Adult-FanFiction.org : YuYu Hakusho

MISSING YOU	By : ShioriFoxiesMom Category: Yuyu Hakusho > Yaoi - Male/Male > Hiei/Kurama Views: 5087 -:- Recommendations : 1 -:- Currently Reading : 0
Disclaimer: I do not own YuYu Hakusho & make no profit from this story. Yu Yu Hakusho and it's characters are property of Yoshihiro Togashi, Fugi TV, Shueisha, Jump Comics and Studio Pierrot. The only thing I own is a love for Yu Yu Hakusho and it's

Chapter List
- 3
- 4
- 5
Okay everyone, you�ll get a few questions answered in this chapter. I know the Yusuke/Yukina and Kuwabara/Keiko pairings are odd, but I hope I make the explanation believable. Now that I�ve written them this way, I kind of like it. This was supposed to be two chapter, but when it wrote itself so easily I decided to give you one big chapter in stead.
The story is progressing rather well, so I don�t think this is going to be very long. Besides, I have a pretty clear idea of what�s going to happen, and it shouldn�t take long to get there, but it�s not over yet.
Keep sending those great reviews. I just love them, thank you. Enjoy.

MISSING YOU

Chapter 4

Knowing how much Hiei would have hated being cooped up, Kurama let him lead the way. The moment they stepped through the portal into Makai, Hiei broke into a run. Though he lacked his demonic speed as he, Hiei didn�t lack for stamina. After an initial sprint, Hiei set a steady pace which Kurama had no problem matching. It wasn�t until hours later that Kurama finally convinced the fire demon to stop and rest. �What�s the matter Fox? Has living as a ningen all this time made you soft?�
Not wanting to insult Hiei by saying it was him he was worried about, Kurama chuckled as he sat down on an old fallen tree trunk. �Perhaps so Hiei. Now come have a seat and drink some water before we continue.�
Reluctantly taking the bottle of water Kurama offered, Hiei moved away to sit beneath a tree. His actions let Kurama know he didn�t want to talk. After only a few minutes, Hiei tossed the empty bottle back to Kurama and took off. Shaking his head, Kurama followed.
Running beside his old partner, Kurama could tell Yukina was right, Hiei needed this. The fire demon would be angry though if he knew that Kurama had used his plants to deter several demons that intended to cause trouble. He�d also flared his powerful energy to scare off a few others that were about to wander across their path. Now, as the sun began to set, Kurama began looking for a place to camp.
Suddenly recognizing the area, Kurama smirked. �Hiei, we need to head towards those trees, so we have some cover for the night.�
Finding nothing odd in Kurama�s suggestion, Hiei headed for the trees. It was just before nightfall when Kurama seemed satisfied with their camp site. �Hiei, will you make a fire while I find us something to eat?�
Seeing Hiei look confused, Kurama remembered that the fire demon couldn�t produce fire. When Kurama reached into his backpack and tossed a small box at him, Hiei frowned. �What the hell am I supposed to do with this?�
Patiently, Kurama took the box and slid it open. Inside were small red tipped sticks. Without saying a word, Kurama demonstrated how to strike the red tip on the side of the box to make the tip ignite. �It�s called a match Hiei. You can use them to light the fire. It makes sense that a fire demon would have no reason to know how to use them. There are some rocks over there that look like they�ve been used for a campfire before. I�ll be right back.�
Leaving Hiei to experiment with his newfound knowledge, Kurama went hunting. When he returned, Hiei seemed pleased with his blazing fire. Kurama didn�t fail to notice that his matches were not returned to him. When Hiei saw the plump bird that Kurama held, he took it from the redhead.
As Hiei skillfully plucked and gutted the bird, Kurama arranged several large rocks at one end of the campfire. Just as he finished, Hiei brought him the bird, skewered on his katana. Carefully, Kurama wrapped the exposed ends of the katana in large rubbery leaves to protect it. Kurama then set the makeshift spit on the rocks and began seasoning the bird with the juice from various fruits. As he worked, Kurama smiled when Hiei snatched one of the pear-like fruits for himself.
