I suppose you wouldn't believe me if I said it seemed like a good idea at the timewould you? The currently teen aged prince of the Spirit World tried to smile friendly. Unfortunately, he was met with a group of glares and a grunt from Hiei.

Guess notman, you try to give a little back and everyone jumps you! I made you people famous!

Excuse me if I'm being disrespectful, Eris crossed her arms and looked down her nose at him. But shouldn't you have at least asked your father first before you revealed the existence of the Spirit and Demon worlds?!

Yeah, what she said! Yusuke grabbed Koenma by the collar, who flinched and desperately tried to get away.

I didn't think it would get so big! So sue me! he yelped, arms flailing.

Yeah right, you greedy little baby! Yusuke growled, but Eris began to separate the team leader from his employer.

Alright, alright, no need for bloodshed (you can save that for later), he didn't mean much harm. You can see he's sorry, she emphasized and raised a brow at Koenma with a you better say yes before he knocks you senseless, look.

Yes, yes! I'm sorry, I'll never do it again!

Yayy, argument closed and settled. Nowdo whatever you do Eris waved her hand in an offish manner and sat on a windowsill across the room. Her stomach wasn't feeling the greatest ever since that portal ride.

Kurama, a bit surprised at her way of handling the previous situation, looked at her pale face with worry. As always, she waved him off, and before he could open his mouth she interrupted.

Yes, I'm fine. You have more important things to worry about right now, and with that, and a few curious looks from the occupants of the room, drew her red hood up and pulled the strings tight to hide her face.

so anyway, Kuwabarra grabbed the back of the still peeved Yusuke's jacket and pulled him back into his seat. What are we here for again?

Koenma's face went up with remembrance. Those unidentified demons from your last scouting mission have been moving their camps again. They seem to be looking for something around one certain area by the charts of their movements.

Do we know where this area is located? Kurama remembered these demons. They were like no species he had ever seen, or heard of, which made them incalculably dangerous. Without even an inkling of how powerful they might be, measured by the average strength their species reaches, they had no idea what these things were capable of. It was even worse since they trudged in groups if 50 or more at a time, usually with 3 huge bodyguard like demons in the front, back, and middle of their packs.

Koenma looked grim and chewed on his pacifier. Unfortunately, yes. They seem to be specifically attracted to Genkai's temple.

Eris opened her hood a bit, peeping out a wide eye. Well that certainly isn't goodI bet Hiei's freaking out bout Yukina right about now.

By the looks of it, he may or may not have been, but the tight line of his lips gave a hint.

They can't get in, though, right?? Kuwabara apparently didn't mind freaking out however. Right?? Please tell me I'm right! What if Genkai's wards break and they get Yukina?? AHH! Yukina!!

Now he remembers her Eris muttered and sniffed, disgusted.

They won't with everyone there. I want all of you staying there until we know just what these things are, what they can do, and what they want-

Koenma sir!! a very familiar blue ogre came bursting into the room, panting.

A vein popped out in Koenma's forehead, What?! What is it now, ogre?!

The demons have started attacking the temple wards!

Well why didn't you say so sooner?! the vein throbbed and the prince nearly spit out his chew toy. Out! Now! Every last one of you, and get them out of there!

What happened to watching and waiting?! Yusuke hopped up nonetheless and ran through the office door, a fretful Kuwabara, and silent but troubled Hiei following. Kurama, however, pulled Eris up by the wrists and half dragged half ran with her out the door and towards another portal. They could just see the heel of Hiei's foot go through.

Kurama! What are you doing?!

You're coming with me!

Eris dead right stopped, hardly feeling her arm almost ripped off by Kurama, or her weak knee almost buckling underneath her from the jolt of the sudden stop.

You're kidding me right? her voice was unusually calm, but her wide eyes told him she was terrified already.

You can't stay here, he hurriedly tried to explain. Everyone will be in a frenzy and I don't want you getting hurt or lost somewhere in limbo!

Yeaah and being in the middle of pissed off demons is way safer. Yup, it makes perfect sense. See ya! she turned and started walking back to Koenma's office, but Kurama grabbed her up bridal style and ran towards the portal.

AH! Are you insane?! Kurama, don't!

