Here we are. The final chapter to this epic of mine. A long time coming. Some questions will be answered why a few will remain. Onto the story!

Chapter 41- Breaking through walls

Makai Tournament, first aid station

Botan walked besides the unconscious kitsune as he was wheeled into a small room. She waited until the orderly closed the door behind him before stripping Kurama of the tattered remnants of his clothing. She studied his nearly naked form, her heart hurting at the various cuts, bruises, and stab wounds inflicted on his body and not for the first time did she wonder how her lover managed to survive so many lethal injuries. The ferry girl rolled up her sleeves and rummaged around the room, finding what she needed and she filled a small bucket with warm water then grabbed a cloth. She cleaned each wound with gentle care before setting the bucket aside to begin the long process of healing Kurama's damaged body. Once that task was completed, the ferry girl let out the breath she'd been holding and reached out to draw a sheet up and over Kurama. Her ears caught the sound of the door opening and she turned, casting a curious gaze over her shoulder. There, standing near the entrance, was Hiei.

"Hello, Hiei," Botan greeted. "Come to check on Kurama have you?"

"No," The fire demon replied. "I know the fox will survive. My purpose in coming here was to speak to you."

Botan blinked. "Speak to me? About what?"

"It concerns your mother."

The ferry girl jumped up from her chair. "Has something happened to her?"

Hiei refrained from using his usual snark at the sound of her concern, instead shaking his head as he replied, "There is no threat to her physical health at this time. It's her mind that's the problem."

A knowing look spread across the ferry girl's face. "You mean her memories, don't you?"

The fire youkai nodded. "I know you are well aware of this fact. But it doesn't have to remain that way."

Botan studied him with surprise and a sudden hope. "You know how to help her, don't you?"

"I might. But what I have planned is not without risk. The question is, are you willing to give permission and aid in breaking through the psychic barriers wrapped around her mind?"

Botan nodded without hesitation, pausing only to lean down to gently brush her lips over Kurama's."Rest love, and don't worry, I'll be back soon." She turned to Hiei. "Lead the way."

First Aid Station- Mizuki's room

Botan found Yoichi standing beside their mother and another male. A tall man with many strange piercings, her voice curious as she asked, "Excuse me, who are you?"

"My name is Shigure," The youkai answered, uncrossing his arms as he pushed off the wall. "I'm a surgeon."

"I don't understand," Botan murmured as she turned to Hiei. "I thought you said there wasn't anything physically wrong with my mother."

"My expertise isn't only in physical augmentations... I also have technical skill in damage to the mind."

"He's an insurance policy in case things go wrong," Hiei said and walked forward, stopping at the side of Mizuki's prone form. He reached up then tugged the wrapping around his forehead, exposing the closed eyelid of his Jagan.

Botan stepped up to stand beside him, studying the fire demon with curious eyes. "What do you need me to do?"

"Rest your hand on my shoulder and close your eyes," Hiei answered then added, "You too, Shigure."

The ferry girl did as she was told, her left hand lifting to rest on Hiei's right shoulder.

Shigure took his place to the smaller youkai's left, his right hand reaching out to rest on Hiei's left shoulder.

The koorime shifted his right hand to rest on Mizuki's forehead, the Jagan flaring to life and Hiei closed his eyes, voice low and distant. "Let's begin."

A flash of light erupted and Botan blinked in reflex, the confines of the stadium hospital evaporating, replaced by a sudden and glowing mist that shimmered in the surrounding darkness. "What is this place?"

"The surface level of Mizuki's subconsciousness."

Botan shifted her focus down, finding Hiei standing beside her. Her ears picked up the faint ring of metal and the image of Shigure appeared to the koorime's left.

"Interesting," The tall man's deep timbre rumbled. "I've never dealt with this type of mental barrier before."

"Is the mist navigational?" Hiei asked.

Shigure stepped forward, studying the swirling mist intently. "No. We'll have to sweep it away but we must be careful. If we use too much power, it could trigger other defenses that could do real harm to us... and the patient."

"Sweep the mist away," Hiei murmured then smirked. "I can do that," His smirk fell, voice serious as he growled. "Stand behind me and don't move."

Botan and the doctor did as they were ordered, taking their place behind them.

Hiei concentrated his energy, fire bursting around his right hand that slowly dissipated into nothingness.

Botan frowned, about to ask what happened when she felt the air grow warm and she backed up even further as the fire demon unleashed his energy, the invisible ki rolling outward in a wave of heat.

The mist evaporated upon contact and a new image formed, causing various states of shock from the three interlopers.

"What is that?" Botan whispered, gawking in disbelief at the sight that met her view.

Hiei stepped forward, craning his neck back at the massive wall of pulsating and glowing blue brick that stretched out infinitely before them. "A problem."

Botan studied the barrier, sensing the energy source dancing in rapid succession within the entirety of the wall. "This energy... it's..."

"Your mother's," Hiei finished, his eyes full of puzzlement as he stared at the wall. "So is this defensive barrier her's?"

"No," Shigure chimed in, drawing Botan and Hiei's attention over to him. "The energy is hers, but this type of construction can only be achieved by someone with a great deal of psychic ability." The doctor studied the wall intently, his deep timbre becoming softer and distant. "And this pattern... the pulsation is continuing at regular intervals."

"Pattern?" Hiei scoffed, his lips set in a thin line as he regarded the taller male with skeptical eyes. "All I see are rapid blinking lights going all over the place."

"I'm a doctor," Shigure quipped. "It's my job to find what others cannot. And if I'm correct, this wall is actually tied to the synapses in the limbic system of the patient's brain."

Hiei frowned. "And how is that helpful?"

"Because that's where memories are processed and stored, particularly long term memories," Shigure answered with a raised eyebrow as he peered down at the fire youkai. "For a telepath, you're woefully lacking in the working of the mind."

Hiei made a face at the insult but swallowed the desire to lash out in return, jaw tightening as he growled, "What's your point?"

Shigure sighed. "My point is that whoever created this defensive shield tied it to the patient's own energy source. Any overt attempt to force through the wall will result in this woman's death."

Botan paled at the thought of losing her mother. "There must be something we can do to bring down the wall without killing her."

"There is," Shigure confirmed, turning to face the ferry girl. "Your ki will be familiar to your mother. Even if she cannot consciously react to it, her mind will," He tilted his head to the side when Botan looked away from him, sensing her sudden worry. "I know healing Youko taxed your ki, which is why I am a bit hesitant to ask this of you, but I believe this is the correct course of action. If we can open up the pathway to your mother's memories, we can rid her mind of the foreign influence that has kept her prisoner all these years."

The ferry girl shifted her gaze to study the wall as she processed his words. He was right. Her healing ki had been reduced by half. Any additional or taxing use of it could drain her to the point she passed out. But if I don't do something to help my mother, she won't ever wake up. Botan straightened her shoulders and swung her gaze back to the youkai physician. "I agree. Let's do this."

Shigure flashed a slight smile at her determined expression, silently approving of the female reigen's determined expression. "Let's begin then."

Botan gave a nod and together they stepped forward, coming to a stop within arm's reach of the wall. Blue lights danced across their somber faces and the ferry girl's voice grew hesitant. "I'm not sure I know what to do... how do we go about this?"

The doctor heard the uncertainty in her words, his own reassuring as he answered, "Place your hand on the wall and concentrate on the energy within the barrier then slowly merge your own into it."

"Then what?"

Shigure studied the defensive shield with cautious eyes. "Then we will tap into the pattern and reverse the process, thereby eliminating the barrier and allowing us access to your mother's full abilities."

"And you're sure this will work?"

"Theoretically, yes. I've never attempted to breach a defensive wall this complex before. But we have little choice now," He lifted his hand slowly, his fingertips nearly touching the surface of the shield as he asked, "Ready?"

Uncertainty filled Botan once more but she mimicked Shigure, her hand shaking though she tried to force down the fear blooming in her heart. "Yes."

