Yu Yu Hakusho Fan Fiction ❯ If Anyone Falls ❯ Confrontation ( Chapter 28 )

[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]

Chapter 28- Confrontation

October 31, 1993 Reikai

Koenma hung on tightly to the oar as Ayame flew through the sunlit sky, trying to calm the pounding of his heart. The raid on Spirit World Jail had been successful in freeing his mother but knowing she was safe did little to ease his worry. My father will not relent his throne easily and I have no doubt that the SDF will be waiting for us when we arrive at the Gate of Judgment.

“What is wrong, my son,” Kasumi murmured from behind the brown haired man. “I can almost hear your brow furrowing.”

The spirit prince kept his gaze ahead as he answered. “Father has done many wicked things and he should be made to pay for his crimes, but I am... concerned that words will not be enough to remove him from his seat of power.”

“Ah... you believe he won't relent from his position without hard and decisive evidence is that it?”

“Yes,” He admitted as he lowered his head. “If things get bad at home... if father is somehow able to escape... or twist things around in his favor, I fear for the lives and safety of everyone involved.”

“It is natural for a leader to worry over his men,” Kasumi replied, her focusing shifting left, curious purple orbs studying the form of the kitsune. “Your detective is strong enough to keep everyone physically safe from Enma's forces,” Her gaze moved, now falling on the determined features of Botan. “And your cousin seems ready to force your father to confess his crimes and step down. So draw strength from them and within your own heart and conviction.”

Koenma blinked at the mention of cousin, turning his head to look over at his head ferry girl. “I cannot believe I was unable to recognize Botan when she was brought to me.”

“Nor would you have been able to recognize her, my son,” The Reikai female said softly. “Mizuki never came to the Southern Palace to visit and her daughter was only four years old when Satoru was killed, so you wouldn't know who she was or what she looked like,” She paused, features shifting into a bitter look to match the tone of voice. “And your father was very controlling... I was not allowed to travel north to see my sister. In fact the SDF made sure I remained at the palace, far from family and friends.”

Koenma frowned. “I remember that,” He murmured, shoulders dropping as guilt crept into his mind and his heart. “I'm sorry I wasn't... more observant... of you... of Botan... of everything...”

Kasumi turned her head back towards her son. “Do not blame yourself for this, Koenma. Your father and your father alone is responsible for everything that's occurred in the past 100 years. Enma will be made to pay for his crimes.”

There was a heated anger that made Koenma even more nervous for the safety of everyone... especially Kasumi. I just found you mother... I don't want to lose you... especially over this. “Yes, I know. But he is still my father and I want to try to reason with before resorting to any kind of violence.”

“I'm afraid it may too late for that.”

“What do you mean?”

Kasumi's features grew grim. “By now, Reikai jail will be aware of my absence from my cell. Those that guarded the prison will alert the SDF. They will respond by informing Enma who will in turn order a search for my whereabouts. When we arrive at the Gate of Judgment, the SDF will come to that bastard's aid, trying to protect him from the threat knocking at his door.”

Her words confirmed the worry still lingering in his mind. “I suspected that would be the case the moment we left the prison,” Koenma paused, his tone and expression turning dark. “Which means we will be riding right into a trap.”

“Yes, we will,” His mother confirmed. “So do you have a plan to bypass the SDF to get to Enma?”

The spirit prince turned his gaze over to the kitsune. “No... but if anyone can come up with a plan, it's Kurama.”

The Queen of the South followed the prince's gaze, her eyes appraising the redhead as she asked, “He's a youkai, is he not?”

“Yes... most of my detective team is,” He turned his attention back to his mother. “Why do you ask.”

“Merely curious,” Kasumi answered. “The power I sense from him is stronger than any of those lapdogs that work for your father. Are all your detectives this strong?”

“They are,” Koenma replied with a nod. “But they were... disbanded after a recent incident involving a former Reikai detective... and Makai is on the brink of war... Kurama agreed to help me out of his love for Botan and his desire for her to know the truth of her family and loved ones.”

“Tell me, son, just how close is your cousin to your detective?”

Koenma's features morphed into a look of surprise and he focused his attention over at the peony and the fox, blushing a bit as he understood his mother's connotation. “Um... well... you see... it's a bit... complicated...”

Kasumi quirked an eyebrow at her son's stammering. He's embarrassed for them or of them? She wondered. “Relationships between men and women usually are, my son,” She quipped. “And if what you're implying is true, then it is a highly unusual match given the hatred between the two races.”

“But... has it happened before, mother?” Koenma asked. “A union between a youkai and a reigen?”

“Not to my knowledge,” Kasumi replied, a grim expression on her face. “And the king and queen of the North will not approve of the match to say the least.”

“Because they come from different worlds?” Koenma asked, a defensive tone on his voice. “I would think love transcends worlds, mother. Botan loves Kurama with all her heart and her soul. Kurama would die for Botan... would take on anything and anyone to keep her safe... he loves her that much. Why should they not remain together?”

“It is because they come from different worlds that will make it difficult for Botan to remain with your detective,” Kasumi said softly. “After what happened to Satoru, her grandparents will not allow her to remain with a demon.”

Koenma looked over at his head ferry girl. Botan had always been bright and cheerful, even when times were at their darkest. But now that she had Kurama in her life, she'd blossomed into a truly joyful person... her laugh sincere and infectious.. she nearly always smiled now... smiled because she was genuinely happy... smiled because she was loved by a man who loved her without condition or demands. And because she is of royal blood, her family will seek to break that bond and marry her off to some pompous duke or lord from the North. “I don't think Botan will let them do that to her.” He murmured.

“She will have no choice in the matter,” Kasumi replied. “Those of royal blood do not get to choose their life partner.”

“You mean to tell me they do arranged marriages in the North in this day and age?”

The lady studied her son with mild surprise. “You think I married your father by choice?”

Koenma's brow furrowed. “But... it's not... it's not fair or right to do that to someone... especially Botan... not after what she's been through.”

“I do not know all of what she's gone through, my son,” Kasumi began. “But when this is all over, we will all sit down and talk about things. Perhaps there is some way we can convince the king and queen of the North to let Botan do as she pleases.” Though I won't hold my breath on succeeding. The lady thought silently, studying her niece with concerned eyes, wondering how to tell the girl the truth of her inheritance and her family.