You'll be safest in the temple, just trust me. And don't argue! he gave her a swift glare before leaping into the portal, Eris bracing herself, digging her hands into his shirt and hiding her face in his neck with a dreading whimper.

The winds cut right through her; shivering, she closed any surviving space between she and Kurama left, crying out when the pain in her head or lack of air couldn't be handled anymore.

He felt horrible for putting her through this again, but all Kurama could do was tighten his hold in a feeble attempt at comfort. At last the winds abruptly were sucked away and the red haired teen nimbly landed on the grassy ground with a very sick Eris in his arms.

He set her down gently, blinking in the sudden nightly dark, and holding onto her shoulders in case she collapsed. Eris, open you eyes.

She did so, dark grey glowering at green. You. Suck.

He frowned, and seeing the bright blue flash of Yusuke's Spirit Gun coming from within the forest trees, a pang of slight panic stabbed his stomach. Look, I know you're angry with me-

Big time. You have some major ass kissing when you get back!

Kurama! Where the hell are you?!

The force of Hiei's voice in his mind was like a knock on the head. Eris, you have to listen to me: you must get inside the temple and stay there. No matter what happens, don't go outside until we come back. Do we have an understanding?

Eris blinked. I'm not an idiot, Kurama.

He pinched the bridge of his nose, took a claming breath and came back to her. I know that, justjust be there when I get back, alright?

She opened her mouth to comment, but was immediately cut off by his lips coming down over her own in a silencing kiss. Once again Eris found her breath taken away, albeit this was a lot more pleasant, and it took a few moments to register what was happening. Signing inwardly and forgetting all the impending danger, she leaned into him, eyelids falling to half-mast.

Alas, all wonderful things seem to come to a quick and unwelcome end. Kurama pulled back, leaning his forehead gently against hers. Genkai will take care of you.

Not exactly the words she had expected after a kiss, but her mind was currently reduced to mush and all Eris could do was nod stupidly.

He smiled at her reaction and pointed the way to the temple. A lighted window winked in the near distance. Just follow that light, don't go into the woods, and you'll be fine.

She nodded again and pushed against his chest. Stop macking with me and go already! she smiled. I know they need you.

With a last look over, he left her and ran towards the flashes of colliding spirit energy. Sighing, Eris began a swift walk to her destination, still smiling despite her current situation.

Not a bad way to make me shut up. She fingered her lips, almost giggling. I wonder if he'll remember that in the future

Her happiness was short lived, however. A streak of lightning in the sky, a few claps of thunder, and a downpour began.

Eris stopped, looked up at the dark sky, and let her head fall forward in weary defeat.

Well isn't this cute?

Slouching forward, her shoes squished through the waterlogged grass, finally reaching the steps of Genkai's temple. Stomping halfheartedly up the staircase, Eris slumped down on the top step and started pondering her existence because it seemed like a good opportunity to do so.

A door slid open behind her, an old, raspy voice came sternly from the doorway. Who the hell are you and how did you get here?

Long story she leaned all the way back so her head was resting on the ground and making the old woman appear upside down. Kurama sent me, and I suppose you already know there's some demon army trying to get past your wards?

Genkai grunted, scrutinizing this half crazed looking girl splayed on her front porch.

Eris zoned out, eyes roaming over the beams supporting the roof and mind whirring with thoughts. Mostly about Kurama (she grinned, making Genkai worry a little about her sanity), and if everyone was all right.

Get up.

Eris jolted back to reality.

I said get up! I don't need anyone catching pneumonia and dieing on my property. It brings the market value down.

Good point, Eris grinned and stood up, massaging a stiff neck, and following Genkai into her temple. If she didn't feel so messed up, Eris would have marveled; only a few were welcome to this place, but her mind was so muddled and stomach achy that all Eris wanted was a floor to sleep on. Maybe when she woke up, everything would be normal and make sense again.

With a quick light of a candle, a soft glow was thrown over the dark halls they passed through; now and then a streak of lightening would make everything as bright as day, then fade quickly as it was consumed by the dark. Eris couldn't help but wonder if the thunder they heard was really explosions from Yusuke's Spirit Gun. The thought of them alone and fighting outnumbered in the rain put a worry weight in her stomach, keeping the sick feeling company.

