Yu Yu Hakusho Fan Fiction ❯ If Anyone Falls ❯ Reckless ( Chapter 34 )

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

Another update for those who read my stuff.

Chapter 34-Reckless

June 4, 1994 Genkai's compound

Genkai stood on the engawa of her fighting temple, arms crossed behind her back as she gazed out at the far gate of her compound. Rain pounded against the tiles of the rooftop, the repetitive pinging rather hypnotic but the human psychic kept her senses alert and open. It had been several hours since Kurama had took off to the north, beyond the borders of Genkai's territory. She understood that the kitsune was pushing himself to get stronger. The purpose for which she knew and lamented.

Yusuke and Hiei had to be extremely powerful by now. Cutting ties to this world allowed for them to train at their full potential, unencumbered by feelings or regrets. But Kurama was shackled by duties and responsibilities that hindered his ability to increase his ki. With limited time and resources, the redhead had to resort to more extreme methods. Like running off in the dark to God knows where. Genkai growled silently.

It wasn't that she disapproved of his dedication or desire to grow stronger. Rather it was the recklessness and abandonment of caution that was so unlike Kurama's normal behavior that troubled her. The female fighter was aware of Botan's disappearance and Kurama's near death experience in attempting to enter Reikai. She also knew that the fox spirit would do whatever it took to get her back. Including pushing himself to the brink of death. Was that what happened tonight? Was that why he was overdue to return?

Genkai caught the gate opening and she turned her head, her gaze falling on a slowly encroaching shadow and her eyes narrowed. She could not sense Kurama's ki at all and she took a defensive position, her spiritual energy rising as she called out in a demanding tone. "Stop right there!"

The shadow went still at her command, a flash of lightning erupted overhead, illuminating the features of a young man with blond hair, but it was the person slumped over his shoulder that drew her attention and her arms dropped. "Kurama?"

Just then, the six fighters emerged from their rooms, having sensed Genkai's spike of ki, various shades of concern on their faces as they surrounded her.

"What's going on, master Genkai?" Touya shouted out above the roar of thunder, his ice blue eyes shifting over to the stranger and concern turned to anger. "Identify yourself! Why do you have Kurama?"

"You heard Touya," Chu barked out, glaring at the intruder. "Who are ya and what have ya done to Kurama?"

"I come in peace," The man replied, his eyes scanning the crowd of people before him. "My name is Kanjaku, a servant of Yomi, King of the West," He stepped forward, voice and features non-threatening. "Kurama is hurt and in need of medical attention. May I bring him inside?"

The mention of Yomi caused the six men to cast looks at one another then back at the blond youkai but it was Genkai who spoke next.

"Follow me."

Kanjaku gave a nod then stepped onto the deck, following the wizened woman as she led him to a nearby room, sliding open the shoji door before she entered. The blond entered next, sensing the six men behind him and he crouched down, gently sliding the unconscious Kurama onto the red futon in the center of the room. He backed away, remaining still as Genkai crouched down to the kitsune's right.

"Help me remove his jacket, Touya, will you?"

"Of course, master Genkai," The ice apparition knelt down to the left of Kurama, unzipping the parka then shifted him onto his side to remove it, revealing a black turtleneck underneath. Touya rolled up the fabric, eyes widening at the sight that met his gaze. There, on each side of Kurama's rib cage, were five puncture marks, blood oozing out of the open wounds. Dark bruising extended beyond the marks along the entirety of Kurama's torso and the blue haired youkai gasped in shock. "What the hell happened to him?"

"Looks like some kind of animal attack," The human psychic replied as she leaned forward, voice soft and clinical and she opened a hand, her fingertips hovering over the puncture wounds. "Judging by the span of each mark, a rather large one. He's lost a lot of blood," Her gaze swept over the contusions and bumps spread all over the kitsune's bare skin and her brow furrowed. "All of his ribs are fractured," She paused, looking up at the pale features of the redhead with troubled eyes. His ki was nonexistent, his skin cold to the touch and his heart rate was close to flat-lining. What happened to you, Kurama?

"Is he going to die?"

Genkai shook her head at Rinku's question. "Not on my watch." Lifting her hands, the psychic hovered them over the wounds and closed her eyes. She concentrated, drawing on her healing ki as blue light sprang from her palms, her power weaving through the sight of injury. She watched closely as muscle began to reconnect and the bleeding stopped. Mottled skin morphed back into a normal hue as she trailed the light along each rib and the bones mended. It was an arduous task but at last Kurama was healed. "He'll need plenty of rest and quiet to recover." She murmured in the darkened room as she rose, walking over to grab a blanket from the nearby storage box. Unfolding it, Genkai lay the light blue comforter over the red head's still form then turned, motioning everyone to follow and the small woman led the men out of the room and onto the engawa before traveling to the main hall, the fighters right behind her.

"Alright, Kanjaku, I think it's about time you explain what you know, don't you?" Genkai asked as she turned to face the interloper.

The blond youkai drew in a breath then let it out slowly. "After the first attempt on Kurama's life, Yomi instructed me to keep watch over the fox spirit and if the situation called for it, aid him in whatever way possible."

"Looks like ya kind of failed him tonight, mate." Chu murmured as he studied the smaller male.

"I could not keep up with him in his youkai form," Kanjaku countered. "But I could track his ki and I did. For well over 200 miles until his spiritual energy suddenly vanished. I came to a clearing in the wood and that's when I saw Kurama floating in the air high above the mountainside and away from an avalanche that crashed over a cliff and down to the ground far below. I followed the trajectory of his descent back into the woodland and I found him broken and bleeding on the forest floor. I brought him here because I knew you could heal him."

"So you didn't see who attacked Kurama then?" Genkai asked.

"No," Kanjaku admitted. "But there was something strange that happened before I found Kurama."

"Strange?" The psychic murmured.

"There was a voice on the wind... the words were foreign to me but the power weaved within them was of Reikai origin. That's when the snow came shooting down off the side of the mountain."

Genkai's features hardened. "So, knowing they had failed with the first attempt, someone from Reikai came here with the express purpose of finishing the job. Possibly the same someone who kidnapped Botan."

"That is my thinking as well," Kanjaku said. "Whoever it is, they're afraid of Kurama finding a way to enter Reikai. So they waited until he was vulnerable to attack him."

The human female's wizened features turned contemplative at the blond's comment. "I think you're right... I think they're very afraid of what Kurama will do. They know how strong he is... and what he's capable of. They know he won't stop until Botan is safe with him once more. The question is, just who exactly took Botan?"

"That I do not know," Kanjaku murmured, "My lord Yomi believes that Botan was taken to prevent Kurama from marrying and having children with her. Such a union would be... tantamount to treason... to the people in Reikai."

Genkai crossed her arms behind her back, pacing as she spoke. "What else did your boss say about all this?"

