as she was ready, Nya bolted down the street and towards the woods for any sign of Lloyd as she vanished into the night. She was in such as rush that she didn't notice or hearing the hammer of footsteps approaching the now-empty home. The snow-covered any evidence of her footprints within seconds, masking her trail in the process.

Seconds after Nya left, Morro and Bansha arrived with Noble's collection wagon.

"Nya! Lloyd! Kai!" Morro hollered as he shoved the door to the dark house open, not even bothering with chivalry as Bansha stepped inside behind him. As soon as they entered, they saw that the house was vacant of light and life. The lamps had burnt out, the doors were locked, and no sound echoed through the rooms.

"Where are they? I thought Nya would be back by now!" The duke screeched like an angry owl.

"They're not here, Morro." She quirked, not wishing to be on the wrong side of the Duke's anger.

"This is ridiculous! How long do they plan on being gone? It's been four months!" He bellowed throughout the house. He hissed in a furious rage when no one answered him.

"Morro, you don't think... maybe..." Bansha trailed off nervously. She nervously rubbed her arms and flinched and looked at the floor when Morro's heated glare turned to her.

"If you are going to say what I think you're going to say, I don't want to hear it! There is no such thing as dragons or castles or any of this nonsense! It was a lie! A trick of their little minds!"

"But Morro, think of it!" She protested. "Kai's been gone for almost four months, and ever since his disappearance Nya has been going around town and asking anyone to help her, and Lloyd's been doing the same thing, swearing on their lives that he's been kidnapped and taken hostage by this dragon; they've even gone so far as to seek help from other towns! Why would they keep this story of a 'dragon' kidnapping Kai going if it wasn't true? What if Kai really was kidnapped?"

Morro glared at the girl and opened his mouth to protest but found he could not.

Instead, he stormed back through the door scowling.

"Alright, say this 'dragon' does exist and their story is true? Why would Kai stay with such a monstrosity?" He chuckled darkly.

"Well as you said, Morro, he would do anything to protect his family correct? Maybe, he was forced?" She suggested.

"Excuse me, duke." A smooth voice interrupted Morro as he was about to scream again. The two of them turned around and saw a tall man dressed in vibrant red and purple colors that made him glow in the darkness of the storm approached them. His hood shadowed his face and eyes and only pale streaks of black hair were visible.

"Forgive my forward intrusion, but I'm afraid I couldn't help but overhearing your plight, the plight of your town, and I think I may know what has befallen this unfortunate family." He said with the best fake saddest look he could muster. The pair exchanged equal bewildered glances until Morro's gaze hardened and he returned his glare to the man.

"And who are you?"

"My name of no importance to one of such caliber as yourself, sir." He bowed respectfully. Morro soaked the flattery up like a sponge, but Bansha shivered, catching the sinister smile crossing the man's face.

"Know only that I wish to aid you, I have traveled much in my lifetime, seeking wisdom and the destruction of injustice; if this creature is who I fear we must act quickly or I fear this boy, your fiancé's fate, may already be sealed."

"What are you talking about? What will happen to my Kai?" Morro demanded.

"My entire life, my lady, has been devoted to the destruction of a terrible beast who is responsible for the downfall of my ancestors." The man began. "A hundred years ago they ruled these lands until they were brutally betrayed by this creature, as punishment he was cursed to become a dragon and since then I have hunted him down in hopes of avenging my family's senseless destruction and it seems I have finally found him." He spoke with the passion of a tragic hero but remained focused on their reactions.

He could see they were both skeptical but there was fear evident in their eyes.

Fear that he knew was the perfect fuel for creating an angry mob or a rebellion or an army to obey one's will if it would promise the return of their safety.

"What does your personal crusade have to do with my fiancé?" Morro demanded again as Bansha's hands found his arm and squeezed it tightly, shivering at the frightening presence the man radiated.

"As I said, sir, the dragon is a monster." He spat. "He seeks an end to his curse, and unfortunately, that freedom includes the seduction of a beautiful and talented mortal, and apparently he's settled for this boy you've fallen for, so just you watch; he will descend his destruction on the entire town if given the chance!" The man spoke, emphasizing the destruction of the town and the word seduction.

"No!" Morro screamed and thrashed in fury and rage. "Kill him! Destroy him! Slice off his head!"

"Calm yourself, my lord." The stranger soothed in a sophisticated voice that commanded obedience. "There is still time to save the boy and his family, but I need your help, yours and this town's if you are willing to help me?" He asked as his eyes were soft and his voice pleading. "My only request is that you let me kill the monster, all I ask is to avenge my family, your land shall be yours once more and whatever riches are in the castle, I'm wealthy enough that I do not need such trivial things, all I seek is to avenge my family."

"Of course," Morro announced, throwing his cloak over his shoulder and howling in his delight. "We must get to the town hall immediately! Bansha, go and gather my council, tell them to rally the people, we have to rescue my fiancé!" He ordered, leaving no room for argument. Bansha shivered and nodded mutely, before rushing down the street desperate to get away from the man.

"By the way, who should I say you are when I explain you to the city?" The duke turned to the man as he hauled after his maid. He was shocked, however, to find the man had vanished into thin air. The only difference to before was the thundering of the incoming snowstorm clouds...

Past Lives Chapter 7

It was pretty late when I woke up and for a second, I forgot where I was. That is until a looked up at the now giant bed and saw my little sister snoring quietly in her sleep. I guess she was my big sister now. Oh boy, that's more awkward than it should be. I closed my eyes as I settled down again, only sleep did not come. Ever since I was reborn as a cat, I had developed problems sleeping. Back at the tea shop, I often spent the nights, prowling around the shop trying to keep entertained.

I usually had a few toys to play with, but it seemed no one had left any of my toys in Nya's room.

With a frustrated sigh, I rolled off the comfy cushion I called I bed and padded across the room. I noticed a pair of tiny dishes in the other corner of the room. They were full of cat food and some of that special kitten milk you could buy from the store. The others must have put them there for me for when I woke up. But I wasn't hungry or thirsty or needed to use that damn litter box, not yet anyway. I was saving that for the first bastard to piss me off.

Peeking out the door, I found the hallway black.

Ever since I was reborn, I was able to see well enough in the dark so the lack of lights was not a problem anymore. My hearing had also improved greatly since my rebirth as a little kitten. I could clearly hear the others snoring in their own rooms. I swore I could hear Jay muttering dozens of different cat names such as 'Mittens', 'Whiskers', and 'Cutie-Fluffy-Baby-Pie'. I swear to the First Spinjizu Master that if he DARED started calling me any of those names I'll shred his precious comic book collection with my claws.

If he didn't get the message after that, then I'll find something else more important to shred.

Snooping down the hallway, I quickly found a closed-door with light streaming from under the doorframe. Curiously, I placed an ear up against the door to see if I could hear anything inside. Faintly I could make out the light tapping of a keyboard. I remembered back when I was a human and how one of us would spend almost all night sorting through the mountains of paperwork the city dumped on us. Glad I won't have to deal with that shit anymore.

Knowing Lloyd was inside, a smirk appeared on my furry face.

Wanting to get back for his attitude earlier that night, I raised my claws to the door and began scratching at the thick wood. Deep cuts were made into the door as the shavings started piling up on the floor around me. From the other side of the door, the typing halted and footsteps were heard storming forward. The door flung open and I was met with the angry face of a ticked-off green ninja.

"What the hell are you doing?" Lloyd growled when he saw the tiny fluff ball looking up at him.

"Nothing," I meowed with a look of fake innocence on my cute little face as I flexed my tiny claws.

"Shouldn't you be asleep, cat?"

"Jeez, I was just sharpening my claws, it's something all cats do!" I meowed loudly, but of course, Lloyd couldn't understand me. When he noticed the wood shavings around me his eyes widen as his head spun around to look at the door, seeing the small, yet deep and oblivious scratching in the bottom of the door. Lloyd growled as he turned his eyes back to me and glared. I just started purring in satisfaction as my tail swished back and forth behind me.

Slamming the scratched door shut again, Lloyd retreated back into the office to finish up his work.

Leaving the office, I continued my prowl through the giant monastery. Unfortunately, I couldn't find anything to do in the dark, quiet home so I just wanded back to Nya's room. But my cushion didn't look as warm and comfy as before. I found myself drawn to Nya's bed, but I couldn't climb up, it was too high up. I tried to jump and claw up the bedsheets to reach her, but my little legs wouldn't pull me up. My claws lost their grip on the sheets and I fell to the ground with a light thump.

Even though the sound wasn't loud by any means, Nya awoke with a start.

That scared me for a second, but I quickly remembered that Nya was always a light sleeper. It took her a minute to fully awake, but when she did her sleepy eyes zeroed in on me.

"Nya! Help me! I only have little legs!" I meowed as I started pacing up and down the length of her bed.

"Awe, are you lonely little one?" She cooed softly in between yawns as she bent down and scooped me up in one hand. I started purring as she gently placed me on her pillow and laid her head next to me. I quickly curled up against her neck and she giggled lightly as my fluffy fur tickled her. I started purring lightly as her breathing evened out and she returned to the land of sleep. I soon joined her...

How to Train Your Dragonblood 3: The Dragonblood Alpha Ch2

An indisputable shriek filled the air of the boundless sky over the calm ocean that was empty of boats as a bright red Fire Dragonblood soared across the water, causing waves, and rocketed across the horizon. The image of unbridled freedom. Tucked into his riding position, Jay appeared to be part of Kai. They dipped, rolled, and dived over a sea teeming with whales, dolphins, and a few Water Dragonbloods. They pulled off daring maneuvers with honed refinement, making them seem effortless.

"Yeah!" Jay yelled in adrenaline. They heading skyward, rolled, and tumbled through the ethereal cloud-scapes and joining high-flying Speed Dragonbloods as they soar in a formation. Jay was bound head-to-toe in a snug, dark blue, aerodynamic flight suit. An asymmetrical, functional design of leather and articulated plates. "So what do you think, baby? Wanna give this another shot?" He asked his dragonblood boyfriend.

"You've gotta be kidding!" Kai grumbled in protest.

"Come on Kai! It'll be fine." He reassured and with a click of a lever, he locked the pedals in the flared tailfin position so Kai could fly stably. Jay then unhooked himself from the saddle. "Ready?"

"Fine." Kai snorted unenthusiastically. Suddenly, Jay slid off his back, peeling away from him like a skydiver from a plane, yelling as he plummeted. Kai dove after him. They spiraled through the air, face-to-face. Kai was having fun, despite himself. When he saw the ocean, Jay slipped his forearms through a pair of tucked leather flaps and pulled, unfurling sheets of leather as he extended his arms. They caught the wind, snapping like wings, and sent him gliding.

Kai unfolded his wings, too, catching up with his human boyfriend.

The freedom was palpable. Jay and Kai were, for the moment, the same. Feeling the same rush of adrenaline. Independently together. They plunged past cloud formations, splitting apart then crossing paths again.

"This is amazing!" Jay shouted, overjoyed at these feelings. All of a sudden, a cloud layer washed past, exposing a towering rock formation dead ahead. "No longer amazing! KAI!" He screamed as he tried to steer himself away, to no avail. Kai poured on the speed, trying to catch Jay as he hurtled toward the collision. His locked tail made maneuvering difficult. He was unable to pull up at a steep enough angle. At the last second, Kai blasted the jagged rocks just ahead of them, then wrapped Jay in his wings as they flew through it.

The obliterated peak rained down around them.

Kai emerged through the cloud of debris and hurtled into the trees of a neighboring peak. They tumbled down the uneven terrain, coming to rest on a small plateau. Jay emerged from the cocoon of Kai's wings. He switched his prosthetic riding foot to his walking foot and stowed his leather wings. As Kai transformed into his human form, the sea stack cracked and fell.

"That really came out of nowhere." The brunette grumbled as he rubbed his sore muscles.

"We gotta work on your solo flying there, baby; that locked-up tail makes for some pretty sloppy rescue maneuvers, eh?" Jay chuckled as removed his helmet. He walked to the edge of the cliff, taking in the new land. "Looks like we found another one." He beamed and an annoyed Kai threw a small pebble at Jay's head. Jay looked at him, but Kai frowned and avoided his gaze.

"Oh, what? Do you want an apology? Is that why you're pouting, big baby boo? Well, try this on!" He teased as he hugged him and tried to wrestle with him. Kai's frowns melted to a smile at his boyfriend's attempt to overpower him. Despite growing in muscles and confidence to the last five years, they both knew Jay could never face Kai in hand-to-hand combat, with or without fire powers. All of a sudden, the brunette grabbed Jay's wrists, pinned him to the floor, and started kissing his face and neck.

"What's that you were saying?" Kai smirked.

"You're right! You're right! You win! You win!" Jay shrieked in roars of laughter. Satisfied, Kai got off him and let him get up. After catching his breath and with a big smile on his face, Jay got to his feet and looked around at the new island, and pulled out his map. "Whaddya reckon, baby? Think we might find a few Gravity Dragonbloods in those woods? The odd Light Dragonblood or two in the rocks? Who knows... maybe we'll finally track down another Fire Dragonblood; wouldn't that be something?" He sighed sadly as he stopped drawing on the map and looked out at the new horizon. "So, whaddya say baby? Should we just keep going?"

"When did you get so soppy?" Kai teased at his boyfriend's serious face. Jay rolled his eyes and lightly elbowed the dragonblood.

"Gotta make up for what you lack." He smirked back.

"Hey, I don't lack in anything! Especially where it counts, as you know." He purred seductively as he wrapped his arms around the ginger-haired man's neck before he burst out laughing at Jay's scarlet face. A dragonblood screech caught their attention. They turned just as they saw Cole and Rocky landed on the island. Kai gave Jay a quick kiss on the cheek he ran over excitedly to greet Rocky as Cole went to talk to the other rider.

"'Sup Rock?" The brunette smirked as the Earth Dragonblood sneaked him a cigarette while pulling out his own and he used his fire powers to light them. He had promised Jay he would cut down on his smoking, but it was hard to kick a habit like this.

