Porcelain Doll

Chapter 20: Raiden and Katsumi: How it began

He was panting, running so hard that he felt like his legs were going to break. He maneuvered through the Makai trees with a tired sloppiness, clumsy and panicked that he had gotten caught.

"We will catch you kid! And then we will tear you apart limb by limb while you cry in agony!" a demon yelled behind him, his voice angry and deep.

He was a child, raised by only himself since his parents were murdered when he was only a baby. In order to eat he stole and cheated. He took advantage of anyone stupid enough to trust him. This time however the demon was much smarter than him, and when he went to steal a loaf of bread the older demon caught him red handed. Now he was running for his life.

Being a half bat, half elemental demon he was already looked down upon by other demons. He was seen as a monstrosity for reasons he never knew why. He use to stay up at night and wonder why they hated him enough to go and rid of his parents for simply loving each other when love in the demon world was so rare indeed. As time went on however he became angry, bitter, and hateful towards everyone -Including himself.

"How do I get out of this?" he mumbled as he dodged an arrow that would have struck through his heart.

He already had one of those arrows hit him in his wings when he tried to fly out of the situation. That was when everything truly took a turn for the worst.

He was so malnourished that he struggled to keep his thin dirty body moving. His lugs felt like they were pressing viciously against his ribcage. He had to keep running though. His deceitful selfish ways would surly promise a bloody death. He was far too proud to allow such dishonor to happen.

However he was just too weak and tired and soon not even his own pride could keep him from falling from over exertion. He grunted as the impact threatened to break the bones in his frail body. He would not plead though. He shall never beg for doing what he must to survive this unfair land. He will kill anyone who threatened to get in his way and he had multiple times.

Raiden was lost to the world as blood poured from his battered body. He could hear the yelling, the screaming, and the manic laughter of joy as chaos unfolded around the young wounded demon. He was numb though and the child demon welcomed it with open arms.

"You are awfully messy my friend."

Raiden peeled his dark eyes opened and had to blink a few times to clear his clouded vision. However, the demon staring down at him with cheerful bright yellowish golden eyes was not what he was expecting. And neither was the slight fear that coursed through the half-breeds blood at the mere power of this blood covered young demon.

His blood soaked form was contradicting against the manic cheerfulness of his smile and eyes. He wore no shirt and his bright orange hair flowed all over the place. It was coated in blood on almost every strand. He looked like he had just bathed himself in these older and more experienced demons blood. This demon was only about a decade older than Raiden and he was already up to middle A class status. Raiden was only a C.

"You appeal to me little half-breed. I promise no harm will come to you now. You have so much potential in those fragile bones of yours. So much hatred that can he channeled into power if you allow it."

Raiden blinked furiously, trying to keep his focus and body from drifting off.

"Who are you?" he managed to choke out.

The older demon smiled, his blood strained fangs more menacing than Raiden thought the demon noticed. He had the feeling that this demon was trying to be gentle but it just wasn't in his nature to be nurturing. Raiden could understand that.

"I am Makoto little half-breed. Who are you?"

Raiden sniffled, surprisingly not getting offended by the half-breed title. That was indeed what he was and he had heard much, much worst in his years of living.

"Raiden."

Makoto seemed to brighten by this little piece of information being revealed. He looked proud as he stared down at the battered demon child.

"Well Raiden, you will find that from here on out you will no longer need to sink yourself as low as thievery ever again. Now sleep little half-breed. When you wake your life will be forever changed."

And Raiden did indeed fall asleep, unable to stay conscious long enough to ask this demon what he meant. He found, even in his young age, that he had nothing to live for, nothing to loose. If he never woke up, well, what would there be to miss?

~~W~~W~~W~~

The first thing he noticed was the warmth. It was so soft and gentle -so soothing as he pictured his beautiful mother holding him and singing softly with her velvet voice. Like she use to.

His eyes snapped open, suddenly not finding comfort in the warmth any longer. He begged for the cold again so he could become numb once more. But as he examined the expensive cloth blanket that was draped over his naked body he tossed thoughts of his mother far out of his head. He was in unknown territory.

He was bandaged up and in a large furnished room instead of chained to a stone wall being tortured somewhere. Someone had bathed him and he smelled like lavender.

He was confused and awed as he looked around the large room. There were ancient weapons scattered in the carved stone walls. Cross bows, spears, swords and every other weapon Raiden could think of. It was magnificent and threatening at the same time.

"Good, you're awake. We have things to discuss little half-breed. Like where you are."

