Missing Pieces: Demon Queen, #2

By Aindi Rain

      Reaching TitanLand was like entering a Sci-Fi set fog coated the inside of the park, making it hard to see anything from the outside. Seeing the way it looked, you knew magic was containing the fog; otherwise, it would have covered the entire area by now. Katsu parked the SUV a safe distance from the theme park's gates. 

"I want everyone alert when entering this park. I want those who are staying out here to keep watch on the video feed. We have no clue what is waiting inside. Take no chances and pay attention to everything." Mayu said, having everyone double-check their audio and visual gear before moving near the gates. 

"Understood!" they answered. Once again, no one was willing to argue about what Mayu said.  

Entering the park caused anyone with a good sense of smell to gag, including Mayu causing some to look at her, confused about how she could smell anything. Not having the time to ask questions, they broke off into their paired teams. From the outside, the park was sci-fi. From the inside, it looked like a horror movie. All of the rides, attractions and shops were run down and decaying, slowly rotting away. Wood hung from some of the ride entrances. Overgrown plants wrapped and clung to poles and other tall standing structures. Rides that contained water now had a new ecosystem growing in them. The water was almost black in color and had a foul smell when you came too close. 

 

• Language: English
• Publisher: AindiRain
• Release date: Feb 22, 2023
• ISBN: 9798215478165

Aindi Rain

I started writing when I was in high school but I was always restricted to set rules. When I was given freedom in my writing that is where I learned I excelled. I am not good with grammer,spelling but what I am good at is ideas and details of scenery or events. I love writing and taking people into another world where they can meet the main characters and see them as if they were a friend or a relatable person. I touch topic that are hard to talk about sometimes making it feel real to a point. My characters all come from within and I have so many more to share as I continue to share my books with everyone, 

Book preview

Chapter 1

Mayu walked into the Supernatural Crime Unit building with two Imp demons on either side of her. It has been almost three months since she started working as a Missing person detective. When starting her team, Mayu was limited to those she knew, but many already were set up with their sectors. Jaxson and Alex both transferred once they learned Mayu had been granted her own team. Jaxson had a fit at first and ranted and raved as to why Dusty let Mayu put herself in danger for no gain, but after being yelled at by not only Mayu herself but Alex and Dusty, Jaxson settled on being part of her team. Not long after starting training with the police force, Nishi caught on to what she was doing and had found her uniform. He wanted to join her, but she had given him another assignment, so he was out exploring the world and getting to know her brother. Even with Nishi not beside her, she was never truly alone. Sasa and a couple of other Imp Demons that Mayu named Nijo and Kata. She learned over time that female imp demons didn't fight, and they were shorter than the males by a good foot.

Good morning Mrs. Foster, the secretary chirped.

Good morning, Mayu greeted with a bright smile.

Morning, the imp demons said as one making it echo in the small space.

The secretary chuckled when Sasa, Nijo, and Kata first showed up. She was scared of them, but after a few weeks, she and the rest of the police force and detectives started to see their personalities and became more comfortable around them.  Passing by the desk in the center of the entry room, Mayu made her way over to the left side of the room. Where two double doors lead into her sector. She had a vast space that was two floors and contained a carport.  Entering the room from the double doors, you were greeted with rows of private desks closer to the doors, then in the center of the room where the top floor could overlook, there was a long meeting table. To the left of the meeting table, a large setup containing two large monitors took up most of the wall space. It was hooked up to video and audio systems leading down to a large databank connected to their hub computer. Everything was running out of it, from the audio and visual gear to the tiny chips in each vehicle to track when or where it was if something happened to the visual equipment while they were on routes. The central hub also linked up with the tiny van hub and portable hub for emergency cases. They took either the van or the mobile hub with them during more demanding cases then made everything upload or back up to the central hub.

What job today, Sasa asked, walking next to Mayu.

The same one we have been working on for a little while, Mayu answered softly.

Mayu made her way up a set of wooden steps that led to the second floor. The second floor contained records, research books, and another computer. This one was used for slideshows and for information gathering. The pc was called the information hub as it was how Mayu went over new information with her team by having it all appear on a projected screen or the wall.

Help read, Sasa said, following right behind Mayu while the other two sat down at their desks.

If you want, not sure we can find anything more by reading though, Mayu said, logging into the information pc to pull up the slide show she had been working on for the last couple of days as she found new information about their missing person.

Sasa watched her for a moment before he walked off into the records demon type do we know? he asked. His english was getting better. It started to get clearer after having his name given to him.

That is something I have been trying to figure out, Mayu answered. Mayu had plenty of cases come to her desk. A lot were seen as cold cases, but Mayu had a feeling the demons were still alive. In some cases, they weren't, but she was hoping this one was.

So demon type not helpful then, Sasa muttered. She could hear books and papers moving behind her. geology, he said, holding up a big thick book. They had actual maps, but in some cases, the book was better.