"On my signal... one, two, three."

They touched the wall at the same time on the third count and Botan gasped at the current that traveled up her arm. The energy made the hair on the back of her head stand on end and part of her wanted to yank her hand away from the unpleasant sensation but she held her ground. I must do this... no matter what... I have to help my mother... I must help her.

Shigure felt a more powerful current of energy than the ferry girl but had better control of his body and shut down the pain receptors in his arm. "Ready?"

Botan swallowed the lump forming in her throat. "Ready."

"Let's begin."

The ferry girl released her energy slowly into the barrier, seeking out the tendrils of ki that belonged to her mother while the doctor sought out the pattern by sense, using mental surgery to divert the synapses back into the proper direction.

Hiei's expression was stern as he watched the pair work. He kept a cautious distance away, ready to counter any attack that could possible come from tampering with the barrier. And yet at first, nothing seemed to happen and the fire youkai thought the plan a failure. He was about to proceed with a plan of his own when the wall suddenly grew brighter in intensity, causing him to shield his eyes with his right hand as a blinding flash filled the darkened space around them. The light faded as quickly as it had formed and Hiei lowered his hand back to his side, eyebrows shooting up at the sight now before him.

The once pulsating bricks of light broke apart in both directions like falling dominoes, disintegrating into the void until no bricks remained.

Free of the constraints that kept Mizuki's memories locked up, images began to form, flashing by at breakneck speed. Hiei reached out with his mind and focused his will, searching rapidly for the scene that would provide the breakthrough they needed.

Botan stared in fascination at the images flying by before her eyes. It was like watching the story of a person's life with the button to a remote stuck on fast forward and the thought of having to witness her mother being hurt or abused began to gnaw at her heart. What if she couldn't take it?The swirling vibrancy of color suddenly stopped, revealing the frozen frame of Mizuki being restrained by two SDF officers. Her eyes were locked, her features twisted in anguish and her arm... her hand was reaching out... reaching out for... Botan shifted her gaze to the other half of the scene, finding her child self in the clutches of another SDF officer that she didn't recognize. This is... This...

The scene came to life, playing in real time and she caught sight of movement behind her mother. It was a man. And though the lack of hair threw her off, his face was all too familiar to her. Daichi? A sudden flare of pain exploded in her skull and she gasped,legs buckling as she collapsed onto her knees.

Shigure frowned and reacted instinctively, reaching out to try to help her, his hand going still as Hiei shouted,

"Stop!"

The doctor flashed a look of disapproval as he turned to study Hiei. "She needs help."

"I agree but it is not our help she needs," Hiei countered, looking back down to Botan. "I broke the shield blocking the ferry girl's memory. She's experiencing it simultaneously with Mizuki. This is the only way to reveal the truth... for them both."

Mama! Botan's child self cried in the shared memory, reaching out for her mother as she was dragged away. Desperation gave her strength as she fought against the hands gripping tight around her arms, eyes brimming with tears as she witnessed Daichi whisper something into her mother's ear and her heart sank as Mizuki grew still and ceased to struggle. Mama! She screamed at the top of her lungs, trying to wake up her now dormant and complaint mother Mama please hear me! Please help me! They're taking me away! Mama!

Shigure and Hiei watched in varying levels of curiosity as the memory played out, backing away as the scene suddenly vanished. A flash of light blinded them and they shielded their eyes from the intensity, slowly lowering their arms as the flash faded. The two youkai sensed a specific reiki at the same time and they turned in the direction of the energy, staring in awe at what they saw.

"I don't believe it," Shigure's deep timbre rumbled as he studied the tall and lithe form of Mizuki walk towards the ferry girl. "Botan has reached Mizuki's consciousness."

Mizuki ignored the two men and crouched down in front of the weeping form of Botan. She called out softly to her daughter, voice light and ethereal, "Mitsuko... stop... It's alright... It's alright now. The nightmare is over. It can't hurt you anymore... so open your eyes."

The ferry girl was drawn to the present by the sound of her mother's voice and her eyelids fluttered open. She found herself being pulled forward, into her mother's arms and she clung tightly to her, returning the hug and cried anew.

Shigure flashed a small smile at the reunion while Hiei looked away, feeling uncomfortable at the display of maternal affection, both giving a start of surprise as they felt themselves pulled out of the psychic link. They opened their eyes and surveyed their surroundings, their gazes falling on the same scene they had just witnessed inside Mizuki's mind.

"You're here... You're here... you remember me..." Botan sobbed, tears of joy streaming down her face as Mizuki held her.

"Of course I remember you, Mitsuko... you are my firstborn... my daughter..."

"Mother!"

Mizuki shifted her gaze at the sound of her son's voice and she shifted her left arm, motioning him closer. "Yoichi..."

The teen rushed into his mom's outstretched arm, snuggling into her side, his left arm wrapping around Botan as the ferry girl moved and embraced him with her right.

Shigure and Hiei retreated quietly, exiting the room to give the reunited family some privacy and the fire youkai shifted his gaze to his left, quirking an eyebrow at the sight of Koenma sitting in a nearby chair. The youkai doctor excused himself, the sound of metal clanging as he pivoted and walked down the hall, leaving the fire demon and the reikai prince alone.

"Didn't want to get in on the family reunion, I take it?" The fire demon quipped as the prince rose up and approached.

"I'll talk to everyone soon enough," Junior replied, coming to a stop before the smaller man. "Right now the most pressing issue revolves around capturing my father."

Hiei smirked. "Ah... and I suppose you want me to take care of daddy for you, is that it?"

Koenma shot a glare down at the smaller man. "That's not what I meant."

"Your mind says otherwise." The youkai countered, unperturbed.

The prince felt his blood pressure rising and he parted his lips, about to reply when a new voice joined the conversation.

"Still learning how to play nice, I see, Hiei."

Koenma lifted his gaze at the same time the fire demon turned around, the pair spotting Kurama now standing before them.

"Up already?" Hiei quipped. "Seems the ferry girl's healing powers are growing rather impressive."

"Botan, Hiei," Kurama corrected, playing their old game before returning his attention to the prince. "And unless I miss my guess, Koenma here was about to provide us with the coordinates of Enma's last known location."

"And you didn't even need telepathy for that," Koenma murmured, impressed at the kitsune's deductive reasoning. "You really are the smartest detective I've ever had under my employ."

Kurama kept his features neutral at the compliment. "Live long enough and you learn how to get the answers you seek without much effort."

Hiei caught the sidelong glance the kitsune tossed his way and made a face, crossing his arms as he sounded out, "Hn..."

Kurama returned his attention back to his old boss. "So where exactly is Enma's hideout?"

Koenma reached into his tuxedo jacket, drawing out a folded piece of paper. "These are the directions Yoichi supplied. I was going to ask Hiei if he were interested in investigating it but now that you're awake, it might be best to give this to you."

The redhead took the outstretched paper, unfolding it to read. "Yes... that was very close to where I ran into Yoichi for the first time."

Koenma blinked. "You've met Yoichi before?"

"It's a long story," Kurama replied, tucking the paper into the pocket of his jeans. "And one I promise to tell later. But for now I think it's time we pay Enma a visit, don't you, Hiei?"

The fire demon shrugged. "I'll need to ask Mukuro first, but it should be no problem. But what about your ferry girl? Don't you want to kiss her goodbye or whatever human ritual it is you two engage in?"

Kurama sighed inwardly at the snark, his gaze shifting to stare through the small glass window in the center of the door that led to Mizuki's room. Within he caught sight of Botan, Yoichi, and their mother still hugging and crying and he slowly turned away. "No... she needs time with her family. We can talk later." A mask of reserve seized hold of the kitsune's face, a hard edge creeping into his voice as the redhead added, "My business right now is with the bastard who took Botan."

"And I have a way to expedite the process," Koenma said, calling out in a more authoritative voice. "Otake, Saito."

The captain of the SDF and his lieutenant appeared in a flash, materializing to the left of the prince who turned to address them,

"Are you two ready?"

