NOTES: Right. Now is the continuation of this crossover. ::glances over
at previous chapter:: ok, it looks alright so far. K' moving on. In this
part, Hiei finally recovers from the poison, but how is he going to get
along with Sanzou and his friends?
BTW, I watched this anime music video from animemusicvideo.org, and it was about Hiei and Yukina and just by watching that song, it made me understand Hiei and Yukina's relationship an little more. I can't remember who made the video unfortunately, but it was sad and sweet.I think the title of the song was "Cry Little Sister"..i think.::sweats:: but anyway, the point is that I finally saw some Yukina/Hiei interaction and it was sweet (after all, I've only seen up to episode 21.what cartoon network's adult swim has aired).
WARNINGS: umm.just put Sanzou and Hiei together is enough of a warning.
ABANDONED CHILDREN
PART III
Breathing.
It was the sound of someone's soft breathing that woke him up. Soft and rhythmic of one who was asleep. For a moment, Hiei wondered who dared to fall asleep in such close proximity to him.and who dared to be holding his hand so affectionately while he was unconscious.
Hiei lifted his hand and clenched it into a fist, preparing to strike at the slumbering figure who clutched at his hand. He hesitated in his attack, the familiar youki of Yukina coolly brushing away the redness of his anger like a feather. Slowly, he opened his eyes, his sight focusing on the pale face and aqua hair of Yukina. She sat on a chair, leaning forward on the bed he apparently lay in, fast asleep, holding his hand with her hair a disheveled mass around her white chiseled face.
Hiei yanked his clenched hand back down to his chest, feeling a sick feeling in the pit of his stomach at the realization that had he not hesitated, he would have struck Yukina.
Gently, so as not to awaken her, he pulled the hand she held away, relinquishing it. Then he took the time to absorb his surroundings. They were in a small room, the walls and floor made of wood. There was a small table that had odd bowls and cloths littering its top. His keen nose smelling a strong scent of some sort of medicinal herb that he could not distinguish. Some on had been sick.
Hiei winced at the thought and reached to the back of his neck, remembering the sharp sting of the poisoned dart. The thought of him being brought down by a mere poisonous dart was humiliating and unforgivable. The only reason he survived was.
Hiei looked back the slumbering Yukina. He vaguely remembered the conversation they had near the riverbank. It annoyed him, for he knew something very important had passed between them, a special memory that he wished to treasure in the depths of his black soul.
A stray strand of hair fell over Yukina's closed eyes. Without thinking, Hiei reached over to brush that obscuring strand away, but stopped cold when he looked at his bandaged hand. Was it not the very same hand that Hiei had nearly struck her with? He hissed, and violently got off the bed, shaking off a wave of dizziness that made him feel unbalanced. He had enough of his weakness.
His black coat was gone; he remembered that he had not worn it that day when everything got screwed up. So now he wore only his black sleeveless shirt, pants and boots. He tightened his wards on his arm, and readjusted his bandanna that had been slightly loose. Now if only he had his sword.
Yukina whimpered, causing Hiei to look at her again. She would surely wake up with a sore neck if she stayed in that uncomfortable position. Hiei went to her, and as gently as he could, lifted Yukina up without waking her, and placed her fully on the bed, pulling the thin quilt over her. She snuggled into the mattress, sighing contently, looking as innocent and as pure as ever.
For a moment, Hiei wondered if he ever had that look on his face.that innocence.that purity. Maybe.while he slept in his mother's arms before he was thrown off the Koorime Island.maybe he had looked just as Yukina did. Not anymore.
Yet, behind that innocence and purity that defined Yukina was a strength and determination that matched his own. How else had Yukina managed to escape while carrying him? It was the same strength that bore her through her imprisonment and torture. The same strength that made her stand straight without a trace of fear when that strange monk was aiming that gun at her.
No, Yukina, you are anything but weak.
Speaking of that monk, he remembered, quite vividly, that he swore to kill him.
"They will not harm me, Hiei-san. Now rest, and when you have healed everything will make sense."
Riiiiight. That was what Yukina had told him to calm him down. Well, he was awake, and healed, yet still things did not make sense. Hiei sighed and walked over to the small window across from the bed. Peering suspiciously through the glass, he found himself looking at a very medieval looking village. People in peasant clothes went about their business, some pulling wooden carts behind them, others going about buying food and other goods from small stalls.
What the Hell happened to Tokyo and its tall glass buildings, cars, sardine squished people, and loud music?
"We were supposed to capture a creature from the Infernal Land, which has immense youki with fire, but instead we got a Youkai boy with immense fire youki."
A summoning spell gone wrong. Understandable. But that still didn't explain where they were summoned to. He knew that there were different worlds out there. He knew of the Makai, and the Spirit World, and of course the Human World. Then there was that stupid Netherworld. But this place.this world did not fit into any of those categories.
Hiei smirked, suddenly thinking of Koenma running around like crazy trying to find him. What would Koenma have to say about his discovery of another world? There was also the problem of his probation. The stupid thing hadn't lifted yet, and knowing Koenma, the little shrimp of a God would lengthen the time.
"Hey Hakkai, I wanna go in and give Yukina-chan lunch!"
Hiei scowled and looked toward the closed door, listening to the voices on the other end.
"Alright, Alright. Just be careful. You don't want to drop Yukina-chan's lunch, do you?"
"I'll be careful! And besides, I NEVER drop food!"
