Poetry Update

Christian

By Emily Stephen

Yes, I am a Christian

That doesn't mean I don't fall

This pedestal you put me on

        Calling me a "good person"

        Saying I have it together

It's a rickety structure

On which I am precariously perched.

I'm a sinner too

I think bad thoughts too

I judge sometimes

I hold a grudge sometimes

I hate...

I need a Savior

Christianity is not some crutch

          That I need to stand tall

          Looking down my nose at those

         Who don't measure up

God is my Father

The one I run to

Crying, "Daddy, daddy!"

When I fall and scrape my knee

Or in most cases when I feel

I've fallen off a cliff

And broken all my bones

The joy of the Lord is my STRENGTH

Even when it doesn't seem there

Is any joy to be found

He is my HELP and my SHIELD

Even when I feel my anxiety is crushing me

He pulled my sould out of the depths

He said, "This one."

And I am confounded as to why

He would want me

This broken, wretched sinner

Who fails to remember to trust

But is still upheld in your right hand

Who fails to remember to respect

But is still counted as most precious

Who fails to remember who I am

But is still told in the faintest but sweetest whisper

"You are my beloved daughter. I know your name!"

Working Title Epilogue

Epilogue

Raiden's Log

It has been three years since the great calamity that befell my father's team and the Night of the Blood Moon, though it still feels like it was only yesterday. We are slowly building back our forces and have built a new facility to serve as our HQ and training center for new recruits. The boys are looking good, Chason got himself a girlfriend and seems to be mellowing out now thanks to her influence. The twins have become stronger, even surpassing Kohl in their collective powers. Kai has taken over the task of training the new recruits and taking them out on field missions from time to time to sharpen their skills. I see the odd mission here and there when I've gotten fed up with administration work and need to get away from the office. Mai is the best companion I could ever ask for, and has blessed me with a set of twins. They look just like Hikaro and me when we were little...I named one after my late brother, figured he would get a kick out of that wherever he is. I pay my respects to him every day before I get to work.

Tsuyoshi's been popping up here and there, still very much a lone wolf but he drops the odd hint and helps out with the odd mission here and there. These run ins are becoming more and more frequent and I'm wondering if we're finally winning him over. He may be able to walk in the light with us yet. I'll have to end this log early as it's the twins birthday and I shouldn't keep them waiting. Big surprises and impatient toddlers do not mix well. I hope that wherever you are dad, that you're proud of me. I'll take care of them for as long as I have breath. End Log Entry.

Working Title Finale

((Warning: Many much more feels ahead...proceed with extreme caution))

Hakaija sat in his darkened penthouse, sipping sake and staring out the window. He didn't sense Amaya's presence until his son thudded on the table, causing him to spill his sake and curse in Japanese. “Amaya! I have told you about that! Neither the sake nor my clothing is cheap!” He growled, glaring at her. She regarded him with a cold stare. “It matters naught to me...” She murmured softly ,motioning to Takeru. “Here is your son. How would you like for me to finish this?”

Hakaija sighed again. “Did they find out anything?” He asked, glancing at Amaya. The girl nodded slowly. “They had a very powerful psychic...of which I haven't seen in a millenia. He cut right through your son's defenses and found out your plan. He will most likely try to convince Hikaro of his teams' real motives.” She replied, watching the wheels turning behind Hakaija's cold, calculating expression. He nodded slowly, smirking a little. This was better than he could imagine.

“Go back to Hikaro with this...” He said, handing her a human heart in a box. She accepted it without question and Hakaija smirked. “Let us see how this plays out...just make sure that you guarantee they destroy each other...” He muttered softly.

Amaya nodded as she bowed silently and vanished into the night. Takeru groaned where he lay, looking up at his father questioningly and going pale as he saw the crazed grin on his father's face as he cackled maniacally. What have you done? He thought as he stared up at his father.

The night was crackling with energy as Amaya returned to Hikaro's “throne room”. She knew it would end here...she could feel it. She took a deep breath as she entered, glancing around to see where her master was. He was standing in an upper window, silhouetted against the moonlight as he stared out into the darkness....waiting. She knew he could feel it too...but he didn't know who's end it would be. She allowed herself a cruel smile as she watched him before he spoke without looking at her and she returned to her impassive expression. “Is it done, kitten?” He said, taunting her. She grit her teeth, closing her eyes and opening them before answering. “It is done...I've brought his heart as proof.” She said, holding out the box.

Hikaro turned and dropped down from the window, hitting the ground without a sound and sauntering over to her. “Good girl...” He purred, grinning softly as he accepted the box and opened it. “Wonderful...I wonder how Hakaija will take it when he hears that his precious heir is dead...maybe I can hang it around my brother's neck and watch Hakaija destroy what's left of his team.” He said, cackling wickedly as he took out the heart and crushed it in his bare hand. Amaya watched quietly. “Maybe we should put an end to this...playing cat and mouse with Raiden only gives him hope that you will somehow come back to him as his brother. Kiss and make up, I believe is the term.” She murmured, watching Hikaro. She had to orchestrate this and stroke his ego just right to get him to the breaking point.

Hikaro smirked softly. “What a silken tongue you have this evening, kitten. Are you that thirsty for blood?” He asked, running his finger down her jawbone and drawing a line of blood with it. Amaya shuddered inwardly, but endured it as she met his eyes. “Maybe. You brought me here for a purpose didn't you? I'm just waiting for the moment to fulfill that purpose.” She purred in response. She had him right where she wanted him.

Hikaro cackled softly as Tsuyoshi materialized out of the darkness behind him, fully mended. “I like your enthusiasm...very well...but since they have seen you and know who you are and what we are planning...they will be coming to us.” He replied, looking out into the darkness then taking his spot on his throne. Amaya and Tsuyoshi took their places, flanking him on either side as they waited. Tsuyoshi had a sick feeling in his gut that something was going to go seriously wrong tonight...he glanced at Amaya but she stayed facing forward so he returned to his position, mulling over the overwhelming dread he felt as he awaited this final showdown between Hikaro and his brother.

Raiden was preparing for facing his brother with his team, Kai talking strategy with him quietly. They had the advantage of numbers, but Hikaro would be expecting them and he had the power of both Tsuyoshi and Amaya. Kohl was very apprehensive of this as a lunar eclipse had been predicted for that night and would give rise to a blood moon...a very bad omen. There would be much bloodshed and heartbreak this night. It would be the end...he was sure of it...but of whom, he did not know. He only prayed that Raiden wouldn't be the one to pay the price.

Raiden saw his friend's troubled expression and sat next to him. “What is it?” He asked. Kohl shook his head. “I fear that we are in for it tonight...it's a blood moon which is a bad omen...there will be more death before the end.” He murmured forbodingly.

Raiden watched Kohl and felt his blood run cold. Kohl was never wrong, but if that was the price they had to pay to end this...then so be it. Raiden nodded quietly, looking up at the sky.

“It's a steep price to pay to end this...” He murmured softly, accepting their fate.

Kohl sighed softly. “It is indeed.”

The night was quiet and not a sound disturbed it or betrayed the passage of Rai and his team as they moved through it swift and sly as foxes. Hikaro was seated on his throne, staring into the darkness as he awaited their arrival. He was a tracker and even though his sanity was long gone, his senses were not dulled so he knew they were coming. He looked up, tilting his chin and smirking.

“You are quite bold, brother...coming through the front door.” He said to the darkness before him. Moments later Raiden materialized in the moonlight, regarding his brother with steely eyes. Hikaro cackled.

“My, my. What is this? Finally given up on me, have you? I warned you that anyone you brought in would suffer the same fate as you...Kurai was no different. You should never have brought him into this and you paid the price for your foolishness.” He taunted, smirking wickedly.