"He doesn't want Kurama harmed or killed. He value's the fox spirit's opinion and strength and wants to help him free Botan from her captors. If she is still imprisoned in Spirit World after the war, Yomi will assist Kurama in retrieving her."

I thought as much. Genkai replied silently. War was coming to Makai swiftly. And if Botan is not returned to Kurama, war will come to Reikai as well. She shook her head. Koenma, why haven't you found her already? "So, Yomi is preparing for war now? I take it Yomi is also anticipating Kurama's return to Makai with these men here?" She made a gesture with her head, indicating the six fighters in the room.

"Yes. Yomi knows Kurama will keep his promise and return to Demon World with the men here." Kanjaku replied. And from the ki spikes I sensed when I entered the compound, these men have met and surpassed the power level goal set by Kurama himself. "I must return to Makai and report to Yomi," He bowed his head to Genkai. "I thank you for helping Kurama in his time of need. I know you will take good care of him and when he awakens would you please tell him I am sorry for not being able to help him sooner?"

Genkai studied the boy as he bowed, quirking an eyebrow at his formal behavior but returned the nod, watching as the blond youkai pivoted around and exited the main hall. Odd demon. She thought, turning her attention to Chu when he spoke,

"That blighter was strange... couldn't sense him at all..."

"Probably because he's a spy or something for Yomi..." Rinku commented.

Touya, for his part, shifted his ice blue eyes over to Genkai. "Do you think he was telling the truth about what happened to Kurama?"

"Yes," Genkai answered, voice softening a bit at the truth she knew must be told. "And he must have sensed your ki levels earlier... When he reports back to Yomi I have no doubt you will be summoned to Makai to join his army."

"So are training is done then?" Shishi asked.

"Yes..." She commented, sighing as she headed towards the door.

"Where are you going?" Susuka asked, studying the human female with curious eyes.

"To bed. I've had enough fun for the evening. But if you slackers want to stay up all night, that's your prerogative just be quiet about it. I don't want Kurama's sleep disturbed, understand?"

"Of course, Genkai..." Touya answered silencing Susuka with a look before the green eyed youkai could muster out an insulting comeback.

Genkai slid the door shut behind her then turned left, walking down the deck, stopping at the door of the kitsune's room and she reached out then cracked it open. Peeking inside, she saw Kurama laying there, still as death, and she felt concern bubbling in her mind. The fox spirit was very strong... and this latest episode would undoubtedly make him stronger still. But you're not well, Kurama, are you? You haven't been for a long time now. The loss of Botan's presence was making the kitsune act in a reckless manner with his own body. That recklessness had nearly cost him his life tonight. But love made people do foolish things. And if what Kanjaku said is true, you're even willing to go to war with Reikai itself to save Botan. But from who? Who was holding her prisoner? She wondered as she shut the door and headed to her room. And who had attacked Kurama tonight?

June 4, 1994 Site of the Avalanche

Atsushi stood at the base of the mountain, golden eyes fixed upon the massive pile of snow before him. The avalanche was a crude but effective method of attack and given the lack of a ki signature, it was quite possible the foul youkai was buried beneath the icy wreckage, dead and no longer a threat. But what if he wasn't dead? What if he had failed? Tracking and finding Kurama had been easy enough, the flare of his spiritual energy like a marker and the man at arms merely waited patiently, knowing the kitsune's power would eventually give out and make him vulnerable to the elements and his own power. This had been his best chance to eliminate the threat to the realm and to Mitsuko. And if it ended in failure... I may have no choice but to resort to other... tactics... He looked up at the roaring sky, the storm still raging above and he frowned. The weather here is just as miserable as Makai's. Time was pressing and he had to report in to his king before the day was out and he was... missed. Closing his eyes, he vanished from view and the gaze of youkai eyes that watched in the darkness.

June 4,1994 Gandara

Yomi sat at the head of the council table, listening patiently as Kanjaku spoke in troubled tones, his brow furrowed when the younger youkai finished his report. "So someone from Reikai attempted to kill Kurama tonight? They must truly be scared of him invading their realm to engage in such a risky endeavor."

"As they should be," Kanjaku said. "They must know that Kurama will do whatever it takes to rescue Botan and have resolved to eliminate the threat."

"And chose to hit Kurama at his most vulnerable..." Yomi murmured, tone and features contemplative as he added, "Still, whoever it was that targeted Kurama must be strong... and smart... I do not like this Kanjaku... I fear this is not the end of things..."

Kanjaku's brow furrowed. "What do you mean, my lord?"

Yomi took a few seconds before answering. "They will try again... and keep trying to kill Kurama until he is dead. I cannot have my second in command fall before the war has even begun... That's why I will give him control over the army... and I will need his strength and cunning to protect Gandara from Mukuro's assault."

Kanjaku tilted his head. "You think he'll strike soon then?"

"Raizen is on the brink of death... he could die tomorrow... or die a month from now, either way he will die very soon... once that happens, Mukuro will bring her army to our doorstep and try to obliterate us. I cannot allow that to happen. I must have my army ready to meet her head on... led by the smartest youkai I've ever known."

The blond studied his leader in surprise. "So you're going to make Kurama general of the army, sir?"

"That is the plan."

"But... what about Shachi, sir? You know he won't let the demotion go without a fight."

"That's what I'm hoping will happen," Yomi replied with a smirk before his features grew more serious. "After you get some rest, I'll be sending you to Ningenkai to inform Kurama to bring his men here. After they've been tested, I will hand over control to Kurama so he may prepare for invasion and how best to counter it. Once Mukuro's been dealt with, he may use the army however he sees fit.".

Kanjaku nodded and smiled, happy that his king was willing to let Kurama use the men to rescue the ferry girl. "As you wish, my lord." The blond said with a long bow of his head before rising and exiting the room.

Yomi remained seated at the table long after Kanjaku left, his mind going over all that he'd learned. The kitsune had been reckless in his behavior, allowing himself to be tracked by ki and nearly killed when he was at his weakest. Love makes people do foolish things... and you do love Botan, don't you, Kurama?... so much you're willing to start a war to get her back. Yomi knew Kurama would not be able to focus completely until Botan was returned to him. And I don't blame him for his desire to punish those who took her but it must be done in such a way that doesn't compromise what my plan is for Makai. The youkai king's expression grew grim. Raizen would perish soon and despite how calm Yomi's behavior was on the outside, inside he was worried about what was to come. Kurama, old friend, you need to recover quickly... before war comes to Gandara.

June 5, 1994 Genkai's Compound early morning hours.

Kurama lay within the darkened confines of his room, his body still recovering from the trauma of near death on the mountainside. Though his ki level had returned to normal, the kitsune's consciousness remained drawn within, visions floating in his mind that stabilized and he suddenly found himself cloaked in darkness, confusion giving way to desperation as he heard his beloved's voice call out to him.