After turning the bird to make sure it was cooking evenly, Kurama rose and looked at Hiei. �Can you watch that for a while? I�d like to look around.�
Taking Hiei�s grunted �Hn� as a yes, Kurama walked away. By the time he returned, the bird looked about done. �Mmm, that smells good.�
Handling the bird with more of the large rubbery leaves, Kurama served Hiei the larger half, before sitting on a nearby rock to eat his share. Kurama smiled at greedy way Hiei ate. �Either you were hungry, or you really like that bird.�
As he licked his fingers, Hiei considered not answering. When he finished he sighed. �Yukina cooks mostly ningen food in a ningen kitchen. Nothing tastes better than fresh caught Makai meat cooked over an open flame.�
Tossing the carcass he had picked clean into the fire, Kurama smiled. �You�ll never hear a fox argue with that statement Hiei. I�m glad you liked it.�
In the awkward silence that followed, Hiei picked up his katana and began polishing it. Hating the silence, Kurama finally sighed. �Hiei, why don�t you tell me how Yukina ended up with Yusuke instead of Kuwabara?�
Seeing this as a safe topic, Hiei shrugged. �You know the detective and that woman were planning to marry when he got back from Makai. According to Yusuke though, she felt more like a sister than a girlfriend. Then the Oaf and that woman both began studying to be teachers. That left Yukina alone at the temple, especially after Genkai�s death. So Yusuke began spending more time there helping her with the immigrating demons.�
Kurama smiled. �Since Yusuke and Kuwabara are such good friends, neither thought anything about the other spending time with his woman. By the way Hiei, her name is Keiko.�
Rolling his eyes, Hiei shrugged. �Then Yusuke started making trips to Tourin, and Yukina asked him to escort her home to visit her friends. By the time that Oaf got around to asking Yukina to marry him, she�d already fallen in love with Yusuke, and turned the Oaf down. Then Keiko broke up with Yusuke, telling him they both had feelings for someone else.�
Happy to be having a normal conversation with Hiei, Kurama laughed. �It sounds like the girls at least knew what they wanted. What happened next?�
At that question, Hiei frowned. �Yusuke showed up at Alaric with Yukina. She must have known that Yusuke knew who her brother was, because she refused to mate with him until he had asked her brother�s permission. We ended up in a big fight over it. Of course Yukina figured out that�s what the fight was about, so my secret was out.�
Seeing Hiei�s expression soften, Kurama smiled. �I�m happy for you Hiei. I always knew she would love you, no matter what.�
Looking at him, Hiei frowned. �Kurama, you haven�t talked to anyone in almost three years. How did you know Yukina married Yusuke and that she knew about me being her brother?�
Kurama grinned. �It was on their wedding invitation Hiei. I�ll admit the first thing I did a double take on was which bride was marrying which groom. Then I nearly fainted when I saw that Yukina�s maiden name was Jagonshi. I�ll bet she was so happy to have you walk her down the isle at her wedding.�
Lowering his eyes, Hiei murmured. �I didn�t go to the wedding Fox. After getting my approval, Yusuke marked and claimed Yukina while they were still in Makai. That wedding was just a human formality. I don�t understand why you wouldn�t go though.�
Remembering his conflict after receiving his invitation to the double Urameshi/Kuwabara wedding, Kurama looked at Hiei sadly. �I wanted to go Hiei, but I thought you would be there. I missed you so much and I wanted to see you so bad, but I was afraid I wouldn�t be able to walk away if I saw you again. I was afraid you hated me and didn�t want to see me. Most of all, I was afraid you didn�t care one way or the other.�
Admitting, even if only to himself, that he�d stayed away for the same reasons, Hiei looked away. �I guess we both let them down then.�
Putting his katana away, Hiei stood up. �We�d better get some sleep. I�ll keep the first watch.�
As Hiei looked for a tree he would be able to climb, Kurama began kicking out the fire. �That won�t be necessary Hiei. I have a safe place for us to sleep.�
Hiding his smile at Hiei�s frown, Kurama waited for him to follow before leading them a short way through the trees. Though Hiei couldn�t feel it, Kurama must have used his energy, because at the base of a large tree a group of vines parted and light suddenly appeared from a hole in the ground. Realizing what he was seeing, Hiei growled. �There is no way in hell I�m going with you into one of the Youko�s dens!�
Calmly, Kurama looked at him. �I thought you�d say that Hiei, but I�m afraid I must insist. It is too dangerous for you to sleep out in the open, even if it is up in a tree.�
When Hiei turned to run, he suddenly found himself grabbed around the waist. With very little effort, Kurama carried the kicking and growling fire demon into his den. Only when he saw the vines seal shut over the entrance was Hiei released. �Don�t bother using your katana on them Hiei, you can�t harm them.�
Ignoring Kurama�s warning, Hiei drew his sword and tried hacking at the vines. He suddenly stopped when he heard Kurama gasp. With his heart pounding, Hiei remembered that Kurama was linked to any plant he was controlling. Quickly turning, Hiei saw Kurama�s arms crossed protectively over his chest, but thankfully there was no blood and visible no wound. When green eyes turned to him, Hiei was unable to meet his gaze. �Try if you must Hiei, but I will not release you.�
Angrily, Hiei sheathed his katana and tossed it aside. �Stupid Fox!�
Looking around the den, Hiei saw that though it was only one room, it was rather large. It held several chests, probably loaded with treasures. It had a small table with two chairs as well as a dresser. The main piece of furniture however was a very large bed. As Hiei tried to decide what part of the floor he would sleep on, Kurama chuckled. �You might as well make yourself comfortable in the bed Hiei. The moment you fall asleep, I�ll carry you there anyway.�
Glaring at the redhead, Hiei weighed his options. He was trapped in the Youko�s den without his demon energy, his jagon or his dragon. Unless he was willing to use his katana and fight the fox, a fight he would probably lose, he had few options. With a growl, Hiei took off his cloak and tossed it aside. Then he kicked his boots off and crawled in the bed fully clothed. Pulling the covers around him, Hiei turned his back on Kurama.
