Yu Yu Hakusho Fan Fiction ❯ If Anyone Falls ❯ Departure ( Chapter 29 )

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

Note:

I am going to begin introducing bits of my concept of the Northern Quadrant. There are eight provinces within the region, the largest being Matsu (which means pine) where the royal court and the Celestial Court reside. Kasumi comes from the province of Karu (light), which is governed by her parents, Torvald and Avaron. Who are Duke and Duchess, respectively. I will use the European feudal system for identifying who the ruling class are. However, there will be differences with this system from others in that there are no serfs and there can be some upward mobility. But rule of the land is limited to hereditary lines.

Now, onto the story

Chapter 29- Departure

November 6, 1993 Reikai

“Koenma?”

The spirit prince lifted his head at the sound of his mother's voice, pushing the mountainous stacks of paperwork to the side as he peered between the now open but narrow space. “ I'm right here, mother.”

Kasumi tilted her head, leaning sideways, finding a pair of brown eyes staring at her between stacks of paper. “What are you doing, son?”

“My job,” He grumbled. “Father left this place in disarray. The backlog of souls and reports will take weeks to sort out.”

The lady looked at the mess, shaking her head. “Do you not have oni to assist you with the sorting and filing?”

“Not if I want it done right the first time,” Koenma countered, reaching up to rub the bridge of his nose as he leaned back in his chair. “That's why I asked Botan to guide a few of the ferry girls in how to complete paperwork in the correct manner.”

“Speaking of Botan, I thought now would be a good time to talk to you about her situation.”

“Situation?”

“As to her life up until now...” Kasumi reminded, nonplussed at her son's parroting of her words. “We were going to discuss that, remember?”

“Yes... I remember... I was just trying to straighten things out.. it's been rather hectic here since we got back,” Koenma murmured as he rose up from his chair. “I suppose I could use a little break,” He stretched, heading towards the side door, stopping as it slid open. “Let's head to the lounge, the seats are more comfortable there.”

Visitors lounge

“What?!” Kasumi cried, staring at her son in shock. “Botan carried the Netherworld sphere in her body? That should have been impossible!”

“But it happened nonetheless,” Koenma replied, not surprised by his mother's incredulity. “That's when I began to suspect something wasn't right. No ferry girl has that kind of power, I'm not sure there are any reigens that could have survived something as powerful as that orb. So I tried my best to trace Botan's lineage but kept running into a dead end,” He paused and gestured with his hand in an encompassing motion. “Then all hell broke loose and my attention became diverted with the crisis in Ningenkai. I had hoped to look into Botan's family history upon my return only to now know she's of royal blood,” He lowered his arm back to the side, studying his mother with curious eyes. “But even knowing her lineage, it should have been nearly impossible for Botan to do.”

“Yes, I would say so. To hold the power of an entire realm within your own body... and survive it without losing your life or your sanity... only a select few reigens could theoretically achieve such a feat.” Kasumi replied, regaining her composure after the initial shock.

Koenma leaned forward at his mother's comment, his mind quickly catching on to his mother's hint. “Like the king and queen of the north...”

“They do have higher amounts of reiki than anyone else in this realm. There was a time when your father tried to get them involved in the situation with Demon World but the king and queen refused,” Kasumi confirmed. “So it stands to reason that Botan carries the same power in her veins.”

“But she also has the blood of our family as well... My grandparents... are also her grandparents.”

Kasumi nodded. “Yes... and as you know they are pretty strong in their own right as they are the Duke and Duchess of Karu.”

“I remember my lessons on the different territories in the north,” Koenma murmured. “And I know how powerful they are... but even with such powerful blood, Botan should have succumbed to the effects of the dark matter within that sphere.”

Kasumi's features turned thoughtful. “After she returned to you, how did Botan behave?”

“Withdrawn... depressed... fatigued...” Koenma answered. “I mean, I was so happy that she was alive... when she told me... briefly what happened, I admit I was worried about her state of mind... so I gave her time off to recover...”

“And during that time, she remained with Kurama, correct?”

“Yes,” Koenma admitted, wondering where his mother was going with this line of inquiry. “Why is that important?”

“It means that there is a connection between the two of them that goes deeper than I thought possible.” She replied. And will make what may happen in the north even more... heartbreaking. She added silently. “He must have loved her for a long time.”

“I believe so, but I cannot say with certainty when exactly the two... fell for each other...” Koenma said, clearing his throat as he added, “But I do know that Kurama marked Botan and she marked him... in the eyes of Makai, they are already married.”