Raiden jumped, ashamed that he had not smelled the demon that was sitting in a chair on the right side of the room. It was the demon that had saved his life in the woods except he was cleaned and his wild hair was tied back into a perfect braid. He was still missing a shirt however, but unlike Raiden at least he had on pants.

"Where am I then?" Raiden questioned -his eyes hard and dark as coal.

Makoto seemed to jump, surprise and amazement flashing through his eyes.

"The wind, it carries your voice to my ears though you only whisper your words, I hear them clearly. Is that on purpose? Why didn't I notice it earlier?" Makoto questioned, his body leaning forward like he was looking at an animal doing something entertaining.

Raiden did not like that in the least.

"I don't like to talk and I have no control over it," he answered coldly, though honestly he didn't try to do it or not do it.

Raiden only spoke when he had to, if he had to. It was natural and he did it without thinking. He had to think more to not have his voice carry through the wind like it does.

Makoto narrowed his eyes slightly, watching the child with wise and knowing eyes before he said, "Elemental demons all have things about them that tell of their element yet you show nothing expect the wind caters to your needs without it being told to."

Ah, so Makoto did in-fact know the reason despite him questioning it. This demon was far too knowable and wise for Raiden's comfort.

"You are all of them aren't you? Is that why you lack color? Even your skin is colorless."

Raiden narrowed his eyes, though he himself had never thought this through. He never gave much attention to his black hair and eyes, or to the pale skin that made him look like he had never once been out in the sun. Even bat demons had color.

Makoto did not need a response from the demon because he knew he was right. Or he could simply just like the sound of his own girly voice. Raiden decided it was a mixture of the two.

"This is magnificent. I believe we have found a way to father's heart my friend."

Raiden gave the demon a very confused looked and Makoto slapped himself in the head.

"Oh, excuse me. I have forgotten to answer your question. I got side tracked," Makoto started laughing loudly as Raiden stared at him with impatience and a lot of dislike.

Either he was too stupid to notice or just didn't care because he continued to keep laughing though Raiden didn't understand what the hell was so funny.

Finally Makoto calmed himself down and he was suddenly serious, all amusement and warmth gone from his eyes. Raiden had decided that this demon was neurotic. He made a mental note to not piss him off.

"You are in the southern lands of the Makai -The lands that are controlled by my family."

Raiden immediately stiffened, his dark eyes widening in disbelief and slight fear. He was in the home of Royalty. Even though they ruled a small and isolated part of the Makai, they were ruthless and did not hesitate to kill those who challenge their authority. Outsiders were NOT welcomed in Gadico. This was the home of the ancient magical demons and mercy was not in their dictionary. Not even towards the innocent.

Raiden nearly passed out as he examined the tattoos that told of Makoto's ancient blood. How the hell did Raiden allow himself to not notice such important detail? He was surly to die now.

"You will not be harmed Raiden. I have brought you here and if anyone will be punished it will be me. However, I have plans for you and I feel that now my father will reconsider the deal I have made him. You will be a great asset and a welcomed guest here."

Makoto looked at the demon thoughtfully before his expression softened.

"I understand that you are not welcomed by the demons in our fucked up world. If you just work with me Raiden I will make sure that you will find acceptance and power. No one will ever dare look down on you again."

Raiden found himself nodding; trusting this crazy demon more than he knew was safe. But what did he have to loose besides his life? Not even that was valuable and if there was even a small chance that he can find a home, well then it was well worth the risk.

"Wonderful. Lets just get you some cloths and then we can go prove your worth to my father."

Makoto stood up and walked over to a wooden cabinet. He pulled out a black pair of pants that would surly be a little big for Raiden. He wasn't about to complain though.

Without shame he stood up and put the pants on and then tried to run his figures though his long messy black hair. It was so knotted that he couldn't even move his hand more than an inch.

"Here, I'll fix that for you," Makoto said cheerfully as he pulled out a dagger from his cabinet.

Raiden raised a thin black eyebrow but said nothing. After all, he truly didn't like to talk and hair was hardly an important matter. So he remained quiet as a neurotic murderous royal demon cut off his hair with a big dagger that could easily carve out his brain if the wielder ever decided to. Somehow that didn't seem too out of character for the magical demon.

~~W~~W~~W~~

Raiden fought furiously and elegantly with his long silver sword. His handsome face was blank and unfeeling as he struck down each and every opponent. He was ordered to take a group of men to stop the attack on their home and he was going to do his job. As Lord Makoto's second in command, he was pressured to be flawless but Raiden was fiercely loyal to the older demon. He had saved his life and fought to give him a home. In addition Raiden had to go through a week of hardcore training to make sure he was strong enough, but it was well worth it despite the dislike of him that some of the demons had.