Botan, for her part, kept pace with Ayame as the two ferry girls traveled at a steady clip towards the Gate of Judgment. The trip from the Western Quadrant to the Southern one had gone smoothly but the ferry girl felt a sense of anxiety the closer they came to their destination. What would happen when they finally confronted Enma? Would he step down willfully? Or would things grow violent? What if Kurama had to fight? What if he... killed the king of the Southern Quadrant or was killed in the attempt? No... Kurama is stronger than all of the SDF and even Enma himself... he won't lose... and he won't die...

“What is troubling you, love?” Kurama asked, sensing the deity's nervousness.

“Oh, it's nothing, honest...” Botan said in a lighthearted tone to mask the trouble in her heart and her mind. “Just wondering how much longer it will take before we reach the palace.”

The kitsune, however, knew his lover well and could not be fooled by her tone of voice. “I know you're afraid of what will happen to all of us, peony,” Kurama whispered. “And I promise you that no matter what occurs when we confront Enma, I will not let anyone be hurt. Especially you, koibito.”

Botan blushed at the term of endearment, still affected by such a simple word and the way he spoke to her. “It isn't that I... doubt your strength to protect everyone, Kurama... it's just that... I don't know what kind of danger we will face once we get to the palace. The SDF will not let us enter without putting up a fight. And I worry that if you... if you have to kill someone... they will take you away from me.”

“No one will take me away from you, Botan,” Kurama replied. “No one will die this day, on either side.”

“But how can you guarantee that, Kurama?” She asked. “There are so many things that could go wrong I don't even know where to start.”

The kitsune smiled, responding in a reassuring tone. “Trust me, Botan, I've gone over all the variables and have a plan to counter each problem that might occur. You just have to trust me, okay?”

Worry still plagued her but she knew her beloved's mind was second to none. “I trust you, koishii...”

Kurama loved when the deity responded with a term of endearment, his gaze shifting away from her as they cleared the mountain range that bordered the palace, the Gate of Judgment now in sight. “Be careful on your approach, Botan. If the SDF are indeed waiting for us, they may try to shoot us out of the sky.”

Botan nodded, slowing her oar, motioning over to Ayame who nodded and pulled back, ascending higher into the air, both girls gasping as a volley of blue orbs suddenly rocketed towards them. “Hold on!” The deity shouted, Ayame following suit as the two ferry girls veered off in opposite directions.

Kurama tracked the energy projectiles as they whizzed past then turned back to the deity. “Take us closer in, Botan.”

The ferry girl yanked the oar hard to the left, gritting her teeth as another round of ki orbs shot towards then over them. “If I do that, we'll be hit!”

“You can do it, koishii,” Kurama replied, nonplussed by the fear and worry in her voice. “I've seen you fly before and I know you won't let us be struck down.”

“Your confidence in my skill not withstanding, I don't think I can do it, Kurama, it's too dangerous!”

Kurama reached out, laying his hands over the ferry girl's, voice soft and encouraging. “Then I will help you, love.”

Botan tossed a look over her shoulder at him, drawing strength in the faith he held for her and the ferry girl drew her her focus in front. “Everybody hold on tight!” Tilting the oar down, the girl fed power through the oar, increasing her speed, rocketing at a slight angle, too far away to hear the cry of concern from Koenma, dodging left then right, curving up and around in a corkscrew, maneuvering out of the reach of the spheres of Reikai energy as she zoomed back down, nearing the ground near the gate entrance, spying several SDF members standing guard, arms lifted to shoot another volley in an attempt to knock them out of the sky.

But Kurama would have none of that. “Botan, when I let go I want you to fly as high and as fast as you can, can you do that for me?”

“Let go?! If you jump off, you'll die!”

“It will take more than falling to kill me, peony. Just make sure to pull back and wait until I've taken care of our attackers.”

She felt his hands lift off of hers and she tried to grab hold of them, to keep him with her but the kitsune rolled to the side, sliding off the oar as the deity was forced to make a sharp turn. “Kurama!” She screamed, watching helplessly at the sight of her beloved falling through the air, fear replaced by surprise as a pair of leaf like wings sprouted around the red head's back, slowing his descent. What in the world is that?

Kurama lifted his left hand as he floated down, enacting a energy barrier, the ki spheres harmlessly slamming into the invisible field and the kitsune smirked, coming to land on the bare ground before the gate. His floating leaf wings retracting, falling to the ground as a small seed. Reaching behind his back with his free hand, the redhead drew out three new seeds and crouched down, slamming his palm into the rocky field, barrier still intact as the SDF continued their energy assault. And now to end this. He thought, emerald eyes watching with mild amusement at the panicked and surprised cries of the Reikai soldiers when vines suddenly burst up out of the flat ground to bind around their ankles and wrists.

The kitsune deactivated the shield, making a motion with his hand, the vines reacting to his silent command, yanking the now helpless SDF members violently down to the ground. A strange purple glow erupted along the length of the plant material and Kurama watched as the soldiers grew still and silent. Now you know what it feels like to be drained of your energy. He commented inwardly before shifting his gaze up into the sky and lifted his hand, giving them an okay signal to let them know it was safe.

Botan watched from up high, fear giving way to relief as Kurama landed unscathed and in complete control of the situation, the SDF swiftly out of commission without bloodshed or loss of life. Shifting her flight path, the ferry girl slowly descended, heading towards the kitsune's location, coming to land a short distance to her beloved's right. Otake slid off, Botan following, and she dematerialized the oar then lifted her head up, watching as Ayame guided her oar down to land.

Koenma, Kasumi, and Ayame slid off and joined the rest of the group, each person taking in the field of unconscious SDF soldiers with various shades of surprise and curiosity.

“You took them out so easily and without killing a single one,” Kasumi murmured, looking away from the SDF to the kitsune. “My son was right to choose you as a detective.”

Kurama gave a slight nod in acknowledgment of her praise, turning his head to study Koenma as he spoke,

“We should keep moving.”

“Agreed.” Kurama replied, pivoting away from the group, leading them over to the gate entrance, coming to a stop as he studied the massive and solid door.

“What now?” Botan asked, moving to stand to the kitsune's left. “The SDF outside is incapacitated... but there has to be more of them waiting inside to stop us from reaching Enma.”