Breathing a sigh of relief, Kurama removed his coat and laid it over one of the chairs. Picking Hiei�s cloak up he laid it over the other chair. Toeing off his shoes, Kurama sat down on the opposite side of the bed. Laying on his back, Kurama stared at the ceiling for several minutes before dimming the lamp weed, to light the den with nothing more than a soft glow. Without turning, Kurama whispered. �Goodnight Hiei.�
�Hn� was the only reply he received. An hour later, Kurama still stared at the ceiling, unable to sleep. With a sigh he turned on his side to watch Hiei sleep. More than anything, Kurama wanted to reach out and draw Hiei into his arms. He knew however that would destroy the fragile trust he was trying to build.
Hearing Hiei�s even breathing, Kurama knew he was asleep and smiled. No matter how strong Hiei was, without his powers, the pace they had set today would be exhausting to anyone. Unable to resist, Kurama reached out and laid his hand on Hiei�s back. Almost instantly, Hiei murmured in his sleep. Smiling, Kurama allowed his fingers to gently rub Hiei�s back.
Several minutes passed before Kurama forced himself to withdraw his hand. Hiei murmured again, only this time he turned, seeking the lost touch. Kurama couldn�t move away, even if he�d wanted to, because he suddenly found Hiei snuggled against his chest. Closing his eyes, Kurama buried his nose in Hiei�s hair. Of their own accord, his arms crept out to pull Hiei closer. With a sigh that held both agony and contentment, Kurama whispered sadly. �I miss you so much my precious Dragon.�
Drifting off to sleep, Kurama didn�t hear Hiei waken with a little gasp. Refusing to decide whether he was unable or unwilling to move, Hiei lay quietly in Kurama�s arms. Breathing in the sweet scent of his fox, Hiei sighed. Wishing this moment would never end, Hiei fought sleep as long as he could. In the end he lost the battle and spent the night nestled in Kurama�s arms.
XXXXX
Through his plants, Kurama gradually became aware of the singing birds and the rising sun. Looking down at the fire demon in his arms, Kurama wished he didn�t have to move. Turning his head, Kurama gently kissed Hiei�s temple. Holding him for one more moment, Kurama finally forced himself to let go. Rising from the bed, Kurama stepped into his shoes and quickly left the den.
After feeling the tender kiss, Hiei had remained still, waiting to see what Kurama would do. Disappointed, he opened his eyes in time to see the redhead leave the den. Taking his time, Hiei rose, put on his boots and cloak, then looked for his katana. When he came out of the den Kurama was gone. It was almost twenty minutes before Kurama returned. �I hope fruit is alright for breakfast Hiei. Since it travels well, we can be on our way.�
After Hiei picked the pieces he wanted, Kurama put the rest of the fruit in his backpack. As Hiei ate Kurama went back to the den. Several minutes passed before Kurama emerged wearing his coat. After sealing the entrance, Kurama picked up his backpack. �Lead the way Hiei.�
By midday they had reached the swamp. Digging in his bag, Kurama gave Hiei the rest of the fruit. Making himself comfortable in a nearby tree, Hiei watched as Kurama began gathering plant, insect and water samples. Before he finished though, the blue water nymph Hiei had described made an appearance. Dropping the last of the fruit, Hiei�s hand moved to his katana as Kurama spoke to the nymph.
For the next hour Hiei watched as Kurama questioned the nymph about the various plants and bugs that inhabited his swamp. At the end of their conversation, Kurama went to his backpack and withdrew something. Going back to the nymph, Kurama gave him a jewel incrusted bracelet. The nymph was thrilled with his gift and offered Kurama any assistance he needed. Thanking the nymph, Kurama packed the samples in his backpack and returned to Hiei.