There was a light knock, then the door opened slightly. Hiei glared at the two who entered (who also froze at seeing his fiery glare). One was a man, with short dark hair, and green eyes, wearing a monocle over his right eye and three odd clasps on his left ear. He was smiling, a calm serene smile with both his eyes shut. He looked human, but Hiei could tell easily that he was a Youkai. Strong and sharp, Hiei could tell he had to be wary of him. Like Kurama who smiled and spoke softly, underneath that obscenely sweet grin was something diabolical and ruthless.
The other was a golden-eyed boy, with wild brown hair, and a golden diadem that Hiei felt immense power coming from it. But it wasn't the boy's headgear that held him where he stood.
That boy.he could not forget those golden eyes.
"I won't let you touch Sanzou!"
The boy was strong, and would be a very formidable adversary indeed, and that diadem.Hiei could tell immediately that it was a sort of ward to hold back whatever power the boy possessed. There was also something off about him, as if he was shrouded in a cloud so that Hiei could not tell what it was he was not seeing. Whatever it was, it was ominous and Hiei was not sure he wanted to go through it.
The dark haired man suddenly spoke, "Oh good, you're awake, Hiei-san. Yukina-chan was very worried about you."
It irked Hiei at the fact that they knew his name. "Who the Hell are you?"
The man smiled at him, unfazed by his ire. "I am Cho Hakkai, and this is Son Goku. We helped save you and Yukina-chan when you were attacked."
What.
Hiei laughed at this, startling the two. "Who do you think you're kidding? The only one who attacked us was that blond monk whom I'm going to rip to shreds once I see him again." He then looked straight at boy, Son Goku. "I particularly remember you wanting to join the monk as well."
Goku glared at him, slamming the tray of food on the small table and said, "Look you, if it wasn't for Sanzou and us, you and Yukina-chan would be dead!"
Hiei stiffened suddenly, remembering that Empress Gyokumen's words: "You are powerful, Hiei, just like your name. You will help me to retrieve the sutra that Humora took from me, and the sutra that the human Genjo Sanzou wears on his shoulders."
Truly.what an odd twist of fate.
"Hiei-san?" Hiei jerked slightly and looked back to the bed, only to find Yukina sitting up and looking straight at him. The Koorime maiden suddenly lurched out of the bed and lunged at him, her hands reaching to envelope him in a hug.
But it never came. Yukina stopped right before him, her red eyes shining with happiness at his well-being. "Oh, Hiei-san! I'm so glad you're awake!"
Hiei was very aware of the two other occupants in the room. "Hn," he grunted and looked the other way.
Behind Yukina, Goku looked up at Hakkai and said, "Is it possible for him to be another Sanzou?"
Hakkai laughed nervously and replied, "I doubt that there is anyone like Sanzou, Goku."
Hiei looked at Yukina and demanded, "Why are we with our attackers?"
"Our.attackers?" Yukina blinked at him uncomprehendingly for a moment, and then she smiled gently at him. "No Hiei-san. They are not our attackers."
Hiei could not believe what he was hearing. "I remember a blond monk about to shoot you in the head with a gun, and that idiot boy defending him!" He growled.
Yukina shook her head at him and said, "That was only a misunderstanding. Let me tell you what happened."
And she did. Hiei could only stand in concealed horror at what she related to him. Humans, who had thought the two of them behind the destruction of their village, had attacked her had nearly killed her.they had actually wounded her while he was unconscious. It was inexcusable. To top it all, these strangers saved her. And the irony was that these strangers were the companions of the man Empress Gyokumen wanted him to kill and steal the sutras.
Once she was done, all Hiei could do was clench his hand and pretend that he didn't care.
"Hiei.are you hungry? Look, Goku-san brought up some food."
Goku opened his mouth to protest, while Hakkai said in agreement, "You're still recovering and need to replenish your strength, Hiei."
Hiei could only stare at the man in disbelief. Who did he think he was telling him what to do? Grinding his teeth he stomped past a startled Yukina and right in between the two who were in his way, forcing them to step aside or be shoved out of his way. He went to the door and opened it saying without looking back, "Yukina,"
"Yes?" She replied.
"Sleep. When you wake up, we're leaving."
"But."
Hiei wouldn't hear it. He was in no mood to be contradicted, so he simply walked away, ignoring her protests. He made his way down a wooden stairway to a main room. It was an inn, with tables neatly placed in various areas of the room. At the bar, a grizzled human man was wiping the table with chaffed hands, while a familiar blonde monk sat at one of the tables at the center of the room, smoking, and with his nose buried in a newspaper.
He went rigid, the memory of the man pointing a gun at Yukina's head still fresh in his memories. But then.remembering what Yukina had told him hr figured the human had every right. He was Genjo Sanzou, a high-class monk and protector of one of the Holy Sutras that he wore draped over his shoulders. He and his three companions were on a holy mission west, and Youkai sought to kill him and steal the scroll. If Hiei was in his position, he'd have reacted the same way. They were the same, and Hiei did not like it one bit.
The monk lowered his paper and gave Hiei a cold dispassionate look. Hiei scowled and approached the man, feeling odd at how much spirit energy the man was emitting. This human's spirit powers far surpassed the idiot Kuwabara's. Hiei then remembered the boy, Goku's diadem also let off a lot of spirit energy.it was almost as if Koenma, or even his father King Enma were present.
For a brief moment, Hiei hesitated before approaching the man. Without asking, he pulled up a chair and sat himself across from the monk, and with his arms crossed over his chest, he waited for the human to initiate whatever was to come next.
Genjo Sanzou did not beat around the bush.
"Are you going to try to kill me again?"
Hiei glared, "Are you going to be threatening Yukina again?"
Sanzou snorted and folded his paper and crushed his cigarette in an ashtray on the table. "Tell me," said the monk, "do you know Kougaji?"