Kurama... Help me... Please... I need you...

A pinpoint of light caught his eyes and he raced forward, following the thread of ki he could sense from Botan, the light growing stronger and brighter until the inky blackness surrounding him was obliterated and the fox spirit's eyes widened at the sight that met his gaze. "Botan..."

There, about 10 feet from him, the deity lay in suspended animation within the confines of a glass capsule. Hope and fear swept over him as he crept cautiously forward. He had found his deity... but what was wrong with her? Why was she encased like this? Kurama stopped before the capsule, troubled emerald eyes studying the many monitors that showed her vitals... and a nearly flat line heartbeat...She was alive but in stasis... they had shut down her body to the bare minimum to keep her docile... and unaware of what was happening to her. Yet she had called to him... so she knew... she knew something was wrong... and that he alone could save her. His head snapped back up at the sound of Botan's voice in his mind once more.

Kurama... you're here...

Surprised emerald eyes found themselves staring into the amethyst ones of Botan, a look of hope upon her lovely features and he watched as the girl's right hand reached out. He mimicked her actions, the palm of his left hand pressing against the glass to match hers. "Botan... I'm here... I'll save you... I promise..." He vowed, jumping as the monitors flared to life and an alarm exploded in the silence, red lights flashing around him and a look of panic bloomed in the ferry girl's face.

You have to go... go before they find you!

"Botan... I can't go... I can't leave you like this!"

Please... I don't want them to catch you... they'll kill you, Kurama... they'll kill you like this!

Like this? He wondered... What was he exactly? Where was he? He saw her gaze shift, saw her eyes widen in fear and he whirled around, pain greeting him a blow to the forehead, Botan's terrified cry of No! Reaching his ears before the darkness took him, dragging him away... away from the light... away from her... No! I have to save her! Botan... Botan...

"Botan!" Kurama cried, bolting upright from his futon. A wave of pain slammed into his brain and he clutched his forehead, recalling the attack in his dream. A dream... it was just a dream... or was it? He felt everything... saw everything... heard everything... Botan's subconscious had called out to him... reaching his own unconscious mind. But how?

He lowered his hand, eyes sweeping across the room and he recognized his surroundings. I'm at Genkai's. Flashes of memory danced in his line of vision and he winced, recalling the attack by Kara, instinctively lowering his hands to touch his sides, finding smooth skin and unbroken bones. Genkai must have healed me but how did I get here? More memories returned to him and realization struck him. Kanjaku brought me here. Kurama suspected the blond youkai was the one monitoring the kitsune's progress in Ningenkai. Which would explain how he tracked me after the avalanche.

The redhead's features darkened. Someone else had tried to kill him. Someone of Reikai origin. They must have known the barrier wouldn't be enough and targeted him at his most vulnerable. Whoever it was, they were very smart... and very skilled... and afraid... afraid of the threat he posed. As they should be. He thought as he rose, going over to his backpack. He crouched down, pulling out a pair of jeans and a powder blue t shirt and dressed quickly then exited his room, stopping at the sight of Genkai as she approached.

"Up before the rise of the sun are we, Kurama?" Genkai greeted, tilting her head to look up at the tall form of the kitsune. "How are you feeling? Any residual pain?"

"I have... a bit of a headache but other than that, I feel well enough."

Genkai nodded. "Good. The others are waiting in the main hall. Shall we go?"

Kurama gave a nod of his own, following the human psychic as she passed, entering the hall to find his men seated and talking excitedly among themselves. They grew quiet at his approach, greeting him in their usual manner, turning their attention to Genkai as she spoke.

"As you can see, everyone's been worried about you, Kurama. So perhaps it's time for you to share what happened to you up on that mountain yesterday."

Kurama nodded, sitting down in front of his men as he revealed the truth of his near death experience.

"That was a bit reckless, mate, using up all your ki like that," Chu began, studying the redhead with surprised eyes. "But it seems to have paid off... you're much stronger than before."

"True, it was reckless... and made me vulnerable... I'd have died if not for Kanjaku bringing me here."

"Kanjaku said he was unable to see who attacked you but mentioned someone of Reikai origin. You didn't get a good look at him, either, I take it?" Touya asked.

"No... but I heard his voice on the wind... felt his power spike and I knew he was the one who caused the avalanche. He tried to kill me to prevent me from rescuing Botan. Who he works for exactly, I do not know. What I do know is that they are afraid of me and I have no doubt they will attempt to end my life again when they find out I'm still alive."

"And the youkai that attacked you?" Suzuka murmured, drawing the kitsune's attention over to him. "You said a parasite managed to control the animal that attacked you. But why? What purpose would be gained in killing you unless they worked for Mukuro or Raizen?"

"The parasite that attacked me does not work for either of those kings. His boss is a youkai by the name of Shachi." Kurama explained. "He's the current general of Yomi's army. He's hated me from the moment Yomi brought me to Makai as an adviser. He used the parasite, Kara, to try and take over Botan's body nearly a year ago."

"And ya didn't kill him then?" Jin asked. "I'd of torn apart the bastard with my wind for that."

"I had hoped the threat of death would have been enough," Kurama murmured. "But it seems Shachi did not learn his lesson from our last fight," Gold flecks burst in the kitsune's normally placid orbs. "I will have to rectify that mistake... very soon."

June 5, 1994 Makai-Shachi's quarters

Shachi paced in his room, his mood growing darker by the minute. He'd witnessed Kanjaku's return to Gandara, but had been unable to find out the topic of conversation between the blond and Yomi. Something that Kara was adept at providing. But the parasite had yet to return to Makai and the general wondered if he'd been killed in the attempt to end the kitsune's life. Not that Shachi really cared about Kara's well being. He was a merely a useful tool for spying on Yomi and nothing more. If he's dead I'll just have to find another creature willing to help me.

"Hey boss."

The scaled youkai whirled around at the sound of the parasite's voice, beady eyes glaring down at Kara. "You're late, Kara," He growled. "What the hell took you so long?"

"Ningenkai is farther away than you think, boss. And Kurama is much stronger than I thought he would be."

Shachi frowned. "What are you talking about? Did you manage to kill him or not?"

"No... though I did wound him severely," The parasite admitted. "But even with his ki depleted, he managed to fend me off. I was going to try and finish him but then an avalanche struck and I fled. I thought the snow slide might of killed Kurama so I backtracked and found something I didn't expect."

The general glowered at the parasite. "I don't have the patience for all the mystery, Kara, so get to point."

Kara felt the anger boiling in his boss's eyes and he backed up a bit, voice and features apologetic. "Well, remember the talk about someone from Reikai trying to kill Kurama?"

"Yes, what of it?"

"I saw him."

Shachi quirked an eyebrow at this tidbit of information. "Did you now? And what did he look like?"

