Dangerous Beauty
We Are Fighting--Don't Stop
Author's Note: Okay...you wanted a sequel, here you go. >3 Sorry for the
lack of actual sex in this one, but that's what part III is for. >3
Let me explain this one. First off, it's a continuation of a fic I did for
Kagome.
Second off, huge applause to Faerie-luv, because I know what a Kenshin/Kauro
fan she is, and I respect that. For her to say what she did...it's not something
that happens--period. _^_!! And it gave me a chance to do a second part to
Dangerous Beauty, where as I had not an idea before of how to do so. We
discussed that one way to just tick EVERYONE off was go against the Touya/Jin
peeps, the Hiei/Kurama, or Kurama/Mary Sue peeps, and throw Kenshin, the
red-head, in for good measure. >3 This is the end result of that conversation
we had.
In short, you stand warned. This will have shounen-ai, and anything else that
falls in. AND it's a cross-over. Aside from that, I am aware of a little missing
canon-ness, the deal is, it always seemed odd to me Touya and Kurama stopped
their fight to converse, granted Kurama was trying to buy time. I think Touya
would have noticed it sooner. Either way, I changed that up a bit so it fight
into the timeline.
Another thing, since I do respect the Kenshin/Kaoru peeps, and I actually
like it in the manga (to me it was just a little overbearing in the anime. From
the get-go they sorta highlight it, and that gets on my nerves. The manga isn't
like that, so in the manga version, I actually like them together) I put in a
little moment at the end. ^^; I know, it's not much, but it's the most I could
do, for now. (And for the record, I adore Kaoru, I really do. I just also like
to pick on her sometimes, kinda like Yahiko. I see him and Kaoru as just having
a healthy sibling type relationship, since neither of them actually had
siblings. And Kaoru really does make a good big-sister for him. ^________^)
(And of course, the title isn't original. Since when have my titles ever
been? >D I prefer song lyrics anyhow. >D They say more than I can. >D)
Disclaimer: No...I don't own anyone from YYH, or Rurouni Kenshin, or either
show, or anything relating to any other show that may end up mentioned. I do not own Heaven, or any miscellaneous
spirits. Nor do I own the sweet little crow. That idea actually came from being
around Dina too much at the RP. I just adore Karasu as a crow, and think it's
the cutest, fluffiest thing in existence, so it stays. So no, I don't own the
idea of the crow. Nor do I really take full responsibility for the conversation in Reikai
between Kurama and Yusuke in relation to his under garments. That started in
chat with Armand, though I finished it. (Forget what else came from
chats...mostly everything. >D) In fact, I don't even own many freedoms. (DARN YOU BUSH!!!! >O)
I'm starting this year off with a bang. ^_________________^
We Are Fighting--Don't Stop
(Started: 1-12-04)
helped Koenma, it was no longer mandatory, and he strayed from visiting Heaven,
though it was hard for him to stay away. He would sometimes find himself
drifting off and looking towards the entrance to the peaceful section of Reikai,
but disciplined as always, he was composed not long after.
It was not until later, when Yusuke found himself involved in the dark
tournament, that Kurama was perked with curiosity once more.
A flash of
bright red, and large blue eyes in the form of a whirlwind of energy caught his
attention, and he smiled as he thought of someone with the same innocent eyes,
though they were a dark amethyst instead of blue. This, Jin as he was called,
was much like Yusuke, Kurama noted, and he almost enjoyed their fight, though it
was hard to find pleasure in much at the time.
He later found himself randomly thinking of the pointy-eared red-head and
wondered what it was someone as friendly as Jin was after in this tournament. It
seemed odd to Kurama that someone of his nature would associate themselves with
the people he joined up with, but Kurama would not question. However, he was
rather interested in finding Yusuke's red-head version and getting to know him a
little better, though it seemed that would not happen.
If Kurama was not investing in his techniques, or troubles, he was busy with
surprise, unwanted attacks. Until one night, instead of spending his
troubles into a card game with the group, then drifting off to sleep, Kurama hit
a fit of insomnia as he fretted over his upcoming battle with Karasu. He had
already pred fed for it as best as he could, and sleep just would not come.
To deal with his nerves, Kurama quietly left the room and started outside,
but he ran into Hiei in the halls.
"Oh, you're awake as well?"
"I don't sleep as often as the rest of you, and Kuwabara's snoring is
hard to sleep through."
Kurama stifled a chuckle, and nodded his head in agreement, using that as his
excuse for being awake as well. A bit of silence fell between them, then Hiei
cleared his throat, and looked straight ahead, refusing to look at Kurama he
said, "You've been careless in these past couple of fights."
The ease that had settled upon seeing Hiei shattered as Kurama stared at Hiei
with growing exasperation and irritation. To believe Hiei would accuse him of
that!
"Hiei-"
"Save it. I'm calling it as I see it. Maybe you should start this next
fight a little more ruthless instead of foolishly studying your opponent as you
engage in battle. You know how they fight by now, just kill them before they do
anything to you. I'm sure you have great confidence in your body, but I
don't."
Still composed outwardly, but inwardly shouting at Hiei for his interference,
Kurama stood stunned, until Hiei looked up at him, straight into his eyes and
firmly said, "Do not get yourself killed. Don't you daruot;uot;
Any fury that had been building melted away as Kurama heard Hiei say,
mentally, (Don't do that to me.)
'He's just worried,' Kurama said to himself, then he smiled for Hiei and
said, through gritted teeth, "You insult me. I can't believe you would
think I would allow that to happen."
The return look of annoyance he received from Hiei caused Kurama to whisper,
"I know, I know. I understand what you mean. And really, don't worry about
it."
"Okay.... Then there's only one other thing bothering me. I know you
won't tell me, or talk to me about anything, but," Hiei grabbed a fistful
of soft red hair, and felt disgust at himself for enjoying the satin feel at a
time like this, then firmly pulled a little as he said, "quit worrying
about the damn fight tomorrow, if you're so confi, or, or I'll pull out your
damn hair, got it?"
Hiei tried not to expect a response, for Kurama was unpredictable as it was,
but the last thing he considered Kurama to do was laugh.
Abruptly, and near worried, Hiei let go while Kurama casually bit on his
thumbnail, trying to stop, as he gently chuckled at the shorter male.
"Kurama...?"
"I'm fine...really."
"I highly doubt it. You don't laugh often...not like that, anyway."
"No, Hiei," Kurama said, finally calmed as he gave Hiei a soft
grin, "I just needed that. That's all. Thank-you."
With that, Kurama walked outside, and Hiei sighed, then retreated down the
hall, curious to see if he could sneak into the girls' room to watch over Yukina
for a bit. Though it was far more tempting to follow Kurama and make sure he was
as fine as he claimed. Hiei knew better. He had nearly insulted Kurama once
for the night, and he dared not insult him further by insinuating anything.
Kurama finally walked outside and entered a ceiling of stars, and as the cool wind rushed by him, he was reminded of another
time and place, once again. It was hard not to fall back into that era, with the
leafy canopy above him, and the soft, ethereal light of the moon casting a hazy,
opalescent aura about the plants under its caress.
Guilt passed through Kurama, only for a moment, as he looked back towards the
hotel and wondered how Hiei would feel to know what he spent his time in Reikai
on. He had an inkling Hiei would not take it quite the way Kurama would expect
of the usual demon. For one, Hiei lived by a far different code than most
because of his life, and it would possibly affect how he viewed Kurama. Yet,
Kurama doubted Hiei truly trusted him anyway, considering Kurama's past. He only
wished it was as easy as ainiaining to Hiei that he found Hiei special to him,
therefore had no plans to leave him. It was just...even though Hiei meant
something to him, Kurama still needed to explore and enjoy all that was around
him.
He thought once again of large, naive purple eyes, and that long, silky red
hair, then almost choked when he saw a fluffy bundle of red hair in his line of
sight.
'Déjà vu,' Kurama whispered to himself as his memories from his travels as
Youko Kurama faded into the mist. Carefully, he crept forward, and peered
through the bushes to see who Jin was with, and what they were doing.
Chuu, Rinku, and Touya sat with the red-head, and surrounding them were
several empty bottles--this made Kurama smile. 'Drunk...that might be easier for
me to talk with him then.' Yet, there was a slight miscalculation on Kurama's
part, for only Jin and Chuu had been drinking. u wau was considered too young by
Chuu, and Touya strayed from substances that would affect his judgment. While
Chuu and Jin did not notice Kurama's next soft footstep, Touya heard it and
perked up.
Kurama froze, uncertain of how the ice-master and Rinku would take his
approach to their group. Touya was more concerned about the visitor being a past
competitor with issues concerning their battles, but he breathed a sigh of
relief when he saw it was the red-head. He knew Kurama could be harsh, but the
fox also displayed great honour, and was hardly unjust, depending on the person,
that is. Besides Touya had no fear in Kurama,
or anyone from Urameshi's team, or anyone with Kurama's personality.
"Come forward. Don't hide there and watch. Join us," Touya said
gently, and gave Kurama a barely existent, but warm smile as Kurama blushed at
his error and left the cover of the bushes.
"You saw me...." said Kurama, then trailed off, feeling humiliation
build.nce nce when did I become so careless?'
'Does it matter? They are not foes? So why should it matter if they saw you?
You would have left the bushes eventually to speak with Jin, so what is
bothering you?'
'You are right,' Kurama said to himself, ending his internal conversation as
he sat between Jin and Rinku, and looked at the group with inquiring eyes.
With a little moment to recompose his thoughts, Kurama broke the silence and
said, "You don't mind, then?"
Touya shook his head, indicating no, then asked, "What br you you out
here?"
Casually, Kurama said, with perfect nonchalance, "I was merely taking a
walk and noticed the light coming from your fire here, and the noise was hard to
ignore."