"Yes, sir." The two men answered.

"Good." Koenma shifted his gaze back to to the two youkai. "My men will take you to the coordinates listed on the map."

"Why would we need the help of the SDF?" Hiei asked. "They'll only get in the way."

"Because you're going to need reiki to open the way," Otake explained. "And we can get you in and out quickly."

Hiei's eyes narrowed. "How?"

"By teleportation."

The fire demon quirked an eyebrow, looking over and up at Kurama who murmured,

"Of course."

"What are you mumbling about?" Hiei asked with slight impatience in his voice.

"It's transport by contact," the kitsune replied, his gaze focused on the two officers. "By touching them, we become part of their field of space manipulation which will allow us to move from one place to another instantly."

"You have the gist of it," Otake confirmed. "Simply touch our shoulder and we can proceed with our mission."

Kurama stepped forward, reaching out to rest his hand on Otake's shoulder.

Hiei made a face. He closed his eyes, relaying a telepathic message to Mukuro who approved his plan then opened his eyes once more. He stalked forward, mimicking Kurama as he lifted his arm to lay his hand upon Saito's shoulder.

Koenma studied his men as he called out, "Be careful and good luck."

The group nodded then vanished in a flash of light, leaving the prince alone in the hall. Koenma returned his attention to the door that led into Mizuki's room and he steeled himself before entering. He felt Mizuki's gaze on him almost instantly and he went still, unsure how his aunt would react to his presence.

"Koenma... is that really you?"

"It's me, Aunt Mizuki," The prince replied. "I am happy that you remember me."

"Remember..." Mizuki whispered, her eyes becoming a bit unfocused. "I remember everything now..." She blinked, clearing her vision as she asked, "My sister... where is she? Is she alright?"

"Mother is fine..." Koenma assured. "Worried over you and of Botan."

"Botan?"

"The name I go by now," The ferry girl answered. "It's the name Koenma gave me when I became a ferry girl."

"A ferry girl?" Mizuki murmured, turning her gaze back to her daughter. "Enma made you a ferry girl?"

"My father did many things... things you may be unaware of... and things you already know." Koenma interjected then began the long process of explaining the events that had led up to Mizuki and Botan being rescued.

Mizuki listened patiently, shaking her head as her nephew finished. "What Enma has done... he cannot be allowed to get away with it."

"He won't, I promise you." Koenma replied. "I've sent Kurama and Hiei along with my strongest SDF officers to capture him and bring him to justice."

Botan frowned. "Kurama's awake already? But he can't be at full strength yet! What if he dies fighting him.. what if..."

Mizuki studied her daughter with curious and concerned eyes at the fear she could hear in the ferry girl's voice, shifting her gaze over to Koenma who countered in a surprisingly soft tone,

"You won't lose him, Botan. My father doesn't have the strength to face him. Especially with Hiei, Otake, and Saito at his side. He'll return to you, so do not worry so much."

"How can I not worry?!" The ferry girl cried. "I nearly lost him today! To my own energy no less! He needs to rest not go out fighting your battles for you!"

Koenma looked away, not arguing, while Botan crossed her arms and lowered hers.

"I'm sorry... I shouldn't... I shouldn't be like this... it's just... I'm afraid of losing him... That... that I'll never see him again..."

"There is no need to apologize," Koenma said softly. "I know you're afraid, but I promise you Kurama will come back to you. He always does."

"You're right," Botan whispered. "I'm just worried, that's all."

"Mitsuko?"

Botan turned to her mother who asked,

"Who is Kurama?"

"Kurama is... well... he's my... um... significant other..."

"You mean your husband?" Mizuki asked in open curiosity.

Botan blushed darkly, stammering. "N...no... I mean not yet... his human form is only 17 years old."

"Human form?"

The ferry girl bit her lip, worry growing in her heart at how her mother would take her relationship with a demon. "Kurama is a youkai who merged with a human fetus and was born as Shuichi Minamino. His true name is Youko Kurama."

"Youko... Kurama?" Mizuki murmured. "You mean the great bandit thief of Makai? That's who you're involved with?"

"Kurama isn't the same person he was before, Aunt Mizuki," Koenma said, drawing the older reigen's attention to him. "He's a good man, a good friend, and a hell of a good spirit detective. He's moved heaven and earth to find Botan. He's risked his life for everyone without thought of himself. And he loves Botan. No man would go through what Kurama did if he didn't love and care for her."

"It's true, mother," Yoichi chimed in. "Kurama saved me that day on the river. He didn't stop to ask who I was and he didn't hesitate to help me. And even when he knew what I was, he didn't hurt me. He saved me," The teen paused, voice growing in conviction. "Father was wrong, mother. He was wrong about everything. Not all youkai are bad."

"Satoru thought as you did," Mizuki whispered. "He wanted to make peace with Makai. He believed in the good of people, no matter what realm they came from." She turned to Botan. "Do not be afraid, Mitsuko. I have no intention of interfering with your relationship. But I do want to meet him and speak to him myself. Will that be alright?"

Botan felt relief at her mother's response and nodded. "Of course. I'm sure he'll want to meet you as well. Just as soon as he returns."

"Hopefully with my father in tow." Koenma added, looking out the window of the door, hoping against hope that the kitsune and the others would be able to put an end to his father's misdeeds.

In a forest near the Haiyai River

A flash of light burst in a heavily wooded area of dense forest growth, the forms of Kurama, Hiei, Otake, and Saito materializing instantly and the group visually scanned their surroundings.

"Check the coordinates." Otake ordered as he swept his gaze slowly in front of him.

Saito did as instructed, typing in the coordinates on his topographical scanner, a holographic image shooting upward, revealing a massive bunker. "It's right below our feet, sir. But I don't have confirmation on the tree."

Wrinkles marred Hiei's forehead. "Tree? What tree?"

"The tree that will allow us entrance to the underground base." Otake answered in a distracted voice. His gaze fell upon a moss covered monstrosity of a tree and he felt the slight pull. He strode forward with cautious steps, brushing the long, thick tendrils of plant matter, revealing a wide trunk and he inspected it closely.

"Do you think this is the one, sir?" Saito asked as he came to a stop to the right of his captain.

"Only one way to find out." Otake lifted his right arm and opened his hand. He placed his palm against the rough, gray bark then closed his eyes and concentrated his will. Blue light flickered then grew around his hand, the ki drawn into the tree and the ground began to rumble and he backed away, frowning as the tree itself began to glow, faster and faster. No... it's a... He felt something wrap tightly around his waist, pulling him away just as the tree exploded outward. Otake landed hard onto his backside, Saito following and the pair of SDF officers stared up to find the two youkai standing before them. The two reigens gaped in stunned silence as debris bounced harmlessly off the barrier enacted around them.

"Are you alright, sir?" Saito asked.

"Yes... I think so..." Otake confirmed, blinking as he felt a slithering sensation and he looked down to find a green vine releasing its hold around his chest. He looked up at Kurama with grateful eyes. "How did you know the tree was booby trapped?"

"I didn't," Kurama admitted, calling back the second vine from Saito. "but there was an odd sound coming from the tree as it began to glow and I suspected it was rigged so I pulled you and your officer away before it could do any damage to you."

Otake rose to his feet. "Then I am in your debt."

"I may collect on that debt at some point but for now, our concern is getting down to the bunker, though I suspect our prey is long gone."

"Do you think he was tipped off?" Hiei asked, lowering his hand as the barrier inactivated.

"I think he knew he was doomed the moment he realized Botan and Yoichi were gone and he fled before we could get to him," Kurama clenched his jaw, glaring down at the ground. "Enma is turning out to be quite adept at escape. It's rather... annoying."

Despite the situation, Hiei found amusement at the kitsune's agitation but he held his tongue. "Your ferry girl will still be in danger as long as that man is running around free."

"I know... which is why steps have to be taken to ensure her protection... and that of her family."