Raiden stiffened, gritting his teeth as he took a step forward and Kohl's hand stopped him as he materialized beside him. Raiden clenched his fists, looking at Kohl in protest then looking in the direction Kohl nodded to as Tsuyoshi and Amaya materialized beside Hikaro. Both were crackling with raw energy and Kohl shivered at the feeling as the rest of Raiden's team stood silent behind him. There was a pregnant pause where Rai's team seemed to all hold their breath like the moment right before you plummeted down the first big drop of a rollercoaster. Hikaro then nodded and his weapons launched themselves at Rai's team. The group dispersed, engaging with their assigned targets as was discussed before. Yoshi, Sijuu, and Mai would take Tsuyoshi. Kohl and Kai would take on Amaya while Rai went to finish this with his brother once and for all.

The battle started out with the clash of metal and rubble crumbling around them as the psychic's sparred. Yoshi and Sijuu used their psychic abilities to try and break away at Tsuyoshi's defenses and counter his telekinetic attacks while Mai used her speed and agility to make quick attacks that kept him off balance so that the twins weren't completely exposed to the raw force of the more experienced psychic's abilities. Amaya was more of a challenge, which was why Kohl had paired with Kai to take her on rather than Kohl going after his rival. Amaya was volatile and unpredictable so it took a cool, calculated counterattack to keep her at bay while Rai was left free to settle his score with his brother. A flash of steel brought Rai's blade to bear, catching the blow from his brother as he leapt from his throne with the speed of a wild cat to slash open his abdomen and spill his guts on the floor. His eyes and grin were wide as he laughed with insane glee at the beginning of their final battle.

“Oh, brother...long have I waited for this night to come. By the light of the full moon did this war begin...and by the light of the full moon it shall end!” He cackled, breaking their sword lock and attacking his brother with such ferocity that it nearly made him fly backwards into the wall.

Raiden held fast however, gritting his teeth and looking for an opening then taking it and lunging at Hikaro to put him on the defensive. It was his brother so he knew his style even when he had lost his mind. He was predictable...always left an opening somewhere and if he could just keep him on the defensive, maybe he could wear him out enough to start being able to talk to him...he had to warn him! He had been betrayed!

Meanwhile, in the darkness behind Hikaro's fortress, Hakaija was waiting with his men for the signal from Amaya for the beginning of the end. He swallowed as he heard the intensity of the fighting from inside and wondered again if he had not indeed unwittingly sold his soul to the devil in making this deal with this woman who had lived longer and seen more than she should. He saw the flash of lightning strike the clouds above as the lunar eclipse began with a sliver of the moon beginning to turn an eerie blood red. The hour of the blood moon would soon be upon them and Hakaija could only hope that Amaya would remember the bargain he had struck with her to spare him and his family before the end as he set his men in position.

“Hikaro!” Rai shouted at his brother as Hikaro's attacks became more erratic and his breathing became ragged and labored from exertion and mania. Hikaro's eyes met Raiden's with a hint of recognition that his brother was looking for. “You've been betrayed by your own team! They still work for Hakaija, they've set you up!” He warned in between blows, warding him off as it became more and more difficult because of how erratic his attacks were becoming. Hikaro shuddered, shaking his head as if to clear it then returning back to his previous state as he continued to attack. “Ha! You lie! You won't fool me that easily! The only one who has betrayed me is you! You're the one who sent me on that mission to die! You wouldn't dare send Mai because you loved her more than me! You brought this on yourself!” He snarled, angry now and drawing new strength from this. Amaya was doing her job well, keeping him deceived and manic so the brothers would destroy each other.

Raiden grit his teeth and snarled in frustration. “Yes, Hikaro! I was wrong to send you alone! Yes, I wanted to protect Mai and she was very upset that I showed such favoritism...Yes, I brought this on myself! But you have to listen to me before it's too late! Hakaija is laying in wait for Amaya's signal, she's going to bring about the end but not for you! It's for him! He struck a deal with her first!” He shouted at him between blows, trying desperately to get through to him. Hikaro roared. “You lie! All you say is lies! You never loved me! You never cared about me like everyone else!” He shouted, catching Raiden off guard and slashing his side. Raiden reeled back, grunting in pain as Hikaro came at him with more force.

Kohl was fighting hard against Amaya with Kai, watching the blood red hue creeping across the moon as they fought. At it's height, Amaya's power would reach it's peak and that would be the end. They had to stop her before then or they were all doomed! The earthquake then came, rocking all involved in fighting to the ground as Amaya's eyes glowed white and purplish lighting struck the clouds above, emanating from her aura. Her raw, volatile aura was intensifying and Kohl was finding it harder and harder to fight back against her. It was like getting too close to the sun or to an active volcano...it was only a matter of time before you got burned.

Kai was the first to fall to the intensity of Amaya's power, crying out and crumpling to the ground as he held his head in agony. Mai and the twins were the next, not even Tsuyoshi being able to stand it as he was very sensitive to her psychic presence. Kohl was left to grapple with her alone as Rai and Hikaro battled on across the fissures opening in the ground and Mt. Fuji threatened to roar to life as Amaya's power began to awaken it with it's intensity. Raiden lost his footing as a fissure opened beneath him and he caught himself just barely with a precarious grip on the edge of the fissure opening to depths of blackness the bottom of which glowed an ominous dull red. Hikaro stared wide-eyed into his brother's frightened eyes. Gone was the manic look behind his eyes and he quickly leapt forward to catch Raiden's arm before he fell and began to pull him to safety.

Amaya saw this and shouted in anger as she felt her control over him slip. “Fool! He betrayed you! You would return to him to be his slave?!”

Hikaro looked at his brother then glared up at her as they stood and nodded defiantly. “Better than the nightmare of being your puppet!” He exclaimed, Hakaija already taking his cue and shooting at Raiden. It all happened so fast, first Raiden was standing beside his brother overjoyed that he was released from Amaya's control; then he had been pushed against a wall by his brother. His hands felt wet, warm and sticky...blood. “Hikaro!” Raiden cried in dismay as his brother coughed up blood and he grit his teeth. He snarled and turned on Hakaija and his men, crying in insane rage as he brought his sword to bear on them like the tooth and claw of a wounded animal.

Raiden watched stunned as Amaya took this chance to attack him while he was distracted...but she wasn't the only one with the idea. No sooner had she shifted her attention from Kohl to Hikaro and Raiden, did Kohl push through the intensity of her aura, gritting his teeth against the pain as he reached her. Amaya's eyes went wide with surprise as Kohl's blade sprouted from her chest and he used that moment of her walls dropping to penetrate her mind and unleash the psychic maelstrom he had been powering up since he had begun his defensive uphill battle against her. She screamed with rage and lashed out at him with fury unmatched but it just fueled his mental attack until neither of them had anything left.

A wave of psychic energy exploded from the both of them as Amaya's psychic aura shattered, Fuji going back to sleep and the fissures in the ground closing up as Tsuyoshi screamed in dismay and ran forward to catch Amaya as she fell. Tsuyoshi choked on a sob as he brushed her hair out of her eyes. “Amaya...stay...stay with me, please...don't go...I don't know what to do without you...please, I beg you! Baka! Why did you do this?!” Amaya looked up at him and smiled peacefully as her eyes began to glaze over. She touched his cheek. “You would never have been free...our love would always have been tainted by the darkness inside of me...” Tsuyoshi shook his head vigorously as he surveyed the damage, tears rolling down his cheeks as he realized he could do nothing. “I don't care! I love you!” Amaya giggled softly, coughing up blood as she wiped his tears away tenderly. “B-baka....” She whispered with her last breath, her eyes fixing as she faded. Tsuyoshi's eyes widened and he shook. “Amaya! Amaya! No, no no no no no! You can't go! You can't leave me alone! Don't go! Stay with me! Please!” He pleaded as he sobbed brokenly while holding her limp and broken body close to him.