"A tall man... with greenish hair... and golden eyes... he was... strange... his power was definitely of Reikai origin but the smell..." Kara paused, dragging on the conversation and the general had had enough.

"For the love of God just spit it out, already!" Shachi snapped.

Kara cringed but complied. "He smelled of Makai..."

The scaled demon studied the parasite in confusion. "I thought you said he was a reigen."

"He is."

"Then why would he smell like Makai unless..." His voice trailed off, eyes narrowing as a sudden thought popped into his head.

"Unless what, boss?" Kara asked, looking up at the general in curiosity.

"Unless he recently visited Demon World." The scaled youkai replied, casting his gaze out the window.

Kara blinked. "Wait... do you think he..."

"Is conspiring with someone from Makai?" Shachi finished. "It's possible. But I don't care about that right now... I care about what happened to Kurama. I need to know if the bastard's dead or not."

"Well, as I told you, I didn't kill him. I thought the avalanche might have but with that reigen involved I had to wait until he left before searching the snow. There was no trace of Kurama to be found, so most likely he escaped."

"And you didn't bother to check beyond the mountainside did you?"

"No, I didn't."

Shachi crossed his arms. "Kanjaku also returned from Ningenkai... and reported to Yomi. The topic of which is unknown to me. But I suspect it had to do with Kurama. That little runt didn't seem upset so I can only imagine the kitsune is alive and well... and heading this way."

"Uh... boss... I don't mean to alarm you... but I think Kurama knows it was you that sent me to kill him."

"What?" Shachi growled, turning around to glare down at the parasite. "How could he possibly know it was you?"

"He could sense me... he already knows who I am... and what I attempted to do to his mate on your orders... this time... I don't think he'll let you live."

Fear seized hold of the scaled demon's features and heart. If I stay here... Kurama will try to kill me... Memories of the stranglehold in the conference room ran through his mind and he compulsively lifted his hand to rub his neck. After that incident, the general had taken to trying to boost his own ki, growing in power. But did he have the strength to face Kurama in a fair fight? The general wasn't going to stick around to find out.

Kara watched as his boss starting ransacking his own quarters, asking in a confused tone. "What are you doing, boss?"

"What does it look like I'm doing?" Shachi replied, stuffing what belongings he could into various bags. "I'm getting out of here before Kurama comes back."

"But where are you going to go? You don't think Yomi will notice you gone?"

"Yomi no longer trusts me as it is... When he hears what I've done... He'll kill me... or Kurama will kill me... either way I'm a dead man."

"And escaping will solve that dilemma?"

He paused at a sudden thought and he turned to look at the youkai parasite. "This reigen you caught the scent of Makai from... do you think it's possible he's working for Raizen or Mukuro?"

Kara blinked then frowned. "A person from spirit world working for one of the kings of Makai... no, I don't think so. But maybe someone who lives here?"

"Someone powerful that isn't in one of the three factions?" Shachi murmured. "Someone from the south perhaps?"

Kara tilted his misshapen head. It was well known that the southern part of Makai was a vast land inhabited by half of the youkai race... they were fiercely independent from the rest of Demon World and the territory was too massive in scale to conquer, let alone control, though Kara knew Yomi was going to attempt to do just that. So was it possible that there were high level of demons that simply wished to keep to themselves and remain hidden in the unending forests and mountains to the south? Yes... but whoever it was that reigen visited... wasn't a simple demon... it had to be someone who knew about the kitsune... and of the human world... but who? "It's possible... but I cannot say for sure... why? Is that where we're headed?"

Of course he'd latch onto me in this... after all... his life is on the line too. "Yes... if what you said is true... then the person this reigen visited might be able to help us finish off Kurama once and for all." Shachi replied, slinging the bags over his shoulders and back.

"You still think you can kill him, boss?" Kara asked, slithering behind his leader as the larger youkai exited the room and headed towards the elevator.

"Kurama might have forced my hand..." Shachi murmured as he entered the elevator. "But I won't let him get away with it... I will make sure I get my revenge... one way or another..." He vowed as the two of them fled from the palace, making their way south to where their possible ally might be found.

June 6, 1994 Reikai- Matsu royal palace

Atsushi walked through the courtyard, returning to the palace in his usual manner and he made his way down the winding staircase to the depths below the main court, slowing to a stop at the sight of Norio who was pacing back and forth in the dimly lit corridor, his dark green eyes coming to focus on the man at arms as he called out in a anxiety riddled tone, "Where have you been, Atsushi?!"

"Taking care of a youkai problem, as you ordered me to, sire," Atsushi answered truthfully, though he did not explain what he was doing beyond that. "Has something happened since I've been gone?"

Norio's features turned grim. "See for yourself."

Atsushi moved to the door, pressing his hand against the tablet and the door slid open, allowing the green haired man to step inside, the faint pulse of Botan's ki emanating in the room and he marched over to the capsule, surprised golden orbs taking in a small fissure within the center of the glass. "How did this happen?"

"As the one who created this device, I was hoping you could tell me," Norio replied, coming to stand to the smaller man's left. "An alarm went off inside the room and the monitors went haywire yet there was no sign of an intruder. But Mitsuko's energy could be sensed leaking through the crack in the glass. It's almost as if she..."

"Woke up? Is that what you were going to say?" Atsushi interjected, his gaze still focused on the fracture in the glass. He leaned forward, inspecting the damage, noting it had started from the inside out. Was it possible that the ferry girl had bypassed Atsushi's own mental blocks and ki suppression in an attempt to escape? Or was it something else? He shifted his gaze to his left, frowning at the outline of a hand against the glass. All of the guards wore gloves so none of them would have left fingerprints. "Did you touch the glass, my king?"

"What?" Norio murmured. "No... I didn't touch anything. Why?"

The man at arms pointed to the palm print and the king shook his head.

"I don't understand. You and I are the only ones who have access to this room. And if I didn't leave a print and you haven't, then who's print is it?"

Atsushi looked back to the still features of the ferry girl and concern began to bloom in his heart and mind. The defensive spell he had weaved within the room had chased the intruder away... but who was the intruder? He remained silent to the king's question, focusing his ki in an attempt to passively invade Botan's mind only to be forced out by the growing light within her. A power that was meant for other things... not for this... and not in this way... so how? How did she manage to bypass all the walls and changes in memory he'd created to keep her docile and unaware? Could it be... the youkai that awoke her? Was he still alive? His eyelids opened, studying the palm print with curious orbs, and answer coming to him then as to the owner of the mark. You called to him, didn't you? He was near death and you sensed it... even in suspended animation... you sensed him... you brought his spirit here... to try and rescue you... Admiration of her abilities grew in his mind along with a tinge of regret... It seems your power is growing in ways I had not expected nor anticipated, Mitsuko. Unfortunately I have no choice now but to move on to the next phase of my mission.

"What do you see, Atsushi?"