"Not much, Grant almost set the town on fire with a lava ball... again, and Tes and Bolt are trying to tear each other to shreds." He sighed. He loved Adam and the triplets, but sometimes the kids, who were five now, drove them both mad.

"The offsprings of a Lightning and Earth Dragonblood couple are bound to cause chaos." Kai shrugged with a smirk.

"True, but I better the kids of a human and a Fire Dragonblood would be worse." He counted and Kai almost choked on his cigarette.

"What the fuck dude!"

"Oh come on hothead! Everyone's wondering when you two are gonna tie the knot and then have a little junior running around town." Rocky grinned at the bright crimson blush on Kai's tanned cheeks. Kai felt his temper flare up at this statement. They had talked about having children a few weeks ago, but both decided that they weren't ready for that yet, despite dating for five years now. Sadly, this hadn't sat well with Cliff. As soon as he caught wind of his son and Kai talking about having their own children, he began dropping hints about grandchildren or children, in general, every chance he got.

It didn't matter where or when.

Every morning, noon and night, no matter what activities Cliff caught them doing, like fishing or cooking, he would say how he used to do that with Jay, how he did it with his dad, and how great it would be for Jay to do it with his own child. Eventually, the couple had to sit Cliff down and explain to him that they weren't having children anytime soon. They thought that was the end of it. That is until Cliff decided to drop a bombshell on them this morning.

Without warning, Kai suddenly tackled Rocky to the ground and the dragonbloods started wrestling and chasing each other through the trees.

Their human riders glanced at the two dragonbloods, but shrugged it off and returned to their own conversation.

"Hey Cole, where have you been?" Jay asked as he returned to his map.

"Well, winning races, but what else?" He shrugged. "The real question is where have YOU been?"

"Avoiding my dad."

"Oh, no, what happened now?" He smirked.

"Oh, you're gonna love this." He groaned as he handed the pen to Cole. "I wake up, the sun's shining, crows are singing on the rooftop, I saunter down to breakfast with Kai, thinking all is right with the world and I get: Son, we need to talk." He said, imitating Cliff.

"Not now, Dad, Kai, and I have a whole day of goofing off to get started," Cole replied, imitating Jay, which the ginger didn't look impressed with.

"Okay, first of all, I don't sound like that! What is this character?!" He cried, but the light giggles showed Cole that he wasn't actually offended.

"A truly flattering impersonation." He said as he rolled his eyes. "Anyway he goes: you're the pride of Ninjago, and I couldn't be more proud of you; you're all grown up, and since no chief could ask for a better successor, I've decided-"

"To make you chief! Oh, my Gods!" Cole suddenly gasped as he stood up, doing a complete turnaround in the mood. It was clear, however, that Jay didn't share his eagerness though. "Jay, that's amazing!" He exclaimed and to settle his joy he punched him in the stomach. Jay cried out in surprise and stepped back, holding the injured side as the dorsal fin sprung up.

"You-You're gonna wear out the spring coil, the calibration is very sensitive." He scolded and Cole chuckled as he adjusted his armor. Suddenly they both are thrown down by the still fighting dragonbloods when they pass by them. Cole stood up with a huff from where he landed, kneeling over Jay.

"Yeah... so..." Jay sighed as he accepted the offered hand and pulled himself up as well. "This is what I'm dealing with."

"What did you tell him?"

"I- I didn't, by the time he turned around we were gone." He replied as Cole bent down to pick up the map.

"Well, that's a lot of responsibility, for sure; the map will have to wait for sure and I'll need to fly Kai since you'll be too busy, but I'm sure he understands." The noirette hummed as he walked away, pressing the map in Jay's chest. When he turned around, Jay looked at him so miserably.

"It's not me, Cole." He admitted. "All those speeches and planning and running the village, that's his thing."

"I think you're missing the point." He replied. "I mean... Chief! What an honor, I'd be pretty excited!"

"I... I'm not like you; you know exactly who you are, you've always had, but... I'm still looking." He sighed sadly as he stepped away from the noirette and towards the edge dejected while further behind Rocky and Kai started fighting over a fallen tree trunk. "I know that I'm not my father, and I've never met my mother so… what does that make me?"

"I get where you're coming from," Cole replied. "I might not have been as young as you when I lost my Mom, but when she died Dad and I kinda drifted apart, and as I grew older I felt like I didn't know who I was; my Dad barely talked to me and I felt like my Mom was a stranger to me because we never talked about her." He explained. "But after you and Kai changed everything, Rocky helped me reconnect with Dad and I finally realized who I was.

"It's not the same Cole." He muttered as he flopped down on the ground. Cole came from behind and sat next to him.

"What I'm saying is that what you're searching for isn't out there, Jay." He smiled as he placed his hand on Jay's chest. "It's in here, and maybe you just don't see it yet." He added but Jay ignored him and focused on the sky.

"Maybe... But you know... there is something out there." He muttered as he got up on his knees and watched attentively something off-screen.

"Ugh! Jay..." He groaned as he shook his head. Jay reached blindly with his hand and grasped his chin, turning his face to what he saw and Cole gasped. In the distance, over the cliffs, there was a trail of smoke climbing up into the morning sky...

How to Train Your Dragonblood 3: The Dragonblood Alpha Ch1

The bright, yellow, morning sun shined and shimmered over the stunning blue sea surrounding the northern islands. Suddenly something fast moved across the surface causing the water to part and spray sideways. A colorful, bustling town sat atop one of these many northern islands. A few sea birds were heard in the background along with the shifting waves as they hit the base of the island. This was the island of Ninjago. The only island that housed both dragonbloods and humans as one community.

It was the best-kept secret this side of anywhere.

Much had changed on the island of Ninjago in the five years since Jay Walker and the Fire Dragonblood Kai had first bonded together and became a couple and showed humans and dragonbloods alike that coexistence between their two species was not just a possibility. It was the way of the future. The catapults and trebuchets that once dominated Ninjago's towers during wartime have now given way to aqueducts, wing-inspired windmills, and Dragonblood Racing bleachers.

Similar changes also occurred beneath Ninjago's surface.

There was a reinforced hangar, complete stables, feeding troughs, and a dragonblood wash for when they were in dragon form. Granted, it may not look like much, but this wet heap of rocks packed more than a few surprises. Life here was amazing. Just not for the faint of heart. The streets were seemingly empty, aside from the shadowy blurs zipping over the many roofs of the town. In-between two houses, a group of scared sheep watched the sky as they trembled in terror.

The bunch of sheep started crossing the plaza back to back as their eyes darted around in fear.

On their sides, they had different colorful targets painted into their white wool. They quickly scurried into a space between two buildings, only it was too small. One of the marked sheep was pushed away and into the open. It looked up alarmed just before being snatched by a sudden, flying blur. Fast shapes moved across a totem and buildings. While most folks enjoyed hobbies like whittling or needlepoint, the people of Ninjago preferred a little something they liked to call Dragonblood Racing.

Dragonbloods barreled past at a dizzying speed.

Their riders swiped, kicked, and rolled into one another while they weave between the houses, docks, and revamped structures of Ninjago. Dareth, who is now twenty, rode Tox, his Poison Dragonblood, who carried the sheep in her claws, until Plundar, also twenty, but every bit as a juvenile, and Adam, his Lightning Dragonblood, side-checked them and stole their sheep.

"Sorry, Dareth! Did you want that?" Plundar laughed as Dareth glared at him and Adam. Adam fell back toward Zane and Harumi, who lag on their Ice and Wind Dragonbloods, Pixel and Morro. "Here ya go, babe!" Plundar called out and, with a chivalrous grin, he tossed the sheep to Harumi. She snatched it with a sneer and a grumble. "Did I tell you that you look amazing today because you do?" He smirked, but she wasn't impressed.

"Ugh, come on, Morro, it's starting to stink around here." She huffed in disgust Morro started to peel off, spewing a gust of wind as he did so.

"You must see that she still hates you." Zane sighed at his friends' antics before he and Pixel also flew ahead. As they flew, Pixel released a wave of frost that blew into Morro's previous gust and left Plundar and Adam shivering. As they rush past the main bleachers, Harumi dropped her sheep into one of seven baskets suspended over a chasm at the lap crossing. Each backboard bore an image of its corresponding dragonblood. Morro and Harumi's basket was filled to the brim with sheep.

Presiding over the game, Cliff turned to the frenzied crowd.

"That's nine for Harumi and Morro, Cole and Rocky lags with three, and Plundar and Adam, Zane and Pixel, Ronin and Shade, and Dareth and Tox trail with NONE!" He roared over the crowd as his eyes fell on an empty basket at the far end, its backboard painted with an image of fire. "And Jay and Kai are... nowhere to be found." He sighed as he slumped back into his large chair.

"Scared your boy off with the big talk, didn't ya, Cliff?" Ed chuckled lightly. Plundar, still defrosting from the blast, suddenly got a punch from behind. Cole rolled in, astride Rocky, spirited and competitive as ever.

"What are you doing, Plundar?! They're going to win now!" He growled.

"She's my princess! Whatever she wants, she gets!"

"Harumi?! Didn't she try to bury you alive?!"

"Only for a few hours!" He argued. Cole rolled his eyes in frustration and Rocky flew as far away from the love-struck Plundar as he could get. He loved Adam with every fiber of his being, but his human rider could be very annoying. The racers chased each other through a sprawling hangar and into a vast cave, teeming with colorfully painted dragon stables. They exited through the far side and circled back through the village, blasting past many of its dragon-friendly additions.

In the village, one of Rocky and Adam's children suddenly sneezed, releasing a little molten rock and accidentally setting one of the houses aflame.

Cole saw this and Rocky peeled away from the other racers, and yanked open a spout on the overhead network of aqueducts, dousing the flames with a surge of water. Back to Cliff, amused as he watched the racers around the island, searching for sheep. He turned to Ed and nodded.

"It's time, Ed."

"Righty-ho! Last lap!" He shouted to the crowd. A horn sounded and the racers all turn to each other, excited. It was time to release the Black Sheep.

"Come on, Rocky! We can still win this thing!" Cole grinned and the Earth Dragonblood kicked it into high gear.

"Come on, Shade!" Ronin shouted.

"Let's go!" Dareth cried to Tox.

"Go, Adam!" Plundar yelled as Ed loaded the Black Sheep onto a catapult. He pulled the trigger, launching the Black Sheep into the air. Cole spotted it first and steered Rocky into a steep climb toward it. In a flash, however, Dareth and Tox flew in and nab the sheep.

"NO!" Cole shouted and Rocky roared in frustration.

"Good job, Tox!" Dareth praised as he patted the green dragonblood's neck and tossed his captured prize to Harumi. "Here you go, darling! Mine's worth ten!" He called to her when she caught it. She cheered and steered Morro towards the baskets

"You guys are fighting over Harumi?!" Ronin scowled at his brother in disappointment while Shade let out a laughing sound, but Dareth just ignored them and Tox flew to catch up with Harumi and Morro. When they saw him, Morro rammed into Tox, sending her and Dareth into an uncontrolled spin. They slammed into Plundar and Adam, sending them all tumbling head over tail. The crowd went wild. Harumi thought they were in the clear until Zane and Pixel came up beside them.

He grabbed at the sheep, but Harumi fought back, inciting a tug-of-war.

Neither of them noticed Cole and Rocky flying toward them. As they got closer, Cole stood on Rock's back, keeping his balance.

"Get 'em, Cole!" Cliff shouted out in excitement at what was to come. Cole leaped off of Rocky, ran up Pixel's back, and plucked the Black Sheep from Zane and Harumi's hands. He laughed in victory as he tumbled through the air onto Rocky, sticking a perfect landing, the Black Sheep in hand. Zane smiled at Cole's strategy while Harumi and Morro growled in annoyance at losing the Black Sheep. As they flew, Cole eyed the fast-approaching finish line, unaware as Dareth suddenly rammed Tox into Rocky, sending them off-course.

He recovered and saw Ronin flying headlong toward them, war hammer cocked, aiming at his head.

He cried as Ronin hurled his hammer. Rocky suddenly ducked and rolled Cole out of the way. The hammer caught Dareth in the face with a clang and the crowd collectively winced. Cole and Rocky recovered from their roll, looped over the water, and blasted past the finish line, dunking the Black Sheep into their basket.

"That's thirteen! Cole and Rocky take the game!" Cliff shouted and the crowd came unhinged. The winners flew over the crowd, basking in their victory while the loses flew away to lick their wounds. Ninjago was pretty much perfect. All of Jay's hard work had paid off, and it was a good thing too because, with humans on the backs of dragonbloods, the world just got a whole lot bigger...

Past Lives Chapter 6

I was so excited as Master Wu carried my cat carrier up the many steps towards the monastery. After packing up all the cat stuff Mystake bought and the tea he had ordered, Wu covered the carrier with a blanket, but there was a small tear in the front, allowing me to see a little bit of the outside world as we walked. I couldn't wait to get back to the rebuilt monastery and see the others again. I've missed them all so much over these last few weeks, especially Nya.

Master Wu didn't say anything as the large gates opened.

As we entered the property, the gates swung close again trapping us inside whether I liked it or not. As Wu stepped into the monastery, I was starting to panic a little inside at the thought of seeing them again. How were they all doing after my death? Were they ever still a team anymore? Would they even want to take care of a kitten? Was Nya alright?! All of a sudden I heard many voices, the voices of my family, all around me as I felt Master Wu gently place the carrier on a table.

I think we're in either the dining room or the kitchen or maybe the living room.

Probably the kitchen because I could smell the sweet scent of Zane's cooking. Oh shit, will I still be able to eat human food?!

"Good evening, Sensei." I heard Zane say as the others gave their own greetings and for a second, I forgot how to breathe. So, they were all still here together. That's something I'm so grateful for.

"Good evening everyone, how are you all doing today?"

"Fine." I heard Lloyd mutter in an almost emotionless voice. Did his voice sound lower? Sounds like our little green ninja's growing up!

"What's under the blanket?" Cole asked and, even though I can't see them, I shrank a little as I felt their eyes all turned to the covered carrier I was in.

