Hello! Here's the next chapter, minna!
Botan: If you think that you're already forgiven—
Reiko: ::rolls eyes:: Come on, Botan! That's so last year! Grow up, will you?
Botan: But—
Hiei: Shut up, onna, ::turns to Reiko:: This chapter better be decent or else.
Reiko: Or else what? Come on, Hiei! Don't tell me you didn't enjoy that.
Botan: Arg! Hentai!!!
Reiko: Whatever…
Nishigirl – Hey, thank you so much! I do hope that I would be able to keep it up! Actually, I was stumped with writer's block when I'm doing Chapter 3.
Lovely Botan – I like your sig name! Botan's really lovely… I like her! Thank you!
fath8252 - ::lol:: Glad you enjoyed the horse bit… Honestly, I couldn't think of any appropriate barnyard animal to use. I think that using a cow or a pig would really be extreme. Thank you!
KayHiei – Yah, poor Hiei… but then, who could blame Botan, right? Thank you! ::huggles::
Yusuke: Sure glad I wasn't there ::shrugs::
Hiei: Yusuke, you're dead! ::unwraps bandages::
Yusuke: ::smirks:: Is that a threat, Hiei? ::pushes sleeves:: Feh! It's been a while since I've had some exercise anyway.
Reiko: Kurama, make those two stop, kudasai?
Kurama: :sulks:: Why should I? You deleted the scene where Hiei was about to—
Reiko: Shut up, Kurama! Don't be a spoiler! ::turns to Yusuke and Hiei:: You two, stop it! Don't get me pissed. You know what I CAN make you do when I'm pissed!
Yusuke and Hiei: ::gulp:: Fine!
Suki-Saki-14 – Thank you! Glad you liked that! And yes, English is my second language. Took great pains learning it when I was still in grade school but eventually, it paid off. I wouldn't be writing here if it weren't for my super, strict English elementary teacher
Kimby – Thanks! I hope I did a great job in this one too! Actually, I had a hard time writing this considering that I made a pretty good chapter… the pressure's keep bugging me so I hope I don't disappoint anybody. I tried my best here ::smiles::
soul – I had a live version of it… actually, when my cousin was giving birth I was there and I felt sorry for her husband… It was actually funny… everybody was shouting, even the midwife was telling her to be quiet and in the end she gave her some anesthesia. Thank you so much ::grins::
Shizuka – I was a bit cruel, wasn't I? Hehehehe… It's fun torturing our favorite ferry girl and fire demon. Thank you so much!
Hiei: That's it! After the Tantei, you're dead!
Reiko: If you kill me, then how would you end up with Botan?
Botan: ::blushes:: That's beside the point!
Hiei: ::ponders:: On a second thought… hn, you can live for another day, onna! Thank your lucky stars I'm still tired after that ordeal.
Reiko: ::rolls eyes:: Yeah, right… ::grins:: I never knew you could be so bashful, Hiei!
Hiei: ::blushes:: Shut up!
Kitsune Kit – Yep! That's the pairing! I wouldn't want to get Hiei mad at me ::smiles:: Psst… Don't actually believe that Hiei hasn't seen a girl's—
Yusuke: He just did!
Reiko: What are you doing here?
Yusuke: ::shrugs:: Don't tell me you buy that I'm-Innocent-Because-I-Don't-Have-A-Girlfriend-And-I'm-A-Demon crap?
Reiko: No, of course not! At his age? I don't think so!
Hiei: That's it! ::turns to Botan:: You take the other baka onna, I'll take the Tantei.
Botan: What's that supposed to mean? If she's the OTHER baka onna then are you implying that I'm the other baka onna? Hiei, you creep! I'm not a baka onna! I have a name! I'm not a baka! And my name's Botan and-- ::rattles on::
Hiei: ::rolls eyes:: Stupids…
Thanks, by the way! ::hugs:: Better take the opportunity… they're pretty occupied now!
t – Thank you! I never really thought about it till you mentioned it actually. Ack! Should I make the proper disclaimers then?
Dyinglight – Arigato! I love writing this too! I'll see what I can do about the chapter lengths then. I'm not sure if you people could stand reading 20 page chapters though… When I was writing HP fics, I used to write 30 page chapters… could you stand them?
DensetsuTenshi – Thank you! Now, I'm thinking of putting Kurama's scene in this too. I've deleted it because adding that will make this 22 pages long!
Kurama-Haku – Thank you! I just hope that I would get everything right in the succeeding chapters, though. This is becoming more difficult to write!
Hiei's Ice Maiden – Yep! I'm 100, all chick! Hehehehehe… Thank you!
Yusuke: Doesn't look like you're a chick…
Reiko: ::fumes:: And your point exactly, Yusuke?
Yusuke: ::grins naughtily:: Prove it!
Reiko, Keiko, Botan: SLAP! WHACK! SLAP!
Keiko: Yusuke, you pervert!
Kurama: ::sweatdrops:: Well, at least he's not afraid of showing to the whole world that he's a little bit perverted.
Reiko: ::turns to Kurama:: Did you just realize what you've said?
Kurama: Uh… ::scratches head::
Hiei: ::smirks:: The Kitsune's getting stupid too.
Curry – Yah, I see your point… but I don't know… I haven't exactly thought of Mukuro's thoughts about the child yet. But you just gave me an idea! Thank you! If ever I end up using it, I'll give you due credit! Thank you so much for reading, by the way! ::smiles::
fjidsoa – I'm sorry… ::smiles:: Hiei's obsessed with girls… who knows, maybe I'll give them a girl the second time around.
Hiei: ::fumes:: I'm NOT obsessed with girls!
Botan: Wait! There's going to be a second time? But-- ::bawls:: No! No more babies! I—
Hiei: ::slightly hurt:: You don't want my child, onna?
Botan: It's not like that! It's—
Reiko: ::rolls eyes:: Oh, put a sock on it, you two!
Vindiya – That's nice to hear. This chapter is like 19 pages long in word. Would you be able to take 20 pages long? Thank you!
Tuatha – Hey, thanks for the croissants! They're very yummy! Actually, I could've known how yummy they were if Yusuke, Hiei and Kurama didn't eat them without asking!