The green haired reigen's eyelids opened at the sound of Norio's voice. "Nothing, my lord. Mitsuko is actively blocking any attempts to read her mind."

The king's eyes widened. "What? But... how is that possible? I thought you altered her memories and suppressed her energy."

"I did... but her body is responding in a manner of self preservation. She cannot recognize friend from foe so any attempt to try and read her mind will be futile," He lied, pressing in a series of commands on the lead monitor. "Whoever... or whatever it was that triggered this event may attempt to do so again. And with her ki leaking out, there's no telling who's sensed it."

"You think someone outside of the kingdom felt it? I could barely feel it when I entered the room how could anyone else have sensed it?"

"There are those in the SDF capable of tracking down anyone with a minute trace of energy. And I would not put it past Koenma to have sent spies within the capital itself to keep an eye on the palace and its inhabitants."

"If that's true... and they sensed her energy, then Koenma will come here to actively search for her."

"I concur," Atsushi said. "We will have to move her to a safer place. With stronger barriers to keep her confined."

"Confined? You mean more than she is now?"

"Yes," The smaller man replied but did not elaborate, pushing a button on the side of the capsule, the glass door opening and he reached in to pull the girl up and over his shoulder. "And I know just the place to take her." He added before vanishing from view, leaving a surprised and unsettled Norio behind.

Outside of the palace, the brown eyes of Abverden narrowed. Though it was faint... the unique ki was unmistakable. Botan... So you were here all this time. He started forward in an attempt to track down the ferry girl only to frown as her energy suddenly vanished. Whoever took her was very fast... and very adept at hiding their own energy pattern. So adept that Abverden could not gain the direction of their disappearance. But she was here... Koenma was right after all. Turning away from the palace, Abverden headed towards home with great urgency, making sure he was well beyond the borders of the capital city before flipping open his communicator and reporting what he'd discovered.

June 6, 1994 Reikai- Southern Palace

Koenma sat at his desk, going through the motions of his daily work, his mind preoccupied with the situation in the three worlds. Makai was on the verge of war, Ningenkai would suffer from the fallout, and Reikai... could enter into the fray from one of the very detectives that had helped protect it. I know you want to find Botan, Kurama... but causing a war between worlds is not the way to go about it. A flash of red burst to the right of Jr. and he reached out, pushing the button, the screen before him coming to life and Koenma blinked in surprise at the face that stared back at him. "Abverden?"

"Good afternoon Prince Koenma," The purple haired reigen greeted. "I'm sorry for interrupting your work but something's come to light that I felt you should know about."

Hope lit up the prince's face. "Have you found Botan, Abverden?"

"I found a trace of her ki, prince, but then it vanished in thin air once more."

Koenma leaned forward. "Tell me where you traced her ki, Abverden."

"The royal palace of Matsu, sir, as you suspected."

Anger and relief crossed his youthful features. I knew it! Still, his vindication felt hollow and worry grew in his heart. "Have you informed my grandparents?"

"Yes, sir... and your mother. She was most insistent I contact you. She said you would know what to do next."

The prince nodded. "I do at that. Thank you, Abverden. When you reach Karu, tell my mother I will contact her soon."

"As you wish, prince Koenma."

Contact severed, the screen went blank and Koenma rose, transforming into his young adult persona and he reached out, pushing the communication button. "Otake, I need you to report to my office ASAP."

"On my way, sir." The voice of the captain of the SDF crackled back. A flash of light erupting before the desk, converting to matter as Otake now stood before his boss. "Reporting for duty as you requested, my prince."

Koenma studied the officer as he spoke. "Good. I have something I need you to do for me, Otake."

"What is it you require of me, sir?"

"I want you to gather 10 of your best men that do not hail from Matsu and meet me in the front courtyard in 5 minutes."

His request for officers outside of the capital province of the north brought instant understanding to his features. "Botan's been found, hasn't she?"

Koenma nodded. "Abverden sensed her ki, albeit briefly, in the palace of Matsu. We're going there to confront the king and queen about Botan and we won't leave until we get the answers we seek."

Otake was impressed with Koenma's resolve. It's about time. "It will be done, my lord." The captain replied, giving a quick chest salute before disappearing from view.

Koenma watched him go then called out in a softer tone. "Ayame?"

The dark haired ferry girl materialized to the prince's right, drawing Jr's attention. "You called, my prince?"

"We've had a break in our search for Botan and I need to head up to Matsu. While I'm gone you will be in charge."

She moved closer to him, a softness in her words that matched the hope in her sapphire eyes. "She's been found?"

"Her ki was detected by Abverden in Matsu," Koenma answered a determined look in his gaze as he added, "But whether she's still there or not remains to be seen. Regardless, I won't be leaving there until I get the truth," He rounded the desk, heading towards the main door, stopping at the light touch of Ayame's hand on his arm. He turned around slowly, her expression of concern making his heart react. "It will be alright, Ayame. I'll bring Botan back, I promise."

"I know you will... but you must be careful, my prince. You do not know how the royals in Matsu will react to your presence and I do not want you hurt."

Koenma smiled softly, touched at her concern. "Ayame... you worry too much. It will be fine. I'll have the SDF with me. Besides, Norio has much to answer for and unlike my grandparents, I have no loyalty to the court," He touched her hand with his own, gently squeezing it. "I'll come back to you, as I always do." Reluctantly he let her hand go and pivoted around, exiting out the main door as he made his way to the courtyard, his features hardening as he steeled himself for what he was about to do. I will find out the truth and bring Botan home and end Kurama's plan to invade Reikai.

June 6, 1994 Genkai's compound

Kurama stood out in the courtyard of Genkai's temple, his eyes falling the approaching form of Kanjaku, knowing the reason for his return to Ningenkai. "So it's time then?"

"Yes," The blond youkai said with a nod as he came to a stop before the kitsune. "Raizen's death will occur at any time now and Yomi wants to be prepared to defend Gandara from Mukuro and Raizen's descendant if he chooses to strike as well." He paused, his tone become more personal as he asked, "How are you feeling, Kurama?"

The kitsune gave a small smile in recognition of the blond's concern. "I will live... which is more than I can say for Shachi when I see him next."

Kanjaku's expression changed from concern to confusion. "Shachi?" He murmured, his mind recalling the wounds on the kitsune's torso and realization struck him. "Kara... He must have sent Kara to attack you!"

Kurama was impressed with the young youkai's reasoning. "He did... It seems Shachi didn't learn his lesson from our last encounter. I plan to rectify that mistake."

There was a deadly coldness in the redhead's voice that made Kanjaku shiver. Man, Shachi, you really messed up didn't you? Not that the black op agent cared. The bastard had it coming to him for messing with Botan and Kurama. "I take it you are ready and willing to return to Makai with me then?"

