I'll come for you
"Quote?"
BLURB?
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Enter the warring mindKURAMA AND YOUKO
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enter the dragonHIEI
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Enter The KitRYOU
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Enter Kit's MatesBAKURA AND AKEFIA
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Enter The GangYYH CHARS
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Chapter 1
You've finally returned
Chapter 1
His feet landed lightly in the soft grass of the forest surrounding Genkai's temple. It had been six years since he was last in Ningenkai and he was feeling nervous about how Yukina will react to his return after so long an absence with little explanation.
After the Reikai tournament and the death of Shigure by Kurama's hand, He had finally told Yukina of their relation and the ice apparition had been ecstatic to finally have a chance to know him as her older brother regardless of his past. He had spent but two months in Ningenkai, staying in the tree in Kurama’s front lawn and on particularly cold nights, on the red-heads floor, refusing to share the elder’s bed or let him sleep on the floor.
Half-way into his third month back he was becoming unable to restrain his well hidden feelings and felt that he had to leave, before he acted on them and regretted it for the rest of his life. He had left the fox a note and then made haste to the temple where he bid his sister farewell and fled before she could question him or try to convince him to stay. He still remembered well, the look in her eyes and the words in the note he had left for his
best friend along with the small black tear-gem he had shed before fleeing. My feet reluctantly stepped, heading in the Temple's direction.
'Yukina first, and then the fox.'
He picked up the pace and slowed to a stop when he reached the forests edge, Yukina was out tending to a garden, he could smell that the fox had used his Yokai to grow the plants and guessed it was due to the old woman's absence. His hand unconsciously shifted to the hilt of his katana for comfort before he stepped out into the open. The young blue-haired woman's head shot up from the rosette's she was pruning to the dark figure who emerged from the confines of the forest and a massive grin spread across her face.
"Hiei!" She cried in her happy state before jumping to her feet and running towards me.
She had to stretch up to get her arms around my neck in a hug due to my height increase, I now stood slightly taller than Kurama.
"It has been too long brother, I am glad you have finally returned." She whispered as she tightened the hug.
"I am sorry Yukina, but I was unable to stay." He whispered to her and she nodded in understanding.
He sighed when he felt one of his sister’s precious gems fall onto his shoulder and drop to the soft grass beneath them. He pulled back and wiped the next tear before it had a chance to solidify into another rich jewel.
"No tears please sister, I'm here now, I will not leave again. I still may not be able to face my problem but I will not run from it any longer. I promise." He said brushing his thumb along her cheek in a comforting manner.
"Not that I'm complaining brother, but why have you returned now, after so long, why did you leave?" Yukina asked and she was surprised when Hiei averted his gaze with the faintest hint of a blush across his cheeks.
"It does not matter why I left, what matters now is that I have returned. I will have to deal with my problem, but I’m here to stay." Yukina looked at him with sympathetic eyes but he couldn't hold her gaze.
‘She shouldn’t feel sorry for me’
Yukina sighed before she backed away from him and returned to the garden. An awkward silence passed between them before Hiei’s eyes focused on the plants Yukina had continued tending to. He crouched down so he was beside her and gestured to the flowers.
"When?" Was all he asked and Yukina gave a soft smile.
"Just two months after you left. Kuwabara has been keeping me company." She laughed lightly at the growl that left Hiei’s throat. "Please brother, you need to trust that he will look after me, specially seems we are a couple now.” Her eyes saddened as she held out her hand for him to see and his eyes widened at the sight of the ring on her finger.
"You’re engaged?" He yelped in shock and Yukina shook her head.
"Married actually, the wedding was three years ago, Yusuke and Keiko have also gotten married, a few months before me and Kuwabara." He looked at her in shock but she just looked to the ground with saddened eyes. "Brother you have missed so much... I do hope you will be here from now on though." She whispered as she rested her hand against her stomach with a small smile.
He noted the action with barely restrained anger but also slight pride, reluctantly he lifted his hand towards her stomach but shrunk back before touching her, afraid of hurting her. Yukina grabbed my hand and rested it against her stomach with a sigh. Hiei was in awe that his niece or nephew was growing in her stomach.
"How long?" He asked as he rubbed her taught skin lightly, feeling how her soft stomach was expanding for the life growing inside.
"The doctor Kurama brought over from the Makai said I am in my Second Trimester, the hard part is over, still a while to go through." She explained and my expression softened.
"I promise you both I'll be here." He whispered leaning closer to her stomach to rest his ear against her, Yukina giggled at his curious action.
"Little one, this is your uncle, Hiei. He's going to spoil you rotten, and teach you how to protect yourself, and your parents as well as your future mate." He whispered and jolted when he felt a kick against my hand. He looked at Yukina with surprise and she smiled.
"She loves you already." She spoke lightly and his expression softened even more.
For hours they sat in the garden catching up and before he knew it the sun was setting.
"Brother, please stay tonight. Kuwabara is away tending to a problem with Yusuke and it is lonely here at night now that Genkai has passed on." She explained and Hiei nodded before helping his sister too her feet.
He led her into the temple and made her a light meal to eat, not hungry himself, before leading her to her room.
"I'll just be in the main area." He smiled as he tucked her in and kissed her fore-head.
"We will have breakfast in the morning before you set off to what it is you do all day." She said firmly and he nodded before wishing her sweet dreams and escaping to the main room where he got comfortable on the bamboo couch in the corner of the large room.
Sleep easily took him and he dreamed one of the few dreams he had been having ever since the night he left the Ningenkai six years ago. He dreamed about Kurama, his fox.
Chapter 2
Morning came with harsh rays of sunshine and the smell of his sisters cooking. Hiei headed to the bathroom for a quick wash-up before he joined Yukina in the kitchen just as she set the table for breakfast. They ate in comfortable silence and once finished Hiei offered to clean whilst Yukina went to freshen up for the day. He cleared the table, washed the dishes and put everything away, storing the last plate as his sister re-entered the room in her icy blue kimono.
"I assume you will be going now brother?" She asked with a smile and he nodded before pulling her into a hug.
"I will return Yukina, if you need me just call out..." He touched the ward on his forehead as he pulled away from her. "I will always respond." His gentle voice made her smile and she nodded before ushering him from the temple.
"I have cleaning to do, you go have fun wreaking havoc in Ningenkai." She joked laughing and Hiei smiled back.
"See you later." Then he flitted down the temple steps and quickly made his way across town, using the rooftops to avoid the humans below.
"It's your turn now fox." He whispered as he ran.
He skidded to a stop on the roof of the house beside Kurama's with a confused expression. The tree in their front yard no longer had that one sturdy branch that reached right to Kurama's window. He flitted the last few meters and sat on the window ceil of what was once Kurama’s room before looking in through the locked window. He was shocked to see the room devoid of living quarters, from what he could see it had been reverted into a study room, he ducked to the side when the door opened and a teenager, not his fox, walked into the room and sat at the computer with his juice box.
"Shuuichi, are you doing your homework?" A feminine voice that Hiei recognized called from down stairs and the boy just grunted.
"Yeah mum." He muttered before he pulled out a book from the desk draw and started writing. “Stupid perfect son with perfect grades.”
Confused but knowing Shiori was still here, Hiei dropped down and crossed the lawn to the front door. He cleared his throat nervously before knocking on the wooden door.
"Just a minute!" He heard Shiori call out and he shuffled his feet whilst waiting, dully remembering to shelter his katana under his cloak.
'It would do no good to scare the woman.'
The door opened and Hiei immediately recognized her as Kurama’s human mother.
"Good morning young man, is there something I can do for you?" She asked in a cheerful voice and Hiei nodded.
"Hello Shiori, you may not remember me but I'm..." Hiei paused wondering how to refer to his fox.
'She probably doesn't know yet, best to use his human name.'
"I'm Shuuichi's friend. Do you know where he is? I noticed his room is now a study room." He said somewhat nervously, hoping she wouldn't be mad at him for peaking.
"Ohh dear..." She looked behind her with worry before leaning closer to Hiei and speaking in a hushed whisper. "Are you one of his special friends?" She asked and Hiei looked confused before he nodded. "In that case, Kurama moved out."
Two things stunned Hiei still, Kurama’s HUMAN mother had just referred to him by his demonic name and the fox had moved out.
"He fell into a severe depression after his best friend, Hiei took off and then old Genkai passed away and he couldn't take it anymore. He broke down and told me everything, and I mean everything. Just a few months after telling me, he moved out. I still can't believe it.... He has been living in his own apartment for five years and six months now." Her saddened voice made Hiei feel depressed.
'The fox’s leaving is my fault, I’ve had driven the fox from his mother and his comfortable home...'
"Please Shiori, where can I find him." Hiei asked desperately and the woman eyed him for a moment.
"I will tell you if you promise me one thing Hiei." She said on a stern motherly voice and Hiei gulped.
'She knows I’m the one...'
He nodded reluctantly and was surprised when he was pulled into a tight hug.
"Promise me you won't leave him again. The poor boy was lost without you, it broke his heart." She whispered and at the sound of his mother figure, speaking in such a broken voice because of him caused him to shed a tear before he could stop himself.
Shiori caught the small black tear-gem and looked at it in surprise. Hiei stared at it with a deep sadness.
"This is the first tear I have shed since I left Ningenkai six years ago." He whispered before shaking his head and turning away. "Your request will be granted, I have no intention of fleeing again." He responded to her earlier words and she stepped out onto the veranda as he started to leave.
"You love my son don't you?" She asked and when Hiei froze she knew the answer. "That is why you left those years ago?" The sigh answered her again and she held out the tear-gem for him to take.
Hiei turned around and pushed the gem back towards her.
"The Hiruseki Stone, formed from the tears of a Koorime, are priceless to the one who sheds it. It can easily fetch more than a thousand when sold to the right person. Use this tear-gem as you see fit, call it an apology for the pain I have unknowingly caused your son." He whispered before he flittered off.
Shiori watched him go with shock before she smiled slightly. She headed back into the house and went straight to her room. She hooked the black tear-gem onto a small piece of rope and hung the jewel over a photo frame on her bedside table. It was no secret that her son was photo-shy, she only had one good photo of her son and it was of him and Hiei.
The photo had sat framed on her bedside table since before Hiei's disappearance. She smiled as the tear-gem hung between the two boys, Kurama had pulled Hiei into a playful hug just as Keiko ran out with a camera and she caught them both off guard. The woman looked out her window with sad eyes.
"Good luck Hiei, I hope you can realize soon that my son feels the same way you do and admit your feelings to him, before it’s too late." She sighed at a knock on her bedroom door.
"Mum I'm finished my homework." Shuuichi called out and Shiori stood from her bed.
"Alright dear, you go and play your new game and I'll make us some lunch." She smiled as she looked at him through her now open bedroom door.
The teen nodded before mother and sun split to two separate ends of their large house.
Chapter 3
Hiei slowed down once he entered the park not far from Kurama's old home. He realized he had no clue where the fox’s new abode was. Sighing, he leapt into a high tree so he wouldn't be noticed and he untied the ward on his Jagan. Opening the purple eye, he scanned the area for his fox’s unique Ki and he quickly located him, not far from his current position. He recovered his Jagan, masking his Ki before he flittered off, arriving before a large building which was made up of many apartments.
'He went from that beautiful home to this dump, why didn't he use the gem I left him to at least get himself a proper home?’
He asked himself before he noticed a large oak that stretched high beside the building, one of it’s branches reached out to a window seven floors up. And he couldn't help but smile,
'That's no coincidence.'
He used the lower branches and his speed to scale the tree till he sat on the one sturdy branch that leaned out to the open window. He could hear the unmistakable beat of Nickelback's 'If Today Was Your Last Day' blaring from the stereo Hiei had convinced the redhead to buy.
"Against the grain should be a way of life, What's worth the prize is always worth the fight, Every second counts 'cause there's no second try, So live like you'll never live it twice, Don't take the free ride in your own life." The fox’s voice drifted through the window as he sang along to the song. Hiei smiled as he watched Kurama singing as he cleaned the house.
'It must be a Monday. That fox is always cleaning on Mondays.'
Hiei dully noted as he relaxed onto the branch and smiled as he watched the fox and listened to his CD. Four songs had passed and the fox had drifted down the hallway, the sound to the running water suggested that he was cleaning the bathroom. The soft tune of a song Hiei didn't recognized drifted towards him and he wondered if it had always been on his CD. He was shocked when he heard a yelp from the fox who stumbled into the room racing towards the CD player.
~Just one more moment
That’s all that’s needed~
The song barely got two lines out before the fox smacked his hand against the next button with a hurried movement. He glared at the offending machine like it had done something wrong before stalking off while 'Follow You Home' blared to life. Hiei watched his retreating form confused, before he shifted slightly and continued to listen to the music. Mid-day had come and gone when Kurama re-entered his room and dropped onto his bed. The music had stopped a while ago and Hiei smiled as Kurama huffed and rolled onto his back before looking over at his alarm clock.
"1:00, I should be heading out." He said to himself lightly with a smile before he got up and rummaged through his bedside table.
From what Hiei could see Kurama retracted his hand with a large crystal that was attached to a rope. With the crystal in his hand, Kurama headed out of his room. Hiei heard Kurama shuffling around for a few minutes before he heard the front door close and lock. Standing up from his spot in the tree, Hiei watched as Kurama exited the building in his kitsune form with the crystal around his neck and a piece of paper rolled up in his mouth. The kitsune ran across the lawn and trotted off down the street. Hiei shadowed him from the rooftops wondering what his fox was doing.
After five blocks and three street crosses, Kurama stopped out the front of a rundown building, with a rusty fence and overgrown lawn. He started yipping as he carefully made his way down the dirt path and up onto the shabby veranda. He scratched at the door before backing up and sitting down. Hiei stayed on a building across the street watching.
“Kurama!” A group of yells came from the rundown building as five children burst through the door and showered his fox with affectionate hugs and pats.
Hiei was surprised and confused all at the same time. He noticed when a tall blond woman appeared at the door and knelt down before Kurama. The kids backed off as she lightly patted his head.
“Good afternoon Kurama.” She greeted rubbing his ears and Kurama wagged his tail.
Kurama nudged into the ladies hand and passed her the note he held in his mouth. She took it and unrolled it. Hiei, curious about the contents of the letter, was careful not to alert Kurama to his presence as he used his Jagan to read what was written on the note.
‘Dear Mai,
My partner and I have managed to gather another crystal for you and the kids. I do hope that you can use it to feed the little ones this fortnight, and perhaps even do some repairs on the shelter. This crystal is bigger than the last one so it should go further. Kurama will be with the kids all day today so you need not worry about their safety, he will take good care of them. We will gather you some more funds next fortnight and hope to finalize our Ryou soon.
Signed Shuuichi and Youko.’
“I see.” Mai spoke and Kurama shook his head so the rope loosened before grabbing it with his teeth and passing the crystal over to Mai, the woman looked shocked. “This one is much larger than the last one. I will be able to replace a lot of stuff with this.” She smiled down at Kurama and patted his head lightly. “Tell your masters they have my deepest gratitude Kurama. Without Shuuichi and Youko’s donations these poor children would have nowhere to go.”
Kurama nodded to her wagging his tail before he stepped off the porch and headed towards the street. The five kids following close behind him.
“Have a good day kids, while you’re out with Kurama I’ll do some food shopping so take your time.” She called out and they all nodded before Kurama led them down the pathway towards the park. Hiei continued to shadow Kurama and the kids from the rooftops on the other side of the road.
Kurama twitched his tails in annoyance as they walked, he hated them not being free but to appear normal he had to tie them together, at least while out in the open. The youngest child, a white haired boy named Ryou was sitting on his back as he walked down the street with the orphans.
‘We are doing well with our savings young one, it won't be long now.' Kurama sighed as he licked Ryou's small hand which was wrapped around his neck.
Hiei had heard the kitsune's thoughts and was confused.
'My gem could easily provide for the kid, what has the Kitsune done with the gem when he could have used it for Ryou?'
"Papa, how come you are never human around us?" Ryou whispered the same question he asked every time they were together and Kurama smiled.
'You should know Ryou, whilst we cannot afford to adopt you, I cannot be human around you. I promise when we are able too, you will see me in person and we will take you away from that place.'
Hiei was shocked when he noticed the kid nod in acceptance to Kurama's thoughts, not bothered by the fact the kid was referring to his fox as a father.
'Ryou, have you still got that jewel we gave you?' Kurama's soft voice asked and the young boy nodded, pulling Hiei's tear gem from under his shirt. ‘That's my boy. You’re keeping it safe for us.'
"I never take it off." The little boy responded before he slipped the jewel back under his shirt. Hiei sighed, he should have known that the kid had it, the way Kurama was acting with the young one.
Chapter 4
"Hey Kurama." The eldest in the group, Riley called out and Kurama yipped in response. "He's being bullied again..." She responded reluctantly and at Ryou's whimper Kurama snarled, he turned to look into the young boys emerald eyes and licked his face.
'Who has harmed you my boy?' He asked with a tenderness Hiei had only heard towards Kurama's human mother.
"It is nothing papa." Ryou responded and the second eldest, Riley’s brother Tesshin piped up.
"It's not nothing Ryou, show him your arm." The boy demanded and Ryou whimpered shaking his head.
Ignoring Ryou’s protests and persistent hand, Kurama nuzzled into the boys sleeve and looked at the ragged cloth tied around his arm, surrounded by bruises. Using his teeth, Kurama pulled on the knot and the ragged cloth fell to the ground revealing a deep gash in the child’s arm. Ryou whimpered as Kurama licked it lightly and the fox sighed.
‘It’s deep…’ He whined and Ryou nodded. ‘Who did this?’ He asked again and Ryou frantically shook his head refusing to say. ‘Fine, but you will tell me later, I will not allow this to happen.’ Kurama said sternly and Hiei sighed at the worry shadowing his fox’s words.
‘He really does care about the kid… I’ll have to take care of this bully.’ He huffed lightly as they continued down the street.
"Mr Kurama?” Taya, the second female child called out and Kurama yipped, looking up at her. “Can we hurry? We feel safer at the park and your poor tail must be hurting." She said worried as she gestured to the appendages that twitched in utter annoyance behind him.
Kurama nodded to her with a slight smile at the worry she showed. He hurried down the street and across the crossing making sure they all had a grip on his fur like a responsible adult holding their child’s hand. He then led them into the park. Hiei followed from the trees as Kurama led the kids deep through the bushes and into a small clearing. Then without a second thought Kurama used his Ki to grow the plants around them so they would have some privacy, knowing the kids would want to see Youko now that it was safe. Kurama sighed in relief once Ryou untied the bands. His now released tails waved around re-circulating their blood flow in a happy manner.
"Mr Kurama." The last child, a boy named Diego called from his left and the fox turned to him as they settled down. "Can we see Mr Youko, he said he would give us some roses for Miss Mai." he asked softly and Hiei watched stunned as his fox allowed his body to shift, till he sat cross-legged, ears twitching as his tail rested in his lap.
‘He showed himself to these human children… He has changed quite a bit since I was last here…’ Hiei sighed, he was so confused. ‘Why are they also referring to Kurama and Youko as two separate beings, the fox seems to be doing it as well, and Kurama wrote that he and Youko were partners…’ Shaking his head, Hiei watched as Youko reached into his hair and pulled out five seeds, feeding them his Ki, the seeds grew into five throned roses.
"Remember what I have told you about the roses." Youko cautioned handing the roses over to the children, who each took one in their hands.
"Every rose has it’s thorns, handle them with caution and care." Tesshin on his right filled in and Youko nodded before his gaze landed on Ryou. "Now Kit, I believe we have a matter to discuss.” He pointedly said, holding out his clawed hand and Ryou sighed.
"Yes father..." He reluctantly reached out and laid his arm in Youko's grasp. Youko quickly examined the arm, moving the sleeve out of the way before he hissed. A large gash was deep in his skin and his upper arm was bruised. The other kids all gathered around and watched as Youko tenderly pressured the wound.
"Can you fix it Mr Youko?" The little girl who requested his presence asked and Youko frowned.
"I believe I can help but I cannot fully heal the wound." He responded as he pulled three seeds from his hair. Feeding them his Yokai the seeds grew into Rosemary, Lavender and Aloe Vera. The kids watched in fascination as Youko placed the rosemary and Lavender into his mouth, chewing whilst he used his claw to split the Aloe Vera leaf. He dripped some of the plants sap into Ryou's wound holding tight as the young boy flinched. He then leaned over and squeezed the juice from the Rosemary and Lavender into the wound before removing the mush and spreading it over Ryou’s arm. The kids all Ewe'd but Youko ignored them.
"Taya, can you please go grab me a decent leaf and a couple vines?" He asked and the young girl jumped up, nodding happily before she ran off. Youko turned back to Ryou. "How does it feel?" He asked and Ryou just smiled slightly.
"I will be fine Father." He smiled before lightly pulling on one of the Youko's long silver forelocks.
Youko smiled at him just as Taya returned. "Thank you." Youko bowed slightly before feeding his Ki into the dried leaf, now damp he wrapped the leaf around the wound and willed the vines to hold fast around the leaf, securing it in place. "It should heal fairly quickly now and won't get infected." Youko assured before he looked around at the other four children. “Are any of you hurt at all?” When they all shook their heads he sighed before he lay down in the grass, the five children gathered around him and he smiled when Riley requested a story. Hiei relaxed into the tree as Youko told the kids the story of one of his Heists as a bandit. Sleep eventually took over the group except for Youko, Ryou and Hiei.
"Kit... Are you happy?" He asked the young one and Ryou looked at him confused.
"Miss Mai is kind to us, I do not mind the orphanage." He responded and Youko shook his head.
"Kurama really loves you and he is serious about adopting you when we can afford it." Youko explained before he looked down at Ryou with sad eyes. "We both lost a dear friend to us a while back, I have not seen Kurama so happy since he left the both of us. You bring Kurama that happiness, and you fill the void for myself. I wish for you to tell me now if you do not wish to be our son. I couldn't bear loosing another loved one, and I know a Kurama will not be able to handle his heart broken a second time."
"I..." Ryou didn't know what to say and Youko sighed.
"I'm sorry kit, you are too young for such a burden... Maybe another family will grow to love you as we have and ad..." Before Youko's sentence could finish Ryou tackled into him hugging him tightly.
"I cannot imagine why that idiot left you both, specially seems you love him so... But I promise Father, I will do my best for you and Papa, I won't let you down." He nuzzled into Youko's neck and the fox smiled.
"Thankyou Ryou. Now rest, it won't be long till I have to escort you back to the orphanage." Youko stroked his clawed fingers through Ryou's hair in a soothing manner as the two followed the other kids into a light sleep. Hiei noticing they were asleep, took his leave. He was confused by all he heard and needed time to think it over before he talked to the fox. He flitted off in the direction of the temple.
The sun was setting when Youko stirred. He sighed as he shook the kids awake. "Young ones it is time to leave." He whispered to their sleepy selves before he held out the band for Kurama's tails and allowed the red-head control. Ryou quickly but lightly tied the bands around Kurama's tails and he whined at the restricting feeling. Before he ushered the group to follow him out of the park and towards the orphanage.
As usual Mai was waiting for them on the front step, she smiled as Kurama walked the kids to the run-down orphanages gate. The five bid Kurama farewell before heading up to their caretaker. Ryou lingered by Kurama.
"Do not worry Papa, I will be with you and Father soon." He whispered as he kissed Kurama on the muzzle before heading through the gate and up the steps to Mai. The older woman immediately noticed the wrap around Ryou's wound and looked out to the fox who bowed to her before running off. Mai smiled before ushered everyone inside for dinner.
Kurama not bothering to take the stairs or use the door, scaled the tree and leapt into his room shifting to his human form with a sigh. Not hungry and very tired he laid down on his bed staring at the ceiling.
"Youko, please come out." Kurama whispered and the Kitsune appeared lying on the bed by him, his body was transparent though and Kurama sighed. "How I wish you were solid already..." The red head sighed as Youko's transparent hand brushed his cheek making Kurama shiver. "Youko, do you think Hiei will ever return to us?" Kurama asked a question that fell from his lips many times over the six years and Youko gave him the same answer he did every time.
"I don't know love." He responded and Kurama whined. "Get some sleep love, Yukina has requested our presence at the temple tomorrow." Youko whispered and Kurama nodded before he allowed sleep to take him, Youko smiled at his love and faded back into Kurama's mind.
Chapter 5
Hiei was jolted awake by a rock hitting him square in the forehead, he snarled as he shot to his feet, keeping his balance in the tree he had slept in. He looked down to see Yusuke, Kuwabara and Yukina scolding them both.
"Hn."
He dropped down beside them with a board expression and the two boys just stared at him with blank looks on their faces. A minute passed before Yusuke leapt at him and took him in a choke hold while Kuwabara laughed.
"Long time no see shorty, yet you’re not so short no more."
"Kuwa, I wouldn't doubt that he is taller than Kurama now, he’s only a little shorter then you. Awe man." He said releasing Hiei, before whining "Now I'm the shortest."
"I believe your forgetting my lovely Yukina Urameshi. She’s short and pretty, two things that trump you." Hiei watched as Yusuke chased Kuwabara into the temple for his statement before turning to Yukina.
“Morning sister.” He greeted hugging her lightly before looking off to the side. “Why have I been awakened?” He asked and Yukina smiled.
“It’s time for breakfast, come on.” She said lightly, tugging Hiei along by his hand.
Hiei followed her obediently as she led him into the kitchen before he left her side to sit at the table, Ignoring Kuwabara and Yusuke who were fighting in the chairs beside him.
“Brother?” Yukina’s voice came from the kitchen and Hiei grunted to state he had heard her before she continued. “Have you seen Kurama and Youko yet?” She asked lightly and Hiei was surprised when the idiots beside him stopped fighting and looked at him intently.
“No…” Hiei lied before he looked at his hands. “May I ask why you are referring to Kurama and Youko as two separate people?”
Yukina walked out of the kitchen and sat the food she had preparing down on the table for the three boys. They all started eating in silence until Yusuke spoke.
“You’ve missed a lot in your absence Hiei, Kurama and Youko are two separate people.” He spoke around the food in his mouth.
“I know that!” Hiei spoke frustrated. “I know Youko and Kurama are not the same, but why are you talking about them as if they are two separate beings?” Kuwabara and Yusuke looked at the frustrated fire demon with confusion before Yukina spoke, getting what her brother meant.
“Youko, whilst not complete, has his own body.” She explained and Hiei looked at her stunned.
“What do you mean?” Hiei asked confused and Yukina looked at him with a smile.
“You will see, Kurama and Youko will be here soon.” With that said the table fell into silence as everyone ate. Hiei frowned as he picked at his food.
‘I’m still not ready to face him.’
“Love…” His partner’s deep voice rung in his ears but he just rolled over and ignored the kitsune. “Koi, we need to get going.” The voice came again and Kurama waved him off before pulling the pillow over his head.
Youko sighed watching his partner with happy eyes.
“If you don’t move, then I get control.” He whispered in the red-heads ear, blowing lightly.
Kurama moaned before glaring up at Youko’s transparent form.
“Take control, I want more sleep.” He whispered before closing his eyes again and Youko nodded quickly retreating into their body.
He shifted into the fox form and stretched all four legs before glaring at the bands around his four tails.
‘I hate that.’ He growled and Kurama’s sleepy voice laughed at him from their mind. ‘Shut up and get some sleep.’ He barked affectionately before making his way through the window. He climbed down the tree and headed off in the direction of Genkai’s temple.
After breakfast Yukina had asked Kuwabara and Yusuke to head into town and get her a few things from the shops, and after they left she told Hiei he was free to do as he wish as she worked around the house. To work off some tension and confusion Hiei headed outside. Unsheathing his Katana, he began moving at a fast hard pace, quickly working into a sweat, he discarded his shirt by his cloak and continued sparing.