Yusuke: They're pretty good! Thanks, Tuatha!
Kurama: Yep! ::licks fingers:: Thank you!
Hiei: You don't happen to have some sweet snow, do you?
Reiko: Arg! I hate all of you!
But thank you for the nice words! It's a good think you liked the bit where Hiei was a bit OOC. ::LOL:: I can just picture you having to see your dog have puppies! Actually, I've seen a person giving birth! And… ooohhh.. it's not very… ::swallows:: it looks painful! Ugh! Oh, by the way, I'll answer your e-mail in a second!
Altar-of-Wishes – Wow! Those are pretty big words! Thank you so much! You just made my day! I'll try my best to keep in track then! Again, thank you!
So that's about it! Disclaimers apply, awright? Though I love them, I couldn't own them ::sob::
On with the story!!!
A Healer's Kiss
Chapter III – The Shikigami's Keeper
Mukuro frowned in concentration as she carefully measured the strong chemical she had obtained from Yomi two days ago through barter. She was inside her laboratory on that unusually fine Makai afternoon, her enormous table cluttered with test tubes, bottles, burners and electronic machines that she had somehow accumulated through the years. She had decided to work on one of her experiments while waiting for her heir to get back from his errand and then-- Speaking of her heir… Mukuro frowned and turned her attentions to the big glass windows over-looking her table.
Near to sundown.
Silence… No Hiei...
She frowned, her experiments momentarily forgotten.
Where the hell was Hiei?
The sun was near to setting and she had sent Hiei out to check her grounds when the sun was still at its highest. Knowing how reluctant and stubborn Hiei was when she sent him out, Mukuro couldn't quite figure out what's taking her blasted, stubborn heir outside this long. Putting the test tube down, she frowned and decided to take a sit on her comfortable chair and think.
Think...
Think…
Her fingers unconsciously tapped themselves against her chin.
Suddenly, "it" itched again.
That blasted, nagging feeling deep in the pit of her stomach itched again mixed with mild worry.
She gritted her teeth in annoyance as she felt her female senses prickle once more. There was something really odd going on, her insides kept on telling her. She couldn't help but feel something big will eventually turn up and Hiei would be the cause of it. And it was a known fact that when Mukuro felt this 'itch,' Mukuro would always be right. Taking a deep breath, she stood up and paced her chambers back and forth.
"Curse that youkai," she thought, her heavy cloak billowing behind her with every step. What if something bad happened to him? Sure, Hiei was strong and he could take care of himself but this is the Makai. She knew that there were certain things out there that could be too much for him to handle no matter how powerful he was. She was also well aware that majority of the Makai population was after his neck, plus the fact that her heir was reckless and an arrogant bastard to boot… She shook her head. The last thing she needed right now was a very bruised, bloodied and not to mention a very furious Hiei appearing on her chamber door, blaming and accusing her for everything.
She sighed. "Worrying will not get me anywhere," she thought as she gingerly made for the door. She would get two of her most trusted demons to organize a search and when they find him, she would give him a sound beating that he would never forget (she was vaguely sure that Hiei would fight back, but then she was stronger… heh, she needed the work-out anyway ). Stubborn and unpleasant he may be, Hiei was her only heir and although they had this weird tendency of snapping and snarling at each other and not to mention, killing each other's necks, still Hiei meant something to her. Not romantically though....
The two of them… they're the same.
They were two lonely souls…
To put it simply, he was the only one who understood her…
And with that, she placed herself before her huge wooden entrance way, intent on turning the knob when suddenly a throe of commotion erupted outside of her chambers. What the hell is causing that? Frowning, she immediately opened the door and stepped out only to be greeted with something she didn't quite expect.
Yeah, she saw Hiei all right.
He was walking, no, more like he was stomping angrily with the ugliest scowl his face could ever muster. Behind him were Nobu and Hame, looking very nervous, hurrying after their master. Everywhere around them, demons of various sizes and ranks scampered and scurried away to make way for their very angry superior. Her good eye widened at the sight of her one and only heir carrying a bundle against his arms with white slender pair of legs dangling out for all to see. From the looks of it, it was a woman, a very battered and unconscious woman at that. When her gaze landed on the handsome demon named Nobu, her already wide good-eye widened even more in incredulity when she saw a tiny baby snug against his arms.
"Don't ask," growled Hiei, when his eyes met hers in a livid glance. Then without so much another word, he walked past her, not giving her a second look. He quickly made his way to his chambers, silent as ever.
Mukuro, her senses kicking in, hastily followed his small form across the dim hall. "Who says I'm going to ask?" she retorted as they turned left at the end of the castle hall. They walked again till they reached his quarters. "You ARE going to tell me everything," she added in a commanding voice as Hame immediately opened the door to his master's chambers.
Hiei scowled at her as the four of them, in turn, trooped inside. When Hame closed the door shut, Hiei carelessly placed Botan on his unused bed and in doing so, Mukuro finally, got a good look at her. Nobu, in turn, laid tiny Ichiro on the same bed, a little away beside its mother.
"Nobu and Hame," said Mukuro finally, looking at the two demons a little kindly. "I need to have a moment with this idiot. Alone." Then she turned to Hiei who was obviously on his way to perched himself on his favorite window, automatically placing his right arm on top of his knee. "You, stay here."
Hame was only too eager to comply with her order. Nodding earnestly, he hurriedly made his way towards the door. Nobu looked at Mukuro silently at first but upon earning one of her stern gazes, he nodded once and followed the retreating form of Hame. Once alone, she turned to Hiei, who was silently brooding by his window.
"Now, explain," she said, crossing her arms over her chest. She stared at Hiei, her good eye boring though him, waiting.
"Hn," Hiei growled as he chose not to look at her.
When nothing more came out of his lips, Mukuro narrowed her eye. "Really now, you stupid youkai," she began as she made her way towards the bed. She peered at the sleeping woman's face only to recognize her as one of Koenma's top ferry girls. She mentally slapped herself. Now, what did Hiei do this time? The last thing that she needed right now was to get the Rei Kai brat's nosy disposition after her. And by just looking at the state the girl's in right now—
"When I told you to get your lazy butt out there what I meant was checking and patrolling the grounds. I didn't say you kidnap one of the Royal brat's ferry onnas and rape her," she continued pointedly, without a trace of embarrassment in her voice.