The fox spirit nodded. "The men are ready for inspection but there is one thing I must do before I go." He replied and walked passed the blond demon and into a small room beyond the main temple. Kurama walked over to the phone, picking up the handle and dialed his home number, standing patiently as the phone rang, the voice of his mother on the other end as she spoke in a soft voice.

"Hello?"

"Hello, mother." Kurama greeted warmly.

"Shuichi! It's nice to hear from you! How is your field trip going?"

Kurama hated lying to his mother. But it can not be helped. I will be gone for some time and I do not want her to worry over me. "It's going well. I'm learning much of the local flora here in the mountains. I should return within the month."

"So long?"

He heard the hesitation and uncertainty in Shoiri's voice and sought to soothe her concern. "Well, it's part of my final grade for Botany, mother. And I've already taken the rest of my exams for the semester early to complete this project. But this is something I must do to keep pace for the year."

"I know you want to maintain top score in school, Shuichi, but I worry about you just the same. You will call me as often as you can, right?"

"I will, mother. I promise to be careful and call you when I can," Kurama said in a sincere tone. "I love you and will talk to you soon."

"I love you, too. Goodbye, Shuichi."

"Goodbye, mother."

Kurama hung up the phone gently, his shoulders dropping a bit, the weight of his deception bearing down on him. I'm sorry, mother. I don't mean to lie... but I must to keep you safe... Kurama returned to his room, grabbing his backpack and slung it over his shoulder before returning to the courtyard. He found the others waiting and his gaze shifted to Genkai whom he honored with a long bow of his head. "Master Genkai, I thank you for all your help in training these men and for your hospitality. Without your assistance, I would never have succeeded."

A slight smile tugged at the female psychic's lips as she looked up at the kitsune. "You're welcome, Kurama. And could you do a favor for me?"

Kurama lifted his head and straightened his frame. "If it's within my power to do so."

"When you see that slacker, Yusuke, tell him I said hello... and as for you... be careful... and have faith... Botan will not be lost forever to you."

A flash of pain crossed the kitsune's features but he squashed it quickly. "I will do so... and I pray that you are right... Master Genkai..."

"And as for you six..." She added, looking over at the men she'd help train for nearly a year. "You were all a pain in the ass at times to train but I think of you as my students so don't disappoint me by going off and dying, you got it?"

The six youkai snapped at attention, flashing various looks of annoyance or amusement as they nodded.

"Very well then... off with you... and good luck!"

The six men waved good bye to their teacher, Kurama giving a bow of his head before turning to Kanjaku. "Alright, Kanjaku, lead the way."

The blond nodded, taking the lead as the group followed him out the northern gate and to a stabilized portal that would allow them to enter Makai where Yomi awaited them.

June 6, 1994 Gandara Central Palace

Kurama stood off to the side in the throne room, passive emerald orbs watching as his men powered up and remained still, allowing Youda to measure their energy. The wizened youkai gasped as he read each man's total output of ki. "Incredible... simply incredible..."

"What is it, Youda?" Yomi asked as he sat on his throne, waiting for his adviser to answer.

"Their power levels all exceed 100,000. But... how is this possible?" Youda shifted his stunned gaze to Kurama. "What did you do to get these men to jump to S class in less than a year?"

"Simple diet and exercise," Kurama replied softly, smirking at the grumbling complaints from his men.

Yomi was pleased. "Very good, Kurama. You have kept your end of the bargain and now I will reward you by giving you the title of general. You now have control of my army to do as you wish."

"Um... my lord... what about Shachi?" Youda asked.

"What about him?"

"He didn't show up for the meeting today. Do you wish for me to inform him of his demotion? Or do you wish to do it yourself?"

Yomi rose. "I think I will personally deliver the news. He and I are overdue for a long talk anyway," He stepped down onto the floor, features firm and his voice commanding. "I want you to escort these men to their quarters and see to their needs, whatever that may be," He shifted his head in the general direction of the kitsune, voice softening a bit. "Kurama, walk with me, will you?"

The redhead fell lockstep beside the taller Yomi, the silence remaining between them until they entered the darkened hallway.

"So tell me, Kurama, now that you have control of the army, what do you plan to do with it?" Yomi asked, though he well knew the answer.

Kurama was also aware of Yomi's knowledge of his own situation but replied truthfully. "I intend to rescue Botan and punish those who took her."

Yomi said nothing for a few seconds before replying, "The loss of Botan has affected you greatly, Kurama. I can't say I blame you for wanting to do whatever it takes to bring her back to you... but you must realize the danger at our doorstep first and foremost."

I knew this would be his response. Kurama thought, keeping his face and voice neutral. "I am aware of the threat of Mukuro's army and of Yusuke's should he come here seeking war," He began, stopping beside Yomi as they stood before an elevator. "And I have thought out counter measures to deal with them if necessary." Though I do not wish to fight Yusuke or Hiei.

Yomi was intrigued. "What sort of counter measures?"

"You have a great expanse of forest around the entirety of your city," Kurama began, entering the elevator after Yomi did, continuing his explanation as the elevator began its rapid descent. "I will plant specific seeds that, when triggered by my command, will bloom and release a sleeping pollen into the air. If by chance, some manage to escape that trap, I have another one lined up for them."

"And what does that trap entail?" Yomi asked, stepping out when the elevator doors opened.

"There will be seeds spread through the perimeter of the city itself. These seeds, once activated will grow into vines and latch onto the attackers, draining them of their energy, thus making them defenseless."

"And if they get through that?"

"Then I will go out and meet the enemy myself." Kurama answered coolly, betraying none of his inner turmoil.

Yomi smiled, pleased at the fox's answers. "You will make an excellent general, Kurama. I always knew you would. It's too bad Shachi won't be a part of my army now," He commented as he began to walk down the corridor that led to the soon to be formal general's quarters. "Kanjaku told me when you arrived here that Kara was responsible for the physical attack on you. Is this true?"

"It is."

"Then Shachi deserves what is coming to him." Yomi murmured.

"I take it you're fine with my intention to kill him then?"

Yomi smirked. "Do you think I brought you along simply for conversation? I knew you two were destined to fight one another... and I confess I want to witness Shachi's demise first hand," His sensitive hearing caught the faint hum of a nearby terminal and he stopped, turning towards it as he commanded in a firm tone. "Computer, tell me the current location of General Shachi."

There was a bleep noise before the terminal answered in a masculine voice. "There is no General Shachi currently residing in the palace."

Yomi frowned. "What do you mean, he's not residing here? Computer, search the visual records. Where was Shachi last seen?"

There was a short delay before the computer replied, "General Shachi's last known whereabouts were recorded outside of Gandara, walking in a southern direction."

So you've fled for the safety of the south have you, Shachi? Seems you're not as stupid as I always presumed. Yomi thought as he turned towards the kitsune. "Your prey has escaped, Kurama... Under normal circumstances I would allow you to give chase but with the threat looming, here, I cannot take that risk."