"As you all know, I traveled into Ninjago City to collect my order of black tea from Mystake earlier, and she offered us a gift to help us deal with... certain recent events." Master Wu explained and the air was suddenly filled a thick tension. I could almost feel the glare harden on Lloyd's face.

"What is it?" He demanded to know. Knowing it was best not to keep them waiting, Wu quickly pulled off the blanket, opened the carrier, and lifted me out for all the team to see me, but it also let me see them for the first time in over two months. They all looked so different from the last time I'd seen them. Cole's black hair was longer and shaggier, his eyebrows weren't as bushy he had a more relaxed look to his eyes. Jay's hair was more curly and he had light freckles now.

Zane's titanium form now had silver hair in a tall flat-top, crew cut hairstyle with no sideburns.

He had glowing blue eyes, reflective of his robotic nature. Instead of a bob cut, Nya had long black hair kept in a ponytail. She was wearing pale pink lipstick and had small dimples on her cheeks. She also had a beauty mark on her right cheek. Lloyd looked more mature and his blond hair was a little bit longer and his eyes were greener than I remember. But that wasn't what shocked me the most. It was the heavy bags under his eyes like he hadn't slept in weeks.

He and I made eye contact, but it didn't last long.

"Why do you bring that in here?" He spat and I flinched at his tone. What's he got against cats? When I was a little kid he used to bring all kinds of animals back to the Bounty, begging us to let him keep it as a pet. Hell, he's even brought home a spider once! Jay was quick to shut that shit down!

"Mystake has been kind enough to purchase this feline for us in hopes it will help us come to terms with Kai's passing and provide a way to ease our pain." Master Wu explained and everyone slumped slightly in sadness and it pained me to see. I wish I could tell them I was their lost brother Kai.

"I've always wanted a cat!" Jay suddenly squealed loudly before anybody could say anything else. I scowled at the comment and flattered my ears while Nya quietly chuckled next to him. Lloyd growled lowly before storming off. No one made a move to stop him. All of a sudden, Zane took me from Master Wu and I almost flinched when I felt the cold metal of his hands. I am so grateful for having a thick fur coat. Zane's eyes started to glow over me and I realized he was scanning me!

"Hey! What happened to ask permission?!" I hissed, but this only caused Cole to chuckle.

"I don't think he likes that." The noirette smiled as Zane put me on the table.

"He is a nine weeks old Maine Coon kitten, no records of vaccinations or neutering." The nindroid said once he finished scanning me. Again, very rude!

"A main cone?" Jay frowned in confusion.

"The Maine Coon is a large domesticated cat breed; it has a distinctive physical appearance and valuable hunting skills," Zane explained as he pulled up a holography image of an adult Maine Coon cat.

"Awe, you've got a lot of growing to do, don't you?" Jay cooed in an exaggerated baby voice as he picked me up and held me to eye level.

"If you keep that voice, I will scratch you," I growled, but Jay didn't seem to notice.

"He's really ours? Can he stay in my room? Wait, what's his name?!" He screeched, almost horrified that he didn't know my name.

"Please call me Kai! PLEASE!" I begged, but all they heard was a series of meows.

"Noisy little furball, isn't he?" Nya smiled as she started scratching me behind the ear. It was really nice and I started purring, causing everyone to awe and coo at me even more.

"There will be plenty of time to discuss names, for now though, I suggest we find a place for this sleepy kitten to sleep and where to place his items." Master Wu said, holding up the bag full of my kitten stuff Mystake had bought. That was all Jay needed to hear because he was suddenly carrying me out of the dining room and gave me a grand tour of the new monastery. I kept an eye out for Lloyd, but I didn't see or hear him. Jay continued to quickly carry me throughout the entire monastery, showing me all the many rooms and electronic gizmos they had added to the new building.

Twenty minutes later, I had seen the entire mansion but still had no clue where anything was as the place was so big and the tour was so quick.

We returned to the living room, where Master Wu, Nya, and Zane were waiting. I wanted to spend more time with my family, but for some reason, I was struggling to keep my eyes open. I suddenly let out a loud yawn, showing off my little, sharp teeth.

"Where is the kitten to sleep, Sensei?" Zane asked, noticing how tired I looked.

"Mystake provided a cat cushion for him and a litter box." He replied and I flinched when he mentioned that goddamn litter box. Using it was so humiliating! I wish I could use the toilet, but even if I could climb up, I was so small that there was a good chance of falling into the toilet bowl. Using a litter box might be embarrassing, but death by drowning in a toilet was even worse! After a short debate, it was decided that I'd be sleeping in Nya's room, which I was grateful for.

I wouldn't be able to sleep with Jay staring at me all night.

We went into Nya's room and my cushion was placed at the foot of her bed and my litter box was tucked into the far corner for me to use in the night. Jay reluctantly placed me on the cushion after Nya ordered him to let me sleep. As soon as I made contact with it, I curled up into a little ball and snuggled deep into my little cloud of heaven. I could hear the others talking, but I didn't pay attention as I drifted off into a peaceful sleep. I was finally home...

****************

AN: Right people, start sending me names for a male, moody, dark brown, Maine Coon kitten! The one I like the most will be the one I use!

The Flame and the Dragon Ch19

Chapter 19: The Gift

The cold wind bit mercilessly at Kai's exposed neck and cheeks. It had been snowing heavily for almost a week and snow blanketed the landscape once the blizzard ceased. Thick icicles hung from the balconies and roofs of the castle, and snow caked the roofs and towers. But the frosted surface, open fields of white hills, and frosted trees created the perfect environment for the playful staff. White, fluffy snow crunched loudly beneath his fur-lined paddock boots.

Harumi gave Kai a new pair of thick leather riding breeches and a long-sleeved, form-fitting, dark crimson turtleneck.

Over the outfit, he wore a long, red fur coat that covered most of his skinny frame. Soft fur tickled his skin and snuggly hugged the warmth to his body while the leather exterior managed to block any wind that dared try and penetrate it. Kai spun around a couple of times admiring the new coat from all angles and wondering what Cole would think if he saw him in it. Flame trotted beside him, overjoyed to see his master again. Nelson was running around the castle grounds with them, excited to see and touch a real-life horse for the first time in over a century.

The stallion was happy to let the boy pet him and ride on his back.

He always loved attention, just like his owner. The horse suddenly snorted into Kai's spikey hair and rubbed against his arms. He sniffed Kai's jacket and started digging through it Kai laughed at the treatment and pulled a juicy red apple from his pocket. He grinned as Flame's dark eyes lit up and he carefully snatched the apple from his master's hand and devoured the tasty treat. When he was finished he licked Kai's cheek, making the teen laugh loudly.

None of them noticed Cole admiring them from the balcony, watching the stallion triumphantly gallop across the snow-covered plains.

A small smile was on Cole's face when he watched Flame play with Kai and Nelson. His main focus was on his captive, though once in his thoughts the word no longer seemed appropriate. He felt a small jump in his chest when Kai smiled and laugh when Nelson tried racing Flame. Cole realized that was the first time he'd ever truly seen Kai smile or laugh. The teenager smiled brilliantly and laughed alongside Nelson as he had never before experienced something so enjoyable in his life.

It was a stark contrast to the feisty character he'd become accustomed to.

Just the sight of Kai's warm smile he'd kept hidden from him melted Cole's frozen heart. His breath hitched being suddenly exposed to the most innocent and blissful side of the otherwise resolute and world-hardened young man. For a brief moment, Cole would've given anything to have Kai smile at him like that. Subconsciously, his hand touched his bandaged torso beneath his opened coat. He hadn't bothered wearing a shirt under it, in case Kai insisted he changes the bandages again.

The wound had fully healed by now.

It had taken much longer than he thought it would have, and had no doubt it could've been a lot worse, had it not been for the teen's persistence. Cole had never felt this way before. His claws subconsciously moved to his chest as if feeling his heartbeat for the first time as it thundered in his chest. He sighed in frustration and started back towards his room, and down the stairs. Cole collapsed into his favorite chair at the head of the dining room table and sank to the seat.

His hands started massaging his temples in a desperate act to help him think but it did little to help.

His attention turned to the wide window, the curtains were drawn open. He could only faintly see the dots of his captive and his servants, but that perfect smile Kai had worn so effortlessly burned vividly in his mind. He sighed and collapsed his upper body against the table. A small stab of pain filled his chest at the realization that he was probably the only one who hadn't had the honor of seeing Kai smile like that. Or maybe he had and didn't realize it.

He had felt this foreign emotion for reasons he assumed was simply because he hadn't had time to focus on them.

When he saw Kai today, playing in the snow with Nelson he'd normally just think it was childish or idiotic when the only thing they'll do is get cold and wet, but he'd never felt this way before. Like he'd do anything to him smile like that all the time. With that thought, Cole rose to his feet, eyes bright with determination. He wanted to do something for him and not as a thank you or a repayment, just for the hell of it. He'd heard through the grapevine that Kai loved books, though the statement didn't surprise him.

It seemed natural that Kai would possess an artistic soul.

An idea formed in Cole's mind, forming a grin. With that, he turned around and burst from the room, radiating an aura that could rival the people playing outside in the snow...

****************

After putting Flame back in the stables and Nelson had said goodbye because he had some chores to do, Kai had intended to go and find someplace to get warmed up again and rid the cold from his bones. That is until Cole suddenly pulled him aside and said that he had something to show the teen. Kai was confused by that, but his curiosity won and he followed close behind the Dragon Lord as they walked to his surprise. Neither of them said anything.

It was like when Kai first arrived at the castle, but there was now hardly any tension between them.

Kai recognized the way to the ballroom, only instead of entering, Cole continued walking, so Kai followed him. The brunette looked around at the area of the castle he had yet to explore. Large curtains pooled like waterfalls of gold and silver around the enormous windows. The pale moonlight poured through them illuminating the different posed dragon statues standing in between each window. The hallway ended in front of two curved-shaped ivory doors outlined in gold, beneath a glittering emerald tapestry embroidered with a huge silver tree.

Cole suddenly came to a stop and Kai barely managed to stop walking straight into the hybrid's back.

He opened his mouth to speak, but again was cut off, this time by a sudden blackness wrapping around his eyes.

"Cole, what are you doing?" He asked as his hands instinctively moved to remove the blindfold, but Cole stopped him.

"It's a surprise, and I can't have you spoiling it by peeking." He said, loosely tying the cloth securely around Kai's eyes. He kept his paw on Kai's hands. Kai sighed and let Cole guide him.

"Can't you trust me by now? What if I promise not to open my eyes?"

"I do trust you, but I also know your curiosity has a nasty little habit of always getting the better of you." He admitted. The scream of wooden doors opening filled Kai's ears. Temporarily blinded, he let Cole guide him inside the mysterious room. They stopped in the middle of the room, and Cole let go of his hands.

"Can I take this thing off now?" Kai said more impatiently than he meant to sound, but there was anxiousness that didn't go unnoticed by Cole.

"Not yet." He whispered. A swoop sound and a gust of wind was his only warning, followed by the screech of reeling curtain holders. The light brightened the darkness covering his eyes and Kai wondered if that was moonlight.

"Now?" He asked with the anticipation of a child waiting for a birthday present. A loud thump was his answer.

"Now," Cole said as he carefully cut the blindfold and moved so he could see Kai's reaction. Kai kept his eyes closed for a second, momentarily fearing what he was going to see but his enthusiasm won and they slowly opened, then bulged with joy. A gasp of delight escaped his mouth and his cheeks flushed with happiness. He spun around taking in the wonder around him and resisted the urge to pinch himself in case he was dreaming all of this.

"This is incredible!" Kai breathed, his amber eyes alive and bright with childish wonder as they took in his special surprise. He was in the largest, most magnificent library he had ever seen. The room was enormous and rectangular with a roof that curved to a slope. Books lined all four of the walls so tall ladders were placed on them in intervals. The shelves were separated only by two enormous stained glass windows stretching all the way to the ceiling.

The moonlight illuminating them in a way the sunlight never could.

In the corner, an elegant golden staircase with spiral patterns carved into the wooden banisters spiraled to a second floor, an entire open circle overlooking the first floor. The bookcases on the second level, looped together like a giant circle stopping just at the base of a huge mural painted in rich detail upon the ceiling. A midnight blue dotted with silver stars with bigger ones forming constellations, whose true forms were painted in brilliant gold lines.

On the ground floor, globes were dotted around as well as several couches and chairs.

Two or three large desks made from giant smoothed slabs of stone made a suitable workstation on either side of the room. Two bookcases stretched from the walls stood on either side of an enormous white marble fireplace trimmed with gold and interline with black onyx. Just above it behind the banister of the second floor rested another huge stain glass window. Only this one was arched and was decorated with the symbol for the Tree of Knowledge.

But what stunned Kai the most were the books.

They were different from the ones he was used to. Each book was an antique, bound in velvet, leather, or hardcovers with thick hinges. Some had locks while others had jewels embedded in the cover. Older volumes had simple plain leather or velvet coverings with only the title on the side. Others were painted a vibrant blue, red or green. Age had dulled the colors, but none of them lost their wisdom. Upon closer inspection, he noticed each elegantly carved bookcase had a sliding glass cover protecting the books from air and moisture.

Even the second floor has multiple glass doors despite the circular shape, showing him these books had not just been well-used but loved and cared for.

Kai practically jumped with excitement, before bolting around and pouncing on Cole in a hug so sudden he almost fell over.

"I take it you like it?" He laughed.

"I love it! I've never seen so many books in my life, or such an amazing place, I mean look at this!" The teen beamed as he raced around like a kid in a candy store, admiring each shelf, each globe, each desk, the fireplace, then bolting up the spiral staircase and exploring the entire top section. He moved so fast Cole got dizzy following him.

"Thank you!" Kai smiled when he came back downstairs, and hugged him tightly. "Thank you! Thank you so much!"

"I'm glad you enjoy it." Cole's smile brightened. Kai's face was almost an exact mirror of the one he'd seen earlier. "Because it's yours." He added and Kai gasped in shock. He examined the hybrid's face for any hint of lies, but when he saw none, the brunette squealed in delight as he wrapped Cole in a tight hug.