This was how Youko found him when he skidded to a stop on the forest edge. He was hit with the Jaganshi’s Ki a few minutes back and made haste to the temple with enthusiasm. His tails which he had released once entering the forest wavered behind him in excitement.
Sensing he wasn’t alone, Hiei stopped on a downward stroke and glanced around with his senses piked. His eyes fell on the fox at the edge of the forest not twenty meters from him and his eyes widened. Youko regarded him with confused eyes at his shocked reaction and took a step forward, whining when Hiei took a step back.
‘I’m not ready.’ The Jaganshi repeated in his head before he flittered off into the thicket of trees to his left. Not even bothering to retrieve his shirt or cloak.
Youko watched him go with sad eyes before he trotted out, retrieving the fire demons discarded clothes and headed into the temple. He made his way into the main room where Yukina sat drinking tea. With a whimper he placed Hiei’s clothes on the table before shifting. He tucked his tail in his lap, ears drooped.
Yukina looked up at him, a sad expression taking over her face at the sight of her brothers clothes.
“Do not worry Youko, he’s just not ready yet.” Yukina reassured and the fox sighed before nodding and putting a clawed hand to his forehead.
“Kurama, love. We’re here, come on out.” He whispered and Yukina smiled as his silver hair bleed red and the narrowed golden eyes shined bright green.
The red-head stretched before smiling at Yukina.
“Good morning Yukina.” He greeted before he noticed Hiei’s clothes and he looked around franticly for the short demon.
“Love, he ran from me when we got here.” Youko explained appearing in his transparent form.
Kurama looked up at Yukina for confirmation and at her nod he sighed.
“Why, does he not wish to see us again?” Kurama asked in confusion looking up at Youko for comfort.
“Love, I believe he is afraid, He did just up and leave. Maybe he is unsure how we will react to his sudden return.” Youko explained and Kurama nodded.
“You’re probably right…” He said in a defeated voice and Yukina looked at her tea unable to meet her depressed friend’s eyes and the table fell into a deep silence.
Chapter 6
Hiei stopped in the branches of the dead tree out the front of the orphanage. He could hear splashing and kids laughter and couldn’t help but smile. Flittering to the roof and looking into the small backyard and noticed a decent sized blow up pool among the dead leaves and grass. The kids were all splashing around in the shallow water except Ryou who sat on a fallen log off to the side.
‘Kid.’ Hiei called out and he noticed Ryou look around confused. ‘On the roof.’
Ryou’s eyes immediately shot straight to Hiei and the demon couldn’t help but compare the bright green eyes to Kurama shining emeralds.
‘Who are you?’ Ryou questioned with a guarded expression.
‘The idiot friend of Kurama.’ Hiei replied remembering the kid’s words the previous afternoon with Youko.
‘You’re the one that abandoned Papa and Father. Go away!” Hiei flinched at Ryou’s response before he looked down at the tiles with remorse.
‘Please Ryou… I just want to talk.’ Hiei almost begged and Ryou huffed.
‘Give me one good reason why I should trust you, and don’t lie to me. I’ll know.’ Ryou responded and Hiei had to admire the little guy, Kurama and Youko had taught him well before he thought about the kids words.
‘You have no reason to trust me.’ He whispered… ‘But know I would never harm you, I… I love Kurama and…’ He sighed before turning and going to leave but Ryou stopped him.
“Alright, give me a minute and I will meet you out the front.” Ryou called out before getting up and heading inside.
Hiei stood stunned for a few minutes before he heard the front door open and he saw Ryou run out before turning to look up at him. He then walked out to the path and beckoned with his good arm for Hiei to follow him. The Jaganshi jumped down from the roof and joined Ryou on the foot path and the two fell into step beside each other.
“Now tell me, why did you leave? No lying alright.” Hiei nodded, before looking down at the young one.
“I’ll answer any questions you have for me, as long as you answer mine.” He bargained and Ryou seemed to think it over before nodding in agreeance.
“I left… I left because my feelings for Kurama are not right… I cannot feel this way about him and I know he will never share my feelings.” Hiei sighed out and Ryou looked at him confused.
“You left because you love Papa and you don’t believe that he could love you back?” He asked and Hiei nodded. “Well that’s silly, Papa does love you.” Ryou smiled and Hiei looked down at his feet.
“You misunderstand young one. I do not mean the love of a friend…” Hiei said and Ryou’s expression didn’t change. Hiei shook his head. “Nevermind, my turn.” He said before thinking of a question to ask Ryou.
“Yukina! Hiei!” Yusuke hollered as he walked back in through the door, he noticed Youko and Kurama sitting at the table and could no longer feel Hiei’s Ki on the temple grounds. “I see he fled again.” Yusuke growled with anger and Youko looked at him with sad eyes.
“Do not be angry with him, if he does not wish to see us, we will not force it. We may love him but there is a good chance he does not return feelings for one of us let alone both of us.” The Youko explained and Yusuke nodded to his words, putting the stuff Yukina wanted in the kitchen before he joined Yukina, Kurama and Youko at the table.
“Yusuke, where is my husband” Yukina asked and Yusuke looked at her before looking down.
“When we felt a jolt of Hiei’s demonic energy leave the temple and cross town at a high speed, Kuwabara took off after him.” Yusuke explained and Yukina nodded.
“Can we talk about something else please?” Kurama asked and his miserable tone spurred Yusuke to change the topic.
“Guys I have some good news about Youko’s body. Botan came around with a message from Koenma. Not sure why he didn’t tell you two though.” Yusuke muttered before continuing. “She said Koenma has figured out a way to make your body solid, permanently.”
Kurama and Youko looked at each other with large smiles before Kurama frowned. “What’s the catch, what do we have to do?” He asked and Yusuke grinned lopsidedly.
“If you can supply enough Ki to hold your solid figure long enough for the two of you to mate, the constant share of energy though your mating bonds will permanently sustain your solid body.” He explained and flinched when Youko growled.
“If I could hold a solid figure for that long don’t you think I would have done so already?!” He yelped out and Kurama bushed a deep crimson.
“I know you said off the subject but I brought this up for a reason.” Yusuke said softly and the two looked at him confused. “I could easily supply the energy for you but as you know I would need to be in the room and as much as I care for you both, I refuse.”
“We wouldn’t expect you to put yourself in that position Yusuke.” Youko said softly and just before Yusuke could respond, Yukina spoke up.
“But my brother could also supply enough Ki for you to stay in a solid body.” She said and Kurama looked up at her shocked before he realised she was right.
“That is true and with the aid of his Jagan, it will take little effort on his behalf. With… With the Jagan, can the Ki exchange be done at a distance?” Youko asked and Yusuke looked thoughtful.
“I wouldn’t know, you would have to ask Koenma.” Yusuke finished and Kurama shot to his feet, heading for the door.
“Love?” Youko asked and Kurama turned back with a smile.
“I’m heading off to spirit world, Youko…” Kurama stopped and Youko knew what he wanted, Youko quickly took over the body and Kurama appeared in a transparent skin. They then looked at each other in the eye.
“I will.” Youko said lightly and his partner smiled before sprinting out of the house. “I will also take my leave, I have a fire demon to track.” With that Youko’s form shifted to his kitsune form and he ran out of the house leaving Yukina and Yusuke to their own devices. Not five minutes later, Kuwabara ran into the house huffing.
“How did you go?” Yusuke asked and Kuwabara sighed.
“He knew I was tailing him, ditched me.” The ginger explained and Yukina smiled.
“Hopefully Youko can catch and talk to him.
Chapter 7
“How did you meet Kurama?” Hiei finally asked and Ryou stopped and looked up with a smile on his face.
“Can you keep a secret first?” Ryou asked and Hiei was surprise before he knelt down before Ryou and nodded. “I had snuck out that afternoon to see my boyfriend.” Ryou explained with a light blush and Hiei was shocked, the kid didn’t look any more than eight.
“Don’t look at me like that, I’m sixteen. Anyway it was four years ago. He and I were leaving the local arcade when we were thrown back by a streak of black, when we got back to our feet a streak of silver and red sprinted past us. Bakura suggested we go see what it was and we followed, in the distance we could see they entered the park and we ran to catch up.
When we got there what appeared to be a large bear was pinning a smaller fox to the ground and the two seemed to be talking. When the fox yelped I told Bakura to help him and he did. Kura is an Inu-demon. He shifted to his wolf form and easily knocked the bear off the fox and fought with it while I went to aid the fox.
The poor thing was bleeding all over but he seemed to be trying to get back up to fight the bear. I told him to lay still and Kura managed to knock the bear unconscious just as the fox managed to struggle to his feet. He staggered towards Kura and the bear and bit down into the bear’s throat, ripping out the flesh. Kura came back over to me and we both watched as the fox examined the wound it had made, before it dug into the bears neck and pulled back with a piece of rope. He yanked it free and both Kura and I looked at the Gem dangling on the end of the rope.
He then started to leave but fell unconscious. Kura carried the fox back to the abandoned building he lives in and I tended to the wounds as best I could as well as cleaned up the gem for him.
When he came too I wasn’t in the room and Kura was watching him, I ran back into the room to see the fox bristling and Kura in his humanoid form trying to calm him down. When the fox saw me he stopped and looked at me with confused eyes.” Ryou stopped for a minute, they were now in the park and he lead Hiei into the small clearing where he spent his time with Kurama and Youko and they both settled down on the grass.
Youko had just caught up to them and was surprised to see Ryou and Hiei together. He settled into the tree above them, making sure to keep his Ki masked. Ryou looked at Hiei as if asking if he should continue and the fire demon nodded.
“I smiled back at him and took the water I had left to fetch to him and helped him sit up so he could drink it. I was surprised when his body changed from the small fox to a tall Kitsune. Kura was not able to access his halfway form so I had never seen it before. He introduced himself as Youko and thanked us for our help. Kura asked him how he had gotten all his wounds and why he was after the bear, what the significance of the jewel was.
Father said for lack of better words. ‘It broke into our home, injured my partner, stole our precious treasure, and fled. I could not allow it to keep its life.’ When he attempted to leave we told him to stay till he had his strength and he accepted the help. Over the few days that he recovered, he learned about mine and Bakura’s lives and before he left on the fifth day, he gave me the jewel and told me to keep it with me.” Ryou’s hand slipped under his shirt pulling out the black jewel. “I never take it off.”
Hiei nodded when Ryou finished before he looked down at his hand.
“My question now?” Ryou asked and Hiei nodded. “If you love Papa so, how come you say you two can’t be together? Why would loving Papa be wrong? Father loves Papa, is that wrong?” Ignoring the fact that the teen had just asked three questions Hiei answered him anyway.
“Ryou you’re... Papa, is a precious creature and I value his respect and friendship with my life. I am a tainted creature, my life has just been one large failure and I wouldn’t taint his light by telling him of my love. He would never feel the way I do and I would never expect him too. That is what I mean by it is wrong... I can tell you now that the love you’re... Papa and Father share is not wrong, just like your love for Bakura. Never doubt that young one. I’m just… Never meant to love or be loved.” Hiei sighed and he jumped when he felt Ryou’s hand wrap around his arm.
“You really are an Idiot.” The teen chuckled and Hiei smiled softly.
“He’s right you know, you really are stupid if you believe that.” Hiei froze though when Youko’s voice reached his ears. Youko had dropped down from the trees and approached them with slow steps.
“Father!” Ryou yelped jumping to his feet, he ran into the Kitsune’s arms and Youko embraced him with a light smile.
“Young one, you should not let anyone lure you to such a secluded place, no matter what they say.” He said brushing a white forelock behind a pale ear. He smiled lightly at the offended look that crossed Hiei’s face. “You’re just lucky that Hiei is a good friend.”
“I know Father, but you always told me that ‘If you believe someone is being completely honest with you that you should give them a chance.’ right?” He asked looking up into Youko’s golden eyes.
“I suppose, it seems you do listen to me.” Youko chuckled before glancing over at Hiei, he noticed the fire demon slowly inching away from them. “We need to talk, don’t you dare flee again.” He snarled and Hiei averted his gaze but stopped his movement. “But first things first. Kit, who is Bakura.” Youko asked in a stern voice and Ryou looked down at his shuffling feet.
“He’s my...” Ryou started but stopped and sighed before taking a deep breath and looking Youko directly in the eyes. “He is my boyfriend, of six months before I first met you in the park. He is an Inu demon, the same wolf that knocked that bear unconscious.” Youko threaded his clawed figures through Ryou’s hair with a happy smile.
“Thank you for being completely honest with me Kit. As I recall, Bakura is sheltering in an abandoned building. I would prefer him to be with us, safe.” Youko whispered and Ryou looked shocked. “You know our fund issue at the moment, but it won’t be long till Papa and I will have enough. You will both come live with us.” He said and wiped the tears from Ryou’s eyes.
“Thank you so much Father!” Ryou cried out and Youko chuckled hugging him. “Thank you so much! If it’s alright with you Father I want you there when I tell him the good news, and I can introduce you and Papa to him officially.”
“You’re welcome my kit, and of cause I’ll be there. Now go play in the park while I have a talk with Hiei, then I’ll take you home.” Youko smiled as Ryou scrambled to his feet and ran to play. Youko twitched his tail in a happy manner before he turned his golden eyes back to Hiei.
Hiei was frozen in place by the vicious look that crossed Youko’s eyes and the snarl lifting his lip and crinkling his nose. For the first time in a long time, the fire demon was scared of his best friend’s alter-ego.
Chapter 8
“Youko…” Hiei whispered confused and he yelped as he hit the ground with the larger Kitsune’s hands against his throat.
“You’re fucking tainted!” The kitsune snarled and Hiei flinched.
‘I knew he would react like this, it’s too late to take it back.’ He turned his head and closed his eyes to stop himself from crying but a sharp smack across the cheek made him meet the cold golden eyes once again.
“Pay attention!” Youko yelled at him before he bared his fangs in anger, growling again. “The least you could have done was come up with a better fucking excuse! You think that your past matters to us?” He snarled gripping Hiei’s shirt collar as he pulled him closer to his face. “You think we care that you an outcast? That you’ve killed before? That your ‘The forbidden child?’ Big fucking deal you son of a bitch!” Youko slammed Hiei back against the ground and the Jaganshi just took it allowing the Youko to release his anger.
Hiei was surprised when Youko released his shirt and sat down on the grass with a deep sigh, attempting to calm himself.
“How dare you leave Kurama the way you did, do you have any idea how much you hurt him. How much pain he went through?” Youko asked, breaking the silence they had fallen into.
Hiei was again surprised when he looked up at Youko. The Kitsune had his eyes clenched tightly shut and a few tears that he was trying to hold back, leaked from his eyes. “He would cry himself to sleep every night and I couldn’t comfort him, because I can’t hold a solid body. My poor kit, I couldn’t do anything to help but talk to him. And all because of your stupid pride.” Youko sighed and Hiei looked at him with sad eyes.
“It wasn’t my pride… I’d give up that if it meant that Kurama would be happy. I left because I don’t want to hurt him…” Hiei whispered and he flinched when Youko snarled again.
“But you did! More than you will ever know and more then he shows…” Youko’s voice lowered as he finished before he stood and turned to leave. He stopped before he looked down at Hiei.
“You best take a good look at yourself Hiei, you make sure those words you spoke are true. Kurama cannot take another betrayal and if you so much as make him shed one more tear. My feelings for you aside, I will never forgive you.” With that Youko flattened his ears so they were nestled amongst his hair, he wrapped his tail around his waist till he looked almost human and he stepped out of the clearing to go find Ryou.
Hiei watched him go with confusion.
‘Did he just admit to having feelings for me?’ Hiei questioned his ears before shaking his head. ‘He must have meant our friendship.’ Hiei then thought about the Youko’s other words. ‘Do I really mean it when I say I love Kurama?’ He asked himself as he lay in the grass where Youko had left him.
“Ryou.” Youko called out as he approached the swing set where Ryou was swinging. “It’s time to go.” He said and Ryou got off the swing to stand by his side.
“Is Mr Hiei coming with us?” Ryou asked hopeful and Youko shook his head.
“He needs some time to himself little one.” Youko told him before he led the way out through the park gates.
“He really does love Papa Father. I can see it in his eyes but he has himself convinced that Papa could never love him back because of his past.” Ryou spoke and Youko silently listened before they fell into silence. “Father?” Ryou called his attention and Youko looked at him with a smile so Ryou continued. “Do you and Papa love Mr Hiei, like how you love eachother?”
Youko was shocked by the question but he sighed before looking towards the sky. “Kit, I love them both with all my heart, just as I know your Papa does but you must understand. Hiei does not care for me in that sense. His feelings are only for your Papa.” Youko tried to explain and the teen looked at him confused.
“But why doesn’t he care about you?” Ryou sounded hurt and Youko couldn’t understand why Hiei not loving him upset the young boy.
“Ryou, he does care about me, just not in the way he cares for Papa and the way you care for Bakura.” Youko explained and Ryou still looked sad but before he could say something else Youko stopped and knelt down by him.
“No more about Hiei young one. You run off inside now alright, Papa and I will see you next week.” Youko said before pulling Ryou into a hug.
“Ok Father, goodbye.” Ryou whispered before he pulled out of the embrace and ran into the orphanage. Youko watched him go before making his way back to the temple to await Kurama’s return from spirit world.
Hiei wasn’t sure how many hours he had lay in the grass thinking about his situation with Kurama when he finally sat up. He went to leave the park to head back to the temple when he remembered something. ‘The bully, I completely forgot.’ He thought before he got up and flittered towards the orphanage, he stood in the same dead tree he had occupied earlier and looked over the house.
‘Ryou!’ He called out in his mind and he smiled as the door opened to reveal the teen.
“Mr Hiei, why have you come back?” Ryou asked confused and Hiei smiled.
“It’s my turn to ask a question.” He said and a big grin crossed Ryou’s face.
“Yes it is.” The teen nodded before he climbed up the tree to sit on the branch beside Hiei. “But we must stay here, Miss Mai wouldn’t be happy if I went out again.” He explained and Hiei nodded.
“You may not wish to answer me Ryou but please try too.” Hiei started and Ryou looked at him nervously before nodding. “Who did this?” The fire demon asked gesturing to Ryou’s wrapped arm. Ryou sighed with relief as he answered.
“Father of cause, he is great with plant remedies.” Ryou brushed his fingers along the leaf wrap on his arm with a smile.
“No Ryou, I mean who hurt you. Why did Youko have to heal you?” Hiei reworded his question and Ryou looked down at his hands before he looked up at Hiei with determined eyes.
“If I tell you are you going to leave and do something about him?” He asked in a hard voice and Hiei was shocked by his tone.
“If it means your protection, I will take care of him.” Hiei growled in a protective voice and Ryou nodded as if he already knew the answer.
“Before I tell you, you have to promise to answer me one more question before you leave.” Ryou bargained and Hiei reluctantly nodded.
“You have my word.” He whispered and Ryou nodded trusting his words before he shifted nervously. After a few minutes silence, Ryou finally spoke.
“His name is Zoku… He…” Ryou stopped and sighed. Hiei rubbed his back gently and Ryou gave him a grateful smile before he finished. “He has been bullying me ever since Bakura asked me out. Zoku likes Bakura and blames me for them not being together.” Hiei growled at the teens words and he went to take off before the small hand on his arm pulled him back.
Hiei looked down at Ryou who was looking at him expectantly. Then Hiei remembered the last question he had to answer. He settled back and looked at Ryou with a nod and the teen took a deep breath.
“Why don’t you love Father the way you love Papa.” Ryou’s stern voice and words shocked Hiei and his eyes widened as he took in the words.
“I…” He was at a loss for words, before he told Ryou exactly how he felt. “To be completely honest with you Kid, I’ve never thought of Kurama and Youko as two separate beings until today and my talk with you. I love Kurama as a whole, demon side and all. So I guess that means that I feel the same for your Father as I do your Papa.” Hiei thought out loud and he wasn’t sure if the grin on Ryou’s face could get any bigger. “Now inside with you, and do not go out into the streets for the next few days, I need some time to rest and think before I go and track down Zoku.” Hiei explained and before Ryou could thank him the fire demon was gone.
Chapter 9
Kurama quickly headed up the steps to the temple. His visit to spirit world had taken longer than expected and it was now mid-afternoon the next day. He stopped releasing a small smile when he saw Hiei resting in a tree on the outskirts of Genkai’s forest. He was going to approach the fire demon but stopped himself with a shake of his head before running into the temple.
Hiei opened his eyes and watched the ghostly figure of Kurama enter the open door of the temple.
‘So that’s what they meant, the spirit not in control can manifest his own body, it’s just not solid.’ Hiei longed to go after Kurama but he stayed where he was. He had woken up this morning to Yukina again and after slight influence on her side, he Youko and Yukina shared a tense breakfast, Hiei escaped the minute he could and returned to his tree to think. Falling back asleep after a short while. He looked over just as Kurama vanished inside and he focused on the house and the conversation going on inside.
“Youko! Yukina! I’m back!” The red-head called out and he smiled when he sensed them in the kitchen. He headed in and frowned, looking at his friend and partner. “Where are Yusuke and Kuwabara?” Youko turned to smile at him.
“They went home yesterday, Keiko needs their help with the shop today and tomorrow they are busy, I also hear that Shizuru has something she needs them to do as well so they won’t be free for a while yet.” Youko laughed in explanation before he walked over to Kurama. He held his hand to the youngers cheek, and sighed at not being able to touch him. “You must be tired love, we will switch so you can rest your energy.”
Kurama nodded before he returned to their shared body and took control. Youko then appeared beside the now solid red-head and smiled before he sat on the table.
“Youko I know you’re a ghost, but can you at least sit on the chair.” Yukina laughed as she placed a steaming cup of tea on the table for Kurama and sat down herself.
“Sorry Yukina.” The fox apologised with a laugh before he took the seat beside Kurama.
“Now Kurama, what were your findings. Did Koenma help any?” Yukina asked and Kurama nodded with a bright smile.
“Hiei doesn’t have to be in the room. Unlike Yusuke, Hiei’s power can be projected. He just has to be near, not with us.” Kurama explained and Hiei started from his tree.
‘Why are they talking about me and my power?’ He wondered and continued to listen.
“So your saying that if Hiei agrees to use his Jagan to lend us enough Ki for me to hold a solid form until our mating is complete, after we mark eachother my body will be permanently solid, feeding off the Ki shared through our mating bond?” Youko asked with excitement and Kurama nodded happily. Hiei was so shocked he almost fell out of the tree.
‘If I lend them my Ki, Youko can get his own body?’ Hiei was about to jump down and head into the temple when Kurama’s sigh reached his mind.
“Kurama what’s wrong? This is good news.” Yukina asked worried and Hiei could feel the misery coming from Kurama in waves, even from his spot outside.
“I should have thought this through. Hiei can’t stand to be in the same courtyard as me. Why would he even consider helping? He…” Kurama was cut off shocked by Hiei’s voice.
“I’ll do it, I’ll help you two.” Hiei said looking off to the side to avoid the tears that were building up in Kurama’s eyes. Hiei’s eyes met with Youko who was glaring at him and the fire demon smiled slightly.
‘You said I couldn’t make him cry from pain, you said nothing about happiness.’ Hiei smirked as Youko shook his head before he spoke up.
“Are you sure?” He asked and Hiei nodded.
“I will remain on the outskirts of this forest, and keep my Ki high enough that your body will stay solid for at least an hour.” With that said Hiei vanished and the three in the room felt the burst of energy that he released. Youko sighed as he rubbed his hands together, sighing at the feel of his own skin. Kurama looked at him with tears streaming down his cheeks, the red-head lifted his hand and brushed it against Youko’s skin as a smile broke across his face.
“You’re really here.” He whispered and Youko leaned into his touch.
“Yes love.” His soft voice responded and Kurama threw his arms around Youko’s neck with a cry of joy.
They stayed in their embrace for almost five minutes before Yukina cleared her throat to get their attention. They looked at her with confusion and she just smiled at them fondly.
“My brother can’t keep his energy peaked for too long before he gets tired. He will no doubt be drained within the next half-an-hour. He may have said an hour but you two should know better.” Yukina lightly spoke and Kurama nodded before he dragged Youko down the hallway and into one of the temple’s spare rooms.
Once inside with the door locked Youko took the lead. He pulled Kurama over to the bed and lay him down before straddling his waist. He then joined their lips in a light kiss which was quickly deepened. The Kitsune’s hands began to wonder rubbing lightly against Kurama’s neck before they unbuttoned the red-head’s shirt. He tossed it to the side and dragged his claws down the tender skin of Kurama’s chest before pulling back from their kiss.
“Love, I will not go all the way. I know how much you wish for Hiei to be your first.” Youko whispered before he leaned down and began kissing Kurama’s neck while his hands worked on the red-head’s pants. Kurama moaned lightly as Youko nipped at a sensitive part of his neck and the Kitsune chuckled. “But that won’t stop us from having alittle fun.” He purred as his hand drifted to his partner’s hard length.
Kurama released a deep moan as Youko started stroking him. The Kitsune smiled, happy with his partner’s reaction and he slowly started kissing his way down Kurama’s chest. He stopped to pay some attention the red-heads nipples and Kurama moaned his appreciation, his hands tangling in Youko’s silver locks. Youko chuckled as Kurama’s hands tried to push him lower and he relented, kissing down Kurama’s stomach till he reached the red-head’s hips. He lightly licked at the hard length before taking it into his mouth and giving it a strong suck. Kurama yelped out in pleasure before he bit into his hand to try and stop his noise.
Youko laughed at him around the hard length causing the red-head more pleasure and Kurama couldn’t hold back the cry that fell from his lips. Youko started bobbing his head while one of his hands stroked his loves thighs and the other hand fondled lightly with his jewels. Youko pulled back licking at the hard length as he spoke.
“Come on love, Come for me.” He whispered before he deep-throated Kurama in on go and began humming. Kurama moaned deeply as he came into his partner’s mouth and Youko happily swallowed it all, his tail wagging behind him. When the red-head dropped onto his back after releasing Youko pulled back with a smile as he licked his lips. He then leaned forward and pulled Kurama into a deep kiss.
Both moaned as their tongues fought and when Youko pulled back Kurama whined. The red-head reached up to caress Youko’s ears and the demon started purring.
“That’s cheating.” He whispered as he leaned down and kissed Kurama again. The red-head chuckled before pulling away this time.
“Now I know I just have to pat you and you will do what I want.” Youko growled playfully at Kurama’s words before he leaned down to lick at the sensitive spot on Kurama’s neck that he had found earlier.
“Are you ready?” He whispered and at Kurama’s nod Youko sunk his fangs into the tender flesh, Kurama’s cry of pleasure rang through the room. Youko smiled lightly as he fed some of his Ki into the mark before he pulled back and licked at the permanent scar that would be left.
“My turn now.” Kurama whispered before he pulled Youko down on top of him before sinking his on sharpened teeth into the kitsune’s neck. Youko purred grinding down against Kurama’s hips in pleasure and the red-head moaned as he fed some of his own Ki into the wound, leaving a similar mark to his own.
When Kurama retracted his canines from Youko’s neck the kitsune nuzzled into his chin with a happy sigh. They lay in silence before a chuckle broke out from Kurama’s chest.
“You know this wasn’t very fair. You’re still fully dressed.” He spoke with a pout and Youko just smiled before lightly kissing him.
“All in good time love.” He responded before relaying his head against Kurama’s chest with closed eyes, his tail lazily flicking against the blankets.