How could he forget the one Youkai who showed some kind of honor? "What's it to you?" Demanded Hiei irritably, finding the human way too arrogant for his tastes.
"Are you after the sutra?"
Hiei looked to the white and green scroll that was draped over Sanzou's shoulders noting that it too emitted a large amount of energy. Hiei shrugged, "I have no need for it, and I want nothing to do with whatever is revolving around it."
Sanzou narrowed his eyes and said lowly, "It's a little too late for that. Yukina said that you escaped after being kidnapped, and that you were to come after me. Like it or not, you're already involved." He stood, but Hiei did not look at him, opting to keep a nonchalant expression on his hard face as Sanzou continued, "What do you plan to do if you are pursued?"
Beginning to tire of Sanzou's superior attitude, Hiei stood as well and showed his fangs menacingly, "Anyone who comes near me or Yukina dies, human; it's that simple."
"You think you can take care of yourself?" Mocked Sanzou, his thin lips curling slightly in a dark grin of amusement. "You think you can survive on your own out there and manage to protect Yukina at the same time?" He scoffed, "Idiot brat."
The door of the inn suddenly opened, halting Hiei from rashly tearing Sanzou limb from limb. In walked a familiar figure, and Hiei felt himself stiffen again. It was the tall red head with the twin scars on his cheek and red eyes. It really irked Hiei at the memory of waking up being carried by the man instead of awakening to the security of his companions. It was weak of him, but he had become accustomed to being backed up by his friends when things got bad for him. It was something that he had to remedy quickly, for now he no longer had the luxury of dependable friends.
The tall man strutted over lazily to the blonde monk and handed him a pack of cigarettes saying, "They only had one pack left, you lucky bastard." He then turned his red eyes to Hiei and quirked an equally red eyebrow up. "So sleeping beauty joins the land of the living, eh? You have a cute sister."
Hiei went cold all over at these words, his eyes widening measurably as he stared at the man. "What did you say?" He asked, trying not to let his voice shake in the slightest. How could this total stranger guess?
The man looked at him severely, "You must be some kind of bastard or something, cause that sweet thing won't even admit that you're her brother. She must be real mad at you or something."
"What," grated Hiei, "makes you think that she's my sister?"
The man groaned dramatically and threw himself into a chair groaning, "We all know your little secret, kid. Both of you are like me, though I still don't understand how you could color your hair so efficiently. I mean, both of you were in the water and your hair color didn't change."
Hiei stared at the man, noting that he had an odd youki, not totally Youkai, but not human either.odd. But whatever odd creature he was, he still was not making sense, so Hiei turned to Sanzou who had sat back down and lighting a new cigarette.
"Gojyo, is part Youkai and part human," explained Sanzou after a long silence, "and that is why he has the red hair and eyes."
Hiei blinked at both men, "What does that have to do with me?"
Sanzou flicked some ashes into the ashtray on the table saying, "We believe that you and Yukina are both the same. After all, only beings of that unique lineage have red eyes like yours."
Hiei started to chuckle at this, shaking his head and sitting himself back down across from the men. "Sorry, I have no human blood, and neither does Yukina for that matter. I am a pure fire Youkai," he lied, "and Yukina is a pure Koorime, and we are not related at all."
Gojyo opened his mouth to say something, but Sanzou interrupted him, "Forget it. He wants to be an idiot, let him."
Hiei felt his temper rising again. "I'm really getting tired of you talking down to me, human," he hissed. "You have no idea who you're messing with."
"SANZOU!"
Hiei nearly fell off his seat when Goku suddenly appeared between him and monk, pulling at the blonde man's sleeve imploringly whining, "Sanzou.I'm sooooo hungry! It's been two hours already!"
Hiei's jaw literally dropped when Sanzou pulled out his gun and pointed it between the boy's eyes growling, "Shut up or drop dead! You'll wait like the rest of us!"
So.that was how it was. Hiei felt a smile tug at his lips, for now he was beginning to understand by just watching Goku laugh nervously while his stomach growled in protest, making Sanzou groan. From the side, Hakkai came down the stairs, followed by a sad looking Yukina. She lifted her head slightly and their eyes met for a moment before she looked away, looking even more dejected.
Hiei flinched when Goku abruptly poked him on the arm, saying in a whisper that was loud enough for everyone in the room to hear, "Yukina is afraid to tell you that she wants to stay with us."
Hiei gaped at the other boy, staring at Goku's guileless golden orbs before turning to a now horrified looking Yukina. Hakkai placed a gentle hand on her shoulder and pulled a seat out for her to sit which she took, hiding her eyes behind the safety of her bangs. Hiei leaned forward slightly, and tried to keep the distress he was feeling from betraying him as he asked as brusquely as possible, "Why would you be afraid of me?"
Yukina's silence sent an unfamiliar sharp pain lancing through his chest and take away his breath. He noticed that all four men were looking at him, waiting to see how he was going to handle the situation. It angered him that such a thing would happen in front of these untrustworthy strangers. He was uncomfortable, and unsure of what to do and found himself wishing that Kurama was there, for the other Youkai knew how to handle these things better and would be able to tell him. Even Yuuske would have been able to break the atmosphere and save him.
Truly, he no longer had the luxury of depending on his comrades. He was on his own.except this time he had Yukina to protect.
"Have I done anything to make you fear me?" He asked suddenly.
Yukina's head shot up and she said quickly, "No! I know that you would never hurt me, Hiei.its just." she trailed off and twisted her hands on her lap, "I just don't think that we should leave Sanzou-san and his friends."