“There are,” Otake confirmed, drawing everyone's attention to him. “Defending the palace was one of the many drills the SDF practiced on a regular basis. The ones Kurama drained of energy are only the front line, the weakest of Reikai soldiers. The stronger warriors will be with Enma himself... while the second and third lines await us beyond this gate. It will take a lot of ki to repeat your earlier performance Kurama,” the former captain of the SDF said, his brown eyes studying the red head. “Do you have the power to take them all out without bloodshed?”

Kurama studied the door intently, sensing the enemy gathering into the courtyard as an idea came to him. “Tell me, Otake, did your drills account for any biological or airborne attacks?”

The mustached man's brow furrowed. “No. Our drills were strictly in case of a physical assault on the palace. Why? Are you thinking of replicating what you did at the prison?”

“Yes,” Kurama said softly as he drew out a rose, feeding it power, turning it into a whip. “Wait here. I will be right back.”

“Kurama!” Botan cried as she watched him use his whip to climb up and over the side of the gate, disappearing from view. She hated when he took off, her mind at war with her heart. I know he's stronger than anyone here... but still.... I worry...

The red head vaulted over the side wall, landing in-between a startled group of SDF soldiers. The men skidded to a stop, their attention drawn away from the door to face the new threat that descended upon them.

“Grab the youkai! Bring him down!” The leader of the group shouted, blue eyes glaring at Kurama as the soldiers rushed him, trying to use physical force to neutralize the kitsune.

Fools. He thought with an inward sigh, bringing his arms up, smoke spewing out from the sleeves of his black button down shirt, watching as the swirling mass of gray enveloped the entire area.

“What's going on?! I can't see anything!” Many of the soldiers shouted, confused and dazed as they tried to navigate through the visual minefield.

Unaffected and immune to the smoke, Kurama moved from target to target, knocking out each SDF member with a quick blow to the back of the head until at last the deed was done and the smoke dissipated. Strolling over to the gate, Kurama pushed the button to his right, the doors swinging slowly open, revealing the surprised eyes of his team. “Shall we go?”

Koenma nodded, quickly recovering from the shock of just how quick and efficient Kurama could be as he started forward, weaving around the pile of unconscious soldiers as he led the up the steps and into the entryway of the palace.

“How far are we from Enma's throne room?” Kurama asked as he walked beside Botan, eyes and ears alert for any sign of incoming attack.

“We have several halls to go before we reach father's personal quarters and throne,” Koenma answered, eyes focused ahead as he continued forward. “No doubt he's instituted defensive measures and plans to hold us off as long as possible.” He paused, gasping at the sudden blinding light that zoomed towards him only to blink as a green wall instantly formed in front of him, the explosion of impact rocking the corridor, the scream and silence beyond the organic shield the only indication that his attacker was out of commission. Jr. turned, grateful eyes falling on the impassive features of Kurama. “That... that was a close one.”

“Yes it was,” Kurama agreed, willing the green wall to revert back to a seed, the prone form of a Dark haired SDF member visible on the damaged floor before them. “At this rate it will take hours to reach Enma. I think it's time I use the sleeping mist to clear our way, don't you?” He asked, looking over at his boss.

Koenma was unsure what the mist entailed but nodded. “Do what you must, Kurama. Just make sure no one is hurt.”

“Do not worry, the SDF will merely fall into a deep sleep.” Kurama replied in a reassuring tone, enacting a plant barrier to cut off any chance of the mist affecting his allies as he took out some seeds, crushing them into a fine powder. He blew the dust into the air, a faint mist forming, flooding the hall before spreading rapidly. The mist twirled and slithering along, powered by the kitsune's silent command, infiltrating into the lungs of whomever it came into contact with, pulling them into a dreamless sleep, several thuds reverberating through the walls and floor. Kurama counted the number, allowing the mist to do its work before it dissipated and he lowered the wall. “The way is clear. Lead on, Koenma.”

The spirit prince walked past Kurama and the group continued on, stepping over the many fallen soldiers until at last they reached a set of massive doors. This is it. He thought. Can I do this? Can I really make father step down without resorting to violence?

“Koenma, sir, are you alright?” Botan asked, seeing the fear and the doubt crossing her boss's features.

Jr shifted his gaze over to his head ferry girl. No... she's not my head ferry girl... not any longer... she'll be... a princess... she is a princess... to the most powerful family in the North. I cannot think of her as a simple ferry girl anymore. “I am fine, Botan. Just... nervous.” Straightening his back, the spirit prince reached out and pushed the doors open, turning around when the rest of the group tried to follow him. “Wait here for a moment, will you?”

“My son... surely you don't...” Kasumi started then stopped at the determined look in the boy's eyes.

“Despite all he's done and been accused of, Enma is still my father. Let me talk to him, mother. Let me try to reason with him before we resort to violence.”

“Your father's pride and ego are too great for you to overcome, Koenma,” Kasumi retorted but sighed. “But I understand your reasoning. Just be... careful... I don't want you hurt.”

“Don't worry, mother. I won't let my father do anything to me or anyone else here.” Jr. said softly before turning back to the open doors. He stepped into the shadow that greeted him, walking forward in measured steps, coming to a stop as the deep bass timbre of his father suddenly echoed throughout the massive room.

“So my son returns to his father as a traitor and an usurper. Hardly surprising given your rebellious and wanton abandonment of your duties to this realm.”

Disapproval and disdain were weaved within the words the elder male spoke but Koenma steeled his will, his own voice biting as he countered, “I hardly think you're in a position to lecture me about betrayal and abandonment, father.”

“Insolent child. You have no idea what it takes to keep this world safe from youkai. I did what had to be done, nothing more than that.” Enma growled.

“Like imprisoning my mother?” Koenma shot back. “Like conspiring with Makai to remove my detectives from Ningenkai? Like setting up the prince of the north to die so you could have his wife? Are those the things you deemed acceptable behavior to maintain the safety of Reikai?”

There was a pause then a heavy sigh. “What lies has your mother been filling in your head?”

“They are not lies, father,” Koenma replied darkly. “I have proof of your conspiracy with the kings of Demon World and I have information that reveals the truth of what happened to Prince Satoru.”

“More lies!” Enma snapped. “You have no proof... only the words of a bitter woman and hearsay from the former captain of the SDF!”

“And Botan?” Koenma growled, standing his ground. “What you did to her is a lie too, I suppose?”

Enma flinched. “What are you talking about? I did nothing to that silly female.”