This time, Hiei turned to her angrily. "Baka!" he snarled. "I didn't do anything to that onna!" Then he pointed an accusing finger at Botan's direction. "And THAT is the result of the stupid patrolling you ordered me to do!"
Mukuro frowned. "So, explain," she retorted impatiently. When Hiei chose to ignore her, she looked at him severely. "Don't make me force out everything from you, Hiei," she warned harshly.
Finally, Hiei sighed as he brought his gaze back at the window, his right arm automatically settling on top of his right knee again. It was clear to him that Mukuro was getting pissed again and it wouldn't be a pretty sight at all, he was sure of it. His overseer didn't exactly get her notorious reputation by having the patience of a saint.
"She was just there and she was carrying the Tantei's spawn," Hiei finally began reluctantly. He cast a side-long glance at Botan's unconscious form. "That dim-witted onna didn't know what to do when I found her." He then looked away and focused his attentions back to his window again, a little sigh escaping his lips.
Judging at how tired Hiei sounded, Mukuro decided not to press him any further. She then brought her attentions to the child and frowned thoughtfully. So that explains why the spirit energy the child was emanating was very familiar, she thought. It was definitely not Hiei's, she surmised. The child vaguely smelt like Raizen and that brat Urameshi. The only difference was she also sensed a twinge of the deity's aura around the child. She looked at her heir quizzically. Hiei must have been at the wrong place at the wrong time, she concluded. With that, she found herself pacing back and forth, random thoughts running through her head furiously.
She had to give him credit though. It was a good thing that Hiei brought her here instead of bringing her straight to Rei Kai. It would not be a good thing to bring Botan looking like this to Koenma. She was fully aware of what the Royal brat thought of her heir and should Hiei bring Botan's sorry state to him, God knows what could've happen. Of course, that stupid Koenma would certainly accuse Hiei of doing "something" to his top ferry girl and that accusation would undoubtedly cause more problems for her. Somehow, it brought her strange comfort to think that Hiei was, indeed, using his brains.
"So he did bring her here," she thought, walking back and forth. "What now?" Then she smirked, giving the ferry onna a quick look. Then she snorted. "Feh, I couldn't care less. Let this moron deal with it!"
"Will you stop that?" Hiei demanded after a moment. Mukuro, her thoughts suddenly interrupted, stopped and turned to him, her eyebrows raised. "You're making me insane, baka onna!"
"You're the insane one here, you moron," she answered back, her voice calm. Then she looked at him, amused. "Don't tell me you're the one who helped her deliver the babe?" she asked. At that, Hiei's face reddened a little. Seeing that, she smirked with mirth. So he did help the ferry onna, she thought noting the uneasy look the fire demon had on his face. When Hiei still chose not to say anything, she raised her eyebrows at him, her amused expression changing to that of wonder. "So you survived the ordeal, huh?" she asked aloud. Then she frowned thoughtfully. "I wonder how she took everything?" she again asked no one in particular.
Hiei growled. "Hn, shut up!" he said. He felt himself blush when the memory of Botan, lying there, all bare and blatantly "open" wheezed inside his head. "So, that's— that's what it looks like up close," his hyperactive brain said abruptly before he could stop it. Not that he hadn't seen one-- Actually, he had seen one with those movies and magazines Yusuke and that big buffoon watched and read all the time— and when you're friends with Yusuke and Kuwabara, there's just always— And he was, after all, raised by adult demon thieves who didn't even know the meaning of the word discreet and inconspicuous. And then there was this one time—
He shook his head mentally. Kuso! What was he even thinking? He was turning into a blubbering, perverted idiot and he was disgusted. When he heard Mukuro snickering a little, he gave her a glare full of hatred as he tried masking the obvious embarrassment he was feeling. He couldn't believe that this stupid woman found this whole thing amusing! It was far from amusing! It was not good! It was bad! When Mukuro, once again, peered at the child, Hiei focused his attentions back to his leader seriously.
"So, what are your orders?" he spat sourly.
"Me?" Mukuro asked, looking at him incredulously.
"Yeah, you, moron," retorted Hiei unfeelingly. "You're the one running this ship, are you not?"
"Well, I may be the one running this ship but the last time I looked, you're the one who brought her here," Mukuro interjected. When Hiei just looked at her, still waiting, she shrugged. "She's your responsibility," she added simply.
At that, Hiei gave a start. He jumped from his window and landed on the floor. "What do you mean she's my responsibility?" he demanded loudly, glaring at her.
Mukuro looked at him, unfazed. "I simply refuse to have anything to do with this. I've got so much in my hands right now," she declared, stepping away from the bed. Then she made her way towards Hiei, her face turning serious, "I couldn't care less what you do to her and the child, baka, but YOU, and I mean you are responsible for her."
"No," he grated, crossing his arms over his chest.
"Yes," countered Mukuro back, this time looking at him. This time, the look on her face was DEAD-serious.
Seeing the expression on her face, he cursed under his breath. This is the ferry onnas fault! Everything was her fault! "I'll take her back to Rei Kai then," Hiei finally replied, his voice hard and stone cold. He stared at Mukuro, daring her to contradict his decisions. "Diaper breath's looking for her anyway. He actually sent us out on a mission—"
"I don't care what you do with your little friends, Hiei," Mukuro interrupted tartly. She never really did care what her heir did with Urameshi and his little band of Tanteis as long as they stay out of her business. "Just keep her out of my work's way."
"Fine, I'll take her back to Rei Kai," spat Hiei viciously as he made his way purposely towards the bed. He took a hold of Botan's legs and was about to lift her up when Mukuro suddenly called his attentions. "What now?" he growled impatiently.
"You are not taking her back there looking like that," said Mukuro firmly, looking at Botan's smudged face and tattered clothes. She was pale, her face deathly white and the hem of her dress was torn and obviously ripped forcefully apart. She shook her head. No, returning her to Rei Kai looking like this, they wouldn't surely hear the end of it from Koenma!
