Won't Submit

by aMereContradiction

Yo, Ashe here, fry-cook extraordinaire! Walking home after shift close I was attacked by a demon and saved by my best friend, a rabbit statue. Now there's this crazy red head chick trying to arrest me with a rose, spouting nonsense about Spirit World Wardens and dimensional prisons. Forget all this nonsense, can't I just go back to deep frying?

11. Is that what the fox says?

Chapter 11

I pressed up against my bathroom door like a cat avoiding a bathtub full of water. Omigosh, omigosh omighosh! How did I not know my apartment was full of people?! Was I seriously that zoned out?! What the fuck!? How do they all even fit in there!? I frantically tried to regain my composure. Okay girl, no use cryin over spilt milk. What's done is done…but seriously how much embarrassment can one person take in a day?!

"URI!" I hollered, almost seeing him flinch from here. A groan from Uri and the deranged squeak of the futon met my ears. I pulled away from the door to allow the rabbit in when the sound of his socks sliding across the tile grew close. The door creaked open, shortly after, I was greeted by the sight of crisp green and a contrite expression.

"Um…yeah?" He mumbled, his words seeming to walk on eggshells.

"What the hell!?" I hissed in a whisper.

"Well, they came over so I let them in…"

"You don't say, so how do you figure I was comfortable with this? And didn't I already tell you to stop letting flippin random people into my apartment!?" I spat trying to stay calm enough to manage the volume of my complaining.

"Hey that was only twice and besides, these are people you know." He rebuked.

"It was three times!" I shouted stomping a foot. He flinched, squinting his right eye as his ears jerked toward the back of his head. His reaction had me worriedly listening to see if anyone had caught my outburst. Once nothing seemed out of the norm I continued in hushed tones. "Anyway, that's not my point." I sighed, scratching at the hairline of my bangs. "What I need you to do is go out there and get me something to change into, you can do that right?"

"Well I don't see why you just don't go yourself. I mean, you don't give a shit when it's just me and that damn cat, so what's the point? Like, really, now seems a bad time to be having a fit of bashfulness." Is he serious?!

"That's completely different! You guys are family, they're strangers!"

"Ouch, way to be harsh. How do you think Kuwabara would feel if he heard you say that?" He asked, words oozing with fake sympathy as he absently picked at a hangnail.

"Uhhhhg, you know what I mean! Why do you always have to be so difficult?! I don't wanna argue right now, I just want to get dressed." What I intended to sound scolding ended up being completely whiney. Grannnnnd, I hate it when my voice gets all squeaky like that. Can I just go lay down and die now? Uri's sniggering pulled me from my thoughts.

"Wow Ashe, way to be a drama queen. Okay, maybe I will bring you your clothes…but it's gonna cost ya." A shit eatin' grin slowly made its way across his face.

"Oh…and what would that be?" I asked in a huff.

"Well there's something I've been wantin for a while and you keep being all like 'That's dumb bla bla bla, I'm not spending money on garbage yadda yadda' but this time I have the upper hand. Either you agree orrrr…you can stand in here naked for all eternity." By the time he finished his ultimatum a soft knock was coming from the other side of the door.

"Sorry if I'm interrupting anything but Kyouji-san said you may need these," Keiko said meekly.

I shoved Uri out of my way to open the door wider for Keiko. I beamed at the sight of her holding a neatly folded stack of clothing. "Oh Keiko, you are a life saver! Thank you so much." I took the clothes from her then smiled at Uri in victory, "Looks like you will have to try blackmailing me at a later date, now if you don't mind, leave so I can get changed."

"You got lucky this time." Uri pouted as he slunk out of the bathroom.

I shut the door after him then took in what Kyouji picked out for me. Groaning at the frilly red laced lingerie set he had bought a few weeks before, I slipped them on. I told him I wouldn't be caught dead wearing these! I mean what the point of wearing underwear that's practically invisible! Uhg and why does lace have to be so itchy… I peeked in the mirror and pretended not to be pleased at what the bra was doing to my chest. Man, this is perkier than the girls have ever looked. No, I'm still pissed at him don't fall to vanity! Looking away from the mirror I wiggled into a tight pair of boot cut, dark wash blue jeans and a low cut v-neck tee that matched my undergarments. Oh, look matching socks too… I swear that cat is soooo ocd when it comes to clothes. Dear lord I have cleavage! I gaped at my chest in the mirror. Okay, honestly it wasn't that bad…it even looked nice but I didn't know how I felt about the girls peekin outta my shirt trying to say hello to the world.