Hiei blinked, taking into consideration what she was saying. "Why would you want to stay with these idiots? Don't you want to go back home to your Kuwabara?" He knew he was being harsh, but he could not help it. He could not see any reason for staying.
"Watch who're you calling an 'idiot' kid!" Growled Gojyo, "What's with kids these days? No respect for their elders. Just look at the monkey here."
Goku leapt at the red haired half-breed, grabbing him by the front of his blue vest howling, "Don't call me a 'monkey' you perverted red-cockroach!"
Both then proceeded to grapple, hissing and clawing at each other and making quite a scene. Hiei could not believe that these two idiots would start fighting right when he was trying to be serious with his sister. Of course, they didn't know that she was his sister, but they had to be really dense not to realize that something heavy was going on.
"Shut-up!" Snarled Hiei and Sanzou at the same time, causing everyone at the table, including themselves, to jump in amazement and shock. Hiei stared at the monk who was giving him a disturbed look that Hiei could not decipher. Yukina giggled suddenly, covering her mirth with a dainty hand over her mouth. Hakkai too was coughing, trying to not laugh.
Goku and Gojyo on the other hand found nothing amusing about it. "That," said Gojyo pointing at Hiei and Sanzou, "was about the freakiest thing I've ever seen."
"Hiei-san," whispered Yukina getting his attention, "I know you have more experience in this that me, but.but I think it would be safer for the both of us if we stayed with Sanzou-san. They are strong, and will help us find a way to get back. Hakkai-san said so."
"He did, did he?" Said Sanzou.
Hakkai laughed nervously, "Well, her story was such a sad one, Sanzou, and besides, if I understand their story correctly, Kougaji is the one that can probably send them back."
Hiei looked at the dark haired man, acknowledging reluctantly that the man was sharp. "Kougaji accidentally summoned me, at least that was what that bitch told me, so he should probably be able to send us back. Is that what you're saying?"
"Exactly!"
"And what does Kougaji have to do with us staying with you four?" Asked Hiei.
Hakkai replied, "You see, Hiei, we are heading west and west is where Kougaji is."
"Besides," interjected Gojyo, "we always run into that guy, or his little sister, so if you stick with us your bound to meet him sooner or later."
Now there was a point that Hiei could consider. He looked to Yukina and saw her gazing at him hopefully with her very large red eyes. He smirked, showing a bit of fang, "Fine. We'll stick with you." His smirk became feral as he looked straight at Sanzou, "But listen, monk, don't assume that you now have any control over me. As I said before, you have no idea who you're messing with."
Hiei had to leap back when a white blur with wings and red eyes flew just over his head, landing on the table and beeping quite adorably. Yukina made a cute squeal and gentle took the creature into her arms, petting its long neck gently as it crooned in content. "Hiei," she said happily, "this is Hakaryuu, Hakkai-san's dragon. He can turn into a green jeep that they all ride!"
Hakaryuu was a beautiful yet small white-scaled dragon. Slim bodied with large leathery wings that he had folded against his body, and red rubies as eyes. Hakaryuu was a baby dragon, cute and adorable, just as Yukina liked her animals, but the dragon was not totally helpless. Hiei could already sense a fighter's spirit within his small body, something that could come in handy to the four journeying men when he matures.
He chuckled and lifted his bandaged arm and rubbed it, saying, "I have my own dragon, but unfortunately, he would rather destroy everything that moves than cuddle with others."
"Really?" Asked Goku gullibly. "Where is it? I want to see it! It must be really cool and strong!"
Hiei paused at this, thinking. Cool and strong to him maybe, but to whoever on the other side it meant certain death. "Maybe if you get on my nerves you'll meet him."
Goku blinked at him, "Really? Would you really let me fight him?"
Hiei nearly fell over at this, "You idiot! My Kokaryuu would burn you till not even your ashes existed!"
If possible, Goku's eyes became crystallized and shimmering, "Really? Cool, cool, cool! I have got to see him! Kokaryuu is his name? Black Dragon?"
Hiei stared at him, then looked at the other men in disbelief. Sanzou looked like he was rummaging through his robe for something, and ugly vein throbbing at his temple, Hakkai still wore his jester's grin, and Gojyo was looking at him curiously, a cigarette dangling from his lips. Yukina on the other hand was looking at him in disapproval while she continued petting and obliviously happy Hakaryuu.
What the hell?! What did he do?!
"Hiei-san," said Yukina, "I hope you're not planning on using that attack on Goku."
Hiei's jaw dropped open at her words. Was she chastising him? Him? HIM???!!!!
Gojyo then had to make things worse by opening his big mouth, "Aren't they cute? The brother and sister are arguing."
"We aren't brother and sister!"
Hiei flinched, his breath catching painfully, noticing Yukina had turned deathly pale. Somehow, both of them had shouted the same thing, denying any relation what so ever. And it hurt. It hurt to hear those denying words come from her mouth. But what did he expect? Why would she want a murdering brother? He did not deserve her love.
With an ill contained snarl, Hiei shoved himself off the table and stomped to the door of the inn. Without turning he asked, "When are you going to leave?"
"In a couple of hours," replied Sanzou.
Hiei nodded his head and opened the door and stepped out with Goku running after him crying, "Hey! Wait a minute! I wanna see you're Black Dragon! Wait!!"
But Hiei did not feel like waiting, and wished the annoying golden-eyed boy would just leave him alone, because.he had to deal with the sharp pain in his chest that made it hard to breath.
TO BE CONTINUED.hehe
Naaaaa..what do you all think? Hope nobody was out of character or anything.
Next time: who will Hiei and Goku meet while jumping roof tops (Hiei trying to loose Goku, and Goku determined to see the Black Dragon).