“But in the eyes of this world, they are not,” Kasumi countered, holding up her hand when she saw the prince readying to defend the ferry girl and the kitsune. “I know they love each other... and if it were up to me, I would have no issue with their union,” She began, lowering her hand back to her side. “But Botan is the sole heir to the throne. They will not allow her to have a youkai as her husband. No matter how powerful... or unique... he may be.”

Koenma frowned. “Then she should not go north at all,” He protested in a disapproving tone. “It's not right for them to dictate who she can and cannot love.”

“It is also not fair to hide the truth of Botan's existence from her family,” The lady countered. “I know it will be difficult for Botan to adjust, but you know and I know that the news of what happened here has already spread. I wouldn't be surprised if we begin to receive communiques from all over the realm asking about the status of the south... and the court.”

As if on cue, the door of the lounge slid open, revealing the bulky frame of George who panted out, “Lord Koenma, sir!”

The prince frowned at the intrusion, tossing an irritated look in the blue oni's direction. “What is it, ogre?”

George bent over, catching his breath as he tried to calm down enough to reply. “It's... It's your grandfather, Torvald, sir....”

“I know who my grandfather is, you ninny, spit it out already!”

The blue oni pushed off his legs, straightening his back as he answered. “He's on hold, sir... on the screen... he's asking to speak with you...”

Koenma tossed a look over at his mother then rose, following George out, hustling down the hall and into the office. The prince headed straight to his desk, pressing the hold button, the red light turning green, the screen flaring to life, revealing the chiseled features of a flaxen haired male, midnight blue eyes focused on Koenma as he came to stand before the large monitor. “Grandfather... it's been a long time...”

“That it has, Koenma...” Torvald replied, his tenor voice belying the duke's imposing form. “But I am sure you're well aware this isn't just a social call.”

The prince's features tightened. “News travels quickly it seems.”

“Well, it may have something to do with a few of the SDF returning home. Their stories seemed... unbelievable... so of course I had to call and verify the truth for myself.”

“Understandable...” Koenma murmured, turning his head as his mother entered the room.

Torvald's gaze shifted left, his grim features brightening instantly. “So it is true... you are alive and well!” He sang joyfully. “When Enma told us of your disappearance... when we could not longer feel your ki in this realm, our hearts broke.... and then your sister... vanished... and we were inconsolable for the longest time...”

Kasumi saw the tears forming in her father's eyes, her own watering as she whispered. “Father... I'm so sorry... I was... unable to reach you... where I was... no one would be able to find me...”

A dark look sweep over the duke's face though he whispered, “What happened to you, Kasumi? What did Enma do to you?”

The lady held her tongue, hesitate to reveal too much on an unsecured line. “It is a long story and one I will share with you and mother when I return home in a few days.”

Torvald squared his shoulders, leaning back in his chair, understanding his child's unspoken fears and worries. “Very well. I will send a carriage for you and prepare for your arrival. Everyone will be thrilled to see you again, especially your mother who's been rather... emotional since the news.”

“Is she alright?” Kasumi asked in mild concern.

“She is doing well... just anxious to see you,” The blond answered, his tone softening as he added, “I look forward to your return, Kasumi. I love you and want you to come back home safe and sound so no surprises, alright?”

The lady blushed a bit but nodded. “I love you too, father, and I will come home straight away, father, I promise.”

“Until then.”

“Until then.” She repeated, giving a slight bow of her head as the screen went blank.

Koenma watched the interaction silently, waiting until the conversation ended before asking, “Why didn't you tell him about Botan, mother?”

“If word gets out about Botan now, the king and queen will request her presence immediately,” Kasumi answered, turning to face her child. “She is not ready to handle that burden just yet.”

Wrinkles formed on the prince's forehead. “Burden?”

“The burden of the royal court,” Kasumi clarified. “Up until now, Botan has been a ferry girl in service to the south. An important but simple life, free of the demands and decorum those of the north follow. Taking her straight to Matsu will be like throwing her to the wolves.... she's be ripped apart and devoured.”

The visual was unsettling and the prince murmured, “Mother... you make it sound like the court is nothing more than a pack of bloodthirsty animals...”