She had long ago lost count of the turns they took and doors passed, but now they were stopped in front of an entrance that looked exactly the same as the others: rice paper and strong, warm wood. Without needing words, Eris slides the door open and slips inside, sighing in worship as she sees a futon. Turning around, preparing to thank Genkai profusely, she finds no one there.

Probably preparing to be invaded by a team of wounded fighters, Eris frowned and peeled her sopping sweatshirt off, the red reminding her of Kurama (not to mention blood), and making her feel even worse. Dropping it on the ground, it made an amusing plopping sound; Eris rolled her eyes at how easily amused she could get under any circumstance. She also noted the squishy feeling in her worn Adidas' she neglected to take off before entering.

Well aren't we starting off on the right foot this evening? she grumbled, kicking the offending shoes off and hiding them underneath the sweatshirt, as if someone would scold her for them later.

The snappy smell of ginger wafted to her nose, Eris perked her head towards the door just as it opened and revealed the disappeared teacher holding a tea tray and the ginger smell drifting from the kettle. Eris smiled, already feeling the warmth of the liquid spreading into her limbs.

Thank you, she bowed, shyly, and accepted the tray.

You're making quite a puddle, came the raspy reply, a hint of annoyance.

Well, can't blame her. She's got some freaky girl dripping water everywhere. I'd be annoyed too. Eris bit her lip and stood on one foot, like it would make a difference and magically evaporate the water.

Nice to know you have balance. There's dry clothes in the dresser and drink that tea immediately.

Hai, thank you again, she did another little bow, which was waved away. I'm sorry for imposing on you like this

Don't bother apologizing. I've housed worse people, and with that, she disappeared again, leaving still dripping Eris to her tea and clothes.

Bolting over to the little dresser and pulling out a drawer, she found a cotton robe type of garment in light blue. She smiled in delight, A sleeping yukata! Neat!Kuwabara! Watch your back, I can't always be there to do it for you! Yusuke yelled at his orange haired friend over his shoulder. The stream of dark figures was seemingly endless, and the rain wasn't helping much.

Danmit, whatever these things are, they sure mean business! Yusuke thought, knocking another demon out of his way and into a tree. As soon as that one was gone, another one popped up to takes its fallen comrades place.

The sound of snapping jaws whizzed by his ear, nearly taking it off. A thorny vine seized the snarling demon, wrapping itself around its victim like a snake and driving its razor sharp thorns into the suffocating prey. Yusuke nodded his thanks to Kurama before the two were separated again.

Kurama's Rose Whip severed through another demon, and another, and another.

They may be weak, but their numbers make up for it. How is it that they're able to congregate so fast? There was only a party of 50 in the beginning

 A sudden onslaught of these insane creatures began closing in on him. Kurama could hardly get an attack in between dodging claws and teeth. There were too many!

Not even my Petals and Thorns could dispatch them all

Hey! What the-? Kuwabara's outcry and a glimpse between the writhing bodies confirmed that the same was happening for them all.

Yusuke growled; his arm was bleeding liberally and was now reduced to only one arm in which to fight with, the demons ever growing closer. Kuwabara! Can you break through?!

No! Th-there's too many, I can't even count them all!

Not like you even could!

Shut up Urameshi! This ain't the time for joke crackin', we're all about to die!

Kurama! Where the hell is Hiei?!

I'm not sure, I can't sense him anywhere and he won't answer me!

Kuwabara's Spirit Sword lashed out, eliminating three bodies. Kuso! Where is that little shrimp?!

Right above you.

Looking up, the three fighters saw the outline of Hiei perched in a tree, something like a body dangling from his fist.

It was like a switch had been turned off. The fighting stopped. All the demons laid down what weapons they had and ran away through the trees.

Yusuke and Kuwabara stood dumbfounded.

What sort of crap was that?!

Yeah! Why'd they all leave all of a sudden?!

Hiei threw the body to the ground. It made a loud SPLAT as it landed in the mud and slid a few feet. Yusuke kicked it with his foot: dead.

A Retreat General, Kurama said grimly. They're used in strategic warfare. A Retreat General is elected for a battle. When he's killed, the surviving soldiers retreat. Our fight isn't over yet; they'll be back.