Heheh.ooh how the plot thickens.
Sarlinia
BTW, I watched this anime music video from animemusicvideo.org, and it was about Hiei and Yukina and just by watching that song, it made me understand Hiei and Yukina's relationship an little more. I can't remember who made the video unfortunately, but it was sad and sweet.I think the title of the song was "Cry Little Sister"..i think.::sweats:: but anyway, the point is that I finally saw some Yukina/Hiei interaction and it was sweet (after all, I've only seen up to episode 21.what cartoon network's adult swim has aired).
WARNINGS: umm.just put Sanzou and Hiei together is enough of a warning.
ABANDONED CHILDREN
PART III
Breathing.
It was the sound of someone's soft breathing that woke him up. Soft and rhythmic of one who was asleep. For a moment, Hiei wondered who dared to fall asleep in such close proximity to him.and who dared to be holding his hand so affectionately while he was unconscious.
Hiei lifted his hand and clenched it into a fist, preparing to strike at the slumbering figure who clutched at his hand. He hesitated in his attack, the familiar youki of Yukina coolly brushing away the redness of his anger like a feather. Slowly, he opened his eyes, his sight focusing on the pale face and aqua hair of Yukina. She sat on a chair, leaning forward on the bed he apparently lay in, fast asleep, holding his hand with her hair a disheveled mass around her white chiseled face.
Hiei yanked his clenched hand back down to his chest, feeling a sick feeling in the pit of his stomach at the realization that had he not hesitated, he would have struck Yukina.
Gently, so as not to awaken her, he pulled the hand she held away, relinquishing it. Then he took the time to absorb his surroundings. They were in a small room, the walls and floor made of wood. There was a small table that had odd bowls and cloths littering its top. His keen nose smelling a strong scent of some sort of medicinal herb that he could not distinguish. Some on had been sick.
Hiei winced at the thought and reached to the back of his neck, remembering the sharp sting of the poisoned dart. The thought of him being brought down by a mere poisonous dart was humiliating and unforgivable. The only reason he survived was.
Hiei looked back the slumbering Yukina. He vaguely remembered the conversation they had near the riverbank. It annoyed him, for he knew something very important had passed between them, a special memory that he wished to treasure in the depths of his black soul.
A stray strand of hair fell over Yukina's closed eyes. Without thinking, Hiei reached over to brush that obscuring strand away, but stopped cold when he looked at his bandaged hand. Was it not the very same hand that Hiei had nearly struck her with? He hissed, and violently got off the bed, shaking off a wave of dizziness that made him feel unbalanced. He had enough of his weakness.
His black coat was gone; he remembered that he had not worn it that day when everything got screwed up. So now he wore only his black sleeveless shirt, pants and boots. He tightened his wards on his arm, and readjusted his bandanna that had been slightly loose. Now if only he had his sword.
Yukina whimpered, causing Hiei to look at her again. She would surely wake up with a sore neck if she stayed in that uncomfortable position. Hiei went to her, and as gently as he could, lifted Yukina up without waking her, and placed her fully on the bed, pulling the thin quilt over her. She snuggled into the mattress, sighing contently, looking as innocent and as pure as ever.
For a moment, Hiei wondered if he ever had that look on his face.that innocence.that purity. Maybe.while he slept in his mother's arms before he was thrown off the Koorime Island.maybe he had looked just as Yukina did. Not anymore.
Yet, behind that innocence and purity that defined Yukina was a strength and determination that matched his own. How else had Yukina managed to escape while carrying him? It was the same strength that bore her through her imprisonment and torture. The same strength that made her stand straight without a trace of fear when that strange monk was aiming that gun at her.
No, Yukina, you are anything but weak.
Speaking of that monk, he remembered, quite vividly, that he swore to kill him.
"They will not harm me, Hiei-san. Now rest, and when you have healed everything will make sense."
Riiiiight. That was what Yukina had told him to calm him down. Well, he was awake, and healed, yet still things did not make sense. Hiei sighed and walked over to the small window across from the bed. Peering suspiciously through the glass, he found himself looking at a very medieval looking village. People in peasant clothes went about their business, some pulling wooden carts behind them, others going about buying food and other goods from small stalls.
What the Hell happened to Tokyo and its tall glass buildings, cars, sardine squished people, and loud music?
"We were supposed to capture a creature from the Infernal Land, which has immense youki with fire, but instead we got a Youkai boy with immense fire youki."
A summoning spell gone wrong. Understandable. But that still didn't explain where they were summoned to. He knew that there were different worlds out there. He knew of the Makai, and the Spirit World, and of course the Human World. Then there was that stupid Netherworld. But this place.this world did not fit into any of those categories.
Hiei smirked, suddenly thinking of Koenma running around like crazy trying to find him. What would Koenma have to say about his discovery of another world? There was also the problem of his probation. The stupid thing hadn't lifted yet, and knowing Koenma, the little shrimp of a God would lengthen the time.
"Hey Hakkai, I wanna go in and give Yukina-chan lunch!"
Hiei scowled and looked toward the closed door, listening to the voices on the other end.
"Alright, Alright. Just be careful. You don't want to drop Yukina-chan's lunch, do you?"
"I'll be careful! And besides, I NEVER drop food!"
There was a light knock, then the door opened slightly. Hiei glared at the two who entered (who also froze at seeing his fiery glare). One was a man, with short dark hair, and green eyes, wearing a monocle over his right eye and three odd clasps on his left ear. He was smiling, a calm serene smile with both his eyes shut. He looked human, but Hiei could tell easily that he was a Youkai. Strong and sharp, Hiei could tell he had to be wary of him. Like Kurama who smiled and spoke softly, underneath that obscenely sweet grin was something diabolical and ruthless.