Kohl was found on the other side of the ruined fortress beneath some rubble, Yoshi and Sijuu found him and dug him out with Mai's help. He was already dead when they found him and the twins cried out in emotional agony as they held his lifeless broken body between him and begged him to wake up. Kai found his sister and the twins and held Mai close, stoic as his sister sobbed in his arms and the twins kept trying to wake Kohl up even though he knew it was too late. He had gone out the way he had wanted to...protecting his family. But the hardest goodbye was yet to come.

Rai picked his way through the debris, numb and with only one resolve. He had to find his brother...he couldn't lose him again...he had just gotten him back! He thought to call out his name, but couldn't make the syllables form on his tongue so he continued in silence. It wasn't until he saw the body that he finally found his voice. “Hikaro!” He shouted, his voice cracking as he stumbled over to him and fell to his knees beside him.

Hikaro coughed and opened his eyes, looking around dazed before focusing on Raiden and smiling a little. “I...was hoping you would find me...before everything faded away...” He breathed, Raiden smirking shakily. “What are you talking about, bakyaro...you're going to be okay...we'll take you back and get you fixed up good as new...” He said, examining his injuries as Hikaro watched him. Hikaro saw his brother's expression and shook his head. “It's worse than you thought...you won't be able to move me...” He said between labored breaths. Raiden shook his head vigorously, tears forming again. “No! You're going to be okay! You have to be okay! I just got you back, I can't lose you again!” He pleaded, not knowing if it was to Hikaro or to the gods. Hikaro touched his brother's hand. “I know...I just...I just wish I had more time....I lost so...much under her control...I thought I would...have more time...to apologize...” He gasped out, wincing as he fought to stay awake as long as he could. Raiden felt hot tears running down his cheeks as he watched his brother fight a losing battle.

“I wish we had more time too...I don't know what I'll do without you by my side...” He whispered, tears falling on his brother's blood-soaked shirt. Hikaro chuckled softly, coughing up blood. “I would imagine not...but you've been without me there for a while and you're still alive.” He replied. “See?...You don't...need...me...” He managed, smirking weakly as his eyelids became heavy.

Raiden let out a half-hearted laugh that ended in a sob. “B-baka...say hi to mom and dad for me...” He replied. “And...no matter what you say...I'll always need you. You're my best friend.” He added. Hikaro laughed, coughing up more blood and shaking. “H-heck yeah...” He managed, clasping Rai's hand in one last gesture of affection before his eyes fixed and he went limp. Rai stared at his brother's lifeless form, closing his eyes slowly and shaking as he finally succumbed to his grief and wept bitterly as he held his brother close. He kept wishing that they had had more time, wishing that he had been there for all the happiness that he had missed, for his wedding, for the laughs...the joy in between the fighting and death. He wished for the pain to go away...

The small group of friends sat in a huddle in the early morning mist, waiting for their leader to return. Tsuyoshi sat off to the side in front of the mound of freshly turned earth that served as his beloved's final resting place...waiting. Kohl had been buried as well, the twins still clinging to each other and breathing slightly raggedly as one does after weeping. Mai watched for her husband as Kai stood stoically, staring at the grave of his friend and wondering what Rai would have them do with Tsuyoshi.

Rai's silhouette appeared in the fog. He was carrying his brother in his arms, his face tear-stained and expression weary as he approached them. Kai glanced at his friend, meeting him quietly and helping him dig a grave beside Kohl for his brother. No one would ever know what happened that night of the blood moon...and the price that was paid to let Tokyo rest easy another night. Raiden smoothed the dirt over his brother's grave, Kai making the marker and placing it at the head in silence.

Rai sat there quietly for a while, thinking of everything that he had wanted to say to Hikaro when he was alive and no longer could. He felt Mai's hand on his shoulder and he placed his hand on hers, his grieving tears spent for now as he stood and hugged her tightly. Kai nodded to Tsuyoshi and Rai nodded slowly after a while, approaching the boy and feeling the apprehension radiating from him as he met Raiden's gaze. Raiden smiled sadly.

“There has been enough death and sadness already...won't you put your differences aside and join us? Kohl would have wanted it...you have been wandering in darkness for too long.” He said gently, holding out his hand.

Tsuyoshi was taken aback and eyed Rai's hand suspiciously before swallowing hard and looking away. “I cannot accept...the darkness in me has a hold too strong to be easily broken. Maybe someday I may be able to walk in the light as you do...but not for a long while yet...” He murmured, laying a single lotus blossom before the marker of Amaya's grave before standing quietly and leaving as silently as he had arrived.

Raiden watched him go quietly. Is it okay that I let him go? Will he really be okay on his own? He thought as Tsuyoshi disappeared in the mist. Kai rested his hand on Rai's shoulder, nodding. “You did the right thing...who knows...maybe we'll see him again some day.” He murmured. Rai nodded, looking at his second in command. “Let's go home.” And Kai smiled. “Yes, sir.” He replied as he turned with Rai to return home with the others.

Working Title Episode 8 D':

((Warning: there are feels ahead, proceed with caution.))

Takeru sat sullenly and silently in the cell he was placed in after his capture, having said nothing since they had put him there. Raiden watched him quietly from the security monitor that was linked to the camera in his cell. “I wonder how long he's just going to stay there....” He murmrued, Kohl standing beside Rai and glancing at him. “Who knows?” He said, shrugging. “He's a warrior....he won't say anything and his mental defenses are formidable....most likely put in place by Tsuyoshi....” Kohl added, sighing softly as he watched the young man.

Raiden glanced back at Kohl. “Can you break through?” He asked, Kohl shaking his head.

“Not without significant damage....and possibly death....what with how stubborn this one is....” He replied, looking back at Takeshi. “I'm not sure how we'll be able to crack him....maybe...Kurai....”

Raiden immediately shook his head. “No....we've put him in enough danger as it is....we don't need to put him in more danger.” He said, frowning and folding his arms. Kohl sighed softly, resting a hand on Raiden's shoulder. “I think it's up to him to decide....hm? You can't protect him forever....and he doesn't like being treated like a child....” He chided, watching Raiden. The man sighed and nodded.

“I know. I can't help it though. I can't bear the thought of losing someone else close to me....like I lost my brother. Tampering with the mind is a dangerous thing. What if something goes wrong and they're both damaged?” Raiden worried, shaking his head.

Kohl smiled understandingly. Kurai was like a younger brother to Raiden almost as much as Hikaro had been. He felt responsible for the boy just as much as for his brother. He didn't want to risk creating another Hikaro...Kohl rested his other hand on Raiden's shoulder and turned his friend to face him.

“Raiden....I will stand by to make sure that Kurai comes out of this unharmed...Will that ease your mind?” He asked, searching his friend's eyes.

Raiden was silent for a few moments, searching Kohl's eyes as well for peace of mind. He then sighed and nodded. “Yes...at least a little. I'll still be worried....but at least I'll have someone in there to make sure that nothing goes wrong.” He replied, smiling at Kohl. “Thank you...I don't know what I'd do without you, Kohl....you're a good friend.” He murmured, clapping him on the shoulder and smiling gratefully. Kohl smirked a little back. “I know I am.” He teased, chuckling softly as he left the room to go find Kurai and talk to him about their plan.

Meanwhile, Amaya had not gone to carry out Hikaro's orders....but went to her real master, Hakaija. He would not be happy to hear about how his son was imprisoned and that Hikaro had ordered her to kill him. Hakaija was out on the terrace of his penthouse in the city when Amaya materialized in front of him and nearly made him choke to death. “Honestly! Do you want me to die at a young age?!” Hakaija asked, exasperated. Amaya stared at him impassively.