Alright it still fits to societies norms, might as well just let it be…not that I have much of a choice…that cat is sooo gonna get it later. Giving into Kyouji's wardrobe choice I swiftly blow dried my hair and smeared on some eyeliner and mascara then left the bathroom as a properly presentable hostess.

Taking a deep breath for confidence I looked around the room then bowed. "I apologize for my rudeness," I stood and continued. "Thank you all for coming, but if I may…um, why are you here?"

"Don't tell me you forgot? Ashe-chan, you agreed to coming with us today about a month ago. I even switched the schedule around so that we could have a day out." Kieko said disappointment lacing her voice.

"Ohhhh that, haha…yeah silly me…" is she talking about when I first met Yusuke? I knew I should have found out what I had agreed to! "sooooo…what are we doing again?" I asked weakly.

Kieko sighed then started, "There is a festival tonight. I thought we should all go but since it's not till later, I figured it would be a good idea to get everyone together and make a day of it. Also then everyone can get to know you better." Kieko finished with a smile. Grannnnd, I totally wanted to be lazy today too.

"Oh come'on Ashe don't look like that, we'll have so much fun." Yusuke picked at me while rolling his eyes. Kieko shot him a warning glance before turning to smile at me once more. Wow, her bullshit radar must be at max level…

"I thought we could do lunch first, there is this wonderful cafe that Kurama has been telling me about for a couple weeks now that I have been dying to check out! Afterwards I thought we could take a short trip to the Museum, they have this new Greek Mythology exhibit, then us girls could all go get ready for the festival!" Kieko was practically shaking with excitement by the time she finished, and dammit I didn't want to be the one to ruin her plans. This must be how she tricked the guys into going, no one wants to be the one to kick the puppy.

"Well that sounds like an amazingly atrocious day. You'll have to forgive me but I have made prior engagements to…oh I don't know, what is it you humans say when you're trying to get out of doing something that you don't want to?" Kyouji asked in my direction, face bland. "Oh, that's right. I have to wash my hair." Okay, so Kyouji would kick the puppy…shoulda seen that one comin.

"Do you always have to be such an asshole?" Yusuke barked in Kieko's defense.

"No, I prefer to be the whole ass. Who wants to be just a sphincter anyway?" Kyouji corrected arrogantly. I stared at Kyouji giving him the 'if I have to go you have to' look. Kyouji's artic blue eyes caught my steely grey, thus the battle of wills commenced. A minute had passed before my eyes started to water but his ears had started to twitch towards the back of his head. I only hoped that was a sign of him about to cave.

"Are they talking telepathically or something?" Kuwabara asked Yusuke.

"Well, if they are I sure as hell hope Ashe's rippin' him a new one." Yusuke replied scratching the back of his head.

"Nah they're just bein' stubborn." Uri's voice chimed in from where the girls had been standing. "Watch this." Uri whispered to one of them.

One of Kyouji's ears twitched in the rabbit's direction before his tail started to flick back and forth like a striking cobra. Note to self: Don't get into staring matches with cats, the fuckers never blink. I heard footsteps making their way to the kitchen, it sounded like Uri from the walker's gait. A cabinet door creaked opened followed by the sound of pots and pans clanking as Uri dug through the cupboards contents. What is he doing?

"Aha!" Uri exclaimed. The cupboard door was shut then the sink was turned on. Kyouji's brow twitched downwards, it seemed he had an idea of what Uri was doing but didn't care for it. The water flow cut off, Uri's foot falls fell fast as he sped out of the kitchen.

"Don't worry Ashe I'll save ya from the evil beast!" Uri cried out as he rounded the corner.

"Don't you dare." Warned Kyouji, eyes still focused on mine.

"Oh, I dare." Uri mocked. Squirt squirt squirt. Kyouji dodged two oncoming sprays of water, the third hit, his hair was soaked and he looked livid. Ha! He totally blinked! "Boom headshot!" Uri cheered. Kyouji let out a low growl.

"Haha, nice aim Uri!" Yusuke hooted throwing a punch into the air above his head.

"Yeah, Yusuke couldn't have done any better with his spirit gun!" Added a pleased Kuwabara.

"I do not think that was the wisest choice in actions." Came Kurama's unsure voice. Her stance stiffened as if she were readying herself to break up a brawl in my cramped apartment. Though, I hate to admit it, she was probably right to worry.

"Oh, I hope he's not too mad…" Mint chocolate-chip ice cream girl whispered into her delicate fingers.