The other was a golden-eyed boy, with wild brown hair, and a golden diadem that Hiei felt immense power coming from it. But it wasn't the boy's headgear that held him where he stood.
That boy.he could not forget those golden eyes.
"I won't let you touch Sanzou!"
The boy was strong, and would be a very formidable adversary indeed, and that diadem.Hiei could tell immediately that it was a sort of ward to hold back whatever power the boy possessed. There was also something off about him, as if he was shrouded in a cloud so that Hiei could not tell what it was he was not seeing. Whatever it was, it was ominous and Hiei was not sure he wanted to go through it.
The dark haired man suddenly spoke, "Oh good, you're awake, Hiei-san. Yukina-chan was very worried about you."
It irked Hiei at the fact that they knew his name. "Who the Hell are you?"
The man smiled at him, unfazed by his ire. "I am Cho Hakkai, and this is Son Goku. We helped save you and Yukina-chan when you were attacked."
What.
Hiei laughed at this, startling the two. "Who do you think you're kidding? The only one who attacked us was that blond monk whom I'm going to rip to shreds once I see him again." He then looked straight at boy, Son Goku. "I particularly remember you wanting to join the monk as well."
Goku glared at him, slamming the tray of food on the small table and said, "Look you, if it wasn't for Sanzou and us, you and Yukina-chan would be dead!"
Hiei stiffened suddenly, remembering that Empress Gyokumen's words: "You are powerful, Hiei, just like your name. You will help me to retrieve the sutra that Humora took from me, and the sutra that the human Genjo Sanzou wears on his shoulders."
Truly.what an odd twist of fate.
"Hiei-san?" Hiei jerked slightly and looked back to the bed, only to find Yukina sitting up and looking straight at him. The Koorime maiden suddenly lurched out of the bed and lunged at him, her hands reaching to envelope him in a hug.
But it never came. Yukina stopped right before him, her red eyes shining with happiness at his well-being. "Oh, Hiei-san! I'm so glad you're awake!"
Hiei was very aware of the two other occupants in the room. "Hn," he grunted and looked the other way.
Behind Yukina, Goku looked up at Hakkai and said, "Is it possible for him to be another Sanzou?"
Hakkai laughed nervously and replied, "I doubt that there is anyone like Sanzou, Goku."
Hiei looked at Yukina and demanded, "Why are we with our attackers?"
"Our.attackers?" Yukina blinked at him uncomprehendingly for a moment, and then she smiled gently at him. "No Hiei-san. They are not our attackers."
Hiei could not believe what he was hearing. "I remember a blond monk about to shoot you in the head with a gun, and that idiot boy defending him!" He growled.
Yukina shook her head at him and said, "That was only a misunderstanding. Let me tell you what happened."
And she did. Hiei could only stand in concealed horror at what she related to him. Humans, who had thought the two of them behind the destruction of their village, had attacked her had nearly killed her.they had actually wounded her while he was unconscious. It was inexcusable. To top it all, these strangers saved her. And the irony was that these strangers were the companions of the man Empress Gyokumen wanted him to kill and steal the sutras.
Once she was done, all Hiei could do was clench his hand and pretend that he didn't care.
"Hiei.are you hungry? Look, Goku-san brought up some food."
Goku opened his mouth to protest, while Hakkai said in agreement, "You're still recovering and need to replenish your strength, Hiei."
Hiei could only stare at the man in disbelief. Who did he think he was telling him what to do? Grinding his teeth he stomped past a startled Yukina and right in between the two who were in his way, forcing them to step aside or be shoved out of his way. He went to the door and opened it saying without looking back, "Yukina,"
"Yes?" She replied.
"Sleep. When you wake up, we're leaving."
"But."
Hiei wouldn't hear it. He was in no mood to be contradicted, so he simply walked away, ignoring her protests. He made his way down a wooden stairway to a main room. It was an inn, with tables neatly placed in various areas of the room. At the bar, a grizzled human man was wiping the table with chaffed hands, while a familiar blonde monk sat at one of the tables at the center of the room, smoking, and with his nose buried in a newspaper.
He went rigid, the memory of the man pointing a gun at Yukina's head still fresh in his memories. But then.remembering what Yukina had told him hr figured the human had every right. He was Genjo Sanzou, a high-class monk and protector of one of the Holy Sutras that he wore draped over his shoulders. He and his three companions were on a holy mission west, and Youkai sought to kill him and steal the scroll. If Hiei was in his position, he'd have reacted the same way. They were the same, and Hiei did not like it one bit.
The monk lowered his paper and gave Hiei a cold dispassionate look. Hiei scowled and approached the man, feeling odd at how much spirit energy the man was emitting. This human's spirit powers far surpassed the idiot Kuwabara's. Hiei then remembered the boy, Goku's diadem also let off a lot of spirit energy.it was almost as if Koenma, or even his father King Enma were present.
For a brief moment, Hiei hesitated before approaching the man. Without asking, he pulled up a chair and sat himself across from the monk, and with his arms crossed over his chest, he waited for the human to initiate whatever was to come next.
Genjo Sanzou did not beat around the bush.
"Are you going to try to kill me again?"
Hiei glared, "Are you going to be threatening Yukina again?"
Sanzou snorted and folded his paper and crushed his cigarette in an ashtray on the table. "Tell me," said the monk, "do you know Kougaji?"
How could he forget the one Youkai who showed some kind of honor? "What's it to you?" Demanded Hiei irritably, finding the human way too arrogant for his tastes.