"And why not?" Hiei countered acerbically. He frowned at her. "You just said that you don't give a rat's ass on what I do, you stupid onna. I say I return her back to Rei Kai."
"Fine, take her back," said Mukuro with a feigned, resigned sigh. "But don't expect me to bail you out of trouble if Koenma suddenly throws you in Rei Kai prison for VIOLATING his ferry girl, you stupid youkai," she added meaningfully. Ai yah… and she thought that he had actually used his brains a while ago.
"Who cares?" spat Hiei, smirking evilly. "I didn't do it. I'll make this baka onna admit everything when she wakes up." Then he stopped, his eyes narrowing even more. "And I'll beat the shit out of the Royal pain if he tries anything funny?"
"You think by doing that he'll get off your back, stupid?" Mukuro asked him bleakly. "And besides, looking at the state of this woman's clothes, you think Koenma would believe you? He'll just think that you threatened Botan into telling him that you didn't do "anything" to her." Then Mukuro shook her head. "Use your brain for once, Hiei. You're not exactly the nicest demon around, you know." Then she placed her hands on her hips and looked at him gravely. "And I personally don't care what he does to you but I don't want him getting suspicious of me as well," she declared firmly. Then she wrinkled her nose in disgust. "All snooping and nosing around here… Feh! That's one thing I can't stand!"
With that, Hiei finally realized what Mukuro had meant. She was right though. With a low growl of annoyance, he reluctantly let go of the onna and turned away from her, scowling bitterly. Of course, Koenma would certainly accuse of him of violating Botan. What's worse, she could go into prison with him too, knowing for the fact that she stole one powerful Rei Kai artifact. That's the reason why they were after her, although the very idea of Botan stealing something was really absurd. And after the whole crazy ordeal that he went through with her earlier, there was just no way in hell that he would let himself spend his jail term with a whiny and stupid, overly genki onna who had an inborn talent of driving him insane.
"Yeah, the royal brat could do that," he admitted to himself, thinking about the ugly possibilities. "Koenma IS that stupid," his insides couldn't help but add. He growled irritably. It was a no-win situation for him and he simply hated it.
"So glad you finally got my point," said Mukuro flatly after his silence. "You're getting slow."
"Hn."
"Two things to keep in mind though," the woman continued. "One," she paused and raised her forefinger for emphasis. "You have to take care of her first," she continued. "And that means starting now. And by starting now, the first thing that you would have to do is get Ningen food for her and her child. Her body is not made for whatever we have here. Get her cleaned and don't forget to get something for the babe as well."
Hiei glared at her hatefully.
"Two, just make sure to get Koenma off my back while doing that," then she paused as she wagged a warning finger at his direction. "I simply don't like the idea of that Royal Pain berating me of something I didn't do."
"Hn, why should I do that?" he argued icily. "You're the one who thought of it, so you do it yourself, baka!"
"Because you wouldn't want me to be really angry, right Hiei?" answered Mukuro complacently. "And don't give me that look! You're the one who brought this on yourself anyway."
With that, Hiei let out a curse, this time, using the Makai tongue. Hearing that, Mukuro's lips quirked up in an amused smirk.
"Not in front of the baby, Hiei," she couldn't help saying. This was getting pretty interesting, she thought, not to mention entertaining.
Hiei fumed. "Shut up!" he snarled. Then he looked at Botan who was obviously unaware of what was happening around her. Seeing the clueless look on her sleeping face, oblivious to all the trouble she was causing him, Hiei's blood boiled in anger even more. He would surely make her pay for this when she wakes up, he vowed darkly.
But first, he needed to go and look for some female servants to clean her then he would go to Ningenkai to buy her stupid food and supplies. He would have to enlist the help of Kurama though, much to his displeasure. He knew that the stupid Kitsune would suspect something but— Hiei debated whether to tell Kurama of his present situation. But then— he shook his head. The last thing that he needed right now was to have this nosy Kitusne meddling and nagging as well. If Kurama got into the picture, it would undoubtedly complicate things especially when he found out about the child. And besides, how hard could it be? He would just make sure that the onna lived through the night and then return her to Rei Kai…ASAP! All would be normal again and no harm would be done.
He was about to go when he suddenly realized that everything would be coming from his own pocket, he swore again. On a second thought, he'll make her pay first… Right, he nodded. He'll make her pay first then after that, he'll thrash her. He was about to make his way towards the door to see to the task when Mukuro called him again.
"What, baka onna?" he asked irritably.
"I couldn't help but wonder…" Mukuro frowned at him. "Is it a boy or a girl?" she asked him curiously.
His eyes widened with subtle disbelief. He couldn't believe that Mukuro still had the grace to ask him that stupid question after this little, infuriating talk! This aggravating onna is really testing my patience, he thought. But then, he couldn't help but sneer at her.
"Hn, why don't you find out for yourself," he deliberately answered back smugly. He was in no mood to cater to another one of Mukuro's demands right now. To hell with her! "She'll think it's a girl," he couldn't help but think pathetically. "All onnas are stupid."
And so, he looked on silently as Mukuro stepped closer to the bed only to peer at the sleeping baby and study its peaceful face. Then she raised one eyebrow quizzically and without bothering to lift the baby's wrappings, she silently stepped away from it and made for the door.
"It's a boy," she finally said simply as she passed by him. She smirked knowingly at Hiei's surprised face before stepping out of the room.
All alone, Hiei glared daggers at the closed door, his breathing ragged. Then after a moment of tensed silence, a very ugly snarl poured out of his lips.
Arg! How the hell did she know without even looking "properly" at the child?
One might probably say that Hiei was getting all worked up for nothing. It was seldom for the renowned fire demon to lose his cool with something as insignificant as Mukuro finding out the child's gender without even checking and ACTUALLY getting it right. But apparently, that little insignificant thing was actually the breaking point for the fire demon's thinning patience for that day. Due to that, his eyes bored through the door as he controlled his overwhelming desire to unleash his dark flame and burn everything he could get his hands on.
Accursed female intuitions!
Botan's eyes cracked open later that night.