Jin chuckled at Kurama's jest on Chuu's earlier boisterous complaints about
things from the past few days they had spent at the tournament, either involved,
or watching, and Touya smirked, silently agreeing with Kurama's words, and
understanding.
"So, you are prepared for tomorrow then?" Touya asked, still
curious about the newcomer. Kurama did not seem the type to involve himself with
groups, but to stray from them. He felt strongly that there was another reason
Kurama had gone towards the noise and light instead of away.
Still not caught off guard, Kurama wisely answered, "I'm prepared as can
be. I've seen them fight, and I know what each is capable of doing, but a fight
is not predictable. However, there is no point in worrying over it until the
actual fight begins."
"Agreed."
A sense of kinship passed through Touya at Kurama's profound outlook that
matched his own. Jin was somewhat close to it as well, but Jin just had a code
of never worrying about anything, so it did differ. It was comforting to meet
someone with such similar beliefs.
"Actually," said Kurama, surprised in himself by takihe nhe next move,
instead of his usual observation first stance, yet, it was needed if he wished
the conversation to head in the right direction and learn more about Jin; or the
others, for that matter, "I was wondering why you four were involved in
this tournament. None of you seem malevolent."
Chuu looked down at his bottle as he answered, almost somberly, "Well, I
don't know about the others, but for me...it was just the lure of a fight and a
reward at the end. I'm sure Rinku, more or less, just followed where the rest of
us wanted to go. Now it's just us two, but we don't mind."
The smallest one nodded his head, indicating this as truth, but remained
quiet. It was best to keep hero-worship unknown, after all.
On the other hand, Touya nodded to Jin, indicating it was time for the d-mad-master to speak, for the prize they had sought had been most loved by him.
"Ah.... Well, now that you asked, Kurama is it?"
"Yes.... Kurama, that is me."
"Well, now that you asked, we were fighting for the main prize so we
could be free.... In Ningenkai, with pure air, and skies that reach higher than
anything I've ever had theasurasure of being in. I was kinda hopin'.... But no
matter," saidsaid, letting the dream go. It was gone, and he knew he would
have a chance to gain it once again, so he refused to feel any sadness over the
matter. Then again, he just felt none. If one door closed, another opened, and
one day, the right would open, he was sure of that. Always had been.
Jin and Touya were surprised to see a grin grace Kurama's lips as he said,
"Is that all? Jin...I could take you there myself."
"Ah, you could?" Jin asked as he perked up and his voice filled
once again with pure mirth.
"Yes. I could. And even better, there is another place much more
beautiful to see, and I have access there as well."
Deep in his mind, a small voice said, 'What are you talking about? Koenma
won't be too happy if you go about doing stuff like this.'
'Hush. It matters little when we're far too busy at the moment to do it
anyhow. But I can handle Koenma, and Jin would love it.'
Now that he had Jin psyched, it was a matter of planning when.
They settled on a particular date, but because of later, unforeseen events,
it was put off for about another two years.
Jin had failed to remind him of his offer every chance he had, though it was not
often. Yusuke had returned to Ningenkai, and Hiei was staying in Makai
Mu
Mukuro. Nothing much was happening at the time, so it seemed the safest chance
to finally bring Jin over. They could both stay at Yusuke's house for a couple
of days, then Kurama could take Jin somewhere else.
'But first,' he thought to himself, 'I should warn him I plan to bring Jin,
and tell Koenma about it.'
The evening, he bid his mother farewell as she left to work, then played a
couple of video games with Shuichi, his step-brother, as he considered how much
he and Yusuke would get along. It would be so simple--just turn on any fighting
game and they would be just fine. After that, he gave a quick wave good-bye to
his step-father and said he would be back before morningen len left.
Kurama knew it would be a long night, but worth it.
In Koenma's office, Kurama looked around at the bustling demons, thenmarveled at Koenma as he realised the once toddler seemed to be taking his
teenage form more often, even in the Reikai office. Amused, and seeing this as
an advantage, Kurama walked forward, soft smile on his lips, and said, "Koenma-sama,
may I speak with you?"
"Ah.... Sure...." said Koenma, curious as to what Kurama was doing
in Reikai. He was no longer expected to serve the other in the office, though Kurama did return from time to time. And, while he would
*NEVER* say it, Koenma enjoyed Kurama's visits, hence why he still allowed them.
Besides, Kurama was one of the rare things in life that calmed Koenma when he
was having a rough time and randomly blowing up at everyone else. Pretty much
everyone in Reikai looked forward to a visit from the fox.
In the office, away from all prying eyes but Jorge's, which were,
thankfully, fixed to a book, Kurama got rather close to Koenma and peered up at
those lost, light, almost gold, brown eyes. He put great intensity into his own
soul windows, letting them insinuate at will. Koenma drowned in emerald.
When Kurama was sure Koenma was entranced, he gently spoke, "I was
wondering if I could do something."
"Go on," Koenma said, eyes filled only with wonder as flashes of
brilliant sanguine flickered in themerimerizing sea.
"Well, I wanted to bring a friend from Makai to see Ningenkai, and let
him visit a friend of mine in Heaven. It's Jin...would that be all right?"
"H-hai. Whatever you want, Kurama. In fact, want my title? I'll give it
to you."
Kurama's eyes widened when he realised his charm might have gone too far,
quickly, he said, "No, that's fine, Koenma-sama. You keep your position, as
it's rightfully yours. And thank-you. It'll be one week in Ningenkai, with at
least one day in Heaven," as he put a hand softly under
Koenma's chin, while Koenma nodded his head and agreed to the terms, then Kurama
left.
It took a few minutes, but once Koenma finally got over how soft Kurama's
skin felt, he snapped out of the trance and noticed, almost with a sense of
loss, that the fox was gone. Then he realised the things he had said, and
baffled, with slight anger hinting in his voice, Koenma asked, "What the
hell just happened?!"
Without even looking up from his book, Jorge said, "That's easy--the
same thing that happened when Enma-sama was handing out punishments for the
break in and thievery done here a few years back, and you got spanked while two
demons got the softest penalty ever given to their kind for such an act."
"You know what...I'm sorry I asked. Shut-up."
"Hai, Koenma-sama."
"I said shut-up!'
"Shutting-up."
"Gah!"
Jorge grinned as he continued to read. It was always fun to see Koenma riled
up little, especially when the demi-god was far too distracted to react with his
normal threats.
if it was because he enjoyed playing games with people, but if he enjoyed it so
much, he could have continued and done more damage--but Kurama did not want
that. Then he wondered, if instead, it was something else.
As he stood outside Heaven, he realised just what
it was. To see the other again, after all this time.... Three years.... He
wondered if he had changed greatly. Would he still recognise Kurama? Kurama
hoped so.
Truth be told, other than a little height and filling out some, Kurama had
changed little in appearance, but inside, he changed greatly.
gently he reached out and tapped one of them, causing it to jolt. Then it
started chasing the others, while Himura Shinta, otherwise known as Kenshin,
grinned at their game.
Sometimes he just loved to observe as they chased each other around the
fields, and at others he wanted to be right in the middle of their joy, sharing
it with them. For now, he was doing ttlettle of both, and completely unaware he
was being watched.
Until he felt it--a familiar aura, and so close. Wide eyes lifted, straight
to where Kurama stood, and Kenshin straightened up as his eyes glowed with a
positive thrill that shot through him. It had been so long, but there before him
was one person he had been hoping to see.
"Shuichi-dono?"
"Hai," was Kurama's short, yet complicated reply. With in that one
answer there were so many things said. For one, he was not dead. He wanted
Kenshin to understand that, least the once wanderer worry Kurama died too soon.
For another, he could not be long, and Kenshin understood all of this, just from
the delighted, yet grim look in ma'sma's green eyes.
The smile remained, regardless. Kenshin was just comforted by Kurama's
presence alone, and he liked knowing Kurama wot dot dead yet. He still felt the
other was far too young and should live his life. Happiness was all he ever
wished for the other red-head, no matter what form it came in.
Kurama tilted his head, and apologised to the children spirits, then said,
"Shinhan,han, walk with me. We need to talk."
"Of course we do. This one shall return to tomorrow, little ones, this
one shall."
The spirits twittered with sadness at Kenshin's passing as he left, but they
knew he would do as he said, so as soon as he was gone they went right back to
playing.
Out on the path they walked side by side, and Kurama started the
conversation with, "So, how are things with the women?"
"Ahh...they are better, that they are. Only...well, they still fight
every now and then, but it is not quit bad bad."
Kurama chuckled, then said, "You are rather popular with them, no?"
A sweat-drop formed on Kenshin's head as said, nervously, "Oh no. It's
nothing like that. After all, Megumi-dono prefers Sano-kun, she just likes to
toy with Kaoru-dono, that is all it is."
"Oh.... I see. Well, she is very successful in that," said Kurama
as he thought to himself, 'Sly fox, that one is.'
"Hai."
They walked a little further, then Kurama spoke once more, "I'm sorry,
but I can't stay too long tonight, as I have plans to put into order; however, I
wanted to know if it would bother you if I brought a friend of mine to visit up
here. He's felt caged up in a certain place for some time now, and I wanted to
treat him to something special."
"Aww, Shuichi-dono, that's sweet of you. This one hardly minds at
all--in fact, this one would like to meet a friend of Shuichi-dono's, that this
one would," said Kenshin gently as he brightly smiled at the other
red-head.
Kurama almost blushed at hearing himself referred to as sweet (especially
from Kenshin's mouth). Ruthless had followed him around for as long as he could
recall, but sweet? That was an adjective never used to describe him. Then again,
he lacked the realization that he had never asked Yusuke, Kazuma or countless
others what they thought of.&nb.
"I will do that then. It may not be until the middle of next week
though, if that is all right...."
"It is."
