Knights of the Elements Book 1: Air

Chapter 1: Loss

Over the week, Kashin was healed from the infection. She was taken home to the house that belonged to April and Ken’Shinto. April carried the carrier with so much care, even Ken’Shinto wasn’t sure if she was going to make it through the door.

The house they lived in was a three bedroom house with a full built basement. It had an extra-large living room with a television, books, and tapes. The furniture was fairly new and still in perfect condition. The carpet was a light brown matching the soft white walls that were bare save the few pictures of Ken’Shinto, April and their families. The bedrooms were fair size. The two side bedrooms had a connected bathroom between them. The master bedroom had a single bathroom connected to it. The floors were soft stones in the bathrooms and the kitchen. The kitchen had been modern and even was connected to the washroom where the washer and drier set.

April glanced at the house from the outside thinking about what she may need to do in Kashin’s room. Ken read her mind and gently put a hand over hers.

“The house is as we left it. We already checked it twice.” Ken’Shinto assured her. April sighed.

“I’m worried. Your mother seen something coming after our baby.” April said. “I can’t let it happen.”

“April, my mother sees a lot of things.” He said flatly. “I doubt this one will come true.” He led his wife inside and into the living room where April set Kashin on the floor. Kashin had not woke from her nap that she started at the hospital. April expected Kashin to be fussy as she had been for the past week at the hospital however, on the ride home, Kashin fell to sleep. April looked down at her daughter. So small and fragile. She wondered what would happen if she was left alone to sleep. At once, April decided the child needed to sleep next to her at all times.

“She needs to be with us.” April announced.

“She is with us.” Ken’Shinto assured. “April, calm down. Nothing is going to happen to our baby.”

“Perhaps your right.” April said after a moment. She sighed. “I’m just….we’ve tried for so long. I can’t-“ She stopped. April and Ken’Shinto had wanted a child and attempted several times to have one. Finally they had one and she could not stop worrying. In truth, neither could he. Ken felt the need to hide his own worry from his wife so that he could be her strength in this time. She may have been a strong fey as he was a strong demon but she did just have a child and would need plenty of nurturing.

“April,” Ken’Shinto shut the door and then locked it. He turned to his wife and sighed. He walked to her and wrapped his arms around her pulling down his mask just to kiss her on the cheek from behind. April’s eyes were still on the infant in the carrier on the floor. “April, honey.” He said again. She moved giving a notion she was listening. “It’s okay. Kashin is going to be fine. We will do alright.”

“If you say such things.” April rolled her eyes suddenly and faced him. They kissed briefly before Kashin woke up and made a small sneeze. A small dying plant that was in the living room suddenly went back to full bloom. April and Ken looked at it and then at the child. April gasped at the sight and Ken sighed.

“She is a daughter of a fey and demon.” Ken said. “Her powers are sure to impress.”

“We will need to keep an eye on her powers.” April said putting a hand to her face. “I couldn’t bring that plant alive if I tried.” April picked up the carrier and walked down to their room at the end of the hall. Ken watched her a moment and then turned to open the door. When he opened it, Orion stood in front of him. Despite all the training in the world, Ken’Shinto felt his heart jump in his throat. He reached for a knife however Orion quickly cast a spell into Ken knocking him into the back wall.

“Hello Ken.” Orion said discreetly. Ken felt the strong dark magic around him holding him down. He felt himself choking and unable to move. “Thank you for letting me in. I will see to my needs at once.” Orion walked into the living room and past Ken’Shinto. He walked down the hall and into Ken’s and April’s room. April was laying Kashin down on the bed gently when he entered. April turned expecting to see Ken’Shinto.

“Maybe we should consider-“ She stopped when her eyes fell on Orion instead. She put herself in between the child and him. “Orion.” She hissed.

“April. How nice to see you.” Orion smiled softly. IT looked out of his demeanor however he accomplished such a scary thing. It sent shivers down April’s spine.

“What do you want?” April spat. Quickly she picked Kashin back up and held on to her tightly.

“I’ve simply come for what is owed to me and my wife Sina.” He said shrugging. “You see, years ago, you might remember, the day you stabbed my wife, you took away our ability to reproduce.”

“You shouldn’t reproduce.” April growled. Her wings came out again. Orion was in awe but kept his face and self-calm.

“Many say such,” He said quickly. “But do you know how much my love wants a child? She cannot go through another stillborn or another false pregnancy.”

“Sina has denied that right to herself by herself.” April backed up. Orion moved closer. “She turned on us years ago, I quite do not care for her now.”

“Then you do not keep your vow as sisters?” He asked knowing it would strike a note with April. April winced. “I see.” He said looking into her arms at the little girl. “How about I take her.”

“Don’t.” April put up a spell however Orion quickly cast another that held April in place. She could not move like her husband and was starting to choke from loss of air. Orion walked to April and took the child out of April’s grasp. He looked at Kashin.

“My my, a girl.” He breathed. “Sina always wanted a girl. Imagine such joy she will receive when I hand her yours.” Orion smiled at April who was sobbing despite her struggle to breath. “And you want to know what is best about her? She will never know of your pitiful existence.”

“Orion.” Came a deeper voice. Orion turned not expecting to see who he came face to face with. Keshaun stood over Orion because he was taller and bigger than the spell caster. Demons usually were but Orion was prepared to deal with such. What he was not prepared for was Keshaun’s wife, Rose, to be there to stop his spells. Rose stepped forward and he immediately felt his power waver. Just enough so she could pause his spells as she had always done. HE was powerless against the two together.

“Give me my granddaughter.” Keshaun demanded.

“Your granddaughter? Keshaun I was sure that you didn’t want any females to be born in your family because of your past.” Orion smiled again. Rose broke the spell on April and no doubt Ken’Shinto would be up soon. “She is going to be a well behaved bitch.”

“Don’t you talk about my granddaughter in such a way.” Keshaun warned. “You know that you are powerless here.”

“I am not powerless.” Orion growled. “Just denied of my right. I’ve come to take this from you.”

“Give me the child.” Keshaun warned again. Orion felt Ken’Shinto’s presence. And another. Then more. He sighed when he realized that he was not going to get the baby to Sina today. He handed over the baby feeling a knife on his neck.

“Do not think that I won’t come back for her.” Orion said grinning. “She is mine after all.” Then he was gone. Disappeared from site with no such as smoke, a blink, or even with a wisp. He was just gone. April collapsed on the floor. Ken’Shinto went to his wife quickly. Keshaun handed the baby to Rose and went to April at once. Rose was shocked to find that Kashin had slept through the entire ordeal.

“Are you alright?” Ken’Shinto asked April checking her over. Keshaun helped Ken get April to her feet and then to their bed. April and Ken sat on the bed. She started to sob. Ken pulled her into his arms and at once started to sooth his upset wife.

“Keshaun.” Rose said softly. He turned to his wife. “She’s still asleep.”

“His power did not wake her?” He glanced at the parents whom were still attempting to calm from the ordeal.

“No. Do you know what this means?”

“She will need trained.” Keshaun announced. April looked up at once.

“What?”

“Kashin will need trained. Self-defense, fighting, fey training…” Keshaun said again.

“No.” April shook her head. “My child is not just a wolf,” she stood at once and took the baby from Rose. “She cant be trained like one. She is not a dog.”

“April, Kashin is half of a warrior wolf. You cannot deny her right to learn how to fight.” Rose said softly.

“You will not train her.” April spoke sharply to Keshaun. Ken stood next to his wife.

“I will.” He said. April looked up at him. “April, our child will need to protect herself from Orion. The only way she can do so is by learning how to fight.”

“She is a hal-“ Rose started to say but April cut her off.

“No she is not.” April hissed. “Don’t speak of such things in my house.”

“As you wish,” Rose said gently. “However April, Ken’Shinto and my husband are right. The child will need to learn self-defense.” April paced around the room. She had just noticed Ken’Shinto’s brother in the hallway.