Due to a developed habit, her right hand instinctively slid down to feel her swollen belly. Still dazed, she was about to smile and utter a soft good morning to her unborn child when suddenly—
Her eyes widened.
She let her hands feel around again.
Her tummy was flat!
She forced the sleep out of her eyes and quickly brought it down to gaze at her stomach.
Flat.
Even.
And it was near to midnight.
With a start, she sat up. What was going on? She was about to bolt out of bed when her memory came back. That's right! She had just given birth to a healthy baby boy! Giggling and excited, she was about to shrug the covers away and frantically look for her baby when she realized that she wasn't in her tiny bedroom in her apartment. She looked around, squinting, trying her best to make out her new surroundings.
She was inside a vast room, dimly lit, the moon outside her only source of light. The room, as far as she could tell, was minimally adorned. There was a big, plain table made of oak in the far corner with an uncomfortable, wooden chair facing it. At her left she noticed a small night table with a single lamp on it and on its far left, her eyes discerned a sturdy bookshelf made of mahogany.
She frowned, her brain a little side-tracked.
Where was she?
Who brought her here?
She looked around once more. The room was big and clean, spacious but almost bare. It contained things only which the owner deemed as necessary. From the looks of it, it was clear that the owner of the room had a stern and almost militaristic disposition in life. She rubbed her eyes and was about to reach for the lamp beside her when a tiny gurgle erupted in the silence of the room just a little away from her.
Slowly, she turned to her left, her eyes following the sweet sound only to see the most beautiful thing she had ever seen.
Wrapped in a thick tiny blue blanket, looking up at her with small, innocent eyes, was her son, her first-born son.
Smiling, she stretched her arms, almost afraid to touch him. She carefully picked the tiny bundle of smiles, her breath caught in her throat.
"You're so tiny," she gushed when she found her voice. She held her baby to her, close to her bosom. With so much care, she bent her knees and placed little Ichiro against them, facing her. She felt her heart skip a beat when her baby blinked his eyes and opened its tiny mouth to yawn. She giggled again, touching her slender fingertip to the baby's bit of a nose.
"Two eyes, two hands, ten fingers," she murmured with endearment as she studied her baby's little form. "One nose, two legs… Oh, you're so beautiful," she gushed as she lightly brought her nose to her baby's and rubbed it softly earning, yet, another gurgle from the boy's lips. She couldn't believe that she was a mother already! At the thought, she smiled in bliss, feeling fulfilled at the same time.
The light giggling and gurgling noise was actually all it took.
Hiei found himself being roused from his rest when the noise reached his sensitive youkai ears. Slowly opening his eyes, he irritably searched for the disturbance who had robbed him off of his precious sleep. Scanning his chambers, his eyes finally landed on a fully awake and smiling Botan. She was sitting up with the babe facing her, propped against her knees. Even with the faint lighting of the moon outside his window, he could see the light sparkle in her eyes, the soft smile on her small face as she cooed and whispered sweet nothings to her baby.
She is yammering like an idiot again, he thought frowning, studying her. He was about to stand up and call her attentions when suddenly he saw her rub her nose to her baby's fondly. That sudden action caused him to stop and stare at her for a moment.
At first it was his curiosity that prompted him to observe her further. When Botan gave her baby a light kiss on the forehead, showing deep love and care, Hiei found himself narrowing his eyes even more, the curiosity turning to subtle interest. At that moment, it quite surprised him to see a different woman in place of the noisy, loud and not to mention, unpleasant one he had the chance of encountering a while ago. Botan had been nothing but a rude and ill-tempered onna who shouted and yelled several vile things at him. Now, looking at her, he saw a different onna in her stead. All he saw was a tender and loving woman who was extending her maternal intimacy to her newborn. Unwillingly, he found it somewhat curious. He found it… new… His youkai eyes hadn't seen something like this before. He actually found it— he looked up wonderingly— what's the word?
His face softened a little…
Beautiful…
It was new to him because his mother didn't obviously do that to him when he was a baby.
She didn't kiss and coo at him with tender words.
Actually, she threw him off from the floating island of Koorime to die.
And with those feelings came the subtle rush of sheer envy for the child.
When he saw Botan kissing her baby's fingers, he shook his head, slapping himself back to reality, hardening his heart. Watching the stupid onna doing this to her child was making him think things that should've been forgotten long ago. Her open display of affection to her newborn was too much. So what if his mother didn't exactly do those things to him? He didn't care! He didn't need it! Gritting his teeth, he was about to jump from his window and go to her when he felt her pink, shining eyes upon him.
"Hiei?"
He didn't answer. He just merely looked at her, his eyes looking angry.
Seeing that, Botan carefully lifted her baby close to her bosom while her free hand went to the tiny lamp beside her. She turned it on and a yellowish glow immediately spread inside the lonely room. Even with the sudden light, she saw the stubborn Hiei sitting by his window, not moving but only looking at her. When there eyes met, he turned away and focused his attentions back to the view outside, fixing a frown on his face. Sighing, she shrugged the covers aside only to find herself dressed in a soft white and comfortable sleeping yukata and actually on one of the most magnificent four-posted beds she had ever seen. Beneath her, she saw a pair of white slippers, waiting to be used. And she was actually… clean. With that, she turned to him again.
"Hiei, I—" she began as she donned the slippers. Slowly she stood up and made her way towards the black figure who was sorely pretending not to hear her and the light gurgling noises her baby made. Finally reaching him, Botan smiled at him. "I don't know what to say," she said, shaking her head with wonder. Who would've though that Hiei was capable of being kind and merciful? That thought was probably the sole reason why she couldn't think of anything to say! It was too shocking for her.
This time, Hiei turned to her, his expression neutral. "Then shut up," he said gruffly. When he saw her looking at him softly, her eyes shining with unmistakable gratitude and appreciation, he looked away again, feeling uneasy. He didn't like the look in her eyes. If this baka onna should try something funny, like suddenly hugging him or holding him, he would definitely break her arms.
Botan cast her eyes down shyly. "I— I haven't even thanked you," she said, her voice soft. Then she looked up, smiling at him again. She thought of touching his right arm just to show him how much she really meant everything but the look on his face prevented her to do so. Instead, she brought her hand to her baby, helping her left arm to carry the load. "Thank you, Hiei, for everything… everything…" she trailed off.