"Hmph, don't worry Yukina, he needed to cool off anyways." Was Kieko's curt response. Oh, that's Yukina! Awww she's so pretty…dammit, looks like I can't steal Kuwabara away after all.

Uri let out a snicker, "The pet store guy was totally right! Using a spray bottle is the best way to train a naughty cat!"

"Uri, what the heck do you have a death wish!?" I yelled at Uri before I caught the sight of Kyouji leaping for him. I lunged at Kyouji grabbing him around the middle then let my body go lax trying to slow Kyouji with my dead weight.

"Kyouji, remember you promised not to hurt him!" I pleaded.

"I assure you, he won't feel a thing." Kyouji hissed. He stopped then looked down at me. "A question first, Kitten, do you like rabbit soup?" I felt my eyes widen in horror at Kyouji's words. I refuse to eat Uri! I opened my mouth to try and talk some sense into Kyouji but Uri beat me to it. Though rather than trying to calm him down Uri was doing what he was best at, frustrating the hell out of Kyouji.

"Aww come'on bro, I was only trying to help. You're the one who said you wanted to wash your hair, I just thought you could use a hand." Uri snorted through giggles.

"Is that so? Then I will gladly be taking yours." Kyouji said biting at each syllable. He reached into his shirt for Lachesis's Thread.

"Uri shut up already, your making things worse!" I yelled at my melon green ward. "And Kyouji please put the string down!" Kyouji stopped reaching for his weapon but quickly grabbed it when Uri let out another laugh.

"UHG! Fine, you know what, go ahead and kill each other see if I care! I'm out, good luck feeding yourselves you stupid, pig headed, lunatics!" I stood, kicked Kyouji in the shin, took his ball of yarn while he was in shock and threw it at Uri's head. With no energy attached to the attack the yarn simply bounced off Uri and fell. I was out the front door and slamming it behind me by the time the yarn made it to the ground.

Omigosh! I had guests! I am such a bad hostess and a rage-monster! I totally just rage-quit my life in front of an audience! This is bad, really bad. They're totally gonna think I'm some kinda monster or something. Something brushed up against my leg. I jumped back and almost kicked it before I realized it was Sauto's scrawny grey cat. I had taken to calling her Peppy after she started following Kyouji around as if she were Peepy le Pew. Letting out a sigh I bent down to pet her. Sorry Peppy, I almost kicked you. Sometimes I wish I were a cat, it would be so much easier than all this shit. I envy you.

The door to my apartment opened behind me, I sighed expecting to have to deal with a pouting Uri or a pissed Kyouji. "I'm not talking to you unless you two make up."

"I was unaware I was fighting with anyone." Kurama's cool voice replied.

Instantly I jumped up and spun to face her, Peppy mewled in complaint. Soft pink lips were inches from my own, I glanced up into deep green eyes that seemed to know all the secrets of the ancient forests. Heat spread across my cheeks as the memory of my dream played across my mind. I jerked back, tripping on Peppy who spat and ran off at being stumbled upon. A firm warm hand stopped my decent, offering support while I righted myself.

"Sorry, I did not mean to startle you. Are you alright?" She said genuinely. When the fuck did she start being nice to me!? Dammit, why does she have to be so good looking…I AM NOT A LESBIAN!

I yanked my arm out of her grasp then busied myself with dusting off invisible dirt and shattered bits of pride. "I'm fine," I snipped looking to the side.

"The others should be out shortly, I believe they have mostly calmed Kyouji now that Uri has conceded to apologize."

"Oh…that's good. Uri's really saying sorry first? He never does that…" I shuffled my feet in discomfort.

"Well, he didn't have much of a choice once Botan and Kieko teamed up against him. You'd be surprised what two women can accomplish when they start defending a friend." She said smiling.

"Sorry, but last I checked I didn't think either counted Kyouji as a friend."

"I was speaking of you actually. I don't think any of them have seen you so upset before." She mused, amusement lighting her features.

"Oh, and I am sure you have." Not even a minute and she is already startin to piss me off! Geeze she's so sure of herself I mean she really needs to check her self-confidence at the door or something.

"Well, there have been a couple times…" a small smile played at her lips. Yep she definitely wants to laugh at me, great.

"Okay Ashe! I'm here to apologize 'like a real man', so yeah. I'm sorry I was being a douche monger to Kyouji to the point where the bastard snapped like some kind of serial killer. Also I promise not to spray him again unless he reallllly deserves it and um, sorry if my actions 'stressed you out'… or something like that." Uri said shoving his way outside, pushing Kurama towards me. He had apologized in the same manner a child would after having been caught picking flowers out of the neighbor's flowerbed. I felt my eye spasm as I stared incredulously at the stingy rabbit. That's it imma kill him!