“I have news....bad news, I'm afraid.”

Hakaija huffed.

“I thought as much, you came as the very Angel of Death just now!” He replied, still sore about her startling him.

Amaya's expression didn't change. “Your son has been rash and gotten himself captured by your enemy, Raiden, and his team. Hikaro has ordered me to go and execute him.”

Hakaija's face went red and he jumped to his feet. “What?! That upstart maniac! How dare he sentence my son to death!”

Amaya watched him.

“That's why I've come to you first....what would you like me to do?” She asked, watching her master.

Hakaija sat back down and stewed for a bit, staring at the food as if his stare could make it burst into flame....and Hikaro with it. He was a yakuza boss....his son was important because he was to be his heir and carry on his legacy....he was also all he had left of his dear wife who had perished in one of the nastier gang wars. On the other hand...sparing his son would mean him lying low until things with Hikaro and Raiden came to an end....if it ever did. Hikaro might become suspicious if something else happened. Hakaija sighed slowly, sinking down into his seat. “Rescue my son....bring him here...I'm going to keep him here with me and he's going to keep his head down until you and the others are finished with Raiden. I want you to finish things up quickly....my son is of age so he must succeed me soon...I can't have this nonsense with those twins messing up all my hard work....finish this quickly, Amaya...I grow impatient.” He murmrued, looking tired and upset as he rubbed his eyes.

Amaya bowed respectfully. “So be it.” She murmrued, disappearing once more as Hakaija looked up. “So be it.” He repeated, the words acid on his tongue as he grimaced and wondered what he was doing. Whether in this game of playing with fire, he would be the one ending up getting burned. He shook his head and finished his lunch. He didn't know....time would only tell...

Kurai sat stunned after he heard Kohl's proposal. He took a deep breath, shifting in his seat as he let it sink in. Kohl's hand rested on his gently, it felt warm and Kurai flinched a little as he felt the small spark of psychic energy that he felt from the contact. Kohl was powerful, but Kurai could read him like a book.

“I wouldn't ask this of you if I didn't think you could do it.” Kurai heard Kohl say.

The boy nodded.

“I know.” He paused and took another deep breath. “I just...”

He trailed off, sighing and running his fingers through his hair as he sifted through the thoughts running through Kohl's head. Kohl was letting him so it was no intrusion, and in doing so, Kurai could tell that Kohl really needed his help. Kohl and Raiden were friends...but he knew Raiden would be overprotective, which was probably why the decision was now his to make.

“I'll do it.” Kurai finally said after a long pause.

Kurai heard Kohl's sigh of relief and could feel the tension radiating from Raiden. He turned to where he sensed the tension coming from and smiled.

“It'll be okay. I promise.” Kurai reassured.

The tension lessened a little and finally Raiden sighed and the creaking of wood signified that he had shifted back to standing from leaning against the wall as he spoke.

“Kohl will be there monitoring....I don't want you to push yourself okay?” He replied, his voice filled with concern.

Kurai sighed softly, standing slowly. “Yes, mother.” He teased, grinning a little as he tried to lighten the mood.

He heard Raiden chuckle a little and the tension eased away. The door opened and Kurai listened as Raiden left before following after his friend to where Takeshi was being held. It was a silent procession, but Kurai could hear his friends' footfalls in front of him and behind him. Between that and their collective psychic auras, Kurai kept on track until they arrived at the interrogation room. Kurai could sense the crackling and raw energy emanating from Takeru. The boy was volatile and dangerous...but there was something underlying that seemed even worse than the boy's nature. Kurai would find it out. He stopped both of his friends.

“I need to do this alone.....” He said, Raiden starting to object before Kurai silenced him with a wave of his hand. “I'll be fine. There's a two-way mirror right? If something goes wrong then you will see it and come in to rescue me.” He said, grinning a bit cheekily and showing confidence that he didn't feel at the moment....Kohl would see through it, but he only had to fool Raiden...because he knew Kohl would understand.

Raiden reluctantly agreed with a sigh and let Kurai in, the boy feeling his friend's eyes on him all the way. He sat down across from Takeru and smiled a little. “Good afternoon.” He said, feeling the other's surprise at this display as well as who his interrogator was. The young man snorted. “What is this? Some sort of trick? You think you can do better than your psychic friend?”

Kurai shook his head. “No...I know I can. Because I'm already in.” He said, already sifting through Takeru's subconscious and memories for information. There was a section of pinups and fantasies that Kurai quickly skirted around, making a face and shuddering a little as his cheeks reddened. “Your mind's a mess....” He muttered, Takeru balking and trying to pull away. “Stop it!” He shouted, the sound of the cuffs rattling and the table shaking startling Kurai a little. His concentration was not broken though as he went deeper, ripping apart what futile attempts at blocking his invasion Takeru threw up. He finally made it to the core of what they wanted to know and his face quickly turned to horror. “It's all a trap!” He hissed. “They're all working for...” He then sensed another presence, volatile and disruptive....Tsuyoshi?....No... Kurai went white. “Oh God no....” He breathed, then his mind exploded and he screamed and fell to the floor holding his head. The wall then exploded and he heard Raiden and Kohl shouting something before everything faded away and he was alone in his own personal darkness.

It all happened so fast! Raiden and Kohl had barely any time to react as Kurai screamed and fell to the ground convulsing and the wall exploded inward to reveal Amaya. “Hello, boys. Don't mind me, I just came to pick up a few things.” She said, throwing Takeru over her shoulder. Raiden went to rush her and Kohl stopped him. “No!” He said, Raiden snarling at his friend. “I'm not letting her go!” He shouted as Amaya smirked and turned to leave. “Your friend is wise....don't try anything. It's futile anyway....the end of this game is fast approaching...if you wish to survive...the information your friend has found is more important than my defeat.” She said cryptically, and then she was gone. Kohl stared at the spot where she had been standing. It was almost like she had never been there. He then heard Raiden shouting at him to help him, his friend's voice cracking in desperation and distress as he worked to move the rocks away from Kurai's prostrate form. Kohl turned, feeling like he was made of lead. He realized what was happening....this was all a plot of Hakaija's....and Amaya was the crux of all of it. They were just pawns in his master plan...even Hikaro...it was so obvious! Why hadn't he seen it before?! Raiden's shouts and pleading soon snapped him back to reality. He used his telekinesis to remove the rocks from Kurai's body, flinching at the damage that was done to both the boy's body and mind. They might not even be able to save him.... “Raiden...” He breathed as he watched his friend cradle the boy in his arms. “Raiden, I...” He didn't know how to tell him. Kurai coughed and opened his eyes. “R-rai....q-quick...you have to listen....” The boy choked out, blood trickling down his chin out of the corner of his mouth. He was fading fast and there was nothing Kohl could do but watch... Raiden smiled a little and nodded shakily. “I-I'm right here Kurai, you're gonna be okay. I'm listening.” He said, the boy gripping Raiden's hand. “I-it's all....a trap...A-Amaya....she's the crux...w-warn Hikaro....H-hakaija....using him...” Kurai was struggling to breathe as he coughed up more blood. Raiden panicked. “We need to get you to a hospital!” He said, starting to get up. Kurai shook his head. “N-no!...T-too late...for me....listen! I-I beg you!” He begged, tears in his eyes. Raiden had tears in his own. “No! It's not too late! You can't die!” He objected, Kurai shaking his head. “P-please....n-no time....p-p-please....” He gasped out. Rai bit his lip hard and nodded. “O-okay...” He breathed. Kurai swallowed. “H-hakaija...wants you to...d-d-destroy....e-each other...c-c-can't happen....Amaya....m-must st-st-stop her....” Raiden nodded. “I-I will....I promise....” Kurai clung to Raiden.