"Hn."
"And I'm sorry for yelling and snapping at you like that," added Botan, clearly embarrassed. "I— I didn't mean any of it, you know. You can be harsh sometimes but I— I don't hate you, Hiei." She was babbling again.
His ears perked up. "She doesn't hate me?" he couldn't help asking. After all these years of calling her names such as stupid, ditzy, idiot, baka… actually the list could go on! He wasn't exactly nice to her… And she didn't hate him? Now, that was something that he didn't expect.
"Hn."
Then silence.
Botan cleared her throat as she felt the awkward silence settling inside the room. She looked at Hiei, wondering if the stubborn fire demon was also feeling ill at ease. Finding nothing on his expressionless face, Botan then decided to inch her way closer to him. The sudden movement caused Hiei to revert his full attentions back to her. He stared at her warily but the way she looked that night never failed to make him wonder… He frowned. He didn't exactly know how long her hair was until now. For the first time since they've met, she had her hair down, framing her small face. It cascaded in soft, blue waves to her breast, staining her white cotton yukata with its blue hue.
Seeing his scrutiny, Botan blushed a little while smiling at him happily. "Have you met, Ichiro, Hiei?" she asked instead as she stretched her arms a little and showed him the baby. She grinned at him proudly. "Told you he's a boy," she added giggling.
Hiei took one look at the child and if he was not mistaken, the little tot gurgled and smiled at him. He frowned. Did he just make the brat smile? Realizing that, the same warm feeling swept inside him again, taking him by surprise. He grunted, turning away quickly, the alien feeling creeping him out.
"Of course, I know him," he growled. "I was the one who brought him here, wasn't I?" he added, shaking his head. "Baka onna…"
Botan rolled her eyes. "Fine," she said sarcastically. "Let's forget the one who actually felt the "pain" of bringing him here," she added, looking at him. Then after a moment, she spoke again. "Um, would you like to hold him?" she asked, offering him the child.
Noting the playful tone of her voice, Hiei looked at her, frowning deeply. When he saw Botan's waiting expression, he decided to ignore her as he returned his gaze back to his window once again, not saying anything.
Seeing that, Botan raised her eyebrows. "I guess not," she quipped, clearly disappointed.
Silence.
Botan looked at him first then seconds later, she laughed. It was so sudden that Hiei nearly fell off from his window. "Come on, Hiei, can't we just have a normal conversation without being cold to each for once?" she asked in an attempt to get him to talk.
He stared at her first before smirking. Apparently, it worked because the fire demon opened his mouth to speak. "I can hardly call you normal," he remarked nastily.
That answer earned a frown on Botan's delicate features. She was about to retort when suddenly, she stopped. Her eyes widened as if she remembered something. Then much to Hiei's surprise, the onna started smacking her forehead with her right hand.
"Silly, silly, Botan," she murmured repeatedly as she hurriedly made her way towards the bed and laid her baby down on the sheets, the deal with Hiei completely forgotten. She forgot to feed her child. "How could I even forget something important?" she muttered as she sat down, looking around for something in particular.
"What now, baka onna?" Hiei asked, curious at the sudden change of her behavior.
Botan turned him. "I haven't even fed my baby!" she exclaimed. Then looking at Ichiro's smiling face, she sighed, near to tears. "Oh, you must be so hungry, Ichiro-chan," she murmured. "I'm so sorry." Then she turned her gaze back to Hiei. "That doesn't actually make me a bad mother, does it?" she asked, completely forgetting that this was actually the very individual who found her stupid and pompous. Without waiting for his answer, she looked away, feeling the unusual heaviness of her breasts. Finally, her maternal instincts kicked in. She had to feed her child using her own milk. And to do that— she swallowed hard and looked at Hiei.
Taking a deep breath, she straightened up. "Hiei, could you—" she began, blushing a little. "Could you please step out of the room for just a few moments?" she asked softly.
"Why should I?" Hiei grated. "This is my private chambers. You go out if you don't want my company," he added rudely.
"It's not that I don't want your company, it's just that," Botan paused and looked at him helplessly, not sure whether to tell him or not. She bit her lower lip, clearly embarrassed.
Hiei glowered at her, waiting. When nothing came out of her lips, he rolled his eyes. "What? Spit it out, onna," he said impatiently.
"I have to feed my baby, okay?" she said lamely. When Hiei gave her a bemused look, she sighed tiredly. Just as she expected, the stubborn fire demon didn't even know what she was talking about. She couldn't believe she had to— explain… "Fine," she thought, rolling her eyes mentally. She probably deserved this after yelling and shouting at him a while ago. She cleared her throat and shifted to have a better view of the puzzled Koorime.
"When I said I have to feed my baby," she began patiently as she tried herself not to blush. "What I meant to say was I have to give him milk which obviously would come from m—"
Hiei snorted. "You baka onna," he said, cutting her in mid-sentence. "If its milk that he wants then you don't have to trouble yourself."
She frowned. "What do you mean?" she asked. "Did you already— have you—" Then her gaze landed on the table only to see several milk bottles and several cans of baby formulas… She turned to Hiei, her eyes glowing.
"Your baby wouldn't shut up," Hiei cut in shortly. "It was so annoying." How could such a tiny thing generate so much noise, he had asked himself a while ago when he was feeding it. Until that time, Hiei didn't really have an idea on how loud a small baby could be when hungry.
"You— you fed Ichiro?" Botan asked in wonder.
"Hn."
"Wow, Hiei, I didn't even have an idea that you know how," gushed Botan as she stood up and hurriedly made her way towards the table. Her eyes shone as she saw the assorted baby things laden out for her to admire. "I'm impressed," she finally said, turning to him. "Did you have a hard time?"