Chapter 10
Yukina looked out the front door to see her Brother in a deep sleep in one of the trees off to the left. The Ki he had been emitting the previous day had dimmed and stoped almost half-an-hour after he offered to help. She smiled before going back into the temple and heading down the hallway towards the room Kurama and Youko had gone into. She lightly pushed the door open and smiled at the two tangled on the bed. They were both deep in sleep, Youko was nuzzled into Kurama’s chest and his tail was resting over Kurama’s hips covering him from view. Yukina lightly closed the door before heading back out into the dining room where she sat down to read.
‘No point in bothering any of them for breakfast, they need their rest.’ She thought before she opened her book and got comfortable.
Youko awoke with a stretch and he smiled down at Kurama who continued to sleep peacefully beneath him. He slowly got up and pulled the covers over Kurama’s naked body. He looked down at himself, laying his hands on his chest as if to check if he was still real. His ears swivelled and his tail flicked in excitement before he ran from the room.
“Yukina!” He yelped as he ran into the loungeroom, the blue-haired woman looked up at him. “I’m here, and Kurama’s in there! It worked!” Youko yelped again before he ran from the house with a smiling Yukina looking after him. Youko stopped on the veranda before he spotted Hiei in one of the trees. He then leapt at the fire demon knocking them both to the floor.
Hiei was startled awake by the action before looking at the purring kitsune who was hugging him with confusion.
“What?” He asked rubbing the sleep from his eyes.
“Hiei! It worked! Thank you so much!” Youko praised as he nuzzled into the fire demons chest. He then realised what he was doing and backed up a meter before sitting cross-legged with his tail flicking beside him.
Hiei sat up regarding the Youko before he felt for Kurama’s Ki. The two were indeed separate. He looked back at Youko, eyes flickering over the mark on his neck before he breathed in deep. The kitsune smelled similar to Kurama but with a more woodland scent then flowers. Youko watched as sadness flickered through red eyes which usually hid all emotion.
“Congratulations.” The Jaganshi whispered before he flittered off.
Youko watched him go with a whine, his ears laid back and his tail limp. Yukina stood in the entrance way of the temple watching the saddened Youko with sympathetic eyes. She crossed the lawn and placed a hand on the kitsune’s shoulder.
“You cannot expect him to be happy Youko, he just helped you mate with the love of his life. On any level, he would be hurting greatly.” Yukina explained and Youko’s ears drooped further.
“We didn’t mate per say. Kurama is still a virgin.” He responded and Yukina smiled.
“I know that, but Hiei does not.” Youko looked up at her with sad eyes before standing and heading back inside. Yukina followed closely behind him.
Hiei stopped at the bottom of the temple steps and looked back with a sigh, he then flittered off again. Stopping on the roof of a shop in town. With the Ki he had used returned to him after a nights rest, he pulled the ward from his forehead and searched the city for Zoku, quickly locating the human on the east side of town. What confused Hiei was the upper B class energy surrounding the human.
He hurried across town stopping on the outskirts of the city. He followed the humans scent stopping when he reached Dayton bridge, down on the dry pathway were two teens. Hiei instantly recognized the blue-haired human as Zoku, what surprised him was the grey-haired teen holding the human a meter off the ground. The B class energy was coming from the stranger. Hiei stayed where he was watching as the demon shook the human with rage in his eyes.
“I’ve finally found you, you elusive fuck!” The demon growled and Zoku began to tremble in his grasp. “Didn’t I warn you pathetic human!” The grey-haired teen growled and Zoku whimpered, flinching away from the cold blood-red eyes boring into him.
“I haven’t gone near him, I swear!” Zoku yelped out and received a right hook that threw him into the ground.
“Don’t lie to me!” the demon yelled taking a threatening step forward and the human scrambled back.
“I do not lie! I haven’t touched your Ryou.” Zoku whimpered as the demon slammed his foot into his chest. Hiei stepped forward at the sound of Ryou’s name but didn’t go down.
A vicious snarl tore through the demon’s chest when Zoku used the kids name and he stamped his foot, drawing blood from the Human’s mouth.
“You think I couldn’t smell his blood? You think I wouldn’t go check on him? I have warned you time and time again about touching my mate!” Hiei looked on shocked as the demon pulled the human right to him and was surprised when the human spit in his face.
“Ryou isn’t your mate, he is Bakura’s.” The human laughed and shadows started to drift from the demons body, as his anger rose but he looked down, tossing Zoku off to the side with a defeated sigh. “Even so, this is your last warning Zoku. Touch Ryou or Bakura at all, and you will not walk away again.” With that the demon turned, noticing Hiei.
Hiei watched as with a grunt, similar to his own, the grey-haired teen took off. Hiei looked at Zoku, before deciding that he had been punished enough, he then turned and flittered after the other demon.
He found the demon in the park, sitting up in one of the trees, hidden from any humans. The demon looked down at him confused and Hiei smirked joining him on the branch.
“Why have you followed me?” The demon asked and Hiei regarded him before responding.
“Tell me your name first, Shadow Demon.” He grunted and an eerie look crossed the demon’s eyes before he looked away.
“My name is Akefia...” He responded reluctantly and Hiei nodded.
“Hiei.” The Jaganshi replied before silence fell over them. Akefia eventually looked up at Hiei with a strange look in his eyes.
“Now answer my question.” He growled and Hiei nodded.
“I have multiple questions to ask you, all of which regard Ryou.” Hiei spoke pretending not to care and he received a glare form Akefia.
“What about my Ryou!” The grey-haired teen shouted and watched as Hiei dropped to the ground and started out of the park. Interest peaked now, Akefia followed quickly falling into step beside him.
“I guess I’ll start with how do you know Ryou?” Hiei spoke and Akefia looked down.
“Ryou is mated to my best friend…” Akefia whispered and Hiei looked at him confused.
“This seems to make you depressed, why are you not happy for your friend and his mate?” Hiei asked confused, dully noting that this was quite similar to his own situation involving Youko and Kurama.
Akefia looked over him with guarded eyes before speaking.
“I love Bakura with all my heart and soul, I’d die for him and I know he feels the same for me, but... Ryou’s the one. And I cannot compete even if I wished too.” Hiei watched him continue walking from his frozen position.
‘It’s the same situation I’m in, except Kurama does not return my feelings.’ Hiei thought before Akefia stopped and glanced back at him.
“You coming?” The grey-haired teen called and Hiei nodded, hurrying to catch up.
Chapter 11
Kurama yawned as he stretched rubbing the sleep from his still closed eyes. He rolled over and flung his arm over Youko, but the limb just hit the mattress and Kurama rolled off the bed. He glared at the wooden floor of his room in the temple before sitting up with a sigh.
“I guess it didn’t work.” He muttered with a depressed sigh.
He got up and exited the room before trudging down the hallway. The smell of food and hot tea drew his attention and he headed for the kitchen, stopping short and shocked when he saw Yukina cooking and Youko sitting at the table. Their eyes met ad immediately Kurama’s hands went to his own body. Youko waited for the news to sink in before Kurama tackled him to the floor.
“Your still here!” He yelped in his joy and Youko nodded rubbing his back.
“Good morning love.” Youko replied and he released a light moan as Kurama pulled him into a deep kiss. The two stopped when Yukina cleared her throat.
Kurama quickly climbed off his mate, pulling Youko up by the hand and the two settled into their chairs. Yukina placed the finished food before the two with a smile as she sat down.
“So how are things with Ryou going?” She asked and Kurama smiled happily.
“Things are doing great, with my new promotion to manager, I’m pulling in a lot more money. Another two months or so and we will be able to provide enough for Ryou to come live with us.” Kurama responded around the food he was eating and Youko smiled, before frowning when Yukina spoke again.
“Will you two not allow me to help you with this? I can supply all the money you will need for him easily. You know that…” The young Koorime whispered and Kurama sighed before rubbing his palm on her cheek.
“I know you can and want to help Yukina, but I will not accept that kind of aid. Not after all you have been through because of it. You know how precious you are to the both of us, and I do not want to see you cry, regardless of the emotions behind it.” His gentle voice brought a soft smile to Yukina’s face and she nodded.
“Now, I have to go into work today so I need to be off.” Kurama spoke lightly as he stood and kissed Youko’s left ear before heading out of the temple and making his way home to get ready.
“Well this is strange…” Youko muttered and Yukina looked at him confused. “Kurama isn’t present and I’m in my own body, what am I to do with the day?” At his words Yukina laughed before taking him outside.
“Akefia?” Hiei voiced at the teen looked at him waiting for him to finish. “You love Bakura and Ryou is Bakura’s mate… How do you feel about Ryou?” He whispered and Akefia stared at him with calculating eyes before answering.
“I love him, Ryou has always made a soft spot in me and it’s because of him that I am no longer who I used to be… And it’s a good thing, I admit I was not proud of my life before, and it’s due to Ryou’s kindness and light that I was able to break away from my old life. I may not be able to be with ether of them, but I am content in the shadows, watching them from afar.” The shadow demon responded and Hiei nodded and a silence took over them once again. Hiei thought about Akefia’s words as he thought of his next question.
“How did you meet Bakura?” He asked and Akefia shook his head with a light smirk.
“I thought you were only going to ask about Ryou.” The demon laughed and Hiei smirked back at him.
“You intrigue me, you are much like myself and Ryou is important to me on some level. Will you answer my question?” Akefia’s sharp eyes narrowed at the other demon, boring into blood red eyes of the same colour before he glanced away, his expression softening.
“I used to be a thief, during one of my heists, I crossed paths with Bakura and his band of followers. We were both storming a well-protected castle and we were ambushed, it seems that they knew we were both coming. One of the soldiers managed to fatally wound one of Bakura’s high court and I immediately went to the soldiers aid, while Bakura led both our bands from the castle and out to safety. I barely managed to get both me and Bakura’s comrade out alive and Bakura aided in the rest of the escape out into the forest. During camp that night while tending to those who were injured, we decided that we should travel together. From there he became my closest and most trusted partner. Over the years we became sexual towards each other, and eventually we became lovers even going as far as to mate.” Akefia said with his hand against his neck where Hiei could see the fading mark against the pale skin.
“If you are mated, why did Bakura go with Ryou instead of you.” Hiei asked confused and Akefia sighed, before lowering his hand.
“Our mating was based purely off friendship that grew into love. Ryou… Ryou was the one, Bakura’s soul mate. As you know most demons can go their whole lives, taking several mates but without finding their soul mate. Bakura has, and for that I will protect Ryou with everything I am, because it will keep my mate happy.” Hiei thought about the words before asking something he felt he would regret.
“But Ryou is human, why bother? When he passes, Bakura will turn back to you. Isn’t that what you want?” Hiei asked and lowered his eyes as Akefia snarled ferrely.
“Never!” He snarled baring his fangs looking much like his wolf mate would. “I care for that boy as much as I care for Bakura. As far as I’m concerned he is my mate aswell, I will never let harm befall him as long as I am capable of protecting him.” His voice lowered as he spoke. “Besides he won’t die of old age.” He muttered and Hiei looked at him startled.
“What?”
“The boy is still a virgin, Bakura doesn’t believe he is ready for that level of intimacy yet but they have mated, and as you know when a Demon mates a Human, the human’s lifespan is prolonged, Wolves mate for life. Ryou’s lifespan has been lengthened to match that of Bakura.” Akefia explained and Hiei sighed that the kid would live for a long time.
‘Wait! Do they know?’ He asked himself before voicing his thoughts.
“Do Kurama and Youko know of Ryou’s extended lifespan?” Hiei asked and Akefia looked at him startled.
“How do you know the fox and his human? Come to think of it, how do you know Ryou?” Akefia finally voiced what he had been wondering since meeting the fire demon.
Hiei’s eyes stayed ahead of him as he thought about if he should tell Akefia everything or not. Like himself the demon was only talking to him regarding Ryou, and Akefia had already shared so much with him.
‘I think I can trust him.’ He thought before he sighed and took in a deep breath, before answering all the question’s Akefia had to ask.
Kurama hurried down the street, he had just left his house after showering and dressing. The flower shop where he worked came into view and he raced through the door just as his shift started.
“Just on time, as always.” Marik, his co-worker and the only other person who worked in the shop laughed and Kurama lightly glared at him.
Chapter 12
Hiei and Akefia strolled down the main street in a comfortable silence. One knew about everything to do with the other from ‘Hiei being abandoned as an infant’ to ‘Akefia’s whole village for friends and loved ones was destroyed before his eyes when he was but 10 years old.’ There was nothing that one didn’t know about the other and a peace had passed between the two demons. Their conversation had gone well into the day and it was mid-afternoon now.
“You know, you’re right, we are more alike than I first thought.” The shadow demon laughed and Hiei joined in.
Kurama was startled from his work by the sound of Hiei’s laughter, he looked up to see his fire demon walk passed the shop door with a grey-haired teen by his side, they were both laughing and smiling. Kurama was confused,
‘Who is that?’ He asked himself and jumped when Marik was by his side.
“Go on, I know you want to follow them.” The blonde laughed and Kurama frowned before doing just that, he jumped over the counter, ran across the room and slid out the door, thankful that the shop didn’t have one of those stupid bells. He ducked into the alleyway beside the shop and leapt onto the roof, following above the two demons.
When the laughter died down Hiei smiled up at Akefia.
“Thank you for your company today, after what happened last night, I just really wanted something to kill. But your presence has stopped me from going for blood.” He spoke lightly and Akefia nodded.
“Had I not felt your presence on the bridge, I would not have let that human go. Why were you at the bridge anyway?” Akefia asked and Hiei smiled.
“For Ryou of cause.” He responded with a smirk at Akefia and Kurama started.
‘What? How does Hiei know of Ryou, and what would going to Dayton bridge have to do with my kit?’ He asked in his head confused. Akefia shared Kurama’s expression and Hiei laughed at him.
“I told you of my talk with the boy and our question for question game. He is a bright kid, it didn’t take me long to get him to tell me that the person who hurt him was Zoku. After getting the information and leaving, I went back to the temple to rest before hunting the prick down. But that’s when Youko and Kurama made the request. The next morning after I slept off the use of my powers, Youko came out and thanked me for my help… I didn’t know what to do so I fled… Again.” He growled at his cowardice before continuing. “Then I found you, a demon already wailing into the human so I just let it be. Zoku had already been punished for what he did to Ryou. Granted I would have killed him, but he is human and I know Kurama does not approve of taking human life, being half-breed.” Hiei explained and Akefia nodded.
“After seeing Ryou’s wound I just flew into a blind rage, Zoku had been avoiding my presence for days, skipping out of the area every time I got close. When I finally caught him, My anger had simmered, he was lucky.” Akefia laughed and Hiei joined in again.
Ryou watched them with sad eyes.
“Hiei has never been that comfortable with anyone but me.’ He thought before noticing the mating mark on Akefia’s neck and he whimpered lightly stopping himself so the two demons didn’t hear him. ‘They must be mates, maybe that’s why Hiei is always hiding his neck.’
Hiei looked at Akefia, deep in thought before he finally spoke, shocking both Kurama and Akefia with his words.
“If you were given the chance to be with the two men you love, would you take it?” He asked and Akefia stopped looking at him shocked, his words were instant.
“Of cause I would! After everything I’ve told you, how could you ask such a stupid question, Both Bakura and Ryou mean the world to me. If ever I had the chance I would wish to share Ryou’s mark aswell.” Akefia confessed as he rubbed his neck where Bakura’s mark was. Hiei nodded to his words.
Kurama glared down at the grey-haired demon confused to no end and unsure how to feel.
‘Ryou so has some explaining to do.’ He growled in his head before Akefia’s next question reached his mind.
“Hiei, why do you ask?” Akefia looked at him with worry as sadness shaded over dull blood.
“I…” Hiei started unsure how to go about it, Akefia outstretched his hand to catch the three jewels that fell from the fire demon’s face. He looked down at them shocked.
“You really are part Koorime…” He muttered amazed and Kurama watched on startled as a few more tears fell from Hiei’s eyes, Akefia catching them all. He then wiped his hand across Hiei’s cheek to stem the flow, clenching his fist around the 12 gems in his hand. “Why do you shed these tears Hiei, what is wrong?” His worried voice came and Hiei took a deep breath.
“Before their mating yesterday, Youko approached me while I was with Ryou. After sending Ryou off to play and once we were alone he slapped me to make sure I was paying attention before saying some things I did not understand then. How did he expect me to react to my feelings, just take them as they come? I’ve been shunned my whole life, my own mother didn’t even want me, what would have ever made me think someone let alone he could return my feelings. I was blind to think that my leaving wouldn’t affect Kurama and Youko made sure I knew how much pain I cause both him and the fox. He said I did it because of my pride, but as I told him I’d give up my pride, my free will, heck even my power if it meant that Kurama would be happy. I left because I didn’t want to hurt him. I denied myself the truth about my feelings and the feelings of those around me, In hopes that everyone would not get hurt.” Akefia placed a hand on Hiei’s shoulder in comfort and Kurama watched his best friend with tears streaming from his eyes.
‘He really does care about us.’ Kurama rubbed at his eyes as Akefia spoke.
“Go to him, go to the both of them. Tell them the truth Hiei, your miserable, it’s clear they love you and you love them. What’s stopping you?” The grey-haired teen asked as they started walking again.
“I don’t know, I just can’t tell them. Once Ryou’s adoption goes through the four of them will be happy and you and I will be forgotten about. That is how it should be.” Hiei then walked off faster, Akefia watched him go depressed by the truth of his words before he hurried after Hiei.
Kurama couldn’t stop the second round of tears that fell from his eyes as he watched Hiei’s retreating form and noticed the trail of black gems he was leaving behind. Akefia quickly retrieved them all following behind the other in silence. Three blocks later and two pockets plus a hand full of teargems the trail finally stopped and Hiei looked back at his new friend. His eyes were red and puffy but a quick wipe of both hands cleared that. He pulled a small sack from his pocket and held it out to Akefia, the demon understood, poring the gems into the sack. Hiei counted as they rapidly fell into the bag and smiled slightly.
‘Two-hundred and fourteen Tear gems.” He said and Akefia looked at him confused, before smiling.
‘At least he is happy now.’ He thought before following Hiei as he crossed the road. Kurama stayed on the roof across the street as he watched them enter the front yard of the orphanage.
Hiei stopped in the porch and looked back at Akefia.
“You do not have to be here if you would prefer to see Ryou from a distance.” He spoke and Akefia nodded blurring before he appeared up in the dead tree in the yard.
Kurama watched the small exchange before his eyes followed Akefia to the tree. He then looked back at Hiei on the porch as the fire demon knocked on the old wooden door.
Chapter 13
“Coming!” A cheerful voice called out and Ryou burst through the front door before recognizing Hiei and jumping at him “Mr Hiei!” He yelped happily and Kurama smiled slightly as Hiei enveloped him in a hug.
“Hey Ryou.” He whispered and pulled back smiling at the young one.
“My Hiei, why do you use the door?” Ryou asked and Hiei looked down at the sack in his hand. “And what’s that?” The kid’s voice came out with child-like curiosity. Hiei laughed as he ruffled the young ones hair before standing.
“Kit, can you go get your caretaker for me?” Hiei asked and Ryou nodded, immediately running back inside. When he returned he was pulling a smiling Mai behind him.
“Ryou what is the problem?” She asked laughing as she was tugged along, when she noticed Hiei she stopped confused. “Good morning, how may I help you?” She asked politely, confused when Ryou hugged Hiei’s free arm.
“Good evening Miss?” Hiei started and a warm smile crossed Mai’s face.
“My name is Mai.” She responded holding her hand out, Hiei wiggled his arm out of Ryou’s grip and shook her hand.
“Well hello, My name is Hiei, I am a friend of… Shuuichi and Youko.” He spoke lightly and the woman’s smile grew even larger at the mention of the two.
“This explains your knowledge of Ryou.” Mai nodded before she looked confused. “May I ask why you have come here today?” Hiei nodded before his eyes drifted down to the sack in his hand before he looked back up at her.
“I have come to give the orphanage a donation.” He explained and Mai’s eyes looked at him uncertainly.
“Youko and Shuuichi have already done so much for us, I couldn’t possibly accept money from their friends also.” She explained and Hiei sighed.
“This building needs repairs, the land needs replenishing and the children need there essentials. Are you telling me that because of Youko and Shuuichi’s donations you will deny my money that can provide these things for the young ones?” Hiei asked in a stern but hollow voice that un-nerved Mai and the woman franticly shook her head.
“Of cause I wouldn’t deny these kids anything.” She cried and Hiei nodded with a smile.
“Good, then here is my donation.” He said holding out the sack and Kurama’s eyes grew wide as he watched Mai take the sack.
‘He is really just going to give all them away, for the sake of five abandoned HUMAN children?’ Kurama was shocked by the generosity and smiled slightly. ‘He has change since I met him that day all those years ago.’
Mai looked into the sack and gasped almost dropping it. Hiei’s quick reflexes caught the sack handing it back to her with a sigh.
“Are these?” She asked stunned and Hiei nodded.
“Hiruseki Stones, yes.” Hiei smiled as she then looked at him confused.
“Aren’t they supposed to be… Icy blue?” She asked and Hiei nodded before looking at the sack full of his treasures.
“These are more valuable, rarer than the originals. A normal Hiruseki Stone can easily fetch a thousand, these however can easily fetch double that. In that sack is Two-hundred and fourteen black Hiruseki Stones, easily four hundred and thirteen thousand when sold. Please use them to make sure these kids have the life they deserve, and with this I expect Ryou’s adoption to be finalized as soon as possible.” Mai stood stunned watching Hiei as he turned to Ryou.
“I’ll see you around Kid.” He said ruffling the white locks before retreating quickly, Akefia joining his side as he left.
“Mr Hiei!” Ryou yelped out and Hiei stopped just through the gate. “Thank you, for everything. I… I forgive you.” He said and Hiei nodded with a slight smile before he took off. Kurama watched them go with a shocked expression before Mai ushered Ryou back inside.
“Come on Ryou, we have much to do today. We have food to buy, oh and new beds, and we can fix that leak in the bathroom. And we can finally get that garden out the front that you want so much.” Her excited voice brought a smile to Kurama’s face before he decided he had heard enough. He then headed back to his apartment where he found Youko waiting for him
.
“I take it you are not ready to face either of them yet?” Akefia asked and Hiei nodded, watching his feet as they walked. “Come on, I’ll take you back to the den, you can spend the night there and see them tomorrow.” Akefia then lead him off down the street. Hiei followed at a fast pace.
It took them five minutes to reach the den, Hiei immediately recognized the ‘den’ as an abandoned building and vaguely remembered Ryou saying Bakura lived in an a similar place. They crawled in through a crack in the wall and into a darkened room. A burst of energy from inside shocked Hiei, but Akefia didn’t seem bothered.
“Calm down Kura it’s just me.” Akefia called out and the Ki lowered somewhat.
“Kef, who do you bring into our dwelling?” A deep voice asked and Akefia smiled.
“Friend of Ryou’s.” He answered and the Ki vanished completely before the room lit up and Hiei was surprised at the sight of the third person, the teen could easily pass as Ryou’s twin, except he was taller, battle worn, had two mating marks on his neck, on either side, the left more prominate then the right and had pitch black hair.
“You must be Bakura.” Hiei initiated stepping forward with an out stretched hand. Bakura flared his Ki on instinct at the stronger demon before he cautiously took the fire demons hand in his own. He sniffed lightly at Hiei and the demon allowed him too.
“You smell of him, he seemed happy by your presence. I’m glad to know of his well-being. However your scent is unfamiliar. I do not recognize you at all. What are you to my mate?” Bakura asked releasing the hand and looked at the demon who stood level with his height. Akefia disappeared deeper into the dwelling with a slight smile.
“If things go according to plan he will be Ryou’s dad.” His cheerful voice reached both their ears and Hiei blushed deeply before Bakura’s face took on a thoughtful expression.
“Ahh so you’re the one. The demon that completely shattered the great spirit foxes heart.” Bakura spoke as if it was common knowledge and at the harshness of his words, Hiei flinched. “Do not worry, I hold no judgement towards you for your actions.” Bakura whispered and Hiei could see the longing in those deep blue eyes as Bakura watched Akefia who was lying face first on the makeshift bed. “Let me say one more thing before I drop this subject.” Bakura said looking back at Hiei. “Both Youko and Kurama hold the same depth of love for you, that I hold Ryou.” He said and Hiei nodded knowing that silently Bakura threw ‘And Akefia.’ on the end.
Bakura then stalked over to Akefia and kicked the shadow demon of the bed before getting comfortable himself.
“Now get some sleep, or shut up. I was in the middle of a good rest.” The wolf demon growled and Akefia got to his feet with a smile before laying down on the bed, curling up beside Bakura.
Hiei smiled at the lack of reaction Bakura paid him before he sighed and made himself comfortable where he was.
‘Tomorrow, I’ll do it tomorrow.’ He thought and he left his mind to wander before sleep finally took him.
Chapter 14
“Oi.” The deep voice of Bakura called before a sharp kick landed in his side. “Get up. “ The voice growled again and Hiei batted the foot away before sitting up.
“What’s wrong?” He asked confused on why he was woken up.
“It’s daylight, get moving.” Bakura growled and Hiei looked at him, still confused. “Akefia told me everything. You need to go, your actions are hurting Ryou. Whilst you may think you have done the right thing, you have not. You will tell them both today.” Hiei could tell the wolfs threat was not empty and sighed before standing up. He noticed that the right mating mark on Bakura’s neck had gained its sheen and rivalled the left one.
“When will you tell Ryou.” Hiei asked and Bakura smiled at the thought of his human mate.
“As soon as we are ready to set off. I know he will be busy to day with everything Mai will have planned for the orphanage, Akefia and I will offer our assistance.” Bakura explained and Hiei nodded before he looked down at his hands.
“I can’t say for sure that you three will be my sons the next time we meet Bakura, but I want you to know that I do care for Ryou and he will not feel any more pain caused by myself.” With the words out, Hiei vanished leaving Bakura to go wake his mate.
Hiei headed to the temple first, he wasn’t sure how to go about telling the two of his feelings and what to do once they knew.
‘I know Youko will be sated with just a simple mating but Kurama is human, well part so. Perhaps Yukina would know how to go about a proposal.’
When he reached the temple Yukina was outside sweeping the porch.
“Sister.” Hiei called out and the blue-haired Koorime looked up with a big smile.
“Good morning Brother, what brings you here. You seem rattled.” She spoke with worry and Hiei waved it off.
“I need your help, I wish to... propose to Kurama.” Hiei said reluctantly and before he knew it he had his arms full of Yukina.
“That’s wonderful brother! How will you go about it?” She asked excited and Hiei frowned.
“I was hoping you could help me with that, but I don’t want to take him out to some cheesy dinner at an overpriced restaurant, with the bended knee and ring and the cheering crowd of ease-droppers.” Hiei muttered and Yukina laughed before she thought for a minute before speaking.
“Kurama always told me that you were a great singer, despite you never knowing that he heard you.” Yukina said and Hiei looked at her shocked, blushing lightly. “It’s Friday, the group goes out to a Karaoke bar once a week for a get together and catch up. That’s tonight. Maybe you could sing a song to him?” Yukina suggested and Hiei smiled.
“I like that Idea.” He smiled but looked worried when Yukina frowned. “What is it?” He asked and she looked off to the side.
“What about Youko, they are a two package deal, you can’t have one without the other.” Yukina explained and Hiei smiled again, this time brighter.
“I have every intention of Mating with Youko aswell, I just know he will be satisfied with a mark and not a ring.” With that said, Hiei’s eyes widened. Yukina shook her head at him.
“I will take care of the ring, you just take care of the song.” Hiei nodded to her, pulling her into a light hug. He then went to leave but stopped and delved into his pocket. He pulled out two teargems, Yukina was surprised, one was pitch black and the other was blood red.