"Oh, thank you so much!"...

Past Lives Chapter 5

A week passed since Mystake adopted me from the pet store and that creepy tea lady showed no sign that she knew who I was. She hadn't given me a new name or called me by my old one. I tried talking to her, even though it only came out as little meows, and she just smiled at me and started petting me. It was really nice living with her. She provided me with toys, food, special milk for cats, and a warm cushion next to the counter to nap on.

Every customer who saw me thought I was adorable and would always pet and play with me while they waited for Mystake to pack their teas.

Some people only came into the store just to see me and give me treats. Yep, this was a nice life for a cat. Unfortunately, it wasn't as perfect as it first appeared. I know some of the strays I saw would kill to be in my spot, but all I wanted was to be with my family. My human family. Sadly I didn't know where they were, using a flying boat almost all the time didn't help either. I did get a break, however. During my time as a kitten I learned that the guys had rebuilt the monastery but even though I knew the way there, I couldn't go.

I had to stay inside because I hadn't had my shots or been fixed yet.

Despite all the toys, I quickly found myself being bored from having to stay inside all the time. It didn't help matters that a few stay cats would often stop by and prowl on the street in plain view of me. I have no idea what they wanted, but the way they look at me creeps me out. The weekend rolled around and I heard Mystake talking to a regular about how the shop would be closed down while she was away. The customer had asked her what she was going to do with me and that old woman just smiled and said it was taken care of.

She better not try and leave me in one of those kennels or I'll shred her ugly curtains.

It would probably be an improvement and would be great for my claws. After a few hours of napping on the couch in the down room, I absentmindedly noticed the door to the tea shop open. I barely paid attention to Mystake as she spoke. Instead, my attention was drawn to the window and the bird that was flying around outside it. I kept my eyes trained on the bird while licking my lips. It was like I was completely powerless to resist the flapping wings of a stupid bird.

I could hear someone saying something to Mystake, but I was now batting the window trying to get at the bird.

There was a small gap between the couch and the window, however, making me have to lean across to reach the glass. Leaning too far, I toppled onto the floor. It is officially a lie. Cats do not always land on their feet. This caused me to finally snap out of that trance that horrid bird had placed on me and realized I knew the voice of the new customer. Like a bullet, I shot out the backroom and into the store, almost running into the customer's leg.

I immediately recognized the long white beard.

"SENSEI!" I meowed loudly, but of course, Master Wu didn't understand me.

"Hello, there little one." He greeted me with a small smile as he bent down and started petting me. He must have been here to buy some tea, judging by the four boxes of teas waiting on the counter. It was then I saw how tired and sad he looked. That made sense. I did die and I remembered how we were all depressed when Zane died. "I was not aware you adopted a cat." He said to the old lady as he picked me up so I could see her. More importantly, I could see her smile.

The same smile she had when she was about to put a bitchy Karen in their place.

That smile told me she was planning something.

"He is not mine."

"Really? Then who does he belong to?" Master Wu asked as he started scratching under my chin, causing me to start purring loudly.

"He's yours."

"EXCUSE ME?!" He cried, almost dropping me.

"HEY! WATCH IT!" I hissed angrily as I dug my claws into his hand that was holding me. This caused him to put me down but I remained close, almost sitting on his foot, staring up at him with my big green eyes.

"Mystake, I can not take this animal! The Ninjas are not in the best place at this moment to take care of this kitten."

"That is not a problem; cats can bathe themselves and will keep your new monastery rodent-free." She explained. Yeah, rats were a bit of the problem back when we all lived at the monetary all those years ago. I vividly remember waking up to the sound of Cole and Jay shrieking at the sight of a rat in the bathroom. "Cats are also more low-maintenance and independent as they mature."

"Yeah Master Wu! I'm independent!" I meowed as I made to run and jump on my cushion, only to trip and fall over. Fuck these damn little legs and paws! Thankfully neither human seemed to notice.

"I'm sorry, but none of us are mentally ready to care for this infant creature, not so soon after... Kai..." He trailed as he slightly lowered his head and closed his eyes tightly. I instantly regretted hissing at him. I looked around and brought my sensei a small bell ball Mystake had bought me to play with. I started batting it around and tried to look as cute as possible to cheer him it. It seemed to work because he let out a weak laugh after a few minutes.

"Owning a cat can bring unconditional love and companionship and can be an extremely rewarding relationship." She continued. "Having a feline friend can also help to relieve stress and improve your heart health." She finished and I could almost hear the gears turning in Master Wu's mind. After a few minutes, Master Wu looked at me, sighed, and looked back at Mystake.

"Very well; I will adopt this kitten."...

The Flame and the Dragon Ch18

Chapter 18: The Truth

Kai stumbled as he carried the bundle of clean sheets and thick curtains in his arms while balancing a bucket filled with bars of soap, clothes, and oil polish. Despite taking him back to the castle and tending to his injuries, Cole still gave him punishment for breaking his promise and left the castle grounds. Cole only told him to clean the Lord's room and as a reward, he would let the brunette go for a ride on Flame, who was being pampered in the stables by the staff.

Immediately, he dreaded the job but the thought of seeing Flame sent a wave of joy through him.

Kai chuckled to himself. He couldn't deny it was nice being able to spend time with Cole without having to worry about setting off his temper or arguing with him, but if Cole thought he would be that easy to win over, he was sadly mistaken. His eyes lit up at the challenge until the weight of the objects in his arms brought him back to reality. He groaned in annoyance as he reminded himself of the task at hand. When he found Cole's room again, he was surprised to find the door open and the room empty.

He set the items on a clean-looking spot and dug out the bucket, oil varnish, and a half-melted cake of soap.

He dumped the soap in the bucket and filled it with water from the bathroom, and poured a generous amount of varnish into the water. Supplies in hand, he turned to his opponent and glared. His eyes darted from the dusty furniture to the smudges on the wall, the glass, and furniture scattered across the floor. Fortunately, the sheets had done their job, the couches and chairs were free of dirt. He set the bucket on the floor and fished out the leather gloves the servents had given him and slipped them on, refusing to risk cutting his hands.

Carefully, he gathered the scraps and put them in a pile out of the way until he could figure out what to do with them.

Fortunately, none of the pieces were too heavy or large, but the tiny scraps littered the floor. Dropping to his hands and knees, he meticulously scanned the floor until he'd moved every visible scrap to a harmless location. He sighed and fell back on his knees, pulling off his gloves and tucking them into his pocket. Not wanting to ruin any more clothes, he slipped off his jacket and placed it on a nearby chair. He tied a clean cloth around his mouth to keep away the dust.

He grabbed the bucket, the rags, and the rest of the equipment and began attacking the layers of dust covering the furniture.

Painstakingly, he dug into each crevice, leaving a glossy trail in his wake. By the time he finished the furniture, the dust and holes caked the rag, making it useless. He fished out another cloth and attacked the walls. He growled as higher smudges mocked his height and stretched on his toes, scrubbing the black smudges, fiercely. His arm screamed with each stroke. When he couldn't bear the pain, he finally receded and switched hands letting his sore arm fall limp at his side.

He exhaled deeply in liberation an hour later from exhaustion.

His eyes wandered from the pale spots on the wall to the smudges on the floor. Groaning, he dunked a thicker rag in the bucket and carpet and brushed with passion. He stopped and wiped the sweat from his brow, his arms ached with stiffness. When the last smudge faded, leaving bright blue in its wake, he threw the destroyed cloth in the bucket and struggling to lift it. His muscles screamed at him until he dumped his burden in Cole's bathroom sink.

Free at last, he rewarded himself by collapsing in the nearest piece of furniture which turned out to be the bed.

He sighed in relief and let gravity sink his body into the softness of the bed, his arms liquefying with numbness when he tried to move them. His legs dangled over the bedside. A smirk of victory crossed his face. Now all he needed to do was replace the sheets and he was done. He lost count of how many hours he'd been working. For all he knew, he'd been asleep most of the morning and it was already late afternoon. He wasn't sure he cared anymore.

Finally, his body gave and he closed his eyes in relaxation.

"Damn, did you do everything?" A voice suddenly said. Kai's eyes popped open. He jumped in surprise and whirled around just in time to see Cole standing in the doorway balancing a tray of food in his hands. His eyes scanned the room from top to bottom, raising an impressed brow. "You did a nice job."

"Thank you." Kai smiled as he stood on his feet, stumbling slightly from the heaviness of his body. "I still have to do the sheets before I can see Flame, right?" He asked hopefully. Cole frowned and gestured towards the window. Kai's heart sank. Darkness had already crept across the sky, and the last traces of sunlight were the deep purple and reds of dusk. "That's impossible! I only lied down for a few minutes!" He protested, his eyes unintentionally drawing him to the window, pressing his forehead against the glass.

"You must've fallen asleep," Cole concluded, looking around the room again. "Not that I blame you, you certainly did more than I expected."

"Damnit! All that work for nothing!" Kai cursed and pressed his head against the glass hard enough for the sound to echo. Cole almost laughed at the teen's mild tantrum.

"Now you will have the entire day to spend with your horse, and it's supposed to be nice tomorrow." He said as he sat the tray on the table, strolled over to the teen, and gently grasped his shoulders. Kai was taken aback when he was pulled from his position and guided towards the table. He took a seat in a chair that was far too big for him. His stomach sang with glee at the sight of the food Shade must've prepared for him. The thick aroma of spices and meats caused his mouth to water.

"Now eat before it gets cold, otherwise you'll give Shade a heart attack," Cole said, motioning for the teen to eat up. "Besides, I know for a fact you haven't eaten since yesterday and you're much too thin as it is." He teased and Kai surrendered, his eyes widening as he took in what Shade had prepared. A large bowl of thick tomato soup with a plate of bread spread with garlic and herbs and mushrooms boiled in butter formed the appetizers. A whole hen baked to a golden brown and dressed with chestnut and hazelnut stuffing formed the centerpiece.

A separate plate of roasted eggs, potatoes sprinkled with parsley and a plate of biscuits sat next to it.

A bottle of light blackberry wine and two jeweled encrusted goblets completed the meal. He wasted no time, and dove for the closest thing he could find. Devouring the soup, a biscuit, and the spread toast, he moved onto the mushrooms. He ate half the chicken before Cole grabbed his hand and offered him a goblet of wine.

"Slow down before you choke." He commanded. He swallowed a mouthful of food and blushed, mortified by his bad manners.

"Sorry, I guess I was hungrier than I thought." He apologized, taking the goblet. He sipped the wine, noticing Cole had not moved except to stop him. "Aren't you going to eat anything?" he asked, concerned. Cole's eyes widened. His face too confused to respond as if he'd never been asked such a question. "Here, there's more than enough here for two." He suggested, offering the plate of mushrooms.

"I... I don't need to eat."

"But... you do eat, don't you?"

"I can, I just don't need to."

"So, in other words, just because you don't need to do something, you don't do it?"

"Exactly."

"That sounds boring," Kai commented, taking an empty plate and set one of everything on it, then filled the second glass with wine. Cole opened his mouth to question the action only for Kai to place the plate and goblet in front of him. Cole stared at the food with confusion, then back at the grinning teenager.

"Did you not hear what I just told you?"

"I heard you, but you can still eat and Shade's food is delicious, I can't eat all of it and he'll be crushed if we throw some of it out."

"I just told you, I don't need to eat." Cole snapped, biting back his annoyance. "If there's no point to things, why do them?"

"Haven't you ever just done something for the sake of doing it?" Kai interrogated, trying to keep his voice civil. "If not for any other reason than because you can, or to have fun, or to try something new?" He asked and to emphasized his point, he picked up the plate and held it closer to Cole. "When was the last time you actually tasted something? I'll bet one bite and you won't stop."

"Why does it matter?" Cole replied harshly, snatching the plate away and setting it back on the table. "If I don't need something, then what's the point? It's such a waste if something isn't done for a purpose."

"It's not a waste! It's not poison and besides, you not eating means it will go to waste and your staff would've worked hard for nothing." Kai scolded, gesturing with a swing of his hand to address everyone who wasn't in the room.

"I adore my staff, thank you very much, but I doubt my lack of appetite bothers them," Cole answered in a dry tone. "They still eat, though I fail to see the reason why, and regardless, they have always found other ways to entertain themselves in the past." He snarled. Kai's brow narrowed but he had a mischievous smirk on his face.

"But not what they want to do, so everyone else is denied their wants solely because you have nothing better to do but wallow in your room? No wonder you're so grouchy all the time, you must bore yourself to death."

"You really don't know when to bite your tongue, do you?"

"Well spare me for trying to bring a little sunshine to the doom and gloom you call your life." Kai protested, getting to his feet. "I just don't understand you, you have an entire castle here, people who adore your company, and all you do is lock yourself in this room and break things! It's like you purposely go out of your way to make yourself miserable and everyone worries themselves sick because of it." He glared and Cole was on his feet in an instant, anger in his eyes.

"I have my reasons and they are none of your concern nor anyone else's." He countered harshly and turned left. Using his smaller stature to his advantage, Kai cut in front of him, forcing Cole to look at him.

"It is my concern and everyone else's when everyone worries about you." Kai protested passionately. "All the time I hear everyone worrying over you and wondering why you've never left your room; the last two weeks, all they did was ask me what happened to you, and ever since I arrived here, I've been wondering what I did to make you so angry with me!" He blurted out. Cole's expression dropped. The anger from before had vanished, leaving Cole's face a mask of neutrality.

Kai froze and bit his lip as an awkward silence passed between them.

His eyes hadn't left Cole's but he felt himself shaking slightly beneath that gaze. Finally, Cole shook his head, a line formed on his lips.

"If you're referring to the incident in the ballroom, you can relax, I'm not angry at you for that; our... conversation just brought up a few bad memories and I overreacted and your rudeness did little to soften my temper so we were both at fault and it's done." He replied and Kai wobbled a bit, almost sick with relief, but another question came to mind. He opened his mouth to ask, but he bit it back. The rift between them was already large enough.

"What is it?" Cole ordered, curiosity softening the command.

"Nothing," Kai replied, lowering his gaze.

