Many turned to stare at us and began whispering feverishly as they moved out of the way. For people that stared at me, I met them with a cold death glare. In my mind, I dared them to say something. As soon as they did, their life would end. After making our way to the stage, Yusuke gathered up the pictures and looked to Kurama. Without warning, Yusuke threw the pictures high into the air. The crowd began to get riled up, hoping to grab a couple of the photos as they fell, but before anyone could touch them though, Kurama pulled a rose out of thin air.
"Rose whip!" He shouted, transforming the plant into a deadly weapon. Flicking his wrist gracefully, he caused all of the pictures to be cut into ribbons. The crowd booed in disappointment, but we ignored them. We had to find the rest of the pictures as well as the ones responsible for this crime.
"Hiei, Kurama!" Yusuke said, getting our attention. "Go throughout the ship and destroy as many pictures as you can. We'll find the person behind all this," Yusuke promised. Although I wanted to take care of the sick bastard who had done this to us, I knew this was no time to argue.
"Let's go Kurama," I urged as I unsheathed my sword. Rose whip still in hand, Kurama followed me out of the dining room and down the halls.
We came across many corner stores with our pictures and quickly demolished them, scaring people senseless. I was amazed at all the photos that had been produced in such a short time. Just when it seemed we had searched every nook and cranny of the blasted ship, we passed by a hall packed with people. Kurama and I stopped in unison and exchanged glances. Clenching our weapons tightly, we made our way towards the crowd. Judging by the people's excitement, pictures of us were indeed involved.
I readied myself to attack, but froze when I heard a familiar voice. "What are these pictures that you're trying to sell?"
"Yeah, why are they so expensive?" Another voice I recognized questioned.
"Pay up and you'll see. You can't find pictures like this anywhere else," A gruff voice persuaded. My eyes widened to twice their normal size as the first voice said:
"All right."
"Kurama, that's Yukina and Keiko!" I hissed. Kurama gasped in surprise as we began pushing through the crowd. Murmurs broke out as we made our way forward, and then suddenly, I spotted Yukina and Keiko standing next to a vendor. They were accepting a package from a vile looking man- an envelope that I knew contained nude photographs of Kurama and I as well as the others. Panicking, I rushed forward. Just as Yukina opened the envelope, I threw my sword, successfully impaling it and pinning it to the ground. Surprised, Yukina and Keiko turned to look at me, just as Kurama approached the salesman. "Why hello Hiei, how are you?" Yukina questioned with a smile. "I've been better," I replied as I picked up my sword along with the pictures. Immediately, I tore them into pieces. Kurama proceeded in doing the same to the others, causing a lot of anger in the crowd as well as the girls. "Hey! We paid for those and we never even got to see them!" Keiko whined. "Good. If you had, I would have dragged you into Hades," I seethed. Keiko and Yukina blinked in astonishment while Kurama said: "There's nothing to see here everyone. Please return to your normal activities." Dismayed, people began to leave. The salesperson had run off, which wasn't surprising. Only Yukina and Keiko remained. "What's going on you guys? What were those pictures of?" Keiko asked suspiciously. As I was opening my mouth to make an excuse, Kurama answered. "Rabid demon bunnies as they were being slaughtered. We knew it would be too terrifying for you to handle," Kurama said calmly. I almost burst out laughing, but instead averted my eyes to the floor. "Rabid demon... bunnies?" Keiko repeated slowly. Kurama nodded, his face serious. "Oh... well... thank you. I'm glad I didn't see it... I like bunnies," Yukina commented. For a moment we all just stood in awkward silence. Then, a voice broke out over the intercom. "Will Hiei and Kurama please report to the captain's quarters? Thank you." "Well, me must get going. Good bye ladies," Kurama bade. In unison, the girls waved goodbye and we went our separate ways, but as soon as we turned the corner, we began to laugh. Kurama's laugh was smooth and cheerful, while mine was deep and rough. Despite this, we laughed together, amazed at what had just happened and our incredible luck. "Remind me to repay you when we leave here," I said once I stopped laughing. Kurama just nodded. Finally, we reached the captain's quarters and stepped inside. I was surprised to find Yusuke, Kuwabara, and Botan accompanied by a girl and boy- both of which looked familiar. After studying them more carefully, I recognized the man as the waiter I had harassed and the woman as Kurama's masseuse. Sitting down beside Yusuke, I looked to him for an explanation. "These are the culprits," He announced firmly. Kurama and I stared at them in astonishment. These two were responsible? Well, it made sense... but one question still remained... "How did you find them so quickly?" Kurama asked amazed. Kuwabara and Yusuke laughed uneasily. "Well... it wasn't easy, but that's not the point. These two came forward willingly, but they'll only hand over the film on one condition..." Yusuke explained. Turning to the two expectantly, we waited to hear the requirement. With the girl pointing at Kurama, and the boy pointing at me, they said: "You have to be my slave for a day." Our eyes narrowing, Kurama and retorted: "There's no way in hell."