“Perhaps you can use these and provide the third colour.” Hiei said as he wrapped Yukina’s hand around the two gems, he then took off again, stopping when Yukina called out.
“Oh and Hiei! Tonight’s theme is Nickleback, one of their songs would work best.” Yukina then watched him go, noticing the smile that flittered across his lips before sighing and leaving the temple. A trip to the Makai was in order.
Hiei stopped as he landed on the branch that outstretched to the red-heads window. He slowly crept forward and looked in. Youko and Kurama were tangled among the sheets, deep in sleep. Hiei then silently slid the window open and snuck in, He smiled down at the two of them, lightly kissing them both, Kurama on the forehead and Youko against his visible ear. He then slipped over to the stereo and removed his Nickelback CD. Looking back at the two once more he made a hasty retreat through the window and down the street.
Youko stirred lightly and looked around he was surprised to see the CD played on with its lid popped and the window open.
‘So he plans to sing.’ Youko thought before he looked down at his peaceful mate, ‘It won’t be long now love.’ He thought before licking Kurama’s cheek and nuzzling into him before allowing sleep to reclaim him.
Hiei stopped before the orphanage, smiling when he saw both Akefia and Bakura cleaning the front lawn of all its dead branches and leaves. He could see Mai through the window on the phone. Ryou was sitting on the steps swinging his legs as he watched the two work. He jumped to his feet when he saw Hiei and ran over to the demon. Hiei pulled him into a hug before looking at the other two demons who stopped working.
“You told him yet?” He asked and Bakura nodded before Hiei looked into Ryou’s sparkling eyes.
“Isn’t it great?” He yelped and Hiei nodded smirking as the wolf and shadow demons got back to work.
“It sure is, now you know you will always be safe.” Hiei whispered before he withdrew the CD from his cloak pocket. “Ryou I need your help with something very important, Can you please come with me for a little while?” Hiei asked and Ryou looked thoughtful before he turned to look at Mai, the woman was watching them through the window.
Ryou made some signs with his hand’s that Hiei did not recognize and Mai nodded to him. Ryou then smiled and turned to Hiei with a nod.
“Kura, Kef, I’m going with Mr Hiei for a little while alright?” He called to the two demons and they both nodded.
“Stay safe love.” Bakura called out and Ryou nodded before taking Hiei’s hand and dragging him off down the street.
“What’s the CD for Mr Hiei?” Ryou asked as he pointed to the disk that Hiei had withdrawn from his cloak when he got to the orphanage.
“This is what I need your help with.” Hiei responded letting Ryou take the CD from him. “But first I need to get a player for it.”
Ryou looked at him with a smile before taking his hand and leading him down the street.
“I know the perfect place to get a stereo for the CD, you do have money right?” Ryou asked looking at Hiei over his should as they walked.
“Money will not be a problem young one, just lead the way.” Hiei responded and Ryou nodded tugging Hiei’s wrist again.
Chapter 15
Ryou excitedly pulled Hiei into an electronics store and over to the main desk where a Blonde, dressed in lavender and black was sitting, Feet on the counter, eyes closed and head-phones in, bobbing his head to the music. Ryou walked over to him and pulled out an ear plug.
“That’s the quickest way to get robbed slacker.” Ryou taunted in a stern voice and the blonde smiled at him.
“Ryou, it’s good to see you. How is Bakura doing?” The blonde asked and Ryou nodded before going to stand beside Hiei again.
“Good, good, but Malik. I’m not here for a personal call, I wanna buy something.” Ryou responded cheerily.
“What can I get for you buddy?” Malik asked standing and looking at Ryou with soft eyes. Hiei growled lightly when the look seemed almost sympathetic, full of pity, but Ryou didn’t seem to notice.
“Can I get a Walkman please? I want to listen to this CD.” Ryou responded holding out the disk and Malik looked over it before thinking. He then disconnected the one at his side and handed it over.
“Here have mine, I’m looking to replace it come next pay anyway.” The blonde smiled and the look that crossed Ryou’s face was priceless, he leapt onto the counter and pulled Malik into a hug. “I know, I know little buddy, besides Bakura would strangle me if I took your money.” He whispered and Ryou nodded before pulling back. He stayed on the counter though with his arms still around Malik’s neck.
“How are you and Marik doing?” He asked in a teasing voice and the blonde blushed brightly.
“Fine now get going.” Malik yelped with affection before turning to the store. “I’ve got other customers too.” The blonde winked at Ryou before watching his friend and Hiei leave. He then went back to resting, while waiting for the other customers to finish shopping.
Hiei was thankful that the blonde didn’t ask about him because he wasn’t sure how to refer to Ryou at the moment. He shook his head as Ryou started off again, leading him to that familiar spot in the park. Once they were settled down Ryou placed the CD in the Walkman and pressed play, he then handed a headphone to Bakura and kept one for himself.
Just as the first song started its beat, Ryou paused it.
“What exactly are we looking for?” Ryou asked with curiosity and Hiei sighed taking a deep breath before he responded, bracing lightly in case of rejection
“I’m looking for a song to sing to... Papa...” Hiei said and Ryou nodded waiting for him to expand on his answer.
‘So far so good.’ Hiei thought before continuing.
“I want to propose to him, tonight.” Hiei finished in a rush and Ryou looked shocked before he pulled Hiei into a hug and nestled into his lap with a big grin.
“Then that means you and Father and Papa will be together?” He asked eyes shining in the sunlight and Hiei nodded. “That’s fantastic! Now let’s find this song for you to sing, what do you wish for it to say?” Ryou asked and Hiei looked down.
“You know of the situation young one, I want it to portray how I feel. That I’m sorry for what I’ve done and that I would never their sides again. That I would always come for them no matter what.” Hiei explained and Ryou nodded before looking at the disk.
“Is there something special about the fifteen songs on this CD?” Ryou questioned and Hiei nodded in response.
“Nickleback is Kurama’s and my favourite band.” He responded with a whisper and Ryou nodded before pressing play. They listened though the list of songs weighing each one for the situation:
Song 1: ‘Lullaby’
Song 2: ‘Holding On To Heaven’
Song 3: ‘Gotta Be Somebody’
Song 4: ‘Follow You Home’
Song 5: ‘Animals’
As the song started Ryou blushed brightly before pressing the next button. Hiei looked at him confused before the young one explained.
“You may feel strongly for Papa and Father, but that is a very bold declaration especially because it refers to them so intimately.” Ryou finished and Hiei nodded accepting the explanation before listening on.
Song 6: ‘Don’t Ever Let It End’
Song 7: ‘Never Gonna Be Alone’
Song 8: ‘Burn It To The Ground’
Song 9: ‘Fight For All The Wrong Reasons’
Song 10: ‘Far Away’
Song 11: 'If Today Was Your Last Day'
Song 12: ‘Next Contestant’
Song 13: ‘If Everyone Cared’
Song 14: ‘Just To Get High’
Song 15: ‘Someone That Your With’
As the final song finished Ryou looked at Hiei with a small smile.
“Four of them catch my interest, ‘Holding On To Heaven’, ‘Don’t Ever Let It End’, ‘Far Away’ and ‘Never Gonna Be Alone.’ But even so none of the really say what you want them too.” Ryou responded and Hiei grunted in agreence, he froze when a light tune drifted from the still on Walkman.
“Ryou wasn’t there only 15 songs?” He asked and the teen nodded before he responded. “There seems to be another song after the last one.” He spoke as he remembered the song Kurama had rushed to stop from playing.
Ryou nodded and the two of them silently listened as the last song played.
Song 16: ‘I’d Come For You’
“This is it!” Ryou said excitedly as the song came to an end. “This is the song, It says exactly what you want it too, Papa will be so happy.” Hiei smiled at the teen bouncing in his lap.
“Come, you must get back to Akefia and Bakura, and I have preparations to make.” Hiei shooed Ryou off his lap before walking him back to the orphanage.
Ryou handed him the Walkman before heading through the gate.
“Keep that to learn the song, the we can return it to Malik when I see you next.” He said before called back over his shoulder as he started to run.
“Good luck Dad!” Hiei smiled as he watched Ryou jump on Bakura, the two of them tumbling into a newly raked pile of leaves, laughing along with Akefia before bidding the three farewell.
Chapter 16
Hiei flittered up the steps and made himself comfortable in his tree. Yukina wasn’t home so that gave him some time to memorise the tune and its words. He placed the headphones in, set the Walkman to repeat and closed his eyes. Allowing the sweet tune to wash over him.
Yukina skipped up the steps with a smile on her face. It had taken quite a few teargems and a few hours of pleading to convince the greedy Makai Jeweller to create the three rings but Yukina was happy with the results, knowing that this would make her brother extremely happy. She laughed lightly when she caught site of Hiei, in his tree, headphones in and snoring lightly.
She woke him up with a small pulse of her Ki and he smiled down at her. It was nearing 5pm and the group went out at 7pm. He jumped down from the tree and pulled her into a hug.
“I see you have picked your song then?” Yukina asked and Hiei nodded.
“How did you go?” He looked over Yukina to make sure she was unharmed after a trip to Makai in her current state and she smiled at his worry.
“I’m fine brother and of cause I had a successful trip.” Yukina then pulled out a little pouch, she pulled the draw-string and dipped her hand in retracting three rings.
The first of the three a Silver band sporting a Black Asian dragon. Hiei’s eyes widened at the detail of the ring as he slipped it over his wedding finger. He then smiled at Yukina as she held out the other two. The second ring was also a Silver band, but this one was sporting Three Red Roses, the middle being the biggest. Again Hiei was surprised by the detail and had to wonder where Yukina went to get them made. The Third and final ring was made completely of an Icy blue substance, Hiei glared as he realised how many teargems it would have taken to make. But he smiled when he realised what the ring was. It was of a fox, made to look like the foxes body was wrapped around your finger, head and tail meeting in the middle. Hiei slipped the two rings back into the pouch, keeping the third on his finger. He then handed her the pouch. She looked down at it confused and he smiled.
“You will know when to give them the rings.” He smiled and she nodded, knowing he had a plan. “Thank you so much sister.” Hiei whispered as he hugged her tightly before pulling away.
“Go, you have a couple more hours to practice. Everyone will be arriving around seven then we will get going.” Yukina shooed him and he smiled before returning to his tree. He watched her go into the temple.
It was 6:55 when Yusuke and Keiko came up the temple steps, they were surprised to see Hiei still hanging around but continued on to be greeted by Yukina, the three then waited for the others to arrive.
By 7:10 everyone was gathered in the temples loungeroom and Hiei was nowhere to be seen.
“Is Hiei coming or is it just us?” Yusuke asked and Yukina shrugged.
“He didn’t say, but we should get going or we will miss our reservation.” Yukina responded and they all left the room to get into Yusuke’s car. Yusuke and Keiko were in the front, while Kuwabara, Yukina and Kurama sat in the back. Youko had opted to run, not liking the thought of riding in the contraption.
After a short ten minutes the car pulled up out the front of the bar. Youko was leaning against the brick wall with his ears pinned down and his tail hidden from sight, he looked slightly annoyed but was happy none-the-less when Kurama joined his side. The others filed out of the car and went inside.
Hiei watched them form his vantage point across the street before he headed in aswell, slipping back stage to get ready and alert the band to what he wished to do.
The group was quickly seated at their table, being regulars there every week and were quickly served. The group enjoyed their drinks creating small chat for almost an hour before the Karaoke was open. Yusuke and Kuwabara fought over who would go first and surprisingly it was Kuwabara who won out, he jumped to his feet and ran to the stage with a huge goofy grin. He told the band his song and grabbed the mic.
“I dedicate this song to my lovely Yukina, you are my best friend and the greatest wife I could ever ask for. You’re going to be a wonderful mother and I love you!” Yukina blushed brightly and the crowd around them cheered as the tune to ‘Holding On To Heaven’ drifted through the room and Kuwabara started singing, Yukina smiled up at her mate listening to his voice as moved around the stage with a happy smile on his face. She unconsciously twirled the ring on her finger, thinking about how happy she was.
When Kuwabara finished he jumped down from the stage and sat down beside Yukina, with his arm around the Koorime’s waist. He looked over at Yusuke expectantly but the Mazoku just stayed where he was.
“I’ll go up soon, let some of the other people here sing first.” He muttered and Kuwabara smirked at him.
“You’re just too afraid to follow up my act!” He laughed and Yusuke shot to his feet.
“Never! You’re on, Ima kick your ass!” The former spirit detective shouted as he scrambled towards the stage and jumped up, snatching the mic and telling the band his song. The drummer shook his head at the teen who frequented the bar and counted the beat for
‘Don’t Ever Let It End’ drifted through the room.
Yusuke Started singing with a huge grin in his face, he looked directly at Keiko as he sung and the brunette blushed even brighter then Yukina before sinking into her seat. When Yusuke was finished he went and sat down with a triumphant grin and Kuwabara glared at him. The two then broke into laughter before settling into the table. Yusuke leaned over and kissed a still blushing Kieko lightly on the cheek before turning his attention to the redhead on his left. He nudged Kurama’s shoulder and the teen looked at him with confusion. At the look in Yusuke’s eyes Kurama knew exactly what he wanted and franticly shook his head, sinking deeper into his chair. He had managed to avoid singing during their nights out with help from Youko but tonight even Youko seemed to want Kurama to sing. His resistance held up for less the two minutes before he found himself on the stage before the microphone. He sighed before looking back at the band and muttering his song choice.
Chapter 17
The soft beat of ‘Trying Not To Love you’ entered the club and Kurama shut his eyes as he started singing.
“You call to me and I fall at your feet, how could anyone ask for more?” Hiei’s head shot up from the lyric sheet he was reading at the sound of Kurama’s voice.
“And our time apart like knives in my heart, how could anyone ask for more?” Hiei flitted to the side of the stage and glanced out, greeted by the sight of Kurama bathed in stage light, eyes closed as he sang.
“But if there’s a pill to help me forget, god knows I haven’t found it yet. But I’m dying to, god I’m trying to…” Kurama opened his eyes unaware of the rich red watching him from the shadows backstage. He locked eyes with Youko who gave him a comforting smile and he returned the gesture before taking a deep breath and raising his voice.
“Cause trying not to love you, only goes so far. Trying not to need you, is tearing me apart. Can’t see the silver lining, from down here on the floor. And I just keep on trying, but I don’t know what for. Cause trying not to love you…” Kurama lowered his eyes to the floor before breathing out the last line filled with pain and sorrow. “Only makes me love you more…” Youko stood up and ran to the stage, he jumped up and moved to stand beside Kurama. “Only makes me love you more…” Kurama repeated and his shocked eyes shot to Youko as the fox took the microphone and continued the next part of the song.
“And this kind of pain, only time takes away, that’s why it’s harder to let you go.” He sang as he lifted Kurama’s chin with a finger and stroked his cheek. Hiei watched the tender moment with sad eyes. “And nothing I can do, without thinking of you, that’s why it’s harder to let you go.” Youko smiled before turning out to the stage and continuing in a strong voice. Kurama just closed his eyes and listened to his mates deeper voice. “But if there’s a pill to help me forget, god knows I haven’t found it yet. But I’m dying to, god I’m trying to…” Youko turned his head and locked eyes with Hiei who just watched him in silence. Youko smiled slightly as he continued. “Cause trying not to love you, only goes so far. Trying not to need you, is tearing me apart. Can’t see the silver lining, from down here on the floor. And I just keep on trying, but I don’t know what for. Cause trying not to love you…” He then turned from Hiei and smiled down at Kurama who returned the loving gaze. “Only makes me love you more…” He then passed the microphone back and wrapped his arms around Kurama’s waist, his front flush against Kurama’s back and his head resting on the teens shoulder.
Kurama sighed before singing the bridge. “So I sit here divided, just talking to myself. Was it something that I did? Was there somebody else? When a voice from behind me, that was fighting back tears. Sat right down beside me, whispered right in my ear. Said, I’ve been dying to tell you…” He sang, his voice lowering towards the end, he turned his head and looked into Youko’s eyes as they both sang the last part together.
“That trying not to love you, only went so far. That trying not to need you, was tearing me apart. Now I see the silver lining, from what we’re fighting for. We just keep on trying, then we could be much more. Cause trying not to love you, Oh, yeah, trying not to love you.”
Kurama sang the last line alone. “Only makes me love you more.”
Youko gave Hiei one last fleeting glance before resting his forehead against Kurama’s, whispering the final line. “Only makes me love you more.”
Cheers erupted from the crowd and it jolted the two from their current state, Youko glanced backstage but frowned when he couldn’t find Hiei. His attention was drawn back to Kurama with a tug on his hand. Youko followed the younger back to their table and sat down, sitting the younger in his lap and hugging him close. Ignoring their friends who seemed to get the hint, leaving them alone, a silence took over the table. After a few minutes Yusuke broke it.
“I’m hungry, let’s get some food.” The Mazoku whined and Youko laughed before agreeing and everyone ordered something to eat, Youko ordering for both himself and Kurama. They then sat in a happier silence, eating and listening to the singers who decided to brave the stage after the four boys.
After half an hour and the ending of another singer Yusuke jumped to his feet, grasped Kuwabara’s collar and pulled him towards the stage.
“Yo guys, another song huh.” He greeted before he and Kuwabara fought over what song to sing and Yusuke won. Telling the band the last song they wanted to sing, the band started up the music. The upbeat tune had the crowed clapping along as Yusuke and Kuwabara bounced around the stage singing.
Hiei looked out through the crowd as the idiots sung and spotted Kurama and Youko watching them with amusement, still cuddled in a tight embrace.
“Tell me what you know, tell me what you’ve gone and done now!” Both ‘Idiots’ cried out, the crowd joining in before they continued singing alone.
Hiei sighed to calm his nerves and waited till the end of the song, which signalled his turn. He took another deep breath as Yusuke and Kuwabara got off the stage. They went and sat down with the others and everyone watched as the stage lights dimmed, the band had glanced off to the left. Hiei nodded to them to say he was ready.
Chapter 18
The light music of an all too familiar song drifted through the room and Kurama’s eyes grew wide as he recognized the song. Youko smiled slightly at Hiei’s choice as he took in Kurama’s reaction. The younger sat ridged in his lap, eyes trained on the stage. They widened slightly as a familiar voice drifted through the room in a low tone.
“Just One more moment, that's all that's needed. Like wounded soldiers, in need of healing.” Hiei sung in his deep voice as he stepped out onto the stage taking slow steps till he reached the centre of the platform. The group watched him with confusion, Youko and Yukina smiled slightly and Kurama looked on intrigued. “Time to be honest, this time I'm pleading. Please don't dwell on it, ‘cause I didn't mean it.”
The lights then turned on flooding the stage in light and Hiei looked directly into Kurama’s emerald eyes as he sung with all his heart.
“I can’t believe I said I'd lay our love on the ground, but it doesn't matter cause I've made it up forgive me now. Every day I spend away my souls inside out, gotta be some way that I can make it up, to you now, somehow. By now you’d know that.” As the chorus started the Jaganshi’s eyes slid shut afraid to see the expression of rejection cross Kurama’s face, but he didn’t stop singing. “I'd come for you, no one but you, yes I'd come for you, but only if you told me to. And I'd fight for you, I'd lie, it's true, give my life for you, you know I'd always come for you.” Hiei finished and he looked down as the beat continued.
Kurama watched him with wide eyes before he turned to regard Youko and Yukina. Youko was smiling happily, eyes on the stage and Yukina just reached out and held Kurama’s hand in a comforting grasp. As the words started again Kurama looked up to the stage.
“I was blindfolded, but now I'm seeing. My mind was closing, now I'm believing. I finally know just what it means to let someone in, to see the side of me that no one does or ever will.” Hiei made eye contact with Yukina as he finished the line and nodded before starting on the next one. As he sung Yukina dug into her pocket and pulled out the pouch. She then dropped the rings into her hand and waited for the words. “So if you're ever lost and find yourself all alone, I'd search forever just to bring you home. Here and now, this I vow.” Hiei stopped singing and dropped to one knee, the band held their instruments still and a silence fell over the bar.
Hiei’s eyes were boring into Kurama’s and only a nudge from Yukina drew the redheads eyes from his own. That was when the loud gasp rang through the room. Hiei watched anxiously as Yukina handed Kurama his ring. The teen looked shocked and his eyes shot to Hiei with confusion before noticing the look of anxiety in his eyes. Kurama then looked over at Youko who was also studying the ring he was given. Youko slid it on trying it for size before smiling at Kurama who slid his own on and nodded to Hiei. He was surprise by the amount of emotion that crossed the usually emotionless Jaganshi’s face before Hiei glanced behind him and stood back up. He nodded to the band before looking back out at his new mates with an ecstatic expression.
“By now you know that, I'd come for you, no one but you, yes I'd come for you, but only if you told me to. And I'd fight for you, I'd lie, it's true, give my life for you, you know I'd always come for you. You know I'd always come for you.” Hiei sung before his eyes slid shut and he continued singing. “No matter what gets in my way, as long as there's still life in me. No matter what, remember, you know I'll always come for you.” The lights on the stage dimmed down again and Kurama watched with silent tears as his love sung for him and Youko.
“Yes I'd come for you, no one but you, yes I'd come for you, but only if you told me to.” The lights flashed one more time before remaining on as the song drew to an end. “And I'd fight for you, I'd lie, it's true, give my life for you, you know I'd always come for you. No matter what gets in my way, as long as there's still life in me. No matter what, remember, you know I'll always come for you. I'd crawl across this world for you, do anything you want me to. No matter what, remember, you know I'll always come for you. You know I'll always come for you.”
Hiei sighed as the last beat played and the song drifted to a stop, he was then met with a loud cheering and looked up startled before he was tackled to the ground and drawn into a deep kiss. Startled his body tensed as his eyes grew wide before Kurama’s scent of roses drifted past his nose and he relaxed into the redheads hold.
When Kurama pulled away he helped Hiei to his feet and dragged him off the stage and over to their table forcing him to sit when he resisted. The Jaganshi growled at the looks Yusuke and Kuwabara were giving him before he sighed as Youko’s arm wrapped around him. With not enough chairs now, Kurama happily sat in Hiei’s lap and nuzzled into him with a content smile.
Hiei zoned out as he was forced to stay and listen as the group chatted about this and that, his eyes glazed over as he thought of all that had happened the past week. He lightly kissed Kurama on the head, smiling as the redhead buried his face deeper into his shirt. He then glanced at Youko who was smiling fondly at the both of them. The Kitsune reached out and grasped Hiei’s hand with his own before turning back to Yusuke who asked him a question.
The group stayed there for a few more hours, and finally decided to leave early morning. As they exited the building Yusuke lead the way to his car, Kuwabara and Yukina climbed into the back as Yusuke and Keiko climbed into the front. When Yusuke waited for the others to get in. Hiei just shook his head.
“We will walk.” He responded and Yusuke nodded, bidding them farewell and congratulations before he drove off.
Once alone Youko looked down at Hiei and the fire demon shifted nervously. Youko smiled before he pulled Hiei in for a light kiss. The Jaganshi immediately relaxed and leaned in slightly, conscious of a sleeping Kurama in his arms. When Youko pulled back Hiei sighed and the two started off down the street.
“Youko…” Hiei started but stopped when a clawed finger touched his lips.
“You do not need to say anything. You have no idea how happy you have made the both of us and I can imagine yourself.” Youko whispered and Hiei nodded. As they walked down the street and noticed the apartment they slowed down. “Will you be staying?” Youko asked and Hiei glanced up at the window before looking down at Kurama.
“I’m sorry Youko, I’m… I just need alittle more time.” Hiei responded and Youko looked down, if his ears hadn’t already been pinned Hiei could imagine that they would have drooped. “I will stay in the tree tonight.” He added on and Youko smiled slightly before Hiei handed Kurama over to him.
Youko then kissed Hiei lightly before carrying Kurama towards the apartment’s front door and quickly entering. Hiei scaled the tree and smiled as he got comfortable on the branch looking into his mate’s bedroom.
Youko unlocked the door with his claw, not bothering to fish out the keys and carefully took Kurama into their shared home. He shut the door with his foot and carried Kurama into their bedroom. He lightly laid the redhead on the bed, removing his shoes and pulling the covers over him, before he glanced out at Hiei with a smile.
Hiei watched with amusement as Youko removed the pins from his ears with a low whine, wiggling the appendages around to regain blood flow. He then smiled as the furry tail uncurled from around his waist and appeared to stretch out before swaying behind him in a content manner.
Youko then headed over to the window and slid it open, leaning on the window seal.
“Do you need anything love?” He asked in a low voice and Hiei shook his head before shooing the fox away.
“I am fine, you just go to sleep. I will see you in the morning.” He said lightly and Youko smiled before heading back inside, leaving the window open.
He climbed into bed beside Kurama, pulling the redhead into his arms before drifting off to sleep. Hiei smiled at them through the window before wrapping his cloak around himself and drifting off to sleep.
Chapter 19
Kurama woke up with a stretch before rolling over and opening his eyes. He whined when he found himself alone in the room. With an annoyed sigh he got up and ran his hand through his hair.
‘He better be here.’ Kurama groused in his mind as he stalked into the bathroom. When he re-entered the bedroom, the sound of laughter flittered from down the hallway and Kurama smiled at the two deep voices of his mates.
He quickly exited the room and walked down the hallway before finding the source of the laughter in the kitchen. Hiei had Youko pinned to the counter and the fox’s ears were perked as his tail swayed behind him mischievously, showing that the situation was not dangerous. Kurama knew immediately what was wrong. Youko had a spoon in his hand from the batter he had been stirring and some of the mix was spread across Hiei’s left cheek.
Youko grinned cheekily at Hiei as the Jaganshi playfully glared back. The Kurama cleared his throat stepping into the room and breaking the two from their stare.
“Good morning love.” Youko greeted with a smile and Kurama just shook his head.
“You should know better Youko.” Kurama scolded lightly as he took the spoon from the Kitsune’s hand. “Food is meant for cooking, serving and eating.” Kurama then turned to Hiei, took a hold of his chin with his free hand and licked the batter off the now red cheek. “Not for tormenting Hiei. Now both of you, out of my kitchen.” With that said Kurama turned to finish with the batter his mates were making for breakfast.
Youko nuzzled into Kurama’s cheek before leaving the room, a still blushing Hiei close behind. When they got comfortable in the loungeroom Hiei looked at Youko. The fox was looking out the window, his ears swivelling around every few seconds to listen in on Kurama to ensure the younger was alright. Hiei couldn’t resist, his hand shot out and his fingers gently caressed the soft twitching appendages on top of Youko’s head. The silver creature then leaned into the touch purring.
“They are so soft.” Hiei said softly before he pulled away and grinned at the fox. “Now Youko, I do believe you owe me an apology.” Hiei smirked and Youko smiled before leaning in and barely brushing Hiei’s lips with his own.
“Sorry.” The kitsune whispered against his lips before leaning flush against the smaller demon. His larger body forcing Hiei to lay against the couch, as Youko straddled his slim waist before licking at his lips. Hiei moaned lightly as Youko entered his mouth and nipped at his tongue before exploring.
The two stayed like that until the need for air forced their lips to part. Hiei smiled at the kitsune, who was now nuzzled into his neck, glancing to the doorway when he felt Kurama’s presence joined them in the room. Youko pulled back from Hiei’s neck, but kept his position straddling the smaller demons hips. His tail wagged against Hiei’s legs at the site of the food Kurama carried into the room. The redhead lay out breakfast before he lifted Hiei’s upper body and sat down, relaying the shorter in his lap. Youko leaned towards the food – without letting Hiei move from his position, pinned under the fox and lying in Kurama’s lap – and grabbed something for himself to start with. Kurama also got something for himself as well as something for Hiei. The three then ate in comfortable silence, both Youko and Kurama taking turns to feed the trapped Hiei aswell as themselves.