"You wanted to ask me something," Cole observed. Kai didn't look up until the tip of the dragon's tail curled beneath his chin. Cole's arms crossed over his chest, an amused smile crossed his face as he leaned over to meet Kai's eye level. "I know from past experience what happens when your curiosity isn't satisfied, so ask." He said humorously, but there was forcefulness as well. Kai had never been afraid of Cole before the previous night, and he wasn't now, but the knot in his gut twisted.

His voice felt like it vanished.

He froze in place, enthralled by the desire to see what was beyond those emerald depths but the fear of adding another layer to the barrier between them was equally as strong. As if sensing the teenager's dilemma, Cole's expression softened. "Whatever it is, I promise I won't get upset." He added. The statement broke the enchantment. Kai closed his eyes and exhaled a breath.

"Is that your family?" He asked. Completely blown away, by the statement Cole's face dropped to one of flabbergasted silence

"What do you mean?" He asked in a breathy voice, releasing Kai from his grip. His tail curled nervously at his feet. Kai swallowed, almost too afraid to ask, but knowing it was too late, his eyes wandered to the painting on the other side of the room. The cloth had been removed when he changed it and now it was open and visible beneath its glass case.

"The painting over there, are they your family?" He asked with concerned eyes, silently praying he hadn't unintentionally tread into forbidden territory. Cole didn't answer, but the look of conflict on his face spoke for him. He was torn between anger, anguish, and something else. Kai opened his mouth to apologize but Cole raised a hand.

"Don't apologize, you were only curious." He said quickly, silencing any apology. Cole swooped past him, quickly strolling to the balcony, and braced himself on the table where the candle rested. His claws sank into the table as he gave a heavy sigh.

"It's alright if you don't want to say anything." Kai blurted out quickly, his mind racing for some way to repair the rift he knew he'd increased. Cole shot up and the second his eyes met Kai, the teen looked at the ground. "I won't pry into your private life."

"It's not that!" Cole said quickly, hoping to remove the young man's unwarranted guilt. "You've done nothing wrong, it's just something I've come to accept; I know I can't change it no matter how much I wish I could, so I've just accepted it." He explained, turning his back to Kai, who looked at him with wide eyes. Realization at their misunderstanding dawned on him, and he shook his head, turning his attention back to the painting then Cole.

"Are you talking about the curse?" He asked, without thinking. Cole shot up, completely astounded by the statement. He knew the boy knew who he was, but he was forbidden to speak of the details nonetheless.

"I read it in a book," Kai explained with a small smile. "The librarian gave it to me, it's my favorite book." He explained, trying to stifle a laugh at the jaw-dropped expression on Cole's face. "I didn't believe it at first, but it told about this castle, the prince who lived here, the sorcerer who cursed him for no sin other than wanting to protect his kingdom; I wasn't even sure it was real until I saw you for the first time and I later found out Zane wrote it."

"I don't believe this," Cole muttered as he collapsed in a nearby chair, his face a mask of pure shock.

"It wasn't that difficult to figure out, everyone does a horrible job of hiding it every time I ask about it, how dense do they think I am?" He explained with a laugh.

"It isn't that, they can't tell you." He explained, noticing the cute look of confusion on Kai's face. "It is part of our curse, no one can reveal the details of it or how to break it to an outsider; Zane is the only exception because he wrote it down." He laughed to himself at the irony.

"Wait, you mean you knew about it?"

"Yeah, who do you think gave him permission to do so?" Cole laughed, standing up. He hooked a hand around Kai's arm, pulling him to his feet with such swiftness their eyes met again. "I was joking at the time, I'm glad he took me seriously."

"Yes, but that still doesn't answer my question." He replied. "Is that your family? You don't have to tell me about them, I just wasn't sure; they look a lot like you, so I just assumed." He added gently. Cole's face was unreadable as he let Kai go. His eyes darted back to the painting of the happy family safely locked away behind the glass, carefully taking in every detail.

"Why do you want to know?" He asked his voice stoic and his eyes absent of emotion.

"Because I want to get to know you." He answered honestly. His eyes and voice held true conviction, not a flicker of doubt. "The real you, not the character I read in a book or the façade you put up to keep people away, I want to know the real Cole." He said passionately. Finally, Cole closed his eyes and shook his head with a small smile at the boy before him. He walked past Kai with a commanding aura. Kai's gaze followed him until he saw Cole had stopped in front of the painting.

His claws gently glided over the glass and gently caressed the cheek of the girl in the painting.

"My mother was the sweetest person you'd ever meet." He sighed sadly. "She had a heart of gold and a temper to match, do not mistake her though, you would not wish to anger her in fact, those who did often wish they hadn't but she was fair in her discipline; all children in the kingdom she considered her own and it was her personal duty to help all the orphans in any way she could; there was not a soul you could find who didn't love her and I doubt there was anything about her you couldn't love."

"She sounds so kind."

"She was a firm ruler, a tough woman, and a very strict parent." He smiled and, for a moment, Kai swore it was the smile of a child longing for his mother. "My father loved us with every fiber of his soul but he was always willing to sacrifice his own time and happiness for the good of his kingdom." He continued. "He didn't sit around and let officials do the work for him and when something needed to be built or when there was a battle, he was there; he always said a King is only as good as the people who follow him and he never asked his people to do anything he himself wouldn't do." Cole paused for a minute to chuckle at the memory.

"That's a good thing to teach."

"That was the first lesson he taught me; respect for my people." The Dragon Lord smiled at the memory. "I hated it when I was younger; always having to go into town and work, but my father was firm with me, especially in his discipline; despite his duties, however, he always made time for us, and every day, he'd take my sister and I horseback riding or he'd educate us on what it meant to be King; he wasn't there as much as I would've liked, but I also understood his reasons." He sighed heavily.

Kai felt his heart jump as he heard Cole speak, never before had he spoken so kindly, so happily.

It was like he was living a dream and nothing else mattered. He stood up and strolled over to his side.

"They sound wonderful." He smiled, recalling his own parents before they passed away.

"They were."

"Is that your sister?" Kai asked, gesturing a hand to the young girl in the image. Cole didn't answer at first. Instead, he knelt down to meet the eyes of the girl.

"I loved my sister the most, even though she was adopted." He replied.

"She was disowned by her original guardian, but it didn't matter to me or my parents; she was my sister and she meant the world to me, I adored her and she looked up to me and I promised her I'd do anything to protect her." His voice was bright with adoration that Kai swore could only rival his own love for Lloyd. "She was so young." His voice faded to a whisper as his forehead pressing against the glass. "She did nothing wrong." He mumbled. His claws clenched, scratching the glass.

"Neither did you," Kai added, with a small grin of understanding. "Is that why you lock yourself away here? To punish yourself?" He asked and the dragon hybrid looked up. Fierce emeralds bore straight into concerned ambers. The younger held still, not pressuring him but waiting for an answer.

"Why are you so persistent?"

"Why do you avoid answering me?" Kai persisted, his glare hardening. "Am I correct?"

"It doesn't matter," Cole huffed before he turned around and started towards the door, his tail wrapping around Kai's waist gesturing for him to follow. Kai dug his heels into the ground, wincing as the scaly appendage tightened. He bit his lip to keep from crying out. Cole tugged on him, but the stubborn teen remained firm, refusing to back down. Finally, Kai slapped the appendage away and glared at the king. Cole winced, more shocked than angry by the strike.

"What is the matter with you?" He demanded harshly, moving to grab the teen, but Kai evaded his talons, refusing to let time repeat.

"Why is it so hard to answer me?"

"Why does it matter?" He growled at the teen's boldness, his tail whipping at his side, filling the room with loud smacks every time it struck something. "Go back to your room, Kai, you're done here." He ordered, pointing to the door.

"I am not leaving until you answer me!" He shouted and Cole saw red. Before either of them could react he roughly grabbed his upper arm and pinned him against the glass, but not hard enough to hurt him, only immobilize him.

"You are the most stubborn person I have ever met!"

"Funny, I was just about to say the same thing about you! Now let go of me, this instant!" He yelled as he wrenched his arms, but Cole harshly tugged him closer, making him wince.

"You know nothing about me!" The dragon hybrid snapped, shaking the teen slightly.

"That's exactly my point!" Kai argued, clawing at the man's talons with his free hand, in a weak attempt to earn release from his captor's grip, digging his heels into the ground. "You only tell me about everyone else, but you never say anything about yourself! And when I ask you why you stay here, you change the subject or avoid it? Why! You did nothing wrong! So why are you punishing yourself for a crime you didn't commit?"

"You think I don't know that!" Cole exploded, with such force that Kai went silent. Slightly afraid of the mad anger in the Lord's face, Kai stopped his resistance, paralyzed. He put up no resistance as Cole forcefully pulled him closer. "I know I did nothing wrong! I know there was nothing I could've done! Is it better knowing I could do nothing but watch as my entire family vanished right before my eyes and I could do nothing to save them? That I could do nothing to stop the monster who stole them from me from turning me into this repulsive creature? Yes, I'm well aware of that!"

A disturbing silence fell between them, disturbed only by Cole's heavy breathing.

Slowly, regaining his composure, Kai's gaze softened, and his voice civilized.

"So you are punishing yourself." He concluded in an expressionless voice. He'd braced himself for a blow, expecting Cole to strike him, or yell at him once more, but he did neither. Instead, he responded in the last way Kai expected him to. He laughed. Low pearls rolled off his lips like small dark chuckled, before finally erupting into a triumphant burst of hysterics.

"You think I blame myself for that?" Cole mocked, still laughing. "I'd have to be a damned fool to even think that? Why should I when I know the real culprit?" He asked, breathless from laughing. The Dragon Lord then released him and with a shove, more powerful than he intended, threw the teen back into an armchair he'd backed himself against. Kai hissed at the treatment, but his eyes never left Cole's. Cole strolled across the table, bracing himself against an opposite chair, his head hung low as he continued to laugh.

"You really want to know?" He asked with sadness. Regaining himself, Kai nodded, suddenly alert.

"So persistent, fine I'll tell you." Cole chuckled darkly and his voice drifted off. "I stay here because it's easier this way; it's safer, keeping everyone at arm's length so they can't abandon you because they can't stand the sight of you and they can't insult you or turn you away despite all you've done for them because you're a monster; I've done nothing wrong, but still the world rejects and repulses me; I've long accepted I'm a monster." He explained.

Bitter sarcasm drenched his retort with venom.

Each anguished word, poisoned with a frightening familiarity, all while Kai absorbed each brutal word.

"I just don't like being reminded what I already know." He concluded. "It's just safer this way."

"You fool!" Kai protested in a tone so sharp, Cole shot up. Kai's eyes were locked on the floor, his hands balled into fists at his sides and his frame shook violently with rage. "You're a fool, Cole!" He exploded.

"How dare you!" Cole erupted, rage and betrayal in his voice. He was a fool for accepting sympathy.

"Yes, I dare!" Kai countered, stepping forward until he was face to face with the hybrid. "How dare you just give up!" He paused, voice shaking with anger as he tried to find the right words. "You were betrayed, shunned, and abandoned, I don't blame you for that! But how dare you give in to those accusations! So what?! Just because a bunch of heartless traitors shun you and tell you you're a monster that automatically makes it true? When do you ever listen to anyone but yourself!?" He demanded angrily.

Cole's talons ceased the teen by his shoulders and lifted him off the ground, growling with rage.

"You know nothing! You don't know anything that I've been through! You have no idea what it's to be shunned and hated for nothing! You have no idea!" He bellowed so loud Kai was sure the whole castle shook. Kai flinched at the words, not by the harshness in the man's accusation but by its inaccuracy. He shoved the man off him, so hard, Cole was taken aback by the force and stumbled backward. His legs hit those of the armchair and he fell back, but before he could forget, Kai braced his hands on either arm, pinning the man beneath him.

Stunned by the sudden action, Cole froze, paralyzed by the ferocity and gravity in the intense gaze.

"You think I don't know what it's like to be hated? To be shunned and mocked through no fault of my own? Do you think I don't feel something when I see the way people look at me and whisper about me as I walk by? You don't think I know they think I'm a freak! Just because everyone agrees I'm some brazen youth whose only purpose in life should be to marry some pompous aristocrat, live in a gilded cage, and raise spoiled children until I croak means I should accept it and do it?" His shaking grew work as he spoke.

Passion and rage consumed him, and he narrowed his eyes, biting back the tears threatening to fall.

"At least I don't give up! At least I don't just give up and accept what everyone thinks! Because they're wrong! And I know they are! Even if they all agree, even if everyone and everything thinks you're something doesn't mean you are, right? Even if they drill it into your skull, even if they convince you you're a monster or a freak! That doesn't mean it's true!" He finished screaming, his entire body shook violently. Without bothering to wait for a reaction from the stunned Lord, Kai pulled back and turned to leave, knowing he couldn't keep himself in control any longer.

He didn't get far.

In a flash, Cole blocked the man's path with his wings, carefully placing a talon on his shoulder, and gently turned him to face him, but Kai refused to meet his gaze.

"Kai, wait!" Cole called softly. When the teen looked up, Cole's eyes widened. Tears streaked the teen's face like transparent rivers. Droplets accumulated on Kai's chin until they finally dropped to the floor or dampened Cole's claws.

"What!" The teenager snapped, harshly, furiously rubbing away the signs of his weakness. Even with tears falling from Kai's eyes, fire blazed in them. Those same indomitable eyes he adored, at first sight, blazed with so many emotions at once. Anger, anguish, sympathy, disgust, hurt. It was hard to tell who they were for or what emotions were directed at whom. Frozen at the sight before him, Cole moved a clawed hand to catch the tears, unsure how to react.

The Lord gently brushed his chest, wondering why his heart suddenly felt like it sprang free, and why hit hurt when he saw the tears, he tried so hard to force back fall.

"Kai, I'm sorry, I didn't mean..." He choked, sincerely. Kai froze at the sudden apology, barely feeling the leathery wings wrap around him. He found Cole staring at him, guilt and remorse glazed his features. His eyes softened when they met his gently demanding the truth "Are you speaking about me or yourself?" He asked and Kai moved his arm to wipe away his tears before responding.

