The night was quiet.
Too quiet.
Kai walked alone, his mind still replaying what had just happened.
That was close…
He clenched his fist.
I showed too much.
Behind him—
Footsteps.
"…You're really something."
Kai stopped.
"…You again."
Axel stepped out of the shadows, lightning flickering softly around him.
But this time—
There was no arrogance.
Only curiosity.
And something else.
Excitement.
"I knew you were hiding something," Axel said.
Kai didn't turn around.
"And now you know."
Silence.
Then Kai spoke again.
"So what now?"
Axel walked closer.
"I should expose you."
Kai's eyes darkened slightly.
"Try it."
A small smile appeared on Axel's face.
"But…"
He stopped right next to Kai.
"I won't."
Kai finally turned.
"…Why?"
Axel's eyes locked onto his.
"Because you're the first person who can actually challenge me."
A pause.
"Maybe even defeat me."
The air felt heavier.
Kai stared at him.
"…You're insane."
Axel laughed quietly.
"Maybe."
Then his expression became serious.
"From now on… your secret is safe with me."
Kai narrowed his eyes.
"I don't trust you."
"You don't have to."
Axel turned and started walking away.
"But understand this…"
He stopped briefly.
"If anyone else finds out…"
Lightning crackled around him.
"…I'll deal with them first."
Kai watched him leave.
Conflicted.
Why is he helping me?
What does he really want?
Far away—
On top of a building—
Zara stood silently.
Watching.
She didn't see everything.
But she saw enough.
Kai.
Axel.
Alone.
At night.
Her eyes narrowed.
"…What are you hiding, Kai?"
Back on the street, Kai sighed.
"…This is getting worse."
Because now—
The most dangerous person in Nova High…
Was interested in him.
Not as an enemy.
But as something far more unpredictable.
An equal.