His feet landed lightly in the soft grass of the forest surrounding Genkai's temple. It had been six years since he was last in Ningenkai and he was feeling nervous about how Yukina will react to his return after so long an absence with little explanation.
After the Reikai tournament and the death of Shigure by Kurama's hand, He had finally told Yukina of their relation and the ice apparition had been ecstatic to finally have a chance to know him as her older brother regardless of his past. He had spent but two months in Ningenkai, staying in the tree in Kurama’s front lawn and on particularly cold nights, on the red-heads floor, refusing to share the elder’s bed or let him sleep on the floor.
Half-way into his third month back he was becoming unable to restrain his well hidden feelings and felt that he had to leave, before he acted on them and regretted it for the rest of his life. He had left the fox a note and then made haste to the temple where he bid his sister farewell and fled before she could question him or try to convince him to stay. He still remembered well, the look in her eyes and the words in the note he had left for his
best friend along with the small black tear-gem he had shed before fleeing. My feet reluctantly stepped, heading in the Temple's direction.
'Yukina first, and then the fox.'
He picked up the pace and slowed to a stop when he reached the forests edge, Yukina was out tending to a garden, he could smell that the fox had used his Yokai to grow the plants and guessed it was due to the old woman's absence. His hand unconsciously shifted to the hilt of his katana for comfort before he stepped out into the open. The young blue-haired woman's head shot up from the rosette's she was pruning to the dark figure who emerged from the confines of the forest and a massive grin spread across her face.
"Hiei!" She cried in her happy state before jumping to her feet and running towards me.
She had to stretch up to get her arms around my neck in a hug due to my height increase, I now stood slightly taller than Kurama.
"It has been too long brother, I am glad you have finally returned." She whispered as she tightened the hug.
"I am sorry Yukina, but I was unable to stay." He whispered to her and she nodded in understanding.
He sighed when he felt one of his sister’s precious gems fall onto his shoulder and drop to the soft grass beneath them. He pulled back and wiped the next tear before it had a chance to solidify into another rich jewel.
"No tears please sister, I'm here now, I will not leave again. I still may not be able to face my problem but I will not run from it any longer. I promise." He said brushing his thumb along her cheek in a comforting manner.
"Not that I'm complaining brother, but why have you returned now, after so long, why did you leave?" Yukina asked and she was surprised when Hiei averted his gaze with the faintest hint of a blush across his cheeks.
"It does not matter why I left, what matters now is that I have returned. I will have to deal with my problem, but I’m here to stay." Yukina looked at him with sympathetic eyes but he couldn't hold her gaze.
‘She shouldn’t feel sorry for me’
Yukina sighed before she backed away from him and returned to the garden. An awkward silence passed between them before Hiei’s eyes focused on the plants Yukina had continued tending to. He crouched down so he was beside her and gestured to the flowers.
"When?" Was all he asked and Yukina gave a soft smile.
"Just two months after you left. Kuwabara has been keeping me company." She laughed lightly at the growl that left Hiei’s throat. "Please brother, you need to trust that he will look after me, specially seems we are a couple now.” Her eyes saddened as she held out her hand for him to see and his eyes widened at the sight of the ring on her finger.
"You’re engaged?" He yelped in shock and Yukina shook her head.
"Married actually, the wedding was three years ago, Yusuke and Keiko have also gotten married, a few months before me and Kuwabara." He looked at her in shock but she just looked to the ground with saddened eyes. "Brother you have missed so much... I do hope you will be here from now on though." She whispered as she rested her hand against her stomach with a small smile.
He noted the action with barely restrained anger but also slight pride, reluctantly he lifted his hand towards her stomach but shrunk back before touching her, afraid of hurting her. Yukina grabbed my hand and rested it against her stomach with a sigh. Hiei was in awe that his niece or nephew was growing in her stomach.
"How long?" He asked as he rubbed her taught skin lightly, feeling how her soft stomach was expanding for the life growing inside.
"The doctor Kurama brought over from the Makai said I am in my Second Trimester, the hard part is over, still a while to go through." She explained and my expression softened.
"I promise you both I'll be here." He whispered leaning closer to her stomach to rest his ear against her, Yukina giggled at his curious action.
"Little one, this is your uncle, Hiei. He's going to spoil you rotten, and teach you how to protect yourself, and your parents as well as your future mate." He whispered and jolted when he felt a kick against my hand. He looked at Yukina with surprise and she smiled.
"She loves you already." She spoke lightly and his expression softened even more.
For hours they sat in the garden catching up and before he knew it the sun was setting.
"Brother, please stay tonight. Kuwabara is away tending to a problem with Yusuke and it is lonely here at night now that Genkai has passed on." She explained and Hiei nodded before helping his sister too her feet.
He led her into the temple and made her a light meal to eat, not hungry himself, before leading her to her room.
"I'll just be in the main area." He smiled as he tucked her in and kissed her fore-head.
"We will have breakfast in the morning before you set off to what it is you do all day." She said firmly and he nodded before wishing her sweet dreams and escaping to the main room where he got comfortable on the bamboo couch in the corner of the large room.
Sleep easily took him and he dreamed one of the few dreams he had been having ever since the night he left the Ningenkai six years ago. He dreamed about Kurama, his fox.
Chapter 2
Morning came with harsh rays of sunshine and the smell of his sisters cooking. Hiei headed to the bathroom for a quick wash-up before he joined Yukina in the kitchen just as she set the table for breakfast. They ate in comfortable silence and once finished Hiei offered to clean whilst Yukina went to freshen up for the day. He cleared the table, washed the dishes and put everything away, storing the last plate as his sister re-entered the room in her icy blue kimono.
"I assume you will be going now brother?" She asked with a smile and he nodded before pulling her into a hug.
"I will return Yukina, if you need me just call out..." He touched the ward on his forehead as he pulled away from her. "I will always respond." His gentle voice made her smile and she nodded before ushering him from the temple.
"I have cleaning to do, you go have fun wreaking havoc in Ningenkai." She joked laughing and Hiei smiled back.
"See you later." Then he flitted down the temple steps and quickly made his way across town, using the rooftops to avoid the humans below.
"It's your turn now fox." He whispered as he ran.
He skidded to a stop on the roof of the house beside Kurama's with a confused expression. The tree in their front yard no longer had that one sturdy branch that reached right to Kurama's window. He flitted the last few meters and sat on the window ceil of what was once Kurama’s room before looking in through the locked window. He was shocked to see the room devoid of living quarters, from what he could see it had been reverted into a study room, he ducked to the side when the door opened and a teenager, not his fox, walked into the room and sat at the computer with his juice box.
"Shuuichi, are you doing your homework?" A feminine voice that Hiei recognized called from down stairs and the boy just grunted.
"Yeah mum." He muttered before he pulled out a book from the desk draw and started writing. “Stupid perfect son with perfect grades.”
Confused but knowing Shiori was still here, Hiei dropped down and crossed the lawn to the front door. He cleared his throat nervously before knocking on the wooden door.
"Just a minute!" He heard Shiori call out and he shuffled his feet whilst waiting, dully remembering to shelter his katana under his cloak.
'It would do no good to scare the woman.'
The door opened and Hiei immediately recognized her as Kurama’s human mother.
"Good morning young man, is there something I can do for you?" She asked in a cheerful voice and Hiei nodded.
"Hello Shiori, you may not remember me but I'm..." Hiei paused wondering how to refer to his fox.
'She probably doesn't know yet, best to use his human name.'
"I'm Shuuichi's friend. Do you know where he is? I noticed his room is now a study room." He said somewhat nervously, hoping she wouldn't be mad at him for peaking.
"Ohh dear..." She looked behind her with worry before leaning closer to Hiei and speaking in a hushed whisper. "Are you one of his special friends?" She asked and Hiei looked confused before he nodded. "In that case, Kurama moved out."
Two things stunned Hiei still, Kurama’s HUMAN mother had just referred to him by his demonic name and the fox had moved out.
"He fell into a severe depression after his best friend, Hiei took off and then old Genkai passed away and he couldn't take it anymore. He broke down and told me everything, and I mean everything. Just a few months after telling me, he moved out. I still can't believe it.... He has been living in his own apartment for five years and six months now." Her saddened voice made Hiei feel depressed.
'The fox’s leaving is my fault, I’ve had driven the fox from his mother and his comfortable home...'
"Please Shiori, where can I find him." Hiei asked desperately and the woman eyed him for a moment.
"I will tell you if you promise me one thing Hiei." She said on a stern motherly voice and Hiei gulped.
'She knows I’m the one...'
He nodded reluctantly and was surprised when he was pulled into a tight hug.
"Promise me you won't leave him again. The poor boy was lost without you, it broke his heart." She whispered and at the sound of his mother figure, speaking in such a broken voice because of him caused him to shed a tear before he could stop himself.
Shiori caught the small black tear-gem and looked at it in surprise. Hiei stared at it with a deep sadness.
"This is the first tear I have shed since I left Ningenkai six years ago." He whispered before shaking his head and turning away. "Your request will be granted, I have no intention of fleeing again." He responded to her earlier words and she stepped out onto the veranda as he started to leave.
"You love my son don't you?" She asked and when Hiei froze she knew the answer. "That is why you left those years ago?" The sigh answered her again and she held out the tear-gem for him to take.
Hiei turned around and pushed the gem back towards her.
"The Hiruseki Stone, formed from the tears of a Koorime, are priceless to the one who sheds it. It can easily fetch more than a thousand when sold to the right person. Use this tear-gem as you see fit, call it an apology for the pain I have unknowingly caused your son." He whispered before he flittered off.
Shiori watched him go with shock before she smiled slightly. She headed back into the house and went straight to her room. She hooked the black tear-gem onto a small piece of rope and hung the jewel over a photo frame on her bedside table. It was no secret that her son was photo-shy, she only had one good photo of her son and it was of him and Hiei.
The photo had sat framed on her bedside table since before Hiei's disappearance. She smiled as the tear-gem hung between the two boys, Kurama had pulled Hiei into a playful hug just as Keiko ran out with a camera and she caught them both off guard. The woman looked out her window with sad eyes.
"Good luck Hiei, I hope you can realize soon that my son feels the same way you do and admit your feelings to him, before it’s too late." She sighed at a knock on her bedroom door.
"Mum I'm finished my homework." Shuuichi called out and Shiori stood from her bed.
"Alright dear, you go and play your new game and I'll make us some lunch." She smiled as she looked at him through her now open bedroom door.
The teen nodded before mother and sun split to two separate ends of their large house.
Chapter 3
Hiei slowed down once he entered the park not far from Kurama's old home. He realized he had no clue where the fox’s new abode was. Sighing, he leapt into a high tree so he wouldn't be noticed and he untied the ward on his Jagan. Opening the purple eye, he scanned the area for his fox’s unique Ki and he quickly located him, not far from his current position. He recovered his Jagan, masking his Ki before he flittered off, arriving before a large building which was made up of many apartments.
'He went from that beautiful home to this dump, why didn't he use the gem I left him to at least get himself a proper home?’
He asked himself before he noticed a large oak that stretched high beside the building, one of it’s branches reached out to a window seven floors up. And he couldn't help but smile,
'That's no coincidence.'
He used the lower branches and his speed to scale the tree till he sat on the one sturdy branch that leaned out to the open window. He could hear the unmistakable beat of Nickelback's 'If Today Was Your Last Day' blaring from the stereo Hiei had convinced the redhead to buy.
"Against the grain should be a way of life, What's worth the prize is always worth the fight, Every second counts 'cause there's no second try, So live like you'll never live it twice, Don't take the free ride in your own life." The fox’s voice drifted through the window as he sang along to the song. Hiei smiled as he watched Kurama singing as he cleaned the house.
'It must be a Monday. That fox is always cleaning on Mondays.'
Hiei dully noted as he relaxed onto the branch and smiled as he watched the fox and listened to his CD. Four songs had passed and the fox had drifted down the hallway, the sound to the running water suggested that he was cleaning the bathroom. The soft tune of a song Hiei didn't recognized drifted towards him and he wondered if it had always been on his CD. He was shocked when he heard a yelp from the fox who stumbled into the room racing towards the CD player.
~Just one more moment
That’s all that’s needed~
The song barely got two lines out before the fox smacked his hand against the next button with a hurried movement. He glared at the offending machine like it had done something wrong before stalking off while 'Follow You Home' blared to life. Hiei watched his retreating form confused, before he shifted slightly and continued to listen to the music. Mid-day had come and gone when Kurama re-entered his room and dropped onto his bed. The music had stopped a while ago and Hiei smiled as Kurama huffed and rolled onto his back before looking over at his alarm clock.
"1:00, I should be heading out." He said to himself lightly with a smile before he got up and rummaged through his bedside table.
From what Hiei could see Kurama retracted his hand with a large crystal that was attached to a rope. With the crystal in his hand, Kurama headed out of his room. Hiei heard Kurama shuffling around for a few minutes before he heard the front door close and lock. Standing up from his spot in the tree, Hiei watched as Kurama exited the building in his kitsune form with the crystal around his neck and a piece of paper rolled up in his mouth. The kitsune ran across the lawn and trotted off down the street. Hiei shadowed him from the rooftops wondering what his fox was doing.
After five blocks and three street crosses, Kurama stopped out the front of a rundown building, with a rusty fence and overgrown lawn. He started yipping as he carefully made his way down the dirt path and up onto the shabby veranda. He scratched at the door before backing up and sitting down. Hiei stayed on a building across the street watching.
“Kurama!” A group of yells came from the rundown building as five children burst through the door and showered his fox with affectionate hugs and pats.
Hiei was surprised and confused all at the same time. He noticed when a tall blond woman appeared at the door and knelt down before Kurama. The kids backed off as she lightly patted his head.
“Good afternoon Kurama.” She greeted rubbing his ears and Kurama wagged his tail.
Kurama nudged into the ladies hand and passed her the note he held in his mouth. She took it and unrolled it. Hiei, curious about the contents of the letter, was careful not to alert Kurama to his presence as he used his Jagan to read what was written on the note.
‘Dear Mai,
My partner and I have managed to gather another crystal for you and the kids. I do hope that you can use it to feed the little ones this fortnight, and perhaps even do some repairs on the shelter. This crystal is bigger than the last one so it should go further. Kurama will be with the kids all day today so you need not worry about their safety, he will take good care of them. We will gather you some more funds next fortnight and hope to finalize our Ryou soon.
Signed Shuuichi and Youko.’
“I see.” Mai spoke and Kurama shook his head so the rope loosened before grabbing it with his teeth and passing the crystal over to Mai, the woman looked shocked. “This one is much larger than the last one. I will be able to replace a lot of stuff with this.” She smiled down at Kurama and patted his head lightly. “Tell your masters they have my deepest gratitude Kurama. Without Shuuichi and Youko’s donations these poor children would have nowhere to go.”
Kurama nodded to her wagging his tail before he stepped off the porch and headed towards the street. The five kids following close behind him.
“Have a good day kids, while you’re out with Kurama I’ll do some food shopping so take your time.” She called out and they all nodded before Kurama led them down the pathway towards the park. Hiei continued to shadow Kurama and the kids from the rooftops on the other side of the road.
Kurama twitched his tails in annoyance as they walked, he hated them not being free but to appear normal he had to tie them together, at least while out in the open. The youngest child, a white haired boy named Ryou was sitting on his back as he walked down the street with the orphans.
‘We are doing well with our savings young one, it won't be long now.' Kurama sighed as he licked Ryou's small hand which was wrapped around his neck.
Hiei had heard the kitsune's thoughts and was confused.
'My gem could easily provide for the kid, what has the Kitsune done with the gem when he could have used it for Ryou?'
"Papa, how come you are never human around us?" Ryou whispered the same question he asked every time they were together and Kurama smiled.
'You should know Ryou, whilst we cannot afford to adopt you, I cannot be human around you. I promise when we are able too, you will see me in person and we will take you away from that place.'
Hiei was shocked when he noticed the kid nod in acceptance to Kurama's thoughts, not bothered by the fact the kid was referring to his fox as a father.
'Ryou, have you still got that jewel we gave you?' Kurama's soft voice asked and the young boy nodded, pulling Hiei's tear gem from under his shirt. ‘That's my boy. You’re keeping it safe for us.'
"I never take it off." The little boy responded before he slipped the jewel back under his shirt. Hiei sighed, he should have known that the kid had it, the way Kurama was acting with the young one.
Chapter 4
"Hey Kurama." The eldest in the group, Riley called out and Kurama yipped in response. "He's being bullied again..." She responded reluctantly and at Ryou's whimper Kurama snarled, he turned to look into the young boys emerald eyes and licked his face.
'Who has harmed you my boy?' He asked with a tenderness Hiei had only heard towards Kurama's human mother.
"It is nothing papa." Ryou responded and the second eldest, Riley’s brother Tesshin piped up.
"It's not nothing Ryou, show him your arm." The boy demanded and Ryou whimpered shaking his head.
Ignoring Ryou’s protests and persistent hand, Kurama nuzzled into the boys sleeve and looked at the ragged cloth tied around his arm, surrounded by bruises. Using his teeth, Kurama pulled on the knot and the ragged cloth fell to the ground revealing a deep gash in the child’s arm. Ryou whimpered as Kurama licked it lightly and the fox sighed.
‘It’s deep…’ He whined and Ryou nodded. ‘Who did this?’ He asked again and Ryou frantically shook his head refusing to say. ‘Fine, but you will tell me later, I will not allow this to happen.’ Kurama said sternly and Hiei sighed at the worry shadowing his fox’s words.
‘He really does care about the kid… I’ll have to take care of this bully.’ He huffed lightly as they continued down the street.
"Mr Kurama?” Taya, the second female child called out and Kurama yipped, looking up at her. “Can we hurry? We feel safer at the park and your poor tail must be hurting." She said worried as she gestured to the appendages that twitched in utter annoyance behind him.
Kurama nodded to her with a slight smile at the worry she showed. He hurried down the street and across the crossing making sure they all had a grip on his fur like a responsible adult holding their child’s hand. He then led them into the park. Hiei followed from the trees as Kurama led the kids deep through the bushes and into a small clearing. Then without a second thought Kurama used his Ki to grow the plants around them so they would have some privacy, knowing the kids would want to see Youko now that it was safe. Kurama sighed in relief once Ryou untied the bands. His now released tails waved around re-circulating their blood flow in a happy manner.
"Mr Kurama." The last child, a boy named Diego called from his left and the fox turned to him as they settled down. "Can we see Mr Youko, he said he would give us some roses for Miss Mai." he asked softly and Hiei watched stunned as his fox allowed his body to shift, till he sat cross-legged, ears twitching as his tail rested in his lap.
‘He showed himself to these human children… He has changed quite a bit since I was last here…’ Hiei sighed, he was so confused. ‘Why are they also referring to Kurama and Youko as two separate beings, the fox seems to be doing it as well, and Kurama wrote that he and Youko were partners…’ Shaking his head, Hiei watched as Youko reached into his hair and pulled out five seeds, feeding them his Ki, the seeds grew into five throned roses.
"Remember what I have told you about the roses." Youko cautioned handing the roses over to the children, who each took one in their hands.
"Every rose has it’s thorns, handle them with caution and care." Tesshin on his right filled in and Youko nodded before his gaze landed on Ryou. "Now Kit, I believe we have a matter to discuss.” He pointedly said, holding out his clawed hand and Ryou sighed.
"Yes father..." He reluctantly reached out and laid his arm in Youko's grasp. Youko quickly examined the arm, moving the sleeve out of the way before he hissed. A large gash was deep in his skin and his upper arm was bruised. The other kids all gathered around and watched as Youko tenderly pressured the wound.
"Can you fix it Mr Youko?" The little girl who requested his presence asked and Youko frowned.
"I believe I can help but I cannot fully heal the wound." He responded as he pulled three seeds from his hair. Feeding them his Yokai the seeds grew into Rosemary, Lavender and Aloe Vera. The kids watched in fascination as Youko placed the rosemary and Lavender into his mouth, chewing whilst he used his claw to split the Aloe Vera leaf. He dripped some of the plants sap into Ryou's wound holding tight as the young boy flinched. He then leaned over and squeezed the juice from the Rosemary and Lavender into the wound before removing the mush and spreading it over Ryou’s arm. The kids all Ewe'd but Youko ignored them.
"Taya, can you please go grab me a decent leaf and a couple vines?" He asked and the young girl jumped up, nodding happily before she ran off. Youko turned back to Ryou. "How does it feel?" He asked and Ryou just smiled slightly.
"I will be fine Father." He smiled before lightly pulling on one of the Youko's long silver forelocks.
Youko smiled at him just as Taya returned. "Thank you." Youko bowed slightly before feeding his Ki into the dried leaf, now damp he wrapped the leaf around the wound and willed the vines to hold fast around the leaf, securing it in place. "It should heal fairly quickly now and won't get infected." Youko assured before he looked around at the other four children. “Are any of you hurt at all?” When they all shook their heads he sighed before he lay down in the grass, the five children gathered around him and he smiled when Riley requested a story. Hiei relaxed into the tree as Youko told the kids the story of one of his Heists as a bandit. Sleep eventually took over the group except for Youko, Ryou and Hiei.
"Kit... Are you happy?" He asked the young one and Ryou looked at him confused.
"Miss Mai is kind to us, I do not mind the orphanage." He responded and Youko shook his head.
"Kurama really loves you and he is serious about adopting you when we can afford it." Youko explained before he looked down at Ryou with sad eyes. "We both lost a dear friend to us a while back, I have not seen Kurama so happy since he left the both of us. You bring Kurama that happiness, and you fill the void for myself. I wish for you to tell me now if you do not wish to be our son. I couldn't bear loosing another loved one, and I know a Kurama will not be able to handle his heart broken a second time."
"I..." Ryou didn't know what to say and Youko sighed.
"I'm sorry kit, you are too young for such a burden... Maybe another family will grow to love you as we have and ad..." Before Youko's sentence could finish Ryou tackled into him hugging him tightly.
"I cannot imagine why that idiot left you both, specially seems you love him so... But I promise Father, I will do my best for you and Papa, I won't let you down." He nuzzled into Youko's neck and the fox smiled.
"Thankyou Ryou. Now rest, it won't be long till I have to escort you back to the orphanage." Youko stroked his clawed fingers through Ryou's hair in a soothing manner as the two followed the other kids into a light sleep. Hiei noticing they were asleep, took his leave. He was confused by all he heard and needed time to think it over before he talked to the fox. He flitted off in the direction of the temple.
The sun was setting when Youko stirred. He sighed as he shook the kids awake. "Young ones it is time to leave." He whispered to their sleepy selves before he held out the band for Kurama's tails and allowed the red-head control. Ryou quickly but lightly tied the bands around Kurama's tails and he whined at the restricting feeling. Before he ushered the group to follow him out of the park and towards the orphanage.
As usual Mai was waiting for them on the front step, she smiled as Kurama walked the kids to the run-down orphanages gate. The five bid Kurama farewell before heading up to their caretaker. Ryou lingered by Kurama.
"Do not worry Papa, I will be with you and Father soon." He whispered as he kissed Kurama on the muzzle before heading through the gate and up the steps to Mai. The older woman immediately noticed the wrap around Ryou's wound and looked out to the fox who bowed to her before running off. Mai smiled before ushered everyone inside for dinner.
Kurama not bothering to take the stairs or use the door, scaled the tree and leapt into his room shifting to his human form with a sigh. Not hungry and very tired he laid down on his bed staring at the ceiling.
"Youko, please come out." Kurama whispered and the Kitsune appeared lying on the bed by him, his body was transparent though and Kurama sighed. "How I wish you were solid already..." The red head sighed as Youko's transparent hand brushed his cheek making Kurama shiver. "Youko, do you think Hiei will ever return to us?" Kurama asked a question that fell from his lips many times over the six years and Youko gave him the same answer he did every time.
"I don't know love." He responded and Kurama whined. "Get some sleep love, Yukina has requested our presence at the temple tomorrow." Youko whispered and Kurama nodded before he allowed sleep to take him, Youko smiled at his love and faded back into Kurama's mind.
Chapter 5
Hiei was jolted awake by a rock hitting him square in the forehead, he snarled as he shot to his feet, keeping his balance in the tree he had slept in. He looked down to see Yusuke, Kuwabara and Yukina scolding them both.
"Hn."
He dropped down beside them with a board expression and the two boys just stared at him with blank looks on their faces. A minute passed before Yusuke leapt at him and took him in a choke hold while Kuwabara laughed.
"Long time no see shorty, yet you’re not so short no more."
"Kuwa, I wouldn't doubt that he is taller than Kurama now, he’s only a little shorter then you. Awe man." He said releasing Hiei, before whining "Now I'm the shortest."
"I believe your forgetting my lovely Yukina Urameshi. She’s short and pretty, two things that trump you." Hiei watched as Yusuke chased Kuwabara into the temple for his statement before turning to Yukina.
“Morning sister.” He greeted hugging her lightly before looking off to the side. “Why have I been awakened?” He asked and Yukina smiled.
“It’s time for breakfast, come on.” She said lightly, tugging Hiei along by his hand.
Hiei followed her obediently as she led him into the kitchen before he left her side to sit at the table, Ignoring Kuwabara and Yusuke who were fighting in the chairs beside him.
“Brother?” Yukina’s voice came from the kitchen and Hiei grunted to state he had heard her before she continued. “Have you seen Kurama and Youko yet?” She asked lightly and Hiei was surprised when the idiots beside him stopped fighting and looked at him intently.
“No…” Hiei lied before he looked at his hands. “May I ask why you are referring to Kurama and Youko as two separate people?”
Yukina walked out of the kitchen and sat the food she had preparing down on the table for the three boys. They all started eating in silence until Yusuke spoke.
“You’ve missed a lot in your absence Hiei, Kurama and Youko are two separate people.” He spoke around the food in his mouth.
“I know that!” Hiei spoke frustrated. “I know Youko and Kurama are not the same, but why are you talking about them as if they are two separate beings?” Kuwabara and Yusuke looked at the frustrated fire demon with confusion before Yukina spoke, getting what her brother meant.
“Youko, whilst not complete, has his own body.” She explained and Hiei looked at her stunned.
“What do you mean?” Hiei asked confused and Yukina looked at him with a smile.
“You will see, Kurama and Youko will be here soon.” With that said the table fell into silence as everyone ate. Hiei frowned as he picked at his food.
‘I’m still not ready to face him.’
“Love…” His partner’s deep voice rung in his ears but he just rolled over and ignored the kitsune. “Koi, we need to get going.” The voice came again and Kurama waved him off before pulling the pillow over his head.
Youko sighed watching his partner with happy eyes.
“If you don’t move, then I get control.” He whispered in the red-heads ear, blowing lightly.
Kurama moaned before glaring up at Youko’s transparent form.
“Take control, I want more sleep.” He whispered before closing his eyes again and Youko nodded quickly retreating into their body.
He shifted into the fox form and stretched all four legs before glaring at the bands around his four tails.
‘I hate that.’ He growled and Kurama’s sleepy voice laughed at him from their mind. ‘Shut up and get some sleep.’ He barked affectionately before making his way through the window. He climbed down the tree and headed off in the direction of Genkai’s temple.
After breakfast Yukina had asked Kuwabara and Yusuke to head into town and get her a few things from the shops, and after they left she told Hiei he was free to do as he wish as she worked around the house. To work off some tension and confusion Hiei headed outside. Unsheathing his Katana, he began moving at a fast hard pace, quickly working into a sweat, he discarded his shirt by his cloak and continued sparing.