The case is too old to use geology to track the missing person or the one who took them, Mayu said.

How we find then, Sasa asked, stepping beside Mayu.

Use what we have and our knowledge of the changes in the area since the date of the reports, she answered.

Smart, we go look and report back, Sasa said, taking Mayus notes about the old geography of the area they needed to look and see if they could not find anything new for them.

Thank you, Mayu said, getting up from her chair to watch Sasa dash down the steps. Nijo and Kata followed right after him. The only team members who did not get equipment were them since they had their own safety gear.

Once alone, Mayu left her sector for the break room to grab a coffee. On her way, she bumped into Katsu. He must have pulled another all-night bounty hunt. He looked tired and worn out. Letting out a sigh, he turned around to have his tired expression change to glee.

Good morning, Little Bird. How are you this morning, he asked, handing her a coffee, then turned around to make another one for himself.

Mayu smiled before taking a sip of her coffee. This happened often. She was always here before the rest of her team and would spend the early morning talking with Katsu before he would head home to sleep. With coffee and a muffin in hand, Katsu turned around to lean on the counter.

I am doing good. It would be better if I could figure out where my missing person was being kept, Mayu mumbled, leaning on the counter next to him.

Still nothing? Strange, normally there is something to trace even with it being this old, Katsu said.

Mayu let out a small sigh pushing herself away from the counter with her coffee in hand. She started walking to have Katsu fall into step beside her Sasa, Nijo, and Kata are seeing what they can pick up from the old geological information, but I am not sure it will really help, she answered.

Katsu remained quiet for a long while, walking with her all the way back into her sector before he spoke again. I could ask the shadows for information, he said, looking at her.

Mayu looked at him you just pulled an all-nighter again. You are not doing anything but going to sleep, she said tenderly.

Katsu laughed, pfft... come now, I am used to not sleeping for long periods, he said as if he was proud about that. 

Why do I have to see your face first thing when I get here? Jaxson growled upon seeing Katsu.

Mayu was not in the mood to deal with Jaxson and his jealousy when it came to Katsu, but she just could not even bring herself to be mean and hurt Jaxson by telling him she was not interested in him and he needed to stop. She never led him on, but for some reason, he kept trying to claim her as his mate, and she was not in the same mindset. It took her three months to figure out she was in love with Takashi and Lokie, but now she was not sure anymore. They both were still gone. Lokie had said a couple of days but not months, whereas Takashi never gave a specific time of when he would be back.

Katsu was keen on picking up Mayu's sudden emotional change. He had been the first one besides Alex and Dusty to congratulate Mayu when she passed all of her exams and became the leader of the missing person branch. Wrapping his arm around her, he brought her close. If you let your mind wander to dark places, I will be forced to go find it, which means I can't go to sleep, he whispered into her ear.

Mayu looked up when Katsu was suddenly yanked away from her by Jaxson, followed by a deep growl back off, Hinata, he snapped. 

Katsu stood there for a moment and shook off Jaxsons hand get off me, he said, fixing his clothing.

then stay off, May, Jaxson barked.

Mayu stepped in between Jaxson and Katsu, putting her hands on her hips. She glared at Jaxson. I can speak for myself Jaxson, now either go cool off, or you're going home today with a strike, she said.

May, he is not a good guy. Clearly, you can't see that, Jaxson said. Trying to reach for Mayu to pull her away from Katsu, only she hit his hand away from her.

Don't touch me Jaxson, you want to see me speak up fine. Leave Katsu alone before you piss him off enough he hurts you, she snapped.

Jaxson could not believe what he was hearing or seeing. For that matter, Katsu was calm and standing directly behind Mayu, but his eyes were as dark as they could get. May until the rest of your team shows up, I am snagging your sofa, Katsu said, walking to Mayu's private office.

Seriously, who does he think he is, May come on, you had better since when Lokie and them were here, Jaxson said. He regretted it the moment he saw the look in Mayu's eyes.

Jaxson, that was uncalled for, Alex said.

Turning around, Jaxson was greeted with angry glares from Umi and Akane. Ever since Mayu had met her uncle, the way she spoke and looked at Jaxson had changed. He hated it and wanted to make it change. He was trying to claim her as his mate, but she wanted nothing to do with it. It made his wolf rage in anger every time someone touched Mayu that was not himself. Now he was being death glared at by a woman who carried around a knife and a tiger who was on Mayu's side of things.

Since everyone is here, we can get started, Mayu announced, walking off to set up the projector. 

A couple of hours later and the imp demons returned. They entered the sector quietly to the point no one but Mayu noticed their entrance. When Mayu was done going over a couple of new case files, Sasa, Nijo, and Kata moved into view, making Jaxson jump as if he saw a mouse or spider crawl on the floor.

Did you three find anything? Mayu asked, turning her attention to them with a kind smile.