“And they are, son... jackals and vultures... stalking the weak... wearing them down... waiting for them to die so they can pick at the bones. Botan, despite her heritage, will not be immune to the slander and the lies of the vassals and the retainers of the court... And with her mark, they will crucify her... label her as tainted... cut her down behind her back... and bring her complete misery. She must be prepared... she must have armor to ward off the hateful words that will try to break her heart and drive her to shadow.”

“The way you describe it, I'm rather reluctant to let her go...”

Kasumi understood her son's worry over his Botan. After all, I know he raised the girl. He must think of her more as a daughter than a cousin. “I am hesitant to let her as well, Koenma. But it is right for her to get to know her family... and my parents can help her understand better the role she will play when she does travel to Matsu to meet her father's kin.”

“But what if they try to marry her off to some pompous jerk? That will kill her heart just as surely as the court will kill her spirit. Can't the king and queen just come here to visit her?”

Kasumi sighed. “That's not how it works, my son. The king and queen never leave the province of Matsu.”

Koenma blinked. “Never?”

“Never... not even to search for their son's killer... Why do you think Enma always had to travel? None of his allies or people in power came here. They don't like dealing with the dead or being near the realms of heaven and hell. It... unsettles them.”

“Then Botan shouldn't go,” Koenma countered, feeling protective of the head ferry girl. “If they decide they want to see her, they should overcome their apprehension and come here.”

“If only it were that simple,” Kasumi replied. “Tensions are already high with your father's escape and the news of his crimes. Some will not trust you any more than they did your father... Some in the royal court may persuade Norio and Mayumi that you're holding Botan hostage and that force is required to free her from your service...”

“But... no one even knows the truth except the few of us here...” Koenma murmured, studying his mother in disbelief. “What kind of people would even suggest such a thing?”

“That is how it is in the capital, Koenma... the game of politics and favor comes into play. It's dirty and full of peril. That is why I must take Botan with me to Naru. My parents will be able to help guide her to avoid the danger of ridicule and censure and allow her to get to know her father's family.”

Koenma's shook his head. “I really have no say in the matter, do I?”

“No... it's up to Botan what she wants to do.” Kasumi said, watching as her son turned away from her and headed back to his desk.

“She's most likely in the records room sorting and filing paperwork for storage.” He answered a bit more gruffly than he intended.

The lady found no offense, knowing her son's protective nature towards the girl. “Then I will go pay her a visit.” Kasumi headed towards the side door exit, waiting as it slid open before entering the hallway, leaving the prince alone once more.

Koenma watched his mother go, his shoulders slumping. I know my mother means well... but I worry... I worry about Botan leaving... and never coming back...of losing her spirit... and her joy. The thought of the deity leaving the safety of the south troubled him more than he could ever admit to. And if Kurama finds out the truth about the north... he'll invade that territory and steal her away... causing unease and war... He reached up, grabbing his temples, feeling the familiar pulse of a headache throbbing underneath the skin. I thought toppling father would be easy.... seems I've only made things worse for this place... and for Botan. Gritting his teeth, Koenma grabbed the ink box to his right then slapped the silver hinged top open. Snatching the seal of his office, the prince slammed it down, covering it with red ink as he violently marked each backlogged file of souls, trying hard to control his anger at the situation... and his fear over Botan's future.

Records room

Botan cradled a tall stack of papers in her arms, walking carefully down the hallway that led to the records room. The week had been hectic, the chaos from the overthrow of Enma and his subsequent escape upped the tension with the employees of the palace, making it difficult to move forward with their new goals. Knowing the state of her homeland and in spite of Koenma's assurance that she no longer had to work as a ferry girl, Botan volunteered to help file and store the massive backup of paperwork filling the Koenma's office. But it was proving to be a monumental undertaking. And my arms are getting rather tired from carrying all this stuff.

She trudged along, finally making her way to and beyond the unlocked and open entryway of the records room. She leaned forward, dumping the pile onto the surface pile onto the round table closest to her, her right hand shooting up to keep the tower of white from falling over. Sinking down into the chair, the deity began sorting the papers into the correct order, shoving them into the properly marked files until they were ready for storage. Finished with the first stack, Botan rolled her shoulders then slouched, tilting her head until it bumped against the back rest, then closed her eyes. Whew, another round of filing completed. Twelve hours straight of shuffling, moving, and filing had wreaked havoc on body and she pouted at the pain. I could really use a break right now... and a back rub.

“Ah, so you are here.”

Botan turned her head sideways at the sound of a woman's voice, finding her aunt Kasumi strolling towards her and the girl sat up, straightening her back as she cleared her throat. “I was just... resting for a bit...”

