[Paradox]
Yoko Kurama was the kindest sadist that Kuronue had ever met. It wasn't that he was merciful –he wasn't – nor was he particularly remorseful. Every day, Kuronue saw the fox ruthlessly dispatch anyone who stood between him and his goals. He took no risks and left no survivors, killing with icy efficiency and contempt in his gold eyes.
At night, however, it was a different story. Once the loot had been divided and dinner consumed, a change came over the King of Thieves. When the moon was high and the fire low, Yoko would creep into Kuronue's tent, and, once there, was all benevolence and grace. He handled Kuronue as if the bat were a fragile treasure, his gaze soft and his touch light. There were no caustic remarks, only sincere whispers of love. And while Kuronue greatly respected his partner as a talented thief and capable leader, he much preferred Yoko the way he was at night; when stealing and killing were farthest from his mind, and the only thing that mattered was Kuronue.
It was at night that Kuronue was reminded why he had followed Yoko for so long. It wasn't for the fame or the treasures, or the thrill of the chase. It was for the tingling of his skin that followed the featherweight touch of the fox's nails, the faint hint of rose that mingled with Yoko's musky scent. He stayed for the scrape of Yoko's teeth on his lips, the pressure of his arms around his waist as they slept. Nothing else made a shred of difference to the bat. The rest of the world could burn, and everything would be all right as long as he still had the love and respect of his best friend.
Of course, he could never tell. A cruel twist of fate, Kuronue mused, that the most important person in his life could never know his worth. After all, Yoko's ego was big enough as it was, and there was always a chance that if Kuronue noticed his kindness, the sadism could return. So he would wait, and remain faithfully by the kitsune's side. Ever closer to perfect happiness, but always just out of reach. Kuronue sighed, clinging tightly to the already-sleeping bandit king. It was a beautiful paradox, and for now, he would be content.