With a burst of new determination Raiden began trapping their enemies into the ground. Soon after the small group of demons were nothing more than blood and guts on the ground, but not one of Raiden's men were among them. He had done his job as always.

"Go back to our home and to your families. We are done here. I will report to our majesty."

A few of the men flinched; disturbed by the tall demons voice so close to their ears. Most of them were from the younger generation so they were uncomfortable with their sexuality. It almost made the 900 year old demon roll his eyes. He was never so insecure in his childhood.

He was soon walking calmly through the stone hallways, ignoring the stares he always received from his intimidating dark presence. They were amazed by his wings that he had tucked up against his wide back but were all too scared to approach him. He didn't mind. The less he had to talk the better.

He entered the large royal room where the family sat waiting for his return. Makoto usually went with him but this time he could not due to business. Raiden hardly ever questioned Makoto but he did voice his opinions when it came to war. Together they made an undefeatable team.

"Your majesties, the invading army were stopped before they even touched our home. No men were lost," Raiden said as he bowed down on one knee.

"Wonderful Raiden, once again you have done your job flawlessly. Guards, please go wait outside," the King said gently though authority was seeping through his words.

The moment Raiden felt the guards were gone he stood up and dropped the formality that was required when you were in the presence of the Royal family -At least when others were watching.

Raiden examined the King. He had long braided golden hair and eyes that matched Makoto's. He had a strong face with a pointed nose that Makoto had inherited. He was an ancient demon of lightening.

"My boy, you have grown. You're now Makoto's height," the King said fondly.

"I see my Queen is coming along quiet well in her pregnancy," Raiden replied, his cold eyes softening as he examined the beautiful ancient shadow demon.

Her hair was long, straight and black and her eyes a dark blue. Her belly was big and Raiden could smell that any day now their baby will be born.

"Yes, I have a feeling this baby will be a girl," the queens soft voice cooed, her hand rubbing her belly affectionately.

Raiden watched, feeling a strange pull to his Queen. It had started ever since she had first gotten pregnant. The only one he spoke to it about was Makoto who honestly had no idea the reason. When he turned his attention back to the observant King however he could tell that the King knew something he didn't. His yellow eyes were almost happy as a smile tugged on the corner of his stoic mouth. The king never smiled.

"Ewe, only a week away from me Raiden and you let that mess you call hair get all long and tangled up."

Raiden turned his bored eyes to Makoto who was always pampered and groomed yet he seriously never wore a shirt. The only reason Raiden didn't have one on was for his wings. Makoto was just plain unstable.

"You can fix him later my son. Raiden has been working and must be tired. Lets allow him the gift of sleeping and peace," the King ordered, his eyes amused as he stared over at his son who was sitting more like a girl on his thrown, what with his long legs tossed over one another.

Raiden snorted, crossing his lean arms as he stared at his friend with displeasure written all over his face. He hated his hair cuts.

"You may leave now Raiden. Please try to be awake by the next three days. Our little baby will be due by then and I would like you to be one of the first people to see her. You are part of our family dear," the Queen said gently, somehow remaining sweet and caring despite her 3000 years of life and murder.

Raiden nodded, still a man of few words as he left the Royal conference room and headed to his own room for a much needed sleep.

~~W~~W~~W~~

"Stop being so mean to me or I'll tell my brother and he will beat you up!"

Raiden held back his smile as he blocked out the child's yells. He looked down at the small 7 year old, his heart softening as he looked into her exotic dark blue eyes that she got from her mother, except do to her element of water she had bright blue splashes in them. Her black hair was wild on her head and covered in dirt due to their training. He was showing her how to fight with swords and kept knocking it out of her tiny hands when she wasn't looking. She was such a fire cracker.

He remembered the first time he laid eyes on her. He was woken up do to frantic activity among the palace and quickly went into action. He went to the hospital wing where he knew the Queen was having her child and got their just as the baby was delivered.

The Queen held her child, than the King, than Makoto, and then Raiden. He looked down at the little baby, his eyes wide and soft. The Queen was right, the baby was indeed a she and Raiden was stunned as the baby girl opened her beautiful eyes. His face was the first thing she saw and he was the first to stare into her unique eyes. He had never seen a child so beautiful.

She reached her tiny hand up and touched his face, warmth spreading throughout his whole body by the simple contact. He blinked in confusion as he and the baby girl were surrounded by a golden light, a light that only swallowed the two of them.

"What is this magic?" Raiden questioned, holding the baby protectively to his chest as he turned his attention to their King.

"He is your protector Katsumi. There is not much I can do."