"Are you after the sutra?"
Hiei looked to the white and green scroll that was draped over Sanzou's shoulders noting that it too emitted a large amount of energy. Hiei shrugged, "I have no need for it, and I want nothing to do with whatever is revolving around it."
Sanzou narrowed his eyes and said lowly, "It's a little too late for that. Yukina said that you escaped after being kidnapped, and that you were to come after me. Like it or not, you're already involved." He stood, but Hiei did not look at him, opting to keep a nonchalant expression on his hard face as Sanzou continued, "What do you plan to do if you are pursued?"
Beginning to tire of Sanzou's superior attitude, Hiei stood as well and showed his fangs menacingly, "Anyone who comes near me or Yukina dies, human; it's that simple."
"You think you can take care of yourself?" Mocked Sanzou, his thin lips curling slightly in a dark grin of amusement. "You think you can survive on your own out there and manage to protect Yukina at the same time?" He scoffed, "Idiot brat."
The door of the inn suddenly opened, halting Hiei from rashly tearing Sanzou limb from limb. In walked a familiar figure, and Hiei felt himself stiffen again. It was the tall red head with the twin scars on his cheek and red eyes. It really irked Hiei at the memory of waking up being carried by the man instead of awakening to the security of his companions. It was weak of him, but he had become accustomed to being backed up by his friends when things got bad for him. It was something that he had to remedy quickly, for now he no longer had the luxury of dependable friends.
The tall man strutted over lazily to the blonde monk and handed him a pack of cigarettes saying, "They only had one pack left, you lucky bastard." He then turned his red eyes to Hiei and quirked an equally red eyebrow up. "So sleeping beauty joins the land of the living, eh? You have a cute sister."
Hiei went cold all over at these words, his eyes widening measurably as he stared at the man. "What did you say?" He asked, trying not to let his voice shake in the slightest. How could this total stranger guess?
The man looked at him severely, "You must be some kind of bastard or something, cause that sweet thing won't even admit that you're her brother. She must be real mad at you or something."
"What," grated Hiei, "makes you think that she's my sister?"
The man groaned dramatically and threw himself into a chair groaning, "We all know your little secret, kid. Both of you are like me, though I still don't understand how you could color your hair so efficiently. I mean, both of you were in the water and your hair color didn't change."
Hiei stared at the man, noting that he had an odd youki, not totally Youkai, but not human either.odd. But whatever odd creature he was, he still was not making sense, so Hiei turned to Sanzou who had sat back down and lighting a new cigarette.
"Gojyo, is part Youkai and part human," explained Sanzou after a long silence, "and that is why he has the red hair and eyes."
Hiei blinked at both men, "What does that have to do with me?"
Sanzou flicked some ashes into the ashtray on the table saying, "We believe that you and Yukina are both the same. After all, only beings of that unique lineage have red eyes like yours."
Hiei started to chuckle at this, shaking his head and sitting himself back down across from the men. "Sorry, I have no human blood, and neither does Yukina for that matter. I am a pure fire Youkai," he lied, "and Yukina is a pure Koorime, and we are not related at all."
Gojyo opened his mouth to say something, but Sanzou interrupted him, "Forget it. He wants to be an idiot, let him."
Hiei felt his temper rising again. "I'm really getting tired of you talking down to me, human," he hissed. "You have no idea who you're messing with."
"SANZOU!"
Hiei nearly fell off his seat when Goku suddenly appeared between him and monk, pulling at the blonde man's sleeve imploringly whining, "Sanzou.I'm sooooo hungry! It's been two hours already!"
Hiei's jaw literally dropped when Sanzou pulled out his gun and pointed it between the boy's eyes growling, "Shut up or drop dead! You'll wait like the rest of us!"
So.that was how it was. Hiei felt a smile tug at his lips, for now he was beginning to understand by just watching Goku laugh nervously while his stomach growled in protest, making Sanzou groan. From the side, Hakkai came down the stairs, followed by a sad looking Yukina. She lifted her head slightly and their eyes met for a moment before she looked away, looking even more dejected.
Hiei flinched when Goku abruptly poked him on the arm, saying in a whisper that was loud enough for everyone in the room to hear, "Yukina is afraid to tell you that she wants to stay with us."
Hiei gaped at the other boy, staring at Goku's guileless golden orbs before turning to a now horrified looking Yukina. Hakkai placed a gentle hand on her shoulder and pulled a seat out for her to sit which she took, hiding her eyes behind the safety of her bangs. Hiei leaned forward slightly, and tried to keep the distress he was feeling from betraying him as he asked as brusquely as possible, "Why would you be afraid of me?"
Yukina's silence sent an unfamiliar sharp pain lancing through his chest and take away his breath. He noticed that all four men were looking at him, waiting to see how he was going to handle the situation. It angered him that such a thing would happen in front of these untrustworthy strangers. He was uncomfortable, and unsure of what to do and found himself wishing that Kurama was there, for the other Youkai knew how to handle these things better and would be able to tell him. Even Yuuske would have been able to break the atmosphere and save him.
Truly, he no longer had the luxury of depending on his comrades. He was on his own.except this time he had Yukina to protect.
"Have I done anything to make you fear me?" He asked suddenly.
Yukina's head shot up and she said quickly, "No! I know that you would never hurt me, Hiei.its just." she trailed off and twisted her hands on her lap, "I just don't think that we should leave Sanzou-san and his friends."
Hiei blinked, taking into consideration what she was saying. "Why would you want to stay with these idiots? Don't you want to go back home to your Kuwabara?" He knew he was being harsh, but he could not help it. He could not see any reason for staying.