“You took her away from her mother and brought her here, father,” Koenma replied, angrily. “You brought her to me, knowing I would not recognize her. How could I when you never allowed me to travel north to see my mother's kin.”

“That girl was an orphan. She didn't belong to anyone.”

“Because you made her an orphan,” Koenma countered, stepping forward. “What did you do to her mother? What did you do to Mizuki?” The spirit prince heard a sharp intake of breath then silence. When his father said nothing, he continued. “So you killed Botan's father to have Mizuki to yourself... what happened after that, father? What drove you to alter Botan's memories... change her ki... mask who she really was? Did she witness something? Did your conscious finally kick in and stay your hand from killing an innocent child? Tell me, father, just what the hell was going on in your head that drove you to imprison your wife and ruin a little girl's life?”

Silence continued to meet his ears and Koenma snapped. “Stop hiding in the dark and answer me!”

“You don't understand, son. You will never understand.”

There was a fatalistic tone in his father's words that bothered Jr. but he refused to back down. “Again you deny the truth. Very well,” Koenma replied, his voice commanding as he glared at the darkness before him. “Effective immediately, you will step down and surrender yourself to the custody of the Northern Court. There you will confess the truth of what you did and pay the just punishment for your crimes against Reikai, Ningenkai, Makai, and all its peoples.”

Several flashes of red light burst around Koenma, forms taking shape, the elite guard of the SDF now visible and the spirit prince remained still, casting a gaze at the various men and women that surrounded him.

“I afraid I cannot do that, my son,” Enma said gravely. “The only one that will be surrendering today is you,” He paused then commanded, “Arrest him.”

“Yes, sir!” The SDF shouted in unison, reaching out to grab Koenma only to be yanked back and away as a series of vines wrapped around Jr's attackers, slamming them down onto the hard marbled floor, draining them of their energy.

Enma blinked in surprise, moving to rise only to be yanked back down as several green vines wrapped around his wrists, legs and chest, binding him tight to the throne he sat upon. “What is the meaning of this?!” He snapped. “How dare you assault me!”

“I'd keep still if I were you,” Kurama's voice said in a deceptively soft tone, his tall and lean frame emerging from shadow to stand beside Koenma. “Unless you'd like to find yourself on the ground with your defense force.”

“Are you threatening me, demon?” Enma growled, struggling against the organic bindings as he glared down at the kitsune.

“I don't do threats,” Kurama retorted as he returned the Southern King's glare. “Especially when it comes to those who hurt my koibito.”

Enma shifted his attention over to his son, studying him with a disapproving eye. “You let this demon take Botan as his own didn't you? Do you have any idea what you've done?”

“Who Botan chooses to love is none of my business,” Koenma countered. “Nor is it yours. It never was and it never will be,” He paused, voice shifting, becoming harder and more firm. “I'll say it one more time. Either surrender yourself to the authorities in the North or I will have you taken by force.”

Enma remained seated, his features morphing into a look of defiance to match the tone of his words as he growled, “I refuse.”

“Then you leave me no choice,” Koenma said then turned to Kurama and nodded.

The kitsune understood what the spirit prince wanted done and he sent out a silent command, purple light bursting to life, surrounding the king of the south, his massive body starting to shrink as the plants began to drain Enma of his spiritual energy.

“What... what are you doing to me?!” Enma cried as he felt his ki start to leave him, his massive form beginning to shrink. “Stop... stop it!”

Koenma kept his gaze on his father, the bindings remaining taunt, shrinking as the king grew small and human sized. His beard retracted, features now much like his son as his glasses crashed onto the ground and shattered, revealing angry dark orbs that glared hatefully at the kitsune and the prince.

“Insolent... children... you think... this... will stop me... I will... outlast you all... I won't... be taken... alive... like this...”

“I'm afraid you have no choice, father,” Koenma replied. “You must answer for your crimes, no matter who you are.... you are not above the law.”

“I will... never tell you... or them anything... no matter what you do to me...” Enma panted out, weakened by the draining of his spirit power.

“You will tell me, by God, what you did to my sister or I will kill you myself.”

Koenma blinked at the sound of his mother's heated voice and he turned, finding Kasumi and the others approaching the throne. “Mother... you shouldn't...”

“Shouldn't what? Confront my dear husband who so callously had me imprisoned for daring to question him on where he went on his business trips?” Kasumi countered, glaring daggers at the now human form of Enma. “Or perhaps I shouldn't reveal the truth of the many letters addressed to Mizuki that were returned unopened. How many times did she reject your overtures before you became a murderer? How many lives did you ruin in order to try and have what was never yours to begin with?”

Enma looked away, saying nothing.

His silence infuriated the queen and she stalked over to him, grabbing his chin, forcing him to look at her. “Answer me, you bastard!” She hissed. “Where is Mizuki? What did you do to her?”

“I did... nothing to her...”

“Liar!” Kasumi spat, releasing Enma's chin to grab at his collar, staring him straight in the eye. “You took Mizuki and hid her somewhere... you took her child to ensure her cooperation... You locked me away so I could never reveal what I knew. But you can't hide anymore, husband. So tell me...” She snarled, shaking him. “Tell me what you did to Mizuki!”

“Mother, stop! This isn't the way to find out the truth!” Koenma chided loudly as he moved over to Kasumi, trying to pull her away from Enma only to gasp then let go as a blinding flash erupted around the entirety of the room. “What the hell is going on?!”

Kurama could not see but he could sense a shift in the room and he slid over to Botan, pulling her into a protective embrace.

Botan felt the kitsune's arms wrap around her, blinded by the flash as she clung to his shirt, voice panicked. “What is this, Kurama?”

“Some kind of defensive attack,” The red head answered, holding the girl tight to him. “But where it came from, I do not know,” His ears picked up the sound of footfalls and he ducked, pulling Botan with him, the sound of some kind of blade whirling in the air and he rose, pulling Botan protectively behind him, eyes unfocused as he stared straight ahead, vision still dark though his other senses were in working order. He picked up a scent then, his handsome features morphing into an angry look. “Shunjun... I should have known...”

“You're rather crafty for a youkai, I'll give you that,” The captain of the SDF said haughtily. “But you're still nothing more than a foul demon. If I didn't have more pressing matters, I'd kill you where you stand.”

“Doubtful...” Kurama countered coolly. “You will never be stronger than me, Shunjun, and as of today, you will be out of a job.”

“Bold words for a dead man.”