"Both." He replied. Just then two arms wrapped around him and pulled him into a tight, warm embrace. Cole gently brushed away the remains of his tears, careful not to prick the delicate skin with his claws. Unable to resist, he carefully leaned down and gently kissed the remaining tears away. Kai froze when the king pulled back, his face crimson. His voice died in his throat, unsure of how to respond to the sudden gesture, even as his finger subconsciously brushed the tender area the kiss left behind.

Cole smiled at the reaction and gently stroked the kindred spirit's soft hair hoping to calm him before gently whispering.

"No one has ever cried for my sake." He whispered as he embraced the boy tighter, enjoying the warmth Kai's body radiated. Relishing in the comfort, Kai leaned his forehead against Cole's chest, the soft material of Cole's shirt brushed against his cheek, cushioned by the lean muscles beneath. Cole wrapped his arms and tail around his waist, his wings wrapping them in a cocoon of bliss. Kai finally collapsed, emotionally exhausted, his body felt heavy with bliss.

The Dragon Lord followed his example, taking the teen with him, fell back into his chair.

His body felt as though an enormous burden had been lifted from his being and the loss of such a weight had left him immobile with peace. Cole hummed as he gently running his claws through the silky brunette locks, not caring whether or not Kai heard him. The teen smiled as he faded in and out of consciousness and exhaustion started to take its toll on him. Cole closed his own eyes, letting his hand fall limply at his side...

****************

When he opened his eyes, Cole couldn't recall where he was. He closed his eyes and shook his head for a moment, gently brushing his claw through his black hair. He looked down, feeling a heavyweight on his chest. He almost jumped up in surprise when he found his house guest curled against his chest like a cat. Once the memories returned, however, he calmed himself down and smiled. He had to admit, Kai looked adorable while he slept.

So peaceful and innocent, without a care in the world.

The opposite of the fiery, strong-willed spirit he was when he awoke. Cole decided to let him sleep for a bit longer. He carefully gathered the teen in his arms and carried him to his bed. He brushed aside the veils with his tail and gently placed the boy on his side, pulling the comforter over him. His eyes fell back on the half-eaten tray of food on the table. He tested it with his finger. It was cold but not enough to be inedible. He paused for a bit when he heard a stir behind him.

"Cole?" Kai called half-consciously. Kai rolled onto his stomach and rubbed the sleep from his eyes, blearily looking for the other man. He found him by the table gathering the food and goblets from before.

"I'm just cleaning up," Cole said over his shoulder. He watched as Kai rolled over and sat upon the bed, kicking off his boots and letting his jacket slip from his shoulders. Perhaps letting him sleep in his clothes wasn't such a good idea. He left the plates on the table and strolled over to the wardrobe, searching for something light. His eyes darted to something bright on the table. Closer inspection revealed the garment was a folded pile of red silk glowing like a hot beacon among the dark color scheme.

He snatched up the garment and let the slippery material fall open, revealing an angel-sleeved robe that fell to the knees.

The size indicated it was much too small for him but saw it would fit Kai perfectly. His sharp eyes caught a white note in the pocket. He pulled it out and his eyes skinned it over, instantly recognizing Harumi's handwriting.

For Kai, since he'll probably need it.

His jaw clenched and his face reddened as he crumpled the note in his hand, reminding himself she was too valuable to kill. He could just hear the implication. What the hell did she think they'd be doing? Cole purposely chose not to answer that question. He took a breath and composed himself before placing the garment over his arm and exiting the wardrobe. Having grown used to his dragon scales, sleeping in his clothes no longer bothered him.

When he returned, he paused for a moment.

His eyes drank in the delicious sight of his house guest stripped to only his pants. Cole smirked, licking his fangs at the delicious creamy-caramel skin, briefly wondering if it tasted as sweet as it looked. Deciding to take advantage of the situation before the teen returned to full waking, he slowly strolled over to him. His tail grabbed the blanket as Kai climbed back into the bed. Kai growled, half exhausted, annoyed, and yanked the comforter.

Cole won the small war, the younger being too tired to argue.

When he noticed Kai's eyes starting to brighten, he waited until the teen turned to glare at him. When Kai did so, he held out the robe to him, smiling. Kai blinked in confusion as the slippery material fell into his hands.

"It isn't very comfortable sleeping in your clothes," Cole answered the unasked question. chuckling slightly at the boy's confusion. Realization caused Kai's eyes to bulge and he looked at Cole, then robe, then down at himself. Kai instinctively pulled the robe to his chest, his face scarlet as he glared at the smirking king.

"Cole!" He howled, more from mortification than anger.

"Relax, you can change in the bathroom." Cole smiled, gesturing to the door next to the wardrobe. With as much dignity as the teen could muster, Kai stood up, still clutching the robe, and disappeared into the bathroom. He released a sigh of relief seeing that it was clean. Chuckling, Cole returned to his earlier work, glaring down at the chicken bones, empty plates, and goblet. The wine bottle had been resealed, but the second goblet was still half-full and small amounts of appetizers littered the smaller plates.

"It would be a waste," He agreed, gathering all the food onto one large plate and stacking the dirty ones. He grabbed the half-full goblet, debating its fate. Dumping it would be a waste, but he couldn't return it to the bottle either. His eyes narrowed at the tempting liquid. He couldn't recall the last time he had wine. Hadn't Kai said something about seizing the moment?

"Oh what the hell?" He finally decided, raising the goblet to his lips. A mixture of richness and a sweet woody tang ignited his senses. His eyes flew open. The small sip turned into a large gulp, then another, then another, determined to capture the burning the liquid brought him. He gorged himself until every drop was gone from the goblet then wrenched it away to breathe. "God, I'd forgotten how good this stuff is." He said loudly as if buzzed by the minimal alcohol.

He wiped his mouth on his shirt and turned to the appetizers.

He scooped up a biscuit and took a bite. It was cold and the butter had hardened, but the combination tasted divine. He downed the other half in one gulp, unable to resist the pleasure it brought to his taste buds. He grabbed another appetizer, this time, a piece of bread with the garlic and herb spread and bit down. The bread tasted harder than the biscuit but the pasty spread had softened it, the sharpness of herbs leaving a bittersweet desire for more.

He swallowed the delicious treat before eating another one, deciding to savor the taste before it was gone.

Potatoes dripping with garlic butter went down thick and creamy. Next was the stuffed mushroom. Juice trickled down his chin and the rich, stuffing crunched in his mouth, savoring each bite until he could stand it no longer and swallowed the rest. He licked his lips and fingers, determined to capture the remains of the taste before opening the wine again and downing the rest of the bottle. The taste of berry juice flushed his senses while the sharp brisk of alcohol burned his throat.

He gulped the juice, not even bothering to stop as his lungs screamed for air and his throat burned.

He pulled the bottle from his lips and gasped as the final drop went down. He was buzzed from the ecstasy of the experience. He wobbly placed the empty bottle on the tray and carefully got to his feet. The buzz of drunkenness beginning to slip away as his body cleared his system of the alcohol.

"I told you so." A familiar voice chuckled lightly. The Dragon Lord almost dropped the bottle. His heart plunged into his stomach as he whirled around, just in time to catch the wide grin on Kai's face as he leaned in the doorway, his arms crossed over his chest. His eyes were brilliant with triumph and his grin nearly split his face, alerting Cole he had seen the entire scene. Ignoring the blush on his face and the large bruise on his ego, Cole got to his feet and glared at the teen.

Kai said nothing.

He removed himself from the door and walking back towards the bed, the red robe he was wearing perfectly molded his form and leaving nothing to the imagination, but Cole barely noticed. His blush worsening and his glare hardening as Kai's grin spoke more than a thousand voices. Kai sat on the bed and smiled at him, daring him to counter him.

"Go to bed!" Cole finally snapped, plopping down on an armchair. Kai smiled and shook his head...

Past Lives Chapter 4

I held in a growl as I glared all the hell and fury I could muster towards the beagle across the room. That drooly face asshole was always taunting me, I'm sure of it, and no, it's not just because I'm a cat now. With more effort than I wanted, I managed to tear my gaze from that mangy mutt and turned my attention to Bella and her husband Harry as they did their work around the pet store. During my time here, I learned that I was reborn as a Maine Coon kitten.

I was part of a litter of twelve to a mother cat called Audrey and we were all just over eight weeks old now.

We were living in Bella and Harry's family pet store called Animal Crackers. It was a pretty small store but was almost bursting at the seams with stuff. They sold tons of pet supplies like bowls, toys, beds, and offered pet grooming. They even sold their own homemade pet treats. Bella gave us some and, even though I would never openly admitted, they tasted like tiny pieces of heaven in biscuits. They also sold almost a dozen different pets here.

Most were small animals like hamsters, guinea pigs, rabbits, rats, budgies, and a few large tanks filled with many colorful fishes.

There were two other cat families in the store and that fucking beagle was the only dog here. Now we were eight weeks old, the lovely couple was putting me and the other kittens up for sale. Four of the other kittens had already been sold, so now there were only eight of us left, but the cage was still pretty cramped. Not that I didn't care about my new brothers and sisters, though. We all got on really well and played together all day, every day.

I almost laughed as I recalled some of the other pets yelling about us to our momma cat for chasing and playing with balls of yarn and loud squeaky toys.

But I knew it wouldn't last forever. The litter was growing smaller and smaller every day. I vividly remembered Bella taking pictures of us to put on the company website in hopes it would help us get adopted faster and she forgot to turn the flash off on the first three times. My eyes still hurt remembering it.

"HEY!" I cried as one of my new siblings suddenly tackled me. I quickly regained my senses and wished I still had my fire powers. It was the demon spawn I had the misfortune of calling my sister. Unlike Nya, this blonde, blue-eyed bitch was a monster. She stole everyone's food, destroyed all our toys, and attacked anyone she wanted. She was probably the only thing I hated more than that stupid beagle. Apparently, I was her new target for today.

"PISS OFF YOU PEST!" I hissed as I tried swatting her.

"MAKE ME!" She meowed loudly before she tried to bite me. As we rolled around and fought, neither of us heard the cage opening until a pair of hands picked us up and separated us. I looked up and saw Harry had picked us up.

"What's wrong?" Bella asked her husband as she approached them.

"These two were scrapping again and I had to intervene." He replied and Bella sighed as she took me from Harry. Good, the further away from that bitch of a sister the better. I missed Nya.

"I wonder what they were fighting about." She said as she stroked my head with her finger. I couldn't help purring, it was so relaxing.

"They were probably just play fighting and it got a bit rough," Harry suggested and I could swear my cat sister was smirking. She was the only blond kitten in our litter, the rest of us were dark brown, and Harry loved to spoil her. "Why didn't Audrey stop them?"

"To be fair Harry, she has got six other kittens to care for, that's why we had to hand rear some of them," Bella replied. Before either of them could say anything else, the bell rang as the door suddenly opened, signaling a new customer had entered the store. Both humans turned, allowing me to see a person wearing a conical straw hat walking over to the owners. For a split second, I thought it was Master Wu. Then the person lifted their head and disappointment filling my tiny, fluffy body when I saw it was Mystake.

She eyed me for a few seconds, before looking up at Bella.

"Can we help you, Miss?" Bella asked in her best customer service voice.

"Yes, I would like to adopt this kitten." She said and pointed at me. Does she know who I am?

"Are you sure? Wouldn't you like to have a look at the other kittens?" Harry suggested but Mystake shook her head.

"No, I must have this one please." She repeated. Bella and Harry shared a look before Bella sighed as she took my sister from her husband and placed us both back in the cage. After making sure the cage was properly locked, she led Mystake to the office to fill out the necessary paperwork and payment while Harry did his rounds around the store. That blond pest hissed at me one last time before wandering off to annoy our other brothers and sisters.

"Well done my kitten, I'm so happy that you're going to your forever home." My momma cat, Audrey, purred as she started my head and back. I purred as I leaned into her touch.

"Momma, how come you don't give us names?" I suddenly asked. All my time as a kitten, I had never heard her call any of us by a name. Audrey paused to think for a moment before she finally answered.

"It's not my place to give you a name, that is for your humans to decide." She said and I frowned. What about stray cats? Before I could ask her, however, Bella returned with Mystake. The old tea lady had a shopping bag that was filled with cat stuff for me. Bella unlocked the cage and I was quickly picked up. I gave my cat family one last look before I was gently placed in a plastic pet carrier. A blanket was placed over the carrier, covering me in total darkness.

I heard Bella gave Mystake some last-minute advice about how to help a kitten adjust to a new home.

Then I felt Mystake begin to walk and soon I heard the loud noises of the outside world. Even though I had a strong feeling Mystake knew something and was hopefully taking me back to my real family, a part of me would miss the pet store and my cat family, mainly my momma cat. Except for my kitten sister. She was literally the worst...

The Flame and the Dragon Ch17

Chapter 17: The Reason

"Would you hold still?!" Kai snapped, pulling the cloth soaked with medical herbs from the kitchen away.

"That stings!" Cole argued as he moved his clawed hand to cover the wound and prevent Kai from touching it but hissed every time his claws grazed the surface of the wound. Kai snorted feeling his blood boil in rage. He'd had to drag the man back to the castle and wake up some of the servants to get the things he needed. Then he had to drag Cole to the kitchen and force him to sit on the table. Shade all but exploded when the two entered the kitchen covered in leaves, dirt, and blood, all of which were scattered all over the room.

Then he practically buried Kai and Cole with questions when he saw the wound on the man's chest, despite Cole's insistence that it was only a scratch and that he was fine.

He only managed to free himself of the other noirette's badgering by pointing to Kai. The brunette was digging through the cabinets for anything he could use. Shade all but exploded. Now, Kai had to put up with the Dragon Lord acting like a child while he tried to remove his coat and the remains of his shirt to nurse his wounds. His already thinning patience was on the verge of snapping.

"If you'd hold still, and let me clean the damn thing, it wouldn't hurt as much!"

