Kieran woke under the tree with a jolt. Her eyes snapped open as she gasped for air. Trying to focus her sight, she saw the rain pouring and could smell the dew. In the rain she made out the faint outline of a person.
Kieran blinked twice. "M-mitsume?" she said. The figure tilted its head.
"Pardon? My name is Kurama. Are you looking for a Mitsume?" Kurama said in his usual tone. Kieran drew back. "No, I don't need your help, thank you sir," Kieran said in a low growl not looking him in the face.
"I see…are you sure? It's very cold out here, and rain won't let up until tomorrow," said Kurama, looking to his sides.
Kieran looked up at the figure, squinting her eyes. Lightning struck long enough for her to make out his face.
Every curve of his face was beautiful. His eyes were as bright as grass. Kurama's red hair plastered his face, adding to his features.
"Very well, then. Until we meet again," he said with a sigh. He turned, and began to walk away.
Kieran could barely think straight. Her impulse took over.
"W-wait! Don't leave!" she screamed. She grabbed his wrist and put his hand in both of hers, holding it near her forehead.
"Please, Kurama, don't leave…don't leave…" she said.
Kieran looked up into his eyes. Her painful past poured through her voice and her gaze, as much as she didn't want it to.
"Please…Kurama…help me…"
Kurama pulled her up and put his hands on her shoulders.
"What is your name?" he asked.
The young master hesitated at first. "Kieran," she said finally, "my name is Kieran Jenova Vega-"
"You're th-the forgotten child?!" Kurama started. "It's not possible!" He gestured to the sword on her right hip. "And that, that is the sword of Vega?"
"Yes, that it is," said Kieran.
"It's an honor to meet you," he said. A smile graced his face. The rain was letting up a little.
"Please, do not let anyone know that I am Kieran. Not yet," she said.
Kurama nodded. "Please, follow me. It's not much, but I know a place we could stay. I have some friends I would like you to meet," he said walking with her.
Kieran abruptly stopped. "Friends?" she said with confusion on her face.
"They will protect you if anything were to happen. Yusuke Urameshi is a world renowned Spirit Detective," said Kurama in a persuasive manner. Kieran sighed. "Very well then. Thank you, Kurama," she said walking again.
"No," said Kurama, "thank you, young master."