When Kurama looked up at him and smiled, Hiei�s breath caught in his throat at the beautiful sight. �Hiei, is there any place else we should go before we head back?�
Jumping from the tree, Hiei shook his head. �If we head south, we can spend the night at Alaric. That should put us back at temple by tomorrow afternoon.�
Not wanting his time with Hiei to end, Kurama nodded. �That�s a good idea Hiei. That will give me a chance to talk to Mukuro�s healers about your initial symptoms and their findings.�
Since he had rested while Kurama scoured the swamp, Hiei set a brutal pace to Alaric. The moment they arrived, Hiei�s demeanor changed. Squaring his shoulders and raising his head, Kurama thought he looked taller as he addressed a guard in the main hall. �Inform Lady Mukuro that I wish to see her immediately.�
Kurama was also surprised at the authority in Hiei�s deep voice. As the guard saluted, then went running, Hiei turned to one of the servants. �Inform cook that we have a guest for dinner and to prepare something with rabbit.�
The servant bowed then she too went running to do Hiei�s bidding. A moment later the guard returned. �Lady Mukuro awaits you in her office.�
With another salute, the guard returned to his post. Signaling for Kurama to follow, Hiei led them down a long corridor. Without knocking, Hiei pushed open a large door. Behind a rather ghoulish looking desk sat Mukuro. �If you�re back Hiei, it had better mean that you are cured.�
Rolling his eyes at her, Hiei flopped down in a chair before her desk. �Unfortunately no Mukuro, but Kurama�s working on it. Sit down Fox.�
Glancing to make sure Mukuro didn�t object to Hiei�s order, Kurama took the chair next to him. Mukuro seemed to be looking for something as she eyed each demon. �So Kurama, have you figured out what�s wrong with my heir?�
Shaking his head, Kurama sighed. �It�s more like I know a thousand things that are not wrong with him. If you�ll allow it, I�d like to talk to anyone who examined Hiei when he first started showing symptoms.�
Nodding, Mukuro pushed a button on her desk. A moment later one of the guards knocked then entered the office. Mukuro gave him several names and told him to have them brought to Hiei�s office. She then told him they were to cooperate with anything Kurama wanted. When the guard left, Mukuro looked at Kurama. �Hiei�s office is the one across the hall. Let me know if there�s anything else you need.�
Thanking her, Kurama rose to leave. When Hiei started to follow suit, Mukuro stopped him. �Not you Hiei. We have business to discuss.�
Mukuro didn�t miss the look that passed between them at the thought of being separated. After a moment, Kurama turned and left. When the door was closed, Mukuro smirked. �So Hiei, how are things going with your fox? Did absence truly make the heart grow fonder?�
Glaring at her, Hiei growled. �He took a human mate Mukuro! I don�t mean anything to him!�
Knowing how much that would have hurt him, Mukuro sighed. �I�m sorry Hiei, that must have hurt. I know you�ve been waiting for his return.�
Standing, Hiei went to the window so she wouldn�t see just how much Kurama�s marriage had hurt him. �It just proves what I�ve always known. That emotions are a useless waste of time.�
XXXXX
Later that night, Kurama stood alone in the bedroom he had been shown to after dinner. There was no way he could sleep as his mind processed the information given to him by Mukuro�s healers and scientists. Something had to be draining Hiei�s powers, but what was it? If what they said was true, if the source wasn�t found, it could eventually kill Hiei.
Looking at the bed and knowing he wouldn�t be using it anyway, Kurama turned and left the room. Making his way down the dimly lit corridor, Kurama easily found Hiei�s private suite. As he had done three years before, Kurama picked the lock and made his way past the wards and traps at Hiei�s door. Slipping into the dark room, Kurama paused for a moment to let his eyes adjust.
After a moment he could make out Hiei�s form on the bed. Quietly making his way across the room, Kurama gently sat on the side of the bed. Wishing he could turn the light on to watch Hiei sleep, Kurama almost jumped when the form on the bed spoke. �What the hell are you doing here Kurama?�
His wish was granted when Hiei reached for the light by the bed. Kurama blinked as his eyes adjusted to the light. Hiei was laying on top of the covers, dressed in just his pants. �I�m sorry Hiei. I just��
Glaring at him, Hiei growled. �If you think you�re going to make me your whore while you�re mated to that human, I might have to kill you.�
Sadly, Kurama shook his head. �I would never dishonor you like that Hiei, any more than I would be unfaithful to her. I just wanted to be near you. I was just hoping to hold you for a little while. Please Dragon, don�t push me away.�
Hiei�s heart ached at the plea in Kurama�s voice. When Kurama leaned closer, Hiei was powerless to resist. A moment later, Kurama was laying beside him on the bed, gathering him close. Kurama didn�t relax though as Hiei lay stiff in his arms. Only when Hiei sighed and tentatively returned the embrace did Kurama relax and hold him tighter. �Thank you Dragon. Gods when this is over, how am I ever going to live without you?�
Feeling Kurama�s hands tremble as he stroked his hair and back, Hiei wondered the same thing. Wrapped in each others arms, it was a long time before either of them slept.