“What do you think?” She demanded of him. Ken’Shinto’s brother was as tall as Keshaun himself. He too had the dark purple demon markings from his mother, a softer jaw, dark gold eyes, black long hair tied back, a rounded nose and small lips. He didn’t have any wrinkles despite his age and was very well built. He preferred to be alone. He wore t-shirts and pants compared to his family and was considered a rebel. His name was Kean.

Kean didn’t like being in this predicament. HE didn’t even care that his brother had a child, much less that it was a girl. He only came along because his mother summoned him. Otherwise he wouldn’t have bothered to come at all.

“Do as you only wish.” Kean muttered crossly.

“That is not very helpful.” April snapped.

“April, please.” Ken’Shinto said. “Listen to us.”

“Alright.” April said after a few moments. “But she can only be trained by myself and Ken.”

“So be it.” Keshaun nodded. “Please accept my guards for the time being. Orion will strike again.”

“Thank you but no.” April spoke. “He will come again and we will be ready for him. Never again will I hold back because of my daughter.”

*************************************************************************************

Six years down the road, April knew she was right to do what she did however she questioned her ability to hold off Orion and his men for the time. Kashin had been taken numerous times and recovered safely by Ken’Shinto, Keshaun and Kean. April looked outside at her daughter through the window over the sink in the kitchen where she was washing dishes.

Kashin was short for her age. She was very slender and a little muscled though not too well built. She had a rounded soft jaw, silver eyes, long dark red hair that was currently in a ponytail and strangely white bangs. Her lips always looked as though they had been painted a soft shade of pink and her cheeks were always slightly rose kissed. It was hard not to fall in love with such a small child. Currently, Kashin wore a soft purple shirt with black loose pants and tennis shoes. She was outside with Ken’Shinto in the back yard practicing her kicks. Kashin was a very good fighter. Ken made sure of that.

April sighed. Soon, Kashin was to participate in a test that other children had been schooled for. A fighting test. They wanted to know how well she did. They being Keshaun. Kashin was very happy about it but April second guessed herself in wondering if it was really a good idea to let her participate. Young wolves were one thing, a halven was another. No. She wouldn’t call her child that. Kashin was not a halven. She was a child of a demon and fay. But she would never be a halven. Her wings were not angelic. In fact, the child had no wings. Shockingly to April, who expected the child to have wings of her own, Kashin took more of the demonic genes. She did not have any demon markings as those would come in time but she took to everything rather quickly. Reading, writing, spell casting, fighting. Especially fighting. April had let her gaze fall and realized she was thinking a little too much. Ken didn’t want her to worry. She shouldn’t. She trusts her husband and his ability to fight. Still. How much could a little girl take?

                “Mom.” April jumped. Kashin was always silent. Usually, only Ken could tell when she was around. April turned to Kashin and looked her over. Kashin was gazing at her mother intently.

                “Yes, what is it?” She asked.

                “Dad said you might need something.”

                “No?” April was confused.

                “You were staring at us.” Kashin said. Another thing their daughter had been able to sense. Whenever someone was watching her. She would wake up out of a dead sleep if April or Ken gazed at her too long. April shook her head and smiled.

                “Its nothing.” She promised. “Lunch will be done soon though.”

                “Okay.” Kashin turned to leave.

                “Kashin.” April called. Kashin turned back to her mother, her hair waving behind her in the ponytail.

                “I love you.” April said.

                “Love you too mom.” Kashin shut the door behind her and headed back out to Ken’Shinto. April sighed. Lately, she and Ken have been in several disagreements. She had a feeling things would not get better.

Two days later, Ken’Shinto glanced at Kashin once more before looking at the ring that had been set up for battle. She wore a black tight fitting fighting wear just as he wore his like usual. Usually it was used for older wolves who were prepping to join the wolven army but today, younger wolves would battle, not to the death, but to see how well they are progressing.

                “You know what to do.” Ken said to his daughter. Kashin blinked and nodded. He wrapped an arm around her and pulled her into his chest and kissed her head through his mask. Kashin was only just below his shoulders. She was smaller than most pups and undoubtedly stronger. After all, she was a child of a demon and fey.

                “Will Grandpa be here today?” Kashin asked. Ken nodded. His father already waited in the stands to see his granddaughter’s performance. Along with many others who he was sure Keshaun invited. Ken’Shinto didn’t want to put that much pressure on his daughter. She didn’t have to win. He just wanted her to show she could fight. She was homeschooled her entire life because no school would accept her. They all called her a filthy halven. She was not and would never be such a thing. She lacked wings. Ken seen more demon in her than the fay. However, she had something that even the strongest demon lacked. She was strong with magic. April had been teaching Kashin how to use it and focus her powers with it. It came with ease to their daughter.

                “Well?” Kashin said catching Ken’s attention. He was wondering off. This wasn’t like him. He smiled under his mask and nodded.

                “He is already in the stands waiting for you.” He assured. Kashin smiled. Ken’Shinto was sure that she could light up the world with her smile. It, like the rest of her, had flaws but brightened up anyone’s day.

                “Ken.” April had walked up with Rose. Kashin hugged her grandmother and then turned back to them. Ken nodded at his mother. Today, Rose wore a dark purple dress with her silver necklace and earrings. The color of the dress matched her demon markings. Her long white hair was braided back with purple flowers in it. “Are you sure she will be okay?” Ken looked at his wife. She looked more lovely in her own red faded sun dress with her own hair back in a braid.

                “I’ll be fine.” Kashin said without hesitation.

                “I foresee her fight going very well.” Rose assured. April sighed and looked at Ken. HE shrugged.

                “She’ll do fine.” He said. “We’ve taught her well.”

                “Indeed. It is almost time.” Rose said. Just then a bell sounded, the first round had begun. Kashin was third. She was already registered and ready. Ken put a hand on her shoulder and pulled her into him again.

                “Dad.” Kashin drug out and spun out from under his arm.

                “Yeah, yeah.” He waved it off and looked at her. “We should get going. Her round is soon.”

                “Sweetie, be careful.” April leaned down and kissed Kashin on the cheek. Kashin smiled boldly and nodded.

                “Yes mommy.” Kashin kissed her mother back in the cheek and then hugged her. She turned to her father.

                “Come April.” Rose said taking her arm and patting it. April glanced at them once more before going with Rose. Ken turned and led Kashin to the ring. He glanced at other parents who were with their pups getting ready for their own fight. Most of the parents glanced and nodded to the prince and his daughter. She was not as widely accepted as Ken had hoped. No school would take her. He tried just about everything.

                “Daddy,” Kashin said. Ken turned to his daughter. “The second round just began.” She said. Ken realized she was right and quickened his pace to match his daughters. They made it to the edge of the ring and watched the rest of the fight. The ring was rectangular with sand, rock, trees and water inside of it. It was a mile long and a mile wide. Cameras filled the first row and were on the sidelines along with those who were either proctors or parents who were allowed to watch from the sidelines. The walls of the ring were heavy cement and about 15 feet up. Then was the row of cameras, then about three feet up was the first level where all creatures could come and watch the fight. Keshaun was on the third level in special seating since he was the king. Rose and April would be there too. The seats were all packed. Ken realized it was a full house. He sighed. Kashin would need to win now. He couldn’t expect her to win but she had to.

                “Kashin.” He turned to her. Kashin looked up at Ken’Shinto. “Do your best okay?”

                “Of course. I’m going to prove that I’m not to be messed with.” She smiled and waved just as the proctor motioned for the third two contestants to come to the middle of the ring. Ken was in a state of shock. To hear such a thing out of a seven year old. It was almost unheard of. Still, she was part Warrior wolf. This was going to make her want to prove herself. Ken caught himself smiling. He expected nothing less from his little girl.

April sat next to Rose and already was on the edge of her seat.

                “April,” Rose put a hand around her. “She will be fine.”

                “I cant help but worry.” April replied. Rose handed her a cup of tea.