* * * * *
Apparently, there was...
"You promised we'd become the slaves of whoever brought back the film without our consent... and then you expect us to go through with it?" I demanded darkly.
"Basically, yes," Yusuke agreed with a weak grin.
"Why can't we just take the film from them?" I questioned angrily.
"Certain laws and a bunch of crap like that. 'It's their right' or whatever," Yusuke exclaimed with a shrug of his shoulders.
"If they are profiting off of our photos, that violates a law as well, doesn't it? Who told you that we couldn't take it from them?" I asked ominously. Yusuke shifted in his chair while the others remained silent. I didn't need an answer- I knew. "Koenma," I hissed.
"Come on Hiei, its only one day. What's the worst that can happen? Besides, if we let them keep the film, they might publish it in more places once we get off the ship," Kurama pointed out. Frustrated, I placed my head in my hands and thought over the situation. Kurama did have a point... but if that idiot made me do anything I refused to do, I would have his head on a stick and much more before then. With a grim expression, I looked at Yusuke.
"All right, tell them that we agree, but give them this warning; I do not take kindly to ningens- especially those that order me around," I ordered. Yusuke nodded. Together, the four of us left Botan in her office and returned to our rooms. In the dark of night, I laid in my bed.
"Good night Hiei," Kuwabara bade tiredly. I didn't reply as I turned on my side and stared at the wall. Only three more days to go...

* * * * *

"Keep running. Don't stop until I tell you," He ordered smugly. I rolled my eyes as I continued to run circles around him, creating a breeze. He sat, laid out on a chair, drink in hand. I on the other hand, was garbed completely in black as the sun beat down, and truth be told, I was getting hungry... but I would never show weakness to a ningen. So, I kept running around my new, dare I even say it, 'master', while wondering how Kurama was faring. I had been woken by Botan only an hour ago to be deposited on the moron's doorstep. He had shown up in his swim trunks and led me to the deck. The waiter claimed he had a lot in store for me, but for now, he wanted to see me sweat. I couldn't help but at his idiocy. Nothing he did could possibly affect me- didn't he know that my main element was fire? When it seemed like I had been running forever, he finally motioned for me to stop. I did so, and then glared at him with all my fury. He smiled smugly, but my expression did not alter. "All right Hiei, that will suffice. Let's go to the pool." "Why in the world are we going there?" I questioned. "You're going to get me a girlfriend," The man exclaimed with a smile. I couldn't hide my surprise. "Nani? Is that why you wanted me to be your slave? You're so pathetic that you can't get your own woman?" I guessed. The waiter glared at me and then shrugged. "Partly. Mostly because you embarrassed me. I wanted you to be in debt to me so I asked my sister, that masseuse you met to help me get pictures of you. She sent a girl out to scream and distract you guys. Don't worry Hiei; I'm not going to do too much to you. I know you'd like to kill me... Just play along and make this easier on yourself," The waiter persuaded. "Hn. You could have made this easier on all of us by not taking those pictures, but you had to go and prove you were an idiot. When this is over, you can guarantee I will come after you," I promised viciously. The man glanced at me out of the corner of his eye and shrugged once more. I continued to walk beside him, my body tense. "I'm Mark, by the way," He explained. "What type of name is that?" I asked sourly. "American," He answered, his voice barely above a whisper. I was silent. Now that he mentioned it, he looked American- pale skin, blond hair, blue eyes... but I would not ask what he was doing working on a Japanese cruise ship. Finally, we reached the pool. Because it was still pretty early, there weren't many women around. I looked to Mark, curious to what he would have me do next. Mark looked to me and smiled mischievously. I looked away and rolled my eyes. This was going to be a long day.