Raiden turned his attention to Makoto, snapping out of his flashback as his friend approached them with a large grin on his face.

"Brother! You're back!" Katsumi squealed, quickly forgetting her anger and running to her brother.

Makoto smiled over at Raiden before scooping his sister up in his long arms.

"Raiden was just showing me how to fight with swords like he does. He was being an ass!"

Makoto burst out in laughter at his little sister's language that she had learned, courtesy of his own rotten mouth. Raiden narrowed his eyes in disapproval but was none the less smirking in amusement.

"Katsumi, watch your mouth!"

The trio turned their attention towards the soft but stern voice.

Katsumi clung on to her brother tighter as she eyed her angry mother who had her arms crossed and eyes narrowed.

"Sorry Mama," Katsumi said softly, her eyes big and watery though she always refused to cry.

She was destined to be a strong warrior. That much was for certain.

The Queen sighed, her eyes softening as she approached her children.

"I am happy you are back my son. Your father is very sick. We have a month."

Raiden averted his eyes, his sadness matching their own for they are the only family he had ever known.

"Will someone please tell me what is wrong with Papa? Is he dying?"

Three sets of eyes turned to the overly observant little girl. Her eyes were sad but not in the least bit confused. She knew of death.

"Yes. He is sick," Raiden said softly, knowing that neither Makoto nor the Queen will answer.

"Than I need to keep training so I can defend our land and Papa's honor," she said as she blinked away her tears and struggled to get out of her brothers arms.

Makoto turned his eyes to Raiden's, sadness and pain clear in his expression. Raiden knew how close to his father Makoto was. He looked up to him and now his little sister will barely be able to remember the great man that he was.

The Queen turned her back to the men, tears flowing down her cheek as she went back into the palace, her navy gown blowing in the constant wind that their home always had. This was hard for everyone but it was Makoto who had to take his fathers place and in Raiden's mind he had it worst. He would be the King of their land and Raiden knew how much his friend wanted to just get away from his Royal blood but now he would be forever bound to this place.

~~W~~W~~W~~

Raiden watched with blank eyes as the young woman fought with more elegance and grace than he had ever seen. She had two swords in each hand and was easily laying the grown men out without a sweat. She was clever and much quicker.

"That is enough Katsumi," Raiden spoke calmly, though deep inside he was proud of her and the progress she had made.

"You were wonderful my lady. Your control was inspiring."

Katsumi beamed at her opponents before making her way over to Raiden.

His expression remained blank but as he watched her walked towards him, her hips swinging with every step as her breast bounced with her cat like steps he found himself desiring her. He had never noticed before now how much she had grown. She was a woman by demon terms, but to him she was still that little girl. How can he desire her in such a sinful way?

"Your father would be very proud of you," he said stiffly.

She looked up at him, her eyes a little let down as a frown tugged on her lips. He almost frowned in return but kept his face stoic.

"Are you proud?"

Raiden was taken back and physically took a step back from her. She had never asked him that and her voice was soft and slightly nervous. Was she scared that she didn't have his approval? Why would she care?

"You did well."

Raiden felt the weight in his heart lighten as she smiled brightly at him and grabbed his hand like she often did when he did something that she liked. Women were strange.

"Will you please tell me today how you came to live here?" Katsumi asked hopefully, yet he always told her no ever time that she had asked in the past.

He sighed, "Your brother saved me from a life of thievery and brought me here. The people still fear me for what I am. They think I will betray the royal family and don't understand why I am so close to you when I am trash."

Katsumi stopped walking and looked up at Raiden with disapproving eyes. She looked appalled.

"You have protected my brother, fought for our land, and you have protected me and taught me how to fight and protect myself. I trust you more than I trust myself Raiden. I love you."

Raiden's eyes grew just as wide as Katsumi's who was now beat red. Raiden quickly recovered and soon after Katsumi did as well.

"You know, I was around you most my whole life. You're like family," she said calmly, though Raiden could hear the strain in her words.

She was young though, what did she know of love? What did he know of love? He had never loved another being in this world. But as one of the soldiers of their army pulled the young woman away, Raiden narrowed his dark eyes at the young blonde demon in hatred. That surly got the demon moving. Raiden smirked.

~~W~W~~W~~

"Katsumi!"

Raiden growled in annoyance, his eyes meeting Makoto's who looked just as annoyed.

"Blaize, what the hell is wrong with you?" Katsumi questioned, but she was smiling and looked rather happy to have her friend around.

"Your little prissy girl of a boyfriend is looking for you. He looks troubled. Seriously, break up with that asshole."