"That is not an apology!" Boomed Kieko and Botan's voice from just behind him. Uri flinched, worriedly glancing back at the pair. "Okay, okay. I am sorry for upsetting you Ashe, I will try and keep my cool next time." He said with more honesty, if not a little frightened. I couldn't help but laugh at the scene, it was nice seeing someone put Uri in his place for once. He shot me a look that accused me of being a traitor.

Before I knew it Uri was being pushed out the door by the two girls followed by Yukina, if that's who Kieko had been referring to earlier. I backed up to allow more room, Kurama was getting way to close for comfort again. Then Yusuke, Kuwabara and Kyouji made their way onto the too cramped walkway. This is too many damned people, how did they even get into my apartment!? It took me a second but I noticed that Kyouji and Uri had found time to change. Uri had put on a baggy pair of light blue jeans, a green zip up hoody with a white tee underneath that sported a crossbow and read 'Keep calm and stay behind Daryl' and the beanie I had got for him. Kyouji was looking GQ with his long blond braid and in his black slacks, silk icy blue button up and black loafers.

Now that I took everyone in, they were all dressed rather nicely. Kurama was wearing fitted jeans, and a top similar to Kyouji's but in black. Why she always dressed like a man, I shall never know. Kieko was in a creamy yellow sundress, Botan in a fitted sakura blossom pink sweater that hung loose on her shoulders and Jeans. Yusuke and Kuwabara were dressed similarly with their jeans and tee shirt outfit, though Kuwabara was wearing a long white duster. Yukina was wearing a chilly light blue kimono with a dark blue obi. Oh, this is my first time meeting her and I was totally rude! She is sooo gonna hate me now!

I went to bow but found there was not enough room to do so, instead I lowered my head to the group. "I am so sorry for having been rude and making a scene in front of everyone. I wish you all did not have to witness that and if there is anything I can do to make it up to you please let me know. Also, Yukina-san, my name is Ashton Chance it is a pleasure to meet you and I look forward to knowing someone Kuwabara-san speaks so highly of." I lifted my head to smile at the small girl. Her eyes widened, reviling large garnet irises. That reminds me of something… I felt my brow arch quizzically against my will as I tried to fit the déjà vu.

She then tried to bow but ran into the same problem I had and decided to lower her head in my direction. "Oh, no the pleasure is all mine. And please do not worry about earlier, I understand how hectic life can be at times. Also I feel it is I who should be thanking you. Kazuma has told me how much of a help you have been to him in passing his math class." She finished, returning to her perfect posture then smiling the most kind hearted and warm smile I had ever received in my life. Did I die and go to Heaven just now because she must be an angel. I mean my heart just melted a little, she must be even nicer than Keiko and I did not think that was possible! Life is so unfair, they should share some of that niceness, they obviously have wayyyy too much if it just spills off them like that. Then it clicked, the shape of her eyes, the color, her small features…was she related to Hiei?...but howwww, maybe she sucked up all the niceness in the family gene pool leaving Hiei with only crusty dry bits of cynicism to cling onto.

I felt recognition flash across my features, "Hey, where is Hiei-sama any-". Before I could finish my question a hand clamped around my mouth then I was being dragged down the hall and a flight of stair by an anxious Yusuke, followed by a worried Kurama. What the hell!?

"Hey let's go, Ashe's riding with us!" Yusuke called out over my head then in hushed tones whispered at me. "I didn't think you'd put that together so quick, damn maybe Koenma was right hiring you as the new Spirit Detective. Here's the deal, yes Yukina and Hiei are related. –"

"Twins to be exact," Kurama added, "Though Yukina does not know and Hiei would prefer to keep it that way."

"That's a bit of an understatement." Yusuke added. But why? Curiosity was killing me and Yusuke wasn't letting go of my mouth, I acted instinctively and licked his hand.

"Akk! Gross! You liked me!" He accused releasing his hold on my mouth to wipe his hand off on his jeans.

"Why?" I ask hurriedly before he decided to silence me again.