* * * * *

"Well, aren't you the cutest thing?" She cooed as she laid her manicured hand on my shoulder. I twitched as I hissed:
"It'd be cute if I broke your arm."
"What did you say cutie?" She asked surprised. Stay focused. I thought to myself.
"Nothing. See that guy over there?" I questioned, pointing to Mark who stood a few yards away.
"Yeah, what about him?" The blond girl before me asked.
"He thinks you're the pinnacle of beauty although I'm not sure if I would agree with him. He's an American with poor taste and unfortunately for him, his IQ doesn't match his good looks. For this very reason, I think you'd be the perfect match for eachother," I explained flatly. The girl blinked at me before asking slowly.
"Oh... what was your name again?" Remain calm... remain calm... she can't help it if she's stupid. I thought to myself.
"If you value your life, go over and talk to that man," I answered shortly. The girls eyes seemed to dim.
"But... he's not as hot as you," She said with a flutter of her eyelashes. Deciding to humor her, I answered:
"You dare flirt with a married man?" Eyes widening in shock, she screeched:
"You're married?!"
"Shh," I hissed as heads began to turn. The girl's eyes began to gloss over and she placed her head in her hands.
"Oh, I knew it! Why are all the cute guys gay?! It was only a matter of time!" She sobbed.
"What the hell are you talking about?" I demanded in alarm. Looking up at me, her eyes red, the girl replied:
"You and Kurama are married, right?" My eyes widened in surprise, then quickly narrowed in anger. Before I told her off though, an idea popped into my head. Mark wouldn't let me take a break until I got him a girl... perhaps I could use her stupidity to my advantage.
"Yes, we're married, but not many people know. That guy is trying to... uh... steal Kurama away from me. That's why I need you to keep him occupied," I persuaded, nearly choking on my words.
"Aww... that is so romantic! Okay sweety, I'll help you," She said with a smile. I watched in relief as she got to her feet and made her way over to Mark. They exchanged a few words and smiled. Mark looked over to me with a stunned look and a goofy grin. Slowly, I approached them.
"Hiei, how did you get her to like me?" Mark whispered.
"Call it demon charm," I exclaimed with an evil smirk.
"Well... thanks man... you know, I've always dreamed of having a girl like this. You're free to go now," Mark explained. I couldn't believe my ears. Were all humans this gullible?
"Wise choice. Just remember, as soon as this cruise is over, I'm coming after you," I stated, glaring at Mark. Mark smiled, something that baffled me. Did he think I was joking?
"Okay. I'll be ready with more black mail," He promised. A vein popped under my black hair.
"Do that, and I may kill you. If you don't give back those photographs I will kill you," I exclaimed. Mark nodded. Seeing that I was free to go, I left the deck and headed in the direction of the dining hall. I could use some food before I returned to my room. When I reached the doors to the dining room though, I didn't have the chance to open them, for just then, someone came running around the corner.
He was wearing hardly anything- just a small white towel around his waist, and he was completely soaked. What appeared to be whipped cream was dripping down his chest... then I realized, the man was none other than Kurama. As he ran past me, I shouted:
"Oi, kitsune!" Screeching to halt, he turned to me. Instantly, his eyes flooded with relief. Running up to me he said:
"Hiei, you have to hide me! That woman is insane! She sent me to get some chocolate, but I have to get away from her!" He said feverishly. I couldn't help but smile.
"The great Kurama has woman trouble?" I questioned teasingly.
"Hiei, I'm serious! Onegai!" He pleaded. I shook my head.
"If you don't do as that baka says, we'll never get those photos back," I reminded him. To my surprise, Kurama's eyes narrowed and he grabbed me by the shoulder. I felt his nails dig into my skin and I flinched.