"Understandable," Kurama commented evenly. "I can deal with Shachi in my own time. Right now I'm more concerned with rescuing Botan."

"As you should," Yomi murmured. "I like your lover, Kurama. She's a beautiful soul. Her light is blinding in its beauty... such a rarity in and of itself. And she holds great power... you must have sensed it yourself on numerous occasions."

Kurama flashed a rare look of shock, glaring at the king when he let loose a soft laugh.

"I can feel your irritation, Kurama... and your guarded possessiveness... Is it so strange that I would notice such a unique ki, even as blind as I am?"

Kurama said nothing and Yomi's smile fell.

"Forgive me... I didn't mean to upset you with this observation. I'm merely stating a fact... as you well know. She is beautiful... and pure... a purity of light... that would make many a man lust after her... for her body... and for the power she possesses."

"What is your point?" Kurama growled, growing more agitated by the second.

"My point is this, Kurama. Botan was taken from you because the people in her realm will not allow a mating to occur between a youkai and a reigen. This... you already know... But did you stop to think there was more to it than that?"

Kurama's eyes narrowed, comprehending what Yomi was trying to say but reluctant to play along. "Are you speaking of the light within her?"

Yomi said nothing for a moment, clasping his hands behind his back as he spoke. "Her power is... different from a youkai's... our strength is tied to our ki... hers is tied to her soul. Surely you know this already?"

"Yes, I am aware of it." Kurama answered in a calm tone though gold flecks began to form in the emerald pools of his eyes, his Youko self edging closer to the surface, irritated at the continued discussion of his beloved deity's light.

"Then you must also know, even on an instinctive level, that her light... if harnessed properly... could kill a demon with ease. Yet she's never hurt you with that light... do you wonder why that is?"

"Because she loves me." Kurama answered, well aware of the strength blooming in his lover's soul.

"Yes. Out of love for you, the light recognizes you as hers... and will not attack. But what if something or someone... where to try and harness that for their own means?"

Understanding sparked within the fox spirit's mind and his features darkened. "You mean to tell me you think someone took Botan not because she was going to be with me... but to manipulate her energy as some sort of weapon?"

"It is merely a theory," Yomi admitted with a shrug. "But I like your ferry girl, Kurama. I don't want to see that light in her die... That's why I've had Youda do some research on ki based barriers that I think you'll find informative."

"Why would you do this for me?" Kurama asked, studying Yomi with skeptical eyes.

"Is it so hard to believe that I worry about Botan and about your state of mind?"

"Yes." Kurama said darkly.

Yomi chuckled, nonplussed by the fox's glare and the anger radiating off him in waves. Funny that it took a woman to bring out your emotions, eh, Kurama? The king thought as he spoke in a non threatening tone. "It is wise to be guarded, Kurama. It is how a demon as old as you has survived for so long. You do not have to believe me... but the truth is, I do have information that could prove useful in your quest to enter Reikai and bring Botan back where she belongs. Free from the influence of the ones who hold her hostage."

"And what do you want in return?" Kurama growled. "Haven't I done enough for your cause."

"Of course you have. The only stipulation for this information is that you aid me in stopping Mukuro and Raizen's descendant from destroying Gandara. If you manage to defend the city from them, then I will aid you with everything at my disposal. I will even help you to invade Reikai if negotiation will not suffice."

Kurama thought over Yomi's proposal, about to give a reply when the terminal suddenly crackled to life.

"Lord Yomi, sir, there's a communique that just arrived that I think you'll be interested to hear!"

The king of the west turned away from Kuram and towards the computer, recognizing the excited voice of Youda. Now what has got that old goat in such a tizzy? Yomi wondered. "Patch it through, Youda, I'll listen to it here."

"As you wish, sire."

The computer went silent for a few seconds before a young male youkai's voice came through the intercom as the recorded message began to play. "This is Akio, commander of the covert ops third division sending a coded report as to the situation in the kingdoms to the North and to the East. Raizen has died... His chosen replacement, Yusuke Urameshi, has ascended the throne and left, heading southwest in the direction of Gandara. Manashi, commander of the second division, has sent word to us that Mukuro has mobilized his fighting unit and turned west, also heading for Gandara. In a matter of days these two kings will reach the city. We are pulling back from our detail and heading home to aid in the defense of Gandara. Akio out."

Yomi listened to the message then asked the terminal. "How long ago was this message sent, Youda?"

"Yesterday, sire. The storming season is upon us... so communication lines are delayed. But that still gives us time to gather our defenses and plan strategies to counter any attacks the enemy would unleash on the city."

"Our new general is already several steps ahead of us, Youda. He'll make sure our defenses are secure."

"What of Shachi, my lord?"

Yomi frowned. "Fled like a coward... Kurama will deal with him later... for now... inform the men and the city to make preparations for war."

"It will be done as you command, my king."

Youda's voice cut off and Yomi turned to address his new general. "Well then, Kurama, it seems we'll be having guests very soon. Shall we prepare to greet them properly?"

Kurama nodded and followed behind Yomi. His features remained emotionless but inside he was a hurricane of conflicted emotions. Part of him was eager to see his friends again... even if it was on the battlefield... but his heart... his heart longed to free Botan... he had been given control of the army... had Yomi's support and possible information that would allow him to bypass the barriers of Reikai itself. But now that would be put on hold. His thoughts wandered, concern building within him at the theory Yomi had mentioned. Was it possible someone wanted to use Botan for her power? If so, who... and why? Botan... please wait a bit longer... I swear I will save you... even if I have to defeat Yusuke and Hiei to do so... I will come for you, love... no matter what happens in the days to come... I will find you and bring you back home with me.

June 6, 1994 Matsu Royal Palace

Norio stood before Koenma and eleven of his men as they glared at one another in the front courtyard of the royal palace. "What is the meaning of this intrusion?" The king of the north demanded. "You can't just come to my city and enter my grounds without permission. I won't suffer your impertinence!"

"You will suffer me!" Koenma snapped, pointing an accusing finger at the older reigen. "I know what you've done, Norio! I know you had someone kidnap Botan... one of your own men... and had her brought here! You lied to my men and you lied to me. Well, the lying ends now. Where is she?"

"I don't have her."

But Koenma wasn't convinced. "Where is she?! If you don't bring her out right now, I will send my men in to find her!"

"I don't have her!" Norio roared. "And I won't let you search the grounds. I refuse!"

"Otake," Koenma called out over his shoulder. "Begin your search and if anyone gets in your way, you have my permission to arrest them."

"You can't do that!" Norio shouted. "Guards stop them!"

The captain nodded at his boss's command, vanishing from view before the guards could intervene.

"Norio, what is going on?" Mayumi called out to her husband as she entered the courtyard, eyes widening at the sight of the SDF and the king's guard as they moved to strike one another.