"If you hadn't run away, this never would've happened!" Cole yelled in a voice bitter with sarcasm before he deliberately scolded. "Do you have any idea how stupid that was? How much danger you were in! You were only lucky you were on your way back to the castle, or I wouldn't have been able to save you!" He shouted. Kai growled and threw down the washcloth.

"If you hadn't started blasting things and scaring me, I never would've left!" The teen countered, if for nothing more than to wipe the smirk off the man's face. "You scared the shit out of me!"

"You shouldn't have been in the West Wing in the first place! You were specifically told what it was, by several people I might add, and I never permitted you to enter my room! How would you feel if someone entered your room without permission? And don't lie to me because we both know you've would've reacted the same way!" Cole retorted. Kai felt his ego bruise at that comment and opened his mouth to protest but bit back the words and exhaled.

"You're right." He said with no emotion. Cole was stunned and clearly not expecting such a response.

"I beg your pardon?"

"I said you are right." He repeated in a more civil voice. He was tired of this blame game. "I shouldn't have gone into your room without your permission and I'm sorry." He said and his apology was sincere, but when he looked up again, his fierce eyes bore into Cole's. The dragon hybrid sat frozen by the intensity. "But I'm not the only one at fault here! You should learn to control your temper!" He scolded. Instantly, Cole opened his mouth to counter but immediately realized he had no answer.

He felt his pride deflate when he realized the boy was right. He had lost his temper, but he refused to take all the blame for this.

"I'm the only one with a temper or at fault here! You should learn to listen and do what you're told!"

"I already know that!" Kai snapped, collapsing into a chair. "I'm too impulsive; it's one of my faults but, to be honest, if you weren't always hiding maybe I wouldn't be so curious." He mumbled out loud, dumping more yarrow on the cloth. "I've been here almost a month and the only thing I know about you is that you have a temper, you're a control freak and you can throw energy."

"Haven't you ever heard 'curiosity killed the cat'?" Cole snorted but chuckled lightly.

"Yeah, I have." Kai chuckled. "As a kid, I always heard the story of Bluebeard; everyone always said it was supposed to show how curiosity only causes trouble." He chuckled then smiled. "But I always thought that if that were true and the girl obeyed her husband, he would've killed her anyway, and start the process all over again, but because of her curiosity, not only did she find out the truth, she and her brothers managed to kill the guy and save a lot of other girls from suffering the same fate." He burst out laughing at the memory.

Cole just stared as he listened intensely.

"No one could answer that one, not even Mom and Dad said curiosity was a double-edged sword; it helps us learn new things and make discoveries but if we let it get the better of us, we set ourselves up for trouble and I always let mine get the best of me."

"Obviously," Cole added before his voice took a stricter tone. "Next time you want to ease your curiosity, you should try asking."

"So if I asked you, you would have let me into your room even if it was for the sake of getting to know you better?" He asked with a raised eyebrow, his voice a mixture of sarcasm and teasing.

"Hell no!" Cole blurted out fiercely. He realized his mistake when the smirk on Kai's face widened. Again his pride was dented. "I see your point." He mumbled with as much dignity as he could muster.

"And you say I'm impulsive." Kai teased.

"You are." He countered, leaning closer to him. Since he was sitting at the table, their eyes were level with each other. "You're reckless, that's why you get into trouble and you never have the control to hold your tongue when the time calls for it, and you always put others or your pride before your own safety; there's a time and place when your own safety should be more important than defending your pride."

"Like in the woods, when that thing tried to kill you?" Kai asked as he raised an eyebrow in an accosting tone. "I don't care what happens to me if someone I care about is in danger! If I can help them I will!"

"You care about me?" Cole smirked and a blush painted Kai's face before he growled back.

"That's not the point!"

"I know what you meant." He chuckled as he shook his head with a small smile. "But I stand by what I told you before, if you keep focusing on everyone else's happiness and let your pride get the better of you, you'll never be happy." He said and the statement didn't anger Kai as much as it did the first time, but he still felt his irritation spike as a result. He opened his mouth to protest but Cole cut him off. "Everyone else who goes out of their way to try and make you happy will constantly worry about you because they know you'll always put everyone else before yourself." The hybrid said and any protest or angry words died in his throat.

He never looked at it that way before but it was as if the last piece of an extremely difficult puzzle had suddenly been put into place.

Nya had told him something similar before she and Lloyd had left. Everyone else in the palace had been sick with worry over him since he arrived, worse after his and Cole's fight. The teen put the medical supplies down and lowered his head.

"Why did you let me stay here?" He asked in a low voice, unsure if he wanted an answer.

"I don't understand." Cole blinked. Kai raised his head and glared at him.

"When I asked you to let me stay in Nya and Lloyd's place, why did you say yes? You said so yourself, I'm nothing but trouble?"

"I never said that." Cole corrected.

"That doesn't answer my question." Kai glared. Now it was Cole's turn to smile, a smile that curled at the corners.

"You really want to know why I let you stay here?" He asked and Kai nodded.

"Because you fascinated me the second I saw you." He replied and he raised his claws and spoke in a passionate, free-flowing voice as if he no longer had to keep something secret. Kai was clearly not expecting such an answer.

"What?"

"I'd never seen or met anyone like you; you found my castle all on your own, you were willing to sacrifice everything for your family and when you saw my true form for the first time, not only were you not afraid of me, you knew who I was! I didn't believe it when my staff called your arrival here a miracle, but everything about you astounded me." Cole paused for a moment, taking in the stunned expression on Kai's face. "Every time you saw me, you showed no fear and you refused to obey or respect me unless it was earned and you defy my every order; you countered every rule, regulation, or demand I made with one of your own and you had an answer for each one."

He paused for a moment and looked around the kitchen, not surprised to see the staff had left.

"You treat everyone in the castle-like people, where anyone else would've fled in terror, you let them pamper you even though you hate being waited on, you treat this place as if it were your home, and you put your own needs on hold for the sake of someone else." He sighed and Kai blinked again, but Cole was unsure if he was truly confused or if he disbelieved Cole meant what he was saying. "I agreed to keep you here for the reason that everything about you fascinates me from your beauty, intelligence, spirit, fiery temper, fierce independence, courage, heart... need I go on?" Cole smirked at the crimson blush spreading rapidly across Kai's face when he realized Cole was serious.

"I-I..."

"You're like a desert rose, Kai, something so unique and powerful that it can grow in the wildest of places." He smiled warmly. "You're like one giant puzzle and no matter how hard I try, I can't figure you out, but mark my words, I plan to." He promised. Kai just sat there for a moment, too stunned to speak. His mind was still trying to process what he was just told, completely ignoring the blush he knew was blazing across his face. When his mind finally put everything into perspective, he smiled a small smile and laughed.

"Funny, back home everyone but my siblings considered me everything from odd and peculiar to weird and bizarre for the way I am, and yet here, everyone seems to like me for that reason."

"Then those ignorant, backward fools need to get their asses out of the past and accept the end of aristocracy; I've been trapped in this castle for over a hundred years and I know full well things are much different." Cole laughed. Kai couldn't help but laugh in agreement. He flashed a small smile before turning back to the cloth soaked in yarrow medicine.

"Now hold still and let me finish cleaning this, it'll sting a bit." He warned before pressing the liquid-drenched cloth to the wound. Cole bit his lip, a hiss making his pain evident but he held still while the boy gently worked.

"Just a little longer, I promise." Kai comforted him, throwing away the dirty rag and grabbing another one. Once the wound was clean, he screwed the yarrow jar shut and took out a cotton-padded patch large enough to cover the entire wound. He grabbed one of the thick aloe leaves, cut it open, and squeezed the clear gelatin onto the patch before carefully spreading it all over. Cole watched patiently as he emptied the entire leaf until it curled.

Once that was done, Kai carefully lifted the patch from the bottom and pressed it to the wound.

Cole hissed, but this time, he only felt slight discomfort.

"Don't worry," Kai said, wiping off his hands. "It's aloe, it's more soothing than yarrow and it'll stop the itch and it's also a very powerful disinfectant." He explained, pressing his hand to the patch gently. "Now, I just need you to remove your coat so I can bandage it." He said and Cole shrugged the garment off his shoulders, revealing his entire upper body. Kai bit back a blush as the naked flesh was revealed to him. Kai quickly grabbed the bandages and carefully began wrapping them around Cole's waist.

"You're a good nurse," Cole commented, noticing how skilled the teen was.

"Thank you." He replied as he forced down another blush.

"Where'd you learn this, if you don't mind me asking?"

"My mom and dad taught me," Kai replied. "Our family was well known for their knowledge of herbs and since we traveled a lot when I was younger, we had to make sure we knew what to do in case one of us got hurt before we reached the next town or doctor, but most of the time, it was just me and Dad always teased me, saying that was why the yarrow stung; it was both a healer and a punishment for misbehaving."

"Sounds like the two of you were close."

"When I was little, he would always buy me the most beautiful and bizarre things wherever we went and he'd tell me stories about them." Kai smiled. "My favorites were always the ones about how our family descended from a powerful line of warriors from Japan."

"He sounds like a good man." Cole laughed. "My father was like that, he always told me our family was chosen by the legendary dragon to protect this kingdom from corruption and prejudice, and obviously, this castle's theme was modeled around that myth."

"I noticed," Kai replied as he tied the bandage tightly. Once he was finished, he frowned and turned away again. Cole looked concerned until he noticed another blush forming on the boy's cheeks. "Thank you, by the way." The teen finally spoke.

"Hmm?"

"Thank you, for saving me." He clarified. Now it was Cole's turn to blush, but he hid it by coughing in his hand.

"You're welcome, and thank you... for coming back." He added.

"I made a promise and I intend to keep it."

"Oh, is that all?" Cole replied, sounding a little disappointed.

"No, that's not all." Kai giggled a bit. "Honestly, I like it here; it's nice to be away from that town for a while and I'd feel bad if I left everyone without saying goodbye, and besides, I want to get to know you too." He added. Cole just smiled and gently ran his claws through Kai's hair before scooping him into his arms like a bride. The teenager yelped at the sudden movement.

"H-Hey! W-Wait a minute!" The teen protested.

"Don't think this means you're off the hook, you're still in big trouble for going in my room," Cole smirked and laughed. Kai snorted and crossed his arms. He hated being carried. The few staff members watching backed away as Cole flew through the hallway with his captive in his arms. The four creatures stood frozen, their eyes bulged and their mouths dropped in identical masks of shock.

"Um..." Jay mouthed, pointing to where the two men just were. "Did they just—"

"Uh-huh." Ronin nodded.

"And then they—" Tox continued.

"Yup." Echo finished. This was certainly an interesting turn of events...

The Flame and the Dragon Ch16

Chapter 16: The Fire Within

Kai's legs and body screamed at him to stop, or at least slowdown. His lungs felt like they exploded but Kai refused to stop. He thrashed and growled as claw-like branches scraped and tore at his silk shirt and pulled at his cloak. His boots sank into the ankle-deep carpet of mud and dead leaves, causing him to stumble several times. Nevertheless, he pressed onward, his heart hammered loudly in his chest from anxiety. He had no idea where the castle was anymore.

He was heavily panting as he blindly tried to navigate himself through the black woods, hoping for some sign, but none came.

A crash behind him caused him to whirl around. A loud snarl, the thunder of feet, and the crushing of branches echoed in the background with the force of a huge stampede. Kai's heart leaped into his throat at this. Pain and exhaustion forgotten, Kai bolted into a sprint running as fast as he could. Snarls and claws hammered behind him but he refused to look back as the hunter chased him. A stray root sticking out the ground caught his ankle, causing him to trip.

He crashed into the icy mud and leaves beneath him.

Spitting out leaves, he pushed himself to his knees and prepared to run again but froze when a huge shadow flew over him. It suddenly landed in front of him. He stumbled backward, paralyzed by fear. His mouth opened in a voiceless scream. Tremor wracked his body, paralyzing him as his eyes met the pupil-less, soulless, demonic eyes of a monster. Its enormous, muscular body was covered in tight, pitch-black skin. Enormous razor-sharp talons protruded from its paws and a long, thin tail tipped with a spike curled and cracked like a whip.

Its head was fat but its nose and jaw were slender like those of an alligator's head.

A black, forked tongue licked its lips as it stepped towards Kai. Opening its jaws and flexing its claws in preparation for devouring the boy in front of him, it sprang. Kai closed his eyes and waited for death. Instead of death, however, another shadow swooped in front of him. A loud bellow like the roar of a dragon echoed through the clearing, followed by a loud thud as the source of the sound landed with force. Kai opened his eyes to see large wings unfurled to protect him as the figure stood to his full height.

Kai's eyes widened as he now stood behind none other than the Dragon Lord.

Cole didn't answer him as he released a harsh punch straight into the side of the monster's head. It sent it crashing into the trunk of a tree. Kai stood frozen, too overcome by shock to move or speak.

"Don't just stand there, you idiot!" Cole commanded and a harsh tug on his arm brought the boy back to reality and he jumped to his feet.

"What is that thing?" Kai demanded as the creature recovered from the blow and shook its head, snarling at the pair with rage. Cole cursed and wrapped an arm around Kai's waist and pulled him against him. Before Kai could protest, a scream tore from his throat as he was hurled into the air by a giant gust of wind. Cole flexed his wings and with a mighty leap, they burst into the air, barely missing as the beast pounced again. Terrified and confused, Kai's arms flayed until his hands clenched the front of Cole's jacket and he buried his face in the man's coat from shock.

Beneath them, the beast snarled opening and snapping its monstrous jaw and sending sticky, thick salvia everywhere.

"Cole, what is that thing?" Kai demanded as the Dragon Lord landed on the branch of a tree. He screamed when the beast started clawing against the trunk of the tree, attempting to climb it, but Cole was faster and slapped it in the side with a swing from his powerful tail. The beast crashed to the ground, howling furiously in its rage, and began clawing once more. Cole snarled as his eyes flashed with determination as he released Kai's legs and pulled him close to his body.

Kai gasped at the protective, and slightly possessive, look in the man's eye.