“R-Rai...” The boy whispered.

“Yeah, kiddo?” He breathed.

“I-I'm scared...”

Raiden saw Kurai's tears and he swallowed against the lump in his throat.

“I-I know kiddo...don't be okay? I'm not gonna leave you....I told you I'd be right there til the end....”

Kurai swallowed and smiled a little.

“Thank you, Rai....” He whispered as his breathing and heart beat slowed. “You're...the best...friend....a blind kid....could ever....have....” He whispered, his last breath coming in a shuddering sigh as he slipped away.

Kohl watched all this, feeling numb all over as he watched his friend fall apart once again....Raiden held Kurai tightly and sobbed brokenly. It was like Hikaro all over again....Kohl couldn't stand it....this had to end...but Kohl knew it wouldn't....not yet....he leaned heavily against the wall behind him, covering his eyes with his hand as he too succumbed to the pain and sadness of this moment. The others where there in a moment and Mae was by Rai's side, soon holding him and sobbing with him. Yoshi and Siiju stood in the background, stunned and quiet as they beheld the scene, neither of them knowing how to process all of this. Kurai's brother fell to his knees, begging it not to be so and cursing and lamenting loudly in French....it was the only way he knew how to cope. Chason was sullen and silent and Kai stood with the twins, glancing at Kohl as the man pulled himself together and met the eyes of the second-in-command. Kai knew in an instant what had happened and why. No more words needed to be said....Kurai's death would not be in vain.

Working Title Episode 7

(And now the moment you've all been waiting for! :D The long awaited episode 7!)

Hikaro stood alone…on a balcony in the abandoned palace they occupied. He watched the clouds cover the moon….then the moonlight stream through after the clouds passed. The memories flooded in, his brother, Mae…they were on a mission together…

“We all know that Hikaro is the best tracker.” Raiden said, laughing as he watched Mae try to beat him. She failed every time and finally gave up, sighing. “I give up…I’ll never be good as Hikaro.”

Hikaro came up, laughing. “Don’t worry. With practice you could probably even be better than me. You’ve got great instincts, Mae. You just need to hone them and temper them and not let your emotions get in the way.” He said, grinning and sitting down to partake of the noontime meal. Rai smiled softly, kissing Mae’s cheek gently. “Listen to Hikaro. He’s right. He makes a great teacher too.” He murmured, eating quietly with his teammates. “Today’s bust is gonna be a big one…so we need to be on our game…and I’ll need you and Hikaro to work together on this.”

Mae glanced up. She wasn’t sure that she would be much help and voiced her concerns but Raiden wouldn’t hear of it because he wanted her to learn from experience with Hikaro close by…That’s when it went south. A mole had leaked information about the bust to the gang that they were raiding…no one was expecting what happened next.

Hikaro lead the way to the gangs hide out and told everyone to split into their initial groups….he would scout ahead. He treaded lightly like a cat as he slipped through the halls to where the boss would be…but when he got there the place was deserted…

“…The heck?!” Hikaro growled, too late hearing the faint click that signaled the trap being sprung.

Raiden had heard the explosion and came running, shouting Hikaro’s name and finding him lying in a pool of his own blood and screaming in agony. His days in the hospital were a nightmare and he had to be restrained as he attacked even his own teammates when they came close. Then the day came when he attacked and destroyed his own team…and attacked his brother.

“So, Raiden.” Hikaro said, walking up to his brother, grabbing him by his shirt and slamming him against the wall.

“How does it feel to know that I’ve betrayed not only you or the team, but our family as well?”

Raiden just glared silently, not wanting to dignify his inquiry with a heated reply. Hikaro tasted bile in the back of his mouth, throwing Raiden against the opposite wall. He hated how arrogant his brother was…it made him sick, he just wanted to take that defiant and beautiful face and smash it in the dirt. These were his thoughts as he watched his brother crumple to the ground. Brushing his hair out of his eyes and walking over to where his brother lay gasping for air, he grabbed his brother by his black mane and slammed his head into the ground. Raiden struggled, but his brother was too strong. Hikaro leaned down and spoke in Raiden’s ear.

“The best part is, brother,” he hissed. “You watched it all happen and could do nothing.”

The alleyway was filled with Hikaro’s eerie laughter as his crazed visage met Raiden’s baleful glare. Hikaro wanted so badly to kill his brother in this moment that it caused an ache in his chest. But no…he would make him suffer…he would show him the same pain and agony that he felt when he was betrayed by his team and sent to be devoured by the flames of defeat. Even after he had slashed Raiden across the face he stood there, shouting at him in a crazed rage and kicking him and screaming at him and spitting on him. It took all of his men to get him away from Raiden before he actually did kill him.

Hikaro’s hand was over his eye as a crazed cackle came out of his mouth, his uncovered eye wide as he laughed hysterically at the memories though tears were streaming down his cheeks. Amaya looked in the direction of the laughter and went back to tending to Tsuyoshi’s injuries. Hikaro was a ticking time bomb…unpredictable…it wouldn’t be long before his mind was completely lost and he became a crazed beast….unless it had already happened and they were just kidding themselves. She knew the others were after him for raw power…but you could only play with fire so long before you were burned.

Tsuyoshi grit his teeth. “I lost to him again…” He growled under his breath, Amaya glancing at him and sighing.

“Have you ever considered learning from him? Instead of your rival he could be your teacher…” She murmured softly.

Tsuyoshi spat.

“I’ll die before I take orders from him!”

Amaya rubbed her eyes. “That may very well be the case…I’m not always going to be around to protect you…” She murmured softly, biting her lip.

Tsuyoshi stiffened, his heart racing. What did she mean?! He didn’t need her help but…something about her words were disconcerting…Of course she would be around…she had always been there…why wouldn’t she be?!

Amaya sensed his distress and sighed softly, touching his forehead to calm him. “I can’t stay here…Day by day I lose myself more and more. Soon it will happen again…my powers will rise up and destroy this place…destroy you…I can’t let that happen…I have to go.” She murmured, gasping and startling when Tsuyoshi gripped her hand on his forehead.

“No…you can’t go…you can’t leave me!” Tsuyoshi said in a small, frightened voice. She was the only one who understood him....who he could talk to freely.....the only one who cared....why would she leave him?! Didn't she know how much he needed her?! His distress had him contradicting himself now and Amaya saw this. She bit her lip as she looked down at him. “Tsuyoshi.....you can't cling to me forever....” She breathed.

Tsuyoshi shook his head immediately, not wanting to hear it. The words that came next were completely contrary to the front he always tried to put up to shut others out... “I won't make it a day without you! I...I'll lose myself....my powers are too unstable....and I get so unfocused....I...”

Suddenly, Hikaro was in the window, smirking at the two. “Aw, isn't that touching.” He purred dangerously, dropping down silently from his perch and grinning like the Chesire cat that he was. “Sorry to interrupt this lovely little lover's quarrel....but I need to borrow Amaya for a few moments, Tsuyoshi.” He said, smirking at the boy and cackling at the glare he received. Tsuyoshi was always so fun to toy with, the boy was so volatile.

Amaya nodded at her commander's request and left the room, feeling Tsuyoshi's eyes on her the whole way out. She knew what he wasn't telling her because he was afraid of showing weakness....he loved her....but she couldn't allow that to continue....she was dangerous.

Hikaro led her out to the throne room and sat down in his chair, lounging and smirking. “You know why I've brought you here....” He murmrued, smirking as he watched her. Amaya nodded. “Takeshi....” She murmrued, figuring he wanted her to rescue him before he talked.