"You stay back, Mayumi, this doesn't concern you." Norio commanded.

"Doesn't concern me?" She retorted. "Ever since you concocted that crazy scheme to keep Mitsuko in Reikai, I've been walking on egg shells, waiting for something bad to happen... and now it has. Just tell them the truth already."

The king gasped and looked over to his wife in shock. "Mayumi, be silent!"

Koenma watched this exchange, his features darkening. So Norio was the one who plotted this out. Yet something bad's happened since then... But what? "What's happened to Botan? Where is she?"

"We don't know." Mayumi admitted, drawing a glare from her husband.

"Mayumi! That's enough!" Norio shouted but the queen would not be silent.

"No, I'm tired of all the secrecy and the lies!" Mayumi snapped. "I didn't want Mitsuko to go to Ningenkai and marry that demon, either, but what you did... what we did... we must answer for," She turned to Koenma and explained. "Atsushi has her now."

"Atsushi? Who is that?" The prince asked.

"Our man at arms. He was ordered by Norio to kidnap and bring Mitsuko here... but now Atsushi's gone and he hasn't contacted the palace to inform us of his whereabouts. It's as if he's..."

"Vanished... is that what you were going to say?" Koenma finished for her, studying the royals with angry brown orbs. "You took my cousin and conspired to keep her from marrying a youkai... because you could not understand Kurama... you feared him... and the idea of any offspring their union would produce. How stupid could you be? You think Botan would forgive you? You think you can simply erase her memories of Kurama? You do not understand love and you do not understand the spiritual connection they share. If you did... You would know Kurama loves Botan with all his heart... and his soul... He's risked everything for her and that won't end simply because you took her away from him." Koenma paused, a dark expression marring his handsome face as he growled. " When you kidnapped my ferry girl and attacked my spirit detective, you attacked me... and my kingdom... that is a declaration of war, which is forbidden in our world," His back straightened, adding to his strength as a leader and his resolve. "You know what the punishment of that is, don't you?"

Norio's features paled, knowing the penalty for his actions was the loss of his title... and his position of authority in the North "What... you... you can't!" Norio cried, looking at the spirit prince in fear and desperation. "We've ruled the North for over 500 years! You can't force us to give up our title over something like this! I just wanted Mitsuko to stay here, what is the crime in keeping her from being tainted by a youkai?"

"Because you did it against her will!" Koenma said heatedly.

"Lord Koenma, sir?"

The brown haired reigen looked beyond the royals to his captain, frowning at the troubled look on Otake's face. "What have you found, captain?"

The mustached man walked over to his boss, laying a hand on his shoulder and the two vanished from view, reappearing inside a darkened room where an open glass capsule lay. "What is that, Otake?"

"What they kept Botan in, sir," The captain answered. "There are traces of her ki within this contraption. It looks to be some kind of stasis machine, meant to keep her confined and docile... unaware of her surroundings," He paused, pointing to the various monitors. "They kept records of her vitals here... seems they were trying to manipulate her memories... but weren't very successful at it."

"Why do you say that, Otake?"

"Because she's not here, sir."

Koenma frowned but didn't ask for an explanation, watching as the officer closed the glass case and pointed to a palm print.

"The ki is very faint on this print but the energy pattern... belongs to Kurama."

"What?!" Koenma cried, looking over the data. How was such a thing possible? "I thought Kurama couldn't enter Reikai."

"His body can't but maybe his spirit could..." Otake commented. "But that's not the only shocking thing I found, sir."

Koenma frowned at his captain's grim features. "What is it, Otake?"

"The ki and DNA I collected from the controls on the monitors... are a match for the missing officer, Daichi."

Koenma's features fell. If what Otake said was true... then... this Atsushi... and Daichi... were one and the same person. Darker thoughts ran in his mind and the words of his mother came to him then. Have you pondered the possibility your father was involved in the kidnapping? If that was the case... Botan wouldn't be anywhere in Reikai. He turned around, heading towards the open doorway, Otake close behind as the officer asked,

"Lord Koenma, where are your orders, sir? Do you want us to continue to search the grounds?"

"No," The prince replied, nearly racing up the winding staircase. "We won't find her here, Otake."

"Why is that, sir?"

"Because Botan is no longer in Reikai," He answered, marching down the hallway and out to the courtyard, stopping a short distance from the royals who studied him with anger and fear in their eyes. "I need you to take me back to the palace, Otake."

"What do you want the rest of the men to do here, sir?"

"I want them to keep watch over Norio and Mayumi. If they try to escape, arrest them."

"And what about you, sir?"

"I'll be heading to Ningenkai. I need to speak with Kurama and tell him the truth."

"The truth?"

Koenma nodded. "The truth that Botan isn't in Reikai."

"So our other orders, my lord?"

The prince thought for a moment then turned to study the captain. "Send the other SDF officers down to Human World and Demon World. Copy the ki and DNA data and give it to them. We have to find Botan and find her soon... before it's too late... for all of us."

Otake frowned at the ominous tone in his leader's voice but complied. "It shall be done, my lord."

Koenma watched as the captain gave his orders, his thoughts and features troubled. Botan.. where are you? And what does Daichi plan to do with you?

June 6, 1994 ?

Dark orbs studied the unconscious and still form of the ferry girl as she lay behind enclosed glass. This room was a special one... one used for situations just like this... She will remain confined... and under control here... He thought, his gaze shifting over to the green haired man. No matter how many times they met, he could not get used to his subordinate's appearance. "You've done well... Daichi... though I had hoped to keep her in Reikai for a longer duration than this."

"I had no choice," The golden eyed male said. "Mitsuko was becoming too aware... and her powers... are growing faster... and in ways I didn't think possible..."

"Hmm... and her memories?"

"Her light is too strong for me to alter them... though her repressed memories... still remain... locked... as you ordered me to do... long ago..."

The man in shadow stepped forward, the faint light reflecting off his glasses as he turned his gaze back to Botan. "So I did..." His features softened as he sensed another presence in the room and he smiled, addressing the new comer with a tender tone. "Botan's become quite beautiful... like mother... like daughter... wouldn't you say... Mizuki?"

Dun, dun, dunnnnn... not the most exciting chapter I know but I thought this would be a good place to leave it... Another chapter is complete... how many more I am not sure... but it will be more than the three I said as I still have many things to cover before moving on to the sequel. Speaking of which... there are two options I'm open to suggestions on. One will have this story of mine ending after Yusuke's return to Human World.. and the other option is ending it after the tournament. The wedding of Kurama and Botan will occur in the sequel most likely along with all the family stuff that follows... either way... I'm thinking more like 5-6 chapters max for this story before I move on to the next part. So review with your thoughts. I always want to know what readers think and like. And remember that reviews make me happy... and don't you like me happy?