XXXXX
Waking in the morning, Hiei didn�t have to open his eyes to know he was alone. Several minutes passed before he huffed and rose from the bed. Going to his dresser he was about to take out clean clothes when he stopped. Leaning down pulled a small box out of the bottom drawer. Hesitating a moment, Hiei finally opened the lid and drew out the rosebud Kurama had left him three years ago. It was still as beautiful and fragrant as the first time he�d seen it.
Closing his eyes against the painful image of Kurama with his human mate, Hiei viciously threw the rose, smashing it into the mirror in front of him. Gripping the edge of the dresser, Hiei drew several deep breaths before opening his eyes to look down at the rose. The bud�s petals were now open and bruised. When something from between the petals sparkled, Hiei leaned closer and gasped. Gently picking the rose up, Hiei cradled it in his hand as he examined the tear gem at it�s core.
Confused, Hiei reached back in the box and withdrew the letter Kurama left with the rose. Though he had committed it to memory the moment he read it, he couldn�t resist reading it again now.

My Precious Dragon,
There are no words to describe what last night meant to me. To hold you, kiss you and make love to you has been my fondest wish for as long as I can remember. Whether we have only that one special night, or somehow, someday have the rest of eternity together, last night will forever be the most precious memory I will ever have.
I love you Hiei. I couldn�t say that to you last night, because if I did, I might not have been able to let you go. For the time being, we are destined to walk separate paths in life. Because of that, I will not ask you to wait for me. If you should find someone who loves you and you can love, someone who can make you happy and take away your loneliness, I want you to hold on to that someone with both hands Hiei, and never let go.
As for me, though I cannot promise I will not give in to my mother�s desire for me to have a human family, you will always be the one that holds my heart. When my human life is over, I pray that our paths will cross once again. For if they do, and you are free to love me as much as I love you, I intend to hold on to you with both hands and never let you go.
The rose I am leaving you is very special Hiei. It�s bud will forever be beautiful and fragrant, for it is fed by my love for you. At it�s core it holds my heart, just as you do my precious Dragon.
As I watch you sleeping, my heart is breaking, because in a moment I will kiss you goodbye, possibly forever. Please Hiei, stay safe, be happy and know that wherever you go, what ever you do, you take my love with you, and I will miss you always.
Forever your loving fox,
Kurama

Dropping the letter, Hiei placed his other hand gently over the rose. Closing his eyes, Hiei concentrated every little bit of energy he had on the rose. Afraid that he wouldn�t have enough energy, Hiei fell to his knees and tried harder. After a moment, Hiei opened his eyes and nervously removed one of his hands. Laying in his palm, the rose was as beautiful as the day Kurama had given it to him.
Sighing with relief, Hiei brought the rose to his nose. Closing his eyes, he breathed in the sweet scent that would always be Kurama�s. Feeling like a sentimental fool, Hiei stood and carefully placed Kurama�s letter and rose back in the box, before returning the box to it�s place in his bottom drawer. Annoyed, Hiei took out clean socks and underwear, then headed for the shower.
XXXXX
Neither demon spoke much at breakfast or on their trip back to the Ningenkai. When Hiei didn�t argue about stopping to rest for the third time, Kurama began to wonder if the trip had been too much for him. Since they were only about an hour from the temple, and Kurama was afraid Hiei wouldn�t let him touch him anyway, he decided to wait and have Yukina check him when they got back.
As if by unspoken agreement, their break lasted only ten minutes, then they were off again. They were nearly to the portal, when Kurama felt uneasy. A few minutes later he knew why. What felt like three A-class demons accompanied by several lower level demons were shadowing them. Knowing the portal was near, Kurama increased his speed, hoping that Hiei could match him and they could get away without a fight.