Kasumi came to a stop before her niece, tilting her head to the side at the nervousness she sensed radiating from her words. “It's quite alright, Botan, you're not in trouble or anything,” She reassured before continuing. “I merely wanted to talk to you about a few things. Unless you are busy...”

Botan stood up, eager at the chance to get away from menial work. And I do have a few questions I want to ask her. She rationalized. “Sounds great!”

Kasumi smiled at the girl's enthusiasm. “Then shall we take a walk?”

Botan nodded, exiting behind her aunt as they made their way down the hall and out into the courtyard.

Kasumi scanned the surroundings, curious purple orbs focusing on the lone tree in the center of a barren field and she moved closer, drawn to the pulse of life emanating from it's boughs. “This tree... there's something different about it...”

The ferry girl moved to walk behind Kasumi. “Kurama brought this tree to life a few months ago,” She explained, coming to a stop to her aunt's left. “He said he could hear it crying, wilting away slowly, so he fed the tree his energy, allowing it to bloom forevermore.”

The lady's eyebrows shot up and she turned to study her niece. “Kurama willed this tree to bloom daily?”

“Yes, but it's only natural for Kurama. He's a plant master after all,” She replied, stepping forward to lay her hand on the trunk. “I can feel his energy woven within the bark... and hear the tree singing...”

Kasumi looked from the girl to the tree, straining to hear, eyes widening at the faint sound dancing in the wind. My God, she's right, the tree is singing!

Botan shifted her gaze over to her aunt, beaming at the look of astonishment on her face. “Amazing, isn't? You should see the plans he has for the palace grounds.” She murmured, turning her attention back to the tree.

“Plans?”

“Yep! He drew them for me as a birthday present but with the... issues going on between the three realms, there's been no time for Kurama to come up here and do the landscaping.”

Kasumi could see the love in the girl's eyes as she spoke of Kurama and hear the joy in her voice and a her heart died a little at what would come. “You love the detective, don't you?”

A blush spread along the deity's cheeks. “Yes... I've loved him for a long time now. I will always love him.”

Despite the concern she had over Botan's future life in Reikai, Kasumi could not hide the curiosity in her voice as she asked, “How did you two meet?”

The girl tilted her head up, features thoughtful as she answered, “Well, I was assigned by Koenma to be Yusuke's assistant and liaison between Reikai and Ningenkai.”

“Yusuke?”

“Yep, the head detective for Koenma...” She paused then corrected herself. “Well, former head detective... he can be a pervy jerk sometimes but he has a really good heart... despite being a tough guy... Anyway, Yusuke was working on a case for three stolen artifacts. Kurama had pilfered one of them... a mirror that granted a wish in exchange for their life. Kurama wanted to heal his dying mother... and offered to turn himself in. Koenma saw Kurama's potential as a detective and brought him under his employ. We grew close... and went through many things together... He saved me from the darkness of the netherworld orb... and healed me in the process,” Botan's features turned pained as she recalled the memory. “I was in love with him well before this... but could never be sure he felt the same... when he told me... my heart nearly burst... his soul... his soul is so very beautiful... dark... but there is a light within that is blinding... and I knew then that he loved me too... that he had loved me for as long as I had been in love with him... and we've been together ever since.”

Kasumi listened patiently, surprised at how open the girl was with her emotions, the sincerity in her voice was unmistakable as true love. Her eyes shifted down, studying the covered muscle between the younger female's neck and shoulder, recalling the conversation with her son about the head ferry girl's... bonding with the kitsune. “I can feel a faint trace of Kurama's ki in you, Botan. Koenma told me that it is a bonding mark, meant to keep other youkai from trying to claim you physically. Is this true?”

Botan blushed. Of course she can sense that. Anyone with spiritual awareness would be able to detect it. “Um.... yes... he marked me...”

“So you are sexually active with the detective I take it?”

Her cheeks turned even more red at the frank question and part of her wanted to run off and hide. Clearing her throat she answered. “Yes... why? Is that a bad thing?”

Her shyness and confusion was understandable. It's not like Botan's had a mother to talk to her about things like sex drives and mating rituals. “No... You love Kurama and he loves you... that you two engage in such activity is only natural... but I have to ask if anyone's told you about what happens when a reigen female... begins a sexual relationship with a male partner.”