How encouraging, Yusuke smirked. Next time we won't be so caught off guard, then we'll have them crying to their mommies!

Kuwabara pumped his fist in the air, then caught sight of Yusuke's bloody arm. Eww! Maybe you should get that looked at before you pass out or something

Pfft! I'm fine.

He's right, Yusuke. We should be heading back now anyway, Kurama was eager to get back to the temple, for reasons we already know. =()=

Yeah sure. I still say it's not that bad.

You can't even move it!

I can still kick your ass!

Wanna bet?!

You're on!

They returned to Genkai's Temple; wet, mud splotched, bloody and scratched. Well, at least 3 out of 4. Hiei washed the brown blood from his blade in the rushing stream, a satisfied smirk on his lips. As they sat down with Genkai, drinking ginger tea to get the feelings back in their limbs, the sun was just rising and spreading its pink and orange rays.

Across the temple rooms, Eris peeped open a groggy grey eye. It was still slightly dark, but a quick look at her watch told her it was only 10:30 back home; she'd normally be happily watching Cowboy Bebop and indulging in cookie dough fudge ice cream now. However, this was not the case.

time zones suck, she grumbled, sitting up and running a hand through snarly black tresses. Ugh, my kingdom for a brush

Crawling over to the dresser, she searched its surface for anything that would help. She grinned at spotting a wooden comb.

Now let's just hope it doesn't snap in half, she snatched it up and sat cross-legged, leaning against the drawers and tentatively picking out snarls. Finally cleaning her hair into a clean black sheet, she swept it all up into a ponytail and secured it with a hair tie.

Standing up, stretching a bit, she wondered where everyone else was, what happened, where they ok?

Probably should find out. Not to mention stop talking to myself Eris looked at her bundle of still damp clothes. Those were no good. No way in hell I'm walking around in wet clothes looking down at herself, the yukata was only slightly rumpled.

Well, they consider these house wear too, don't they? Ok, problem solved then! sliding open the door to the empty hallway, she came to another issue. How the hell do I find them in this maze?!

One way or another, she ended up wandering the halls, opening doors to various rooms and not finding anyone. One however, led outside.

Eris breathed in the lovely scent of exotic flowers she couldn't name and reveled in the warm breeze. The sun was still young in the sky and the full heat hadn't set yet. The wet grass was still quickly drying beneath her icey blue painted toes as Eris padded around the grounds, following the outer wall of the temple in hopes to finding the entrance.

Maybe I'll have better luck if I start at the beginning something landed lightly on her head. Thinking it was a bug, she swatted at it, expecting to see some sort of three-eyed little monster to fall out. Instead a light pink flower petal fluttered to the ground.

She stooped to pick it up. Aww, a cherry blossom petalmust be a tree somewhere. Eris began her walk again, absentmindedly brushing the petal over her lips to feel the softness; the faint scent of flower tickling her.

Just like Kurama. Giggling a little, until her toe crunched into a rock.

OW. OW. OWWIEEEHEEHEE!!! Falling on her butt, she rubbed the offended toe in a lame attempt to ease the pain. Eris glared at the undersized boulder. Stupid rock! Who put you right in the middle of a-oh.

She was sitting at the edge of the main path to the temple stairs.

Well I feel like a goose.

Well—I feel like a duck. Do you?
what does a duck feel like may I ask?
Like this:
Pancakes feel like ducks?
No, no, No.Ducks feel like pancakesduh!
Thanks for clearing that up.
No problem, I didn't want you to feel left out on that vital fact of life.
Could this be perhaps because ducks have flat feet?
No, it's because ducks swim in syrup (yes, maple syrup) in their eggs before they are born into this world
(A/N: --;; This is what happens when you leave your computer unattended. Your brother's girlfriends have weird conversations in the middle of your fictions. And now that I've ruined my vow of never having an author's note in the middle of a chapter, on with the show!!)

Shooting one last glare at the rock, Eris pulled herself up, brushed off her yukata, and limped towards the stairs. Her toe was bright red.

Ah man, I hope I didn't break itthat would suck

With the sun quickly rising, a light sweat broke out over her skin and she thanked God for the light fabric of the yukata. Toe feeling somewhat better, Eris climbed the stairs and quietly slid the temple door open. Three surprised and two indifferent faces looked towards her.