"Hiei, even you would not obey her. She wants more from me than just companionship," He hinted viciously. The look in Kurama's eyes startled me. It was if he had turned Yoko.
"All right, I'll assist you, but you owe me," I agreed. Almost immediately, Kurama returned to normal.
"Arigatou! Arigatou gozaimasu!" Kurama thanked me.
"Hn."
The first thing we did was return to my room. For some reason, Kurama couldn't return to his. He said that the woman, Angela was her name, would come looking for him there... so, he would have to borrow some of my black pants.
I sat on my bed while Kurama showered. When he finally came out, a larger towel wrapped around him, I threw him a pair of pants. I turned away as he started to slip them on. Finally, he had them on, but they seemed a little tight. He began to pull up the zipper, but stopped half way. I could hear footsteps outside, but ignored them.
"What's wrong Kurama?" I questioned impatiently.
"It's stuck," He exclaimed as he began moving the zipper up and down.
"Well, pull harder," I ordered. In the back of my mind, I noticed that the footsteps had stopped.
"I can't Hiei- it's too hard. Can you help me?" Kurama asked.
"Do I have to do everything? Okay, fine. I'll pull, you just hold still," I instructed. Walking over to Kurama, I pulled on the zipper with all my strength, but it wouldn't budge. Annoyed, I put some of my ki into the zipper, warming the metal and loosing it.
"Ow, Hiei! That hurts!" Kurama yelped, sucking in his stomach to get away from the hot metal.
"Hold still Kurama- I'm almost finished," I growled in frustration. Putting some more heat into it, I pulled. Kurama yelped again as the zipper touched his stomach, and pulled away violently, causing me to move forward with him. A second later, we fell backwards onto the bed- I was on top of Kurama and glared at him angrily. Just then, the door swung open, revealing Yusuke and Kuwabara.
The two boys stared at us in awe, their eyes wide. Feverishly, I got off of him, and Kurama blushed in embarrassment.
"How long have you been listening?" I hissed angrily.
Yusuke and Kuwabara looked to eachother and grinned. "It's stuck," Yusuke said, mimicking Kurama.
"Well, pull harder!" Kuwabara answered. The two broke out laughing as I reddened in anger. They had heard it all, and I knew that with their minds, a zipper was the last thing they would think of.
"Don't worry Hiei, we won't ask. See you later!" Yusuke bade. With that, the two went down the hall, laughing and carrying on before I had the chance to vent my rage. I looked at Kurama, who smiled sheepishly.
"Well, it isn't stuck anymore!" He said cheerfully.
"Shut up!" I snapped.

* * * * * Throughout the day, Kurama and I wandered the ship, keeping out of people's way and staying in the shadows. We didn't see Angela or Mark, and then finally, dinner time was upon us. Together, Kurama and I returned to the dining hall and found a table. "Thanks Hiei, I appreciate it," Kurama said as we got our food. I just shrugged. "It's not very often that you need rescuing Kurama. I find your situation quite amusing," I stated with a small smile. "I thought you would," Kurama replied with a hint of sarcasm. We ate in silence, acknowledging one another with our spirit energy. It was good to be free again. "Kura-kun! There you are!" A grating voice rang out. Kurama choked on his food and lurched forward to promptly spit it out. After wiping his mouth, we both turned to see Angela the masseuse coming towards us. Kurama looked to me worriedly. I had never seen him act this way because of a human and it disturbed me. Was she as terrible as he made her out to be? What type of power did she possess to make him avoid her completely? I couldn't detect any spirit energy coming from her... perhaps she was a demon in disguise. When she came to our table, I tensed and glared at her. "Kura-kun, you never came back with my chocolate. I got worried. Where have you been? Come back to the room this instant," She ordered. Kurama opened his mouth, but I spoke first. "I have no clue how you are torturing Kurama, but if you want to harm him any further, you have to get through me as well," I challenged her darkly. The girl stared at me in surprise before she began to laugh. "I'm not torturing him silly! We're pleasuring ourselves. I have gone too long without a night of fun and Kurama is the ideal boy toy. Come on Kura, we don't want to be late," She answered. My eyebrows furrowed. Boy toy? She was merely playing