Yes, shadows lots of them, also old rickety buildings in the trees, Sasa answered.

Mayu cursed under her breath. Katsu had asked the shadows for help at some point while she let him rest in her office. Thank you, Mayu said, walking to her office to see Katsu asleep on the sofa.  Katsu, did you have to go and talk to the shadows before getting rest, she asked, crossing her arms in the doorway.

Katsu slowly sat up and looked at her. He looked well-rested for the amount of sleep he had gotten. I did take a nap before communicating with my shadows, he said, stretching as he got to his feet.

Mayu let out a small sigh. Lowering her arms, she found herself being drawn in for a friendly, strong hug. So what did you find out? she asked quietly. She found comfort in his rather odd scent over the last three months he and Kazuya became her calming agent.

Besides Jaxson being a dick, your demon is being kept closer to the countryside, and there is one out in the woods somewhere, he answered.

Mayu laughed at what Katsu said. He was generally friendly, but Jaxson made him angry often. Over the last three months, Mayu may have grown apart from Jaxson. Still, she stayed pretty close with Alex since he seemed to understand her better and even tried to ego check Jaxson on occasion, like this morning when they showed up to hear Jaxson talking about Lokie.

Thank you, Katsu, for helping. I really hope you go get more sleep than what you have gotten by sleeping on my sofa, Mayu said, walking with him.

Now that I have helped, I can get more sleep, that is for sure. Let me know if you need any more help, Katsu said before leaving the Missing person room.

Mayu let out a small sigh, their missing person was still out there, but it seemed they might be hard to get to. Nothing was surprising anymore when it came to locations where demons had been thrown or imprisoned at. Not wanting to waste any more time, she turned on her heels and walked over to the meeting table to go over what Sasa and his two other warriors found along with what Katsu had learned by using the shadows. 

Chapter 2

Kazuya was used to Mayu's late nights and overworking habits. However, tonight, he was surprised when she came home early. Checking his watch to see what time it was, he looked at her, puzzled.

you're home early, he said, getting up from the couch.

Mayu paused in the entry hallway of their three-bedroom house. Ever since she and Kazuya moved away from the shrine and she started working, Mayu rarely spent time at home. She didn't want to give her mind time to think over anything not work-related. Otherwise, she was scared her hard work at her new walls would break. Tonight she had not wanted to spend any longer around Jaxson after his attitude towards Katsu and then him pestering her the whole workday about why she was kind to someone like that.

Letting out a small sigh Mayu spoke, We finished our case early, and I needed to get away from Jaxson before someone hurt him, she answered, bending over to take off her boots. 

Kazuya stepped into the entry hallway to see Mayu bent over, putting her boots under the hallway table. On top of the table rested Mayu's badge and keys for the motorcycle she drives everywhere. It was given to her by Dusty when she passed all of her tests. She never brought her gun into the house. Even though she was licensed to carry it, she always left it at the station. She had told him once that she felt it was overkill since she was a demon and she was good at hand-to-hand combat. Mayu had also said she only carried it on their cases since they were out in dangerous areas at times, and she needed to keep her strength hidden until she had no choice but to use her demon abilities.

Jaxson is an ass. He only does what he wants and cares about nothing else. Ignoring him, how did that case go? Kazuya asked caringly.

Mayu stretched her arms while walking towards him. Her face was calm and almost expressionless. Walking with her back into the living room, they passed a doorway that led into the kitchen before entering the living room. That had a hallway off the left that leads into three bedrooms, a bathroom, and a laundry room tucked into the hallway.

We will be going out to find our missing person tomorrow morning. Thanks to Sasa and Katsu, we were able to find his location and the building he is being kept in, she answered.

Kazuya smiled. That is wonderful to hear. I hope the end result is a good one, he said, knowing not all of her cases have ended happily.

Mayu stopped walking just at the hallways doorway. I hope it turns out well, but I never know what I will find, she said, then walked away to go take a shower and change her clothing.

Kazuya shook his head. He could tell all of these cases took an emotional toll on Mayu, and this one was one of her harder ones to get through. With it almost over, he was worried about the outcome and how it would affect Mayu. She had built a wall after a month of the others leaving. She stopped talking about them as if they never had been here. She spoke more about Yutaka and Takashi but refused to mention Lokie or Leo. Last week she stopped caring if they would ever come back. It was as if ice had formed over that once warm place they held. Only he, Katsu, and Nishi were able to get close to her at this point.  He had gotten to adequately meet Katsu after moving out of the shrine due to him helping Mayu find a house, and he was part of her celebration party for her getting all of her exams completed and passed with high marks. For a shadow demon, the man was very kind and pleasant to be around. Lost in thought, Kazuya walked into the kitchen to fix dinner for himself and Mayu. 