I got lost? she grinned nervously and scratched her neck.

Hiei actually said to her. Well, maybe more like at her general direction before finding a window to sit in.

I'm sorry, I interrupted something didn't I? she bit her lip and turned to leave, but a sight caught her eye. Yusuke! Your arm!

Yes, horrible isn't it? A sweet, yet nonetheless annoyed voice entered the room. Yukina had entered with bandage supplies. It's too deep for me to even heal completely.

Eris eyes took in the sight of the little koorime maiden, a little stunned at seeing yet another character come to life. She had to force herself to not look from the mint green haired girl to Hiei sitting silently in the window.

Kuwabara's face lit up as usual, but luckily no declarations of undying love were proclaimed.

Thank God, I don't think my stomach would be able to handle it. Her stomach still didn't feel normal, and sudden pangs of pain shot through her lower abdomen every now and then. At least she knew by the feel of it that it wasn't something to worry completely about.

Being a girl is crappy. I feel crappy. Great, mood swings. Now everyone's really gonna love me. Ugh, I need to sit down

Oh my! Your face just went pale! Maybe you should sit down, she was grateful for Yukina's concern and took her advice, choosing a seat obviously next to Kurama. They smiled at each other.

I see you're still in one piece, she teased.

He picked out another sakura petal from her hair that she hadn't noticed. The same could be said for you.

Yeah really, I half expected to see you hanging from a tree, Yusuke smirked. Grandma here is way overprotective of this pla-OW! Hey!

Stop moving, Yukina scolded innocently. Eris grinned, glad to know that the girl wasn't as oblivious as she was made out to be.

Yeah, stop moving Urameshi and let the pretty lady work! Kuwabara snapped at his friend then did a 180, grinning like a goof when the maiden smiled at him.

Eris snickered at the exchange. Ok, so their relationship was pretty cute.

You still haven't introduced yourself, girl, Genkai sipped her tea, legs crossed on her tatami mat.

Damnit, why do I always have to be such a screwup? Eris scolded herself, standing up and bowing her head. My name is Bueller Eris-

I thought your name was Elf? Yusuke interrupted, pulling his shirtsleeve down over his freshly bandaged arm. Americans always have such weird names

Yeah, that's what the girl and that other kid that got all creepy around shorty called you, Kuwabara was always one to put his more usual than not unwanted opinion out.

Eris' eye twitched. Fine, call me whatever you want.

I think it's a lovely name, Yukina poured some tea for Eris, which the girl gratefully accepted, as well as a few rice cakes. It reminds me of that story about elves you read to me Kazuma-kun.

Kuwabara turned red and glared at Yusuke who had to leave the room. Otherwise his lip would have been torn off to keep from laughing. Eris had to clamp her hand over her mouth. The cuteness was just too much!

Sooo anyway, nice day huh?! Ehehe

Hiei finally couldn't stand it anymore and went outside.

SLAP. The sound of a hand connecting with a face came from somewhere, soon followed with an unmistakable OW! What was that for?! from Yusuke.

Correct me if I'm mistaken, Eris smirked and sipped her tea. But I think Keiko's come for a visit.

And she was not disappointed. An irritated young girl with long brown hair and eyes came through the door, and a trailing Yusuke with a handprint on his cheek.

You stood me up again last night, Yusuke! We were supposed to watch the lighting storm together!

Well I couldn't just let a pack of demons run wild around here now could I?

Keiko rounded on him with an evil eye. You could have at least called!

We only got back a few hours ago!

I didn't sleep all night because I was worried about you! You still could have called!

That doesn't sound gooddo I want to know what's going on? Eris murmured to Kurama.

I think it's best if we stay out of it he took a rice cake and looked at the arguing couple with a wary eye.

Would you two stop screaming at each other? There's no point in yelling, Genkai interrupted the bout of stubbornness.

Yusuke sat down again in a huff, looking remarkably like a five year old. Keiko blushed a little and bowed in apology.

Sorry Genkai. I brought what you asked for! the girl took a little bundle out of her pocket and set in front of the old teacher, who smiled in return.

What's that? Eris piped up curiously before she could stop herself. A little startled at the unfamiliar voice, not to mention sudden English, Keiko started a little.