Hikaro cackled, knowing what she was thinking. “I want you to kill him.” He said, laying back and looking up at the ceiling as he sat in the chair sideways with his legs over what was left of the arm rest. Amaya stood before him, shocked. “But....why? He's one of our best fighters!” She protested, Hikaro cutting her off. “But he got caught now, didn't he? Some fighter....I could have taken Raiden out myself...”

“But you didn't because he's your brother and deep down you know you can't bring yourself to kill him....you're still soft....” She snarled, cutting Hikaro off.

The man tensed and Amaya braced herself, gasping as he flew from his chair and backhanded her across the face and sent her flying. She collided with the wall and sank to the floor, gasping for breath as she got the wind knocked out of her from the impact. Hikaro then went over and grabbed her by the hair, Amaya meeting his eyes in open defiance. Hikaro cackled. “Little girls should learn to mind their elders.....otherwise they might get hurt.” Amaya smirked and laughed bitterly.

“Sound advice....” S he spat.

Hikaro laughed and watched Amaya shudder at the sound of it. The laugh of unchecked insanity. He then let her go and went back to lounge in his chair. “Now go....and don't fail me like Takeshi did...or you won't be the only one who suffers.” He said, smirking as she knew what he meant.

Amaya stood slowly, brushing herself off and nodding as her face showed no emotion. “It will be done, master....” S he replied, with only a hint of bitterness in her voice as she disappeared into the night. Hikaro watched her go. “Going to have to break that one....she's too wild....” He mused to himself, grinning wickedly at the thought of what sport that would be.

Working Title Episode 6

Tsuyoshi felt the sudden shift of power as Rai moved to the offensive.  He had been sitting in the tree and waiting for almost an hour now.  He checked his watch and muttered, “Come on, Takeru.” He checked all of Rai’s teammates minds to see if they had heard the commotion yet.  Still clear, but it wouldn’t be that way for long.  He was scanning the premises when he chanced upon a consciousness that was obscure and somewhat shielded.  His curiosity piqued, he probed a little further and was met with a ferocious counterattack that sent his mind reeling.  He saw stars and nearly fell off his perch.  He heard Amaya’s voice on his earpiece.

“Tsuyoshi. What is it?  Your vitals just went crazy, what’s going on?”

Tsuyoshi shook his head and cursed under his breath.

“It’s okay, Amaya.  Don’t worry about me I’m just surveillance and back up.  Keep an eye on Takeru’s vitals.”

“But Tsuyoshi…”

“Just do it!”

Pause.

“Okay.”

            The earpiece clicked off as Amaya closed the connection.  Tsuyoshi took a deep breath and found the consciousness again, taking extra care not to cause any alarm.  He concentrated and closed his eyes, bringing up an image of the person to which the consciousness belonged.  It was the renowned Japanese pianist Kurai Hishazi.  Tsuyoshi noticed that the boy was running down the hall, bumping into things and knocking them over in his haste.  The second thing Tsuyoshi noticed was that the boy had been crying and had blood splattered on his clothing.  His eyes shot open as the realization hit him. The boy had seen the fight and survived and was going to warn the others.  Tsuyoshi quickly leapt from the tree to the balcony below and slipped in quietly.  His approach would have to be quiet if he was going to take this boy down.

            Tsuyoshi moved cautiously down the hallway and nearly collided with Kurai. He instantly backpedaled and cursed in his mind as he silently drew his kunai and prepared to strike.  Unfortunately, Kurai was already alerted to his presence and caught him by surprise with another ferocious mental attack.  This time Tsuyoshi was prepared and threw up his mental defenses to ward off the attack.  The boy’s attack lasted for a minute then slackened as he took a breather, and Tsuyoshi took that window and lunged at him with his kunai.  Kurai grunted in pain as the kunai bit into his arm, but he pushed Tsuyoshi away with surprising force for someone so slight.  Tsuyoshi got up to retaliate but as he was standing he felt a stinging pain in his back as a shuriken hit home.  He gritted his teeth and spun around to face his greatest enemy.  He took in a breath and snarled, “Kohl Takai.”

            Kohl was breathing hard from running down the hall and he went into a crouch, pulling out his kunai and breathing his opponent’s name. “Tsuyoshi Kurushime.”

            The two faced each other for a moment, Takai and Kurushime.  The former glaring with hatred at the latter who remained impassive.  The rest of the Amaryllis Unit appeared behind Kohl and got into formation behind him.  Tsuyoshi smiled dangerously.

“Well isn’t this convenient?  All of the Takai’s before me ready for the slaughter.  I couldn’t have asked for a better opportunity.”

Kohl didn’t even flinch, but looked past Tsuyoshi to Kurai.

“Hishazi, are you alright?”

Kurai looked up and winced.

“I-I think so, but Rai needs your help!  Takeru has him trapped in his room!”

Kohl looked at Tsuyoshi.

“That boy is not of the Nabari world.  Leave him out of this and let him pass.”

Tsuyoshi snorted.

“What? So he can lead you to where my counterpart is finishing off your leader?  Never.”  He then gritted his teeth and said the rest in a snarl.  “You’ll have to get past me to get to him, Takai.”  He spat the last word out with a hatred that made the twins flinch and Tsuyoshi smirked.  “What? Are you two frightened?  Bear in mind that what happened to your comrade Chason could happen to you too.  Unless you scrounge up the guts to face me and kill me.”

Kohl turned back to Yoshi and Siiju.

“Don’t listen to him, he’s just trying to scare you.  Stay strong and you’ll be okay.”

            The two boys were calmed by their leader’s confidence and Kohl turned back to face Tsuyoshi.  He said to the twins in their minds. I’ll make a distraction then you get past him and take Kurai with you to save Rai.  On my mark.  The two boys nodded.  Kohl took a deep breath and exhaled then lunged at Tsuyoshi.  At the same instant, the twins had leapt over the two combatants, grabbed Kurai, and disappeared down the hall.  Tsuyoshi snarled as his prey escaped him and looked at Kohl. 

“You’ve gotten better. More organized.  Have you learned since I massacred your family?”

“Your fight had always been with me Tsuyoshi. You couldn’t stand being out of favor and watching me get it all, it has nothing to do with those boys or anyone else.”

            Yoshi and Siiju raced down the hall in the direction Kurai had come from, dragging the poor boy behind them.  It wasn't until they arrived at the room that they heard the sounds of combat coming from within.  From what they could hear, Raiden was hard pressed and failing fast.  Yoshi and Siiju could wait no longer, they both burst into the room and attacked Takeru head on. 

            Takeru cursed loudly as the boys attacked him.  He felt one of their kunai bite into his side and grit his teeth.  Then a naginata slashed across his back and he cried out.  “Curse you! Tsuyoshi where are you?!”  Yoshi and Siiju laughed.  “He won't be coming, Kohl will see to that.  Now fight and pay for your crimes!” 

            Kurai listened to the goings on and heard Raiden gasping in a corner.  He crawled  over to him and his hands found him.  He drew them back hot and sticky with blood.  “Raiden!”  Kurai cried in dismay.  “Please tell me you're okay!”  He murmured, pulling him up gently into his arms.  He felt Raiden cough and touch his shoulder.  “I'm still here...for the most part.”  Kurai heard Takeru curse again and a thud.  “Raiden! We've got him subdued now what?!”  Raiden coughed.  “Tie him up...we'll keep him here and see what we can get from him.  What's the status on Kohl?”  Kurai heard Takeru groan and Yoshi and Siiju grunting as they tied him up.  Kurai turned his face towards Raiden's voice.  “What about you?”  He felt Yoshi's hand on his shoulder.  “We'll take care of our captain.  You go find your brother and alert him to the going's on.  You need not worry about Tsuyoshi, Kohl has him under control.”