Orange sparks danced between the Dragon Lord's claws before a blast of bright orange energy struck the beast in the chest. It howled and screamed in pain, fury burning in its soulless eyes. It pounced ferociously and sank its claws into the bark of the tree before racing towards its prey with inhuman speed. Cole flew into the air just as the beast pounced, the swipe of its claws barely missing them. Cole landed on another tree and carefully placed Kai on a thick branch, a good distance from the beast.

"Stay here!" He ordered, turning to glare at the beast with cold eyes.

"Wait! You're not-"

"Please, for once in your life, do what I tell you!" Cole warned with an almost desperate plea before his eyes returned to the beast. All concern melted away and his hard, stoic expression returned as he elegantly leaped from the tree and landed in a crouch position, his wings expanding to their full length. Once the beast saw him, it bent low to the ground and crawled towards Cole like a shark circling its prey. Cole matched it with an arrogant smirk on his face.

"Come on." He tempted the beast. "Are you the best that bastard can do?" He mocked the monster, which snarled and snapped its disgusting fangs, trying to look threatening. Blinded by its anger, the monster lunged at the Dragon Lord. Cole dodged easily and kicked the monster hard in the gut. It recovered as it was falling and pounced with its maw open but Cole grabbed its snout and lower jaw and yanked them apart. The monster exploded with rage, struggling in vain to free itself but Cole snapped its mouth shut, struggling to lift it before slamming it against the ground.

The beast squealed and rolled over, barely missing as Cole slammed his foot into the frosty ground where the monster once lay.

The battle raged on and Kai watched in amazement. For the first time since he was trapped in the tower, Kai saw the real Dragon Lord. Moonlight poured through the trees, making lights dance across Cole's form. The powerful wings flapped and moved perfectly in sync with his body, either to shield him from harm or to let him swiftly dodge the monster's strikes. His arms and legs were brawny and muscular and, covered by almost impenetrable scales, each limb moving together in swift, lethal motions.

His claws were always poised to attack while his feet were quick and positioned to either dodge or strike.

His body moved with all the strength and power of a dragon but the adaptability and flexibility of a human. The Dragon Lord was the perfect fighter. Kai's eyes widened, enthralled even more by the sight before him. He was sucked in by the brutal but beautiful display of power the Dragon Lord presented. Just as the Dragon Lord's victory seemed assured, the beast suddenly pounced again. This time, however, it landed in front of its assailant, dodging Cole's punch and leaving his un-scaled sides open.

The beast leaped forward and sank its teeth into exposed Cole's side.

Kai screamed louder than he ever had in his life. A sound between a human cry and a dragon's roar of pain ripped from Cole's mouth. Blood and pain exploded from his side as he slashed the beast across the snout, causing the monster to release its hold as part of its mouth were ripped off. It wailed feebly and backed away to nurse its wound. Cole fell back against a tree and his hand flew to cover his side. His black hand was red as rubies as blood dripped from his hands and speckling the frosty ground.

He hissed in pain and turned to Kai, who was hastily trying to free himself from the tree.

"Kai, get out of here now!" He called to the boy, the pain in his eyes evident, as he gestured north with his other hand. "The castle is that way! I'll distract him as long as I can, but you'll be able to make it from here."

"But what about—"

"Go! Now!" He bellowed as loud as he could. That was his only warning before he took to the air as the beast lunged at him, invigorated by the smell of blood. Cole bit back a scream as his side tore during the flight. The beast took advantage of this and pounced, swatting the man out of the air. Overcome by shock, Cole crashed to the ground and didn't bother stopping the scream that escaped him.

"Get away from him, you monster!" Kai yelled as the beast stalked towards its weakened prey. Confused, it turned its head only to find its previous prey standing at the base of the tree, shaking in rage. Cole growled and opened his mouth to yell at the boy to run, but no sound came out. "You want me? Come and get me!" Kai taunted as his eyes blazed with fire. The beast growled and charged. Kai didn't move. Instead, he backed up until his back was pressed against the trunk of a tree.

He jumped and grabbed a thick but low branched with both hands and, with haste, pulled himself onto it, just as the beast crashed headfirst into the base of the tree.

It howled as it thrashed its head wildly, showering blood everywhere from its injured nose. Taking advantage, Kai lowered his body on the branch. With the skill of a gymnast, swung his body back and forth until he swung himself full circle and launched his body forward. His feet collided with the beast's side, sending it crashing through branches as it fell to the ground. He finished by releasing his grip on the branch and landing in a perfect crouched position.

"What the hell?" Cole gasped as his eyes wide with disbelief.

"What?" Kai asked, panting. "You thought you were the only one who knew how to fight?" He asked but the teen didn't wait for a response and knelt to inspect Cole's wound.

"Look out!" Cole shouted, jumping to his feet and pouncing on Kai just as the beast lunged at them again. It sailed over them before orienting itself and sliding across the dirt, blood, and saliva dripping from its fangs.

"Damnit! This thing doesn't know when to quit!" Kai cursed as he moved to grab Cole but the man grabbed him first and forced him to meet his eyes.

"That thing is after you."

"Me? Why?"

"Not now!" He shouted as he pulled Kai behind him and bit back a loud grunt when he put weight on his bleeding side. "Just go!" He ordered and started to walk towards the beast, but Kai didn't move. His eyes darted from the barely standing Dragon Lord to the beast who, despite the damage it took, looked fresh and ready to fight. Cole saved him when that monstrous thing attacked him. Despite Kai breaking into his room, almost ruining his candle, he still came to help him.

Now, he was willing to sacrifice himself to protect him.

What about everyone at the castle who needed Cole's protection? They would be devastated if he died because Kai ran away. His fists clenched at his sides. His nails sank into his palms and his face grew red with rage.

"Cole, get behind me." He spoke in a dangerously low voice. Cole opened his mouth to protest but was silenced by the sharp look in Kai's amber eyes. Kai turned to the beast with a blank expression. He glared at the beast with hatred, wanting to blame it for all his pain. The beast's jaw formed a twisted smile before it charged towards its prey, ready to rip the boy limb from limb. Kai didn't move. His determination to protect the one who saved him and his anger at both the creature that hurt Cole and his own stupidity burned in his eyes like fire.

Heat pooled in his hands, sparks forming between his fingers and crackling to life.

As the beast closed in, he turned to meet its eyes. All his anger, determination, protection, and emotions spiraled together. Without any hesitation or training, he raised his flaming hands in the air and dropped to his knees, sinking his hands into the dirt. Bright red and gold flames burst from his hands. The beast roared in shock and anguish as tongs of fire consumed its entire body. Its skin burned from its bones as it howled and wailed with an excruciating, inhuman cry of death.

Fire danced in Kai's eyes until only a smoldering pile of ashes remained.

When he rose to his feet and the burning dissipated from his palms, his senses returned to him. He shook his head and looked quizzically at his hands, then back to the Dragon Lord, who doubled over in pain, clenching his side. Forgetting his internal questions, Kai dashed to his side and hooked Cole's arm over his shoulder before helping him lean back and rest against a tree.

"Hold still." He ordered once Cole sat down and swiftly removed his cloak. "You'll tear it open."

"Don't fuss," Cole said but Kai had already removed his cloak and ripped it into long strips. Cole hissed when Kai started to tear open his coat and began to lift his shirt. The dragon hybrid tried to move but Kai held him in place.

"Will you stay still?! I'm trying to get to the wound!" He explained and shuddered when he saw just how bad the bite was. "Damn, it doesn't look deep but I'll still need to disinfect it when we get back to the castle, I hope you've got yarrow tincture or something."

"It doesn't matter, it'll heal on its own, now let—"

"Not a chance in hell!" Kai protested harshly, pressing a clean piece of fabric to the wound. Cole yowled at the pressure but held still as Kai tied the rest of the long strips around his hip and side, forming a make-shift bandage. "There, that should hold it until we get back to the castle." He said and the second he finished, Kai hooked Cole's arm around his shoulder and used the other to help him to his feet.

"Can you still walk?"

"I said I'm fine!" Cole snapped and removed his arm, but the second he put pressure on his side he hissed and slouched over, Kai quick to catch him.

"If this is fine, I hope I never see your idea of dying." The teen said sarcastically and he allowed Cole to slouch half of his body weight on him. "I'm stronger than I look." He added but Cole said nothing. His pride having already been wounded, he allowed the boy to help him home...

Past Lives Chapter 3

The first thing I realized when I came back to my senses was that I can't see. I could hear all kinds of noises around me, but the loudest sound was faint, high-pitched meowing that sounded like it was right next to me. I must be near lots of cats. I could also that feel my body was different. It felt like my arms were replaced with legs and at first, I thought I was naked until a realized my body felt really hairy. I quickly remembered what the First Spinjitzu Master said about how I might not be human.

So I must be some kind of newborn baby animal.

Before I could try and open my eyes something around my size suddenly shoved into me, knocking me onto my side. I tried to roll over, but something soft and wiggly was blocking my way and my four legs didn't feel strong enough to push whatever was in my way out of the way. It didn't help that I could open my eyes to see anything around me. I could feel movement all around me, but, as much as I hate to admit it, I was still scared and confused.

Just as I was about to go into a full-on panic mood, I felt something weird on my head and down my back.

It felt like a sandpaper brush running down my back. Instead of feeling weird, it felt comforting and relaxing. I recognized that this was a tongue of a mother cat and I was surrounded by a litter of kittens. A large one by the sound of it. I almost gasped when I realized she was a full-grown cat and I must have been her kitten. Well... this is awkward. She must be my new mother now, but how the fuck am I gonna explain to her that I used to be human and was reborn as one of her babies?

The next thing I knew, the mother cat's chin was rested gently atop my head.

After a brief moment, a soothing purr that thundered comfortingly in my ears reverberated through my very being. Some part of me, deep down, knew exactly what she was doing to me. She was doing the same exact thing that she would do as if I were a scared baby that was in need of comfort from my mother. Technically, that's exactly what I was, but I couldn't bring myself to care about that. For once, I accepted the fact that I desperately needed this.

All of a sudden I felt somebody pick me up and away from the cramped, comforting warmth from the litter and my momma cat.

I could feel that it was a human holding me, and they either had really big hands or I was really tiny because I could literally fit in their hand. Now I was panicking. I tried calling for my momma cat, but I couldn't hear her doing anything to stop the human holding me. My cries for help sounded exactly like little kitten meows and it was so frustrating to deal with. I was suddenly wrapped up into something soft and tight that was warm and comforting, but I wanted to go back to the little.

Wait, why am I saying that?

"How old is he again?" The person holding me asked. Who was that? Where am I? I don't recognize who the voice belonged to.

"Three weeks." Another man replied.

"That long?! He looks like about a day old!" A third man burst out. All the commotion was really stressing me out and with a final attempt, my eyes finally cracked open and I looked up to a man with black hair looking down at me.

"Aw! He's finally opened his eyes!" The black-haired man squealed in delight. I couldn't stop myself from letting out small whimpers as if I was going to cry. I saw three different men around me. Who was this man that was holding me? I didn't like it and the shouting was scaring me. I started squirming around in the man's hand and tried to scratch at the man's hand with my tiny claws, but the soft and tight thing made it almost impossible.

"Here give him to me." The second voice said when he saw how agitated I was becoming.

"Here." The one holding me said instantly. Whoever was holding me now belonged to a person who sounded caring and kind. Who was he? He held on to me as he gently uncurled the tight blanket and patted carefully, barely a flutter, tapped on my back, three soft beats at a time.

"Shhh... Shhh... It's alright, it's alright." He soothed as I felt three soft taps on my back. Who was this? I looked up to see who was this new person. Even though I didn't know who this was, I knew this man would never hurt me. I trusted him. The small beats on me made me feel safer. I liked it.

"Wow, he really likes you." The third man hummed. I turned my head to see the other men and felt fear again. Who were they? Would they hurt me?

"It's okay, these men won't hurt you." The second man hushed and I turned my head back to the one with kindness in his voice and buries myself deeper in something soft and warm.

"I've been gone for a few seconds and someone disturbs them? I thought I said she needs peace and calm to take care of her litter?" A new voice, a female voice, was heard and it sounded angry. Was she mad at me?

"It's okay Bella, he's fine now." The man holding him said, still patting me. I hated this, I didn't know who these people were, and were they talking about me?

"What's with the bottle?" The first man asked.

"Audrey doesn't have enough nipples to feed them all, so I'm gonna have to hand-rear a couple of them." The woman, Bella, explained. "I added the minerals the vets gave us in the formula, this should fill him up." She said, sounding happy now. Slowly moving my head to the new find the sound, I forgot my fear and frustration about the men. As soon as I saw her, I knew she would never hurt me either. She carried something in her arms and gave it to the man holding me.

I don't know how, but I knew that whenever someone had that thing they would give it to me to drink, and it was always tasty.

I wanted that thing with the tasty in it but the warm and soft thing held me in place. It was a blanket. I watched every movement of the thing in the man's hand, eager to taste my tasty. The man held me in one hand and placed the thing in my eager mouth. Yes, it was good! I wanted more! Moving out of my blanket, I started chugging my tasty and barely noticed my right front leg moving on instincts as I drank the delicious formula.

"Woah, slowly, little one." Said the man with a light chuckle and pulled the thing away from me. I felt something fall through me and the man placed the thing back in my mouth. It was so good, what was this stuff? Was it called tasty? Yes, I would call it tasty.

"Awww, he must have been hungry." Someone said but I ignored him and continued to have my tasty. I felt my eyes fall down but I wanted more.

"Awww, is the little kitten tired again?" Bella said, rubbing her fingers on the back of my head.

"There we go, all done." The man suddenly said and my thing was released from my mouth. I was too tired to suck more of my tasty and huddled closer to the man holding me. Something wiped my mouth and I felt the man place me on his chest and I felt something patting my back. I groaned in discomfort before a small burp cleared my belly.

"There we go, all better now." Bella soothed softly.

"Go back sleep little one." The man said as he placed me back with the litter. My littermates hugged me close and I felt my momma cat giving me a couple of licks before moving on to her other fussy kittens. I was tired again, yawning before I curled tight in the group of fluffy bodies as I drifted to sleep...