                “This will calm your nerves.”

                “What is it?”

                “Thymin root.” Rose said softly. “A tea to relax one.”

                “I don’t need it.” April pushed it away gently. Rose prompted her again to drink it.

                “I can tell you are upset.” Rose said.

                “How is that?”

                “Your wings are out.” Rose handed April the tea and April gave in and took a drink.

Kashin reached the middle of the ring and looked all around her in awe. The place was packed. Surely they came to see her. She smirked. She was going to destroy this person who she faced.  She turned to the other wolf. He was a teenager. He was taller, more built and looked more powerful than she herself. He had black short cropped hair, dark eyes, pale skin and even a piercing in his right ear. He looked down at Kashin just as she was looking at him. Seizing each other up.

                “Really?” The kid scoffed. “I’m to fight this?”

                “Be respectful of Princess Kashin.” The proctor said. The proctor wore much of the same as the students, a black outfit but also wore a very bright, neon yellow vest with reflectors on it. He had a straight cut jaw. A shaved head, wrinkles around his dark brown eyes. He looked bored with a slight hint of an annoyance.

                “Oh sorry,” The teenager said sarcastically. “I didn’t know she was the princess.”

The crowd went silent as the proctor introduced both Kashin and the boy. His name, as she found out, was Tarson. Then the proctor looked back at the two. Kashin noticed he had a scar right above his right eye. He turned to Tarson and said something and then he turned to her.

                “Ready?” The proctor asked. Kashin nodded. “Good.” There was a series of small beeps and then the proctor put his hand in between them. “Begin!”

Kashin jumped backward as Tarson lunged for her. She took out a set of knives that her dad gave her and held them up just as she was taught to protect herself from his blows. They were all soft. Kashin didn’t understand why he was holding back. Then she let her guard down and he hit her harder in the stomach. She curled under the pressure and then she put her guard up again. This time, instead of backing off, she charged. Tarson didn’t seem like he expected it. She used the butt end of the knife and hit him upside the head. Then she backed off again and put the knives away. This time, she was going to use magic. If and only if Tarson would stand still long enough.

                “Hey you.” She called. Tarson paused. “Don’t go easy on me because I’m a girl.”

                “As you wish princess.” Tarson grinned evilly showing his fangs. He charged. Kashin did a spell that knocked him back several feet without touching him. Then she pulled up the earth and managed to cover the boy. Just before she could finish, Tarson broke loose and charged for Kashin again. She pulled up her fists and changed her stance. Just as he landed next to her, she kicked. He blocked the blow and aimed for Kashin’s head. Kashin ducked and punched several times. Tarson was moving slower. She didn’t understand why. Tarson backed off and then kneeled coughing. Kashin noticed blood in his hands. She grew confused.

                “End.” The proctor said.

                “No.” Tarson stood up again. “I will fight her more.”

                “I said end.” Proctor reported again. “The girl has won.”

Tarson straightened up and held out a hand. Kashin knew better than to let her guard down but she shook his hand. HE picked her up and tried to throw her. Kashin turned and twisted in the air picking the boy up instead and threw him across the arena. The proctor got in between them and held up his hands.

                “I said END.”

                “Sorry.” Kashin apologized. “He was going to-“

                “Yes I know.” The proctor cut her off. “Now exit the field.”

                “Yes sir.” She dipped her head and then jogged off of the field. A medical team was running out to Tarson as she reached the edge of the arena where her father waited.

                “I don’t understand.” Kashin said. “I only did as what you taught but it hurt him.”

                “Kashin, these moves are to kill, not just wound.” Ken’Shinto replied. “You did what was expected of you.”

                “Oh.” Kashin knew she should have felt proud or something but she didn’t. She felt sorry for the boy. He was being carried off on a stretcher. “I hope I didn’t kill him.”

                “I don’t think you did.” Ken’Shinto said. He pulled his daughter into his chest and hugged her. “You did wonderful.” They then walked out of the ring and met up with Keshaun, Rose, and April. April looked down at her daughter and gaped.

                “My goodness.” She said. “Kashin, are you alright?”

                “Hm?” Kashin was too busy thinking about the boy. She didn’t notice until April touched it that she had a cut on her forehead. She winced as April touched it and pulled back just as any child would do.

                “Ouch.” She said.

                “Kashin.” Rose opened her arms and Kashin ran into them. “I’m so proud of you.”

                “It didn’t feel right.” Kashin said. “His blows were soft.”

                “No.” Keshaun was next to hug his granddaughter. “You are used to harsher blows.” Kashin looked up at him confused. “I assume that you at one time had bruises because of practice.”

                “Yes.”

                “Then you are used to harsher blows.” Keshaun explained. “I’m very proud of you Kashin. Keep up the good work.” He kissed her on the head and gently nudged her back to her father. “If you will excuse me.” He turned and left. Rose waved and walked behind him.

                “You’re hurt.” April said catching Kashin’s attention again.

                “Mom, I’m fine.” Kashin tried to push April’s hands away but was unsuccessful.

                “Let your mother see Kashin.” Ken said. Kashin’s hands fell and she stood still so April could see the cut on her head. April did a quick healing spell and looked over Kashin again. When pleased, she hugged her daughter. She had been at the edge of her seat the entire time racked with nervousness despite the tea Rose gave her. Her wings were still out and glittered in the sunlight.

                “Mom, I’m fine.” Kashin said once again.

                “Yes you are.” April pulled back and smiled at her. “Yes you are.”

A few months later, Kashin was ready for any fight. She was happy about fighting and grew close to Ken’Shinto. April was a little jealous but she smiled anyway. She loved them both more than life itself and hoped nothing would happen to them. However, she and Ken have had more arguments. April didn’t want Kashin to fight anymore but Ken said she needed to keep it up. He was teaching her on all weapons they had. Swords, knives, kunai, stars, and even more fist to fist combat. April didn’t like where this was going.

The phone rang and April jumped. She looked across the kitchen where the phone was and then quickly went to answer it.

                “Hello?”

                “Hello April.” IT was Keshaun. “Can you send Kashin and Ken’Shinto to the castle at once?” It sounded more of an order but April knew better.

                “Yes what is it?”

                “Something has arose that I need their help in.” Keshaun said. “You may come if you wish.”

                “Oh, yes.” She stuttered. Then the line went dead. April wondered what he would want. He usually was busy with other things and only visited with Kashin a few hours on a weekend. She hung up the phone and sighed wishing her own parents would accept their young girl. Rose and Keshaun always paid attention to Kashin. She was beginning to be a light in everyone’s life. Even Kean.

                “Who was that?” Ken’Shinto walked into the kitchen.

                “That was your father.” April said softly. “He wants you and Kashin at the castle at once.”

                “What does he want?”

                “I don’t know.” April turned to him. “I have a feeling he needs something from both of you that you may not be able to give.”

                “We will see.” Ken’Shinto replied. He turned to leave.

                “Ken.” April said suddenly. He turned back to her. “Its nothing.” She shook her head and waved him off. Ken’Shinto walked to April and pulled her into a hug.

                “Its something.” Ken’Shinto knew April felt uneasy about Kashin going to the castle this time. Something about what Keshaun said over the phone had unsettled her. “Its going to be okay. We will be fine.” He assured. April relaxed into him and put her head in his shoulder. Then she let go and sighed.

                “I want to go.”

                “Of course.” Ken’Shinto nodded. “Let’s go get packed. No doubt he wants us to stay a few days.” April nodded and called for Kashin. They would need to leave as soon as possible.

Ken’Shinto, Kean, Kashin and April all stood in Keshaun’s office. Rose sat on the sofa and sipped some tea. The office was large and had a glass door to a balcony overlooking the wolven lands, windows, walls lined with books and scrolls, two sofa’s facing each other and a small table in between them. He had a large desk that reached almost all around him but cut off at a 90 degree angle. The chair was a soft red and was very smooth feeling. The tables and couches seemed flawless. Even the lights around the room looked as though they were not used yet.