            Tsuyoshi was slammed against the wall and felt cold steel pierce him as he snarled in pain.  Kohl stared at his younger counterpart.  “You never learned to control your emotions.  You always attack in anger, Tsuyoshi.  That is why you have never defeated me up to this point.  You were always impetuous and brash in your actions and that is why they chose me over you.  I was calm and well-grounded in my studies of the art of the shinobi.”  Tsuyoshi bared his teeth and pressed back with his powers and Kohl slammed against the wall.  Kohl grunted.  “Well done, you managed to get past my barrier.  You've been practicing.”  Tsuyoshi took Kohl's blade out of his back and turned.  “Shut up....I'm through listening to your conceited lies...it's time to end this.”  Kohl nodded.  “Indeed...”  Tsuyoshi was then sent reeling as Kohl hit him with a ferocious mental attack.  The young man fell to his knees, releasing his hold on Kohl and putting his hands to his head.  Then suddenly Amaya was there and the fighting stopped.  Kohl stared at the girl standing over Tsuyoshi, her blade drawn and teeth bared.  “Touch him...and you'll regret it...”  She said icily, staring at Kohl with eyes filled with venom.  Kohl knew better than to argue with her...for he knew her well..and her....unique abilities.  “Go then...and take your charge with you.  Bear in mind though that he will not always have you to protect him...you would be wise to try to convince him to join us, Amaya.”  The girl stared at Kohl with unblinking eyes.  “I will think upon it and give you our answer on a later date.  Farewell, Kohl Takai.”  She then vanished, taking Tsuyoshi with her.

            Raiden woke up in a hospital bed once again.  He groaned and tried to sit up, regretting it instantly as pain shot down his back and through his chest.  Gentle hands pushed him back down and he looked up to see Mae smiling down at him.

“Welcome back.”  She said, brushing his bangs out of his eyes and kissing his forehead.

Raiden stared and frowned slightly.

“What happened?  Did they get him secured?”  He said, having passed out before seeing the final outcome of Takeshi and Tsuyoshi’s attack.  Mae smiled.

“Yeah.  Everyone’s safe now…Thank, God.”  She murmured softly.

            Raiden sighed with relief.  “Good.” He murmured, glancing at Mae.  He took her hand in his, looking up at her.

“I’ve had a lot of time to think over a few things,”  He paused, thinking through his words. “and I think we should get married soon.  As soon as possible, because I don’t know where this path we’ve started down will take us.”  He touched her cheek tenderly.  “I don’t want us to regret not doing something while we both still had time to do it.  If you’ll still have me.”  Mae smiled tenderly at him.  “Of course I will, silly boy.”  She murmured affectionately, kissing him softly.

            A week later, Raiden was released from the hospital and he and Mae were married in Kubota’s house the moment they got back.  It was the perfect spot, safe and quiet and it doubled as a honeymoon location.  Kai was happy for his sister and new brother-in-law.  He had had a feeling that this turn of events would compel Raiden to take action.  What he was worried about now was Kohl and his obsession over figuring out why this mysterious girl, Amaya, was in league with Tsuyoshi and Hikaro.  The man was losing sleep over it, pouring over archives and newspaper articles with scattered mentions of this girl throughout. She was everywhere.  At the root of ever major catastrophe, her name was bound to pop up.  It seemed impossible, but the evidence was too obvious to ignore. 

            The question was, why? What did she have to do with it?  What mysterious power did she wield that could cause such destruction?  These were the questions asked by Kohl…and they worried Kai.  What also worried him, was whether or not she intended to use those destructive powers on them…If she hadn’t already in some subtle way.

“You mean it’s not an obvious power?”  Said Kai to Kohl during the week Raiden was in the hospital.  Kohl shook his head, looking over the archive he was reading.  “It’s subtle enough to not even be noticed.  She often doesn’t even notice it, herself.”

Kai sighed and ran his fingers through his hair.  “What is it? This mysterious power?”  Kohl let out a deep sigh.  “She doesn’t even know…All anyone knows is that disaster and tragedy follows her everywhere.  Her family used to be well known in Ancient Japan…” Kai cut him off. “Woah! Wait a minute. Are you saying she’s centuries old?”

Kohl nodded. “No one knows how, but she doesn’t age.  Now, as I was saying, her family was well known and respected in Ancient Japan.”  He paused, looking gravely at Kai.  “Until the whole clan was decimated in one week by some unknown ninja faction…She was the sole survivor and has been popping up in history books and newspapers ever since.”

Kai stared at Kohl.

“That’s troubling.”  He murmured softly.

Kohl nodded.  “That’s why I’m trying to figure out what she’s doing with Hikaro.  I need to know what their plans are.”

            Kai remembered the conversation well.  And as he walked through the halls, he became more and more unsettled.  What was Hikaro planning next?  Why hadn’t he attacked again or attempted to rescue Takeshi?  One could only imagine what depraved thoughts were going through his head right now.

Working Title Episode 5

Sorry this has been a long time coming, but school is a bear T.T

Raiden came out of Chason’s hospital room and motioned for the others to be quiet. Kohl moved to stand in front of Rai.

“How is he?”

“He’s resting now. The doctor says that he will be released in two days. We have until then to find another safehouse.”

“I understand. Your father had many connections; in fact, Kai has already contacted one of your father’s friends, and he has agreed to harbor us for the time being.”

Rai raised an eyebrow.

“Which one?”

Kohl’s eyes narrowed.

“Kubota Hishazi.”

Rai grimaced.

“Kai! Why’d you have to pick Hishazi?”

Kai put up his hands in a placating gesture.

“He was the first person on the list, and he insisted! I got flustered, it’s not my fault!”

Rai exhaled sharply.

“It’s okay, Kai. I should’ve warned you. The only people who don’t get flustered around Hishazi are deaf people. Even Kohl gets flustered around Hishazi, sorry for snapping.”

Kai sighed.

“S’okay.”

The next day, Chason was released from the hospital and the group piled into the stretch limo sent for them and made their way to Kubota Hishazi’s house. The youngest Takais and the Shirahi siblings had never really met Hishazi, but the remainder of the group were bracing themselves for Hishazi’s somewhat overbearing manner. The car pulled up to Hishazi’s mansion and Kohl smiled as he saw the Takai twins gasp and press their faces against the window to stare at the enormous building. It was Gothic in structure, bearing a striking resemblence to Notre Dame in Paris, France with its many columns and molded capitals and gargoyles everywhere. It was not quite the type of house you would find in rural Japan, but Hishazi was somewhat obssessed with Gothic structures and preferred the attention he got when he was unique.

The limo pulled into the circular driveway right up to the front door where Kubota was waiting for them, his face all smiles. He was in his late twenties, tall, handsome and smartly dressed in a loose white shirt with ruffles down the front and at the ends of his sleeves, black overcoat, tan breeches, and black riding boots that came up to his knees. His eyes were sparkling aquamarine and his long platinum blonde hair framed his face perfectly, making him look slightly boyish- if not feminine- in appearance. Rai smiled weakly as Kubota rushed out to meet them.

“Bonjour! Bonjour! It is simply wonderful to see you all!” He then took Rai’s hands and gave him a light peck on either cheek in greeting. It was apparent to Rai that Kubota had become slightly more French since last they met. But Rai bore it with silent dignity; Chason on the other hand would not have it. Kubota waltzed over to Chason and put his hands on the youth’s shoulders.

“Mon Dieur! What have you done to yourself, mon ami?”

Rai braced himself for the fireworks. Chason glared at Kubota and shouted, “I didn’t do this, you pinheaded fake Frenchman!!! You should know that, you were informed of our situation! Stop being such a freak!”

Yoshi and Siiju’s eyes widened as they watched the argument get underway. Rai rolled his eyes and ushered the boys in, whispering, “This happens all the time.”