Raiden snorted, always amused when the magical fire elemental was in the room. She was Katsumi's best friend and he had watched the two girls grow up together. They were complete opposites.

"Excuse my language your highness," Blaize said sarcastically as she turned her attention to Makoto sitting on his thrown.

"You're excused...fire crotch."

"Makoto!" Katsumi screeched, jumping out of her chair to punch her older brother in the head, not holding backs since she knew he could handle it.

Makoto burst out in laughter, always loving to push people's buttons. It was his favorite past time. Raiden just sighed, being the calm one all of the sudden. Shouldn't that be their King? Instead he acted like a child. That was why Raiden was his second in command. Nothing would ever get done if it was up to Makoto.

Katsumi stomped away from the conference room, her black pants and shirt clinging to her beautiful body as she shook her head in irritation. Raiden found that it was becoming hard to resist her allure. He had distanced himself from her and she had seemed very bothered by it. After all, she had been with him since she was a baby. He was her protector and that was what he was trying to do. He was bound to her by magic.

"You desire her."

Raiden turned his eyes to his friend and managed to keep them blank.

"Blaize is immature and loud."

Makoto turned his knowing eyes to the cold half-breed.

"I was not speaking of Blaize. You desire my sister and you have my consent. I would not trust her with anyone else but you and I hate her with that boy she's with now. He is weak."

Raiden was shocked. He had never expected that he would be viewed as good enough for Katsumi. She was royalty and he was trash.

"I agree with my son."

The men turned their attention to the door way where they saw the Queen. Well, she wasn't quite the Queen anymore but she took the reins when Makoto left to do god knows what. Of course Raiden knew it was to see his male lover. He was forbidden however to mate with the demon. If his father were still alive Makoto would have been forced to find a wife long before he ruled their lands.

"Raiden, you are a respectful and strong demon. You will protect my daughter with your life and I can see the love you two have for each other," she spoke softly, a smile on her still youthful face even though her eyes were sad and worn.

She had yet to recover from the Kings death. How could you after thousands of years of being with someone?

Raiden closed his eyes, confused and feeling things that he had never felt before. This was all so new to him. He hated it.

He left the room in a hurry, the need to be alone stronger than ever as he made his way outside. The Sun was setting and the castle grounds were almost barren.

"You want to end our relationship? Katsumi, are you serious?"

"Yes. I don't love you."

"Who the hell is talking about love?"

"Dude, you are such a fucking prick. She said that she's done with you so why don't you go cry to your fucking mama you wussy!"

Raiden rolled his eyes as he made his way towards the voices.

"Blaize, keep out of this. Its not like I was dating you freak."

"Whoa, who are you calling freak you dick sucker. When you joined the army I was there, Jack and I watched you suck another recruit's dick. If you want to go right now bring it on!"

Katsumi laughed, "Blaize I don't need your input."

"Well, you're too nice about it."

"Whatever. You're just a prissy princess. I'm gone!"

"Good riddance!"

Raiden stopped walking when the two female came into view. Blaize was laughing with a bottle of sake in her and Katsumi was shaking her head and chuckling lightly at her obviously drunk friend.

"Does your mother know you've gotten into her personal storage again?"

Both females jumped and spun around in his direction.

"No she does not. On that note I got to go!" Blaize said oddly calm before smiling in mischief and running off.

"She's a hand full," Katsumi told him lightly before turning her back to him and watching the remainder of the day disappear.

"Is love really so rare that people don't even bother to wish for it anymore?"

Raiden frowned as a blurry image of his mother and elemental father came forth from somewhere deep within his mind. His mother was dark in her features and his father was light. They had found love within one another despite the risk that it entailed. They had paid the price for following their hearts.

What was he to tell her though? That love only resulted in pain and death –that it only caused weakness for enemies to take advantage of?

"Never mind, I know it's a silly question. My parents loved each other so I think there is still hope. Maybe I will get lucky someday."

She didn't turn around and look at him but her words were all that was needed in order to make him wonder if she was hinting something. This was his chance to see if he was losing his mind or if he was actually developing feelings for her.

He turned away from her, his eyes closed as he shook his head lightly.

"Maybe someday you will find a suitable woman for you Raiden," she said softly –a sad undertone apparent yet he did not say a thing.

Instead he walked away.

~~W~~W~~W~~

"Come on Katsumi, I know you better than you know yourself."

"You are my best friend, not my clone."

"Oh shut up. You love him, you dream of him, you trust him with your life."

"As far as I know, that is due to our bond which we only have because I am the daughter of the Royal family."

"Ha. You're just as bad as him."