Mayu woke early the next morning with an odd feeling like something terrible was going to happen. Shaking off the feeling, she hauled herself out of bed to get ready for their rescue mission today. Checking herself in her mirror, she left her room. The house was still dark, letting her know Kazuya was still sound asleep. Making her way quietly into the living room, she saw the dim light from the kitchen. There was a little window-like bar space that let you look into the living room from the kitchen. It was just enough to allow the small light above the sink to shine enough light into the living room that she could make her way around easily without ever having to turn on one of the bright lights. Making sure to grab something to eat, she stepped into the kitchen to find muffins. Taking one, she ate it slowly while moving to get her boots and badge. Putting them on, she grabbed her keys and left the house.

Morning, Sasa greeted when he saw Mayu park.

Mayu smiled. They didn't like crowding her, so they never stayed too close to her house, but they did stay near the station since it was close to the woods. 

Good Morning, Sasa, Mayu said in a sweet, kind tone.

Need help, Sasa asked, following Mayu into the station.

Today, we go get our missing. Do you want to come along this time? Mayu asked, stopping in front of her sector's double doors.

No, no, we stay here, Sasa answered.

Alright, making sure, Mayu said, walking through the doors to find the room empty. Making it easy for her to get some paperwork done before the rest of her team shows up.

Mayu had only been doing paperwork for about thirty minutes when a cup of hot coffee was sat in front of her. She didn't even have to look up to figure out who had brought her coffee. thank you, she said tenderly. Smiling, she looked up to be met by Katsu's onyx-colored eye. They seemed to have a darker tone to them this morning.

I figured you might be in here and in need of coffee and food, he said, setting down a take-out box. Raising one eyebrow, Mayu looked at him then the box sat in front of her. Smiling, Katsu sat down in a chair. He pulled up to her desk and opened the box to show pancakes and bacon enough for two people. 

Thank you, she said, not sure what else to say. She watched him get out a paper plate and a plastic fork before taking two pancakes out of the box and four bacon strips before holding it out to her with syrup.

your welcome, he said. Something about the way he was acting made Mayu concerned.

Is something wrong? Mayu asked, tilting her head slightly. Katsu almost choked on his bacon when she asked.

No, what gave you that impression, he asked, stunned he clearly didn't think she noticed.

Your eyes are darker than normal, and you're going extra this morning for me. This makes me wonder if you learned something in your shadows and are worried about something now, she explained, taking a bite of bacon. It gave him time to think of his explanation.

Katsu let out a small sigh. She was more observant than he had thought he would have to keep that his eyes gave him away in mind the next time he learned something he didn't like. Unsure of how to explain what he was feeling or what he was told by the shadows without casting trouble in her team, he let out a small sigh.

You're right. I did learn something. Will you please be careful today? I am not sure what I was reading, but I am not fully comfortable knowing you're going to find your missing today. I also know you won't hold off on getting him, so I just ask that you take extra care today when out, he said. 

There was a long silent moment before Mayu could speak again. I will be as careful as I can be, she answered, finishing up her food.

Katsu gave her a small smile. She could still see the worry in his eyes, hearing the commotion of Jaxson and Alex. Katsu got up, cleaning up the containers and plates. He walked out of her office only to have Jaxson glare at him. 

Come on, don't you sleep at home, why always where May is at Jaxson grumbled, only for it to turn into a growl when he saw Mayu walking out of her office not long after Katsu had walked out.

Katsu didn't say anything, just walked by, tossing the empty and dirty things in the trash before he left the area. He stopped when he saw Akane. She caught his dangerous glare making her shiver, but she never let him know she was scared of him right now. She just kept on walking. Izumi, who was already timid around men, caught the look almost at once, making her on edge until she entered the room with Mayu. Katsu shook his head. Walking away, he shoved his hands in his pockets. The shadows around him rippled and warped as if being attacked by too much light. 

Chapter 3

Once everyone had been briefed on what the day would consist of, Mayu's team quickly got the mobile hub loaded into one of the trucks with everything packed and ready to go, everyone geared up. Due to the area they were heading for, Mayu had to sit in the truck with Jaxson while Alex drove the other truck behind them with Akane and Izumi.

Everyone's audio and visuals are good, so we are set, Akane said.

Izumi looked at her ever since seeing Katsu glare at Akane. Something felt off. Akane had not made Mayu do her call-outs for her audio. Not liking the idea that Mayu was being targeted again by Akane, she spoke, May, I need confirmation that you can hear me, she said, getting Akane to look at her.

Mayu looked up from what she was doing to look over at Izumi. I can hear you. Is something wrong she asked, walking towards them.

Akane crossed her arms. Izumi went against her just now. The one time she chose not to have Mayu do her check Izumi went over her head to make sure Mayu could be heard in her ear. Mayu looked at Izumi carefully once they were in front of each other, leaving Akane to get angry.