"Koenma has a plan." Otake said, drawing the group's attention back to him.

"I'll be glad to hear it when I return to the arena." Kurama replied, his expression serious as he added, "We need to inform him of what happened here. From there you can decide your next course of action."

Otake nodded then looked over to his lieutenant. "Call for back up. I want this area cordoned off and a full unit working to get us into the bunker. Even if Enma is gone, there may be some clues that will lead us to his whereabouts. I'll return after I've reported to the prince."

"Yes, sir."

The captain looked back to the two youkai. "Shall we?"

Kurama and Hiei nodded then rested their hands on Otake's shoulders and the trio disappeared, reappearing in a flash back inside the hospital ward of the arena.

Koenma exited Mizuki's room and addressed the captain. "Report."

"There was a problem, sir," Otake began. "the tree that allowed access to the bunker was rigged to explode upon use of reiki. Kurama pulled me out of danger before it could do any damage but now we have no way of entering the base without surveying and studying its design."

"But you plan on doing just that, don't you, Otake?"

"Yes, sir. Saito's at work on it right now."

"Then you may join him."

Otake gave a chest salute. "Yes, sir."

Koenma ignored the flash of light as the captain vanished, turning his attention back on Kurama and Hiei who turned and began to walk away.

"Where are you off to?" Kurama asked.

Hiei stopped and answered. "Mukuro's match is up and I need to be there for it."

"To cheer her on, I assume." Kurama teased.

Hiei scoffed. "Don't be ridiculous. I merely want to observe her battle strategy so I can exploit it the next time we battle."

"You're a horrible liar, Hiei. You know that don't you?"

"Hmph..." The fire demon sounded but didn't deny it as he walked out the exit door that led to the outside of the stadium.

"Strange man." Koenma murmured.

The corner of Kurama's lips turned up. "No more stranger than I am."

"Hmm.. perhaps..." Koenma replied then changed the subject. "Botan is rather anxious to see you."

He felt his heart flutter a bit at the thought of seeing his beloved again. "As am I." Without prompt or invitation, Kurama stepped forward and slowly pushed open the door to Mizuki's room. He felt three sets of eyes on him but his own eyes were drawn to Botan. He could see the tender love reflected in her eyes, a love that chased away the kitsune's normal mask of reserve, his expression morphing into a mask of adoration and joy. "Botan..."

His voice was light and air to her, beautiful and full of a longing that Botan shared and she felt pulled to him then, her knees shaking even as she moved towards him. "Kurama."

The redhead moved towards Botan, meeting her in the middle, his breath as shaky as hers as they collapsed into each others arms.

Botan clung to Kurama, tears of happiness brimming in her eyes. "You're alright... you came back to me."

"I'll always come back to you, Botan." Kurama whispered, keeping his hold on her, even as he pulled back, crooking his neck to rest his forehead against hers.

A soft clearing of a throat drew their attention and the pair turned their heads to find Mizuki studying them with keen interest.

"So this is the man I've heard so many good things about?"

Kurama slowly withdrew from Botan, twining his fingers with the ferry girl's when she took his hand and led him forward.

"Mother this is Kurama," Botan began looking from her mother back to her lover. "Kurama, this is my mother, Mizuki."

The kitsune gave a long bow of his head. "It is a pleasure to finally meet you."

Mizuki returned the gesture. "Likewise." She scrutinized his face, finding him rather beautiful, though his eyes were old... so very old... older than even herself and she tilted her head, voice soft and non threatening. "Mitsuko was right. You are a youkai trapped in a human body."

"It is more of a merger than anything else," Kurama gently corrected. "My soul may be a youkai's but my body is human."

"Fascinating. I've never heard of such a thing before. How did that come to be?"

"It is... complicated," Kurama admitted. "but if you are willing to listen, I am willing to tell the story."

Mizuki made a motion for the kitsune to sit down and Kurama reluctantly loosened his hold from Botan's hand and took the chair situated opposite of the hospital bed. He sat down slowly, smiling inwardly as his beloved pulled a nearby chair closer then joined him. The redhead relayed the history of events that led up to his current situation, leaving nothing back and he watched with curious eyes at the various expressions that flashed across Mizuki's face.

The blonde reigen listened intently to every word of the man before her, taking in his story, understanding lighting up her face when he'd finished. "You love your human mother very much, don't you, Kurama?"

"I do," He admitted without hesitation. "It is because of her I am the man I am today."

A tender smile tugged at her lips. "I believe you. Mitsuko is lucky to have you in her life," She caught the furrowed brow upon her daughter's forehead and explained in a soft tone. "A man who loves his mother and treats her well, will treat his future wife in the same manner. With tenderness and kindness."

"Then you don't object to our being together?" Botan asked.

"Why would I?" Mizuki countered. "I would have to be blind, deaf, and dumb not to see and feel how much Kurama cares and loves you... and how much you love and care about him."

Kurama reached over to take Botan's hand in his own, giving it a gentle squeeze as he regarded her in open fondness.

"But there is still the matter of her safety," Koenma said with concern, drawing everyone's attention to him. "And the safety of you and Yoichi as well."

"True," Mizuki replied as she studied her nephew. "So what is your plan to rectify the situation?"

Koenma was impressed with her reasoning but kept his features somber as answered. "Take you and Yoichi to your parents home in Karu."

"Home..." Mizuki whispered fondly. "I've been away for so long now. I can still remember the smell of the lilies in the height of summer as they swirled atop the lake in the water garden."

"Water garden?" Yoichi asked.

"The palace of Kiniro has many gardens related to the elements of nature," Mizuki answered, beaming at her son. "You'll find it's beauty nearly unmatched anywhere else in Reikai."

He perked up at this new information. "Really? What else is in Reikai?"

The boy's curiosity was nothing new to Mizuki and she reached out to pat his hand. "In good time, Yoichi. I'll tell you more about it on the way there."

"So you plan to return to Spirit World?" Botan asked.

Mizuki caught the girl's pensive look. "Are you not also planning to return to Spirit World, Botan?"

The use of her chosen name was startling at first though inside she was happy to hear it at last. "I am, but... I... I can't stay forever."

"You don't have to," Mizuki countered. "But I would like to spend some time with you before you return to Ningenkai."

Botan looked over to the kitsune who gave her a reassuring smile. "You should go with your mother. You have a lot of catching up to do."

"But what about you?" Botan countered, studying her lover with worried eyes. "I don't want to leave you alone."

"Then I guess I'll have to come with you." Kurama replied. "At least for a day or two."

"But what about your mother... your family?"

"I'm not due to return home for a week yet, Botan," The kitsune explained. "Besides, I would like to see these gardens for myself. They sound rather intriguing." And in doing so, keep you safe from any attempts Enma might make to capture you again.

September 15th, 1994 Karu Palace Forest Garden

Kurama stared up at the pinpoints of light that dominated the sky above the forest garden. A light breeze rolled through and the kitsune closed his eyes, becoming lost in the soothing sound of rustling leaves.

"The stars are beautiful tonight."

Her voice was a tender whisper, delighting his ear and his expression shifted, becoming softer and a warm smile tugged at his lips. He opened his eyes, turning to find Botan's gaze locked on the twinkling starlight above. "They are... but not as beautiful as you."

"Flatterer..." She replied, flashing a grin as she looked back in his direction.

"It's not flattery when it's the truth," He reached out to pull her to him. Kurama buried his nose into Botan's hair and inhaled deeply, his voice a soft sigh. "I have missed this... holding you... having you close... It's been a long time... too long..."

The ferry girl wrapped her arms around the redhead's waist, her head moving to rest on his shoulder. She closed her eyes, drawn to the warmth and strength of her lover's body, her voice carrying the same soft sigh. "I've missed it too. I've missed you. I wish I could show you how much but.."

Kurama understood what was left unsaid, stroking her back gently as he spoke, "We will have time for that later, I know. You're here with me now. That's good enough for me."