Botan felt a bit mortified discussing her sex life with a family member she barely knew. But no one has really explained anything to me. “No... I only learned of such things... while observing humans in Ningenkai... and it's not like ferry girls are supposed to have lovers anyway... a few have boyfriends... though most do not. Why? Is something bad going to happen to me?”

She's embarrassed but curious. Not unlike you were at her age, eh, Mizuki? Kasumi thought as she shook her head. “No... not bad... but I'm sure by now you may have noticed some... changes when you are intimate with Kurama.”

Botan tilted her head, thinking. “Well... I mean... we aren't active very often... but when we are.. it's rather... intense...”

“Intense... yes... that is part of it....” The older female murmured.

“Part of it?” Botan repeated, a bit of unease filling her.

Kasumi caught the girl's worry and replied in a reassuring tone. “It's nothing bad, Botan... but it is right for you to know and understand why you may react so intensely when you and Kurama engage in sexual activity. I know little of youkai biology and sex drives... but I do know, as a reigen female, that when we make love, one sexual encounter is not enough. It is not unusual to go two, three, or even four rounds each time we mate. It isn't some craven need that we seek to fill... it's part of our biological make up... because of the difficulty in becoming pregnant.”

“Difficulty in becoming pregnant?” Botan whispered, worry growing in her heart. “Do you mean that Kurama and I... may not be able to have children?”

“I do not know for sure,” Kasumi said softly. “As I mentioned earlier, I know little of youkai biology. No reigen has ever mated with a demon until now, but what little I do know... youkai are very virile... they are numerous compared to the people of Reikai and even Ningenkai. But here in Reikai it takes several years, decades or even centuries before a pregnancy occurs...”

“That long?!” Botan exclaimed then covered her mouth, embarrassed at her outburst. “Sorry about that...” She whispered after lowering her hand to her side. “Why is it so difficult to have children?”

“Well... the men in this world... while more than capable of matching the women in terms of sexual activity... their... seed... isn't always viable... and we females... have issues producing fertile... eggs... so it takes many couplings... to even have a chance of pregnancy...” Kasumi explained. “So I cannot say for certainty whether you could have children with Kurama... if you are allowed to remain with him.”

Anxiety burst in the deity's heart, frowning at the last statement. “If I'm allowed to remain with him? Why wouldn't I?”

How to tell her? Kasumi wondered. “Your paternal grandparents... lost their only child at the hands of a youkai... and now their only grandchild and heir to their kingdom has bonded with a demon. You can understand they won't take well to that news.”

Botan frowned. “Is there some reason I have to tell them right now?” She asked. “I mean... it's not like I plan on living in Reikai for the rest of my life and I have no interest in succession. I just want to know about my family.”

Kasumi pointed towards her left shoulder. “You will not be able to hide that bite mark from them, Botan. They will sense it... and know you have been with a youkai...”

She reached up reflexively, resting her hand over the covered mark. She's right... I can't hide this from anyone... especially my father's parents... “I'm not ashamed of Kurama... I have no reason to hide the truth...”

The lady knew the ferry girl would never relent in her love of the kitsune. And under normal circumstances, she shouldn't have to. “I know you are not ashamed, Botan. I can tell that you truly wish to be with Kurama. But if you are ever going to learn about your family, you will have to travel north. There will be difficulties adjusting to the rules and decorum of the royal court. I merely want to warn you of the troubles you may face meeting with the king and queen,” She paused, careful in her words as she added. “Word has already spread of Enma's crimes and his escape. It is only a matter of time before the truth of who you are reaches Matsu.”

“Matsu?” Botan said, a confused look on her lovely features.

“Matsu is one of the eight provinces in the north,” Kasumi explained. “The capital, Aikuro, is where you will find both the royal court and the Celestial Court,” She studied the girl, asking softly, “After all these years working for my son you must know of the Celestial Court system?”

“I do,” Botan replied. “But I didn't know where exactly it was located. It's not like I was allowed to travel beyond the borders of the south.”

Kasumi frowned. Of course... Enma must have put a policy in place that forbid any ferry girls from travel beyond Ningenkai and the southern quadrant to hide what he'd done to Botan. “Well now is your chance to finally see the court for yourself and learn about where you came from,” The lady drew in a breath, hedging her words carefully as she spoke. “My father, Torvald, contacted Koenma today and arranged for a carriage to come to the Southern Palace. When it arrives, I will be leaving for home. I would like to take you with me to meet him and my mother. But it is up to you to decide if you are ready to meet your grandparents or not.”