We should get moving. It will take us a while to get to the location, Akane said, pushing past them. She made sure to hit Mayu's audio device with her magic to ensure that Mayu would not be able to rely on it for this case. She needed Mayu to suffer. It had been too long since she saw Mayu depressed, and it finally let her break free of her kindness. Her damn demon tried to bind her and keep her locked down.

Mayu looked at her then back at Izumi to see a conflicted emotion cross her face. She was angry and worried all at the same time. Something was really off about today, but they needed to go save Roka Wakita. Load up. We can head out now, Mayu said.

Izumi followed behind Mayu. She could tell something was off with the audio, but she had heard Mayu talk just now, but it felt like magic was attached to the device directly. Getting into the two trucks, they left the station to make their two-hour drive to where Roka was being held.

Two hours later and they had finally arrived at their location. It was isolated, and the building was once again concrete. Shaking her head, Mayu got out of the truck once Jaxson had put it in park. Moving to where Akane was now sitting in the back of the truck, she looked at Akane.

I want this building scanned while we take a look on the outside. Sasa said it looked a bit odd, like it might be rigged with explosives. I want to have those deactivated if this building is set up for that, Mayu said her confidence and authority only made Akane angry.

Sure thing, Akane said when Mayu turned around to start checking out the outside of the building. Akane glared at her. Who do you think you are? I will remind you how weak you are, and then you will be back down where I can get at you again, she muttered, acting as if she was taking a look at the building. She did find out it was rigged, but she had no intention of letting Mayu know about it. Today Mayu would either get injured or get her client killed. This would put Mayu back in her dark place where she should have stayed.

After about an hour of inspecting the perimeter of the building, Mayu and the others met back up with Akane. We found nothing on the outside. It seems clear. How about the inside, Jaxson said. 

Akane could not stop the smile that crept up on her face. I found nothing. It's safe to send Mayu in for the rescue, she said.

Holding her head high, she looked over her system, making sure Mayus gear would fizzle out the moment she entered the building. One good thing about Mayu thinking she was still good was that she was in charge of all the tech and gear. She could do whatever she wanted, and no one would think twice that she had done it on purpose. Jaxson would defend her so no one would be able to pin it on her.

May, Izumi said, catching the way Akane had said Mayu's name just now. She was now apprehensive about Akane and what she was saying.

Mayu looked at Izumi along with the others. Izumi fiddled with her clothing. I...I don't think you should enter the build just yet. I would like to look over what Akane has been looking at, she said, lifting her head to look Mayu in the eyes.

Akane could not believe what was happening. This woman lived with her but was now back to Mayu like a flip of a hat. We don't have time for you to look over anything I have done. You won't even know what you are looking at, she said, pretty much saying Izumi was too dumb to know anything about her software.

Alex clenched his fists. Izumi is his mate, and Akane was bad-mouthing her. Akane, just let her look. She is not stupid. She has been helping with the tech shit lately when you are off, he snapped.

Akane went silent for a moment before shaking her head. Alex, stop, we don't have time for this. We could be in danger here. We don't have time for her to go looking over what I said was clear, she said, glaring at Alex to hid the fact she was getting nervous that they might figure out she was setting Mayu up.

It's clear Akane is hiding something. Why else would she not show her screen? It's not that hard for the scanning software as it's been magically infused and can scan through massive amounts of material to show wires and other dangerous things inside a building. Izumi stated she was getting angry. She now knew for sure that Akane was up to something.

Izumi, leave Akane alone. Let May go save this poor guy. Stop causing this to delay, Jaxson said, standing up to protect Akane.

Akane smiled. She knew he would save her from Izumi and her accusing ways. Now she was safe, at least she was hoping. When she watched Jaxson tell Mayu to go and save their client Akane beamed with joy. Jaxson fell right into place with her plan. Now she could blame him later that he was the one who insisted that Mayu go inside even after someone had tried to delay them.

What the hell Jaxson, Izumi is right, something seems off about all of this, Alex said, turning to run after Mayu but was yanked back by Jaxson.

We have always trusted Akane. Why the hell would you go against her because a dead woman said something Jaxson said, glaring at Izumi, making her flinch.

Alex growled when he saw Jaxson scare Izumi. His tiger wanted to rip Jaxsons head off, but he didn't have the time he needed to go get Mayu and get her back out here. May, please come back out here. I think Jaxson or I should do this one, Alex said into his audio device.

Akane smirked. She knew Mayu would never hear him. She had disabled Mayus gear when Jaxson told her to just go and get Roka. Silence filled the area with Mayu not answering. Alex shook off Jaxson and ran towards the building only to stop when it erupted, causing everyone to hit the ground. The explosion was so massive it shook the ground, and fire roared to life inside the building, bellowing out the top where the roof had caved in.

May, Alex and Izumi shouted, jumping to their feet to rush to the burning building.