They hadn�t gone far before Hiei commented. �I may not be able to sense them Kurama, but I know you. What�s out there?�
Glancing at his longtime partner, Kurama knew he shouldn�t have tried to fool him. �I can�t tell how many Hiei. At least three A-class and several lower level demons. They must have noticed we increased speed because they�re about to attack. I�m sorry Dragon.�
Hiei smirked. �This is what I live for Fox. Now let�s stop running and show them who they�re dealing with.�
When Hiei stopped and drew his katana, Kurama�s heart nearly stopped. Hiei had never fought an enemy without his powers before. Drawing his weapon, Kurama took his place at Hiei�s back. As the demons drew near, Kurama whispered. �I love you Hiei.�
Unable to sense the demons approaching them, Hiei felt a moment of fear. Not since he was a child had he been so weak. Then Kurama�s whispered �I love you Hiei� suddenly gave him the strength and courage to fight.
As the demon�s surrounded them, Kurama felt them separate into three groups. Two or three lower level demons moved ahead of the three stronger demons. Using what plants were available to him, Kurama began taking out the weaker demons. Hiei�s head spun around at a sudden gasp from his left. A moment later a demon staggered forward then fell dead a few feet away. It had been strangled by a vine.
A cry of pain drew Hiei�s gaze to his right and he saw another demon fall. With every heartbeat, his blood was being pumped through the bamboo shoot piercing his heart. Within seconds, he was dead. By now weaker demons were screaming and running for their lives. Hiei hadn�t even started to fight and there were six dead bodies around him, laying in pools of blood.
At the sound of Kurama�s whip whizzing over his head, Hiei turned to see two more demons sliced to pieces. �Damn it Fox, did you leave any for me?�
Only someone who knew him as well as Hiei did could hear the tension in Kurama�s laugh. �I�m afraid so Dragon. The three A-class and one or two others are left.�
Frustrated with the slaughter of their comrades, the remaining demons attacked. Though Hiei seemed to be holding his own, Kurama did his best to keep the fire demon�s opponents to a minimum. Hiei had taken out one of the weaker demons and was now concentrating on one of the A-class. Just as Kurama killed one of the two A-class he was fighting, he caught the scent of Hiei�s blood.
Enraged, Kurama�s energy spiked, and in a swirl of smoke, he transformed to his Youko form. Feeling the Youko�s S-class power, the demon before him stumbled back. He wasn�t the one who had to worry however. Seeing Hiei on the ground with blood streaming down his face, Kurama directed his attack at the demon that had hurt his Dragon. Before he could defend himself the demon�s throat was ripped out by Kurama�s bare hand.
When Kurama turned back to the last remaining demon, he was suddenly struck on the back of his right shoulder by the blade of one of the weaker demons. Turning, Kurama saw a look of terror in the demon�s eyes. Looking down, he saw Hiei�s katana protruding from his chest.
Not bothering with they dying demon, Kurama began advancing on the last remaining A-class demon. Seeing the carnage around him, the demon began to retreat. �I don�t care how much that bitch is willing to pay for the fire demon, it�s not worth dying for.�
When the demon turned to flee, Kurama reached into his hair and withdrew a rose. Aiming the stem at the demon�s retreating form, he threw the rose. It sailed like a dart, straight into the back of the demon�s neck. As he fell, Kurama had no doubt that he was at least paralyzed, if not already dead.
Dropping to his knees beside Hiei, Kurama grabbed the fire demon�s hands as he tried to wipe the blood from his eyes. �Hiei no! Let me see how bad that wound is.�
Snatching Hiei�s scarf from around his neck, Kurama dabbed at the blood. Seeing the wound over his left eye, Kurama cringed. �Hiei, I can�t tell if your eye is injured. I�m going to try and stop the bleeding, then wrap your scarf around it until I can get you to the temple.�
Though Hiei had always been able to feel pain, he was used to his demon energy dulling it�s severity as it began healing his wounds. Now, without his energy, he was acutely aware of the sharp pain in his head, and that his body wasn�t able to assist in it�s healing. After a moment, Hiei could tell that Kurama must have at least been able to stop the bleeding, because the sharp pain became a dull throb as his head was bandaged. �Sorry Dragon, to wrap the wound properly, I have to cover both eyes with the scarf.�
Knowing Kurama would take care of him, Hiei grunted. �Just do it Fox.�
A moment later, Hiei felt himself gently lifted in the Youko�s strong arms. Seeking stability, Hiei wrapped his arms around the Kurama as he began to run. With one hand Hiei felt the strap of the backpack over Kurama�s left shoulder. With the other he suddenly realized his fingers were damp. Bringing them to his nose Hiei gasped. �Kurama, you�re bleeding.�
Shaking his head, Kurama didn�t slow his pace. �It�s nothing Hiei. I�m going to open the barrier now. We�ll be at the temple soon.�
Though Hiei couldn�t feel the change in energy as Kurama jumped through the portal into the Ningenkai, he could smell the difference in the air. Knowing they would be at the temple any minute, Hiei laid his head on Kurama uninjured shoulder and savored his last few moments in his fox�s arms.