This was how Youko found him when he skidded to a stop on the forest edge. He was hit with the Jaganshi’s Ki a few minutes back and made haste to the temple with enthusiasm. His tails which he had released once entering the forest wavered behind him in excitement.
Sensing he wasn’t alone, Hiei stopped on a downward stroke and glanced around with his senses piked. His eyes fell on the fox at the edge of the forest not twenty meters from him and his eyes widened. Youko regarded him with confused eyes at his shocked reaction and took a step forward, whining when Hiei took a step back.
‘I’m not ready.’ The Jaganshi repeated in his head before he flittered off into the thicket of trees to his left. Not even bothering to retrieve his shirt or cloak.
Youko watched him go with sad eyes before he trotted out, retrieving the fire demons discarded clothes and headed into the temple. He made his way into the main room where Yukina sat drinking tea. With a whimper he placed Hiei’s clothes on the table before shifting. He tucked his tail in his lap, ears drooped.
Yukina looked up at him, a sad expression taking over her face at the sight of her brothers clothes.
“Do not worry Youko, he’s just not ready yet.” Yukina reassured and the fox sighed before nodding and putting a clawed hand to his forehead.
“Kurama, love. We’re here, come on out.” He whispered and Yukina smiled as his silver hair bleed red and the narrowed golden eyes shined bright green.
The red-head stretched before smiling at Yukina.
“Good morning Yukina.” He greeted before he noticed Hiei’s clothes and he looked around franticly for the short demon.
“Love, he ran from me when we got here.” Youko explained appearing in his transparent form.
Kurama looked up at Yukina for confirmation and at her nod he sighed.
“Why, does he not wish to see us again?” Kurama asked in confusion looking up at Youko for comfort.
“Love, I believe he is afraid, He did just up and leave. Maybe he is unsure how we will react to his sudden return.” Youko explained and Kurama nodded.
“You’re probably right…” He said in a defeated voice and Yukina looked at her tea unable to meet her depressed friend’s eyes and the table fell into a deep silence.
Chapter 6
Hiei stopped in the branches of the dead tree out the front of the orphanage. He could hear splashing and kids laughter and couldn’t help but smile. Flittering to the roof and looking into the small backyard and noticed a decent sized blow up pool among the dead leaves and grass. The kids were all splashing around in the shallow water except Ryou who sat on a fallen log off to the side.
‘Kid.’ Hiei called out and he noticed Ryou look around confused. ‘On the roof.’
Ryou’s eyes immediately shot straight to Hiei and the demon couldn’t help but compare the bright green eyes to Kurama shining emeralds.
‘Who are you?’ Ryou questioned with a guarded expression.
‘The idiot friend of Kurama.’ Hiei replied remembering the kid’s words the previous afternoon with Youko.
‘You’re the one that abandoned Papa and Father. Go away!” Hiei flinched at Ryou’s response before he looked down at the tiles with remorse.
‘Please Ryou… I just want to talk.’ Hiei almost begged and Ryou huffed.
‘Give me one good reason why I should trust you, and don’t lie to me. I’ll know.’ Ryou responded and Hiei had to admire the little guy, Kurama and Youko had taught him well before he thought about the kids words.
‘You have no reason to trust me.’ He whispered… ‘But know I would never harm you, I… I love Kurama and…’ He sighed before turning and going to leave but Ryou stopped him.
“Alright, give me a minute and I will meet you out the front.” Ryou called out before getting up and heading inside.
Hiei stood stunned for a few minutes before he heard the front door open and he saw Ryou run out before turning to look up at him. He then walked out to the path and beckoned with his good arm for Hiei to follow him. The Jaganshi jumped down from the roof and joined Ryou on the foot path and the two fell into step beside each other.
“Now tell me, why did you leave? No lying alright.” Hiei nodded, before looking down at the young one.
“I’ll answer any questions you have for me, as long as you answer mine.” He bargained and Ryou seemed to think it over before nodding in agreeance.
“I left… I left because my feelings for Kurama are not right… I cannot feel this way about him and I know he will never share my feelings.” Hiei sighed out and Ryou looked at him confused.
“You left because you love Papa and you don’t believe that he could love you back?” He asked and Hiei nodded. “Well that’s silly, Papa does love you.” Ryou smiled and Hiei looked down at his feet.
“You misunderstand young one. I do not mean the love of a friend…” Hiei said and Ryou’s expression didn’t change. Hiei shook his head. “Nevermind, my turn.” He said before thinking of a question to ask Ryou.
“Yukina! Hiei!” Yusuke hollered as he walked back in through the door, he noticed Youko and Kurama sitting at the table and could no longer feel Hiei’s Ki on the temple grounds. “I see he fled again.” Yusuke growled with anger and Youko looked at him with sad eyes.
“Do not be angry with him, if he does not wish to see us, we will not force it. We may love him but there is a good chance he does not return feelings for one of us let alone both of us.” The Youko explained and Yusuke nodded to his words, putting the stuff Yukina wanted in the kitchen before he joined Yukina, Kurama and Youko at the table.
“Yusuke, where is my husband” Yukina asked and Yusuke looked at her before looking down.
“When we felt a jolt of Hiei’s demonic energy leave the temple and cross town at a high speed, Kuwabara took off after him.” Yusuke explained and Yukina nodded.
“Can we talk about something else please?” Kurama asked and his miserable tone spurred Yusuke to change the topic.
“Guys I have some good news about Youko’s body. Botan came around with a message from Koenma. Not sure why he didn’t tell you two though.” Yusuke muttered before continuing. “She said Koenma has figured out a way to make your body solid, permanently.”
Kurama and Youko looked at each other with large smiles before Kurama frowned. “What’s the catch, what do we have to do?” He asked and Yusuke grinned lopsidedly.
“If you can supply enough Ki to hold your solid figure long enough for the two of you to mate, the constant share of energy though your mating bonds will permanently sustain your solid body.” He explained and flinched when Youko growled.
“If I could hold a solid figure for that long don’t you think I would have done so already?!” He yelped out and Kurama bushed a deep crimson.
“I know you said off the subject but I brought this up for a reason.” Yusuke said softly and the two looked at him confused. “I could easily supply the energy for you but as you know I would need to be in the room and as much as I care for you both, I refuse.”
“We wouldn’t expect you to put yourself in that position Yusuke.” Youko said softly and just before Yusuke could respond, Yukina spoke up.
“But my brother could also supply enough Ki for you to stay in a solid body.” She said and Kurama looked up at her shocked before he realised she was right.
“That is true and with the aid of his Jagan, it will take little effort on his behalf. With… With the Jagan, can the Ki exchange be done at a distance?” Youko asked and Yusuke looked thoughtful.
“I wouldn’t know, you would have to ask Koenma.” Yusuke finished and Kurama shot to his feet, heading for the door.
“Love?” Youko asked and Kurama turned back with a smile.
“I’m heading off to spirit world, Youko…” Kurama stopped and Youko knew what he wanted, Youko quickly took over the body and Kurama appeared in a transparent skin. They then looked at each other in the eye.
“I will.” Youko said lightly and his partner smiled before sprinting out of the house. “I will also take my leave, I have a fire demon to track.” With that Youko’s form shifted to his kitsune form and he ran out of the house leaving Yukina and Yusuke to their own devices. Not five minutes later, Kuwabara ran into the house huffing.
“How did you go?” Yusuke asked and Kuwabara sighed.
“He knew I was tailing him, ditched me.” The ginger explained and Yukina smiled.
“Hopefully Youko can catch and talk to him.
Chapter 7
“How did you meet Kurama?” Hiei finally asked and Ryou stopped and looked up with a smile on his face.
“Can you keep a secret first?” Ryou asked and Hiei was surprise before he knelt down before Ryou and nodded. “I had snuck out that afternoon to see my boyfriend.” Ryou explained with a light blush and Hiei was shocked, the kid didn’t look any more than eight.
“Don’t look at me like that, I’m sixteen. Anyway it was four years ago. He and I were leaving the local arcade when we were thrown back by a streak of black, when we got back to our feet a streak of silver and red sprinted past us. Bakura suggested we go see what it was and we followed, in the distance we could see they entered the park and we ran to catch up.
When we got there what appeared to be a large bear was pinning a smaller fox to the ground and the two seemed to be talking. When the fox yelped I told Bakura to help him and he did. Kura is an Inu-demon. He shifted to his wolf form and easily knocked the bear off the fox and fought with it while I went to aid the fox.
The poor thing was bleeding all over but he seemed to be trying to get back up to fight the bear. I told him to lay still and Kura managed to knock the bear unconscious just as the fox managed to struggle to his feet. He staggered towards Kura and the bear and bit down into the bear’s throat, ripping out the flesh. Kura came back over to me and we both watched as the fox examined the wound it had made, before it dug into the bears neck and pulled back with a piece of rope. He yanked it free and both Kura and I looked at the Gem dangling on the end of the rope.
He then started to leave but fell unconscious. Kura carried the fox back to the abandoned building he lives in and I tended to the wounds as best I could as well as cleaned up the gem for him.
When he came too I wasn’t in the room and Kura was watching him, I ran back into the room to see the fox bristling and Kura in his humanoid form trying to calm him down. When the fox saw me he stopped and looked at me with confused eyes.” Ryou stopped for a minute, they were now in the park and he lead Hiei into the small clearing where he spent his time with Kurama and Youko and they both settled down on the grass.
Youko had just caught up to them and was surprised to see Ryou and Hiei together. He settled into the tree above them, making sure to keep his Ki masked. Ryou looked at Hiei as if asking if he should continue and the fire demon nodded.
“I smiled back at him and took the water I had left to fetch to him and helped him sit up so he could drink it. I was surprised when his body changed from the small fox to a tall Kitsune. Kura was not able to access his halfway form so I had never seen it before. He introduced himself as Youko and thanked us for our help. Kura asked him how he had gotten all his wounds and why he was after the bear, what the significance of the jewel was.
Father said for lack of better words. ‘It broke into our home, injured my partner, stole our precious treasure, and fled. I could not allow it to keep its life.’ When he attempted to leave we told him to stay till he had his strength and he accepted the help. Over the few days that he recovered, he learned about mine and Bakura’s lives and before he left on the fifth day, he gave me the jewel and told me to keep it with me.” Ryou’s hand slipped under his shirt pulling out the black jewel. “I never take it off.”
Hiei nodded when Ryou finished before he looked down at his hand.
“My question now?” Ryou asked and Hiei nodded. “If you love Papa so, how come you say you two can’t be together? Why would loving Papa be wrong? Father loves Papa, is that wrong?” Ignoring the fact that the teen had just asked three questions Hiei answered him anyway.
“Ryou you’re... Papa, is a precious creature and I value his respect and friendship with my life. I am a tainted creature, my life has just been one large failure and I wouldn’t taint his light by telling him of my love. He would never feel the way I do and I would never expect him too. That is what I mean by it is wrong... I can tell you now that the love you’re... Papa and Father share is not wrong, just like your love for Bakura. Never doubt that young one. I’m just… Never meant to love or be loved.” Hiei sighed and he jumped when he felt Ryou’s hand wrap around his arm.
“You really are an Idiot.” The teen chuckled and Hiei smiled softly.
“He’s right you know, you really are stupid if you believe that.” Hiei froze though when Youko’s voice reached his ears. Youko had dropped down from the trees and approached them with slow steps.
“Father!” Ryou yelped jumping to his feet, he ran into the Kitsune’s arms and Youko embraced him with a light smile.
“Young one, you should not let anyone lure you to such a secluded place, no matter what they say.” He said brushing a white forelock behind a pale ear. He smiled lightly at the offended look that crossed Hiei’s face. “You’re just lucky that Hiei is a good friend.”
“I know Father, but you always told me that ‘If you believe someone is being completely honest with you that you should give them a chance.’ right?” He asked looking up into Youko’s golden eyes.
“I suppose, it seems you do listen to me.” Youko chuckled before glancing over at Hiei, he noticed the fire demon slowly inching away from them. “We need to talk, don’t you dare flee again.” He snarled and Hiei averted his gaze but stopped his movement. “But first things first. Kit, who is Bakura.” Youko asked in a stern voice and Ryou looked down at his shuffling feet.
“He’s my...” Ryou started but stopped and sighed before taking a deep breath and looking Youko directly in the eyes. “He is my boyfriend, of six months before I first met you in the park. He is an Inu demon, the same wolf that knocked that bear unconscious.” Youko threaded his clawed figures through Ryou’s hair with a happy smile.
“Thank you for being completely honest with me Kit. As I recall, Bakura is sheltering in an abandoned building. I would prefer him to be with us, safe.” Youko whispered and Ryou looked shocked. “You know our fund issue at the moment, but it won’t be long till Papa and I will have enough. You will both come live with us.” He said and wiped the tears from Ryou’s eyes.
“Thank you so much Father!” Ryou cried out and Youko chuckled hugging him. “Thank you so much! If it’s alright with you Father I want you there when I tell him the good news, and I can introduce you and Papa to him officially.”
“You’re welcome my kit, and of cause I’ll be there. Now go play in the park while I have a talk with Hiei, then I’ll take you home.” Youko smiled as Ryou scrambled to his feet and ran to play. Youko twitched his tail in a happy manner before he turned his golden eyes back to Hiei.
Hiei was frozen in place by the vicious look that crossed Youko’s eyes and the snarl lifting his lip and crinkling his nose. For the first time in a long time, the fire demon was scared of his best friend’s alter-ego.
Chapter 8
“Youko…” Hiei whispered confused and he yelped as he hit the ground with the larger Kitsune’s hands against his throat.
“You’re fucking tainted!” The kitsune snarled and Hiei flinched.
‘I knew he would react like this, it’s too late to take it back.’ He turned his head and closed his eyes to stop himself from crying but a sharp smack across the cheek made him meet the cold golden eyes once again.
“Pay attention!” Youko yelled at him before he bared his fangs in anger, growling again. “The least you could have done was come up with a better fucking excuse! You think that your past matters to us?” He snarled gripping Hiei’s shirt collar as he pulled him closer to his face. “You think we care that you an outcast? That you’ve killed before? That your ‘The forbidden child?’ Big fucking deal you son of a bitch!” Youko slammed Hiei back against the ground and the Jaganshi just took it allowing the Youko to release his anger.
Hiei was surprised when Youko released his shirt and sat down on the grass with a deep sigh, attempting to calm himself.
“How dare you leave Kurama the way you did, do you have any idea how much you hurt him. How much pain he went through?” Youko asked, breaking the silence they had fallen into.
Hiei was again surprised when he looked up at Youko. The Kitsune had his eyes clenched tightly shut and a few tears that he was trying to hold back, leaked from his eyes. “He would cry himself to sleep every night and I couldn’t comfort him, because I can’t hold a solid body. My poor kit, I couldn’t do anything to help but talk to him. And all because of your stupid pride.” Youko sighed and Hiei looked at him with sad eyes.
“It wasn’t my pride… I’d give up that if it meant that Kurama would be happy. I left because I don’t want to hurt him…” Hiei whispered and he flinched when Youko snarled again.
“But you did! More than you will ever know and more then he shows…” Youko’s voice lowered as he finished before he stood and turned to leave. He stopped before he looked down at Hiei.
“You best take a good look at yourself Hiei, you make sure those words you spoke are true. Kurama cannot take another betrayal and if you so much as make him shed one more tear. My feelings for you aside, I will never forgive you.” With that Youko flattened his ears so they were nestled amongst his hair, he wrapped his tail around his waist till he looked almost human and he stepped out of the clearing to go find Ryou.
Hiei watched him go with confusion.
‘Did he just admit to having feelings for me?’ Hiei questioned his ears before shaking his head. ‘He must have meant our friendship.’ Hiei then thought about the Youko’s other words. ‘Do I really mean it when I say I love Kurama?’ He asked himself as he lay in the grass where Youko had left him.
“Ryou.” Youko called out as he approached the swing set where Ryou was swinging. “It’s time to go.” He said and Ryou got off the swing to stand by his side.
“Is Mr Hiei coming with us?” Ryou asked hopeful and Youko shook his head.
“He needs some time to himself little one.” Youko told him before he led the way out through the park gates.
“He really does love Papa Father. I can see it in his eyes but he has himself convinced that Papa could never love him back because of his past.” Ryou spoke and Youko silently listened before they fell into silence. “Father?” Ryou called his attention and Youko looked at him with a smile so Ryou continued. “Do you and Papa love Mr Hiei, like how you love eachother?”
Youko was shocked by the question but he sighed before looking towards the sky. “Kit, I love them both with all my heart, just as I know your Papa does but you must understand. Hiei does not care for me in that sense. His feelings are only for your Papa.” Youko tried to explain and the teen looked at him confused.
“But why doesn’t he care about you?” Ryou sounded hurt and Youko couldn’t understand why Hiei not loving him upset the young boy.
“Ryou, he does care about me, just not in the way he cares for Papa and the way you care for Bakura.” Youko explained and Ryou still looked sad but before he could say something else Youko stopped and knelt down by him.
“No more about Hiei young one. You run off inside now alright, Papa and I will see you next week.” Youko said before pulling Ryou into a hug.
“Ok Father, goodbye.” Ryou whispered before he pulled out of the embrace and ran into the orphanage. Youko watched him go before making his way back to the temple to await Kurama’s return from spirit world.
Hiei wasn’t sure how many hours he had lay in the grass thinking about his situation with Kurama when he finally sat up. He went to leave the park to head back to the temple when he remembered something. ‘The bully, I completely forgot.’ He thought before he got up and flittered towards the orphanage, he stood in the same dead tree he had occupied earlier and looked over the house.
‘Ryou!’ He called out in his mind and he smiled as the door opened to reveal the teen.
“Mr Hiei, why have you come back?” Ryou asked confused and Hiei smiled.
“It’s my turn to ask a question.” He said and a big grin crossed Ryou’s face.
“Yes it is.” The teen nodded before he climbed up the tree to sit on the branch beside Hiei. “But we must stay here, Miss Mai wouldn’t be happy if I went out again.” He explained and Hiei nodded.
“You may not wish to answer me Ryou but please try too.” Hiei started and Ryou looked at him nervously before nodding. “Who did this?” The fire demon asked gesturing to Ryou’s wrapped arm. Ryou sighed with relief as he answered.
“Father of cause, he is great with plant remedies.” Ryou brushed his fingers along the leaf wrap on his arm with a smile.
“No Ryou, I mean who hurt you. Why did Youko have to heal you?” Hiei reworded his question and Ryou looked down at his hands before he looked up at Hiei with determined eyes.
“If I tell you are you going to leave and do something about him?” He asked in a hard voice and Hiei was shocked by his tone.
“If it means your protection, I will take care of him.” Hiei growled in a protective voice and Ryou nodded as if he already knew the answer.
“Before I tell you, you have to promise to answer me one more question before you leave.” Ryou bargained and Hiei reluctantly nodded.
“You have my word.” He whispered and Ryou nodded trusting his words before he shifted nervously. After a few minutes silence, Ryou finally spoke.
“His name is Zoku… He…” Ryou stopped and sighed. Hiei rubbed his back gently and Ryou gave him a grateful smile before he finished. “He has been bullying me ever since Bakura asked me out. Zoku likes Bakura and blames me for them not being together.” Hiei growled at the teens words and he went to take off before the small hand on his arm pulled him back.
Hiei looked down at Ryou who was looking at him expectantly. Then Hiei remembered the last question he had to answer. He settled back and looked at Ryou with a nod and the teen took a deep breath.
“Why don’t you love Father the way you love Papa.” Ryou’s stern voice and words shocked Hiei and his eyes widened as he took in the words.
“I…” He was at a loss for words, before he told Ryou exactly how he felt. “To be completely honest with you Kid, I’ve never thought of Kurama and Youko as two separate beings until today and my talk with you. I love Kurama as a whole, demon side and all. So I guess that means that I feel the same for your Father as I do your Papa.” Hiei thought out loud and he wasn’t sure if the grin on Ryou’s face could get any bigger. “Now inside with you, and do not go out into the streets for the next few days, I need some time to rest and think before I go and track down Zoku.” Hiei explained and before Ryou could thank him the fire demon was gone.
Chapter 9
Kurama quickly headed up the steps to the temple. His visit to spirit world had taken longer than expected and it was now mid-afternoon the next day. He stopped releasing a small smile when he saw Hiei resting in a tree on the outskirts of Genkai’s forest. He was going to approach the fire demon but stopped himself with a shake of his head before running into the temple.
Hiei opened his eyes and watched the ghostly figure of Kurama enter the open door of the temple.
‘So that’s what they meant, the spirit not in control can manifest his own body, it’s just not solid.’ Hiei longed to go after Kurama but he stayed where he was. He had woken up this morning to Yukina again and after slight influence on her side, he Youko and Yukina shared a tense breakfast, Hiei escaped the minute he could and returned to his tree to think. Falling back asleep after a short while. He looked over just as Kurama vanished inside and he focused on the house and the conversation going on inside.
“Youko! Yukina! I’m back!” The red-head called out and he smiled when he sensed them in the kitchen. He headed in and frowned, looking at his friend and partner. “Where are Yusuke and Kuwabara?” Youko turned to smile at him.
“They went home yesterday, Keiko needs their help with the shop today and tomorrow they are busy, I also hear that Shizuru has something she needs them to do as well so they won’t be free for a while yet.” Youko laughed in explanation before he walked over to Kurama. He held his hand to the youngers cheek, and sighed at not being able to touch him. “You must be tired love, we will switch so you can rest your energy.”
Kurama nodded before he returned to their shared body and took control. Youko then appeared beside the now solid red-head and smiled before he sat on the table.
“Youko I know you’re a ghost, but can you at least sit on the chair.” Yukina laughed as she placed a steaming cup of tea on the table for Kurama and sat down herself.
“Sorry Yukina.” The fox apologised with a laugh before he took the seat beside Kurama.
“Now Kurama, what were your findings. Did Koenma help any?” Yukina asked and Kurama nodded with a bright smile.
“Hiei doesn’t have to be in the room. Unlike Yusuke, Hiei’s power can be projected. He just has to be near, not with us.” Kurama explained and Hiei started from his tree.
‘Why are they talking about me and my power?’ He wondered and continued to listen.
“So your saying that if Hiei agrees to use his Jagan to lend us enough Ki for me to hold a solid form until our mating is complete, after we mark eachother my body will be permanently solid, feeding off the Ki shared through our mating bond?” Youko asked with excitement and Kurama nodded happily. Hiei was so shocked he almost fell out of the tree.
‘If I lend them my Ki, Youko can get his own body?’ Hiei was about to jump down and head into the temple when Kurama’s sigh reached his mind.
“Kurama what’s wrong? This is good news.” Yukina asked worried and Hiei could feel the misery coming from Kurama in waves, even from his spot outside.
“I should have thought this through. Hiei can’t stand to be in the same courtyard as me. Why would he even consider helping? He…” Kurama was cut off shocked by Hiei’s voice.
“I’ll do it, I’ll help you two.” Hiei said looking off to the side to avoid the tears that were building up in Kurama’s eyes. Hiei’s eyes met with Youko who was glaring at him and the fire demon smiled slightly.
‘You said I couldn’t make him cry from pain, you said nothing about happiness.’ Hiei smirked as Youko shook his head before he spoke up.
“Are you sure?” He asked and Hiei nodded.
“I will remain on the outskirts of this forest, and keep my Ki high enough that your body will stay solid for at least an hour.” With that said Hiei vanished and the three in the room felt the burst of energy that he released. Youko sighed as he rubbed his hands together, sighing at the feel of his own skin. Kurama looked at him with tears streaming down his cheeks, the red-head lifted his hand and brushed it against Youko’s skin as a smile broke across his face.
“You’re really here.” He whispered and Youko leaned into his touch.
“Yes love.” His soft voice responded and Kurama threw his arms around Youko’s neck with a cry of joy.
They stayed in their embrace for almost five minutes before Yukina cleared her throat to get their attention. They looked at her with confusion and she just smiled at them fondly.
“My brother can’t keep his energy peaked for too long before he gets tired. He will no doubt be drained within the next half-an-hour. He may have said an hour but you two should know better.” Yukina lightly spoke and Kurama nodded before he dragged Youko down the hallway and into one of the temple’s spare rooms.
Once inside with the door locked Youko took the lead. He pulled Kurama over to the bed and lay him down before straddling his waist. He then joined their lips in a light kiss which was quickly deepened. The Kitsune’s hands began to wonder rubbing lightly against Kurama’s neck before they unbuttoned the red-head’s shirt. He tossed it to the side and dragged his claws down the tender skin of Kurama’s chest before pulling back from their kiss.
“Love, I will not go all the way. I know how much you wish for Hiei to be your first.” Youko whispered before he leaned down and began kissing Kurama’s neck while his hands worked on the red-head’s pants. Kurama moaned lightly as Youko nipped at a sensitive part of his neck and the Kitsune chuckled. “But that won’t stop us from having alittle fun.” He purred as his hand drifted to his partner’s hard length.
Kurama released a deep moan as Youko started stroking him. The Kitsune smiled, happy with his partner’s reaction and he slowly started kissing his way down Kurama’s chest. He stopped to pay some attention the red-heads nipples and Kurama moaned his appreciation, his hands tangling in Youko’s silver locks. Youko chuckled as Kurama’s hands tried to push him lower and he relented, kissing down Kurama’s stomach till he reached the red-head’s hips. He lightly licked at the hard length before taking it into his mouth and giving it a strong suck. Kurama yelped out in pleasure before he bit into his hand to try and stop his noise.
Youko laughed at him around the hard length causing the red-head more pleasure and Kurama couldn’t hold back the cry that fell from his lips. Youko started bobbing his head while one of his hands stroked his loves thighs and the other hand fondled lightly with his jewels. Youko pulled back licking at the hard length as he spoke.
“Come on love, Come for me.” He whispered before he deep-throated Kurama in on go and began humming. Kurama moaned deeply as he came into his partner’s mouth and Youko happily swallowed it all, his tail wagging behind him. When the red-head dropped onto his back after releasing Youko pulled back with a smile as he licked his lips. He then leaned forward and pulled Kurama into a deep kiss.
Both moaned as their tongues fought and when Youko pulled back Kurama whined. The red-head reached up to caress Youko’s ears and the demon started purring.
“That’s cheating.” He whispered as he leaned down and kissed Kurama again. The red-head chuckled before pulling away this time.
“Now I know I just have to pat you and you will do what I want.” Youko growled playfully at Kurama’s words before he leaned down to lick at the sensitive spot on Kurama’s neck that he had found earlier.
“Are you ready?” He whispered and at Kurama’s nod Youko sunk his fangs into the tender flesh, Kurama’s cry of pleasure rang through the room. Youko smiled lightly as he fed some of his Ki into the mark before he pulled back and licked at the permanent scar that would be left.
“My turn now.” Kurama whispered before he pulled Youko down on top of him before sinking his on sharpened teeth into the kitsune’s neck. Youko purred grinding down against Kurama’s hips in pleasure and the red-head moaned as he fed some of his own Ki into the wound, leaving a similar mark to his own.
When Kurama retracted his canines from Youko’s neck the kitsune nuzzled into his chin with a happy sigh. They lay in silence before a chuckle broke out from Kurama’s chest.
“You know this wasn’t very fair. You’re still fully dressed.” He spoke with a pout and Youko just smiled before lightly kissing him.
“All in good time love.” He responded before relaying his head against Kurama’s chest with closed eyes, his tail lazily flicking against the blankets.
Chapter 10
Yukina looked out the front door to see her Brother in a deep sleep in one of the trees off to the left. The Ki he had been emitting the previous day had dimmed and stoped almost half-an-hour after he offered to help. She smiled before going back into the temple and heading down the hallway towards the room Kurama and Youko had gone into. She lightly pushed the door open and smiled at the two tangled on the bed. They were both deep in sleep, Youko was nuzzled into Kurama’s chest and his tail was resting over Kurama’s hips covering him from view. Yukina lightly closed the door before heading back out into the dining room where she sat down to read.