"Good,"ramarama said as he looked at the ground and tried to think
of something else to say, but words were lost for a moment. He turned on the
path and stopped, and curious, Kenshin stopped as well and looked up.
"Oro?"
Slowly, Kurama leaned in close, then whispered, "I think I missed
you...." as his hands softly glided onto Kenshin's shoulders, then down his
arms, pulling Kenshin close to him.
"Obviously, from how impatient you are this evening," Kenshin said
in response with a large, mischievous grin. As predicted, Kurama gave the other
a mock look of disappointment as he pushed Kenshin off the path, towards their
usual meeting place.
"You were supposed to say something similar in return, that you
were," said Kurama as he grinned.
Gladly, Kenshin placed in his round of cards by responding, "But I
refuse to play your game, Shuichi-dono."
"You're lucky I feel generous tonight, or I would give you a
penalty," Kurama breathlessly said in Kenshin's ear as he pressed the other
up against one of the favoured trees. Briefly, a dangerous grin passed over his
face, but it was quickly gone as his features softened and laughed at the silliness,
glad to find something humorous after so long.
Kenshin just leaned on Kurama's chest, eager to hear the other's heart
beating. He wanted to hear every last sound to make sure Kurama had not been pushing
himself too hard, to know that he was not stressed, or ill. He had to make sure.
Kurama just sighed and held Kenshin in return, pondering at how nice it felt to
have the other in his arms again.
Too bad he had to let him go once more, and watch as Kenshin returned to
Kaoru...and Tomoe.... Kurama felt his heart cringe at that thought, knowing how
it was to feel guilt over the death of someone you cared for. He wondered how
difficult it was for Kenshin to deal with both females as time passed.
After listening for some time, Kenshin frowned, then looked up and said,
"Shuichi-dono, your heart speaks of great stresses. You'een een pushing
yourself."
Kurama started, surprised the former rurouni could tell, and he felt a
sweat-drop form on the side of his head as he recalled all of the times he had
been pushed too hard in fights, or the time his brother was taken from him and
possessed.... That one was far beyond stressful.
"You only have one body, Shuichi-dono, and you must take care of it,
that you must," Kenshin scolded lightly as he gave Kenshin a worried gaze.
'Oh, his naiveté is adorable,' Kurama thought to himself.
"Hai. You're right, Shinta-chan.... I'll try to be a little more easy
going," was what Kurama said out loud as he held Kenshin tighter to thank
him for his concern.
Before much longer, one of his hands gently tilted Kenshin's chin up as
Kurama leaned down, and their lips met after being separated for so long, but
they welcomed each other like friends who spoke everyday.
A sudden thought forced Kurama to pull away, unwillingly, from the soft
petals caressing his tongue, but he managed and sadly said, "Gomen.... It's
already late, and I must be returning home. But," here he tilted Kenshin's
chin up once more and his thumb gently rubbed against Kenshin's slightly parted
lips, "I'll be back in a few days, I promise."
"Okay, Shuichi-dono. Just take care of yourself," Kenshin said with
another warm smile as Kurama's silky skin slipped from him and the other
red-head left Heaven's warm love inducing haze.
He felt cold as he entered Koenma's office once more, but he was able to walk
away with the reminder he would be back soon.
room while his mother peered at him from the doorway, then, lightly, began to
ask questions.
"Shui-chan...who is it you'll be staying with?"
"Oh, Yusuke, 'kaa-san, remember him?" Kurama said with a gentle
smile as he folded another pair of pants into his bag.
Shiori nodded her head, but then looked puzzled as she said, "I do
recall him, but I don't have his number, I don't think.... What if something
happens?"
"Oro?" Kurama looked up as his eyes blinked, then he left his
packing and quickly scrawled a number on a piece of paper. He handed it to
her then said, gently, "There. Now you have it, and you can reach me on my
cell phone if need be. Just use that if my cell is turned off. Though, I will
warn you, we plan to do some hiking and other things, so reaching us for a
couple of days may be difficult."
"I understand. I just wanted to make sure...."
Kurama smiled at her, warmed completely by her concern, and shook his head,
fearing she worried too much. What if she caused herself stress similar to what
Kenshin read from Kurama's strained heart? What if something happened to her
because of it?
"Okaa-san, please, don't worry so much. I've been gone for long periods
of time before."
"I know...but the plants..." Shiori said, looking sadly around his
room at Kurama's happy roommates, "you're far better with them than I am."
Again, Kurama shook his head and said, "They'll be fine, all you need to do is water them. Not too much, and try
to alternate certain plants in front of the window for certain days. Easy enough.
The ones outside just need to be watered every two days. Nothing much."
With that, Kurama closed his bag and slung it over his shoulder.
"Shuichi-chan can handle himself--but if he wishes to talk with me, give
him Yusuke's number, or tell him to call me," Kurama said, letting her know
he was hardly forgetting his step-brother. Another warm smile played on Kurama's
lips as he tried to reach the upcoming days, then he closed the door to his room
as his mother walked down the hallway and answered, "Okay...."
Before much longer, he was out of the house and walking to Yusuke's, with his
head, unknowingly, in the clouds. He could never recall feeling so light-headed
before, but nonetheless, he could tell he was grinning, and all he could think
about was meeting Jin in Makai, then seeing Jin's face as he entered Ningenkai
and was allowed to fly to his heart's content. Then after that--Reikai.
Par usual, Yusuke was home alone, but for once his mother was out shopping,
granted both boys could already foretell she would return with little other than
alcoholic beverages. Yusuke cared little, but Kurama sighed as empathy for
Yusuke washed over him. He knew Atsuko really cared for her son, deeply, but it
hurt Kurama slightly every time a little more of how unloved Yusuke used to feel
was revealed to him.
Yusuke shrugged it off, as he was accustomed to it, but Kurama would stare
sadly at him, and in those moments Yusuke would wonder how it was Kurama used to
be known as ruthless and was feared. It was hard to imagine someone that
considerate as cruel. He knew Kurama could be , an, and he knew he could be without
mercy in a fight, but fighting and friends were two entirely different things,
as far as Yusuke was concerned.
Thestedsted little time at Yusuke's house, only giving Kurama a moment to
unpack his things, then they went through the trouble of finding a will hid
opening of Kurama's to Makai and headed to the previously
agreed upon rendezvous point.
"Yusuke, did you find that opening I told you about?"
"Yeah...but we're not really supposed to do this stuff...."
"It's okay. I have permission from Koenma. You did go, right? And you
saw Jin?"
"Hai...."
"Now, Yusuke, you did tell Jin today, at seven, ne?"
"Yes, yes, of course. Damn...you worry like your mother."
"Shush, Yusuke. If you plan to be an imp on this entire thing, I will
refuse to take you with us to Reikai," Kurama lightly chided, only
reminding Yusuke further of a parent, mostly Shiori.
"Yes, 'kaa-san."
"Yusuke!"
"Ah...okay...I'll stop," Yusuke said with an impish grin, that
Kurama chuckled at, ending the game. Both boys then laughed at their
foolishness, but Yusuke thought to himself, 'Kurama would make an awesome
father.... Too bad he doesn't plan on havin' kids....'
They reached the meeting place, and Kurama was relieved to see Jin, wide grin
splitting his face, waiting for them. Naturally, Yusuke and Jin both grinned and
gave each hearty hugs while Kurama watched them, wishing he could join them.
Yet, he dared not break his composure.
"All right, let's go. It's already a little dark back in Ningenkai, so
you can fly around and no one will spot you, but you really can't take too long,
as I'm sure Yusuke is looking forward to a meal soon," Kurama gently said
as he gave Jin a smile for a welcome.
In return, Jin gave Kurama a large, toothy grin full of a gratitude as he
said, "No problem! I'll just take a little time to soar about, then we'll
get to Urameshi's house. Hey, and who's going to cook?"
"Yusuke will," Kurama answered as he gave Yusuke a warm smile.
"Yeah, leave it to me."
"Whheee! I can't wait to try it, Urameshi! You better cook something
good. Let's get going," said Jin, impatient as he walked in front of the
other two, eager to find how they entered Makai and leave.
"Oh, it'll be good. You just wait," Yusuke shouted as he hurried
his pace and walked by Jin. Kurama shook his head at the energy both displayed
and walked faster to keep up with them, but stopped when he heard fluttering
wings settle near him.
Curious, he turned to see a crow looking at him from the ground.
"Oro?" Kurama's eyes blinked as he studied the crow, then was
further surprised when it hopped on his shoulder and tilted its head
intelligently.
"Hey, Kurama, get your pretty ass over here and hurry up. Jin wants to
go already!" Yusuke yelled, anxious to return, from further down the path
they had been walking. Kurama looked at the crow, then realised it was intent on
going with him, and he hurried along.
Jin, upon seeing Kurama's new friend, also blinked his eyes as his ears
wiggled up and down with curiosity.
"Where'd he come from?"
"No idea, but he's insistent on coming with, so I couldn't just deny
him," Kurama said, sheepishly as he looked at the crow once more.
Without further delay, they left Makai and re-entered Ningenkai.
Jin stood out under the glistening canopy with his arms open as he looked up,trying to find the end to the dark blanket of night. Meanwhile, Kurama looked at
the crow on his shoulder and said, "Go on, fly off. Do something
normal."
"Kurama...you got that thing in Makai, and you expect it to act
normal?" Yusuke asked with one eye raised in question as he eyed the bird
suspiciously.
"I suppose you have a point, Yusuke. I wonder if Yukina would like
him...."
Yusuke thought for a bit, then shrugged and said, nonchalant, "She likes
all birds, but you really want to give *THAT* one to her?" just as Jin
finally got over his initial shock and took off flying through the sky,
thrilled.