"Watch who're you calling an 'idiot' kid!" Growled Gojyo, "What's with kids these days? No respect for their elders. Just look at the monkey here."
Goku leapt at the red haired half-breed, grabbing him by the front of his blue vest howling, "Don't call me a 'monkey' you perverted red-cockroach!"
Both then proceeded to grapple, hissing and clawing at each other and making quite a scene. Hiei could not believe that these two idiots would start fighting right when he was trying to be serious with his sister. Of course, they didn't know that she was his sister, but they had to be really dense not to realize that something heavy was going on.
"Shut-up!" Snarled Hiei and Sanzou at the same time, causing everyone at the table, including themselves, to jump in amazement and shock. Hiei stared at the monk who was giving him a disturbed look that Hiei could not decipher. Yukina giggled suddenly, covering her mirth with a dainty hand over her mouth. Hakkai too was coughing, trying to not laugh.
Goku and Gojyo on the other hand found nothing amusing about it. "That," said Gojyo pointing at Hiei and Sanzou, "was about the freakiest thing I've ever seen."
"Hiei-san," whispered Yukina getting his attention, "I know you have more experience in this that me, but.but I think it would be safer for the both of us if we stayed with Sanzou-san. They are strong, and will help us find a way to get back. Hakkai-san said so."
"He did, did he?" Said Sanzou.
Hakkai laughed nervously, "Well, her story was such a sad one, Sanzou, and besides, if I understand their story correctly, Kougaji is the one that can probably send them back."
Hiei looked at the dark haired man, acknowledging reluctantly that the man was sharp. "Kougaji accidentally summoned me, at least that was what that bitch told me, so he should probably be able to send us back. Is that what you're saying?"
"Exactly!"
"And what does Kougaji have to do with us staying with you four?" Asked Hiei.
Hakkai replied, "You see, Hiei, we are heading west and west is where Kougaji is."
"Besides," interjected Gojyo, "we always run into that guy, or his little sister, so if you stick with us your bound to meet him sooner or later."
Now there was a point that Hiei could consider. He looked to Yukina and saw her gazing at him hopefully with her very large red eyes. He smirked, showing a bit of fang, "Fine. We'll stick with you." His smirk became feral as he looked straight at Sanzou, "But listen, monk, don't assume that you now have any control over me. As I said before, you have no idea who you're messing with."
Hiei had to leap back when a white blur with wings and red eyes flew just over his head, landing on the table and beeping quite adorably. Yukina made a cute squeal and gentle took the creature into her arms, petting its long neck gently as it crooned in content. "Hiei," she said happily, "this is Hakaryuu, Hakkai-san's dragon. He can turn into a green jeep that they all ride!"
Hakaryuu was a beautiful yet small white-scaled dragon. Slim bodied with large leathery wings that he had folded against his body, and red rubies as eyes. Hakaryuu was a baby dragon, cute and adorable, just as Yukina liked her animals, but the dragon was not totally helpless. Hiei could already sense a fighter's spirit within his small body, something that could come in handy to the four journeying men when he matures.
He chuckled and lifted his bandaged arm and rubbed it, saying, "I have my own dragon, but unfortunately, he would rather destroy everything that moves than cuddle with others."
"Really?" Asked Goku gullibly. "Where is it? I want to see it! It must be really cool and strong!"
Hiei paused at this, thinking. Cool and strong to him maybe, but to whoever on the other side it meant certain death. "Maybe if you get on my nerves you'll meet him."
Goku blinked at him, "Really? Would you really let me fight him?"
Hiei nearly fell over at this, "You idiot! My Kokaryuu would burn you till not even your ashes existed!"
If possible, Goku's eyes became crystallized and shimmering, "Really? Cool, cool, cool! I have got to see him! Kokaryuu is his name? Black Dragon?"
Hiei stared at him, then looked at the other men in disbelief. Sanzou looked like he was rummaging through his robe for something, and ugly vein throbbing at his temple, Hakkai still wore his jester's grin, and Gojyo was looking at him curiously, a cigarette dangling from his lips. Yukina on the other hand was looking at him in disapproval while she continued petting and obliviously happy Hakaryuu.
What the hell?! What did he do?!
"Hiei-san," said Yukina, "I hope you're not planning on using that attack on Goku."
Hiei's jaw dropped open at her words. Was she chastising him? Him? HIM???!!!!
Gojyo then had to make things worse by opening his big mouth, "Aren't they cute? The brother and sister are arguing."
"We aren't brother and sister!"
Hiei flinched, his breath catching painfully, noticing Yukina had turned deathly pale. Somehow, both of them had shouted the same thing, denying any relation what so ever. And it hurt. It hurt to hear those denying words come from her mouth. But what did he expect? Why would she want a murdering brother? He did not deserve her love.
With an ill contained snarl, Hiei shoved himself off the table and stomped to the door of the inn. Without turning he asked, "When are you going to leave?"
"In a couple of hours," replied Sanzou.
Hiei nodded his head and opened the door and stepped out with Goku running after him crying, "Hey! Wait a minute! I wanna see you're Black Dragon! Wait!!"
But Hiei did not feel like waiting, and wished the annoying golden-eyed boy would just leave him alone, because.he had to deal with the sharp pain in his chest that made it hard to breath.
TO BE CONTINUED.hehe
Naaaaa..what do you all think? Hope nobody was out of character or anything.
Next time: who will Hiei and Goku meet while jumping roof tops (Hiei trying to loose Goku, and Goku determined to see the Black Dragon).
Heheh.ooh how the plot thickens.
Sarlinia