“I could say the same of you, reigen.” Kurama shot back, frowning as he heard the vines around Enma be cut, Shunjun's ki climbing as if he were powering up and the kitsune knew why. So you came to free your king and make your escape, did you. Not if I have anything to do about it. He lifted his hand, plants sprouting up around them in an attempt to confine Shunjun and the weakened Enma but the SDF Captain was too quick, vanishing in an instant as he teleported away, leaving the remaining occupants still blind and confused.

“Did my father just... manage to escape?” Koenma murmured out loud, turning around as he addressed the space near him. “Otake, what the hell just happened? I sensed Shunjun and now he's gone as is my father's spiritual energy.”

Otake sighed, answering in a defeated voice. “Your father knew we were all coming here today... and planned accordingly. Even though he did not anticipate what Kurama would do, Shunjun was aware of his abilities and countered with some kind of flash attack to blind us,” He paused, closing then opening his eyelids as light slowly crept back into his vision. “Shunjun used his teleporting ability to flee the scene before Kurama could rebind the king. It will be very... difficult to find and track them down now.”

“I do not care how long it takes, we cannot let them get away with this.” Kasumi said heatedly. “Enma must be made to pay for what he's done to my family... and to this world.”

“He will, mother, I promise you,” Koenma replied, eyesight returning to him as he turned and focused his attention on Kurama and the ferry girl. “If we can... gather the rest of the detectives at some point.. we should be able to hunt him down and bring him to justice... but the situation in Makai is volatile at the moment. If war breaks out... Reikai will be unable to handle the influx of refugees fleeing into Ningenkai... youkai... may use their power... to take what is not theirs to take... or humans will not be... tolerant of such... creatures invading their lands. More war could break out in the human realm... and with what just occurred... there's no guarantee Reikai doesn't break out into a civil war of it's own. But you already thought about such variables didn't you, Kurama?”

The kitsune nodded. “Yes... I knew something like this was possible... though I hope to try to resolve the conflict between the three kingdoms with the help of Yusuke and Hiei.”

“How do you plan to do that, Kurama?” Botan asked, studying her beloved with curious eyes. “You're all fighting on opposite sides. And you are being watched by Yomi. Any attempt to try to negotiate will be seen as a sign of betrayal and he'll have you killed.”

The kitsune knew the fear his koishii had over his safety. After all, it's not just my life that will be ended... but everyone I care about as well and I cannot let that happen, no matter what occurs to the three realms. “I am aware of that, love. But I have a few ideas to resolve the conflict that will keep everyone safe. It's just a matter of timing and I must continue with my training and that of Suzuka's group. Once I've achieved that, the rest of the pieces will fall into place.”

“Whatever you do, you must be very careful, Kurama. By helping me, you've become an enemy to many in Reikai today. I do not want one of my best detectives to risk or lose his life because of political squabbles and petty wars,” Koenma warned, his eyes drifting over to Botan, features softening. “I am sorry that I was unable to get father to talk of what happened to your mother, Botan. But my mother can tell you more of her, if you're willing to stay around and listen.”

Botan bit her lip. She loved Kurama more than anything in the world and the thought of leaving his side, even for a little while, made her nervous. But I want to know about my family... I want to know where I came from. So do I stay or do I go?

The kitsune sensed her anxiety and her conflicted emotions. Wanting to ease her mind and her heart, he reached out to take her hand in his, drawing her focus over to him. “You do not need anyone's permission to stay or go, love. Only you can decide what it is you want to do.”

“And if I wanted to stay with you?”

Kurama smiled tenderly. “Then of course I would be thrilled but it is right for you to learn more of your family. Your aunt Kasumi can tell you what you need to know and take you to your grandparents... I'm sure they are most eager to know what's become of their only grandchild.”

Botan was reluctant to leave her beloved's side. But I've waited so long to know about my family. If I leave... something could happen and I'll miss my chance to learn about who I really am. “Are you sure it's okay, Kurama? Won't you miss me while I'm away?”

“Absolutely,” The kitsune replied. “I'll be miserable without you by my side. But this is right, Botan. You need to know who you are and where you came from. And with Koenma in charge of the Gate of Judgment, you should have no problem returning to Ningenkai. And if it proves difficult, I will come up here to visit you. It will all work out, love, you'll see.”

“Then I will stay... if that's alright with you, Koenma, sir.” Botan said softly, looking over at the the spirit prince.

“Botan... you're part of my family now, not an employee. You don't have to call me sir anymore,” Koenma said with a smile. “And of course you can stay. I was hoping you would. I will need all the the help I can get to whip the palace back into shape.”

The deity was still trying to wrap her head around this new fact though she returned the smile. “I would be glad to help, s... I mean, Koenma.”

“Good... now then...” Koenma paused, looking over at the former member of the SDF. “Otake, I'm putting you in charge of the SDF. When the men wake up from this ordeal, I want you to inform them of the truth and brief them on what I expect from them in the future. If they wish to leave my service they may do so though I suspect many will remain once they learn all that has occurred.”

“It will be done, my lord.” Otake said with a bow of his head.

Koenma turned his head, studying the kitsune next as he spoke. “I know you need to get back to your training and your family, Kurama, though you are welcome to stay and help out as well if you wish.”

“That is generous of you, Koenma, but I fear I cannot remain here for long and I do not wish to cause friction between the remaining SDF members with my presence.”

“I understand.” Koenma replied, eyebrows shooting up as the sound of George's voice cried out,

“Lord Koenma, sir, you've returned to us! I'm so happy I could cry!” The blue oni rushed up to his boss, pulling him into a bear hug.

Koenma glared at his employee, voice and features irritated as he growled, “Ogre, let me go you blue ninny!”

George lowered his boss to the ground, eyes widening as he spied Kasumi. “My lady, you've returned to us, too? I'm so glad you are alive and well! I'm sorry I could not come to your aid, but I had to remain Lord Koenma's eyes and ears until his return.”

“Ogre, tell me all that's happened since my absence.” Koenma ordered, drawing the oni's attention over to him.

“Yes, sir.” He replied, relaying all the information pertaining to Enma's behavior and actions, watching as his boss's features turned grim.

“So he painted me as a defender of youkai and a traitor to the realm. Not unexpected,” Koenma murmured. “Ogre, what is the status of our guest and family quarters?”

“The same as they were before you left, Koenma, sir.”