Hello, I'm Yukimora Keiko, she introduced herself. Noting the little space between Kurama and Eris, she smiled even more. Are you a friend of Kurama's?

Eris smiled also and nodded. Yes, I'm Beuller Eris. I just arrived yesterday, but I should be going home sometime today.

Aww, that's too bad. Botan and I were planning on going shopping later. It would have been fun if you could go with us.

About going home, Eris Kurama interrupted the two girls looking a little uncomfortable.

Eris raised a brow. What about it She already didn't like the sound of this.

I don't think you'll be able to leave for awhile.

Her face went a little pale.
With the attack yesterday, the Spirit World is still busy trying to locate the demons that escaped. All the portals are closed in case they try to portal hop.

Eris slumped slightly. My mother is going to kill me if Alex cracks she rubbed her temples, then took a calming breath. Then again it'll only be a few days, right?

Kurama smiled, but inside he had his doubts. Spirit World is in a frenzy; it might be weeks

Hey, that means we can go shopping then! Keiko smiled, trying to push Eris into the lighter side of things.

Trying to make her grimace into a smile, Eris pretended to be excited. Oh man, I hate shoppingbut maybe I can get a few souvenirs for Ducky and Alex? Ok, so it might not be so bad.

Keiko! You bought her tobacco again?! Yusuke pointed at Genkai; a small, decorated pipe was currently being lighted. The bundle she had brought was open on the low table, inside lay a container of tobacco.

Keiko gave him a Don't even start with me look. You should be one to talk, you know. I can smell the smoke on your jacket from here!

He grumbled and crossed his arms again. I'm holding you responsible if she keels over from that stuff! She's old, you know!

Thank you, Captain Obvious, Eris smirked.

Watch it shrimpy! he pointed a finger at her. I'm older and taller than you!

Thanks, two more observations I didn't notice. You're also, what, 18? And you still act like you're 14.

HA! She's got a point Urameshi! Kuwabara laughed, earning himself a bonk on the head.

Keiko laughed too, as did Kurama and even Yukina and Genkai. Yusuke, glared at Eris with the force of a little kid whose mother wouldn't let him have cake before dinner.

Great, even the hag is laughing! Last time I worry about you!

You know, I'd rather be old and ugly than young and stupid, Eris pondered out loud in an innocent voice.

What is this? Rip on Yusuke Day?

Is it really? I thought that was next week? a bubbly voice answered as Botan flew through the window on her oar. She hopped down lightly and the oar disappeared with a flick of the wrist.

Good morning Botan! Keiko greeted the blue-haired ferry girl. Eris waved a hello also.

Good morning everyone! she said cheerily and nibbled a rice cake.

How are things in Spirit World, Botan? Kurama asked.

Still busy I'm afraid, she frowned a little at this. We lost the locations of the renegade demons, but we've managed to apprehend a few.

That's good, isn't it? We can just pummel the info out of them, Kuwabara grinned.

It's not that easy, Botan finished off the cake. These demons aren't very good with language comprehension. It may be because of their strange breeding.

I'm almost too afraid to ask, but what's wrong with their breeding? Yusuke asked, looking at Botan with skepticism.

They're all unnatural breeds of demon. It's almost like someone chopped off their limbs and sewed them on different bodies. Didn't you see them while you were fighting??

The only light we had was lightning! Yusuke grumbled.

Probably some crazy scientist messing around with demon DNA or something, Eris tapped her nails against her teeth, thinking. This is like some bad fanfic story

Maybe it's that Ichigaki guy come back! Kuwabra shuddered.

or not, Botan thought for a moment, then shrugged to get back on track. Keiko, are you ready to spend some money??

The two girls laughed, a little creepy like. Kuwabara and Yusuke inched away.

Sure am! I've invited Eris-chan to come with us, is that all right?

Botan clapped her hands and smiled. The more the merrier!

Eris smiled a little nervously and looked to Kurama with a Am I really going with the crazy people? look. He laughed and stood to help her up.

I should probably change first, she took his offered hand, not noticing the grins on Botan and Keiko's faces. Maybe my clothes are dry no-oooooh that doesn't feel nice
She froze in an odd half stand half sit position; eyes squeezed shut and gritting her teeth.