Before the explosion 

Mayu entered the building after Jaxson ushered her away from Akane and Izumi. She had not wanted to leave after having Izumi claim something didn't feel right and that Akane might be hiding something, but Jaxson was pushy and annoying. Walking through the building, Mayu could smell a strange chemical mixed in with the paint on the walls. Entering another section of the building, this area was huge and was lined with metal shelves layered with scrap metal and all kinds of other discarded junk. Looking around, Mayu found a door and went for it, taking her time and making sure to stay alert for anyone else in here or for there to be something that was not seen before.

Roka Wakita, I'm Mayu Foster. I have been looking for you, Mayu said, kicking in his door with demon strength. It was an old door and seemed to be sealed from the outside to keep someone in, not out.

Within the darkness of the room, behind the door, someone moved. Shortly after, a man stood in front of her. He looked worn out and like he had not eaten in days. Reaching into a bag, she cared. She handed him a snack pack she always had on her when doing a rescue mission. It contained fruit, veggies, and protein. It was light and would at least give them something to eat before getting to the medical ward at the station. The man looked at the small box being held out to him then back at her. Even with his sickly-looking face, his eyes shined bright.

My goodness, has it been really that long the man mumbled, taking the box from Mayu's hand.

I'm sorry it took so long. I only started this branch of the police force a couple of months ago, she said.

The man finished the food and smiled no, no, not that, you grew up. I have been kept here for so long you are now an adult and not a baby. Mrs. Foster must be so proud of you, he said but grew quiet when he noticed Mayu's eyes hidden sadness resided in them.

My mother was killed a year after you were captured, she explained gently to watch the man sink to the floor in front of her.

What about your father, My dear friend King Koji, he asked, hoping his friend was alive at least.

Mayu looked stunned for a moment, then spoke, My dad is doing well enough but is hunting for my mom's killer, so I can't see him and people hate him right now, she answered.

The man's eyes darkened the man who took me worked alongside a man Kazuki hated. The man was abusive to his own son and dumped the child in the cold. When Kazuki found out who the man was, his hatred for him grew. Fuyu is a good boy and didn't deserve the family he was born into. They treated him horribly, and the father abused and threw him out, hoping he would die. he said, pausing for a moment. He stood up and took Mayu's hands in his. Kazuki saved a lot of kids in his time from being abused or used as fuel for war. Your father rescued a fire demon named Kazuya and handed him over to Mrs. Foster in hopes she could teach him and raise him while he found where his parents had gone. While being stuck here, I found out that Fuyus dad and Kazuya's worked together and were looking for their sons to either make them work for them or to kill them, he said.

Mayu raised her head fire raged in her eyes. I dare someone to touch my brother or Kaz. I will end them myself, she said with hatred for whoever thought they could hurt them.

Roka chuckled you really are their child, no mistaken that aura and strong, powerful gaze of a priestess, he said. Mayu could not help but smile. She was praised just now for her protective nature. Ever since she had gained her father's powers, she felt more and more protective over her people.

How did you get taken? Mayu asked, not sure how he ended up here.

Roka let Mayu lead him out of his holding cell. Your father trusted very few people with his personal life. Joshua and I were the only ones who knew everything about him, including when he agreed to make a deal with a human woman to have a child with her. We were confused as to why he would agree to such a thing until we met her. She was the purest woman I had ever had the pleasure of meeting. In fact, I was a bit smitten with her. When Kazuki explain the situation to Joshua and me, we knew the love between them was that of good friends, and even they said so themselves, it was for the sake of a deal, but they cherished the idea of a child. When Hana gave birth to you, Kazuki asked if I would stay by her side and keep both of you safe. He was okay with even me marrying your mom and claiming you as mine, but he soon fell in love with you like any father should with their daughters. He could not let me take over being your dad and just asked that I keep you safe until he could take you with him. I could still be with your mom, but I could not claim you as my child, he said, looking up at the ceiling. 

What about the fox demon Leo, Mayu asked, wondering why Leo was hell-bent on thinking Kazuki had done wrong to her mother. 

Roka's eyes grew dark once more that foolish fox thought Hana was his. He had the idea that the poor woman was in love with him. He was also under the impression our king had wronged her and forced her to have his child. I could not stand him, but due to his leader, we let him come around. Takashi kept him in line and from causing trouble. he said, letting out a small sigh.

Mayu walked the same path as she took to reach Roka's holding cell only to hear something click when her foot landed on a tile on the floor. Freezing, Mayu knew what the sound was. It was a pressure-activated switch. It was linked up to something that was now activated. If she moved, she had a feeling the whole building would explode. 

Alex, I need bomb squad out here, Mayu said, but all she heard was silence and static. Her audio was gone.

May, what is wrong, Roka asked, stepping in front of her when she froze in place. He could see the process of her mind working to figure out something. Her eyes said everything he needed to know. Looking down, he noticed the tile she had stepped on was now push down and did not line up with the others surrounding it.