“Good,” The spirit prince replied. “I want you to show mother to her quarters then return to the main office, understood?”

“Yes, sir!” George answered with a near salute then looked over to Kasumi. “This way please, my lady.”

Kasumi looked between her son and the oni before addressing Jr. “We will talk about things, later, my son.”

“Yes, mother.. I look forward to our discussion.” Koenma replied, watching as his mother was led away before turning his gaze to Ayame, addressing her in a firm but soft voice. “Ayame, I want you to get on the PA and announce what has occurred so that all remaining employees are aware of the change in leadership. If any of them have questions or concerns, they can come to the main office and I will do what I can to ease any anxiety they may feel.”

“Yes, Lord Koenma.” Ayame said softly, bowing as well before disappearing from view.

“What about me, Koenma?” Botan asked, drawing the spirit prince's attention over to her. “What can I do to help?”

Koenma features turned thoughtful. “You can assist with helping the ferry girls, Botan, if they are confused or in need of answers. Though, you are also welcome to talk with my mother about your family when you are ready to do so. Just come to the main office if you have any questions alright?”

“Okay.” Botan replied.

Koenma cleared his throat then turned. “Well... I'll just show my way out then.”

Kurama watched as the spirit prince exited the room, leaving Botan alone with the kitsune. “He's taken to the role of commander rather easily, hasn't he?”

“He has... I am glad this is over... though I... hate that you cannot stay here with me for a while longer,” Botan murmured, looking up at the red head with sad eyes. “I don't know if I can handle being apart from you.”

Kurama smiled softly, leaning down to rest his forehead against hers. “I will not rest well without you by my side and I confess part of me is selfish and hopes that you will return to me quickly but I know that it is only right for you to learn about your family and where you came from. Though I will miss you terribly while you're here and I'm far away.”

Botan closed her eyes as their foreheads touched, wrapping her arms around his waist as she leaned into him. “I don't want to stay here for too long but I do want to know about my family and why I can't remember anything of my past.”

Kurama held her close, reluctant to part from her, troubled thoughts running through his mind though he kept is tone even. “What was done to your mind can be reversed, love. When that happens, it may be rather traumatic for you... so I suggest you wait until I am with you for that... but for now, let Kasumi share what she knows... go visit your grandparents... learn what you can from them.... then you can return to Ningenkai if and when you choose. No matter how long it takes, love, remember I will always be waiting for you.”

The ferry girl hugged her koibito tightly, shifting to rest her head against his shoulder, his pledge making her heart flutter and she felt heat on her cheeks at his devotion to her and her alone. “I love you, Kurama, you know that don't you?”

“I do, sweet... as I love you.. I will always love you...” He whispered, nuzzling her crown as he held her close. “No matter what happens... my love will never change, peony...”

Something in the way he said those words brought a flash of worry in her heart but it was quickly silence when she felt his head shift, his lips brushing against her cheek and she lifted her own head, turning, meeting his lips with her own. It was a slow burning kiss that made her body tingle, awakening the desire she felt for him and she groaned a bit when he tugged on her bottom lip before pulling away, thrilled at the lower tone of his voice as he croaked out,

“I should... go... now... but I will see you again soon, Botan...”

The deity was reluctant to let go, pouting up at him. “You sure you can't stay the night?”

His eyes flashed at her pout, desire pooling in his normally placid emerald eyes, the timbre in his voice changing, growing deeper still. “Lover... if I stay... I may never leave...”

She shivered at the deepening of his voice, leaning in to nuzzle along his neck, whispering out, “Maybe I don't want you to leave...”

The kitsune smirked, enjoying the attention, even as he teased lightly, “Are you trying to seduce me, Botan?”

The ferry girl kissed up to his neck, smiling against his ear as she whispered. “I am....” She nibbled on his earlobe, knowing how easily it affected him.

He groaned at the attention to his ear, pleasant jolts rocketing through his veins and down, awakening a certain part of his anatomy and he knew he was lost and damned. “Botan...” He moaned, pulling back with great reluctance, blinking when she took his hand and tugged him towards the exit. “Where are we going, love?”

Botan knew this was the last chance they would be together for a while and she didn't want to waste the opportunity to have him to herself. “My room.” She answered quickly, leading him down a series of corridors before exiting into the courtyard. She raised her hand, materializing an oar and she slid on, Kurama following, and she flew up and around the back of the sleeping quarters, floating up to the the outdoor patio of her room. The ferry girl landed and opened the french doors, walking inside, turning as Kurama followed her and closed the doors behind him.

The kitsune looked around briefly, searching for any sign of prying eyes and relaxed when he sensed they were alone. “Your room seems quiet enough...”

“Not for long...” Botan replied, eyes devilish as she studied the kitsune.

Kurama quirked an eyebrow then laughed softly. “You are a naughty girl, Botan...”

“Well, you make me naughty, so there!” She replied in a teasing tone.

“And cheeky to boot... my favorite kind of woman...” He commented with a grin, going over to her as he lifted her up and over his shoulder then headed towards the bed.

“Ack! Kurama!” Botan cried then giggled as he slung her over his shoulder then dropped her onto the bed, her giggle shifting to a moan as his body hovered then rested atop hers. She could feel the hard heat of him against her, could hear the pounding of his heart, see the desire and love in his eyes as she met his darkened gaze with her own, hands trailing up his arms to cup his face. “Love you...”

He turned his head to the side, nuzzling her wrist as he whispered. “Love you too, Botan...” Leaning down, he kissed her, dragging his tongue across her lips, begging for access, claiming her mouth when she parted her lips for him, He reveled in the taste of his peony, shifting his right hand, resting his weight on it as he pushed off of her. He slid his hand under her shirt, dragging the fabric slowly up, giving her slow and heated kisses, lifting his head from hers to tug the shirt up and over the the ferry girl's head, drinking in the sight of her skin. “Lovely...” He murmured huskily, smirking when the deity reached up, tugging at his shirt, enjoying her pout as she murmured,

“Take this off...”

He laughed softly but complied, sitting back onto his butt, starting to unbutton his shirt, surprise crossing his handsome face and Botan shifted to sit on his lap, taking hold of his hands to stop him.

“Let me do it...” She stated in a sultry tone, eyes on his as she slowly undid each button, enjoying the power she had over him. “You're so damn sexy, do you know that?” She said, voice filled with heat as she finished her work, sliding the black fabric off his toned shoulders, her fingertips brushing against his heated skin, aroused at the expression on her lover's face at such a simple touch.