Kurama grinned at our exchange then stated matter-o-factly, "He has his reasons, some may not understand but they are good enough to him. It is his decision to make and that's all you need to know." Oh, wow talk about defensive. Someone has a crush on Pinecone-sama. A small twinge struck my heart, almost as if it had gas. That was not jealousy! And if it were it was for short, dark and mysterious! I reassured myself. Yeah, once you get past the whole height thing Hiei is totalllllly hot! …literally. I snickered at my own pun earning myself two odd looks from my captors. We made it to the parking lot where Yusuke freed me, and Kyouji appeared. Was he following us the whole time!?

Once everyone was downstairs we split up into two groups for the car ride. The offer for girls to go in one car and boys in the other was made but I had quickly declined saying that I felt more comfortable if at least one of my wards was riding with me. Which was partly true, Kyouji hated car rides more than anything…well besides dogs. Hmmmm, maybe because the first time we were in a car he had been in a terribly foul mood so I had told him I was taking him to the vet to get nurtured... Nah that can't be it. But mostly I didn't want to be stuck riding with Kurama.

Unfortunately the groups were split up with Uri, Botan, Yukina, and Kuwabara in Kuwabara's blue Corolla. And Kyouji, Yusuke, Keioko, Kurama and I in Yusuke's white creeper van. Geeze, with these cars they should have definitely asked for more money to save the world. Note to self: Don't get so screwed over in life that you have to drive an 'I give free candy to children' van. My bad luck kept running when Yusuke and Kieko took the front seats leaving me in between a nervous Kyouji and Kurama. Yep, life was just dandy.

Yusuke drove out of the parking lot first, I caught a glimpse of Uri waving at me wearing a shit eatin' grin. It took all of my restraint to not give him the one finger salute.

"So where is this Café again?" Yusuke asked Keiko.

"Oh, I think Kurama said it was quite near to here." She replied.

"It is, just take a left at these lights and drive a mile down. I'll be to your right, it's called the Sunflower Café." Kurama informed. My mood perked at the name, it was my favorite place to eat and it had a great menu. I glanced at Kyouji when I noticed his nerves spiking though the bond. He sat stiff as a board, his fingers twitching. I laced my fingers with his hoping to bring him some comfort. He lightly squeezed my hand then relaxed a little.

"So Kurama, you don't have a car? That must be difficult, you know I could always find someone else to accompany me to my familial meetings once training starts." I hinted. Yes, maybe my luck is changing for the better!

"Don't be silly Ashe-chan, my car is only in the shop for a tune up for a few days." She beamed at me, "Besides, I would never go back on my word. It would be quite rude." I flinched at the 'chan'. When did we start getting all buddy buddy?!

"Oh, well I appreciate it Kurama-chan." I stated as politely as possible. Kurama's smile turned slightly sour before she looked out her window, Kyouji snorted, kieko threw me an odd look and Yusuke looked like he was choking. Was my tone too rude?! I thought I did well that time too… The rest of the short ride was awkwardly quiet other than Yusuke's random coughed chuckles.

Thankfully we made it to the café not two minutes later, everyone got out and made their way into the restaurant. Happy chatter and excitement bubbled from Kieko and Botan setting the mood for the day. Okay maybe everything will be more chill now.

We walked into the bright yellow foyer decorated with sunflower artwork and were greeted by the young girl who normally took my orders. Dammit, what was her name again?...Ami? yeah that might be it.

"Welcome to Sunflower Café, how many in your party? Oh, Chance-san is that you?!" Her expression brightened when she saw me. I put on my most polite smile and brought myself to the head of the party bypassing the others as they spoke amongst themselves.

"Yes it is, how are you doing Ami-san?"

She let out a whimsical laugh, I had always liked the way she laughed. It reminded me of a happy flute. "I'm fine, glad you finally remembered my name though." I felt my face heat in embarrassment at her words.

"Oh, Ashe do you know her?" Keiko spoke up from besides me.

"You could say that, Ashe comes here a bit. We have missed you the last couple weeks, the manager even noted that we were selling less grilled zucchini sandwiches!" Ami said in mock horror shooting me a quick wink.

"What, really Ashe buys that many?" Keiko asked flabbergasted. I stood and stared at the two. No, I can't buy that many it's not possible, I swear.

Ami giggled at her reaction, "No, not really, though he did mention not seeing you in a while. You see our manager has a bit of a crush on Chance-san here. He says it's hard to find a woman so polite and well behaved now days. Haha, like the rest of us are just a bunch of rowdy Yankees." She rolled her eyes as she spoke, the chimes above the door tinkled alerting Ami to new customers. "Oops… Hello, Welcome to Sunflower Café, I will be right with you." She called to the new customers, then turned to me. "Are you expecting more or will it be just you eight?" she said through a giddy smile. "Oh, and don't think I didn't notice you came in with that cute guy who totally saved you the other day! I need the details woman, but it can wait till next time." She whispered into my ear as she led us to our table. What cute guy?! Who saved me?! Why does she know things about my life that I don't?