Roka, follow the hall behind you, and it will lead you outside, call for Alex or Izumi when you get out there, Mayu said. If she was going to die, at least this time, she didn't try to take her own life. 

I'm not leaving you in here, child. I would have died making sure your mother never had. My life is based on protecting others, he said, moving until he was inches from her. Before Mayu could react, he had pulled her into his arms and kissed her cheek. I Roka Wakita hand my clan of life force Demons to you. Take good care of them, May. They need your guidance once I am gone, he said.

Mayu could feel the tears rolling down her cheeks. He had dislodged her from the switch, and it was only a matter of minutes before the building would go. I Mayu Foster accept, and I will take good care of them, Roka, she said. The next thing she knew, she was being sent across the room. When his body began shaking, she was surrounded by gold, white and green light that soared around her.

If you see my dear friend tell him, thank you for me and that I am, so glad to have seen you again, he said before the room went dark on her, and she felt something stab into her before it grew hot and bright her vision blurred, and all that was there was darkness. 

Chapter 4

Alex had reached the building to watch the shadows shake and warp as it formed a sizeable door-like thing. The next moment Katsu stepped out and rushed towards the building. The fire seemed to also have strange behavior. Not wanting to waste any time, Alex shifted and dashed into the building. It was terrible, everything was scorched and still on fire. When he finally reached the center room where the fire had been controlled, he saw Kazuya and Katsu removing a shelf off someone they were cast in blue light. On closer look, he saw that it was Mayu. Running towards them, he stopped when he saw another body lying in the center of the room. His eyes were open and looking at Mayu. It almost looked like something had tried to rip him apart. There was blood everywhere around him and several deep and open wounds. 

Kazuya, do you have her? Katsu's voice rang out, getting Alex to look away from the dead man on the floor to where Mayu was now being picked up.

Her body was limp in Kazuya's arms. He could smell her blood coming from their direction. Shifting, he ran over. Is she dead? he asked, now aware of his panic. 

Katsu and Kazuya looked at him, stunned for a moment. Why are you in here they asked.

Alex flinched I was outside about to come in when the building exploded. Jaxson was fighting me from coming in before that. Izumi said she thought something was wrong, and I soon started to feel it as well. I wanted to bring her out, but her audio was out or something. She never heard me when I called her back out since Jaxson would not let go of me, he said.

Katsu gritted his teeth. He really hated that wolf now, but he had to worry about May. Right now, she was severely injured but alive. We need to get her out of here, he said, leading the way through the building.

Kazuya held Mayu in his arms. He was seeing red fire raged around them but never touched, but it showed his anger. Who was the central cause of Mayu almost dying today? He would find out, and they would pay. If it had not been for the blue light around her, she might have died. Stepping out into the fresh air, they spotted Dusty and many medical staff running towards them. 

I want May taken care of. Get her to the medical ward now, Dusty shouted. The medical team quickly got Mayu into their ambulance of sorts. Kazuya rode back to the station with the medical team while Katsu stayed behind to go over everything.

Chief, there is a body inside it looks like the case Detective Foster had been looking at and working on the last few weeks, one of the investigation team members said.

Before Dusty could talk, the area was filled with angry imp demons pointing and shouting at Akane, who was backed up against one of the trucks while Jaxson stood in front of her, growling at them. What is going on here he finally said, drawing everyone's attention, including the imps.

One of the imps stepped forward. Dusty had not learned any of their names, and now he wished he knew which one this imp was. Her bad, cause Master to get injured. Did not do job, the imp snarled, shaking a spear at Akane.

You have no proof Akane did this or that it was her fault, Jaxson said, protecting Akane just like she knew he would.

The imp rolled its eyes not stupid, we watch. We listen. May good her bad, the imp said before storming off but not before one stabbed Akane in the hand with its knife, making sure the cut was deep enough she would need medical. 

Jaxson growled and tried to go after the imp, only for his path to be blocked by shadows, and he was frozen. He felt like something was being ripped out of his body. Looking around, he found Katsu. He was standing on two shadows. One was linked to him. The other he followed to find it was linked to Akane. Feeling angry, he growled low and shifted only to find he still couldn't move. I will kill you, Jaxson barked, only no one could understand him, so they just stared at him.

I should have told May, who was behind my bad feeling, see shadows are my territory, and even your mind has shadows I can find. All shadows belong to me. I can read and understand them all, Katsu said in a cold eery tone.

Akane shivered. She knew he glared at her this morning. Had he already known about her idea from the start? I am sure you're just reflecting here, but I didn't do anything, so stop being a bully, she said, acting like she was hurting.

Izumi ran up at that moment and slapped Akane across the face. Her eyes were turning strange colors due to her anger you are the reason, you said it was clear when I asked to confirm you were scared and covered it up with causing a scene you knew it was rigged and still let May go inside, she shouted. Akane held the side of her face. 