“So are you... kitten...” He panted out, letting her touch his skin, growing harder from the simple contact, groaning when the ferry girl leaned down to kiss and nibble the skin on his right shoulder. “Botan...”

“Do you like that, Kurama?” She asked, his reactions making the ache inside her deepen. “Does it feel good?”

“Yes, love... everything you do... feels so good... so very good...” He replied, watching his lover with heated eyes as the girl tugged his shirt half down but not off, constricting his arms. He could easily break out of the confinement but he was curious at what the girl was going to do next. “What are you up to, lover?” He asked.

Botan enjoyed the sight of him helpless like this, even if it was all for show and she trailed her hands down his chest to his abs, marveling at the way his body responded to her. “What do you think, fox?” She replied, leaning in to nibble and suck on his ear lobe, wanting to drive him wild and remember their encounter.

Kurama's eyelids fluttered closed at her touch, gasping and moaning as she nibbled and sucked on his earlobe, now painfully hard. “God, baby... that's...” He panted as Botan rocked teasingly over the bulge in his pants, her own whimper so damn arousing he nearly came then and there. “Stop... teasing... me...”

Botan bit her lip as rolled her hips against the strain of his arousal, wet and needy from the contact though she didn't want to stop. “No... I want to see... how much you can take.... before you explode...” She whispered, her breath hot and heavy in his ear, wanting to try out some things she'd recently read in the many magazines for human females. Leaning back, she locked her eyes on his and reached up to remove her bra, freeing her breasts, cupping them as she teased the nipples to hardness, moaning his name as she moved against the bulge. “Kurama... feels good... so good... want more... want so much more... than this... mmm...”

Watching her touch herself as she rocked against his swollen and confined member was driving Kurama mad... in the most pleasurable way possible and he growled, unable to control his need for her and he shifted, forcing her back as he pounced on her.

Botan gasped at his aggressive reaction, loving the way he took control. She reached out, yanking his shirt off his arms, tossing it aside, parting her legs, whimpering as he rocked hard against her. “Ohh... yes.... love when... you... do this... to me... so hot...”

The way she talked was different from their other couplings and it made him want to take her hard and rough. “You make me burn, lover.... you make want to claim you... hard, long, deep, rough... until you scream for me...” He growled, leaning down to nuzzle her breasts, licking and sucking the nipples to hardened peaks, reveling in his lover's cries and the growing scent of her arousal.

Botan whimpered at the attention, hands sliding into her lover's hair, telling him with her body that she wanted more, needed more... needed him to slide into her... stretch her... take her rough... claim her... like she wanted him to do for so long... “More... give me more... Kurama... take what you want... make me yours...”

Her words undid him and he flashed his teeth at her, eyes dark as he pulled back, unbuttoning the girl's jeans, yanking them down, nearly ripping her panties apart in his desire to have her. He growled when Botan reached up to unbutton and unzip him, yanking his jeans down past his hips, his black boxer briefs following, cock springing free and he grabbed her wrists with is left hand. He held her still, gripping himself with his free hand, holding back enough to tease her, rubbing the head of his member against her sex and her nub, her cry of pleasure daring him to do more. “You want this, lover? You want me in you? I have no protection... you'll have my seed... in you... a child... growing in you... are you sure.... you want this?”

The thought of having his child aroused her... the danger of what they were doing made her all the hotter for him and she became lost. He was what she wanted... He was who she loved... who she lusted for... grew wet for... surrended to... Botan shuddered in pleasure at his teasing and his words, whimpering as she parted her legs wider for him, begging to be taken. “Yes... ohh yes... I want you... want you so bad... give it to me, Kurama...”

The rational part of his brain knew this was just... word play.... to make the deity respond wantonly to him and what he offered... a brewing of tea would take care of any... complications to their lovemaking but the lustful part of him wanted to give her a child... wanted the world to know she was his and only his. He took what his deity offered, guiding himself into her entrance, claiming her in one rough and deep thrust, voice possessive and deep, flecks of gold bursting in the turbulent emerald pools of his eyes. “Mine!” He snarled, pulling back before slamming into her.

Botan gasped at the rough entry, feeling him stretch her, the hot and rigid hardness of his member causing her walls to quiver as he began to pound in her hard, fast, deep, and rough. “Ohh God! Yes! Ahh! Yours!”

Kurama drove into her wildly, wet smacking sounds filling the room with each thrust he made. Her walls were tight, slick, hot, and welcoming, gripping him, daring him to give more. He complied, driving deeper into her, sliding his hands under her legs, forcing them up and over his shoulders, gripping her hips, eyes never leaving hers as he continued to thrust roughly into her. God she was so damn beautiful and sexy... and all fucking his. He rotated his hips, nearly teasing as he slowed, voice commanding and dominant. “Tell me what you want... who you want... who you belong to...”

The new angle of his thrust and the way he tossed her legs over shoulders was making her even more wet and wanton and she gripped the covers of her bed, her voice a strangled whimper as he slowed, denying her the satisfaction of having him completely in her. “You... oh God.. I belong to you... Kurama... I want you... to make me scream... Want it so bad... please...”

Her answer undid him, gold flooding emerald, signaling his was dangerously close to changing into Youko as he drove hard and impossibly fast into her once again, the bed quaking from the effort, springs squeaking loudly, protesting the force of their lovemaking, grunts and whimpers bursting in the room, mingling into cries of pleasure as the coils within Botan snapped and she came hard, screaming out her lover's name.

“Kurama! Ahh! Yes!!! Oh God.. Oh God!!!”

The kitsune grit his teeth as she clamped down on him like a vice, still thrusting hard into her as he snapped his hips, flooding her with his seed as he roared. “Botan! Nrgh...” He thrust with each spurt until he was spent, collapsing onto her, the girl's legs falling to the side, kissing her heatedly as he moaned. “Ohh, Botan... love you... so damn sexy... make me want to take you again and again...”

Botan's body trembled from the intensity of her release, returning his heated kisses, her skin slick with sweat as she whimpered. “Kurama... you make me want you again and again.. love you... want you... need you... so much...”

He panted at her words, still hard as he moved slowly in her. “Botan... I could do this... all night... and still never stop... I want you... all the time.... Love you.. need you.. want you too... my sexy... girl...”