Kurama smiled as Jin soared high above them, puffy red hair twisting in the
wind, and he gently caressed the crow's face without noticing it, causing the
crow to nuzzle his fingers in return. Yusuke watched the exchange, then shook
his head with uncertainty. There was something amiss with that crow; it was far
too intelligent.
"You are right.... I'm not sure about giving him to her as well."
"It's a him? How can you tell?" Yusuke asked curiously as he
started to look at the crow, who wisely twisted around so Yusuke would be
further annoyed.
With a chuckle, Kurama lightly petted the crow's head with one finger as he
said, "Well, I just can. I'm not entirely sure, but he seems male...."
"Feh, whatever. Just don't expect me to feed it."
"Oro?">
>
"You are going to keep it, right?" said Yusuke as he looked at the
bird, trying to determine how it was male, while Kurama sweat-dropped.
"Ahh...actually, I don't know. He seems to have chosen to stay with me,
Yusuke, not the other way around."
"True," Yusuke said, defeatThe The battle to be rid of the crow was
lost, and Yusuke turned to watching Jin instead, giving a moment every once in a
while to glare at the crow, hoping that would scare it off. The impervious
creature paid Yusuke no attention, and soon Yusuke's only concern was returning
home for a meal.
Birds scattered from their flocks, then reunited around the soaring red-head
as he twisted and turned in the air, then for fun, he flew with the feathered
creatures. Soon, Jin would tire of that, then he would take off once more and
fly on his own, turning in circles, and all the while he beamed.
Though he loathed to end Jin's gleeful flight, Yusuke finally called out,
"Jin! Come on, it's time we got to my place. Hurry up!"
Kurama gave Jin a sympathetic smile as the pointy-eared one landed beside
them. He was glowing, but at the same time, it was hard for him to let go so
soon. "Okay.... Let's go. But I can fly again later, ne?"
"Yes," said Kurama with mirth in his voice. It was heart warming to
see Jin enjoy himself so thoroughly. "Again, after dinner."
sighed, put the note to the side and said, "As predicted, we have the place
to ourselves. Chances are my mother will appear here a couple of times, then
disappear again without a trace. Kurama, entertain Jin while I manage to make
something for us."
Kurama thought for a moment, then said, "Fine...but do me a favour?"
"Yes?"
"Avoid more soup. I don't feel like soup tonight."
"Ah, but I made this really awesome broth the other night and-"
"Yusuke," Kurama said, irritation starting to form in his voice,
"I understand how fond of the stuff you are, but I tire of it. At least
make something else this one time. Please?" at the end of his plea, Kurama
gave Yusuke a soft, imploring look, while the crow on his shoulder sounded like
he was snickering.
"Fine.... How about a stew?" Yusuke said, attempting to make a
compromise instead.
With a bright smile, Kurama looked at the crow then Yusuke and said, amused,
"You know, that does sound like a good idea. In the meantime, I'll
introduce Jin to your game console."
"Oh, you're gonna play a game? Which one? The one I always kick your ass
on?" taking this moment as his chance to compensate for allowing Kurama to
stay over with Jin, make a stew, and keep the crow around, Yusuke said this with
a huge grin, hoping Jin heard him.
A throaty, low, almost inaudible laugh, which was in truth a warning, came
from Kurama's throat as he leaned in close to Yusuke and said, "Just cook.
I'll entertain Jin," then left the kitchen before Yusuke could say another
word, especially if anything he was about to say was along the lines of,
"Entertain, eh? At least use my bed!"
Yusuke shrugged, then started to collect vegetables from the fridge.
With a soft smile, Kurama turned on the game console, then handed Jin acontroller and said, "I'm going to introduce you to Yusuke's favourite
thing. Video games."
"All right then. How does this work?" Jin asked as he took a
controller and looked at it. A huge smile broke across the confusion as he said,
"Pretty colours."
Kurama gave a small chuckle before he placed another controller in his hands
to show Jin how to hold it. From there he gave instructions over what button did
what, and they started a game. During this, the crow grew bored and left
Kurama's side for the kitchen.
Cautiously, it stayed near the floor and entered the kitchen, then hopped up
on the counter as it quietly walked along the edge. He tilted his head as he
noticed Yusuke was humming, but he remained silent. When he was close enough, he
looked up, glad to see there was still no reaction from Yusuke, then he snatched
a piece of carrot Yusuke had cut for the stew, and finally, Yusuke noticed his
presence.
wondered if it was just something that ran through the blood Jin and Yusuke
shared. True, calculations and perfect timing hardly mattered against luck all
of the time, but in a real life battle, Kurama had never encountered so much
trouble. Or maybe it was that he had never fought with Jin or Yusuke.
Whatever it was, Kurama was baffled. It never once dawned on the red-head
that he was anxious about upcoming events, and more interested about getting to
know Jin than playing video games. Or, he hated to admit to himself he was
anxious.
They were about to start a fifth round when the words, "That's it! We're
having crow stew tonight!" were shouted through the apartment, and Kurama's
eyes flew open. He rose from the floor, gently placed down the controller, and firmly shouted back, "Oh no,
we're not!" then ran to the kitchen to save his newly acquired companion,
all the way asking himself why he cared so much when he had just met the thing.
And it had chose him, it was not like Kurama wanted it to follow him around.
Still...it was just a helplessdnird, and Yusuke probably had a--
Yep, Yusuke had a knife.
"Yusuke! Don't you dare!"
With the knife raised in the air, while the crow had his head tilted up, but
his body shrank back, Yusuke stopped.
"Ah, jeez, Kurama.... He's pissin' me off. You could at least keep him
out of the kitchen."
Kurama lightly stepped forward as he gently said, "Perhaps, but that's
no excuse for such treatment. All he is doing is trying to eat. It's a natural
animal instinct, nothing more."
"Damn...you *ARE* soft," said Yusuke, annoyed as he placed the
knife down, but raised his hand as he caught the crow now taking another piece
of carrot.
Irate, Kurama's eyes had narrowed at being referred to as soft, (he was
weak??) and his eyes glinted dangerously as Yusuke's hand lifted in the air.
Cold, Kurama bluntly said, "Yusuke, stop."
Jin looked at how serious they both were, and the crow in his helpless state,
and feeling akin to a creature of flight, Jin gleefully said, "Fine,
Urameshi, just keep that up. Looks like he wishes to get spanked, Kurama."
"Oro?" The cold look finally left Kurama's eyes, and Jin breathed a
sigh of relief, glad his attempt worked. Yusuke snickered, forgetting about the
crow for a minute as he said, "Right. Kurama is more likely to receive,
than give ankinnking."
Pained, Jin saw his efforts shatter as Kurama's mouth twitched at that, and
calm, like clouds just before a hurricane, Kurama put a hand to his hair, took
out a seed, and completely deadpan said, "Don't tempt me, Yusuke."
Finally, Yusuke realised the danger, his words, and noticed the glare in
Kurama's green eyes. Unused to them looking so hard, at least, not at him,
Yusuke's mood slipped from near jovial to serious and worried as he backed away.
Kurama took that moment to take a few pieces of lettuce, and an entire
carrot, and offered his hand to the bird.
Worried this might stain their friendship a little, Yusuke decided it was
time to apologise, so quietly he said, "Ano...sorry about that, Kurama...."
"It's okay, Yusuke," Kurama said in return as gentleness returned
his eyes. Yusuke breathed a sigh of relief, and Kurama almost felt guilty for
becoming so angry. He knew Yusuke was probably joking, but why did the bird
upset him enough to treat it so roughly? To say such things?
"Come now, Karasu. I'll feed you away from Yusuke and his sharp
objects."
Yusuke's eyes flew wide, and while he was okay with ignoring his personal
connotation for "sharp objects" (he also knew Kurama was hardly aware
of Yusuke's interpretation of that. To say what it was would only embarrass
Kurama--for not thinking of it sooner), he could not just let the name run by
him without mention.
"KARASU? You're naming it KARASU? Are you nuts?"
Jin immediately started to chuckle, while Kurama blinked his eyes and asked,
"Is there something wrong with that?"
"Well, yes.... Karasu?! You're naming it after that sadistic, sick,
obsessive-"
"It just means 'crow' or 'raven' Yusuke. I'm just not very creative with
names, 'tis all. I'm not named Kurama because I have knack for naming
things."
"Oh!" Yusuke jolted alert at this, then cautiously, afraid to tread
on sacred ground, as he knew what empty childhoods were like, asked, "You
named yourself, then?"
"Yes...." Kurama answered as he held the newly named Karasu to his
chest. "Now, you finish our meal, and I'll watch Karasu better, I
promise."
Unsure of what to say, Yusuke nodded his head, despising the heavy feeling
that had settled into the pit of his stomach. It started to churn to guilt,
until he jolted up and remembered there was another mountain name he recognised.
To himself he asked, 'Hiei.... Uncreative eh? So...who named Hiei then? Was it
his mother, or someone else?'
wondering how he was going to get to know Jin better. He remained aloof from
him, understanding Yusuke and Jin were far closer, but it unnerved him that they
never even had to try. Those two had clicked, like a seat belt fitting into its
companion piece.
Kurama had never really experienced that with too many people, and he found
it difficult to break in between the two. They were too closely knit, but all
Kurama wanted to do was have fun with them, and spend some time with Jin, since
inviting Jin to Ningenkai was Kurama's idea.
It took a couple of days, but two days later, while Yusuke was fixing
breakfast, and Kurama was telling Jin they would finally go to Reikai for the
day, after the morning meal, Jin's bright smile became too much.
As the pointy-eared red-head was gleefully expressing his joy, he hugged
Kurama in two crushing arms, and softly, just as he was pulling away, Kurama
held him back. Quickly, he leaned forward and brushed his lips against Jin's,
and Jin smiled even brighter.
"That was nice, Kurama. Do it again!" said Jin as his ears wiggled
and his bright blue eyes glittered with amusement.