Hiei knew the moment the temple was in sight because he heard his sister cry out for Yusuke. Within moments Kurama was sprinting up the porch steps and carrying Hiei to his bedroom. As he was laid on the bed, Hiei felt Kurama�s lips brush his cheek. Reluctantly, Hiei released him and a moment later felt Yukina removing the scarf from his head. �This doesn�t look too bad Hiei. I was scared though when I saw all that blood.�
Worried about Kurama, Hiei grabbed her arm. �It�s not all mine Yukina. Kurama�s hurt too.�
Yukina�s voice was soft as she cleaned him up and began healing his wound. �I�ll see to him in just a minute Hiei, I promise.�
Wanting to reassure Hiei, Kurama sat on the other side of the bed and took his hand. �I�m fine Hiei. It�s just a flesh wound.�
When Kurama raised his energy with the intent to change back to his human form, Yukina turned and growled at him. �Don�t you dare Kurama! I�m healing that wound before you change back.�
When Kurama�s brow rose in surprise at the order, Yusuke laughed. �Everyone thinks I�m married to this sweet, innocent little maiden. Little do they know there�s a fiery little demoness inside.�
Kurama smirked. �Much to your delight, I�m sure.�
Yusuke�s voice deepened as he gave his wife a smoldering look. �You have no idea Kurama.�
Kurama could smell their arousal as Yukina�s body flushed in response to her mate. �That might explain why late at night Hiei likes to train in the forest.�
With Hiei healed and his eyes washed, he saw his sister flush. �That�s my sister you perverts are talking about!�
When Kurama tilted his head and smiled, Yukina frowned. For some reason, Kurama was keeping his hair fanned over his wounded shoulder. Thinking he must be hurt worse than he wanted Hiei to see, Yukina looked at her brother. �Hiei, I�m going to take Kurama in the other room to heal him while you get showered and changed.�
Squeezing Hiei�s hand, Kurama smiled at him. �I wouldn�t argue with her if I were you Dragon. I hear there�s a fiery little demoness in there.�
Laughing at his playfulness, Yukina ushered Kurama from the room. As she did she noticed he was careful to keep Hiei from seeing his right shoulder. When they reached the kitchen, Yukina turned on him. �Alright Kurama, let�s see what you�re hiding there.�
Trying to stare her down, Kurama didn�t move. �I said I was fine Yukina. I�m just going to go use the other bathroom to clean up.�
When he would have turned away, Yusuke grabbed his arm and forced him into a chair. �Yukina�s in charge here Kurama, not you.�
When Yukina reached out to pull back his hair, Kurama tried to use his hand to cover the dragon tattoo on his arm. He knew his hand wasn�t big enough though when Yukina gasped. Reluctantly, Kurama allowed her to pry his hand away. �Kurama�?�
Glaring at her, Kurama growled. �It�s none of your business Yukina. Just heal the wound.�
Moving to see why the Youko was growling at his wife, Yusuke�s mouth dropped open at the sight of the dragon tattoo on his bicep. Before Yusuke could question him, Kurama growled again. �If either of you say one word to him, you won�t live to regret it.�
Silently examining the wound on the back of his shoulder, Yukina realized it wasn�t bad. A few moments later she stepped back. �You can go get cleaned up now Kurama.�
Without looking at either of them, Kurama rose and walked away. When Yusuke turned to Yukina, she held up her hand. �Hiei�s coming. We�ll talk about it later.�
Half an hour later, a meticulously dressed and groomed redhead reentered the kitchen. Hiei was seated at the table with a plate of food before him. Seeing that Yukina intended to serve him as well, Kurama held up his hand. �Thank you Yukina, but I�m not hungry. I�m just going to get started on the samples I collected.�
Stopping suddenly, Kurama looked at Hiei and frowned. �Hiei, did you hear what that demon�?�
Before he could finish Kurama�s cell phone rang. As he pulled it from his pocket, Kurama went into the other room to answer it. Knowing it was one of the two women that kept Kurama from him, Hiei lost his apatite. Though he couldn�t hear Kurama�s words, Hiei could tell from his tone that something had upset him.