Botan opened her eyes and smiled, pulling back to look up at him. "You're a wonderful man, do you know that?"

Kurama's features turned playful, voice matching as he replied, "You say that now... wait till you have to live with me for more than a month..."

His playful manner was always her favorite and she followed suit, quirking an eyebrow. "You could say the same of me..."

A grin spread across his face. "Cheeky... I like it..." He pulled back, taking Botan's hand, leading her over to a nearby bench.

"So tell me," Kurama began, shifting to sit down on the bench, watching as Botan followed suit, "how did the family reunion go?"

"Exceedingly well," she answered. "lots of tears, and crying, and joy, and laughter." Her tone shifted, becoming sadder. "Mother and Yoichi have missed out on a lot... my aunt and grandparents as well... It will take some time but the healing has already begun."

"I am glad that your family is back together."

"As am I... though my father..."

Kurama nodded, catching the pained tone in her voice, his own soft and his touch reassuring as he wrapped his arm around her shoulders. "It was wrong what happened to him. If I could bring him back to life for you I would do so."

She tilted her head to rest on his shoulder. "I know you would," she whispered. "But all the wishing in the world can't bring a soul that was wiped out back into existence."

They said nothing more for a moment, a somber mood filling the air.

"So how long will you stay here?" Kurama asked, breaking the silence.

"For a while yet. A month or two. Perhaps longer." She answered, then added, "After that... I will head to the Gate of Judgment."

"Do you intend on returning to your duties?"

"No. After all that's happened, it wouldn't be safe," She answered. "Something I'm sure you agree with."

"I do. But it is not my place to make decisions for you. That role is entirely your own."

"Even if it was a bad decision?"

Kurama smiled. "Oh, I would try to talk you out of it, using my charms and dashing looks for good measure but if that was truly what you wanted I would support you in doing it."

"Even though, it would be a dangerous risk?"

"Even then...because I know... that the light within you could protect you... If you could learn to harness it properly."

"Against a demon perhaps, but Enma and his minions aren't youkai." She whispered.

"True... that's why I'd probably shadow you on assignments... to keep you safe..."

"How creepily romantic." She quipped.

"All part of my charm." He replied dryly.

"True," she said with a soft laugh before lifting her head to look up at the night sky. "It's always so peaceful here and the view of the stars is breathtaking, isn't?"

"It is," he admitted, lifting his gaze to follow hers. "I find this realm fascinating. We shall have to explore your world together at some later date."

"That would be fun to do. Perhaps after we get married?"

He shifted his gaze over to her. "That is some ways off yet, Botan, but it would be a rather nice honeymoon, I agree. Hopefully by then, Enma will be found and put in prison where he belongs."

"One can only hope," she murmured, turning her head to study him. "When will you return home?"

"That eager to get rid of me?" He teased.

She tsked. "You know what I meant."

He smiled. "I do," he replied, voice turning softer, more respectful. "I think after I meet your family and spend a few days properly around them then I will go, though I am loathe to leave you."

"You know you could have met them today, Kurama."

He shook his head slightly. "It would not have been right. Today was your day with your family. Tomorrow can be ours with them."

She smiled softly at him, tilting her head to rest against his shoulder once more. The pair relaxing in the silence of night, gazing at the stars until they had to part for the night.

December 18, 1994 Gate of Judgment

"So that's it then?" Koenma began, lowering the paper in his hand as he shifted his gaze slower over to Otake who stood in front of the spirit lord's desk. "Norio and Mayumi pled guilty to the charges?"

"Yes, sire," Otake confirmed. "The evidence presented to the judge was overwhelmingly in favor of the prosecution so their lawyer advised the plea in exchange for a more lenient sentence."

"Which was?"

"Permanent loss of their status without jail time."

Koenma quirked an eyebrow then dropped the paper onto his desk. "I thought they'd fight the charges. After all their family has ruled Matsu and the north for a 1000 years. Giving up power would be hard, especially for Norio, stubborn ass that he is."

"Perhaps they saw the error of their ways?"

Koenma snorted. "I doubt it. Though Mayumi seemed regretful enough. No... it's more likely that there's some fine print added to the plea deal that is not visible to the public eye."

Otake tilted his head. "So... something to do with Matsu's royal structure then?"

The prince nodded, smiling at the SDF captain's reasoning skills. "That's my best guess. It would be better if it became a more democratic system but such a radical change in power cannot happen overnight without chaos and upheaval. We'll have to wait and see how the court approaches that particular chestnut."

"Lord Koenma, sir!"

The prince snapped his head at the sound of George's voice, irritating marring his features as watched the blue oni come barreling into the room. "What is it now, Ogre?"

"Botan's on her way here, sir! She just landed in the courtyard and..."

Koenma cut him off. "Well don't just stand there you, blue ninny! Escort her in!"

"That won't be necessary."

The three males turned their gazes in unison at the sound of a female's voice, Koemna rising from his seat, his agitated features morphing instantly into a happy expression as he exclaimed, "Botan! It's good to see you again!"

The ferry girl returned the prince's smile, her own voice its usual bubbly self. "It's good to see you too, Koenma." She stepped forward as her cousin beckoned then stopped in front of the desk as she watched the prince lower himself back into his seat.

"How's the family?"

"Doing well. It was wonderful spending time with my mother and my brother. Aunt Kasumi plans on visiting you, soon. Yoichi as well."

Koenma gave a look of delighted surprise. "I look forward to seeing them." He replied, studying his former head ferry girl with curious eyes. "So what can I do for you today, Botan? Have you come to visit or to stay?"

Botan drew in a breath then let it out slowly, "I've come to say goodbye."

A knowing look spread across the prince's face. "Ah... so you're leaving for Ningenkai," he murmured. "Is Kurama aware of this?"

"No,I wanted it to be a surprise."

"I'm sure he'll like that," Koenma replied ruefully. " Well, you'll need an escort then," he paused and looked over at Otake. "Captain, I want you to form a small contingent of officers to escort Botan to human world. Make sure to suppress your ki. Don't want to tip off Kurama and ruin Botan's surprise."

"As you order, sir." Otake replied with a nod before vanishing from view.

The prince returned his attention towards his cousin. "Is there anything else you need, Botan?"

"I'd like to take a few things from my room if that's alright?"

"Of course it is. We can always pack of the rest of your things and have them delivered to you when you're ready for it."

"That would be helpful." Botan replied then added, "I'd also like to say goodbye to the girls before I leave."

Koenma smiled softly. " I'm sure they'd like that. They'll miss you and... I will miss you as well."

"I'm not going away forever. I'll come back and visit often."

"I'm glad to hear that, Botan." The prince replied then lowered his gaze to the pile of paperwork to his right, grabbing the top one to read, voice a bit more business-like. "Before you leave, please come back and see me. There is something I'd like to give you."

Curiosity seized hold of her face but she didn't ask him to elaborate, instead she headed through the side door, following the lit corridor that led to the interior courtyard of the palace grounds. The vibrant pink petals of the cherry blossom tree continued to bloom and the ferry girl smiled and stopped in front of the trunk. She reached out, gently pressing her palm against the brown bark, feeling the pulse of life and the intricate weave of Kurama's ki within the wood. Soon, love. Just wait a bit longer and I'll be with you.

Withdrawing her hand, Botan walked through the now floral courtyard and into the female dormitory. It was here she said her many goodbyes, hugging her friends and tearing up as the girls wished her happiness and good fortune in her new life. She wished them the same before turning and ambling up the winding staircase to the fourth floor. Botan entered her room, going to her closet to remove two suitcases. She lay them on her bed and opened them, going through her belongings to decide what to take and what to leave for later. Once packed, she shut the cases and lifted them off the bed. They were rather heavy but she managed, walking slowly towards the door before she stopped and looked around one last time. A sense of sadness seeped into her heart and her shoulders slumped. She would miss her old life. But I have a new life now. And a new family to make. Thoughts of her future with Kurama in Ningenkai chased away the malaise and she straightened her back, pivoting around to exit the room.