‘No point in bothering any of them for breakfast, they need their rest.’ She thought before she opened her book and got comfortable.
Youko awoke with a stretch and he smiled down at Kurama who continued to sleep peacefully beneath him. He slowly got up and pulled the covers over Kurama’s naked body. He looked down at himself, laying his hands on his chest as if to check if he was still real. His ears swivelled and his tail flicked in excitement before he ran from the room.
“Yukina!” He yelped as he ran into the loungeroom, the blue-haired woman looked up at him. “I’m here, and Kurama’s in there! It worked!” Youko yelped again before he ran from the house with a smiling Yukina looking after him. Youko stopped on the veranda before he spotted Hiei in one of the trees. He then leapt at the fire demon knocking them both to the floor.
Hiei was startled awake by the action before looking at the purring kitsune who was hugging him with confusion.
“What?” He asked rubbing the sleep from his eyes.
“Hiei! It worked! Thank you so much!” Youko praised as he nuzzled into the fire demons chest. He then realised what he was doing and backed up a meter before sitting cross-legged with his tail flicking beside him.
Hiei sat up regarding the Youko before he felt for Kurama’s Ki. The two were indeed separate. He looked back at Youko, eyes flickering over the mark on his neck before he breathed in deep. The kitsune smelled similar to Kurama but with a more woodland scent then flowers. Youko watched as sadness flickered through red eyes which usually hid all emotion.
“Congratulations.” The Jaganshi whispered before he flittered off.
Youko watched him go with a whine, his ears laid back and his tail limp. Yukina stood in the entrance way of the temple watching the saddened Youko with sympathetic eyes. She crossed the lawn and placed a hand on the kitsune’s shoulder.
“You cannot expect him to be happy Youko, he just helped you mate with the love of his life. On any level, he would be hurting greatly.” Yukina explained and Youko’s ears drooped further.
“We didn’t mate per say. Kurama is still a virgin.” He responded and Yukina smiled.
“I know that, but Hiei does not.” Youko looked up at her with sad eyes before standing and heading back inside. Yukina followed closely behind him.
Hiei stopped at the bottom of the temple steps and looked back with a sigh, he then flittered off again. Stopping on the roof of a shop in town. With the Ki he had used returned to him after a nights rest, he pulled the ward from his forehead and searched the city for Zoku, quickly locating the human on the east side of town. What confused Hiei was the upper B class energy surrounding the human.
He hurried across town stopping on the outskirts of the city. He followed the humans scent stopping when he reached Dayton bridge, down on the dry pathway were two teens. Hiei instantly recognized the blue-haired human as Zoku, what surprised him was the grey-haired teen holding the human a meter off the ground. The B class energy was coming from the stranger. Hiei stayed where he was watching as the demon shook the human with rage in his eyes.
“I’ve finally found you, you elusive fuck!” The demon growled and Zoku began to tremble in his grasp. “Didn’t I warn you pathetic human!” The grey-haired teen growled and Zoku whimpered, flinching away from the cold blood-red eyes boring into him.
“I haven’t gone near him, I swear!” Zoku yelped out and received a right hook that threw him into the ground.
“Don’t lie to me!” the demon yelled taking a threatening step forward and the human scrambled back.
“I do not lie! I haven’t touched your Ryou.” Zoku whimpered as the demon slammed his foot into his chest. Hiei stepped forward at the sound of Ryou’s name but didn’t go down.
A vicious snarl tore through the demon’s chest when Zoku used the kids name and he stamped his foot, drawing blood from the Human’s mouth.
“You think I couldn’t smell his blood? You think I wouldn’t go check on him? I have warned you time and time again about touching my mate!” Hiei looked on shocked as the demon pulled the human right to him and was surprised when the human spit in his face.
“Ryou isn’t your mate, he is Bakura’s.” The human laughed and shadows started to drift from the demons body, as his anger rose but he looked down, tossing Zoku off to the side with a defeated sigh. “Even so, this is your last warning Zoku. Touch Ryou or Bakura at all, and you will not walk away again.” With that the demon turned, noticing Hiei.
Hiei watched as with a grunt, similar to his own, the grey-haired teen took off. Hiei looked at Zoku, before deciding that he had been punished enough, he then turned and flittered after the other demon.
He found the demon in the park, sitting up in one of the trees, hidden from any humans. The demon looked down at him confused and Hiei smirked joining him on the branch.
“Why have you followed me?” The demon asked and Hiei regarded him before responding.
“Tell me your name first, Shadow Demon.” He grunted and an eerie look crossed the demon’s eyes before he looked away.
“My name is Akefia...” He responded reluctantly and Hiei nodded.
“Hiei.” The Jaganshi replied before silence fell over them. Akefia eventually looked up at Hiei with a strange look in his eyes.
“Now answer my question.” He growled and Hiei nodded.
“I have multiple questions to ask you, all of which regard Ryou.” Hiei spoke pretending not to care and he received a glare form Akefia.
“What about my Ryou!” The grey-haired teen shouted and watched as Hiei dropped to the ground and started out of the park. Interest peaked now, Akefia followed quickly falling into step beside him.
“I guess I’ll start with how do you know Ryou?” Hiei spoke and Akefia looked down.
“Ryou is mated to my best friend…” Akefia whispered and Hiei looked at him confused.
“This seems to make you depressed, why are you not happy for your friend and his mate?” Hiei asked confused, dully noting that this was quite similar to his own situation involving Youko and Kurama.
Akefia looked over him with guarded eyes before speaking.
“I love Bakura with all my heart and soul, I’d die for him and I know he feels the same for me, but... Ryou’s the one. And I cannot compete even if I wished too.” Hiei watched him continue walking from his frozen position.
‘It’s the same situation I’m in, except Kurama does not return my feelings.’ Hiei thought before Akefia stopped and glanced back at him.
“You coming?” The grey-haired teen called and Hiei nodded, hurrying to catch up.
Chapter 11
Kurama yawned as he stretched rubbing the sleep from his still closed eyes. He rolled over and flung his arm over Youko, but the limb just hit the mattress and Kurama rolled off the bed. He glared at the wooden floor of his room in the temple before sitting up with a sigh.
“I guess it didn’t work.” He muttered with a depressed sigh.
He got up and exited the room before trudging down the hallway. The smell of food and hot tea drew his attention and he headed for the kitchen, stopping short and shocked when he saw Yukina cooking and Youko sitting at the table. Their eyes met ad immediately Kurama’s hands went to his own body. Youko waited for the news to sink in before Kurama tackled him to the floor.
“Your still here!” He yelped in his joy and Youko nodded rubbing his back.
“Good morning love.” Youko replied and he released a light moan as Kurama pulled him into a deep kiss. The two stopped when Yukina cleared her throat.
Kurama quickly climbed off his mate, pulling Youko up by the hand and the two settled into their chairs. Yukina placed the finished food before the two with a smile as she sat down.
“So how are things with Ryou going?” She asked and Kurama smiled happily.
“Things are doing great, with my new promotion to manager, I’m pulling in a lot more money. Another two months or so and we will be able to provide enough for Ryou to come live with us.” Kurama responded around the food he was eating and Youko smiled, before frowning when Yukina spoke again.
“Will you two not allow me to help you with this? I can supply all the money you will need for him easily. You know that…” The young Koorime whispered and Kurama sighed before rubbing his palm on her cheek.
“I know you can and want to help Yukina, but I will not accept that kind of aid. Not after all you have been through because of it. You know how precious you are to the both of us, and I do not want to see you cry, regardless of the emotions behind it.” His gentle voice brought a soft smile to Yukina’s face and she nodded.
“Now, I have to go into work today so I need to be off.” Kurama spoke lightly as he stood and kissed Youko’s left ear before heading out of the temple and making his way home to get ready.
“Well this is strange…” Youko muttered and Yukina looked at him confused. “Kurama isn’t present and I’m in my own body, what am I to do with the day?” At his words Yukina laughed before taking him outside.
“Akefia?” Hiei voiced at the teen looked at him waiting for him to finish. “You love Bakura and Ryou is Bakura’s mate… How do you feel about Ryou?” He whispered and Akefia stared at him with calculating eyes before answering.
“I love him, Ryou has always made a soft spot in me and it’s because of him that I am no longer who I used to be… And it’s a good thing, I admit I was not proud of my life before, and it’s due to Ryou’s kindness and light that I was able to break away from my old life. I may not be able to be with ether of them, but I am content in the shadows, watching them from afar.” The shadow demon responded and Hiei nodded and a silence took over them once again. Hiei thought about Akefia’s words as he thought of his next question.
“How did you meet Bakura?” He asked and Akefia shook his head with a light smirk.
“I thought you were only going to ask about Ryou.” The demon laughed and Hiei smirked back at him.
“You intrigue me, you are much like myself and Ryou is important to me on some level. Will you answer my question?” Akefia’s sharp eyes narrowed at the other demon, boring into blood red eyes of the same colour before he glanced away, his expression softening.
“I used to be a thief, during one of my heists, I crossed paths with Bakura and his band of followers. We were both storming a well-protected castle and we were ambushed, it seems that they knew we were both coming. One of the soldiers managed to fatally wound one of Bakura’s high court and I immediately went to the soldiers aid, while Bakura led both our bands from the castle and out to safety. I barely managed to get both me and Bakura’s comrade out alive and Bakura aided in the rest of the escape out into the forest. During camp that night while tending to those who were injured, we decided that we should travel together. From there he became my closest and most trusted partner. Over the years we became sexual towards each other, and eventually we became lovers even going as far as to mate.” Akefia said with his hand against his neck where Hiei could see the fading mark against the pale skin.
“If you are mated, why did Bakura go with Ryou instead of you.” Hiei asked confused and Akefia sighed, before lowering his hand.
“Our mating was based purely off friendship that grew into love. Ryou… Ryou was the one, Bakura’s soul mate. As you know most demons can go their whole lives, taking several mates but without finding their soul mate. Bakura has, and for that I will protect Ryou with everything I am, because it will keep my mate happy.” Hiei thought about the words before asking something he felt he would regret.
“But Ryou is human, why bother? When he passes, Bakura will turn back to you. Isn’t that what you want?” Hiei asked and lowered his eyes as Akefia snarled ferrely.
“Never!” He snarled baring his fangs looking much like his wolf mate would. “I care for that boy as much as I care for Bakura. As far as I’m concerned he is my mate aswell, I will never let harm befall him as long as I am capable of protecting him.” His voice lowered as he spoke. “Besides he won’t die of old age.” He muttered and Hiei looked at him startled.
“What?”
“The boy is still a virgin, Bakura doesn’t believe he is ready for that level of intimacy yet but they have mated, and as you know when a Demon mates a Human, the human’s lifespan is prolonged, Wolves mate for life. Ryou’s lifespan has been lengthened to match that of Bakura.” Akefia explained and Hiei sighed that the kid would live for a long time.
‘Wait! Do they know?’ He asked himself before voicing his thoughts.
“Do Kurama and Youko know of Ryou’s extended lifespan?” Hiei asked and Akefia looked at him startled.
“How do you know the fox and his human? Come to think of it, how do you know Ryou?” Akefia finally voiced what he had been wondering since meeting the fire demon.
Hiei’s eyes stayed ahead of him as he thought about if he should tell Akefia everything or not. Like himself the demon was only talking to him regarding Ryou, and Akefia had already shared so much with him.
‘I think I can trust him.’ He thought before he sighed and took in a deep breath, before answering all the question’s Akefia had to ask.
Kurama hurried down the street, he had just left his house after showering and dressing. The flower shop where he worked came into view and he raced through the door just as his shift started.
“Just on time, as always.” Marik, his co-worker and the only other person who worked in the shop laughed and Kurama lightly glared at him.
Chapter 12
Hiei and Akefia strolled down the main street in a comfortable silence. One knew about everything to do with the other from ‘Hiei being abandoned as an infant’ to ‘Akefia’s whole village for friends and loved ones was destroyed before his eyes when he was but 10 years old.’ There was nothing that one didn’t know about the other and a peace had passed between the two demons. Their conversation had gone well into the day and it was mid-afternoon now.
“You know, you’re right, we are more alike than I first thought.” The shadow demon laughed and Hiei joined in.
Kurama was startled from his work by the sound of Hiei’s laughter, he looked up to see his fire demon walk passed the shop door with a grey-haired teen by his side, they were both laughing and smiling. Kurama was confused,
‘Who is that?’ He asked himself and jumped when Marik was by his side.
“Go on, I know you want to follow them.” The blonde laughed and Kurama frowned before doing just that, he jumped over the counter, ran across the room and slid out the door, thankful that the shop didn’t have one of those stupid bells. He ducked into the alleyway beside the shop and leapt onto the roof, following above the two demons.
When the laughter died down Hiei smiled up at Akefia.
“Thank you for your company today, after what happened last night, I just really wanted something to kill. But your presence has stopped me from going for blood.” He spoke lightly and Akefia nodded.
“Had I not felt your presence on the bridge, I would not have let that human go. Why were you at the bridge anyway?” Akefia asked and Hiei smiled.
“For Ryou of cause.” He responded with a smirk at Akefia and Kurama started.
‘What? How does Hiei know of Ryou, and what would going to Dayton bridge have to do with my kit?’ He asked in his head confused. Akefia shared Kurama’s expression and Hiei laughed at him.
“I told you of my talk with the boy and our question for question game. He is a bright kid, it didn’t take me long to get him to tell me that the person who hurt him was Zoku. After getting the information and leaving, I went back to the temple to rest before hunting the prick down. But that’s when Youko and Kurama made the request. The next morning after I slept off the use of my powers, Youko came out and thanked me for my help… I didn’t know what to do so I fled… Again.” He growled at his cowardice before continuing. “Then I found you, a demon already wailing into the human so I just let it be. Zoku had already been punished for what he did to Ryou. Granted I would have killed him, but he is human and I know Kurama does not approve of taking human life, being half-breed.” Hiei explained and Akefia nodded.
“After seeing Ryou’s wound I just flew into a blind rage, Zoku had been avoiding my presence for days, skipping out of the area every time I got close. When I finally caught him, My anger had simmered, he was lucky.” Akefia laughed and Hiei joined in again.
Ryou watched them with sad eyes.
“Hiei has never been that comfortable with anyone but me.’ He thought before noticing the mating mark on Akefia’s neck and he whimpered lightly stopping himself so the two demons didn’t hear him. ‘They must be mates, maybe that’s why Hiei is always hiding his neck.’
Hiei looked at Akefia, deep in thought before he finally spoke, shocking both Kurama and Akefia with his words.
“If you were given the chance to be with the two men you love, would you take it?” He asked and Akefia stopped looking at him shocked, his words were instant.
“Of cause I would! After everything I’ve told you, how could you ask such a stupid question, Both Bakura and Ryou mean the world to me. If ever I had the chance I would wish to share Ryou’s mark aswell.” Akefia confessed as he rubbed his neck where Bakura’s mark was. Hiei nodded to his words.
Kurama glared down at the grey-haired demon confused to no end and unsure how to feel.
‘Ryou so has some explaining to do.’ He growled in his head before Akefia’s next question reached his mind.
“Hiei, why do you ask?” Akefia looked at him with worry as sadness shaded over dull blood.
“I…” Hiei started unsure how to go about it, Akefia outstretched his hand to catch the three jewels that fell from the fire demon’s face. He looked down at them shocked.
“You really are part Koorime…” He muttered amazed and Kurama watched on startled as a few more tears fell from Hiei’s eyes, Akefia catching them all. He then wiped his hand across Hiei’s cheek to stem the flow, clenching his fist around the 12 gems in his hand. “Why do you shed these tears Hiei, what is wrong?” His worried voice came and Hiei took a deep breath.
“Before their mating yesterday, Youko approached me while I was with Ryou. After sending Ryou off to play and once we were alone he slapped me to make sure I was paying attention before saying some things I did not understand then. How did he expect me to react to my feelings, just take them as they come? I’ve been shunned my whole life, my own mother didn’t even want me, what would have ever made me think someone let alone he could return my feelings. I was blind to think that my leaving wouldn’t affect Kurama and Youko made sure I knew how much pain I cause both him and the fox. He said I did it because of my pride, but as I told him I’d give up my pride, my free will, heck even my power if it meant that Kurama would be happy. I left because I didn’t want to hurt him. I denied myself the truth about my feelings and the feelings of those around me, In hopes that everyone would not get hurt.” Akefia placed a hand on Hiei’s shoulder in comfort and Kurama watched his best friend with tears streaming from his eyes.
‘He really does care about us.’ Kurama rubbed at his eyes as Akefia spoke.
“Go to him, go to the both of them. Tell them the truth Hiei, your miserable, it’s clear they love you and you love them. What’s stopping you?” The grey-haired teen asked as they started walking again.
“I don’t know, I just can’t tell them. Once Ryou’s adoption goes through the four of them will be happy and you and I will be forgotten about. That is how it should be.” Hiei then walked off faster, Akefia watched him go depressed by the truth of his words before he hurried after Hiei.
Kurama couldn’t stop the second round of tears that fell from his eyes as he watched Hiei’s retreating form and noticed the trail of black gems he was leaving behind. Akefia quickly retrieved them all following behind the other in silence. Three blocks later and two pockets plus a hand full of teargems the trail finally stopped and Hiei looked back at his new friend. His eyes were red and puffy but a quick wipe of both hands cleared that. He pulled a small sack from his pocket and held it out to Akefia, the demon understood, poring the gems into the sack. Hiei counted as they rapidly fell into the bag and smiled slightly.
‘Two-hundred and fourteen Tear gems.” He said and Akefia looked at him confused, before smiling.
‘At least he is happy now.’ He thought before following Hiei as he crossed the road. Kurama stayed on the roof across the street as he watched them enter the front yard of the orphanage.
Hiei stopped in the porch and looked back at Akefia.
“You do not have to be here if you would prefer to see Ryou from a distance.” He spoke and Akefia nodded blurring before he appeared up in the dead tree in the yard.
Kurama watched the small exchange before his eyes followed Akefia to the tree. He then looked back at Hiei on the porch as the fire demon knocked on the old wooden door.
Chapter 13
“Coming!” A cheerful voice called out and Ryou burst through the front door before recognizing Hiei and jumping at him “Mr Hiei!” He yelped happily and Kurama smiled slightly as Hiei enveloped him in a hug.
“Hey Ryou.” He whispered and pulled back smiling at the young one.
“My Hiei, why do you use the door?” Ryou asked and Hiei looked down at the sack in his hand. “And what’s that?” The kid’s voice came out with child-like curiosity. Hiei laughed as he ruffled the young ones hair before standing.
“Kit, can you go get your caretaker for me?” Hiei asked and Ryou nodded, immediately running back inside. When he returned he was pulling a smiling Mai behind him.
“Ryou what is the problem?” She asked laughing as she was tugged along, when she noticed Hiei she stopped confused. “Good morning, how may I help you?” She asked politely, confused when Ryou hugged Hiei’s free arm.
“Good evening Miss?” Hiei started and a warm smile crossed Mai’s face.
“My name is Mai.” She responded holding her hand out, Hiei wiggled his arm out of Ryou’s grip and shook her hand.
“Well hello, My name is Hiei, I am a friend of… Shuuichi and Youko.” He spoke lightly and the woman’s smile grew even larger at the mention of the two.
“This explains your knowledge of Ryou.” Mai nodded before she looked confused. “May I ask why you have come here today?” Hiei nodded before his eyes drifted down to the sack in his hand before he looked back up at her.
“I have come to give the orphanage a donation.” He explained and Mai’s eyes looked at him uncertainly.
“Youko and Shuuichi have already done so much for us, I couldn’t possibly accept money from their friends also.” She explained and Hiei sighed.
“This building needs repairs, the land needs replenishing and the children need there essentials. Are you telling me that because of Youko and Shuuichi’s donations you will deny my money that can provide these things for the young ones?” Hiei asked in a stern but hollow voice that un-nerved Mai and the woman franticly shook her head.
“Of cause I wouldn’t deny these kids anything.” She cried and Hiei nodded with a smile.
“Good, then here is my donation.” He said holding out the sack and Kurama’s eyes grew wide as he watched Mai take the sack.
‘He is really just going to give all them away, for the sake of five abandoned HUMAN children?’ Kurama was shocked by the generosity and smiled slightly. ‘He has change since I met him that day all those years ago.’
Mai looked into the sack and gasped almost dropping it. Hiei’s quick reflexes caught the sack handing it back to her with a sigh.
“Are these?” She asked stunned and Hiei nodded.
“Hiruseki Stones, yes.” Hiei smiled as she then looked at him confused.
“Aren’t they supposed to be… Icy blue?” She asked and Hiei nodded before looking at the sack full of his treasures.
“These are more valuable, rarer than the originals. A normal Hiruseki Stone can easily fetch a thousand, these however can easily fetch double that. In that sack is Two-hundred and fourteen black Hiruseki Stones, easily four hundred and thirteen thousand when sold. Please use them to make sure these kids have the life they deserve, and with this I expect Ryou’s adoption to be finalized as soon as possible.” Mai stood stunned watching Hiei as he turned to Ryou.
“I’ll see you around Kid.” He said ruffling the white locks before retreating quickly, Akefia joining his side as he left.
“Mr Hiei!” Ryou yelped out and Hiei stopped just through the gate. “Thank you, for everything. I… I forgive you.” He said and Hiei nodded with a slight smile before he took off. Kurama watched them go with a shocked expression before Mai ushered Ryou back inside.
“Come on Ryou, we have much to do today. We have food to buy, oh and new beds, and we can fix that leak in the bathroom. And we can finally get that garden out the front that you want so much.” Her excited voice brought a smile to Kurama’s face before he decided he had heard enough. He then headed back to his apartment where he found Youko waiting for him
.
“I take it you are not ready to face either of them yet?” Akefia asked and Hiei nodded, watching his feet as they walked. “Come on, I’ll take you back to the den, you can spend the night there and see them tomorrow.” Akefia then lead him off down the street. Hiei followed at a fast pace.
It took them five minutes to reach the den, Hiei immediately recognized the ‘den’ as an abandoned building and vaguely remembered Ryou saying Bakura lived in an a similar place. They crawled in through a crack in the wall and into a darkened room. A burst of energy from inside shocked Hiei, but Akefia didn’t seem bothered.
“Calm down Kura it’s just me.” Akefia called out and the Ki lowered somewhat.
“Kef, who do you bring into our dwelling?” A deep voice asked and Akefia smiled.
“Friend of Ryou’s.” He answered and the Ki vanished completely before the room lit up and Hiei was surprised at the sight of the third person, the teen could easily pass as Ryou’s twin, except he was taller, battle worn, had two mating marks on his neck, on either side, the left more prominate then the right and had pitch black hair.
“You must be Bakura.” Hiei initiated stepping forward with an out stretched hand. Bakura flared his Ki on instinct at the stronger demon before he cautiously took the fire demons hand in his own. He sniffed lightly at Hiei and the demon allowed him too.
“You smell of him, he seemed happy by your presence. I’m glad to know of his well-being. However your scent is unfamiliar. I do not recognize you at all. What are you to my mate?” Bakura asked releasing the hand and looked at the demon who stood level with his height. Akefia disappeared deeper into the dwelling with a slight smile.
“If things go according to plan he will be Ryou’s dad.” His cheerful voice reached both their ears and Hiei blushed deeply before Bakura’s face took on a thoughtful expression.
“Ahh so you’re the one. The demon that completely shattered the great spirit foxes heart.” Bakura spoke as if it was common knowledge and at the harshness of his words, Hiei flinched. “Do not worry, I hold no judgement towards you for your actions.” Bakura whispered and Hiei could see the longing in those deep blue eyes as Bakura watched Akefia who was lying face first on the makeshift bed. “Let me say one more thing before I drop this subject.” Bakura said looking back at Hiei. “Both Youko and Kurama hold the same depth of love for you, that I hold Ryou.” He said and Hiei nodded knowing that silently Bakura threw ‘And Akefia.’ on the end.
Bakura then stalked over to Akefia and kicked the shadow demon of the bed before getting comfortable himself.
“Now get some sleep, or shut up. I was in the middle of a good rest.” The wolf demon growled and Akefia got to his feet with a smile before laying down on the bed, curling up beside Bakura.
Hiei smiled at the lack of reaction Bakura paid him before he sighed and made himself comfortable where he was.
‘Tomorrow, I’ll do it tomorrow.’ He thought and he left his mind to wander before sleep finally took him.
Chapter 14
“Oi.” The deep voice of Bakura called before a sharp kick landed in his side. “Get up. “ The voice growled again and Hiei batted the foot away before sitting up.
“What’s wrong?” He asked confused on why he was woken up.
“It’s daylight, get moving.” Bakura growled and Hiei looked at him, still confused. “Akefia told me everything. You need to go, your actions are hurting Ryou. Whilst you may think you have done the right thing, you have not. You will tell them both today.” Hiei could tell the wolfs threat was not empty and sighed before standing up. He noticed that the right mating mark on Bakura’s neck had gained its sheen and rivalled the left one.
“When will you tell Ryou.” Hiei asked and Bakura smiled at the thought of his human mate.
“As soon as we are ready to set off. I know he will be busy to day with everything Mai will have planned for the orphanage, Akefia and I will offer our assistance.” Bakura explained and Hiei nodded before he looked down at his hands.
“I can’t say for sure that you three will be my sons the next time we meet Bakura, but I want you to know that I do care for Ryou and he will not feel any more pain caused by myself.” With the words out, Hiei vanished leaving Bakura to go wake his mate.
Hiei headed to the temple first, he wasn’t sure how to go about telling the two of his feelings and what to do once they knew.
‘I know Youko will be sated with just a simple mating but Kurama is human, well part so. Perhaps Yukina would know how to go about a proposal.’
When he reached the temple Yukina was outside sweeping the porch.
“Sister.” Hiei called out and the blue-haired Koorime looked up with a big smile.
“Good morning Brother, what brings you here. You seem rattled.” She spoke with worry and Hiei waved it off.
“I need your help, I wish to... propose to Kurama.” Hiei said reluctantly and before he knew it he had his arms full of Yukina.
“That’s wonderful brother! How will you go about it?” She asked excited and Hiei frowned.
“I was hoping you could help me with that, but I don’t want to take him out to some cheesy dinner at an overpriced restaurant, with the bended knee and ring and the cheering crowd of ease-droppers.” Hiei muttered and Yukina laughed before she thought for a minute before speaking.
“Kurama always told me that you were a great singer, despite you never knowing that he heard you.” Yukina said and Hiei looked at her shocked, blushing lightly. “It’s Friday, the group goes out to a Karaoke bar once a week for a get together and catch up. That’s tonight. Maybe you could sing a song to him?” Yukina suggested and Hiei smiled.
“I like that Idea.” He smiled but looked worried when Yukina frowned. “What is it?” He asked and she looked off to the side.
“What about Youko, they are a two package deal, you can’t have one without the other.” Yukina explained and Hiei smiled again, this time brighter.
“I have every intention of Mating with Youko aswell, I just know he will be satisfied with a mark and not a ring.” With that said, Hiei’s eyes widened. Yukina shook her head at him.
“I will take care of the ring, you just take care of the song.” Hiei nodded to her, pulling her into a light hug. He then went to leave but stopped and delved into his pocket. He pulled out two teargems, Yukina was surprised, one was pitch black and the other was blood red.
“Perhaps you can use these and provide the third colour.” Hiei said as he wrapped Yukina’s hand around the two gems, he then took off again, stopping when Yukina called out.