"Here we are, well I hope ya'll enjoy your visit. Your server should be right with you." She winked at me once more, "And I hope I'll see you around soon Chance-san, I'll tell the kitchen you're here!" She walked off smiling after receiving 'thank you's' from everyone but Kyouji.

I sat first trying to signal to my wards to sit on either side of me so I wouldn't be stuck next to Kurama again. Kyouji immediately slunk into the chair on my right, looking bored. Uri, however, waited for Botan to sit then squeezed in between her and Keiko. Traitor…

"That girl seems to know you, Kitten." Kyouji said, drawing my attention away from getting rid of Kurama.

"Oh, Ami-san? Yeah she's nice, a little straight forward but it works for her."

"I'm sure." He replied blandly while skimming the pages of the menu. He closed it on the table a moment after.

"You already know what you want?" The chair to my left pulled out and down sat, yup you guessed it, Kurama. I groaned. Kyouji smiled at my displeasure. Sadistic bastard.

"And yes, I happen to know what I enjoy unlike some people." Kyouji's eyes flickered from me to Kurama as he directed a very cat like grin in my direction. What was that?! He can't know about my dream, can he?! No, he can't, Kyouji's not a mind reader. Just keep your cool girl, and you know what? From this moment on that dream never happened and I'll never think of it again! I shook my head to clear it of any lingering ridiculous thoughts then nodded firmly to myself. Kyouji arched a perfectly shaped blond brow at me.

"Ashe-chan, I am curious. Is there anything you would recommend, you do seem to know the place quiet well." Came Kurama's silky voice from my left. I turned to tell her that she came here just as often and she should know what she likes by now but stopped when my eyes fell on her lips. Heat rushed to my face. Dammit! I said not to think about it anymore!

"Oh! That's right, what would you recommend Ashe-chan!?" Keiko asked excitedly. A glance around the table showed that I know held the spotlight. Grand. I felt the red on my cheeks deepen but now in shyness. Just fucking great, can't they decided what they want without me?! I don't want all this attention! What if I say something wrong, or offend someone who may or may not have a zucchini allergy?! What do I do?!

"Um…well I.." Not being able to handle all the eyes that were on me I dropped my head pretending to look over the menu, hoping my hair would curtain the view of my red cheeks. "I normally just get the grilled zucchini sandwich, it's really healthy and has great flavor. Plus they use garlic roasted hummus instead of mayo as the sauce so it has practically no trans fats…" I let my train of thought die before I got into a rant on the pros and cons of eating nutrient dense foods, vitamins and minerals. A quick glance up reveled a scrunch nosed Yusuke but upon closer inspection he and Kuwabara were the only ones who appeared to have something against vegetables.

"That sounds really good! I love hummus!" Botan chimed in.

"I didn't know that, I will have to make you some next time you come up to the temple to visit Genkai and I." Yukina replied her perfect smile shining magnanimity all over the table. It's soooo not fair that they are so natural at being kind!

"That would be wonderful Yukina! We should all make a trip up to the temple soon! How has Genkai been doing anyways?" Botan chirped.

"Ha, why even ask. Grandma's too stubborn to be anything but as peachy as a prickly pear." Yusuke snorted earning him scolding looks from Botan and Keiko.

"I visited her just the other day and she was doing well, though I do agree with Botan. It would be nice to stop by and visit. Plus I believe Ashe-chan will be there as well, with her training and all." Kurama said to Botan ignoring Yusuke's rude comment.

"Woah Ashe you're training with Genkai!" Exclaimed Kuwabara.

"Hah, the old crone's gonna eat you for breakfast!" Added an excited Yusuke. "Oh man, I remember when I first started training with her it was hell! I only almost died like six times but with the level you're at right now you'll prolly only be murdered like 15 times at most. No worries though, she can bring ya back just to do it again," he continued with snarky grin.

"Yusuke! Don't scare her, you know Genkai's not that bad!" Berated Kieko. Omg who's training me she sounds as bad as my mother?! I don't want to die or be brought back just to die again! I worriedly looked around the table for confirmation on this Genkai's character assessment.

"Well I don't know, Yusuke did have a bit of trouble with Genkai's training but I don't think Ashe has to worry about that." Botan put in hesitantly.