What's wrong, Eris-chan? You look like you're in pain! Keiko bit her lip.

I think that's an understatement, Keiko, Botan derived from how hard Eris was squeezing Kurama's hand; he actually winced a little.

What hurts, Eris? he asked, worriedly.

Don't think you wanna know, she said through clenched teeth and slowly stood all the way up, slowly letting out a breath.

Genkai laughed, The only time when you wish you were as old as me.

Yeeah that's about right, Eris said in a high voice. Looking forward to menopause right about now

All the boys cringed, but the girls sympathized with her.

You poor thing! Botan crooned.

I'll make some special tea for you, I know a soothing recipe, Yukina went off to the kitchen to prepare.

I know just the thing! Keiko grinned. Some time in the hot springs always makes me feel better.

Eris moaned. Oh that sounds so good! Let's go before I pass out, please!

That's a great idea! Botan clapped her hands again. A nice relaxing hour in a hot spring sounds wonderful!

The two older girls gently ushered Eris towards the door, one on either side and moving slowly.

Kuwabara sniffed. Oh come on, it can't be that bad!

He was met with three death glares and reduced to a whimpering state.

Let's see you bleed from your crotch for a week and be happy about it! Eris growled.

Yusuke shuddered. Ugh, do you have to say it like that?

The girls just rolled their eyes. Boys are such sissies. You can't even say the word tampon' without them freaking out or flinching. Eris shook her head and waited for Botan to slide the door open.

When they were sure the girls had left, Yusuke and Kuwabara hopped up from their seats and ran out the door. Curious, and not all too trusting, Kurama followed.

Now where are you two going?

The hot springs, duh! Kuwabara grinned.

Three chicks naked in hot water; hell yes!

Kurama was shocked almost speechless, though he should have expected it from these two. Yusuke! What if Keiko finds out??

The black haired boy shrugged. Who do you think I'll be looking at? He turned to the fox demon and smirked. Why, you think I was gonna be eyeing the Elf girl? Kurama, I never thought you'd be one to get jealous!

I am not-

Oh, so you won't mind then?

Yusuke, if you-

he put a finger to his lips and crept up behind a gathering of bushes. Feminine voices could be heard close by as well as the sound of water.

Please tell me you haven't done this before! Kurama whispered fiercely. The other two boys ignored him and grinned as they moved closer and moved a few tree branches out of the way as quietly as possible. Kurama hung back, refusing to come any closer and stood rubbing his forehead.

Come on Kurama, you know you wanna see! Yusuke snickered at the glare sent his way.

Damn! They're already in the water! Kuwabara pouted.

Shut up knuckle head! I wanna hear what they're saying!

Ouch! Don't hit me!

Hey, did you hear something? Keiko looked in the general direction of the bushes.

Must be birds, Eris shrugged it off, feeling way to comfortable to care. Damn this feels good! I bet you come here a lot!

Whenever we can, Keiko grinned and raised her toes to break the surface of the steamy water.

Yup, it's a great stress reliever so we come all the time.

Yeah, we should know, Kuwabara snickered.

Shut up! Yusuke smacked him, but still laughed.

You two disgust me, Kurama couldn't believe he was there.

Botan crossed her arms on top of a rock and layed her chin down. So how do you like it here, Eris-chan? Is it very different from America?

Eris shrugged. I've only been here for less than a day, so I haven't seen much change. It is a lot prettier though. She grinned and played with a tree branch that came low over the water.

How'd you get here? Keiko was very curious about the sudden appearance of this girl, but hadn't thought it polite to ask until now.

Kidnapped by Kurama.

Kurama perked up at the sound of his name.

A thief and his thugs! Botan laughed.

Yusuke said, offended.

That wasn't very nice! Kuwabara grumbled.

It's not very nice to spy on people either, Kurama crossed his arms.

Yeah, but you're still here! Yusuke countered with a smirk.

Eris laughed too; pulling a leaf off the branch and making it float on the water. That's about right!



Long story, Eris trailed a finger through the water, looking at the leaf spin lazily. Have Botan tell you later.

Yeah, talk about something interesting! Kuwabara was starting to get bored.

Or stand up, Yusuke's leg was starting to fall asleep.