Raiden froze in his position. He was going down the stone hallway towards Katsumi's room. Makoto had just gotten back and had heard that there were renegade demons that were planning on ambushing the kingdom. Katsumi helps him with their army so he was coming to brief her. He wasn't expecting to hear this conversation however.

"You are helpless Kat. He is perfect for you and if you don't go to him he will never come to you."

Raiden stepped back into the shadows, the bat in him allowing the shadows to engulf his whole being and protect him like a shadowed blanket.

Blaize walked out, her short red hair sticking in random crazy directions. She was wearing only a wrapping around her upper torso and it showed the bright blue tattoo on her back that resembled out of control fire. She continued to mumble to herself angrily as she turned a corner.

Raiden stepped out of the shadows and quietly peeked into Katsumi's room. She was sitting on her bed, her gaze unfocused as she stared up at the ceiling.

"Hello Raiden," she said softly, always so aware of the people around her even when they mask their scent.

"Makoto has returned," he said in his normal monotone voice.

She sat up, her loose midnight hair flowing over her shoulder gracefully.

"There is trouble," she said calmly, somehow knowing what he was going to say.

She was a very intuitive woman.

"Yes. Rogue demons plan on attacking our kingdom."

She nodded, her eyes guarded in a way that was far beyond her age and her face was hard like stone. He couldn't believe how much she had changed while he was away from her. How did she become so...cold?

"We should get together our troops then conjure up a plan that we will present to Makoto."

"Yes," she said simply, her small curvy body standing up with more grace than a feline.

Raiden lingered for a moment, finding that he wanted to talk to her about anything, everything, as long as he could continue to watch her.

Katsumi glanced up, a white shirt in her hand as she stood their in baggy black pants that were low on her hips and wrapping around her upper torso.

Raiden had to fight to keep his gaze from showing that her cold unfeeling demeanor was unnerving him. What happened to that determined young woman he saw only a year ago? Without a word he turned around and left the room. For once he felt like he no longer he knew her and it was his fault. All of the years gone by and he was still just as selfish as ever.

~~W~~W~~W~~

He watched her toss and turn, her whimpers clear to his sensitive ears. He has stood by her door for hours, watching and wishing that he could help. Someone had snuck into the Kingdom and assassinated the Queen while she was walking around the town. Katsumi had been suffering far worst than she should be. Her health was at risk mentally and physically.

Makoto had told him that it was retaliation for fending off the rouge demons and killing more than half. It was a warning and things were about to get bad. Katsumi was having the worst of it. It didn't help that Makoto had been acting strange. Something was amiss.

The next morning Raiden awoke to the feeling of anger but it wasn't his own. Katsumi was pissed off and she was sending it directly to Raiden, purposely. He wasted no time and within seconds he was entering the conference room, a look of annoyance on his face as his dark eyes zeroed in on the new figure in the room.

"Tell that asshole that he can't do this to me Raiden! I'm perfectly fine."

Raiden's eyes softened as he turned towards Katsumi. Her eyes were shadowed over and she looked like she hadn't slept in years. She was thinner than normal and her skin had lost its golden glow. She looked like death.

"Raiden, this is the Prince of Spirit World. He is in need of an assassin and thought that Katsumi would be perfect for the job. It will help if you get away from here for awhile Katsumi," Makoto said gently as he turned back to his sister, but Raiden noticed that slight worry in Makoto's eyes.

"I have seen you fight Katsumi, you are quick, precise, and don't take joy in the kill. It's not personal with you and that is what I need."

Raiden turned his attention back to the stranger. He was in the form of a teenager it appeared, but the binky was an interesting accessory.

Katsumi looked helpless and fragile as she stood there with no say in her choices.

"It is Katsumi's choice on what she does Makoto. Perhaps we should all discus this another time. Allow her to think it over," Raiden said calmly, but inside he was tormented.

"That is fine with me," Koenma said kindly, his eyes soft as they looked over at the demoness.

Makoto sighed, "Of course."

"Come," Raiden held out his hand and Katsumi wasted no time in hurrying over to him.

He wrapped one of his wings around her in habit to protect her. He did it when they walked through the town and to this day he still does when he is suspicious. Right now it was of her brother and his own long time friend. Makoto wanted Katsumi far away from here. The question was why.

Raiden kept his thoughts to himself as he led her back to her room. She kept her eyes down like she was ashamed of the way she has been handling her mother's death. He watched her stumbled to her bed and crawl in, her empty wide eyes blank as she laid their quietly.

"Raiden...come lay with me," her tired voice whispered.

He stumbled over himself for a moment, not truly believing what he was hearing.