With a blush at how forward he had been, Kurama said, "You sure are
enthusiastic about everything...."
"Yeah. That was fun," Jin said happily as he hugged Kurama again
and kissed the once fox-demon this time.
Kurama smiled, happy Jin took the next move, taking pressure off himself, and
he was surprised at how easy it had been, even without his charm. "I
thought you were with Touya."
"I am!" Jin gleefully said with another kiss to Kurama's lips, this
time a deep, long one.
When it ended, Kurama stared at Jin with confusion as he asked, "But if
you're with Touya then-"
"Oh, quit worrying, Kurama. I thought you knew how we were. Besides,
it's not like Touya would mind, as long as I learn something new to take back
home to him, he'll be happy with it. And I think Touya kinda likes you
anyhow."
They said little else, just continued to trade kisses, while Kurama tried a
few tricks with his tongue gauging Jin's reactions as he gently moved his hands
around. He teased one pointed ear, and as they lay on the couch, Jin on top of
Kurama with his hands massaging Kurama's shoulders, and Kurama's finger lightly
flicking around one long point. Yusuke finally walked in.
"HEY! There is a room, you two! Gah! I think you, Kurama, would at least
have the courtesy to keep that private!" Yusuke shouted at them, barely
choking back all of the jokes rising in his mind. He respected them far too much
to subject them to everything running through his mind, and the first thought
upset him most of all. 'Can I join? DAMN! Yusuke, what kind of thing is that? I
don't think Kurama would like you tangling with one of his conquests, and
further more, what would Keiko say?'
Yusuke now was cringing inwardly at that thought, while Jin lifted off Kurama,
and the longer haired red-head blushed and stammered an apology.
"I'm sorry, Yusuke, for being so inconsiderate. It just
happened...."
"Nah, forget about it, Kurama. I wasn't trying to be serious,"
Yusuke explained as he set down a tray on the low table in front of them, and
indicated breakfast was served. It was easier to hide rash emotions behind a
curtain of upset, but he would have refrained from doing sohe khe knew it would
make Kurama feel uncomfortable. At least Jin still looked delighted. That was
one thing Yusuke had always appreciated about the pointy-eared wind-master.
It was hard to upset the fun-loving red-head, and he was always a joy to have
around. Now if they could just get Kurama to stop worrying so often.
Gladly, Jin started the meal, and Yusuke followed as his eyes watched Kurama
for any signs of trouble or excess worry that should be doyedoyed before it
worsened. Kurama followed them, eating slowly and carefully, and once in a while
he would give a small bite to Karasu, while the crow watched them all.
wanting to fly again. The crow stayed behind, insisting on claiming a tree near
Yusuke's apartment, and Kurama decided it was best to leave him there. He was
uncertain how Koenma would take to Karasu, considering Yusuke's actions.
Thankfully, little conversation was exchanged with Koenma, as the younger
ruler of Reikai was far too busy to really give the group much attention. They
slipped through the office almost unnoticed around the bustling that had occurred
upon another of Koenma's bad moods, which had started with one of his father's.
The typical domino effect of Reikai was in full swing, and Kurama found himself
glad to leave the noise as soon as possible.
It was instant, the exchange between the overwhelming din and soft peaceful
air of Heaven's warm arms. Kurama welcomed every last bit of it and recalled he never set up a meeting place with Kenshin. His eyes went a little
wide as he started to tell Yusuke and Jin to follow him, but as soon as the
name, "Jin-" left his mouth, Yusuke pointed up to the sky with a large
sweat-drop on the side of his face.
Kurama looked up, then smiled as he saw Jin soar above them.
As loud as he couldage,age, he yelled up, "Jin, try to follow us, we're
going somewhere!"
"Okay!" Jin shouted back, then flew in circles around them as
Kurama walked out in the streets, and Yusuke followed.
'I hope I can find it again. It's hard when the streets change around like
they do,' Kurama muttered to himself as he recalled the restaurant Kenshin and
his friends usuallayedayed at. He had managed to find it a couple of times, but
each time it had changed positions. Still, he wandered around almost aimlessly,
until he noticed a girl with dark hair in a braid skipping around. She had a
companion in white and pink with her, and they were giggling and chatting away.
For a moment, Kurama pondered, then recalled seeing the one with the braid
before. 'Yes...she spoke much of an "Aoishi-sama," and was at the
table once or twice when I was there...though most of that time was spent taking
knives away from Tomoe.... That one is scary.'
He followed them from a ways, while the other one hopped about, short black
hair bouncing in the light, and she called out, "Zelgadiss-san, when I find
you again, you'll pay for that stunt! It wasn't funny."
Kurama and Yusuke blinked their eyes, then the girl gasped, turned bright red
and started to apologise.
"Oh my gosh! I'm so sorry! I'm so used to him lurking around. Are you kingking for someone?"
Feeling ashamed for acting like a stalker, Kurama looked at Yusuke,
helplessly, then answered, "Hai...I am...."
"Hey! I remember you," the one with the braid said. "You used
to hang out with Kenshin-san a couple of years back."
"Hai...doesn't he prefer Shinta-san now?"
"Yeah, he does, ne, Misao-san?" the other girl asked, looking at
the one with the braid.
Misao sweat-dropped and said, "Yeah...he does. Never mind, just come
inside with us. He's in here."
Kurama and Yusuke followed, as Jin noticed they had stopped, landed and
walked in with them. The three looked around, Yusuke and Jin curious to see
their surroundings, while Kurama greeted a woman who came to greet him right
away.
"Tae-san. How are you doing today?"
"Oh, Shuichi-kun, I'm fine. How are you doing, Sweetie?"
With a warm smile, Kurama said he was fine, but then asked where Kenshin was.
Tae immediately led him to the usual table, and he found some new faces sitting
with Kenshin-gumi. One he recognised as a red-head he had run into once before.
In fact, she was sitting right beside Kenshin, and Sanosuke, who was
currently sweat-dropping and saying, "I really wish you wouldn't agree with
him and then put your face right next to his. It's bad enough you and Kenshin
are the same height."
Lina sneered at him, then said with sadistic pleasure dripping from her
voice, "Feh, hardly the worst th can can get, Sano. It's just a simple
matter. Either you get to gamble today, or you have a party with us. Kenshin
ain't going with you, today."
"And why the hell not?"
"Gah, Sano! You idiot! Why does winning a round matter! You don't need
money in Heaven!!"
"It's the principle of things! I don't care about the money, but winning
every round like that is fun!"
"Sure it is, because you're not the one doing all of the work!"
Between them, Kenshin sat, quietly, with large eyes, every now and then
whispering an "Oro?" as he watched them carefully. He was uncertain
why Lina Inverse had started defending him, but he was almost positive it was
because she wanted something just as petty as Sanosuke's gambling desires. He
was also afraid their bickering would soon get out of hand. At least Megumi was
too entertained by it to interfere, and Kaoru was too busy yelling at Yahiko for
calling her ugly again.
"You little brat! Just because you're bigger than me now doesn't mean I
can't beat the snot out of you!"
"Ha! Assuming you can catch me, ugly raccoon-girl!"
"UGH! I thought you would grow out of that!"
A simpering laugh reached Kenshin's ears after that, only making the
situation worse as Tomoe added to her sign of enjoyment the words, "How
could he grow out of calling it as he sees it when you didn't grow out of being
it?"
To surprise all, Yahiko growled and promptly told Tomoe, "Stuff it!
You're far worse than Kaoru! At least her problem is only on the surface, but
you, your heart is the blackest thing I've ever seen!"
Everyone went silent, and Lina and Sano backed away from each other a little,
while Kurama stepped right between Tomoe and Yahiko. With all emotion banished,
Kurama looked at Yahiko and calmly said, "I'm surprised. That's not like
you. Don't worry about it though."
Then he turned to Tomoe, his eyes narrowed, and while he tried to hold back,
tried to forget, tried to remind himself it was none of his business, and that
he was a traitor as well, he still
said, "And you, refrain from starting any more trouble. Cold hearted,
insensitive-"
Yusuke stood with his mouth open as he tried to speak, but nothing formed,
and Jin stood watching, curious. He had heard stories saying Youko Kurama had
been ruthless, and this seemed rather tame in comparison, yet.... Kurama, the
Kurama he had gotten to know only acted this way for one reason. Obviously Tomoe
had done something bad...very bad.
Kaoru actually felt elated. She never had a chance to get to know Kurama
well, but it touched her heart, while she could not say just why. And Yahiko....
She wanted to hug him, but refrained from doing so, least she embarrass him.
"Shuichi-dono!t;
Kurama stopped as Kenshin's voice broke through, and Kurama turned to Kenshin,
face red with a mixture of anger and shame, but his features were still
perfectly calm. Kenshin had a feeling he knew that very same look all too well,
though he had never seen it through his friends' eyes.
"It's okay, Shuichi-dono. Don't involve yourself, please. It's not
necessary."
Seeing that Kenshin was not angry with him, Kurama eased, and walked away,
but he gave Tomoe one last glare before seating himself next to Lina, who gave
Kurama a huge grin.
"I like your style! So suave, but fierce as hell. What's your
name?"
Unable to stop himself, Kurama smiled at her huge, curious red eyes,
reminding him much of a kitten, a more mischievous one than Kenshin, but a
feline all the same, and he said, "Shuichi."
"All right, Shuichi! I'm Lina Inverse! So what are you here for?"
'Lina Inverse.... -Don't repeat her nicknames out loud!- Wasn't she some sort
of bandit killer? Stole from thieves, gave to herself? Dragon-killer,
demon-slayer....' Kurama sweat-dropped nervously as he tried to picture the
tiny, sweet-faced red-head next to him holding those titles.
Her features however, twisted, and fangs popped out of her mouth when
Sanosuke put his arm around Kenshin and started heading for the gambling meeting
place.