with Kurama? I looked to the fox youkai with questioning eyes. He still appeared to be nervous. Something wasn't right. "I don't care. Either way, you'll have to go through me first," I repeated. At this, the girl's eyes narrowed. "He is my slave unless you no longer want the film, so he has to do as I say. Now, if he doesn't come with me, you'll be seeing your pictures all over Japan," She hissed. "You'll be dead before you can get off this ship, so that's highly unlikely," I shot back. "Hiei..." Kurama trailed. Before anyone could say anymore, a new voice broke in. "Leave those two alone!" It pleaded. Curiously, the three of us looked in the direction of the voice. I was astonished to see the girl from earlier- Mark's new girlfriend. "And why should I?" Angela demanded. "Not many people know, but those two are married. It'd be wrong to come between them," She explained. Kurama took on a deadpan expression as he slowly turned to me. "Miss, you're mistaken, Hiei and I-" Before he could get the words out though, I nudged Kurama hard in the ribs. He stopped and looked at me in disbelief. Play along idiot. I thought, praying that'd he'd understand. If he wanted to save himself, he needed to become a better actor. "Hiei and I are only engaged," Kurama finished slowly. "Well, it's still wrong!" Mark's girlfriend declared. Angela looked at the two of us suspiciously. Buy it bitch. Believe it and walk away before I'm forced to hurt you. I thought quietly. But to my dismay, her eyes narrowed suspiciously. "I don't believe you. If you're really engaged, prove it!" She exclaimed. This woman was beginning to get on my last nerve. How did she expect us to prove something like that? Especially since... it wasn't true. "What would you like us to do?" Kurama questioned weakly. With an evil grin, Angela said: "Kiss eachother." "Nani?" I asked. "On the lips." "Nani?!" We repeated together. "If you're really engaged, you must love eachother. Kiss eachother and I promise I'll leave Kurama alone," She promised smugly. Forget it- I'd just kill her now. Reaching for my hidden katana, I prepared myself to attack, but before I got a chance, Kurama leaned over and pressed his lips against mine. I gasped in surprise, only to inhale some of his saliva. I coughed, but it was muffled by Kurama's body. After what seemed like forever, he broke away and turned to Angela. "Satisfied?" He asked calmly. Angela, her eyes wide, just nodded. Reaching into her pocket, she handed Kurama a bottle used for film. Without a word, she turned and walked away. Winking at me flirtatiously, Mark's girlfriend did the same. I turned to Kurama, my eyes twice their normal size and my mouth open. I couldn't believe what had just happened. If he refused to kill me, I'd do it myself for the embarrassment was too much to bear. I had been kissed by my best friend... but not on the cheek, or on accident- on the lips. "Kur..a...ma..." I trailed, unsure of what to say. "Sorry Hiei, I really am, but I was desperate," Kurama apologized. "Right... I understand," I said in a daze of some sort. Suddenly, I felt like I was going to be sick. Getting up from the table, I hurried out of the room and over to the rail of the boat. Disregarding everything around me, I threw up over the rail and stared down at the crashing waves below. I couldn't forget the way it felt to have Kurama's lips against mine. "Disgusting. Does he really have so much spit in his mouth? He could have drowned me!" I fumed angrily. Truthfully, I wasn't mad at Kurama, just surprised. He had caught me completely off guard... but most of all, I had never expected him to do what the woman asked. I closed my eyes and tried not to think of what had just occurred. Kurama hadn't followed. For that, I was grateful. All I wanted to do now was sleep. With my stomach churning, I returned to the room I shared with Kuwabara and plopped down on the soft mattress. "I am not gay!" I yelled into my pillow angrily.
"Good to hear it," A voice teased. I turned to see Kuwabara walk into the room.
"Quiet you- I never asked for your opinion," I snapped. Kuwabara smiled before walking into the bathroom. Shutting my eyes tightly, I crawled under the covers and thought of Japan. I missed sleeping in the trees, the silence of being alone and killing demons to pass the time. I missed my relatively normal life, and I hated being stuck on this cruise with humans.
"What's the point of dying? I'm already in hell," I realized. With that, I fell asleep.