Hiei stopped short and thought for a second. Hard time? Ch! Well, it was difficult… well, a little… actually, a lot… He rolled his eyes. It was aggravating and arduous! As a matter of fact, it took him quite a while reading the instructions at the back of the baby formula then three attempts of getting the right amount of powder into the bottle plus several attempts of getting the water temperature right. Not to mention, forcing it to the baby's stubborn little mouth a couple of times. He was under the impression that the babe would immediately shut up once you stick the bottle into its mouth. It never did occur to him that you would actually have to "teach" and let the child get accustomed to sucking the dratted bottle first before actually feeding it. And he was doing all that while the baby was wailing its lungs out! He was actually surprised to find himself panicking a while ago.
But then, he stopped and smiled to himself, remembering the whole ordeal. When the babe finally quieted down, he had to admit, he had a good time feeding it. Remembering the helpless and vulnerable look of the child a while ago when he was feeding it brought an unexplainable warm feeling of pride within him. He had been— he had been needed. For the first time, somebody actually made him feel that he was needed. When the child smiled at him, the warm feeling intensified even more. He had just made the wailing child smile!
But he had a reputation to keep. And looking at Botan's expression of amazement and delight, he felt the need to boast— again. He glared at the woman.
"Hn, it was youkai feed," he snorted while pasting a bored expression on his face. He looked away again as if he had done nothing of importance.
Botan raised her eyebrows as she noted the clutter of milk bottles and powdered formulas on the table. It was a mess. She turned back to the fire demon, mentally rolling her eyes. "Right," she began, nodding. "Youkai feed." Ooh… when will Hiei ever learn? And here she was, actually feeding his stubborn ego. Why she kept on doing that, she didn't know. She shook her head. That was like one of the mysteries in the universe one couldn't really understand. She was about to see to her baby when she felt her own stomach growling. Evidently, the mere mention of food suddenly informed her of how ravenous she was. Biting her lower lip, she called Hiei's attentions.
"What?"
"Well, you— you don't happen to have—"
Hiei smirked at her. "I heard it, onna," he said, looking straight at her. He had, after all, sensitive youkai ears. "There's food on the table."
Botan didn't need to be told twice. Hearing that, she immediately checked the table only to find Ningen rations prepared for her. There were bread and soup, then there was meat as well and fruits. With those teasing her taste buds, she immediately sat down and started eating. She dimly became aware that Hiei was actually studying her. After a moment, he "hn-ed" again.
"I never knew you had it in you, onna," Hiei said as he watched Botan wolf her food down with subtle amusement. Who knew that the onna could act this way?
Botan turned to him, chewing. "What do you mean?" she asked after swallowing her bread. Then she picked her spoon up and ate her soup. When Hiei just looked at her, she frowned. Did he have to look? She was practically acting like a starved animal who hadn't eaten anything since God knows when! But, the growling impatience in her stomach prompted her to ignore him as she hastily placed the spoonful of soup into her mouth.
"You do understand that you would have to pay for everything, right?" Hiei said rudely instead. When Botan looked at him, he turned away. "Or would you rather have the Royal Brat pay me when we go back to Rei Kai tomorrow?"
With that, Botan accidentally dropped her spoon. Now that her belly was almost full, her senses were growing sharper, more accurate. Did Hiei mention going back to Rei Kai? She turned to him, her eyes widening in horror.
"No," she said, as she shook her head fervently. "I can't go back."
"You have no choice, onna," Hiei said unfeelingly. "You stole something, so you have to pay for it."
"You don't understand," she replied, near to tears. "I can't go back! I can't—" Then she frowned. "What do you mean I stole something?"
Hiei turned to her. "That phial you're wearing," he said, looking at her chest. "You stole it. That's the sole reason why we couldn't even track you down," he added with annoyance. He didn't actually think that the stupid onna could do something like stealing. He also had to give her credit for being cunning and resourceful. If not for the current situation, she could've even earned his respect.
Botan's face twisted with disbelief. "I— how dare you!" she shrieked. She was enraged now. The nerve! "I— I didn't steal anything!" she said heatedly. "I'm not a thief!"
"Well, that crystal phial you're wearing doesn't say so, baka onna," Hiei simply replied.
Botan hand automatically shot up to finger the crystal around her neck. The she took a deep breath. "I can't go back to Rei Kai, Hiei," she said with finality.
"Last time I checked you're in my territory," Hiei countered. "You don't have a say on this, onna." He turned away. "You've caused a lot of trouble."
Hearing the serious tone of his voice, Botan knew that there was nothing in this world that could sway the fire demon's decision. Her lower lip trembled as she took a quick look at her son. She knew Hiei, if he says it can be done, it will be done—"Unless I do something," she thought, thinking furiously.
She stood up and walked towards him. "I can't go back to Rei Kai, Hiei," she repeated as she stood before his unyielding form. Hiei ignored her. She stood straighter, mustering all her courage. "They are going to kill my baby."
This time, he looked at her, thoughts running inside his head. Her statement made perfect sense. Who else would have the potential of overthrowing Enma Daiou? The child could undoubtedly cause his downfall. Now he fully understood why Koenma was so adamant on finding the onna. The child posted a threat to them. But then—
"Nothing to do with me," he replied coldly. He couldn't get himself involved! He already had a bad record in Rei Kai and harboring this onna would make it worse. And besides, he didn't need another onna driving him insane, right?
"I know you would say that," Botan replied. "That's why I'm going to make you an offer."
He smirked. "I don't need anything," he grouched. "First thing tomorrow, you're going back to Rei Kai," he added, his voice hard.
Botan tried her best not to panic. She wouldn't give in without a fight! "I suppose you've heard about the Healer's Kiss?" she asked instead, raising one eyebrow.
Of course, he had heard about it. Every youkai in the Makai couldn't let information about something as powerful as that pass them by. But, it's only a rumor, passed down from one drunkard to another. There was actually no proof that it does exist. "That's bull shit," Hiei spat. "The Healer's Kiss does not exist. Information about The Mark was only a product of a very drunk youkai's over-active imagination."
Now, it was Botan's turn to smirk. "What if I tell you it does exist?" she asked. "What if I tell you that you're actually talking to one of the Mark's Bearer, Hiei?"
"Hn, you lie," Hiei replied. "Shut up, onna, you're getting on my nerves."
Hearing that, Botan closed her eyes momentarily. She had no choice but to prove it to him. Then inhaling deeply, she proceeded to loosen the knot which was holding her yukata in place. At the sudden action, Hiei turned to her, his eyes widening in shock.