"Oh no you don't! Kenshin is *NOT* going with you, Rooster-Head, so give
it a rest!"
Lina leapt up and smacked Sano's head, trying to make him let go, while Kaoru
frowned and decided she would get involved as well.
"Yeah, Sanosuke! Gambling may not be illegal here, but you can't just
take Shinta where ever you want and keep him there all day!"
"And why the hell not?!" Sanosuke finally yelled back at both
girls, just to have Kurama's soft vocals answer back, "Because I'll be
taking Shinta-san for the day, that's why."
Again, silence fell, and the large group looked at Kurama, while another
woman with red hair, more orange though, looked up from her cup and smiled at
him. "Oh, I see now. That's why you came here. I thought you didn't seem
dead. You visit sometimes?"
Lina and Kaoru let Sanosuke go, as he let Kenshin go, knowing he had to let
Kenshin do as he pleased. It was nice to pretend for a little while that he
could convince Kenshin otherwise, though. For a little while...but now Megumi
was looking at him with an eye-brow raised.
Kurama, however, had not paid attention to any of this, even as Kenshin
looked his way, for his attention had been captured.
She rose from the table, in a black coat with a butterfly on the back, and
she gave Kurama a crooked grin as she softly said, "Been a while since I
saw you in Koenma's office. By the way, thanks for the advice and such, it's
been a real help, Rose-Head."
Stiffening at the nickname, Kurama unconsciously put one hand to his hair and
felt down the length of it, while, still smirking, the woman rose from the table
and smiled at Kurama. "I believe I owe you an apology. The first time I saw
you I thought you were a girl, but now I see you're a boy. Still quite very
pretty, though."
Nervous, Kurama took a couple of steps back, but too late, as Honda Kyoko
threw her arms around him and said, "How adorable! Your face can get as red
as your hair!"
Yusuke finally burst out laughing, along with Jin, while Kenshin smiled
softly, and everyone else snickered, or grinned. Only Kurama had no
expression, but his cheeks burned as he practically melted in Kyoko's arms.
"All right then. I've gotta get going. See ya all, later!" Kyoko
called out as she left the table, and Kurama seemed to slump.
He caught himself quickly, but the only thing he could really think was, 'She
reminds me of 'kaa-san,' while he tried to recall seeing her in the afterlife.
It came as a brief flash, but he remembered now. She was all smiles and
happiness as she walked in the room. Apparently Botan had told her she was dead,
and Kyoko's first worries went not to herself, but her daughter. She kept asking
about her, and basically convinced Botan if she did not let her see her and make
sure she was doing all rigKyokKyoko would bug her eternally.
To help Kyoko, while making sure she went to the afterlife, as she should,
Botan took Kyoko straight to Koenma's office. He recalled that much. The way she
tilted her head and said, "Ah, she'll be fine then. Arisa and Saki, they'll
take care of her," stood out in Kurama's mind.
She seemed so jovial, but Kurama could hear a tint of sadness behind
everything she said. What Kyoko had not said was how much she would miss them,
all three. And how much it would hurt not able to be there to watch her daughter
grow up. Kurama remembered then how much she reminded him of Shiori, and could
not let it go. He took a little time to talk with her, and assured her that if
she spent the entire time worried, she obviously held little faith in the girl.
And he promised he would find her and check up on her for Kyoko.
He had, once in a great while, but considering the trap the girl was in now,
he tried not to do that so often.
Realising Yusuke seemed concerned, Kurama shook himself out of the reverie,
and smiled for him.
"Hey, you okay? You've been acting odd ever since we got here...."
Yusuke said, first worried, then he started to turn around the second he noticed
Kurama was nonchalant once more. "Hell, I've never seen you go through that
many emotions in one hour before. We should come here more often!"
Jin laughed with Yusuke while Kurama sighed, shook his head and looked
towards Kenshin.
To his surprise, Kenshin had spared a few moments to talk to Tomoe and
calm her nerves. So things were settled, though Kaoru looked like she wanted to
spit nails in Tomoe's direction.
It was time for them to disappear again.
Kurama walked away, casually, silently signaling for Yusuke and Jin to follow
him. As he walked by Tomoe and Kenshin, he gently took Kenshin's arm and kept
walking. Tomoe growled, but as soon as Kenshin was out of the way, Tomoe noticed
Kaoru. Once more, words were exchanged, Yahiko jumped in, Megumi thought it was
time to have her own fun, and Sanosuke, Misao, Lina and Amelia ordered another
round of food, while Kenshin, Kurama, Yusuke and Jin made their escape.
"Ano...Shuichi-dono.... Are these your friends?" Kenshin asked
softly when they were out in the open and almost on the path to their usual
meeting place.
With a nod, Kurama let Kenshin go, but kept walking as he said, "Hai.
The red-head is Jin, and the other one is Yusuke. Yusuke, Jin, this is Kenshin."
"Hey!" Jin said with a large grin, and held out his hand for
Kenshin, as did Yusuke.
"Friendly," Kenshin responded as he shook both hands.
"Of course they are," said Kurama with a smile, as he darkly
thought to himself, 'Only really friendly, or forgiving pe coe could stand me
long enough to friend me....'
Kurama stopped thinking, though, when he noticed Kenshin looked at him,
worried. He went rigid as he wondered if Kenshin could read his thoughts, but
then stopped when he heard a rustling sound next to him.
"I know I hear something! Come out, whoever you are!" Jin happily
shouted as he pulled back branches, only to reveal a stunning blonde female, and
a narrow eyed purple-haired male.
Eyes closed, Kurama looked away as he chided himself for not telling Jin not
to go looking behind bushes and Kenshin blushed bright red with a quick, "Oro?"
Yusuke, on the other hand, was staring, and could not stop.
"Hehe...look, Filia, voyeurs!"
quotquot;Oh, they are, are they?!" the blonde shouted as a dragon tail
popped out. Jin blinked his eyes as he thought of how weird she was as she
jumped from the bushes wielding a mace.
Yusuke sweat-dropped, turned, grabbed both Kurama and Kenshin, each by a
wrist, and ran, while Jin took off flying.
Xellos watched as the naked Filia shook her mace angrily at the sky. It was
fun. Up until she turned around and smacked him with the mace for staring.
No...I take that back...that too was enjoyable for him.
over his hand and start to pry it off his w as as Kurama said, "What
started that?"
"You didn't see?! That girl had this huge mace! And she...I got flashes
of Keiko in a temper! I wasn't gonna stick around there," answered Yusuke
as he stopped and took his hands off of the other two red-heads.
"Oh," Kurama said, nonchalant as his composure returned, and he and
Kenshin walked side by side, still headed for the their usual place in the
cheery trees.
Jin landed by Yusuke and nodded his head towaKensKenshin and Kurama,
pondering at how at ease they seemed around each other. The sense of peace and
immediate understanding had not escaped Yusuke either, so he just shrugged his
arms, unsure of how anyone other than Hiei managed to get that close to the fox,
and quietly, they followed.
Once they reached the swing-set, surrounded by perpetual light pink blossoms,
Kenshin and Kurama stopped, and turned back, each giving a smile to the two
behind them. Intrigued, Jinnnednned and stepped forward ready to fly again.
"I'll just take another moment, if you don't mind, that is," Jin
said to Kurama and Yusuke.
Kurama gladly replied, "Not at all. Enjoy."
With that, Jin took off, flew through the falling petals and high above
them, while Yusuke looked around.
"Yeah, this looks like a place Kurama would enjoy. So much fuckin' plant
life."
Upon hearing Yusuke's murmurs, Kurama cleared his throat, sharply, indicating
he heard him, and Yusuke sweat-dropped, slightly ashamed Kurama had heard him
expressing annoyance at the pretty blooms glowing from the ground, and the
shimmering blossoms falling around them. For Yusuke it was just slightly
overbearing, but when he looked at Kenshin and Kurama, so close to holding
hands, surrounded by the foliage, little afterlife plants trying to snuggle
Kurama's shoes, Yusuke's mind changed a little. It was perfect for Kenshin and
Kurama, and they looked at home.
"Can we finish what we started?" Kenshin asked, looking up at
Kurama with mischievous eyes, ready to play again. Then Kenshin's eyes opened wider
as he remembered about Yusuke, and he looked at him, curious.
"Ahhh, I don't know that Yusuke would like us to do stuff in front of
him," said Kurama cautiously as he put one arm around Kenshin's shoulders,
but looked at Yusuke, inquiringly. "He could always leave, I suppose."
Irate, Yusuke twisted his mouth and said, "Why did you bring me here if
this was all you planned to do, and you didn't need me around?"
He realised his mistake too late, how much he sai said without meaning to,
but with Kenshin tilting his head on Kurama's chest, their similar, soft,
heart-shaped faces so close together, Yusuke had slipped, he just prayed Kurama
had missed his implications; unfortunately, or maybe fortunately, Kurama missed
nothing. He knew that game all to well after dealing with Hiei for so long.
Unable to deny Kenshin anything, he wrapped both arms around him, keeping the
shorter red-head close, and even nuzzled the top of Kenshin's head as he decided
he would play Yusuke's game of, "I feel this way, but I ain't saying it
because I'm scared, so there~!!"
To counter, he said, "I didn't bring you, Yusuke. You're only here
because you're following Jin around. You were not originally a part of the
plan."
Yusuke's mouth dropped open, having the worst confirmed, and Kenshin snuggled
into Kurama's arms *NOT* making it easier to digest, while Kenshin shook his
head and whispered to Kurama, "Shuichi-dono, that's mean of you."
While giving Yusuke a sly smile, which only furthered Yusuke's discomfort,
Kurama leaned down, breathed in close to Kenshin's ear, and breathed out as he
whispered, "I'm only playing with him, Shinta-chan. This one wouldn't
seriously neglect Yusuke-kun like that."
