Kai was still reeling from the first creepy run-in when he got this weird feeling that things were about to get worse. His heart hammered against his ribs, and his neck hair stood up. The shadowy dude hadn't moved an inch. Still glowing, like some cheesy ghost, those eyes locked on him.
His mind went crazy. Run! But his legs felt glued in place. It wasn't just fear; the air felt heavy, like breathing through soup. His Twin Spirits were getting antsy inside, wanting to throw down, but he felt lost. He knew so little, and the more he thought, the worse he felt. What did this stranger want?
Who... are you? Kai asked, his voice shaky but louder now.
The dude didn't move, but the air practically buzzed with some kind of weird power. Kai felt pressure building, almost like he was getting pushed back by something invisible.
Finally, the dude spoke. You're the one we've been looking for. You and your spirits.
Kai's chest tightened. My... spirits? What's that supposed to mean?
The figure took a step. You have what we need. Power to turn everything upside down. You're coming with us.
No way! Kai snapped, stepping back without thinking. I have no idea who you are, but I'm not going anywhere with you.
The dude didn't seem shocked. More like he was waiting for it. You can't dodge destiny. It's got your name on it.
Destiny? Kai's head was spinning. This was insane. He wanted no part of this. No prophecies, nothing. He just wanted to live his life without everyone freaking out at him.
Not interested, he mumbled, trying to step back, but his feet were stuck. The ground wouldn't let him move.
You don't have a choice, Kai Lin, the dude said, voice dark. You will come with us, like it or not.
Kai's heart went wild with panic. Gotta get out! But before he could think about running, the dude raised a hand, and the air around Kai froze. His whole body locked up; couldn't move a thing.
What the—? Kai gasped, trying to fight it, but it was like his body wasn't his. Paralyzed. The only thing he could do was stare at this glowing freak.
You're too important to leave here, the dude said, smug. You'll be a great weapon later.
Kai's mind spun. This couldn't happen. His spirits—Silver Wyrm and Titanic Hammer—were still with him, but how could they do a thing? He was trapped.
He just needed some focus and tried to reach them, but something blocked him. They were there, but their power felt far away, cut off by something.
The dude stepped closer, and Kai felt him getting stronger. Like a weight on his chest. Shortness of breath.
I'll give you one shot, the dude said, voice frosty. Come nicely, or we'll drag you. Either way, you are coming with us.
Kai didn't know what now. Was this it? About to get snatched by some random freak? His world was spinning. He couldn't think straight. Weight, pulling him down.
This is the end.
He closed his eyes, giving up, ready for whatever was gonna come. But then, something inside snapped.
His spirits! They were there, finally fighting back. Bursting out of their cage. The Silver Wyrm hissed, energy crackling all around. The Titanic Hammer rumbled, the earth shaking under him.
Kai gasped, jerking as the paralysis broke.
You—you can't stop me! he yelled, his voice stronger now.
The dude looked surprised for the first time, eyes narrowed. But he didn't give up. You can't win, kid. Too weak.
Kai didn't hear him. His spirit burst free, and a power so strong filled him. The Silver Wyrm rushed through him, icy power flooding him. The Titanic Hammer rumbled, its energy too much to take. Together, they fought back, and Kai's body started moving again.
You're wrong, he said, voice firm. I'm not weak.
With a burst, Kai broke free. Pressure gone, he fell to his knees, gasping. His body was heavy, but he could move.
The dude, now annoyed, stepped back. This isn't done, Kai Lin. We'll be back. And next time, you won't be so lucky.
Before Kai could say a word, the dude turned and vanished into the fog, only the quiet, freaky forest silence.
Kai stayed on the ground, catching his breath. Heart pounding, mind racing. What happened? Who were they? And why him?
Finally, he stood up, dizzy. He looked around, but the dude was gone. The fog had taken everything. He couldn't see a thing.
What the hell was that? Kai mumbled, shaken. He didn't get it. Just that something big was up, and his Twin Spirits had something to do with it.
Then, he heard a voice from far away.
Kai! Kai, where are you? What happened?!
Kai turned to see Sera running toward him, worried.
I'm fine, Kai said, even if he didn't think so. You wouldn't believe what went down.
Sera stopped in front of him, eyes wide. Try me.
Kai didn't know where to start. But he had to talk. I... I think someone's after me.
Sera raised an eyebrow. Someone's after you? Seriously?
Kai said, nodding. I'm not kidding, Sera. This glowing freak said they were looking for me. Wanted me to come. Even controlled me!
Sera frowned. That's messed up. All right?
Kai nodded. I think I'm okay. But now what? Whoever they are, they're scary strong.
Sera bit her lip, then looked at Kai. We gotta get out. You can't stay in Mistvale. Not with that. I'm leaving for Azure Spirit Academy tomorrow, and you need to come. This isn't a coincidence.
Kai looked at her and felt torn. He didn't know what now. But one thing? His life was changing, and he wasn't ready.
I'll think, Kai said quietly. But I need answers first. I've gotta know what's happening.
Sera didn't look convinced. I hope you figure it out. Whatever you do, I'll be at the edge of town tomorrow. Don't be late, okay?
She turned and left, leaving Kai alone.
As the fog rolled in, Kai knew he was different. Something had gone down. Something he couldn't ignore. And he had a sinking feeling.
To be continued...