He slowly walked over to her small form on the bed, and strangely enough he thought about the fact that he was only in a pair of pants. Right now wasn't the time to be modest though.

Her eyes met his and he was taken back by the fire and determination in the icy depths despite her defeated voice.

"What is it that you want from me Katsumi?" he whispered softly, his head shaking slightly as he tried to comprehend her actions and words.

She got up on her knees and suddenly her warm lips consumed his with so much need, sadness and love that he nearly fell over from all of the emotions she was sending him.

"I want you to make me feel something other than pain and heartache."

And he did.

~~W~~W~~W~~

They went together. They explored the Makai together and did Koenma's bidding's together. Makoto was right in saying the Katsumi leaving would help her and Makoto had also told Raiden to go with her since she had never left their Kingdom before. He was right again, but Makoto was trying very hard to keep them away. He was desperate to get them to leave and that was years ago.

He told them not to return no matter what in a letter that was sent by Blaize who was also told not to come back. Raiden didn't tell Katsumi that bit of information and neither did Blaize. She told Katsumi that she was bored without her there and things were starting to get a little too crazy.

Makoto was smart but somewhere along the way his brain had failed him and had gotten him in trouble -Deep trouble. Raiden knew that Katsumi could feel it but she never pressed the matter and never asked to go back.

Blaize told him that their people were getting murdered but it was by the citizens. Whoever Makoto pissed off must be an expert at mind control or something similar. Raiden had to fight the urge to go back single day since then.

During one of their jobs for Koenma, Raiden had taken out a spider demon and cut off a chunk of his hair. It was a rare breed of spider demon and their hair had been used for many things over the years. Raiden decided to make Katsumi a choker in hopes that it would cheer her up. She was missing her brother dearly and while nothing could make her forget her brother, he just wanted to see her smile again.

"Oh Raiden, this is beautiful," she whispered as her face broke out in the most beautiful smile he had ever seen and it felt like years since his heart felt as warm as her smile made it.

Not even caring about who might see, he took her right then and there with every intention of starting a family with his mate.

~~W~~W~~W~~

"Jeeze Kat, you're fat as hell."

Raiden snorted as he popped some bread in his mouth. Blaize was still the same no matter how many years have passed.

"Thanks Blaize. You looked great to," Katsumi replied sarcastically as she shot Raiden a quick playful glare.

Raiden smiled one of his rare smiles before returning to his meal. Blaize had required her own home once she was done exploring and due to Katsumi's condition she no longer worked for Koenma. Katsumi wanted to seek out Blaize and she had offered them a room in her small house. Raiden was glad that she had not requested to go home to her brother. He didn't want her getting caught up in his foolish decisions, whatever that may be.

One night Raiden was standing out in the fresh air, thinking of everything that had happened in his long life time. He knew it was right of him to be here with Katsumi, but he should be helping Makoto. After all, it was Makoto who saved his life and gave him a better one.

However he had a duty to Katsumi, as her mate and protector. She was due to have their child within the next few weeks. How could he leave her? How could he even be thinking of leaving her when he may not return?

"I heard from Makoto."

Raiden stiffened as he turned towards the house. Blaize was serious somber as she looked up at him.

"I don't know what he did Raiden but he is in some serious shit."

Raiden closed his eyes, his inner battle starting to get dangerous as the wind began to pick up due to his conflicting thoughts.

"You want to go save him," Blaize said as she nodded her bright red head in understanding.

Raiden didn't reply for a moment but as a swarm of thoughts crowded his overworking brain a sudden thought hit him.

"He had a gay lover. He would sneak off and leave me behind so people would think he was still there."

Blaize took in a sharp breath, quickly catching on to his train of thought.

"Holy shit. You think that this lover of his might...have been a trick to get the kingdom or something?"

"Or he became jealous that they had to sneak around and could not be mates due to the law."

Both demons grew silent, finally seeing just how serious this situation was and how much Makoto was in danger. He had gone to great measures to keep them safe and away from danger. Too bad they were about to go back into what he fought to keep them from.

~~W~~W~~W~~

Katsumi's eyes were wide and angry.

"How could you not tell me all of this? I knew...but I never asked because I thought you would let me know if it was bad."

"We didn't come to full realization until last night Kat. We're telling you now and that's what matters."

Raiden stayed silent, still conflicted like he was the night before. It felt wrong to walk into danger but he couldn't just let Makoto die. How did he know Makoto wasn't dead already?

Katsumi said, "We're going to go save him then," as she slowly got up from the table they were sitting at.

"You're not going anywhere. You're going to contact Koenma and go into protection."