I didn't know. I checked. It must have been hidden from my tech. Really it's not like I meant to get her hurt, Akane said, trying to sound hurt by the claim against her.

Izumi turned around to face Katsu. Alex and I both tried to get May to stay out here. For some reason, Jaxson and Akane wanted her to go in there and not let anyone else check to make sure it was clear. May's audio was also cut off. I noticed it when she never responded to Alex, and we never heard anything. We didn't even know she found anyone, she explained. Tears rolled down her cheeks. She was angry and scared. 

Alex walked up to Izumi carefully. He wrapped his arms around her, hugging her. He was shocked when she didn't pull away from him. He looked over at Katsu go to the station Izumi, and I will tell them everything. May should not be alone in case Akane or Jaxson wish more harm on her, he said, anger soared in his tone and eyes. Katsu released Akane and Jaxsons shadows, making them fall to the ground. Before anyone could talk, Katsu was gone.

Izumi was so angry and upset that she had not paid attention that someone was holding onto her. He was not doing anything other than hugging her while he talked when she was able to calm down, she noticed that the person who was holding onto her was Alex, and the persons he was talking to were Dusty and Tsubasa.  Alex had lightened his hold on her before she could even say anything about it. She wondered if he knew she was okay now and that he could let go. Alex glanced at her quickly once he removed his arm from around her.  

Alex, May was lucky today. If that man had not protected Mayu, she would have died instead Tsubasa said, his tone filled with anger and fear. Izumi had no idea what she had missed before she finally came back to her senses. How long had they been talking, and what has she missed?

Roka saved May's life by using his last remaining life force. He is or was a rare race of demon. They don't often go this far, though, Dusty explained, looking at the building that was now just smoking. The fire was dying down thanks to the firefighters.

Alex stared at the building, then behind him, where Jaxson was rubbing Akane's arm like she was the one who was hurt while the police officers questioned them. Chief, is there any way to remove Akane from our team? I know it was her fault that none of us could reach May and why no one could hear her talking at all. Izumi even tried to take a look at the software Akane used to scan the building to make sure things were safe, but Akane threw a fit and got Jaxson to help her send Mayu into the building. I feel she is a danger to May and the rest of us, he said. The last bit was almost a snarl as he spoke.

Jaxson had heard Alex and growled, shoving his way past the officers. He made his way over to Alex and Izumi. He mainly was glaring at Izumi. This is your damn fault. Had you just shut up and let Akane do her job, she would have noticed a change in May's gear and told us, he shouted, going for Izumi.

No one was ready for Alex to suddenly shift and attack Jaxson. His tiger took over. Alex was angry for many reasons, but one was the fact the wolf bad-mouthed his mate again, and two, he almost let May die. Dusty stood there stunned to watch Alex tear up Jaxsons arm and chest. He did some severe damage before Jaxson could shift. Even that did not protect him from Alex. The tiger was pissed, and everyone on the scene knew it.  No one tried to step in and stop Alex from hurting Jaxson, but when Jaxson finally got a hold of Alex, Dusty kicked him hard in his ribcage, sending the wolf rolling on the ground looking dazed he looked at Dusty.

Alex, are you alright, Izumi asked, kneeling down when he shifted back when his anger subsided.

I'm sorry, my tiger is really pissed, he said, sitting up with help from Izumi. Dusty walked over to him and kneeled.

I think now is a good time to head over and check on May. Why don't you both come with me. one of the others will drive the truck to the station, he said softly. He was not angry with Alex. In fact, he had damn near ripped Jaxson apart as well. However, as the head of the police force, he could not do that.

What the fuck Dusty, you kicked me but didn't stop Alex from damn near killing me, Jaxson shouted. The few medical team members that stayed behind looked at Dusty, wondering if they should help him or not.

You're lucky, all Dusty did was kick you, Tsubasa said, walking back from over where Akane had been sitting now. She was in handcuffs and was on the ground with one man holding her down. Jaxson growled. Why were they doing this? How could they do this to Akane? She has never done anything wrong before.

Fuck off, And get off her, Jaxson said, getting to his feet to help Akane when he was pinned to the ground.

I think it's time for the wolf to take a nap now, Dusty said.

Yes, Sir, the crime team said, making sure to inject the tranquilizing serum in his arm before dragging him away along with Akane.

Izumi could not believe what was going on. Something changed in Jaxson. He risked May's life today, yet he is always yelling at Katsu for being a horrible person.  She had yet to move from the ground after helping Alex to sit up. Her body was stiff and filled with anger and a newfound hatred. She wanted to end Akane and Jaxson before they could hurt May anymore, but she knew that was not the option.

Umi, are you injured at all Alex asked, worried he might have hurt her somehow. She slowly raised her head. The look in her eyes matched every demon surrounding them right now. "Why don't we