Kenshin grinned, happy to know for certain, though he had guessed that in the
first place. It was starting to make sense now that he noticed Yusuke sweating
and looking rather nervous, and the complacent smirk on Kurama's lips.
"Oh, this one sees now, that I do," Kenshin said as he looked over
at Yusuke and softly smirked. With mirth in his indigo eyes he asked,
"Yusuke-dono, Shuichi-dono is being bad. Would you like this one to punish
him for you?"
A light blush settled across Kurama's cheeks at Kenshin's offer, while Yusuke
seemed to be have a punch delivered to his stomach. Yusuke's face distorted
desperately as he tried not to picture Kenshin's offer, and forced himself not
to say yes, though it was sitting on his tongue. He wanted to yell it--'Yes!!!
Please!! Could you spank him, then it wouldn't be me Hiei would go looking for!'
"So, you do learn fast, Shinta-san," Kurama said, trying to act
amused, though Yusuke's reaction had him asking too many questions in his mind.
He decided to try one more round of teasing before he deduced anything specific
about Yusuke's reactions, but before he could, Jin landed by Yusuke and grinned
from one ear to the other when he saw Kurama holding Kenshin.
Joy had filled every last nerve in Jin's body, and it shined through is
gleaming eyes and warm smile. He took all of that mirth and proudly asked,
"So, does this mean we can finish what we started in Yusuke's
apartment?" as he looked straight at Kurama.
Kurama nodded his head as he pulled Kenshin closer and said, "As long
Shinta-chan joins us."
"No problem--the more the merrier!" Jin announced happily as he
hopped on over to start things, but now Yusuke's look of annoyance returned.
Here was Kurama, taking both Jin and Kenshin, and completely pushing him to the
side, expecting Yusuke to magically find something to do. That was not very
thoughtful of him.
"Really, this was your only damn intention in bringing me here?"
"Didn't I just say I did not bring you," Kurama asked, as Kenshin
gave him a soft nudge, indicating he thought it was time to quite playing with
Yusuke so harashly.
"Yeah, but come on. This is not fair, and you know it."
Yusuke was relieved to see the soft smile that passed over Kurama's lips as
he chuckled lightly. Then, Kurama said, "You're right, Yusuke, so you are
free to watch and play voyeur."
Jin and Kenshin both snickered lightly at this, especially with Yusuke's
frown as he grumbledut tut the situation.
Finally, Yusuke perked up when he realised watching was not so bad. It never
dawned on him that if he would be slightly more open about what he wanted,
instead of trying to hide it from Kurama, than Kurama would have said exactly
what Yusuke wanted to hear. Kurama just enjoyed playing one game for another.
Nothing more.
"All right then," said Yusuke as he stared straight at Kurama,
"take down your pants already. I'm gonna inspect underwear, and you're
first."
Kenshin's eyes blinked as he thought about this, then he opened his mouth to
say, "But Shuichi-dono doesn't wear any-" just as Kurama gently placed
his hand over Kenshin's mouth and said, "Ah, no, Yusuke. You'll have to go
first and demonstrate in thate. Ie. I never said anything about losing garments
in this visit."
Delighted, but hoping Kurama was only joking about not taking off clothes,
Jin snickered, "He's a smart one," as Kenshin added, right after,
"that he is."
"Great, now those two are finishing each other's sentences, and they
haven't known each other for more than a couple of hours," Yusuke grumbled to
himself. But he bounced back quickly and said, out loud, "Come on! A guy
like you has to be wearin' clean underwear, so lemme see 'em! After all, I get
to watch the whole thing anyway, so why not start there?"
"Yusuke-dono, you said it, so you should go first and demonstrate for
Shuichi-dono as he asked you to," Kenshin said softly as he nuzzled under
Kurama's chin, bringing another smile from the taller red-head, and Jin added,
"that you should," with another snicker.
"Aw fuck! Would you two knock it off with the sentence finishing!"
"But it's fun, that it is," Kenshin and Jin said together, as Jin
laughed harder and leaned on Kurama's shoulder for support.
Kurama crossed his arms, and with a content smirk he said, "Well,
Yusuke, looks like you're outnumbered on this one, that you are."
"Not you too!!"
"This one is afraid he is in it too, that he is."
"Knock it off!!!"
The three red-heads laughed, Kurama and Kenshin both holding back, but
grinning all the same, as Jin again used Kurama to keep him from hitting the
floor. After a bit, Kenshin decided to verbally express the outcome of the war
of wits and said, "Sad to say, Yusuke-dono, but Shuichi-dono won."
"Indeed," Kurama said as he gave Yusuke a warm glance, silently
telling him he could drop the act now and get what he wanted, but Yusuke was
oblivious to it.
Puzzled with something, Jin leaned over to Kenshin and asked him, curiously,
"Ano, Shinta, why do you call Kurama Shuichi-dono?"
"Oro?" Kenshin looked at Jin, then up at Kurama, curious himself,
now. "Kurama? Is that your actual name, Shuichi-dono?"
Kurama gave Jin a quick glare before smiling sheepishly at Kenshin. "Ah
well...could we talk about this later?"
"Why are you hiding it from me?"
"I said...could we talk about it later, please?"
"I get the impression I'm not going to like the answer," Kenshin
said, sternly as he noticed Kurama's expression drop from joyous to distressed.
"Fine, we can talk about it later. Don't worry about it, for now,"
Kenshin said softly. Then he reached closer, breathed in Kurama's scent and
whispered, "I owe you, and I plan to give it all back with interest."
Kurama felt his face heat up as he turned to Jin and glared at him. "You
are going to get it latquotquot;
"Wheeee!!! Can we get started now?" Jin asked, jubilant, completely
contrasting with Kurama's now morose mood. Kurama tried to smile, but it was
hard.
The last thing he wanted Kenshin to find out was that he had been Youko
Kurama. Guilt washed over him again, and he wondered how serious Kenshin was.
Jin's mood even failed when he noticed ma wma was no longer able to truly grin.
He already knew the difference between one of Kurama's real smiles and his fake
ones, and the one currently on Kurama's face lacked all sincerity.
Worried, he looked at Kenshin, begging with his eyes for Kenshin not to make
a huge deal out of a name, not realising what happened between the two, and
Yusuke watched them all, now concerned about Kurama himself.
Kenshin decided it was time to lighten the mood once more, and assure Kurama
there were no hard feelings. His promise was not meant with malice. Kenshin had
valued the small moment he had spent with Youko Kurama, though there was a
little regret, it was still small. It was not like Youko Kurama took anything
from Kenshin, after all.
A light grin spread across Kenshin's face as he recalled what Kyoko had said
in the restaurant earlier, and he gently grabbed Kurama's hand and gave it a
reassuring squeeze as he said, "Sure, we could get started, but you know,
Shuichi is far better name for Shuichi-dono. And besides, when I first saw him,
I actually thought Shuichi-dono was a girl."
Jin burst out laughing once more, with Yusuke this time, and Kurama bit his
bottom lip, and said, "Not you too, Shinta-chan...."
When Jin had collected himself again, he said, "It's okay, Shuichi-dono.
Kenshin-dono looks much more like a girl, that he does."
"Jin! You're such an imp!" Yusuke finally managed to speak out of The three red-heads looked at each other at Yusuke's words, looked at Yusuke, "FUCK! Three-way stereo! Guys, that's nonny!nny! If you're gonna do A new voice, or more like, one all of them but Kenshin had heard before, Kurama and Kenshin stared with shock as a pretty, very short, pink-haired "Genkai?" Kurama asked in disbelief. "Yeah, Rose-Head was it Kyoko called you? Good name," answered A blush of shame settled over Kurama's face as he realised that would now be "Yeah, and followed you from the restaurant. How do you think I knew to return here?" Jin and Yusuke snickered, amused greatly by the looks on Kenshin and Kurama's To himself, Kurama thought, 'I am so glad she was not dead the first time "Well, I think that's enough for one day," Kurama said quickly, Jin frowned as he looked at Kenshin, indicating he thought the same way "Sure. I did secure an entire twenty-four hours, and we've only been "If it makes you feel better, meet here tomorrow. I'll find something With a gentle smile, Kurama said, "Thank-you, Genkai," then turned "Hai, Shuichi-dono," Kenshin said beside him. Then he whispered Kurama gave little indication of his emotions, but Kenshin could see the
the laughter possessing him. So far, he had not been disappointed in his
decision to stick around and watch the trio, but he did secretly wish they would
do something other thalk.
and said, "Funny how the imp speaks of others as himself, that he
does."
something, do it already before someone shows up."
spoke. "You think that's bad, you should have seen the two girly red-heads
last week. Thought they would never quit jabbering and do something. Hell, they
still haven't."
girl casually jumped down from one of the cherry trees and gave no sign of
emotion, other than a twinkle in her toffee brown eyes.
Genkai with a smirk.
haunting him, and softly he said, "You were watching us wee week?"
faces, which matched.
Kenshin and I met,' while Kenshin was thinking, 'How long as she been watching
us?' with worry.
understanding that this was over. There was no way he would continue with Genkai
watching them, young, old, or anything. Yusuke was one thing, anyone else in the
universe was not invited, and no, tickets were not for sale, either.
Kurama did--a third red-head would be fun, and with longing he asked,
"Could we come back?"
here for four or so," said Kurama with a quick wink to Jin as he tried to
think of another meeting place. Genkai sighed; she could understand.
else to do with my time." She may have been curious at one point, but not
curious enough to ruin anything for the three. Maybe she was bored, but Genkai
was not the type to spread her misery to others. Perhaps bugging Koenma would be
productive?
to Yusuke and Jin to say, "I believe, however, it is time to call it an end
for the day. We will return to Yusuke's then and return tomorrow, Shinta-san."
quietly, "And you will need to come another time so we can discuss your
deception, and the reasons for it, Shuichi-dono."
alarm return in his eyes. He smiled softly to insinuate no fear was necessary,
and then saw the other three off.
altogether, considering their last visit, but Genkai caught his eyes as she
walked right in and marched up to him, pretty face very serious.