Kashin glanced around her. She had been in this office a few times but never when other people where here. She walked to Rose and sat next to her grandmother. Rose smiled and set the tea down. Keshaun was at the desk leaned forward with his elbows on the desk and his hands resting on his chin. He looked troubled.

                “How are you doing with fighting?” Keshaun asked Kashin.

                “I’m good…” Kashin said slowly. “I think.” She turned to her father. Ken nodded wordlessly. He had seen his father like this before and knew what it meant. April on the other hand had not and was confused by all of this. Rose sighed softly and put an arm around Kashin gently squeezing her. Kashin exchanged a glance with Ken’Shinto and then looked up at Rose.

                “I have a job for you.” Keshaun finally said. April snapped up like a soldier would when attention was called. She knew what that was. She had heard it before.

                “No.” April whispered.

                “A mission.” Keshaun straightened up and put his arms down on the chair. “And we need Kashin for it.”

                “What is it?” Ken’Shinto asked. Surely his father wouldn’t want Kashin to go on a bad mission.

                “A scroll was stolen from the wolves last night. I need it returned quickly and safely. I’ve sent other wolves for it but none can seem to reach it.”

                “What does the scroll entail that we need so badly?” Ken’Shinto asked his father.

                “IT holds codes that we need to keep hidden.”

                “You’ve sent others but none has succeeded?” April asked. “Why send Ken and Kashin?”

                “They have something my soldiers do not.” Keshaun said standing. He walked around his desk and to Kashin. “They do not have the magical abilities that my granddaughter has.” Keshaun paused and sat on the opposing couch facing Kashin and Rose. Rose did not like the sound of this but had remained quiet. Something was wrong about this mission.

                “You can be serious.” April said.

                “I am.” Keshaun said. “I, too, will be going on this mission. Kashin is not without protection.”

                “I can’t let you send my daughter out on missions like that!” April argued. Ken’Shinto took her by her arms. “Don’t Ken.” April said shortly.

                “April, I’m sorry.” Ken’Shinto said. “But she is a warrior wolf.”

                “She is just a child!” April said.

                “I can do it.” Kashin said making everyone fall silent. “I will do it.”

                “If you are sure.” Keshaun said. “You can back out at any time.”

                “I have to prove I can do it.” Kashin looked at Rose.

                “You don’t have to prove anything.” Rose assured. “We will love you no matter what.”

                “No. It’s not like that.”

                “Who do you have to prove yourself to?” April demanded.

                “Well, everyone.”

                “No.” April stepped away from Ken and walked to Kashin. She watched her mother approach her and then watched at April kneeled in front of her. “You do not need to prove anything to anyone.”

                “They will not accept me until I do.” Kashin said simply. April shook her head.

                “Who, honey, who?”

                “The wolves.” April wanted to cry out in frustration but she remained silent. Kashin was just a child. There was no reason or way that she could or would let her go on a high ranking mission. Even at Keshaun’s order. There was no way. She turned to Ken’Shinto wondering why he would not say no. HE needed to say no.

                “Ken.” She stood again. “You cant…”

                “I’m sorry. Its duty.” Ken’Shinto said. April felt color leave her. She felt her heart fall on the floor. The fact that Ken would let duty come between them hurt her more than what any word could explain. It is his fault. It would be his fault.

                “We leave at once.” Keshaun said standing. “Can you prep Kashin?” He asked Rose.

                “I don’t believe we should move so fast.” Rose said. “April still is in a state of shock. We need to get her to calm down.”

                “I do not have the time.” Keshaun said. “It cannot wait.” He turned and walked out of the door. April sat on the sofa taking Keshaun’s place. Rose quickly went to her. Kashin looked at her father who nodded at the door. Kashin jumped up and walked out of the room.

                “She will be in the best of hands.” Rose said softly to April. “There is no need to worry.”

                “Ken, how could you?” April asked staring at the wall. Tears ran down her cheeks.

Kashin was prepped and ready for the mission. Ken’Shinto sighed mentally. How could he agree to such a thing? Duty called but so did his responsibilities as a father. Still, the fighting urge to do what his father ordered struck him in his mind. Kashin had never been on a mission before. Nor had she fallen under the king’s orders. Not like this. Ken’Shinto felt his fur rise. He wanted to curse his father. It was his fault.

                “Ken’Shinto.” Keshaun said. Currently, they were all in their wolf forms. Ken’Shinto was the only pure black wolf in the pack so far. The other wolves were too ready for the mission. Each had been prepped for this.  Kashin had yet to unlock her abilities to shift to a wolf so she rode on Ken’Shinto’s back. It wasn’t out of the norm for her. He had given her rides a lot while she was growing up. She loved it. He felt her shift on his back and then she put her hands around his neck hanging on.

                “Yes.” Ken’Shinto said.

                “You will be with the other team. You and Kashin know what to do.”

                “Yes.” Ken’Shinto nodded. He felt Kashin shift uneasily.

                “Do you wish to back out?” Keshaun asked Kashin. She shook her head no. “Alright, we split here.” And just like that, he walked off with a team of wolves. Ken’Shinto walked the other direction with the other wolves following him. In a short five minutes, he was at the point they were to shift. He kneeled and let Kashin off of his back before shifting to human form. The others shifted too. He looked at each of them and then nodded. Two of the wolves that were with him went forward and disappeared from sight. Ken’Shinto checked Kashin over once more.

                “Dad I’m fine.” She said.

                “I know.” He said. “Listen, if something goes wrong,”

                “But grandpa won’t let it.” Kashin said. Ken nodded.

                “I know, but if it does, you run away from here. Don’t look back. You run to the castle.”

                “Yes Daddy.” She said. Just then, they heard the signal. Ken nodded to them and led the way into the mansion. The mansion was old, creaking, had holes in the roof, broken shingles and broken windows. Ken’Shinto wondered why the dark ones would choose such a place to hide the scroll. Something wasn’t right.

                They entered the mansion silently and quickly. The two guard wolves went and did what they were to do. Ken’Shinto led Kashin to the room that he was told the scroll was in. It was on the third floor in the second door to the left. Not even a creak sounded from where Kashin walked. Ken was relieved when he made it to the room without issue. He kneeled and looked to Kashin.

                “You know what to do.” HE said softly. She nodded. “Go.”

Kashin went into the room, Ken’Shinto heard soft scuffle and her search the room. Within seconds she came back out.

                “Dad its not here.” She said.

                “What?”

                “Its not here.” She said again. Ken’Shinto went into the room and began looking. The scroll indeed was not in this room. Ken’Shinto felt his heart sink. This was one thing and one thing only. A set up.

                “Go.” He said. Kashin went out of the room and cried out. Ken’Shinto rounded the corner with a knife drawn and ready to attack. A guard wolf held Kashin by the hair and held a sword to her neck. Ken’Shinto knew he was surrounded before the others did.

                “Drop your weapons and the girl won’t get hurt.” The guard wolf took off his mask. His jaw was softly rounded but large, his nose was large, dark red eyes, and stood as tall as Ken himself. Ken didn’t see any alternative. He needed to get Kashin out of here and quickly.

                “Let her go Horace.” Ken’Shinto ordered. “You can take me one on one.”

                “As tempting as that is, I cant. You see, we need to know how to open the scroll.” Horace said. Ken’Shinto thought about what Keshaun said. The scroll did have a spell on it. If it was opened by hands other than Keshaun’s then it would burn. “And plus I’m taking orders.”

                “From who?” Ken’Shinto asked.

                “Orion.”

                “Of course you are.” Ken’Shinto smarted off readying for attacking. Horace tightened his grip on Kashin’s hair and then pulled her up higher. He let the knife slide on her neck without cutting it. Kashin was still confused. She didn’t know what was going on.

                “Nah uh. “Horace said. “Drop your weapons.”