"No way, Ashe don't listen to them! Prepare to be completely destroyed and rebuilt. No point in trying to make it seem easier than it's gonna be." Yusuke said through dark laughter. "I mean Genkai may be old but she is more dangerous than anyone at this table, well besides me of course. She enjoys watching her students suffer, also watch out for her-" Yusuke's sentence was cut short by Kurama. My eyes that had been watching Yusuke like he was Freddy Krueger turned to the calm redhead.

"Now Yusuke, frightening Ashe will not help anything. Also I never mentioned who would be training-"

"Hello and welcome to Sunflower Café, I'm Mika and I'll be your server this afternoon! Can I start you all out with something to drink?" Bubbled a young brunette. I almost wanted to crawl on hand in knee to the server to thank her like some poor beggar girl, I contained myself however because it would have been just a tad odd. She took our drink orders and since everyone was ready we gave her our meal orders as well. The girls all ordered my regular heck even Uri said he would try it because it seemed so popular. Yusuke on the other hand didn't want something that sounded so "girly" and ended up getting an American style cheeseburger, Kuwabara followed his lead. Kyouji to Uri's pleasure ordered a glass of lukewarm milk and seared ahi tuna.

After Uri thoroughly annoyed Kyouji about his meal choice and I had calmed them down before we got kicked out of my favorite café the conversation at the table flowed smoothly. We ate as we chatted about light subjects, no one mentioned my upcoming doom so I chose to put my questions about Genkai and her evil ways on the backburner of my thoughts.

After we finished, Kurama decided she wanted to rub in everyone's faces how rich she was by paying for everything. Tip included. Apparently she owns a well to do flower shop, who woulda guessed? Nope not me, not like she smells like a walking flora boutique or anything. She's such a bitch, I can't believe the hag wouldn't even let me pay for my wards and I! Does she think I'm that broke…well she did see my apartment…but still, how rude! Annnd she gets to come out lookin all genuine and caring, as if. She totally has her own agenda, it's written all over her smug face! Though…she is really good at acting, I mean if I didn't know any better I would have thought she was as kind as Keiko…No don't be fooled, that bitch be evil!

We had all piled into our perspective vehicles then made our way to the museum. The drive to the museum took a little longer than the drive to Sunflower Café but it went better than I expected. Though there was this one awkward moment when Kyouji commented on Kurama being "a purrfect feminine specimen of beauty and elegance" after I "accidently" tripped her. It hadn't been my fault really because she should not have been following me that closely and I only stopped to look at this really cool beetle on the ground. The beetle was bad ass looking though, it was a lime green and when the sun hit it, it shined gold. But after Kyouji made the sarcastic to the extreme compliment, I thought Kurama and Kyouji were gonna fight right there. The look Kurama gave Kyouji rivaled any I had received from Pinecone-sama, and I thought he was the world champion of glares.

When we had gotten to the museum we found out that Kuwabara and I didn't have to pay for our tickets because we were college students. Score! Plus I was able to talk Kurama into letting me pay for Uri and Kyouji, double score! We migrated toward the Greek Mythology exhibit and truth be told I was a little excited to see it. I always loved Greek mythology and all the legends that surrounded it, it was one of the reasons I was studying to get my major in Philosophy. The excitement I felt quickly dwindled with every stop Yusuke and Kuwabara took to look at something and make up stories for it. Sure they were kinda rude saying things like "Dude this guy totally got his face rearranged by a blender" or "It was prolly cuz he pissed off his wife." Then they would laugh like children, though a lot of what they said was crass I really had no problem with it. Some of it was even funny, though watching Kieko get irked was more amusing then the boys themselves but Kurama just had to stop and correct them then spout off random facts about the artworks like he was reading off the information pamphlet.

By the third time Kurama corrected Yusuke we had made it to the Greek Mythology exhibit and Yusuke was picking on a statue of medusa.

"Though your theory is amusing Yusuke, Medusa could actually turn any man into stone by simply looking them in the eye. It was-" That's it I couldn't take anymore lectures, even Yusuke looked like he was about ready to tell Kurama to chill. The rest kind of looked interested in the history though…no I wouldn't let this one slide. I quickly glanced at Uri, he met my gaze once he felt my interest pinpoint onto him. A gave him a single nod then smiled mischievously. His eyes widened fractionally as his smile began to mirror my own, he nodded back. It's on!

Scooting closer to Kurama I politely asked near her ear, "What does the fox say?"

She stopped mid-sentence to stare at me quizzically, she opened her mouth to reply but Uri's loud voice boomed through the corridor interrupting her.