Alright, alright, new subject, it was like Botan had actually heard them. We have to finish our game, Keiko!

Oh yes! the two girls giggled.

Eris raised a brow and sat up a little. By the sound of your evil giggles I'd say this is an interesting game.

Botan grinned. We'll start, but you'll catch on sooner or later.

Me first! Keiko raised a hand and laughed. Botan: who would you rather do? Johnny Depp or Brad Pitt?

Eris gasped. I never thought you two were so dirty!

Yeah me neither! Kuwabara looked shocked.

How come Keiko isn't dirty around me? Yusuke pouted.

I think you take up the whole dirty part of the relationship, Yusuke.

Johnny Depp! Definitely!

Eris burst out laughing. This is so awesome! My turn! My turn! Keiko: Orlando Bloom or Yusuke?

Ha! Urameshi! Kuwabara had to stuff his fist in his mouth.

Shut up! he punched him, eager to hear what she'd say.

Keiko blushed, Kami that's hard

Hard?! How can that be hard!? he nearly screamed.

You gotta choose! It's in the rules, Botan giggled.

Well, I love Yusuke, even though he can be a jerk-

Ha! I knew it! Yusuke beamed, confidence restored.

She just called you a jerk!

So what, she loves me! Now stuff a sock in it carrot head!

-but I'd have to say Orlando Bloom. He looks too good in green!

Yusuke's mouth dropped and Kuwabara looked like he was going to have a seizure from suppressed laughter. Kurama kind of felt bad for him, but Botan captured his attention.

Alright, my turn next! Eris-chan, she grinned, pausing for effect. Kurama or Youko?

A/N: OOOOOOOH I'm SO mean! ::cackles evilly:: Way too much fun writing that last part, even though I've butchered all their characters. ::shrugs:: oh well. It's fun, ne? Sorry for the turtle slow update. This week was so busy! Track meet on Monday (I am now the leader of an All Conference 4x1 team. ::bows:: thank you! Thank you! Please, hold your applause!), started trigonometry in math on Tuesday (STILL don't get it..), and got a 3 page paper in my Christian Social Justice class on Wednesday on my that was due on Friday. Guess who I got permission to do it on!! ::dances:: VASH!! . Eee! So fun! Took forever, but so worth it. Hopefully she'll have them graded by tomorrow. Anyway, enough blabbering on my part. .

Footnote:
Was there one? I thought there was, but I'm too lazy to find it. :p

Review Replies:

EverQueen- I know, isn't it? LOL

Reonari- I was too lazy to make him pay hell. ::hangs head:: Oh well.

InuKurama- WOO! Do the Dew baby! Hehe. Don't worry, I do that all the time.

TheFireYoukaiPage- You left right when I finished this chapter. Lol

Teena M.- If you think about it, that would be the only logical explanation. Plus he seems to be the type to do that, doesn't he?? Bad Koenma!!

ReiRei-chan- I hate writing fluff, but its so necessary in this. ::grumbles:: plus I'm good at it, which sucks. lol

Washu- Aright! Alright! I'll back off. Sheesh, I was only kidding
Koroga- ::whispers:: She's kinda scary!! And yes, I think I beat out Kurama in the blushing department. ::grins:: but maybe not after this chapter. Hehe.
Sesshoumaru- Au contraire! Flattery gets you everywhere. But I fear my character accuracy was ratherlacking in this one. Though it should pick back up again after next week when school ends. ::sighs at thought of freedom::
Legato- Mmm, let's just hope my style can survive. It tends to fluctuate annoyingly. I never know if I'm getting better or worse.

Dolphingirl132173- yes, he's a naughty naughty little prince, that he is!! Makes more entertainment for us though. Hehehe

EverKitsune- LOL you're insane. But that's good. Otherwise you'd be normal and boring.

Kitsune Kit- I tend to steer away from the or whatever the opposite of prep is in life. I think they're just more labels we try to put on people to have a reason to hate them, but those are just my thoughts.

Ookami Aya- yes, I love them all too! ::huggles everyone:: o.O Kouga racing Hiei? Hmm, tell me how that turns out!

AmaiKyuti- I KNOW! You just wanna play with them all day. ::squee:: so cute!! And yes, kawaii means cute.