                “What if I were to howl?” Ken’Shinto was trying to drag this out. Keshaun would notice their presence missing and know something was up.

                “Then the girl dies.” Horace said shrugging. “Makes no difference to me. She is a filthy halven.”

                “She is not a halven.” Ken’Shinto hissed.

                “I will give you five more seconds.” Horace tapped the knife on Kashin’s neck. She looked at her father. Ken made eye contact and knew she had a plan. Suddenly, she turned and kicked Horace. He had lost his grip on the girl and fell backward. Ken’Shinto darted forward and grabbed Kashin. Then he ran as fast as he could. IT wasn’t enough because just a few feet from the door, Ken’Shinto was blocked off by dozens of Orion’s guards. He let Kashin down so she could fight and began to kill as many guards as he could to protect his daughter.

Horace had come back and grabbed Kashin again. She fought and kicked as hard as she could but now nothing fazed the wolven guard.

                “Why did you turn against us?” She asked.

                “You misunderstand me.” Horace said to the girl. “I was never with you in the first place.” He took out a whip. “And you will pay for it.” Kashin got up to run away and felt a lash at her back. She fell to the ground gasping for air.

Ken’Shinto heard the whip crack and ran to Horace but was pulled back by many guards. The whip cracked again and this time Kashin cried out. Ken’Shinto shifted. His wolf form would do better. He needed to save his daughter. The whip cracked again. Kashin curled into a ball sobbing. Ken’Shinto raised his head and howled.

                “Damn you.” Horace said. He raised the whip to hit Ken but then stopped and smiled evilly. He turned and snapped the whip on Kashin again. She cried out. She was trying to get up but she was in pain. Even Ken knew that. He broke the round of guards and was held back by a chain. Devils chain. Hard to break. He had to move quickly. The whip cracked again.

Just then, the wall fell forward and Orion himself came forward. He dropped the scroll at Kashin’s feet and went to Horace. He grabbed him by the neck and made the whip go around his neck. Horace started to choke. Orion nodded and Ken’Shinto was let go. He ran to Kashin. She was unconscious. Whip marks covered her back. Her shirt was torn and blood ran out of her. Ken’Shinto shifted to normal and turned to find Orion but he and Horace were gone. The only thing that remained inside the mansion was Ken’Shinto, his daughter and Orion’s men who were prepping to fight again. More wolves suddenly came into the room and began to fight. Keshaun was right behind them.

Keshaun picked up one of Orion’s men with his mouth and flung him backward and into a tree. Then all hell broke out. The wolves quickly and efficiently killed all the men and Keshaun turned his attention to Ken’Shinto. Ken’Shinto was on the ground holding his daughter and sobbing.

                “Come, we haven’t much time.” Keshaun said. Ken pulled Kashin up and quickly got on Keshaun’s back. The large wolf turned and ran toward the castle.

Rose knew something was wrong when she heard the howl. She tried to hide it. She didn’t want to stress April any more. The poor fay was pacing around the room distressed. Her wings were out and her cheeks were covered in tears. Her hair was frazzled and she was shaking. Rose added an extra drop of a calming potion to April’s tea when April wasn’t looking.

                “April, all is well, come and have some tea.” Rose assured. “They will be back soon.”

                “I can’t believe that Ken…He just took the orders….” April muttered and paced around the room. “That’s my baby.” April stopped and looked at Rose.

                “Yes, she is but she is the daughter of a prince to the wolves.” Rose said softly. “Come sit.”

                “I can’t Rose. I can’t do this.” April said. Rose nodded. She was much of the same way when Keshaun made Ken’Shinto and Kean go on their first missions. They returned with no issues of course but Rose knew this was not going to be the case tonight. She didn’t know how but she knew.

                “April, come now.” Rose said softly. April walked to her and laid her head in Rose’s chest. Rose wrapped her arms around April and sighed softly. “IT is going to be alright. They are fine.”

                “I know something is wrong.” April said pulling back. “I just know it.”

                “Oh April.” Rose sighed wondering how she was going to explain that a howl was sounded and that her superstition was right. Something was wrong.

The door opened and a guard came in. Rose and April turned to him. The guard bowed and kept his eyes down.

                “What is it?” Rose demanded.

                “It’s the princess.” That was all he had to say to set April over the edge.

Keshaun sounded a howl while running. He was surrounded by guard wolves at once and he barked orders left and right. Ken’Shinto held Kashin worried about his daughter. Within minutes they arrived at the castle. Keshaun let Ken’Shinto slide off his back and shifted. He took the girl from Ken’Shinto’s arms and rushed into the castle. He went right to the hospital wing and set Kashin on the hospital table. He ripped her shirt off and turned the girl on her side. Blood poured from the gashes on her back.

                “Friend.” Keshaun heard Keoko enter the room. “Allow me.” Keoko gently pushed Keshaun aside and began at once to heal Kashin’s wounds. He was pushed out of the room by a nurse. He was out in the hall and the door shut in his face. This had never happened to him and he was filled with shock. Kashin was dying.

                “Keshaun.” Rose had came into the hallway. He turned to his wife forgetting about the blood on him from his granddaughter. April seen it and screamed out falling on her hands and knees. Rose gently pulled April to her feet and pulled her away.

Keoko came out of the room. He was clean. No blood was on him. Keshaun expected as much. He too had taken the short time to clean himself up. No more blood was on him. He stood. Keoko sighed.

                “They were bad whip marks.” He said softly. “I healed what I could but the child is going to have scars for the rest of her life.”

                “She is alive.” Keshaun was relieved.

                “She is very much alive.” Keoko assured. “Her heart didn’t stop once. She lost a lot of blood so I am keeping an IV on her. She will need to keep off of her feet for a couple of days and plenty of rest.”

                “Will you stay?” Keshaun asked.

                “I’m not planning to leave.” Keoko replied. “I do not think it was wise to send her in such a mission.”

                “No.” Keshaun felt his shoulders slacken. This was a first for him. “How is she?”

                “She is awake.” Keoko said. “Do you wish to see her?”

                “Yes.” Keshaun said. Keoko nodded and turned to the door. Before he opened it, he turned to Keshaun.

                “The girl is on heavy pain medication. Do not be fooled by what you see. She has changed.” Keoko warned. Keshaun nodded. He felt that he too had changed. Never again will he underestimate Orion’s men. Keoko opened the door. The room was plain. White walls, fluorescent lights, hospital bed, white sheets, white cloth, white. Keshaun realized how much he hated the color. It was too plain. Keoko stepped aside and Keshaun seen Kashin. She was sitting up without any emotion. It was unlike her. HE walked to her side and took her hand. Kashin looked up at him a moment before she lowered her head. Keshaun pulled her head back up by her chin.

                “I failed.” She said weakly.

                “No. You didn’t.” HE assured. “It wasn’t your fault.”

                “It was… he called me a filthy halven.” Kashin looked as though she was going to cry. Keshaun felt himself break inside.

                “No,” He said to her and pulled her into his chest. “You are not anything of that.”

                “What is a halven anyway?” Kashin pulled away. Keshaun looked at the little girl.

                “Do not worry about such a thing.” He said. There was a knock at the door and April rushed in. She hugged Kashin sobbing.

                “My baby.” April sobbed. Keshaun moved out of the way and looked at the door. Ken’Shinto entered the room and went to the other side of Kashin’s bed. Keshaun left the room. He needed to speak with Rose.

Kashin was asleep by the early morning. She laid in April’s arms. April had calmed down, so did Ken’Shinto. He sat on the side of the bed. April was on the bed with their daughter brushing her hair back. Rose had come in and braided it earlier.

                “Ken…I can’t take this anymore.” April said weakly. “I can’t deal with this.” Ken looked up. His heart fell with the sound of the next words that April said. “I want a divorce.”

*************************************************************************************

Orion held Horace by the throat.

                “This child.” He said. “Was not to be harmed.”

