prompt: counterattack
Sparring
It became a ritual with them.
Attack, counterattack, punch, dodge, kick, evade. It became a game for Hiei to see how fast he could force Kurama to use his Rose Whip – and now he knew exactly what kind of weapon it was. It was a game for Kurama to see how fast he could force Hiei to ditch his sword.
They enjoyed the sport. There was something relaxing about sparring someone who you could trust wouldn't try to kill you.
Blood was drawn, of course. It wouldn't be a proper sparring match if there wasn't. Afterwards, they would patch each other up.
Another show of trust. Another moment where both would pause to reflect on how, just a short time earlier (for demons, anyway) such trust would not have been possible.
None of this was spoken. Hiei finished tying off the bandage around Kurama's waist and stood, allowing the fox demon to replace his shirt. The fire apparition frowned. "You've got to learn to guard your side, fox."
Kurama chuckled. "I know. It seems to be a weak point of mine."
Hiei snorted. "You're only lucky it doesn't slow you down."
"It doesn't even phase me anymore."
Hiei shook his head, amused. "How did someone as stupid as you live as long as you have?"
Kurama shrugged. "Dumb luck?"
"I'll believe it."
Sparring was a ritual with them. So was the teasing and harassment that came afterwards.
Trust.