Botan was hesitant to accept, her fear of rejection and insecurity creeping into her heart and mind. “If I go, will they... will they try to keep me from Kurama?”

Kasumi understood the deity's fear. After all, that could very well happen when she goes to Matsu. “Not my parents, no... they will accept you as you are.”

Relief filled the ferry girl and she beamed. “Then I would love and go visit them!”

The lady found the girl's joyful expression infectious and she smiled happily in return. “Then you shall.”

Botan returned to the palace with her aunt, heading back to the records room to complete her work, though her mind was occupied with thoughts of meeting her maternal grandparents and her worries about how they'd take to her relationship with Kurama. A tender look gripped the girl's features at the thought of her beloved. Though it'd been only aweek, she missed him terribly and the warmth of his body next to hers. Images of their last coupling made the heat bloom across her cheeks and she idly lay a hand against her stomach, recalling Kasumi's words about the difficulty of pregnancy. We are not ready for children.... but what if... what if I can't have children at all? Will he still love me? She sighed, shaking her head. I can't think like that... besides... he'll bring me the tea and it won't be a problem... for now... Botan lifted her hand, reaching out to grab the nearest paperwork, organizing them into the proper piles, wondering if she would see the kitsune before the carriage came to take her north.

November 7, 1993 Reikai Early Evening

Kurama entered the Southern Palace, guided by the sense of the deity's ki mingled with his own and he followed the invisible trail, making his way to the records room, pausing at the opened doorway, curious eyes falling on the nearby table, a familiar flash of blue visible. “Botan?” When the deity didn't respond he strolled forward, stopping at the sight of his beloved fast asleep in her chair. His features softened and he crouched down, reaching out to gently touch the ferry girl's face, studying her with open fondness as the girl leaned into his touch but remained asleep. His gaze shifted away to the massive amount of paperwork and he frowned. Seems you've been working hard to help Koenma bring order back to palace. Perhaps too hard.

With great care, the kitsune reached out and lifted the deity up, cradling Botan in his arms as he made his way out of the room and down the hall, using his memory of the layout, finding the nearest exit from the main building. Kurama strolled along the path that led through the courtyard, making his way to ferry girl quarters. Once in the girl's room, the fox spirit headed to the bed, reaching out carefully to pull the comforter back. Gently, he lay her down then slid in beside his lover, pulling her into his arms as he rested his head near hers, finding relief in the contact. It wasn't sexual, holding her like this. It was comfort... it was love... it was the truth of where he belonged... and the strength of his feelings for her and hers for him and soon the kitsune found himself lulled into sleep.

Botan awoke to the feel of warm enveloping her and she snuggled into the solid form, her nose picking up the faint traces wood and water and a sleepy smile tugged at her lips, recognizing it as Kurama's scent. It was almost as if he were there with her... right... now... in her bed... wait a minute... How did I get all the way to my room unless.... The deity's eyelids snapped open, blinking rapidly to clear her vision, a soft gasp escaped her lips at the sight of the kitsune in her bed. “Kurama?”

The redhead's ears twitched, drawing into waking at the sound of his lover's voice and he opened his eyes, amused at the surprised look the deity threw at him. “Hello, sleepyhead. How are you feeling?”

“Better than I have in days,” The deity admitted. “But when did you get here?”

Kurama lifted his left hand, checking the time in his watch as he answered, “About two hours ago,” Crooking his elbow, the kitsune propped his head in his open hand, staring down at the ferry girl with twinkling eyes. “Imagine my surprise at finding you passed out in a chair with paperwork scattered all around. I couldn't very well leave you there, so I brought you up to your room so you could rest properly.”

“You carried me all the way up here?”

“Is that really so surprising, koishii?” Kurama asked. “You were wore out from working and needed time to recover, besides,” He paused, reaching out with his free hand to caress her cheek with his fingertips. “I wanted to rest a while here... with you.”

Botan leaned into his touch, her own hand rising to rest over his. “I've missed you...”

The tone in her voice was loving, tender, and warmed his heart even more towards her. “I've missed you too, lover.” He whispered, leaning in to kiss her gently.

Botan returned the kiss, finding she enjoyed the simple contact, cupping his face, stroking the skin as the redhead drew back, their foreheads touching as she murmured. “I had hoped you'd come to me before I had to go.”

Her words drew out his curiosity. “Before you had to go?”

“Aunt Kasumi is going home and has invited me to join her. I admit I am... nervous... about leaving the palace here. It's the only home I've ever known... and there are things... that I find myself... questioning.”