                “She’s just a-“ Horace choked.

                “None of the less, I have another plan for you.” Orion said. “And you will do as I say.”

 *********************************************************************************

Kashin healed in no time and she was back at home but she had indeed changed. She smiled less, was less interested in fighting and she wanted to be left alone more. April didn’t understand this and blamed Ken’Shinto for this. Ken’Shinto tried to get Kashin to stay next to them but she often wondered off. Once or twice she went back to the castle on her own just to see Rose. She had got in trouble both times and grounded but that did nothing to phase her.

Kashin sat under one of the trees that surrounded her home. The grass grew green and was soft under her. She wore her fighting cloths. Her father had asked her to meet him outside and she assumed he wanted her to practice. She failed him so it was expected. She heard yelling from inside the house. That yelling had not stopped since she had come back from the castle. Her mother and father were always fighting. Kashin sighed and looked around her. Nothing looked happy to her again. The door closed catching Kashin’s attention.

                “Come on.” April said sternly. Kashin stood watching her mother put the last of their things in the car. It had been happening all day. She didn’t understand what was going on. Ken’Shinto walked out of the house a little slower and looked to Kashin. “Come on.” April said again.

                “April.” Ken’Shinto said softly. April turned to him and then looked at Kashin. Kashin was crying. April sighed and walked to Kashin. She kneeled in front of the girl and hugged her.

                “We’re going to stay with your uncle Jake.” April said. “It will be okay.”

                “You mean we’re leaving Daddy?”

                “Yes. He’s not coming with us.” April said softly. “I’m sorry Kashin.”

                “But….” Kashin cried more and pulled away from April. April watched the girl run to her father and hug him. He wrapped his arms around her. “We can’t leave daddy.” Kashin said.

                “Kashin, go with your mother.” Ken’Shinto said softly. “She needs you to be with her.”

                “But don’t we need you?” Kashin asked.

                “Well.” Ken’Shinto kneeled and took off his necklace. Then he put it on Kashin. “You will understand when you are older.”

                “But I don’t want to understand…why?” She cried. April sighed and walked to the girl.

                “Kashin, its time to go.” April said softly. Kashin held Ken’Shinto again. He hugged her back.

                “Sweetie, you will come back to see me.” Ken’Shinto said. “I’m not going anywhere.” Kashin pulled back and looked at them. April nudged her to the car and then helped her into the packed sedan. Kashin watched out the window as April said her last words to Ken’Shinto and then watched as April climbed into the driver seat of the sedan.

                “Good bye Ken.” April said bitterly. She started the car and drove away. Ken’Shinto watched his wife and daughter drive down the road. He watched them long after they left from sight. Little did he know, things were about to get a lot worse.

April drove silently down the highway. She had tried numerous times to get Kashin to talk but nothing worked. The girl was silent the entire drive up to this point even. She just kept looking out the window and holding the necklace that Ken’Shinto gave her. April sighed.

                “Honey, why don’t you talk to me?” April asked.

                “I miss daddy.” Kashin said emotionlessly.

                “Sweetie, I know this is confusing for you but it is for the better.” April struggled with the words. They had been driving for days and now they were on the last stretch to the Hidden Kingdom. The ocean was on their left and a mountain was on their right. The sun was high in the sky and the heat was very dry. April seen the bridge to the Hidden Kingdom where her brothers would be. She sighed. It would be the very first time they have seen her in years. She had no idea what had changed there and she had no idea what to expect. Only that her parents were right and that she had to give Kashin a brighter future than fighting and missions.

                “Why?” Kashin finally faced April.

                “Honey, I’m sorry.” April said. “Your father and I are at differences and we cant solve this problem like we have other times.”

                “What is so different about it?” Kashin asked. April sighed again and tried to find the words but none came to her. She turned and looked at Kashin a moment and put a hand on her face.

                “I’m sorry.” She said. She turned back to the wheel and slammed on the brakes. April felt her heart stop as she crashed into the side of something large and black. Whatever it was, it roared in pain. Still dazed by the accident, air bag and such, April looked up. Kashin too was dazed. The large black creature stopped roaring and hit the car on Kashin’s side. The car flipped over the side rail and rolled down the cliff all the way to the bottom where a beach was. On the way down, April tried to hang on to the car and Kashin at the same time but it was almost impossible. Kashin hit her head on something and a gash appeared just above her brow. Then she hit the back of her head on something. Glass shattered and cut them both. April felt her neck snap and then felt the air leave her. The car had stopped rolling and was upside down. April hung from the seatbelt and looked to Kashin.

                “My baby.” She reached out for her but Kashin drifted from her sight.

*************************************************************************************

Kashin didn’t know who this lady was next to her but watched as she died. She used a knife from her pocket and cut the strap holding her up. She fell to the roof of the car with a thud. Grimacing in pain, she kicked the windshield out and crawled out of the car. Where was she? Who was she? She was Kashin. But that was all she knew. She knew she had to get help. Help for the dying woman but she didn’t know where to turn or anything. She heard screaming. Something was screaming and coming towards them. Kashin looked around dazed and confused. Just then a dragon landed beside her, he folded his black wings and looked down at her. Kashin looked up to him and watched as he looked her over.

                “Kashin, are you alright?” HE asked. “What hurts? Where is April?” The dragon asked frantically. Kashin felt her vision fade and then grew dizzy. She knew this dragon would take care of her but she didn’t know who he was.

                “Who are you?” She asked. The dragon stopped and helped her sit in the sand. Then he laid her down and made her stay still. HE glanced in the car and then shook his head. HE was silent a moment and turned back to her. “Who are you?” She repeated.

                “It’s alright.” He assured. “Everything will be alright.” Kashin shut her eyes.

*************************************************************************************

Jacob was one of the twins that April was related to. The other was Joseph. Their older brother was Aiden. Their last names differed and they never knew why. Jacob looked over the paper before him one last time. He was about 30 years old with slight wrinkles around his eyes, a bald spot on his head under his red ball cap. He wore a red jersey with blue pants. He was about 5 feet 6 inches tall and had a slight beard growing. His hair was dark brown with red highlights. His eyes were green and he was well built. His brother resembled him but grew hair, was without a mustache and was very thin. Aiden on the other hand was well built, had black hair, green eyes, and stood a little taller at 6 feet.

                Jacob looked over the sheet again. His mind had been wondering a lot lately. He was thinking about April. She called him sounding upset. She wouldn’t explain why. She just said that she was coming home with his niece, Kashin. Jacob had never met Kashin before and had only spoken to her briefly on the phone. She didn’t even know her cousins. Speaking of which, they would soon get along. Or so Jacob hoped.

                Midnight, Chris and Christine would love to meet their cousin. They all already said so when they found out that April was coming. They spoke with April over the phone so they didn’t know them either but they would meet and be friends. Without a doubt, Jacob prayed. Speaking of his daughter, he looked around and his eyes caught the TV. A newsflash was on there about a car accident that happened just outside of the kingdom. It was a roll over. He felt sorry for the souls that had to go through it. Just then his phone rang. He picked it up not realizing that his worst nightmare had possibly come true.

                “Jacob, its Keoko. You need to come to the hospital right away.”

                “Why?” Jacob asked.

                “Because that crash you see on the Television was April’s.”

Jacob rushed to the hospital and began to panic. He wouldn’t know what to say to his niece. He didn’t even know her. Joseph met him at the door with Aiden.

                “Do the kids know?” Jacob asked.

                “No.” Aiden said.

                “How did this happen?”

                “We don’t know. Keoko wont let us in.” Joseph said.

                “He called us and told us we had to come to the hospital at once.” Aiden said. “So I came but he is too busy fending off reporters. They want to get to Kashin.”

                “How dare they.” Jacob scoffed. “I will order them to stop at once.” Jacob was the king to the hidden kingdom. His parents retired from the job just before Midnight was born. He thought of his wife and daughter that were out at the time with the twins, Chris and Christine. “We should call them and get them home.”