She bit her lip as he moved gently in her, feeling the ache bloom again. God, how did he manage to make her want him like this? He's a youkai. She answered herself. They can have sex... several times... before they're spent completely... Is that why she wanted him so badly? Because he could give her something no reigen or human ever could? The idea of having him to her herself brought female pride to her heart and she was overcome with possessive thoughts. I don't care... he's mine... and I love him... I won't lose him... not to anyone else... and I won't have anyone else but him. Reaching up, she caressed his face. “Mmm... then take me again, Kurama..slowly... please... for both of us...”

Her plea drew out his longing for her and he took her carefully this time, languid in his thrusts, wanting it to last... to please her. “Botan... lover... my lover...” He panted, hands splayed by the girl's shoulders, watching his deity's expression as he slid back then in, back then in, keeping it slow, controlling his thrusts, the slickness and tight heat of her walls nearly too much to take and he kept his focus on her face and her eyes. The beauty and the sexiness of her brought out his desire, his love, and his devotion... This was heaven and she... she was his deity... his angel... his and his alone and he worshiped her body... her heart... her soul... with his own... with every inch he had... with every passionate emotion he felt... with every possessive and tender beat of his heart... and with every loving thought in his mind... all for her... always for her. I will never leave you... I will always love you my beautiful, wonderful, and sexy peony.

Botan moaned at the attention and the hard heat of him driving gently into her, trailing her hands up his back. He was so beautiful to her... like a dark angel fallen to earth... seductive... wonderful... intelligent... powerful... and so very, very sexy... her body responded to his... called out for his strength and his love and attention... his desire visible in the golden pools of his eyes, marveling as gold became green... love overpowering lust... his handsome face morphing into a gentler look... this was Shuichi... this was his softer side... the side she loved as much as his wilder Youko self... “Kurama... my lover... my demon... only mine... mmm...” She pulled him down to rest on top of her, their sweat soaked skin sliding against each other. The contact of his chest moving gently against her breasts was arousing, the weight of him over her felt right... and so damn good.

“Yes.... your demon.. your lover... your mate... your husband...” He whispered heatedly, slowly increasing the pace. “And you are my angel... my lover... my mate... my wife... mine and only mine... I won't share... never... you belong... to me...”

She stroked his back, moving with him, the coils tightening deep within, the pleasure growing at his whispers and she clung to him, the sound and smell of sex growing as they neared their release, moans and cries bursting from their lips as they came together, shuddering at their climaxes, kissing each other as they rode out their pleasure and the kitsune went still, croaking out, “Botan... if we don't... stop... I will be too tired... to go home...”

Botan continued to tremble, wanting him again but knowing they could not do this all night. And Koenma will expect my help today. Still she held him against her, panting out. “Rest with me for a while... like this... please...”

Kurama complied, laying over her, closing his eyes as he tried to calm the pounding of his heart. She always brought out his need and want of her and he enjoyed every second of it. I never want to part from her but I cannot remain here forever. I have to return home. Burying his face in her neck, he relaxed his body and sighed at her gentle caressing of his back. “We really need to stop doing this without protection... or one of these days we will forget and you will have a child....”

“Would that be so bad?” Botan asked, still riding the high of their lovemaking, her fingers drawing idle patterns across the skin of his back.

“No... except we are not ready to have children... but if... something like that occurred, I would do what I could to provide for you and our offspring.”

“I know you would, Kurama... and I don't want to burden you with such things right now... it's just that... sometimes... I can't help myself... I want you so badly... that I forget... and it's not like we've done this... since... our... first time together...”

Kurama smiled at the memory of their first time, eyes flashing a bit. “Every time is like the first time with you, lover... that's part of the reason why I want you as badly as I do.”

Botan blushed. “And... why else do you want me, Kurama?”

“Because I love you... sweet, lovely, peony...” Kurama answered, kissing her gently before he sighed. “I admit that I am loathe to part from you, Botan... but I do have to go soon... you have duties to perform... and I have to return to my training... but I didn't want to leave... without giving you my own special goodbye...” He said, grinning down at her.

She studied him, returning the kiss ,seeing the twinkle in his eye and she grinned. “And what a goodbye it was... I'll have to make sure to give you a big... hello when I see you again...”

“I look very, very forward to that, kitten...” Kurama said gamely, before reluctantly pushing off and away from her, sliding out of bed, grabbing hold of his boxer briefs, sliding them on as he crouched down to sweep up his jeans.

Botan watched him dress, admiring the view before sliding out of bed and dressing as well. She walked over to him then wrapping her arms around his waist, drawing him into a hug. “I hate letting you go... It's selfish I know... but I want you to stay here with me...”

Kurama wrapped his arms around her in return, resting his chin against her crown, voice soft and soothing. “I want to stay... but I cannot... but I will return to you in a few days to make sure... we don't run into any problems...”

Botan blushed. “Yes... probably a good idea... we were rather... reckless... I know...”

“Yes... and I enjoyed every second of it, lover. But for now, I have to go... and you have to help Koenma work out the problems here. But as I said... I will return to you shortly... so don't worry, alright?”

“Alright...” She murmured then lifted her gaze. “But do I get a goodbye kiss?”

He laughed softly. “Absolutely...” Leaning in, Kurama brushed his lips over hers, kissing her slowly, more loving than lustful in his intention, chuckling as the girl grabbed his face gently and kissed him again and again. “Botan... keep that up and I will never leave...”

“Good...” She whispered but sighed, reluctantly pulling back, caressing his face as she whispered, “You will be careful, right?”

“I will, peony... and you will be careful as well... Danger still exists here and if you have need of me, I will come to your aid without hesitation,” He leaned in to kiss her once more, murmuring against her lips. “Love you, Botan and I will see you soon, goodbye, my lovely peony.”

She returned the kiss, panting against his lips. “Love you, too, Kurama... goodbye my addictive fox...”

Kurama smirked at her words but turned from her, heading towards the door, opening it as he poked his head outside, scooping the empty hallway before sneaking out and down to the stairwell, exiting the building and out onto the courtyard. He took one last long look at the building where his beloved lived, spying her waving to him from one of the windows near the stairwell and he returned the wave, already heavy at heart at the possibility he would not see her again for some time, though he put on a brave front, slowly turning away, walking through the yard and out past the Gate of Judgment as he followed the bridge that would take him back to Ningenkai.