Kurama studied his koi with concerned eyes, sensing her anxiety and hesitation. “What kind of things, Botan?”

The diety bit her lip. Should I tell him? She wondered as she answered in slow and measured tones. “My aunt told me what to expect while I was around my grandparents and mentioned that it would be... difficult for me to hide the truth of my relationship with you.”

The fox spirit frowned, not liking what he was hearing. Though I should have expected this to happen. “It is... natural for people to fear what the do not know or understand... There will be many of your people that will look down at you for loving a demon but you need not worry over the opinions of others. They have no power over you and cannot force you to do anything you do not wish to do.”

“I know... but still... I worry they won't like me....”

Kurama nuzzled his nose against hers, voice warm and soothing. “How can they not like you, Botan? You're a bright, happy, loving, caring, and selfless woman. If I, a mere youkai, can see that, then there is no way your grandparents can fail to notice just how wonderful and unique you truly are.”

His praise made her blush and she hugged him. “I wish you could come with me...”

The kitsune leaned into her hug, returning it. “If it was allowed, I would go... but I know I cannot... my presence would cause a disruption... but Botan, I want you to know that I will be waiting for you no matter how long it takes for you to return... my love for you will never die... so do not fear about what people may or may not say about you and about me... they are not worth your time or effort... I love you and want you to be happy... and to know who you are and where you came from.”

She found solace in his words and strength in his touch and she relaxed against him. “Kurama... Thank you...”

He smiled, shifting to kiss her forehead. “You are welcome, koishii...” Kurama pulled back, slowly sliding out of bed as he added, “Now then, why don't I brew that tea for you, hmm?”

The tea. She replied silently. I forgot about that. Botan reluctantly loosened her hold, letting the redhead slide out of bed before following suit. She watched as he filled the small pot with water and brewed the tea over the portable burner in her room, accepting the tea cup when he presented it to her. Botan drank the contents, lowering the cup as she spoke. “There was something else my aunt talked about... something... you should know.”

Kurama heard the sadness in her voice and he moved closer to her. “What is it, Botan?”

The deity stared down at the now empty cup, unable to meet the kitsune's gaze. “She said that... it may be.. difficult for me to have children with you. That if I were allowed to remain with you, there would still be no guarantee of any offspring...” She shook a bit, voice threatening to break as she croaked out, “Would you... would you still love me.. even if I couldn't give you a child?”

His heart broke at her fear and he reached out, pulling her to him. “Botan... of course I would still love you... you are my friend.... my lover... and my future wife...” Kurama kissed her crown. “Whether we have children or not doesn't lessen my feelings for you. So don't worry about what may or may not happen... the truth is I love you and I always will.”

She leaned into him and closed her eyes. “Kurama... I love you too and always will.”

He smiled, stroking her back. “I know, Botan... I feel your love in my heart and I hear it in your voice. That's why I know everything will be alright.”

Botan drew strength from him, whispering. “I feel your love, too... though I wish.. I wish you didn't have to go...”

Kurama nuzzled her hair. “I don't have to go tonight, love.... I can stay here with you... I confess... I haven't slept well since we've been apart. To rest with you... is what I want most right now...”

Concern lit up Botan's features and she pulled back, lifting her gaze to study him. “Kurama...” She shifted, sitting the cup on the nearby table then took his hands in hers, leading him to bed. The ferry girl stripped out of her kimono and slid into bed, watching as the kitsune removed his shirt then his jeans before laying down beside her. Snuggling up against him, she whispered, “Rest with me, koishii... hold me... and never let go...”

The redhead wrapped his arms around his beloved, content to hold her, eyes closing as he relaxed beside her. “I will never let you go... I love you, Botan...”

“Love you too, Kurama...” The deity murmured, closing her eyes as she settled in for sleep with the one that stole her heart, the pair drifting off into the land of dreams where no harm could befall them.

November 8, 1993 Southern Palace

Botan did her best to hide the nervousness she felt as she headed down the stairs of her room.

“Are you sure this is all you will need, love?” Kurama asked, shifting the yellow suitcase from his left to his right hand. “It hardly weighs anything...”

“Maybe not to you but it does to me...” She pouted, exiting out of the ferry girl quarters, holding the door open for Kurama before she began to cut across the courtyard. “I can't help it that you're stronger than I am.”