                “Do you think Orion was behind this?” Joseph asked. Jacob stopped and looked around. Orion was trying to take over the kingdom and had been for years but the Hidden Kingdom was strong and fended him off every time so far.

                “Well?” Aiden prompted when Jacob didn’t answer.

                “I don’t know.” He said honestly. “I need to get to April and Kashin.”

                “Gentlemen.” Keoko had just walked to them outside of the hospital. “Come quickly.” They followed Keoko inside the hospital and past a series of guards and reporters to a single room located in the ICU.

                “What’s going on, where is April?” Jacob demanded.

                “Wait.” Keoko opened the door slowly and gestured the gentlemen inside. They walked inside the room and looked around. The room was plain white with windows but the white blinds were closed. The lights were off except for the bathroom light which was on to the side of the room. There was an IV drip going into a small body that was covered up by white covers on a hospital bed. She was sat up and looking at them curiously. Jacob seen his niece for the first time aside from photographs. He was shocked that she looked the way she did. She had a bandage on her head, an IV in her left arm, a boot on her right foot and she was very pale. Her red hair stood out the most.

                “Kashin.” HE said walking to her. “I’m your uncle from April’s side. My name is Jacob but you can call me uncle Jake.”

                “Who is April?” She asked confused. Jacob looked to Keoko.

                “She has amnesia. She had a slight brain injury which caused her to lose all of her memories.” Keoko explained. “She knows who she is, how to fight and the basics but that is just about it. She doesn’t know who anyone is or where she is from. “

                “I thought you said I was from a different land.” Kashin said confused.

                “You are a warrior wolf.” Keoko said softly. “Do not worry about it.”

                “Am I in the wolven lands?”

                “No. You are in the Hidden Kingdom.” Jacob said. He didn’t know how to explain the kingdom to the girl. She had never been here before. He could tell anyone else about the kingdom, tours, attractions, food, culture and so on but he couldn’t find a way to explain to his own niece about the kingdom.

                “You all will need to reintroduce yourselves.” Keoko said. “And I need to call Ken’Shinto.”

                “HE doesn’t know?”

                “I don’t believe so.”

                “This is going to kill him.” Joseph said. Jacob agreed.

*************************************************************************************

Thousands of miles away, the phone rang. Keshaun answered. HE was watching the news and just noticed the crash that they were talking about. He became interested when the reporters said it was in the Hidden Kingdom. Ken’Shinto had explained everything to him. He blamed himself for what had happened to his son and granddaughter.

                “Hello.” Keshaun said promptly.

                “Keshaun, I need to speak with Ken’Shinto.” Keoko said sounding both upset and very alert.

                “What is going on?”

                “There was an accident.” Keoko started to explain.

 ****************************************************************************************

Midnight wore a green shirt with blue pants. Her hair was light brown with blond highlights. She had green eyes, was a little heavy set, strong arms and legs, small nose, pink soft lips and soft rosy cheeks. She was seven years old. She looked at her cousins who were also seven. Christine stood as tall as Midnight. She had black hair, glasses, was very slender, and had tannish skin. Her eyes were green as well and she had a small nose and mouth. Chris on the other hand was taller than the two girls, had blond hair, blue eyes, and was very well built. He had a small nose and small lips.

They exchanged a glance in the back seat of a car while Jenni drove. Jenni was Midnight’s mother. Jacob was her father. Aiden was the father of Chris and Christine. Jenni had soft rosy cheeks, small nose, small mouth, medium built, blond hair tied back in a ponytail and wore a pink shirt and blue shorts. She was on her way back to the castle when she turned on the radio and heard the news about a really bad car accident just outside of the kingdom.

                “Nothing important about the accident.” Jenni said. She turned the station to music and they listened to the music all the way back to the castle. When there, Jenni walked through the door with the kids behind her. She found a note next to the door. Jacob had to leave. It said he would explain later.  

                “It’s nothing…” She told herself although something felt wrong. Orion had more than likely attacked again.

 **************************************************************************************

Kashin healed quickly and was moved to another unit for care. In this unit, the rooms were purple, the lights were a little brighter lamps sitting on a nightstand on either side of the table. She was getting used to having her uncles around but did not expect to see any children her own age.

Aiden brought Chris and Christine with him. Midnight decided to tag along. They all walked into the hospital room one by one and then greeted Kashin.

                “Hello cuz.” Chris greeted Kashin like he had known her his whole life. Christine just shyly smiled and waved.

                “Hiya.” Midnight said. “We’re here to help you.”

                “Help me?” Kashin asked uncertain.

                “Hush.” Aiden said to the kids. “Kashin these are your cousins. Chris, Christine and Midnight. Keoko thought it might be a good idea to have you around other children around your age.”

                “Oh.” Kashin didn’t seem to interested.

                “I think we should play a round of bingo.” Midnight had a pack with her. Chris also had a pack with him.

                “I say we play Uno.” He demanded. Midnight crossed her arms and stuck her tongue out at Chris.

                “Bingo.”

                “Uno.”

                “Guys, this isn’t exactly helping.” Christine cut in. Kashin was gazing out the windows. She didn’t even notice them fighting.

                “Okay, how about-?” Chris was about to say but Keoko cut him off by walking into the room. Aiden had sat in the corner of the room and watched the kids.

                “Lunch.” Keoko said. He looked around the room. To the side of Kashin’s bed was a tray full of cold food. It was delivered before anyone had come and again for the third day, Kashin did not eat. Keoko sighed softly and looked to the girl. She was gazing up at him with the blank look. She rarely had any emotion to her. That was so unlike Kashin.

                “Kashin, you were supposed to eat.” Keoko said softly.

                “I’m not hungry.” She responded.

                “How long has it been?” Aiden asked.

                “Three days now.” Keoko answered. The kids all looked at each other and then they looked at their cousin.

                “You haven’t eaten in three days?” Midnight asked in awe.

                “I’m not hungry.” Kashin repeated.

                “We have an emergency.” Chris said to the others. “We need to get Kashin food.”

                “Lets run to the store and buy her stuff.” Midnight said. “I’ve got 20 dollars.”

                “I’ve got 10 dollars.” Chris held out his allowance. Christine smiled softly and handed her own 10 dollars to Midnight. Midnight and Chris ran out of the room pushing past Keoko. Christine went to the bed and sat next to Kashin.

                “Wanna play a game?”

                “Okay.” Kashin said.

*************************************************************************************

Orion was pleased with the outcome. The girl wouldn’t remember who her real father was so he could easily fill in the space. Her mother would be his wife of course. He would raise her and make her stronger than anything else in the world. After all, she was halven. A very strong and beautiful creature.

                “Soon love, we will keep her. Soon.” Orion said to Sina. She smiled softly and let her wings out. Orion had always loved Sina and would give anything for her. She loved him much of the same in return. He pushed back a strand of her hair and then kissed her deeply. 

*************************************************************************************

Ken’Shinto sobbed sitting on the couch next to his mother. Keshaun had broken the news to him that April was dead and that Kashin was in the hospital with no memory of anyone here. Rose put a arm around her son and held her in her chest. He may have been bigger than her but he would always be her baby boy.

                “Oh son, I’m sorry.” Rose said. She too had cried when she found this out. Keshaun asked her to be strong for all of them. It was to be expected. Rose had to be strong for everyone at all times.

Keshaun shifted slightly. He sat on the sofa across from his son and wife. He did not ever expect to see his son cry and this was his second time in Ken’Shinto’s entire life of seeing it. Surely he cried as a baby but that was normal.

                “Who did this?” Ken’Shinto asked weakly. “Was it Orion?”

                “We don’t know.” Rose answered. “But Kashin needs you.  You need to go to her and bring her back. We will help with her studies, help her grow and even-“

                “Ken’Shinto,” Keshaun said when Rose paused lost for words. “Kashin needs to return to her home. Bring her back and we will help with what we can.” It was another order. Ken’Shinto knew it was Keshaun who tore the family apart in the first place. The order that Kashin join them in a mission. April knew something would go wrong and it did. He should have listened to her.