"Ring-ding-ding-ding-dingeringeding! Gering-ding-ding-ding-dingeringeding!" Uri sang out, perfectly executing the dance moves to the song. I couldn't help it, her face was so priceless. I laughed like no tomorrow, holding my ribs so they didn't split apart. Uri was quick to join me.

She stared at Uri like he had completely lost his mind and was worried he needed mental help. The rest of the group, and well, the entire corridor of museum goers joined Kurama in staring at the rabbit and I before Yusuke and Kuwabara broke out into full bellied laughter. Even Kieko and Botan joined in, poor Yukina looked terribly confused but Kyouji seemed to be having trouble containing himself enough to only let out a haughty chuckle.

It seemed that cats and foxes didn't get along…maybe Kyouji thought foxes belonged somewhere close to the K9 family. But in reality they were more closely related to raccoons and weasels, or maybe Kyouji just didn't like Kurama much…

Kurama's lips pursed as a sour expression started to settle onto her features.

"That was great!" Yusuke coughed out in between spurts of snorts.

"Oh dear, Kurama I'm so sorry for laughing but it really was funny." Kieko apologized after she got her laughing under control.

"Think nothing of it." She replied curtly, trying to play it off like nothing had bothered her. Damn, how hard is it to ruffle her feathers? Oh well, at least she stopped being a walking history book. Ashe: 1 Kurama: 0! "Shall we continue?" She asked, effectively diverting attention away from herself. She walked ahead pointing a look in my direction that I couldn't decipher. What was that?! She want payback or something, omg please don't tell me I have to watch my back now!

I followed the group towards the back putting as much space as politely possible between the fox and I. Aren't foxes like tricksters or something?! Maybe I shouldn't have pulled a prank on her, maybe she is the best at pranking ever and I have totally just screwed myself over?! Akkkkk what do I doooo?! Okay girl, just don't fall for anything.

"What worries you kitten?" Kyouji inquired from my side.

"Nothing…" I responded not wanting to admit my fear of Kurama.

"Hmm, you know lying does not become you. If you worry that the fox will retaliate, don't." Oh, wow Kyouji was trying to cheer me up. I forgot how sweet he could be sometimes. "She surly will, you just have to be ready for it. Also keep in mind that foxes have long memories. In fact there was this fox I once knew, she held a grudge on me for 343 years before she got me back." Scratch that, Kyouji's evil!

"What?! 300 years?! I'm can't keep a look out for 300 years! The stress of that alone would kill me way before then!" I yell-whispered at Kyouji.

"Well, it does seem you hurts it's pride… she will probably have the upper hand soon enough. But at least you won't have to worry about all that stress building up for too long." He finished, flashing a roguish grin at me. I'm dooooooomed!

Kyouji let me quietly stew in my anxiety while we tailed the group. Okay, she will probably try and be all sneaky like with her revenge. So I just gatta stay on my toes and I'll be alright…hopefully. I felt myself turn but didn't pay any attention to where I was headed when a slight pulling feeling lead me to the left. I should have a counter attack planned for when she makes her move! Yes! That's exactly what imma do, now just to decide what… and well there are different counters to different moves. So if she is all passive aggressive about it I could totally just- Hmmm, something feels off.

The pull had grown strong enough to tug me from my thoughts, I peered around taking in my surroundings. I found myself to be alone, or mostly so. A large statue of a nude woman shared the space with me. She was sculpted sitting "criss-cross applesauce" style, her hands were held out away from her on either side of her body in a relaxed meditative position. Her index and thumb were pinched together at their fingertips forming a small "o" shape. The crown of her head was tilted skyward, or ceiling bound since we were technically in a building, causing her neck to extend elegantly. Two braided buns sat at the base of her skull on either side of her neck. I needed to be closer. She needed help, she seemed so lonely. Golden light flitted through my mind tinged with what felt like a greeting and pleading.

She's a Youkia! This must be a cell, she feels so sad though…should I let her out? What if she was imprisoned for something horrible, maybe she's evil? Or what if it was a misunderstanding, she could be mostly innocent like Uri… I stepped closer, examining her features. The way her energy sang out to my own had my spirit energy tingling across my skin as it anxiously awaited me to make the bond. Could I handle three wards? I just got used to Uri and Kyouji being active at the same time, would I start blacking out again if I set her free? What if I black out for three days again?! I have to train, and from what Yusuke said of Genkai I don't think she would take 'blacking out' as a good excuse to be absent.

But she needs me.
…I know she does.