She returned to Koenma's office, finding a group of five SDF officers waiting for her and in front of them, her cousin. The ferry girl stepped towards the prince, her eyes drawn to the black velvet pouch

clutched in his right hand. A spark of memory hit her and shock lit up her face. "Is that what I think it is?"

Koenma nodded, holding the bag out for her to take.

Botan lowered the twin suitcases onto the marbled floor, gingerly taking the pouch from the prince's outstretched hand. She tugged at the opening, the drawstrings stretching, allowing her to see inside. They were all there. The jewels from her time in Karu. "I thought I'd lost them." She whispered, looking up as her cousin spoke.

"Otake found them in your room after your abduction. I had them in safekeeping until such time as I could give them back to you," Koenma began. "They should help you in your new life. At least financially..." His voice cut off when Botan suddenly surged forward to embrace him.

"Thank you... for everything... I'll never forget what you've done for me."

He blinked but returned the hug, patting her back gently. "Yes, well... You're welcome."

Botan pulled back and away, giving her cousin some space, listening as he spoke,

"Now then... do you have everything you need?"

"I do."

"Then I wish you a safe journey and a happy future with Kurama."

Botan nodded, stuffing the pouch into her jean pocket before grabbing her suitcases and shuffling over to the SDF officers.

"Ready?" Otake asked as he reached out to rest his hand on her right shoulder.

"Ready." Botan replied, clenching her eyes shut as a bright flash of light exploded in her line of vision and the group vanished from the room, reappearing instantly upon the sidewalk of an area she knew all too well. She smiled, thanking the officers for their help, then made her way to the front door and proceeded to open it.

December 18, 1994 Minamino Residence

Botan found the home unoccupied, save for one and she smiled as she silently closed the door behind her. The insistent sounds of an electric guitar filled the air, the chords matching the intense emotion of Kurama's voice as he sang. She recognized it as a form of belting, the pangs of desperation and melancholy mixed with desire and need were palpable and she found herself closing her eyes to focus on his words.

Tell me baby, do you want me?!

I gotta know, I gotta know!

Do you want me?!

Can I tell you a story?!

I said, beautiful one!

Whoa!

Whoa, sometimes you lose!

Let me tell you, baby!

Sometimes!

Whoa!

Sometimes!

Sometimes you win!

Yes you do!

Listen here,

I said, sometimes!

Sometimes!

I get so confused!

Yes I do

But right now, right now!

I know what I want!

I want you!

Whoa!

Baby, baby, baby, listen to me!

I may not know where I'm going, baby!

Whoa!

I may not know what I need!

One thing, one thing's for certain, baby!

I know what I want, yeah!

And if it please you, baby

Please you, baby

I'm begging down on my knees!

Cause I want you!

Yeah, I want you!

Baby, baby, baby, baby!

I want you!

Whoa!

Yes I do!

Kurama's voice faded and the air grew silent once more. Botan opened her eyes, her heart and body affected by the song and she wondered if he could sense that from her. She drew in a breath, letting it out slowly as she climbed the stairs, quiet as a mouse, before stopping before the open doorway of her lover's room.

Kurama's back was towards her, not moving and she noted the headphones strapped around the sides of his head. Could he even hear her? She wondered, jumping reflexively when he suddenly spoke,

"Hello, Botan."

Botan pouted, standing still as she glared at the kitsune, irritated that her surprise was ruined. "How did you know I was here? I hid my ki completely."

"I know your scent, love. My nose never fails." He replied, swiveling the chair around to face her.

Botan continued to pout, though her voice was curious as she asked, "That song you sang just now, I've never heard it before. Who wrote it?"

"An American by the name of Prince," Kurama answered as he slid the headphones off his head then laid them absently onto the top of his desk. He rose, holding onto his fender guitar as he moved to place it on the nearby standing rack. "A rather gifted man in both song writing and guitar playing. At least in my opinion anyway." He turned back to face her, asking, "Did you like the song?"

Botan nodded, lowering the suitcases in the hallway before entering the room. "Very much so. It seemed very intimate and vulnerable... but also melancholy and desperate. I could hear the passion in your voice and it... affected me."

Kurama quirked an eyebrow. "Did it? My singing or the words?"

"Both," she confessed, blushing a bit at the tone in his voice. "I've never heard you sing like that before and I... I rather liked it."

"Not an easy thing to do, I assure you," he admitted, moving closer to her. "It can put an enormous strain on the vocal chords."

"Then why sing it that way?"

"Because this particular song called for it." he answered. "To reach the desired affect of the song you have to let your emotions rule your voice, therefore revealing your heart and your desires to the object of your affection." He stopped less from a foot from her then reached out, pulling her gently to him.

Botan went as she was pulled, wrapping her arms around his waist before resting her head against his shoulder. His body was warm, solid, and welcoming. "I missed you." She whispered, closing her eyes as he stroked her back.

"I've missed you, too." He replied softly, nuzzling her hair in response to her stroking his back. Slowly he pulled back, his eyes catching sight of the luggage out in the hallway. "Looks like you plan on staying a while."

She shifted her gaze upward, her eyes meeting his as he returned his attention to her. "As long as you'll have me."

Kurama reached up to cup her face. "I'll take you anyway I can get you, love."

"Anyway you can get me, hmm?" She asked, her tone teasing and breathy as she watched his face move closer to hers.

"Mmm hmm..." He murmured and leaned forward, his lips descending upon hers.

Botan returned the slow kiss, her hands wrapping around her lover's waist, her body coming alive at the simple affection, parting her lips as she felt his hands shift to trail down to her hips.

Kurama claimed her mouth, reveling in the taste and feel of her, blinking when his hand brushed up against something in the ferry girl's pocket and he broke off the kiss, studying her in open curiosity. "What do you have there, Botan?"

She groaned in frustration when he broke apart, her eyes shifting down to her jean pocket and she reluctantly pulled back and away from him, reaching into the pocket to pull out the black pouch. "Our future." She replied, holding up the bag for him to take.

Kurama quirked an eyebrow but took the bag gently, tugging apart the drawstring to peer inside before dumping a few of the contents into his free hand. Blue, green, and white jewels in various sizes and shapes met his gaze and he inspected them intently. His eye for treasure was just as sharp now as when he was a mere thief and he had no doubt that the baubles were real. His head snapped back up at her in shock. "Where did you find these?"

"On the shoreline of a lake in Karu," She answered then asked, "Why? Do you not think they're real?"

"Oh they're real, alright. And priceless. The jewels in this bag could be worth millions."

She beamed at him and nodded, well aware of how valuable such a treasure was in Ningenkai. "As I said, they are for our future."

He smiled softly at her, returning the jewels into the bag and then tightened the drawstrings, moving to lay the pouch onto the desk then turned to face her when she spoke.

"It will help your family, too."

"They are your jewels to do as you see fit, Botan. The choice on how to use them are also yours to do as you wish."

"And if I choose to use them so we can get married?"

His heart fluttered at the thought of taking her as his wife, she was his future, of that there was no doubt and the treasure she had brought with her would alleviate any financial burden they would face, being married so young... well... in human years anyway. "Then we will be married, love. But I should at least graduate from high school first. It's something my mother has prided me on doing."

"I don't mind waiting, Kurama, I adore your mother and your family..." Her voice died off in sudden realization and she asked, "Just where is your family anyway?"

"A family outing for Christmas shopping."

"Why didn't you go with them?"

"Because I already bought presents."

She narrowed her eyes as she studied the grin on his face. "You knew I was coming today, didn't you?"

He flashed a brief smirk at her playful glare. "I may have had a bit of information regarding your return."

Her lips twisted into a pout. "I wanted to surprise you."

He laughed softly then moved over to her, pulling her to him as he whispered. "Does it matter, love? You're home and I'm so very happy to see you."

Botan went as she was pulled, her pout transforming into a slight smile. "It is good to be home."