“Oh and Hiei! Tonight’s theme is Nickleback, one of their songs would work best.” Yukina then watched him go, noticing the smile that flittered across his lips before sighing and leaving the temple. A trip to the Makai was in order.
Hiei stopped as he landed on the branch that outstretched to the red-heads window. He slowly crept forward and looked in. Youko and Kurama were tangled among the sheets, deep in sleep. Hiei then silently slid the window open and snuck in, He smiled down at the two of them, lightly kissing them both, Kurama on the forehead and Youko against his visible ear. He then slipped over to the stereo and removed his Nickelback CD. Looking back at the two once more he made a hasty retreat through the window and down the street.
Youko stirred lightly and looked around he was surprised to see the CD played on with its lid popped and the window open.
‘So he plans to sing.’ Youko thought before he looked down at his peaceful mate, ‘It won’t be long now love.’ He thought before licking Kurama’s cheek and nuzzling into him before allowing sleep to reclaim him.
Hiei stopped before the orphanage, smiling when he saw both Akefia and Bakura cleaning the front lawn of all its dead branches and leaves. He could see Mai through the window on the phone. Ryou was sitting on the steps swinging his legs as he watched the two work. He jumped to his feet when he saw Hiei and ran over to the demon. Hiei pulled him into a hug before looking at the other two demons who stopped working.
“You told him yet?” He asked and Bakura nodded before Hiei looked into Ryou’s sparkling eyes.
“Isn’t it great?” He yelped and Hiei nodded smirking as the wolf and shadow demons got back to work.
“It sure is, now you know you will always be safe.” Hiei whispered before he withdrew the CD from his cloak pocket. “Ryou I need your help with something very important, Can you please come with me for a little while?” Hiei asked and Ryou looked thoughtful before he turned to look at Mai, the woman was watching them through the window.
Ryou made some signs with his hand’s that Hiei did not recognize and Mai nodded to him. Ryou then smiled and turned to Hiei with a nod.
“Kura, Kef, I’m going with Mr Hiei for a little while alright?” He called to the two demons and they both nodded.
“Stay safe love.” Bakura called out and Ryou nodded before taking Hiei’s hand and dragging him off down the street.
“What’s the CD for Mr Hiei?” Ryou asked as he pointed to the disk that Hiei had withdrawn from his cloak when he got to the orphanage.
“This is what I need your help with.” Hiei responded letting Ryou take the CD from him. “But first I need to get a player for it.”
Ryou looked at him with a smile before taking his hand and leading him down the street.
“I know the perfect place to get a stereo for the CD, you do have money right?” Ryou asked looking at Hiei over his should as they walked.
“Money will not be a problem young one, just lead the way.” Hiei responded and Ryou nodded tugging Hiei’s wrist again.
Chapter 15
Ryou excitedly pulled Hiei into an electronics store and over to the main desk where a Blonde, dressed in lavender and black was sitting, Feet on the counter, eyes closed and head-phones in, bobbing his head to the music. Ryou walked over to him and pulled out an ear plug.
“That’s the quickest way to get robbed slacker.” Ryou taunted in a stern voice and the blonde smiled at him.
“Ryou, it’s good to see you. How is Bakura doing?” The blonde asked and Ryou nodded before going to stand beside Hiei again.
“Good, good, but Malik. I’m not here for a personal call, I wanna buy something.” Ryou responded cheerily.
“What can I get for you buddy?” Malik asked standing and looking at Ryou with soft eyes. Hiei growled lightly when the look seemed almost sympathetic, full of pity, but Ryou didn’t seem to notice.
“Can I get a Walkman please? I want to listen to this CD.” Ryou responded holding out the disk and Malik looked over it before thinking. He then disconnected the one at his side and handed it over.
“Here have mine, I’m looking to replace it come next pay anyway.” The blonde smiled and the look that crossed Ryou’s face was priceless, he leapt onto the counter and pulled Malik into a hug. “I know, I know little buddy, besides Bakura would strangle me if I took your money.” He whispered and Ryou nodded before pulling back. He stayed on the counter though with his arms still around Malik’s neck.
“How are you and Marik doing?” He asked in a teasing voice and the blonde blushed brightly.
“Fine now get going.” Malik yelped with affection before turning to the store. “I’ve got other customers too.” The blonde winked at Ryou before watching his friend and Hiei leave. He then went back to resting, while waiting for the other customers to finish shopping.
Hiei was thankful that the blonde didn’t ask about him because he wasn’t sure how to refer to Ryou at the moment. He shook his head as Ryou started off again, leading him to that familiar spot in the park. Once they were settled down Ryou placed the CD in the Walkman and pressed play, he then handed a headphone to Bakura and kept one for himself.
Just as the first song started its beat, Ryou paused it.
“What exactly are we looking for?” Ryou asked with curiosity and Hiei sighed taking a deep breath before he responded, bracing lightly in case of rejection
“I’m looking for a song to sing to... Papa...” Hiei said and Ryou nodded waiting for him to expand on his answer.
‘So far so good.’ Hiei thought before continuing.
“I want to propose to him, tonight.” Hiei finished in a rush and Ryou looked shocked before he pulled Hiei into a hug and nestled into his lap with a big grin.
“Then that means you and Father and Papa will be together?” He asked eyes shining in the sunlight and Hiei nodded. “That’s fantastic! Now let’s find this song for you to sing, what do you wish for it to say?” Ryou asked and Hiei looked down.
“You know of the situation young one, I want it to portray how I feel. That I’m sorry for what I’ve done and that I would never their sides again. That I would always come for them no matter what.” Hiei explained and Ryou nodded before looking at the disk.
“Is there something special about the fifteen songs on this CD?” Ryou questioned and Hiei nodded in response.
“Nickleback is Kurama’s and my favourite band.” He responded with a whisper and Ryou nodded before pressing play. They listened though the list of songs weighing each one for the situation:
Song 1: ‘Lullaby’
Song 2: ‘Holding On To Heaven’
Song 3: ‘Gotta Be Somebody’
Song 4: ‘Follow You Home’
Song 5: ‘Animals’
As the song started Ryou blushed brightly before pressing the next button. Hiei looked at him confused before the young one explained.
“You may feel strongly for Papa and Father, but that is a very bold declaration especially because it refers to them so intimately.” Ryou finished and Hiei nodded accepting the explanation before listening on.
Song 6: ‘Don’t Ever Let It End’
Song 7: ‘Never Gonna Be Alone’
Song 8: ‘Burn It To The Ground’
Song 9: ‘Fight For All The Wrong Reasons’
Song 10: ‘Far Away’
Song 11: 'If Today Was Your Last Day'
Song 12: ‘Next Contestant’
Song 13: ‘If Everyone Cared’
Song 14: ‘Just To Get High’
Song 15: ‘Someone That Your With’
As the final song finished Ryou looked at Hiei with a small smile.
“Four of them catch my interest, ‘Holding On To Heaven’, ‘Don’t Ever Let It End’, ‘Far Away’ and ‘Never Gonna Be Alone.’ But even so none of the really say what you want them too.” Ryou responded and Hiei grunted in agreence, he froze when a light tune drifted from the still on Walkman.
“Ryou wasn’t there only 15 songs?” He asked and the teen nodded before he responded. “There seems to be another song after the last one.” He spoke as he remembered the song Kurama had rushed to stop from playing.
Ryou nodded and the two of them silently listened as the last song played.
Song 16: ‘I’d Come For You’
“This is it!” Ryou said excitedly as the song came to an end. “This is the song, It says exactly what you want it too, Papa will be so happy.” Hiei smiled at the teen bouncing in his lap.
“Come, you must get back to Akefia and Bakura, and I have preparations to make.” Hiei shooed Ryou off his lap before walking him back to the orphanage.
Ryou handed him the Walkman before heading through the gate.
“Keep that to learn the song, the we can return it to Malik when I see you next.” He said before called back over his shoulder as he started to run.
“Good luck Dad!” Hiei smiled as he watched Ryou jump on Bakura, the two of them tumbling into a newly raked pile of leaves, laughing along with Akefia before bidding the three farewell.
Chapter 16
Hiei flittered up the steps and made himself comfortable in his tree. Yukina wasn’t home so that gave him some time to memorise the tune and its words. He placed the headphones in, set the Walkman to repeat and closed his eyes. Allowing the sweet tune to wash over him.
Yukina skipped up the steps with a smile on her face. It had taken quite a few teargems and a few hours of pleading to convince the greedy Makai Jeweller to create the three rings but Yukina was happy with the results, knowing that this would make her brother extremely happy. She laughed lightly when she caught site of Hiei, in his tree, headphones in and snoring lightly.
She woke him up with a small pulse of her Ki and he smiled down at her. It was nearing 5pm and the group went out at 7pm. He jumped down from the tree and pulled her into a hug.
“I see you have picked your song then?” Yukina asked and Hiei nodded.
“How did you go?” He looked over Yukina to make sure she was unharmed after a trip to Makai in her current state and she smiled at his worry.
“I’m fine brother and of cause I had a successful trip.” Yukina then pulled out a little pouch, she pulled the draw-string and dipped her hand in retracting three rings.
The first of the three a Silver band sporting a Black Asian dragon. Hiei’s eyes widened at the detail of the ring as he slipped it over his wedding finger. He then smiled at Yukina as she held out the other two. The second ring was also a Silver band, but this one was sporting Three Red Roses, the middle being the biggest. Again Hiei was surprised by the detail and had to wonder where Yukina went to get them made. The Third and final ring was made completely of an Icy blue substance, Hiei glared as he realised how many teargems it would have taken to make. But he smiled when he realised what the ring was. It was of a fox, made to look like the foxes body was wrapped around your finger, head and tail meeting in the middle. Hiei slipped the two rings back into the pouch, keeping the third on his finger. He then handed her the pouch. She looked down at it confused and he smiled.
“You will know when to give them the rings.” He smiled and she nodded, knowing he had a plan. “Thank you so much sister.” Hiei whispered as he hugged her tightly before pulling away.
“Go, you have a couple more hours to practice. Everyone will be arriving around seven then we will get going.” Yukina shooed him and he smiled before returning to his tree. He watched her go into the temple.
It was 6:55 when Yusuke and Keiko came up the temple steps, they were surprised to see Hiei still hanging around but continued on to be greeted by Yukina, the three then waited for the others to arrive.
By 7:10 everyone was gathered in the temples loungeroom and Hiei was nowhere to be seen.
“Is Hiei coming or is it just us?” Yusuke asked and Yukina shrugged.
“He didn’t say, but we should get going or we will miss our reservation.” Yukina responded and they all left the room to get into Yusuke’s car. Yusuke and Keiko were in the front, while Kuwabara, Yukina and Kurama sat in the back. Youko had opted to run, not liking the thought of riding in the contraption.
After a short ten minutes the car pulled up out the front of the bar. Youko was leaning against the brick wall with his ears pinned down and his tail hidden from sight, he looked slightly annoyed but was happy none-the-less when Kurama joined his side. The others filed out of the car and went inside.
Hiei watched them form his vantage point across the street before he headed in aswell, slipping back stage to get ready and alert the band to what he wished to do.
The group was quickly seated at their table, being regulars there every week and were quickly served. The group enjoyed their drinks creating small chat for almost an hour before the Karaoke was open. Yusuke and Kuwabara fought over who would go first and surprisingly it was Kuwabara who won out, he jumped to his feet and ran to the stage with a huge goofy grin. He told the band his song and grabbed the mic.
“I dedicate this song to my lovely Yukina, you are my best friend and the greatest wife I could ever ask for. You’re going to be a wonderful mother and I love you!” Yukina blushed brightly and the crowd around them cheered as the tune to ‘Holding On To Heaven’ drifted through the room and Kuwabara started singing, Yukina smiled up at her mate listening to his voice as moved around the stage with a happy smile on his face. She unconsciously twirled the ring on her finger, thinking about how happy she was.
When Kuwabara finished he jumped down from the stage and sat down beside Yukina, with his arm around the Koorime’s waist. He looked over at Yusuke expectantly but the Mazoku just stayed where he was.
“I’ll go up soon, let some of the other people here sing first.” He muttered and Kuwabara smirked at him.
“You’re just too afraid to follow up my act!” He laughed and Yusuke shot to his feet.
“Never! You’re on, Ima kick your ass!” The former spirit detective shouted as he scrambled towards the stage and jumped up, snatching the mic and telling the band his song. The drummer shook his head at the teen who frequented the bar and counted the beat for
‘Don’t Ever Let It End’ drifted through the room.
Yusuke Started singing with a huge grin in his face, he looked directly at Keiko as he sung and the brunette blushed even brighter then Yukina before sinking into her seat. When Yusuke was finished he went and sat down with a triumphant grin and Kuwabara glared at him. The two then broke into laughter before settling into the table. Yusuke leaned over and kissed a still blushing Kieko lightly on the cheek before turning his attention to the redhead on his left. He nudged Kurama’s shoulder and the teen looked at him with confusion. At the look in Yusuke’s eyes Kurama knew exactly what he wanted and franticly shook his head, sinking deeper into his chair. He had managed to avoid singing during their nights out with help from Youko but tonight even Youko seemed to want Kurama to sing. His resistance held up for less the two minutes before he found himself on the stage before the microphone. He sighed before looking back at the band and muttering his song choice.
Chapter 17
The soft beat of ‘Trying Not To Love you’ entered the club and Kurama shut his eyes as he started singing.
“You call to me and I fall at your feet, how could anyone ask for more?” Hiei’s head shot up from the lyric sheet he was reading at the sound of Kurama’s voice.
“And our time apart like knives in my heart, how could anyone ask for more?” Hiei flitted to the side of the stage and glanced out, greeted by the sight of Kurama bathed in stage light, eyes closed as he sang.
“But if there’s a pill to help me forget, god knows I haven’t found it yet. But I’m dying to, god I’m trying to…” Kurama opened his eyes unaware of the rich red watching him from the shadows backstage. He locked eyes with Youko who gave him a comforting smile and he returned the gesture before taking a deep breath and raising his voice.
“Cause trying not to love you, only goes so far. Trying not to need you, is tearing me apart. Can’t see the silver lining, from down here on the floor. And I just keep on trying, but I don’t know what for. Cause trying not to love you…” Kurama lowered his eyes to the floor before breathing out the last line filled with pain and sorrow. “Only makes me love you more…” Youko stood up and ran to the stage, he jumped up and moved to stand beside Kurama. “Only makes me love you more…” Kurama repeated and his shocked eyes shot to Youko as the fox took the microphone and continued the next part of the song.
“And this kind of pain, only time takes away, that’s why it’s harder to let you go.” He sang as he lifted Kurama’s chin with a finger and stroked his cheek. Hiei watched the tender moment with sad eyes. “And nothing I can do, without thinking of you, that’s why it’s harder to let you go.” Youko smiled before turning out to the stage and continuing in a strong voice. Kurama just closed his eyes and listened to his mates deeper voice. “But if there’s a pill to help me forget, god knows I haven’t found it yet. But I’m dying to, god I’m trying to…” Youko turned his head and locked eyes with Hiei who just watched him in silence. Youko smiled slightly as he continued. “Cause trying not to love you, only goes so far. Trying not to need you, is tearing me apart. Can’t see the silver lining, from down here on the floor. And I just keep on trying, but I don’t know what for. Cause trying not to love you…” He then turned from Hiei and smiled down at Kurama who returned the loving gaze. “Only makes me love you more…” He then passed the microphone back and wrapped his arms around Kurama’s waist, his front flush against Kurama’s back and his head resting on the teens shoulder.
Kurama sighed before singing the bridge. “So I sit here divided, just talking to myself. Was it something that I did? Was there somebody else? When a voice from behind me, that was fighting back tears. Sat right down beside me, whispered right in my ear. Said, I’ve been dying to tell you…” He sang, his voice lowering towards the end, he turned his head and looked into Youko’s eyes as they both sang the last part together.
“That trying not to love you, only went so far. That trying not to need you, was tearing me apart. Now I see the silver lining, from what we’re fighting for. We just keep on trying, then we could be much more. Cause trying not to love you, Oh, yeah, trying not to love you.”
Kurama sang the last line alone. “Only makes me love you more.”
Youko gave Hiei one last fleeting glance before resting his forehead against Kurama’s, whispering the final line. “Only makes me love you more.”
Cheers erupted from the crowd and it jolted the two from their current state, Youko glanced backstage but frowned when he couldn’t find Hiei. His attention was drawn back to Kurama with a tug on his hand. Youko followed the younger back to their table and sat down, sitting the younger in his lap and hugging him close. Ignoring their friends who seemed to get the hint, leaving them alone, a silence took over the table. After a few minutes Yusuke broke it.
“I’m hungry, let’s get some food.” The Mazoku whined and Youko laughed before agreeing and everyone ordered something to eat, Youko ordering for both himself and Kurama. They then sat in a happier silence, eating and listening to the singers who decided to brave the stage after the four boys.
After half an hour and the ending of another singer Yusuke jumped to his feet, grasped Kuwabara’s collar and pulled him towards the stage.
“Yo guys, another song huh.” He greeted before he and Kuwabara fought over what song to sing and Yusuke won. Telling the band the last song they wanted to sing, the band started up the music. The upbeat tune had the crowed clapping along as Yusuke and Kuwabara bounced around the stage singing.
Hiei looked out through the crowd as the idiots sung and spotted Kurama and Youko watching them with amusement, still cuddled in a tight embrace.
“Tell me what you know, tell me what you’ve gone and done now!” Both ‘Idiots’ cried out, the crowd joining in before they continued singing alone.
Hiei sighed to calm his nerves and waited till the end of the song, which signalled his turn. He took another deep breath as Yusuke and Kuwabara got off the stage. They went and sat down with the others and everyone watched as the stage lights dimmed, the band had glanced off to the left. Hiei nodded to them to say he was ready.
Chapter 18
The light music of an all too familiar song drifted through the room and Kurama’s eyes grew wide as he recognized the song. Youko smiled slightly at Hiei’s choice as he took in Kurama’s reaction. The younger sat ridged in his lap, eyes trained on the stage. They widened slightly as a familiar voice drifted through the room in a low tone.
“Just One more moment, that's all that's needed. Like wounded soldiers, in need of healing.” Hiei sung in his deep voice as he stepped out onto the stage taking slow steps till he reached the centre of the platform. The group watched him with confusion, Youko and Yukina smiled slightly and Kurama looked on intrigued. “Time to be honest, this time I'm pleading. Please don't dwell on it, ‘cause I didn't mean it.”
The lights then turned on flooding the stage in light and Hiei looked directly into Kurama’s emerald eyes as he sung with all his heart.
“I can’t believe I said I'd lay our love on the ground, but it doesn't matter cause I've made it up forgive me now. Every day I spend away my souls inside out, gotta be some way that I can make it up, to you now, somehow. By now you’d know that.” As the chorus started the Jaganshi’s eyes slid shut afraid to see the expression of rejection cross Kurama’s face, but he didn’t stop singing. “I'd come for you, no one but you, yes I'd come for you, but only if you told me to. And I'd fight for you, I'd lie, it's true, give my life for you, you know I'd always come for you.” Hiei finished and he looked down as the beat continued.
Kurama watched him with wide eyes before he turned to regard Youko and Yukina. Youko was smiling happily, eyes on the stage and Yukina just reached out and held Kurama’s hand in a comforting grasp. As the words started again Kurama looked up to the stage.
“I was blindfolded, but now I'm seeing. My mind was closing, now I'm believing. I finally know just what it means to let someone in, to see the side of me that no one does or ever will.” Hiei made eye contact with Yukina as he finished the line and nodded before starting on the next one. As he sung Yukina dug into her pocket and pulled out the pouch. She then dropped the rings into her hand and waited for the words. “So if you're ever lost and find yourself all alone, I'd search forever just to bring you home. Here and now, this I vow.” Hiei stopped singing and dropped to one knee, the band held their instruments still and a silence fell over the bar.
Hiei’s eyes were boring into Kurama’s and only a nudge from Yukina drew the redheads eyes from his own. That was when the loud gasp rang through the room. Hiei watched anxiously as Yukina handed Kurama his ring. The teen looked shocked and his eyes shot to Hiei with confusion before noticing the look of anxiety in his eyes. Kurama then looked over at Youko who was also studying the ring he was given. Youko slid it on trying it for size before smiling at Kurama who slid his own on and nodded to Hiei. He was surprise by the amount of emotion that crossed the usually emotionless Jaganshi’s face before Hiei glanced behind him and stood back up. He nodded to the band before looking back out at his new mates with an ecstatic expression.
“By now you know that, I'd come for you, no one but you, yes I'd come for you, but only if you told me to. And I'd fight for you, I'd lie, it's true, give my life for you, you know I'd always come for you. You know I'd always come for you.” Hiei sung before his eyes slid shut and he continued singing. “No matter what gets in my way, as long as there's still life in me. No matter what, remember, you know I'll always come for you.” The lights on the stage dimmed down again and Kurama watched with silent tears as his love sung for him and Youko.
“Yes I'd come for you, no one but you, yes I'd come for you, but only if you told me to.” The lights flashed one more time before remaining on as the song drew to an end. “And I'd fight for you, I'd lie, it's true, give my life for you, you know I'd always come for you. No matter what gets in my way, as long as there's still life in me. No matter what, remember, you know I'll always come for you. I'd crawl across this world for you, do anything you want me to. No matter what, remember, you know I'll always come for you. You know I'll always come for you.”
Hiei sighed as the last beat played and the song drifted to a stop, he was then met with a loud cheering and looked up startled before he was tackled to the ground and drawn into a deep kiss. Startled his body tensed as his eyes grew wide before Kurama’s scent of roses drifted past his nose and he relaxed into the redheads hold.
When Kurama pulled away he helped Hiei to his feet and dragged him off the stage and over to their table forcing him to sit when he resisted. The Jaganshi growled at the looks Yusuke and Kuwabara were giving him before he sighed as Youko’s arm wrapped around him. With not enough chairs now, Kurama happily sat in Hiei’s lap and nuzzled into him with a content smile.
Hiei zoned out as he was forced to stay and listen as the group chatted about this and that, his eyes glazed over as he thought of all that had happened the past week. He lightly kissed Kurama on the head, smiling as the redhead buried his face deeper into his shirt. He then glanced at Youko who was smiling fondly at the both of them. The Kitsune reached out and grasped Hiei’s hand with his own before turning back to Yusuke who asked him a question.
The group stayed there for a few more hours, and finally decided to leave early morning. As they exited the building Yusuke lead the way to his car, Kuwabara and Yukina climbed into the back as Yusuke and Keiko climbed into the front. When Yusuke waited for the others to get in. Hiei just shook his head.
“We will walk.” He responded and Yusuke nodded, bidding them farewell and congratulations before he drove off.
Once alone Youko looked down at Hiei and the fire demon shifted nervously. Youko smiled before he pulled Hiei in for a light kiss. The Jaganshi immediately relaxed and leaned in slightly, conscious of a sleeping Kurama in his arms. When Youko pulled back Hiei sighed and the two started off down the street.
“Youko…” Hiei started but stopped when a clawed finger touched his lips.
“You do not need to say anything. You have no idea how happy you have made the both of us and I can imagine yourself.” Youko whispered and Hiei nodded. As they walked down the street and noticed the apartment they slowed down. “Will you be staying?” Youko asked and Hiei glanced up at the window before looking down at Kurama.
“I’m sorry Youko, I’m… I just need alittle more time.” Hiei responded and Youko looked down, if his ears hadn’t already been pinned Hiei could imagine that they would have drooped. “I will stay in the tree tonight.” He added on and Youko smiled slightly before Hiei handed Kurama over to him.
Youko then kissed Hiei lightly before carrying Kurama towards the apartment’s front door and quickly entering. Hiei scaled the tree and smiled as he got comfortable on the branch looking into his mate’s bedroom.
Youko unlocked the door with his claw, not bothering to fish out the keys and carefully took Kurama into their shared home. He shut the door with his foot and carried Kurama into their bedroom. He lightly laid the redhead on the bed, removing his shoes and pulling the covers over him, before he glanced out at Hiei with a smile.
Hiei watched with amusement as Youko removed the pins from his ears with a low whine, wiggling the appendages around to regain blood flow. He then smiled as the furry tail uncurled from around his waist and appeared to stretch out before swaying behind him in a content manner.
Youko then headed over to the window and slid it open, leaning on the window seal.
“Do you need anything love?” He asked in a low voice and Hiei shook his head before shooing the fox away.
“I am fine, you just go to sleep. I will see you in the morning.” He said lightly and Youko smiled before heading back inside, leaving the window open.
He climbed into bed beside Kurama, pulling the redhead into his arms before drifting off to sleep. Hiei smiled at them through the window before wrapping his cloak around himself and drifting off to sleep.
Chapter 19
Kurama woke up with a stretch before rolling over and opening his eyes. He whined when he found himself alone in the room. With an annoyed sigh he got up and ran his hand through his hair.
‘He better be here.’ Kurama groused in his mind as he stalked into the bathroom. When he re-entered the bedroom, the sound of laughter flittered from down the hallway and Kurama smiled at the two deep voices of his mates.
He quickly exited the room and walked down the hallway before finding the source of the laughter in the kitchen. Hiei had Youko pinned to the counter and the fox’s ears were perked as his tail swayed behind him mischievously, showing that the situation was not dangerous. Kurama knew immediately what was wrong. Youko had a spoon in his hand from the batter he had been stirring and some of the mix was spread across Hiei’s left cheek.
Youko grinned cheekily at Hiei as the Jaganshi playfully glared back. The Kurama cleared his throat stepping into the room and breaking the two from their stare.
“Good morning love.” Youko greeted with a smile and Kurama just shook his head.
“You should know better Youko.” Kurama scolded lightly as he took the spoon from the Kitsune’s hand. “Food is meant for cooking, serving and eating.” Kurama then turned to Hiei, took a hold of his chin with his free hand and licked the batter off the now red cheek. “Not for tormenting Hiei. Now both of you, out of my kitchen.” With that said Kurama turned to finish with the batter his mates were making for breakfast.
Youko nuzzled into Kurama’s cheek before leaving the room, a still blushing Hiei close behind. When they got comfortable in the loungeroom Hiei looked at Youko. The fox was looking out the window, his ears swivelling around every few seconds to listen in on Kurama to ensure the younger was alright. Hiei couldn’t resist, his hand shot out and his fingers gently caressed the soft twitching appendages on top of Youko’s head. The silver creature then leaned into the touch purring.
“They are so soft.” Hiei said softly before he pulled away and grinned at the fox. “Now Youko, I do believe you owe me an apology.” Hiei smirked and Youko smiled before leaning in and barely brushing Hiei’s lips with his own.
“Sorry.” The kitsune whispered against his lips before leaning flush against the smaller demon. His larger body forcing Hiei to lay against the couch, as Youko straddled his slim waist before licking at his lips. Hiei moaned lightly as Youko entered his mouth and nipped at his tongue before exploring.
The two stayed like that until the need for air forced their lips to part. Hiei smiled at the kitsune, who was now nuzzled into his neck, glancing to the doorway when he felt Kurama’s presence joined them in the room. Youko pulled back from Hiei’s neck, but kept his position straddling the smaller demons hips. His tail wagged against Hiei’s legs at the site of the food Kurama carried into the room. The redhead lay out breakfast before he lifted Hiei’s upper body and sat down, relaying the shorter in his lap. Youko leaned towards the food – without letting Hiei move from his position, pinned under the fox and lying in Kurama’s lap – and grabbed something for himself to start with. Kurama also got something for himself as well as something for Hiei. The three then ate in comfortable silence, both Youko and Kurama taking turns to feed the trapped Hiei aswell as themselves.