                “She will not go on any more missions.” Ken’Shinto said. “Unless I say its okay.”

                “Very well.” Keshaun replied.

*************************************************************************************

Chris brought in three bags full of food while Midnight brought in several bags of food and drinks. Aiden watched interested to see what the kids would do. So far, Christine and Kashin got along just fine. The kids didn’t call her out of her name or even judge her as the world did. They openly accepted their cousin as if they had known her their entire lives. Aiden smirked. This was a good sign.

Kashin and Christine put down the dice and looked up as Chris jumped up on the bed and as Midnight jumped up on the other side of the bed. Kashin folded her legs so they could all have room.

                “Okay, you got to try these.” Midnight said. She pulled out a bag of Doritos Nacho Cheese. She opened them and handed one to Kashin. Kashin took it and looked it over.

                “What is it?” She asked.

                “Its chips.” Chris said. Kashin took a bite and chewed.

                “It is alright.”

                “Alright?!” Midnight exclaimed. “It’s the best in the world!”

                “Yeah, yeah, it’s my turn.” Chris took out a bag of chocolate. He handed one to Kashin. Kashin opened it and took a bite. She savored this one a little bit more.

                “It is good.” She said. “What is it?”

                “It’s chocolate.”

                “Can I have another piece?” Chris smiled and gave her another piece.

                “Alright, try something else.” Midnight prompted. Kashin looked around at the bags full of food. She pointed to something that looked familiar.

                “What’s that?” She asked. Midnight looked to where she pointed and picked up a box of California Rolls.

                “Its like sushi.” Midnight explained.

                “Bleh.” Chris stuck out his tongue. “Its gross, you don’t want to try it.”

                “I’ll try it.” Kashin looked to Midnight who opened the box. She handed Kashin a little small roll. Kashin took a bite.

                “It taste familiar but I don’t know where I had it before.” Kashin said. “Its hard to remember…”

                “Kashin.” Keoko had walked back into the room. He looked at the bags of food and then to the three responsible. “What is this?”

                “You said she hasn’t eaten in three days.” Chris pointed out.

                “We thought she might like real food.” Midnight said. “Hospital food is gross.”

                “They’ve been successful so far.” Aiden leaned back and crossed his arms. “I don’t know why but they have gotten her to eat.”

                “Hmn.” Keoko sighed. “It is good that you all helped her eat but she needs to eat small portions and healthy food.”

                “I brought sushi.” Midnight prompted. “Kashin said she liked it.”

                “I’m sure but I mean fruits, vegetable, proteins.” Keoko set the bags of food aside just as a nurse walked in pushing another tray of food. “Kashin, you need to eat.”

                “We will help her.” Chris prompted.

                “I’m sure.” Keoko responded dryly. “And one more thing.” Keoko turned to Aiden. “Ken’Shinto is on his way here. He plans to hold a funeral for April here and then take Kashin home.”

                “But she just got here.” Midnight complained. “She has to leave already?”

                “She cannot travel for another month or so until she is healed, you all will have plenty of time to group up until then.”

                “How long until he gets here?” Aiden asked.

                “He said he would be here by five pm tonight.” Keoko said.

                “Who is Ken’Shinto?” Kashin asked. She looked lost and confused.

                “He’s your dad.” Chris said. “We’ve never met him but he’s sure to be pretty cool.”

                “Why do you say that?”

                “Because he’s a ninja.” Chris said proudly. “He kills people and stuff.”

                “He does more than just kill people.” Aiden corrected.

                “Okay, okay, so he does more than just kill people.” Chris told Kashin. She looked confused. “You will know when you see him.”

                “Kashin needs to eat.” Christine said. She pushed a strand of black hair behind her and pulled the tray to her cousin. “It looks okay.”

                “I’m not hungry.” Kashin said suddenly.

                “Oh yes you are.” Midnight exclaimed. “And we’re not leaving until you eat all of it.”

                “Perhaps not all of it.” Christine said. “We can eat with you.”

                “Yeah, and then we can play a game.” Chris taunted Midnight. “We’re playing Uno.”

Kashin ate what she could listening to her “cousins” argue about which game to play. She didn’t mind their presence but wanted to be alone. She didn’t know who these people were and wondered often if they truly liked her. Something wasn’t right and she didn’t know what. She was scared and confused.

Aiden had watched the group silently. His eldest son, De’vonte, didn’t wish to come. Aiden wasn’t sure why or what was going on with his eldest son but he knew that too many kids would probably overwhelm Kashin. He sighed. She could steal anyone’s heart. She had grown accustomed to her cousins quickly and even though she wished to be alone, a part of her grew on them and vice versa. Aiden wondered if Kashin had any real friends in the wolven lands. April had wrote to him and their brothers that Kashin was home schooled because no school would accept her.

Ken’Shinto walked slowly into the hospital and looked around. Everyone eyed him and recognized him as a demon wolf. He stood out from the rest of them. Black shirt, black pants, black mask that covered over half of his face and even a black jacket. He carefully slid off his helmet and walked silently to the nurses station.

                “I’m here for Kashin Honshu.” He said softly.

                “Who are you?” The nurse asked.

                “Ken’Shinto Honshu.”

                “So you’re the one who killed April.” The nurse stood and glanced at the guards. “The king would want you arrested for doing such a thing. The princess did not deserve such a thing.”

                “I did not kill anyone.”                       

                “Hard to trust a demon.” One of the guards said.

                “Stop.” Came a sharp order. Jacob walked into the room and glared at the nurse and guards. “How dare you say such things. This is Kashin’s father. You should respect him as such.”

                “He’s a demon.” The nurse said eyeing Ken’Shinto.

                “He’s family.” Jacob hissed. “Do you wish to be punished?”

                “No sire.”

                “Enough of this then.” The nurse sat back down and the guards backed up. Jacob turned to Ken. “Its been a long time brother.”

                “I’m sorry.” Ken’Shinto replied. “I didn’t know-“

                “None of us knew. We’re still investigating the site to see what happened.” Jacob explained. Jacob, Joseph and Aiden had met several times but not recently. They became friends quickly. Ken’Shinto wondered if they would still be “family” or “friends” after what had happened. He was worried that the three brothers would blame him for their sister’s death. After this, it seemed that Jacob did not plan to do so.

                “This way brother.” Jacob led the way to Kashin’s room.

Kashin had just finished dinner and waited impatiently for her cousins to return. They had left earlier when Keoko asked them to so Kashin could rest a while. Aiden took the unhappy kids away for the night. They promised that they would return soon. She decided that she loved them. Not liked, but loved. She didn’t know why she loved them but she just did. A nock sounded at the door and two people entered. Kashin recognized Jacob as one and didn’t recognize the other.

                “Hello daughter.” Orion said softly. “I’ve come for you.”

                “You’re not him.” Kashin said suddenly. She didn’t know who he was but knew for some reason that this was not her father. There was another knock on the door and Jacob and Ken’Shinto entered the room.

                “Kashin I’ve brought- Orion.” Jacob growled suddenly tensed. Ken’Shinto took out a knife.

                “Orion, leave my daughter alone.” Ken’Shinto hissed.

                “I’ve come for what’s owed to me.” Orion said. “The girl is mine.”

                “She is not yours.” Jacob let his own wings out and did a spell sending Orion and the other intruder to dungeons under the Hidden Kingdom’s castle. There was a flash and then they were gone. Ken’Shinto made sure there was nothing left of Orion before he walked quickly to Kashin. She looked a little afraid.

                “Kashin.” He hugged her. She was a little hesitant but she hugged him back.

                “Who are you?” She asked softly. Ken’Shinto felt his heart break.

                “I’m your father, Ken’Shinto.” Ken replied. “I’ve come to bring you home.”