"How shall we celebrate your homecoming, hmm?" Kurama asked, eyes flashing as the ferry girl trailed her hands up his chest to the collar of his shirt and replied,

"I've got a few ideas."

He grinned then laughed softly as the Botan gently kicked the door closed with the back of her foot and tugged him down into bed and the pair made up for lost time.

June 15th, 1996- Saitama Prefecture, near Nagatoro

The first rays of morning light filtered through the thick milky white material of a large greenhouse, bringing warmth to alternating rows of closed blue and red rose bushes that lined the entirety of the building's interior. A small hand reached out and the nearby flowers began to respond, their delicate petals slowly opening and a series of happy cooing sounds erupted into the air.

"The flowers love you already, little one." Kurama sang gently to the silver haired child in his arms, a paternal smile lighting up his features as the baby looked up at him with bright amethyst eyes and let out a baby giggle.

"I should have known you two would be in here!"

Kurama turned around at the female voice, the slightly exasperated tone not lost on him and he flashed an apologetic smile, watching as Botan weaved through the rows of flowers. He started forward, meeting her partway as he replied, "Rhaella woke up early so I decided to take her out to greet the flowers."

"Test her powers you mean." Botan countered gamely, reaching out as the baby did, pulling her gently from of Kurama's arms. Rhaella patted Botan's cheeks with her tiny hands, giggling at the nuzzle of her mother's nose against her own.

"She did that on her own," Kurama replied softly, reaching out to wrap his right arm around his wife's shoulders before leaning in to give her a kiss on the cheek then whispered in her ear. "Is everything ready for today?"

Botan smiled at the simple display of affection, her own voice softening as she answered. "Yes. Your mother should be here shortly."

"We best head back to the house then, hmm?"

Botan nodded, pivoting around to exit the way she came, Kurama close behind. They walked the gravel pathway that cut a curving swath through a lush garden of trees, plants, and flowers before widening into an open courtyard, the sound of rushing water filtering in the air as a waterfall cascaded down a natural rock wall before flowing out into a massive pond. They crossed over the arched ornamental bridge that connected the garden to a tea house then ambled up then along the wooden deck that connected three other buildings of various sizes before stopping at the twin doors of the central and largest building on the estate. The warm brown and cream tones were used to emphasize the aesthetically pleasing ambiance of Japanese architecture but with modern constructed materials for maximum comfort and climate control. And it's home. Kurama thought with a wistful smile before glancing at Botan and Rhaella. Our home.

A gradual crunching sound grew louder, the familiar rumble of a car engine drawing the kitsune's attention to his left and he watched as the vehicle slowed then came to a stop. The noise died a second later and the driver's side door opened, a lone figure dressed in dark blue slacks and a cream shirt emerged from the car, revealing the familiar features of Kurama's mother now visible and the older human female beamed at her family and waved.

"Good morning, everyone!" Shiori greeted as she ambled her way up to the first step of the deck, eyes twinkling as Botan stepped down then handed Rhaella off to her. "And how is my little granddaughter, hmm? Looking cute as ever! Yes you are!"

Rhaella giggled at the attention, patting her grandmother's face much as she had Botan's earlier.

"We're doing fine, mother," Kurama answered, turning to watch his wife excuse herself and exit into the main house. "How was your trip?"

"It went rather smoothly," she replied, hugging Rhaella as she looked up at her son. "But I've never had a bad trip on the way here before... so..." She paused for a second before asking, "Is your friend coming back today?"

"Yes," he replied softly. "Botan is most anxious to see him again."

"And you're not?"

He chuckled. "I admit, I'm rather curious to see how much he's grown. And he is my friend as well, so it will be good visit with him again. We have some things to discuss."

Shiori quirked an eyebrow, about to ask what her son meant when Botan returned with a purple shoulder bag slung over her right shoulder. "Thank you for doing this for us, Shiori, I know it was rather short notice but we weren't certain of the day and we got the called late last night and..."

"Botan, it's quite alright. I love babysitting, Rhaella. Besides, Kazuya and Suichi went on their annual father-son camping trip so I'm free to do as I want." She lightly bounced and rubbed Rhaella's back, adding, "When will you two be back?"

"Most likely this evening," Kurama answered, leaning forward to kiss his mother's cheek then the top of Rhaella's head. "We'll call you once we're finished visiting."

"If there's anything you need or it's an emergency we have the contact number by the fridge but I'm sure everything will be fine." Botan said, kissing her child on the cheek. "Be a good girl for your grandma, okay?"

Rhaella cooed in response, resting her head on Shiori's shoulder.

"I'm sure she will be," the human female replied then shifted her attention to her grandchild. " We're going to have a lot of fun, aren't we, Rhaella."

Kurama and Botan watched Shiori enter the house, turning as a black taxi pulled up and they strolled forward, opening the door and sliding into the back seat together. The car backed up then turned around and headed to the Nagatoro station. The pair collected their tickets then boarded the train that would take them to the place where Yusuke left: Genkai's.

June 15th, 1996 Genkai's compound

Kurama and Botan walked side by side along the pathway that led to the steps of Genkai's Temple. The happy chirping of birds blending with the soft sighs of the wind as it swirled through the trees that lined the property. The pair spied three familiar faces waving to them and they smiled, returning the greeting, picking up the pace a bit until they reached them.

"Hey guys!" Kuwabara called out enthusiastically. "Glad to see you could make it!"

"Not like it was going to be a big surprise." Shizuru commented, smirking a bit at the sour look her brother threw at her.

"So no, Rhaella this time, huh?" Keiko asked with some disappointment.

"She's spending quality time with her grandmother."

"You sure that's a good idea, Kurama?" Kuwabara asked. "What with the threat of Enma and all."

"Believe me, Kuwabara, the house is well protected should any entity attempt to do harm to my loved ones on property."

"I bet," the younger boy said with a chuckle then looked around. "So the shrimp couldn't make it?"

"Hiei's patrolling the the Eastern quadrant of Makai, making sure any humans that wander into that territory are returned unharmed. Perhaps the next time we gather together, he'll be able to join us."

"Maybe," the street fighter murmured, shifting his gaze over to Shizuru who spoke.

"Well, we best get started. Don't want to keep Genkai waiting."

The group nodded, beginning the long climb up to the gate entrance, Kurama and Kuwabara each pushing aside one of the massive wooden doors, revealing a quiet and rather empty courtyard. The soft taps of a bamboo water fountain echoed in the air. The group entered and surveyed the grounds.

"Awfully quiet around here." Kuwabara said. "But I like it."

"You would," Shizuru quipped. "Your girlfriend lives here after all."

As if on cue, one of the side doors slid open and Yukina stepped out, red eyes twinkling as she smiled at them. "Hey guys! You've finally made it!"

Kuwabara's features instantly brightened. "Yukina!" He cried, racing up to her.

"Hello Kazuma," she greeted shyly before adding. "Hello everyone. Genkai's waiting at the main temple. Shall we go?"

They nodded, Kuwabara chatting idly with the ice youkai as they removed their shoes and stepped up onto the deck. It was a short trip into the main hall and they entered to find Genkai standing in the center of the room.

"You're late," the elderly woman greeted in her usual gruff manner.

"Our apologies," Kurama replied with a bow of his head. "But we are here now and eager to listen to what you wish to tell us."

"Hmph..." Genkai sounded, though a smile played at her lips. "Have a seat then. We have much to discuss."

The group did as they were told, turning their gazes at the sudden flash of light that erupted then dissipated.

Botan was the first to react. "Koenma!"

"Hey, Botan. Long time no see," Junior replied with a small wave. "How's Rhaella?"

"She's doing good. I hope to bring her up to visit soon."

"I look forward to that." The spirit lord turned to Kurama, giving a nod of his head which the kitsune returned.

"That'll be all for now, Otake. I'll call you when I'm ready to head back."

The captain of the SDF saluted then vanished, leaving the rest of the group to talk to Genkai.