Katsumi narrowed her eyes dangerously but right as she was going to give him a piece of her mind there was a large crash. He heard Blaize scream as she flew towards the wall and slumped to the floor. Then Raiden was out cold before he could even form a coherent thought. The last he heard was screaming; Katsumi screaming.

His eyes snapped open and he had to blink a few time to realize he was looking at what used to be their lively kingdom. Where children used to play and the demons would shop was nothing but demolished ruble. It was completely barren. All of the ancient magical demons were slaughtered, and by their own hands.

"Raiden."

Makoto, he heard Makoto. He looked around franticly but his movement was restricted. When Raiden looked down he found that a spell had been set on him. His energy was tied up inside of his body and he couldn't move. It was like weights were tied on every part of his muscle.

"Amos, I didn't know he was so powerful. I didn't…"

Raiden finally spotted the sorrowful demon. He looked horrible. He was directly to his right and only a foot from himself. He was naked and covered in blood from head to toe due to deep gashes throughout his whole body. He had been like this for months and Raiden could tell by how shrunk this body had become.

"Katsumi?" Raiden whispered.

A tear fell down Makoto's bloodied cheek as he directed his attention in front of him. Raiden followed his gaze and roared out in anger and sorrow.

Her breathing was shallow and her body in the same condition as Makoto's. She was bare, beaten and her face was scrunched up in pain.

"Ah, now that you're up I can finally get on with the show," said a silky deep voice.

Raiden growled as he turned his soulless eyes to the reason of the voice. The man was rather short with long golden hair and bright blue eyes. He was smiling in joy and excitement, a long dagger in his hand.

"Amos, please," Makoto pleaded which was nothing like the ruthless demon Raiden had grown to know. What had come of his friend while they were away?

Amos chuckled before he knelt down beside Katsumi.

"A woman is disgusting when pregnant. Not to mention the affects it has on the body," and then the knife went right into her stomach and Katsumi screamed as tears fell from eyes.

Raiden roared in anger as he fought with all of his strength. Makoto was howling and was no doubt fighting just as much as he was. But neither of them could break free from this demons mental hold and they both closed their eyes in pain as Amos entered her while he continued to carve in her stomach. Raiden could smell death and it was of their unborn baby.

"I didn't know. I didn't know," Makoto kept chanting again and again but Raiden wasn't listening.

"All I wanted was to be with you Makoto -to rule the land with you and be with you always. You didn't even tell me about this delicious sister of yours. This is your punishment for not telling me when you claimed you loved me. Guess you always loved her more huh?" Amos said sarcastically before he got up and left but the sobbing of Katsumi didn't ease up.

"Katsumi?" Raiden whispered.

"Shh-la-duh-bam-la-ick tah."

"Katsumi, what are you doing?" Makoto whispered and for the first time Raiden realized just how close to death his friend was.

"Nah-loo-tash-ino."

"I'm back my love. I hope you didn't miss me too much," Amos said as she crouched down beside her bloodied form.

Raiden would have growled but he was too interested in Katsumi's quiet chanting. He knew that she was a magical demon but he had never seen her kind actually do magic. Not even Makoto.

Amos quickly turned his attention from Makoto to Katsumi who was starting to glow a dark blue.

"What the hell?" he squealed as his body began sag like it would in old age.

"Amazing what age can do to a body," Katsumi choked out as his body became frail and his tan became pale with a sickly green color mingling in.

His bright blue eyes became crooked and his hair fell out in chunks. He looked like walking bones and saggy skin. He looked repulsive.

"What did you do to me?" he squeaked, his velvet voice gone.

"I showed you you're true from," she whispered before she began to glow once more. This time Makoto was glowing with her. Raiden shot up off of the ground, Amos too distracted to concentrate on pinning him down.

He punching Amos as hard as he could in his nasty face and just when he was going to rip out his throat Amos disappeared, leaving nothing besides their demolished kingdom to show of his presents.

Raiden turned around and met Katsumi's eyes. They were sad and full of so much pain that he fell to his knees beside her.

"We will not die. We will be born again in my reincarnation and Makoto will be with me. We will get free and finish Amos together, but when the time comes my love, you must not tell me who I am and what we had."

Raiden could only nod as he watched her slowly fade before him, the blue light of magic taking her and Makoto somewhere to wait. She smiled weakly, tears falling from her eyes until she was completely gone, no trace of her and Makoto in sight.

He was the only one left in the destroyed kingdom and alone he would be until she once again returned, but unlike her he will have to forever carry this memory and their love with him. He will wait until she returns and they will kill Amos, and then he will find peace in death.