"What the hell are you doing, you baka onna?" he rasped as Botan continued stripping in front of him, ignoring him. "Stop this nonsense right now!" he commanded. But for some reason, he couldn't tear his eyes away from her. When Botan slightly parted the soft fabric, revealing her chest, Hiei found himself staring at it.
Then he saw it.
A shape very similar to an angel's halo materialized on her skin, firmly tattooed on her upper left breast, close to her heart. He looked at her face, totally astounded, lost for words. So— so-- it wasn't all talk then? It was The Mark. It does exist! But then—
"If you let me stay with you for the time being, Hiei," Botan began, her face already blushing. "You'll be getting something that even Mukuro doesn't have," she continued, looking straight at his widening eyes. "I'll give you something that only Enma Daiou and Koenma own." Hiei looked away. "I'll give the Healer's Kiss to you in exchange for helping me," she finished.
His brain furiously reacted. She was offering him something very, very useful and powerful. If he had the Healer's Kiss then he would almost be invincible. He would be given a second chance in life. "You don't have a reason to live anymore," something inside him said. "You already found the gem and you already found your sister. Isn't it that you want to die?"
"You don't necessarily have to use it for you own," added Botan as if reading his thoughts. "It will be at your disposal. It's your decision if you want me to give it to someone else or not."
"You can use it for Yukina's sake."
But even with the coaxing voice, he remained unconvinced. "I don't need it," he snarled at her stubbornly.
Botan mentally rolled her eyes. This stupid fire demon was definitely giving her a hard time. "Did I also mention that being the Bearer gives me total control on one of Rei Kai's powerful treasures?" she asked mildly. When Hiei didn't answer, Botan took this a sign of encouragement. "There are three Healers in Rei Kai, Hiei, and each of them was given the task of guarding the Rei Kai's secrets. One controls the Rei Kai's Treasury and Artifacts, one holds the key to the Rei Kai Library." She paused, swallowing hard. "I'm the Keeper of the Shikigamis." Apparently, Botan was so engrossed in her dialogue that she forgot to pull her yukata up.
At that, Hiei turned to her, surprised. She was the Keeper of the Shikigamis? He frowned inwardly. The Shikigamis were powerful beings! How could even Enma Daiou entrust those powerful creatures to a ditzy baka onna like her? He knew there are twelve Shikigamis up to date; Suzaku and Touda who wield the power of Fire, Byakko for the power of Wind, Soryou, Tenkou and Kijin who manipulate the power of Water and Genbu who controls the power of Earth and the rest… well.. they were insignificant. Like his Black Dragon, one can summon them and use them. They only follow one master and—he shook his head mentally. If he had them, he would be powerful, he would be invincible! So, was she implying—
"They are loyal to one master only," continued Botan, interrupting his thoughts. "I cannot give you the twelve but—"
"Hn," Hiei muttered, turning away.
"But I can give you the most powerful one," Botan hurriedly said.
That caught Hiei's attentions. He turned to her once again, his eyes falling on her creamy chest then back to her face. Little did the ferry onna know, the fire demon was having a hard time concentrating with her standing half-naked in front of him. He was still, after all, a MALE demon, right? Taking that as a sign of perked interest, Botan smiled at him knowingly. She knew she got him now.
"I can summon Kurikara RyuOh for you," she said. "That Shikigami is on par with a god, unlike the twelve. He is the most powerful of all and he follows no one." She paused and licked her lips, which were rapidly becoming dry due to nervousness. "Just imagine, Hiei, if Kurikara RyuOh takes you for his master, imagine how strong you would be. You, who controlled the Black Dragon of Makai, would also control the Red Flame of Rei Kai. You will be," she paused for effect. "Invincible."
At that, Hiei thought about it. Well, he had to admit, it was not a bad deal. On the contrary, it was a good deal… A VERY good deal… Very hard to resist. He was, after all, a youkai who desired power and strength and by having the Red Flame, then he could be— Enma Daiou, Mukuro and the rest of those insignificant fools would be nothing compared to him. And she did inadvertently mention that she was leaving, right? That she needed to lay low first before moving on again. This was just a temporary set up, nothing permanent, wasn't it? He could let her stay here and he could just stay out of her way for the time being. Surrendering to temptation, he finally reached a decision. Hiei jumped from his window till he was facing her on the floor. If he was to stay out of her way, then he'd better start now. This had better be the truth or else!
"What do you say, Hiei?" she asked as she desperately fought the urge to sound helpless and at the same time hopeful.
"Why go all the trouble, onna? You do understand that you're betraying Rei Kai, do you?" he asked instead. Other than the jumbled up feelings, he was curious as to why she would do something like that, of course. The ferry onna, one of Koenma's and Enma Daiou's most loyal and faithful servants, was actually betraying them. He may not be fond of the onna but he knew that she wouldn't make this deal if not for—
Botan looked at his son first, her face softening. Then she brought her attentions back to him. "The situation calls for it," she merely replied. "I have no choice," she whispered sadly.
"So, she's doing this for the child," he thought. He shook his head. "Hn," he muttered as he turned away from her and made his way towards his chamber door. He needed to go out and sort his thoughts out. Seeing the onna blushing and standing half-naked in front of him with her silky hair all down was getting a bit distracting. "Get dressed, baka onna. You're making me sick."
And with that, Hiei stepped out of the room, leaving Botan staring after him.
To be continued…
Author's Notes: The Shikigamis are actually from the anime Yami No Matsui. Tsuzuki is their master… so I kind of borrowed it as well to make things a little interesting.
Btw, to be honest, I've deleted the scene where Hiei went to Ningenkai to ask for Kurama's help. Adding that will make this chapter 22 pages long so I had qualms about adding that. In the end, I've deleted it and made a revision. If you guys are still interested about that part, just drop me a note then we could certainly make the proper revisions, okay?
Kurama: ::sulks:: How could you?
Reiko: There, there, Kurama… let's just wait what the readers decide, okay?
Kurama: Fair enough.
Ja, minna! Thank you for reading and please review! I'll see you in the next chapter!