A few minutes later, Kurama looked worried when he came back in the room. �I have to go. Maya�s not feeling well and my mother is taking her to the hospital.�
Concerned, Yusuke jumped up. �Do you want me to drive you?�
Kurama shook his head. �Thank you Yusuke, but I have my car.�
Looking at Hiei, Kurama sighed. �Hiei, I��
Not wanting Kurama to see the hurt in his eyes, Hiei looked away. �You belong with your mate Kurama.�
Pushing his plate away, Hiei rose and left the room. Masking his expression, Kurama picked up the backpack. �I�ll run these in my lab the first chance I get. I�ll talk to you later.�
Without looking back, Kurama left the temple. Looking at Yukina, Yusuke sighed. �Whatever is going on between them, isn�t one sided.�
XXXXX
Later that night, when Yukina entered their bedroom, she found Yusuke sitting naked on the bed. Giving him a sad smile she sighed. �I hope Hiei and Kurama are going to be alright.�
When Yusuke held his arms out, Yukina crawled over his lap. �Honey, we don�t even know what�s going on. Why do you think Kurama has a tattoo just like Hiei�s?�
Pushing the kimono off her shoulders, Yusuke cupped her breasts and ran his thumbs over her nipples. When Yukina gave a throaty moan and had trouble answering, Yusuke moved his hands down to her waist. Remembering that he was still learning about demon customs, Yukina tried to explain. �I don�t know if you�ve realized this, but unlike humans, very few demons mark their bodies with tattoos. The ones that do are usually S-class or above. Let me see your tattoos and I�ll try to explain.�
His hair grew long and his tattoos appeared as Yusuke changed to his demon form. Hearing her little growl of appreciation, Yusuke looked down at his wife and smirked. �Admit it Kina, you don�t just want to see my tattoos, you just want to be ravished tonight.�
Ruby eyes sparkled as her fingers traced the tattoos on his chest. �That may be true Lover, but that�s your reward at the end of the lesson. Demon�s with tattoos like yours inherit them from their ancestors. The tattoos remain dormant until the demon attains a power level that equals or exceeds that of their ancestor�s.�
Yusuke grinned at how cute Yukina looked. �I�ll guarantee that Hiei�s dragon isn�t from a Koorime ancestor.�
Yukina giggled. �No, it�s not, but tattoos like Hiei�s dragon also symbolize attaining a certain level of power. In Hiei�s case it symbolizes his mastering the dragon.�
Reaching for the tie that still held her kimono, Yusuke frowned. �Neither of those apply to Kurama though.�
When Yukina�s expression turned serious, Yusuke�s wandering hands stopped. �No they don�t Yusuke. The only other mark a demon willingly allows on his body is given to them by his mate. Usually they are like ours, where each demon marks the other as theirs. In rare instances however, they can be in the form of a tattoo. A demon will use a tattoo as a way to declare that they belong to another demon, even if that demon is not their mate.�
Leaning back against the headboard, Yusuke�s frown deepened. �Do you mean Kurama considers himself to be Hiei�s mate even though Hiei hasn�t marked him?�
Yukina nodded. �That�s exactly what I mean. The tattoo in some way represents the demon he desires as his mate. In Kurama�s case he marked himself with Hiei�s dragon. Kurama even calls him Dragon. Did you see the scratches running through Kurama�s dragon? As you well know, demons often scratch each other in the heat of passion.�

Confused, Yusuke sighed. �With the use of his plants, Kurama heals faster than most demons. Why would those scratches have scared?�
Pulling her kimono the rest of the way off, Yukina lay naked against Yusuke�s chest. �He must have used one of his plants to stop them from healing. By tattooing the dragon over them, he�s saying they are not just any demon�s mark, but Hiei�s mark. I don�t think Hiei knows about the dragon though. Kurama was using his hair to hide it, not his wound.�
Suddenly Yusuke growled. �Damn it, if he considers himself to be Hiei�s mate, then what the hell is he doing married to Maya and having a baby?�
Shaking her head, Yukina shrugged. �That�s the part I don�t understand. A demon who goes to those extremes to mark himself, even if he�s rejected by his chosen mate, would rather die before taking another lover or mate.�
With a sigh, Yusuke rubbed Yukina�s back. �If they were lovers, and Kurama left him to marry someone else, that might explain why Hiei�s been so bitchy with him. I wish I knew what to do to help them.�
Nuzzling his neck, Yukina murmured. �I guess all we can do is wait, and be there if they need us.�
Cupping Yukina�s bare behind, Yusuke nipped at her shoulder. �Enough about them, right now it�s me that needs to ravish a certain fiery little demoness.�
As Yukina giggle floated through the temple, Hiei took the sword Kurama gave him and slipped through the window into the night.
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