Junior took a seat to the side and waited, listening as the human psychic began to speak.

"I'm sure you're all wondering what it is I wanted to talk to you before we waited for Yusuke's return. These recent years have left me wondering about the future of my legacy. So I want to tell you my wishes for this place when I die." She paused, noting the saddened features of everyone.

"Uh, Genkai, you shouldn't talk like that." Kuwabara started.

"It brings bad luck." Shizuru added.

"You've got a lot of years ahead of you." Keiko said

Botan and Kurama closed their eyes, experience with the reality of death allowing them to understand Genkai better than the younger humans.

The elderly woman sighed. Children. She grumbled silent as she rose, moving over to slide open the shoji door. She peered up at still blue sky, gathering her thoughts before continuing. "After you throw me a teary-eyed funeral, I will be leaving this estate to your group. That includes this temple and all surrounding land. A shore on one side and a stone wall on the other will tell you where it ends. I request that you leave the forest and land undisturbed. It takes several hours by car to reach the nearest town so this isn't a convenient place for humans to live but is is however, a perfect place for youkai to reside in."

She paused to catch her breath than began once more. "With the kekkai barrier down, youkai will continue to interact with humans." Her brow furrowed and she lowered her gaze, her voice growing softer. "I spent my life trying to understand a demon. Make this place a safe house for youkai to bridge the gap as I never could."

"We will honor your wishes, Master Genkai." Kurama stated for the group.

"Good." She replied then turned to face them once more. "Well, now that the sappy crap is out of the way, how about we head down to the shoreline. Yusuke should be arriving any time now."

The group walked together at a leisurely pace, allowing Genkai to lead the way. It took a good 20 minutes before they reached the outcropping of a sandy hill. The salty smell of the sea permeated the air and their ears picked up the hungry cry of seagulls and the crashing of waves against a rock less beach. The sun was beginning to set, coloring the sky a brilliant shade of red.

Kurama, Botan and Shizuru sat near a rather large pile of driftwood, watching as Keiko, Yukina, and Kuwabara ran through the shallow water on the edge of the shoreline.

"It will be dark soon," Kurama began. "And Yusuke should have been here by now."

Botan frowned. "What is taking him so long? Doesn't he know how badly Keiko misses him?"

"I'm sure he does," the kitsune murmured, eyebrows shooting up as Keiko suddenly yelled out,

"I'm tired of waiting for you, Yusuke! Do you hear me! Three years! Three Years! I'm done!"

A silence presses around the group, various shades of sadness flashing across their faces only to be replaced by shock as another voice called out,

"Well hello to you too, Keiko!"

They turn, watching as Yusuke strolled along the sand, making his way towards his girlfriend. He stopped a few feet from her, his voice softening. "Hey... I..." His eyes widen as Keiko suddenly lunged at him. She tackled him to the ground the dived in, her lips pressing against his in a drawn out kiss.

When they break apart and a smirk blooms on Yusuke's face. "Now that's the kind of greeting I'm talking about."

Keiko rolls her eyes but smiles, untangling herself from him before rising. "You're such a pervert..."

"Hey, you're the one who kissed me, remember?" He quipped, getting to his feet.

"Yeah, well, what can I say, I missed you," she replied, eyeing him fondly.

He matched her look before lifting his gaze at the charging form of Kuwabara. "Hey big guy, did you miss me, too?!"

"Hell yeah, I did, but I'm not gonna kiss you like Keiko did so forget it."

Yusuke snorted. "Yeah, not gonna lie, I'd have to knock you out if you tried that." His eyes shifted past the orange haired teen, finding the older group hanging back by some driftwood. "I see the rest of the gang is here, too."

"Yeah, we all came to see you, Urameshi."

"That's sweet and all but I feel like I'm out of the loop. Care to fill me in on what's going on?" He jumped at the sudden voice of Genkai behind him.

"Come back to the temple and we'll tell you."

He whirled around and glared down at her. "What the hell, grandma? You get a kick scaring the crap out of people?"

"Only the dumb ass ones," she replied with a smirk that dropped a second later, her voice more commanding. "Let's go slacker. We haven't go all night."

Yusuke sighed but grabbed his bag, slinging it over his shoulder. "Lead the way."

The trek back is full of banter between Yusuke and Kuwabara with the occasional conversation between Keiko and the older beings, sans Genkai, hang back, letting the youth have their day. Night has seized hold of the sky, stars the only celestial light to guide their way but soon they're back in the temple and Yusuke is given the same information as before.

"Well, I'll respect your wishes of course. But are you sure that's what you want to do? There's a lot of youkai that want to do harm to Ningenkai."

"Yeah, but they have to follow the rules, right? And Enki won this time. He won't let anything happen to the people here." Kuwabara stated as he studied his friend.

"Yeah, this time," Yusuke replied, looking over at Kurama. "There's no guarantee that the winner of the next tournament will abide by the same rules."

"That's why we must always stay focused and ready," Kurama chimed in. "so that a malevolent youkai can never win and lay destruction to this world."

Yusuke nodded, taking note at the rings he saw on the redhead and Botan's fingers. "Did you two get hitched already?"

The kitsune blinked. "I hardly think that's a relevant discussion right now."

"It is to me. I've been out of the loop for two years remember? So tell me what else I've missed."

And so the dark haired teen was told everything and by the end of it, a serious look crossed his face. "So you're telling me, Enma still hasn't been found?"

"That's correct," Koenma replied. "I've sent my men out far and wide in every dimension and there's no trace of him anywhere."

"I know it doesn't make much sense," Junior conceded. "But much like the underground bunker he had in Makai, where ever he's hiding has the same ability to mask energy."

"He won't stay idle forever," Kurama murmured, drawing everyone's attention to him. "He needed Botan's energy for a reason. We know it can obliterate youkai. But what else is it possible of doing?"

"I'm right here you know," Botan chided softly, drawing an apologetic look from her husband.

"Sorry," he replied then asked, "Do you have any idea what else your ki could be used for, love?"

Botan's features turned thoughtful. "I don't really know. Maybe to... power something?"

Kurama's eyes flashed with pride. "That's a good possibility, Botan."

"Yeah, but if that's the case, what would Enma be trying to power up?" Kuwabara asked.

"A good question," Kurama conceded. "I wish I had an answer. We may not know until he reveals himself. For now we have to remain vigilant and hope we can counter whatever he has in store for us and this world."

June 15th, 1996 ?

Enma stalked down the darkened corridor, a low hum reverberating around the metallic hallway. He never questioned Daichi's methods for securing what was needed, nor the ease in which he was able to accomplish so much with so little material. But he always wondered and worried. The SDF officer was loyal, following the king's commands without question. But was loyalty his true motivation?

He came to a stop before before a gray colored door and lifted his hand, placing his palm upon the green scanner. Within seconds the door slid sideways and he entered. Brown eyes tried to adjust to the darkened room, drawn to the faint white light emanating in the center. A glass pod was spread horizontally and he crept forward. A body was visible within the pod, the face all too familiar to him. "Nuada," he murmured, turning at the sound of footsteps, his gaze falling upon the approaching form of Daichi and he addressed his subordinate in a commanding tone. "What is his current status?"

"Still holding, my lord," Daichi replied. "I am working on trying to replicate the energy we harvested from Mitsuko but it's slow work. Satoru's energy has kept him in alive and in stasis for this long but he'll need more to fully realize his potential."

Enma scowled. "We don't have the resources or ability to recapture Mitsuko. We will have to make due for now."

"And when he awakens, my lord?"

An ominous tone seized hold of the former king's voice. "We let Nuada feed." He reached out, resting his hand on the glass, a superior grin tugging at his lips. And take back what is ours... brother.

There you have it. The story is complete. I know it's taken a long time to finish this but the death of my mother right after my last update caused me to suffer massive depression and writer's block. There will be a sequel to this but I cannot say when that will be. I have so many other stories to complete. Still, I want to thank everyone who read this story. It's been fun. See you in the next one!