Kurama chuckled at her pout, coming up beside her, matching her step for step as he replied, “Well, that I may be.... but you're plenty strong yourself, Botan.”

The ferry girl blushed, casting her gaze over to the kitsune. “You think so?”

“I know so,” He answered. “Your light is strong... and unique... just as your soul is strong and unique... never doubt yourself... even if this physical realm... inhibits that strength, the fact still remains you have power in you.”

The pair reached the front courtyard before the Gate of Judgment, coming to a stop as their eyes fell upon a rather ornate carriage but it wasn't the design that made the kitsune's eyebrow quirk up. “Interesting... I don't believe I've ever seen robotic horses before.”

Botan for her part gawked at the metallic beasts. “Neither have I... I had no idea we even used such technology.”

“There is much you have to learn,” Kasumi called out, drawing the couple's attention. “You'll find the north to be rather... unique... from the south...”

The carriage door opened by itself and the lady shuffled over to it. “Shall we go now, Botan?”

The deity hesitated for a moment, a small part of her still leery about what she would face once she reached the royal court. But even if I stayed... they would find me... as Kasumi said... and if I refused their summons... I could bring trouble to Koenma... and to Kurama... She looked up at the kitsune, her heart aching at the thought of parting from him but she knew he would wait for her... no matter how long it took for her to return to him.

Kurama felt the deity's gaze on him and he looked down, the worry and the fear in her eyes palpable. She doesn't want to leave and I do not blame her. Still, with what Botan had told him, it was only a matter of time before her family came looking for her. And I don't want there to be bad blood between our worlds. He reached out, gently taking her hand in his, wanting to reassure her by touch that everything would be alright.

Botan felt Kurama's hand take hers, her anxiety easing as she nodded. “I am ready...”

The pair walked to the carriage and Kurama reluctantly let go of the girl's hand, storing the luggage in the back compartment before returning to her side. “I guess there is where we say goodbye for now, Botan.”

“I guess so...” She whispered sadly, tilting her head up as the kitsune reached out and pulled her into an embrace.

He hugged her with a fierceness that rivaled his devotion to her. “I love you, Botan... and I will miss you while you're away... I do not know what you will find when you get to your destination but I want you to be careful... if at any time you are afraid or in need of help, I will come to you... and take you home with me.”

Botan leaned into him, inhaling his scent, wanting to remember the moment as she hugged him back with equal vigor, whispering, “I love you too, Kurama... I don't want to go... I want to stay with you... but I know I cannot... I will miss your voice... your touch... your warmth.... while I'm away and I promise I will be careful and return to you as soon as I can.”

He was reluctant to let her go, worry in his heart at what he knew would be a long separation, though he did his best to hide it as he slowly loosened his hold though he leaned in, kissing her softly, groaning when the deity returned it and for a moment the youkai blood in him screamed to take her away... to keep her safe from the unknown that awaited his beloved. But I cannot... I have to let her go... I had to let her do what she must... even though it kills me... “Botan...” He croaked out, eyes fluttering as the deity reached up to caress his face. “As much as I want to stay like this with you... I think you're aunt is wanting to leave... and it's only right for you... to go with her.”

“I know,” She murmured, gently pulling his head down until their foreheads touched. “But I can't help but want to hold onto you for a little bit longer....”

“And I don't want to let you go,” He countered. “But I must...” He drew back slowly, watching as Botan turned from him and entered the carriage. “Goodbye, Botan.” He called out tenderly.

Her heart died a little at the farewell, trepidation filling her though she put on a brave face and smiled brightly at him. “Goodbye, Kurama, and I will see you soon!” She called back, waving at him before the metal door slid closed and the robotic horses started forward, swinging around to exit the Gate of Judgment.

The redhead stood still, watching his lover go, lifting his hand in farewell, remaining in his spot, even as the carriage disappeared out of sight. It felt... wrong to be apart from her. But it could not be helped. And I have training I must attend to if I am to survive what is to come. Lowering his arm to the side, Kurama headed out the gate of judgment, making the slow trek back to Ningenkai, features a mask of calm, though inside his heart was heavy and forlorn in the knowledge that it would be some time before he saw his beloved again.

Another chapter completed. More transition than anything else as we will begin to explore the north and Botan's place in it. There will be a time skip in the next chapter most likely as we will be edging closer to the last major YYH plot line of the Makai Tournament. If you enjoyed this chapter, do please leave a review. It helps to hear from my readers and eases my worry whether people still enjoy this or not.