The foyer of the mansion had a marble floor that resembled a checker board with a large stair case at the far end that went up to a large landing which branched off into two more stair cases to the right and left. At the top of the landing was a large stained glass window that was an exact replica of Notre Dame’s Rose window. But that was not all Rai noticed, he heard strains of passionate piano music coming from a door to the left. Leaving the boys to follow the butler to their rooms, Rai entered the room the door led to and found Kurai Hishazi, Kubota’s younger brother, playing his brother’s grand piano. The piece he was playing was one of his own compositions and it’s plaintive melody flooded the room with sound. Rai listened for a minute before the young man stopped and turned to Raiden, his glassy eyes staring straight through him.

“Rai? Is that you?”

Rai smiled.

“Yep, you caught me.”

Kurai’s face lit up and he jumped up from the piano bench and hugged Rai. The youth had lost his sight ten years ago in an accident that had also taken his parents. After the accident, the budding pianist was taken in by his older brother, and together the two cultivated Kurai’s gift until he was one of the top ranked pianists in the world. The boy was eighteen, which was an old enough age for him to decide to dye his platinum blonde hair to reddish black, but his eyes were still glassy blue. He was the real reason Rai was here, for Kurai had a special gift that would be key to Rai’s team’s survival. He had the gift of premonition. If something bad was going to happen to Rai and/or his team, Kurai would know. The boy also possessed wisdom beyond his years, and would have been Rai’s advisor if he had not been tied to his career as a concert pianist. But now things had changed, and Rai needed Kurai’s gift and council. Kurai pushed away and stared at Rai with such intensity that Rai swore the boy could see him.

“You’re not here just to visit, are you? Something bad has happened, hasn’t it?”

Rai walked away and looked out of one of the windows in the room.

“What makes you say that?”

Kurai drew his arms around his chest, hugging himself as if to ward off a chill.

“It’s in your voice. I can sense it.”

There was a long pause.

“It’s Hikaro, isn’t it?”

Rai closed his eyes.

“He’s betrayed us. The people I have with me are the only survivors.”

Another pause.

“How many?”

“Five.”

“I knew this would happen. You should have brought him here.”

“I know.”

Kurai sighed.

“You’re here for me. You need my help. My…gift…Is that right?”

Rai turned around.

“Only if you are willing. I would never force you to do anything.”

“I still have no choice. It’s either this or…” Kurai stopped. Rai looked at him and realized that he had seen something.

“What is it? What do you see?”

“I see darkness…You…You’re running from…something. No, wait. It’s…a young man…Hakaija Tashikawa’s youngest brother!”

“Takeru?”

“Yes,…wait something’s happened. You’ve fallen…blood…there’s blood on the ground. Is it your blood or his? I-I can’t tell! No! Stop! Leave him alone!” Kurai covered his eyes, dropping down to his knees. Rai rushed over to him, placing his arms around the boy as he shuddered once and was still. Kurai touched Rai’s arm.

“I’m okay. It’s gone.” Rai released him and he stood up shakily.

“What did you see?”

“You must be very careful in future. Hikaro is ruthless and will stop at nothing until he sees you dead. He has sent Takeru to track down and kill you.”

“Will he succeed?”

“I am uncertain. The future is never set. Some things can be prevented if proper precautions are taken.” Kurai put a hand to his forehead. “And that is all I can give today. I have gone and tired myself out again.”

Rai smiled.

“I guess I’ll be staying in my usual room.”

“Kubota had Henri make it up special.”

Rai put his arm over Kurai’s shoulder.

“Well, let’s go see, shall we?”

“Yes, let’s.” Kurai chuckled, as the two made their way to Rai’s room.

Takeru watched from the shadows as Rai’s group finally proceeded back into the house. He then took in his surroundings, noting all of the entrances and exits and calculating a plan of attack. He knew they expected a night attack, but was he enough of a shinobi to attack in the daytime without making a scene. He was a Jonin, but so was Rai. Takeru bit his lip until it bled, already anticipating the challenge of a daytime assault, this would prove his worth in his brother’s eyes. The “traitor” guise was a perfect front, and Hikaro was the perfect fall guy. This was all part of Hakaija Tashikawa’s master plan, from breaking Hikaro to having Hikaro raze his former comrade’s HQ to having Hakaija’s little brother take Rai out. All underneath the watchful eye of Tsuyoshi, Hakaija’s second and by far his superior. Hakaija was a gang leader yes, but he was mainly a businessman and lacked Tsuyoshi’s visceral nature, preferring to have others get their hands dirty for him. Sure, Tashikawa fought and plotted and stole and cheated, but that was through the brute force of his second. There was a drawback, though, Tsuyoshi was unpredictable and untrustworthy, Hakaija had given Takeru orders to destroy Tsuyoshi if he proved traitorous. Takeru had accepted this mission with eagerness, relishing the challenge of shadowing the psychic without alerting him to his intentions.

But, right now Takeru was shadowing a fellow Jonin, looking for any opportunity to strike. He needed Shonashara alone, otherwise his plan wouldn’t work. He also needed to make this fast, in and out, no distractions, no loose ends. Takeru followed Rai’s movements, waiting for the opportune moment. It wouldn’t be long now.

Rai and Kurai entered Rai’s room and the former took a deep breath and flopped down on the bed. He closed his eyes for a moment then looked at Kurai.

“It’s been so long since I’ve actually felt safe.” He then started when he heard a noise outside his window, then settled back down, smiling ruefully. “Well, almost safe.”

Kurai chuckled and sat on the bed next to Rai. “I guess it can’t be helped. You are a Jonin after all. I suppose a feeling of safety is hard to come by these days.”

Takeru mentally berated himself for being so careless as to step on a twig. He wished the boy that was with Rai would leave so that he could strike. Yet….He looked again. The boy was blind. Why, this was Kurai Hishazi, the renowned teen prodigy. He was a pianist and certainly not a shinobi. What’s more, the boy’s presence put Rai at ease and off guard. Takeru saw his chance and he was going to take it. He pulled out his large shuriken and made his move.

Kurai heard a window crash and Rai cry out in pain then drag him off of the bed to the floor. Kurai’s heart froze, he had heard and felt this before…in his vision. He tried to speak to warn Rai, but he fear stole his voice and all that came out was a shuddering whimper. Rai was breathing hard in his ear, tensing as he must have seen their attacker. Kurai wished he could see who it was, but then Rai snarled the name through teeth clenched in pain.

“Takeru Tashikawa.”

“Well hello, Rai. Did you miss me?”

Kurai felt Rai shudder violently then rise to his feet.

“I’m the one you want. Leave the boy out of this.”

“Now Rai, what kind of shinobi would I be if I left any witnesses?” Kurai heard the rasp of steel and his head turned at the sound. He then felt a rush of wind as Rai left his side and heard a grunt and clash of steel when Rai’s blade came into contact with Takeru’s. Kurai bent over and hugged himself tightly, begging for this all to be a dream, but he was not that lucky. He heard a succession of blows, metal on metal, then Rai snarled in pain and something warm splattered on Kurai’s face. Kurai put his head between his knees.

I can’t take this any longer. I’ve got to go get help! I have to… Kurai jumped up and bolted for the door. His fingers had just wrapped around the handle when he heard Rai yell, “Kurai! No!” Then he felt himself slammed against the door and heard Rai’s shattered cry of defeat. Rai’s breathing fell on Kurai’s neck and Rai barely managed to whisper, “Go, I-I’ll hold…I’ll hold him off….just…just go.”

“Rai.” Kurai breathed as Rai turned the knob.

Kurai fell forward as the door opened to let him out. He heard Rai yell, “Just go!” Then the door slammed behind him, leaving him alone. He lay in the middle of the hallway for a few moments, then curled into a ball and wept.