"Uhh...yes?"
"It's boring."
"Well, jeez, Genkai, everyone's dead. What do you expect from dead
people in Heaven?"
"Sex?"
"There's plenty of that...."
"EXACTLY!"
"I don't get the problem...."
Genkai groaned, not happy she had to explain this in detail. "I'm bored.
I would like something to do, however, I don't mean something so...well,
mundane. Everyone engages in this activity either all too often, or not at all.
It's obnoxious. I wish for something fulfilling to do, or at least someone
entertaining to converse with-"
A head popped into the office doorway, one belonging to a tall brunette with
a red bandana tied around his forehead, and he asked, "Um, ..wh..where did
Shuichi leave Kenshin?"
Two large toffee brown eyes blinked, then Genkai gave Koenma a faint smile as
she said, "Never mind. Things just got interesting." She left Koenma
thinking that one over as she walked up to Sanosuke, gave him an exasperated
look and told him, "Idiot, you don't even know of Kenshin's favourite
spot?"
Sanosuke shook his head, indicating no, and asked, "Kenshin has
one?"
"Follow me."
They left the office, and Koenma suddenly understood what Genkai meant by
things had livened up. But he wish he had not....
asked something else that had been on his mind.
"You know, I don't know anything about what's going on, so I probably
have no business saying anything-"
"But you'll say it anyway," Kurama said, knowingly.
"-but what was that between you and that other girl in the
restaurant?"
"I just...well...." Kurama trailed off for a bit as he tried to
word himself carefully. When he was ready, he said, "You have to understand
Yusuke, she had no business, really, getting involved in Yahiko and Kaoru-dono's
little argument. That's how they show sibling type affection between themselves,
and it is their business alone. Tomoe just likes to take any chance she can get
to purposefully harm Kaoru, and there is no reason for it. Kaoru-dono doesn't
deserve that. Besides, Tomoe betrayed Shinta-san, so she really has no business
speaking at all."
It did miff Kurama terribly that Tomoe was even trying to afflict pain on
Kaoru in the afterlife, only because Kaoru did all of the things Tomoe never was
able to. But Tomoe, in Kurama's eyes, had no right to feel pity for herself, for
she brought all of it on herself. It was her own fault. And after Kurama
finished reading Kenshin's entire file a few years back, he had come to really
like Kaoru, and appreciated her for being there for Kenshin when he needed her.
"I see...but hey, isn't that kinda hypocritical, Kurama? You, after all,
betrayed Yomi, ne?" Yusuke asked, more with curiosity than malicious
intent.
Kurama sighed, then answered, carefully, "Yusuke, you can't just compare
things like that. For one thing, Tomoe is not quite like me. I've made mistakes,
to be sure, but I would not go after Kaoru-dono the way she has. And," this
was the big one, "Yomi is *NOTHING* like Shinta-san, not in the
least."
"Hai.... I suppose you're right," Yusuke said, then smiled.
"So I take it back. It's not really hypocritical then, just a delicate
situation I have no business insertin' my nose into."
"Exactly."
Yusuke glared at him and thought, 'You weren't supposed to actually agree
with me. But of course, he does. Jeez, Kurama.'
with Kenshin, now curious how the smaller red-head planned to give Kurama back
what Youko Kurama had done to Kenshin. Now that he was away from him, he could
tell there was a mischievous glimmer in Kenshin's eyes, as opposed to hurt, or
anger. When Kenshin had first admonished him for the deceit, it appeared, to
Kurama, that Kenshin was horrified Kurama was the same demon from his past, or
furious with Kurama for hiding the fact--or maybe both. But now, now he could
tell differently, and felt anticipation build as he threw one arm around Jin.
The exuberant red-head was used to being the first one to initiate such
things, so it made him far more joyous to think he had some influence on Kurama.
It seemed almost as though he had gotten closer to the other red-head and broke
down a wall. Gladly, he kept close to Kurama and as the crow swooped down and
claimed Kurama's other shoulder, they entered Yusuke's apartment, while Yusuke
wondered how it was he seemed left out of everything now.
He was always in the spotlight, right? It was his, right?
"All right. You gonna give me some tricks to take back to Touya, ne,
Kurama?"
"Of course, Jin," Kurama said softly as the excited red-head
grinned back at him.
Happily, Jin said, "You could call me Jin-chan, like you call Shinta
Shinta-chan. I don't mind."
"Oh, really?"
"Hai!"
"Jin-chan it is."
With his green eyes sparkling, complementing Jin's bright blue ones, Kurama
started to lead Jin to Yusuke's bed room, when Yusuke, trying to act casual,
blurted out, "Uhh, well, since you've done a lot and everything, Kurama...you
don't think you could teach me some things to use on Keiko, do you?"
Intrigued, Kurama turned with a sly grin playing on his lips as he said,
"Of course I could. All you had to do was ask, Yusuke."
Yusuke cleared as his throat and turned away, now realising Kurama knew what
he really meant, and had known all along. It was humiliating to admit he was
just as bad as everyone else. Why was it everyone was so attracted to Kurama
anyhow? He had flaws just like anyone else, so why? It baffled Yusuke to no end,
but regardless, he was in the same position as so many before him.
He then realised it probably bothered him so much because Kurama seemed to
have picked Jin and Kenshin personally for himself. Still, Yusuke did have
Keiko, and he had no plans to forsake her either. He was not giving up this
chance, however.
And before he could stop himself, his mouth took over, like it was so
accustomed to. Yusuke's words were hardly missed as he said, "Jeez, Ken,
n,
Jin, Hiei.... I never thought of you as a slut before, Kurama, but--"
Kurama turned, swiftly, and a piercing glare from him caused Yusuke to shut
his mouth before he could finish, while the crow even abandoned Kurama's
shoulder and flew back onto a couch. Even he knew when something should go
unsaid.
"Well," said Yusuke as Kurama's anger faded all too quickly, as
though it was forced to begin with, "I take it back. I didn't really mean
it, Kurama. I mean...I know you're not a slut, 'cause if you were, you could
have just taken advantage of Kuwabara and make him think you were a girl. And
you could have enjoyed yourself with Karasu as well."
Kurama went stiff at the mention of Karasu's name, but the crow he had
adopted landed lightly on his shoulder once more, and Kurama softened as he gently stroked
the silky feathers on the crow's breast. To Yusuke, he said, "I never said
I didn't do anything with Karasu, now did I?" with a sly grin.
Yusuke's eyes blinked as confusion set in, and he asked, while Jin giggled,
"You mean you did? With that sadistic jerk? And then killed him?!"
"I didn't say that, now did I, Yusuke?"
"Huh?"
With a smirk, Kurama winked and whispered low, though Jin still heard him,
"Now, now, Yusuke, if I give away all of my secrets, I wouldn't have any
secrets, now would I?"
Kurama left at it that, turned, and put an arm around Jin. They started to
walk out of the kitchen and leave Yusuke to cook, but Kurama stopped to turn
back and say, "And even though you were very naughty towards me, I'll still
give you the same treatment as Jin, later. Only yours will have a little lesson
attached to it," then he left, with Jin laughing the whole way.
Stunned, Yusuke stood in the kitchen trying to decipher what was a game and
what Kurama was serious about. It was hard to tell.
And Kurama...he had never done anything with Karasu. It was fun to keep
everyone wondering; all of them--even Koenma.
long before Genkai and Sanosuke reached it, and walked back to the afterlife
restaurant. On his way, he ran into a distraught Kaoru who looked terribly
upset, and his heart clenched.
< did didn't mean to worry her.'
"Shinta! There you are, I was worried. I didn't know where you had
gone," Kaoru said, unshed tears heard through her voice. She was not angry,
just concerned, and she wanted to make sure Kenshin understood that.
"This one is sorry, that I for for I never meant to worry you,"
Kenshin said softly as he pulled Kaoru into his arms.
She leaned on his chest and smiled in the warmth.
"I'm sorry about this afternoon, in the restaurant, Shinta. I know how
you felt about Tomoe, now, but I just couldn't help it-"
Gently, Kenshin placed a finger over Kaoru's mouth and said, "Shhh.
Don't fret about it. Tomoe is not really a part of me any longer. I don't harbour
any ill feelings towards her, and would like to keep things civil between all of
us, but I can understand if she upsets you sometimes, like she upset Shuichi-dono."
Kaoru her her face warm a little as her lips curved up. So everything was
all right. She felt better, especially since he understood her position on
things.
"Thank-you. And yes, Shuichi is a sweetheart. He should come by more
often. He's a lot like you, and you two seem to really get along."
Kenshin felt warmth feel him as well, glad Kaoru was fond of the red-head,
and he unfolded her from his arms, took her hand and nudged for her to start
walking with him.
"Well, he can't really come here too often, because he's not dead."
"I know, but he still should. He didn't have to say anything to Tomoe,
as it's not his business."
"Of course not, but he did anyway. Shuichi-dono is just like that."
"That's what I just said, Shinta--he's a lot like you. He cares enough
to do something, even though he doesn't have to. That's exactly what I
said."
Hand in hand, they walked back out to the field they mostly occupied, and
Kaoru realisshe she knew something was going on with them, but she hardly
minded. Kenshin seemed to need this other one, Shuichi, and besides, she told
herself, 'We're dead anyway, and I know Kenshin loves me. Nothing else should
really matter, as long as we're all happy.'
She had changed a lot more than she got credit for, much like Kurama and
Kenshin had. Hitokiri Battousai and Youko Kurama were legends from long ago, and
they wished to keep it that way.