The room was filled with noise; little kids laughing and giggling, running around and teasing each other. The teacher and her assistant smiled at their little students, admiring their art projects of popsicle sticks and glue and scribble crayon drawings. They smiled back with sparkling eyes, happy to have their teachers attention and approval.

A boy with wispy platinum blonde hair and big blue eyes hummed as he led the large purple crayon too big for his hand around the paper. To him, he was drawing the most beautiful picture in the world. To someone else, it looked like a jumble of swirled colors.

Moving his arm to search for a new color, he bumped the gray one off the table. Hearing it drop to the ground, he spotted it rolling across the floor. It stopped at a little girl's feet that was quietly looking at a picture book of farm animals. She felt it bump her foot and looked around the book to see what it was. Seeing the crayon, she picked it up and looked around for the owner.

The little boy hopped down from his seat and ran over to the girl with a smile. Hi! My name's Will, he grinned. I like your shirt.

The little girl looked down at the yellow duck on her pink shirt. She smiled shyly.

Do you wanna come color with me? I'm drawing a pretty picture for my mommy.

She nodded, happy to have someone to play with. The smile on his face was contagious.

What's your name? Will asked, leading the way to his table, the rainbow of crayons splayed all over the surface around the small piece of paper.

she struggled with the r' and blushed, embarrassed.

Will pretended not to notice, That's a pretty name. I like it. Let's be friends Eris!

Eris smiled and held out the grey crayon in her small palm. I found this by my feet.

That's my crayon I was looking for, he let her drop it into his own only slightly bigger hand instead of taking it from her. He looked at it for a moment, then took a new paper and scribbled on it.

Are you making a new picture? Eris tilted her head, watching him color over the grey gently with light blue.

Nope. This looks like the colors in your eyes, did you know that?

She shook her head no, but smiled anyway. Eris liked Will, he noticed her.

Watch, I can write my name! He said proudly and slowly but surely constructed the letters, the script messy, but legible to a person who could read. My mommy taught me how. Here, you can have it!

He presented the paper inscribed with his name and rendition of her eyes to Eris. She thanked him happily and put it in her cubbyhole with her extra sweater and art projects.

I'll draw a picture for you now! she chirped, over coming her shyness more. Eris took up a red crayon and some paper and began outlining the petals of a flower. Soon it evolved into a garden with a brown cow standing under a tree, and a squiggly yellow rocket ship flying in the air. The teacher had to help her with the rocket ship.

That's lovely Eris! she smiled widely at the usually quiet girl. Are you going to be an artist when you grow up?

I wanna be a wolf so I can have a tail! she beamed and giggled.

The teacher sighed, but grinned and patted her head anyway, black bangs falling into the child's eyes. I think you need a haircut, Eris. Don't your bangs bother you?

she lied and couldn't fight the urge to blow them out of her face. Mommy says she can't take me because the meany judge won't give her a break.

What's your mommy's job? Will asked, adding a blue stick figure next to the cow.

Eris drew a smaller red one next to it. She makes bad people go to jail.

The teacher left them to their doodling and went to check on the other children. Eris and Will drew a big happy face sun in the corner.

What about your daddy?

Daddy's busy with Jack's baseball team. He's the coach and gets to yell at the umpire, she giggled.

Is Jack your brother? I don't have any brother or sisters, Will sulked a little, but perked up at the teacher calling them out for recess.

Yup. Let's go get a swing! Eris energetically hopped from her chair. The two raced out the door, passing all their classmates in the hall.

Eris! Will! Don't go too fast! they heard their teacher call after them.

Ignoring her, like any child would ignore someone hindering their freedom, they turned a corner and slid on the shiny blue and white-checkered floor. Losing her balance, Eris fell onto her butt, still sliding a few feet.

Will's blue eyes went wide. Ery! Are you ok? he asked worried and kneeling down next to her, hoping she wouldn't cry.

Eris laughed. That was fun! Try it Will!

Will grinned and instantly sprung up to run down the hall a ways, throwing his weight to one side and sliding on the floor like someone stealing home base.



Eris stopped laughing and ran to her friend. What's wrong?

Will fished in his pocket and yanked out a pencil with its tip broken off. I landed on it when I slid!

Are you ok? she looked at the pencil in curiosity.

ERY, LOOK OUT!



Eris jerked awake, gasping once in surprise that it was a dream. She covered her eyes with one hand and sat up, her heart racing. The light breeze cooled her sweaty skin and ruffled the grass to tickle her other hand. She moved it to her heart, taking deep breaths.



Her heart nearly stopped again. Eyes snapping open, she looked around the sunny garden from under the tree she sat, seeing no one.

This isn't a dreamI can feel my shoulder hurting again

Don't toy with me, Will she whispered, narrowing her eyes.

The sound of a quiet groan reached her ears. Looking down next to her, Kurama's sleeping form was found as the source. The wind played with his hair, making it fall over his distressed face in a red wave.

Her shoulder throbbed at the comparison of blood; ignoring it, she gently shook his shoulder. Kurama. Kurama, wake up!

He woke up to the feeling of her fingers brushing away his hair and her grey eyes pooled with worry. He blushed a little, but smiled at her.

I'm sorry, I guess I fell asleep.

Don't worry about it, she said and sat back against the tree. Are you feeling ok? You looked like something was hurting you when you were sleeping.

Kurama shifted onto his back and looked at the sky though the dancing branches. Now that it's mentioned, I don't think I do fell all that well.

Must be Yukina's tea, she smirked. I told you, you shouldn't have drunk it.

My apologies, Kasan.

Botan called from the top of the temple steps, a perky smile on her face.

Now why don't I like the sound of that Eris murmured, getting slowly to her feet and brushing dirt from her yukata. Kurama laughed and began standing up as well.

Eris-chan! You're awake, finally. Good! Botan laughed and walked towards them. You looked so kawaii I didn't have the heart to wake you.

Eris felt her face redden and rubbed her neck. Er-ok. What did you need?

she grabbed the other girl by the wrists and began dragging her into the temple.

Botan! What the heck are you doing??!

The older girl shoved a pink flyer under her nose, It's the Sakura Festival! The trees have been in bloom for half a week, it's about time they set a date. And not a moment too soon either, she smiled with a mischievous glint in her eyes.

You know it would help if I could read Japanese. And if you'd stop trying to rip my arms off!

Oops! Sorry about that. Come on, less talking, more moving! Keiko and I only have one day to figure out your sizes and colors! Oooh, this is going to be so much fun Eris-chan!

Oh, God help me

Kurama laughed and waved at Eris who did a pouty glare in return.

I don't know why, but I blame you! she called out just before disappearing inside the building.

It was now rather hot, Kurama guessing it to be around noon. After being in a colder climate for almost a week, the sun seemed to press down harder than before. The greenery and color palette of flowers thrived around him, enjoying it more now after the rainfall the previous night.

So why did they seem duller than a minute ago?

Amazing.

The mindful words of Hiei. If anyone believed him not to be talkative, they'd be sorely mistaken. He talked, just preferred it not to be out loud.

Without turning to face the fire demon a few trees away, Kurama sighed and started on a walk.

What's amazing?

You.

I thought we had this talk already?

A mental glare. You know what I mean.

Forgive me, I really haven't a clue.

That girl must really have dulled your senses. A dangerous thing for a fox.

I disagree.

And why's that?

If anything, she's made them sharper.

He stopped with a surprised look on his face.

Humorless laughter. And so the truth comes out. I never would have believed that you of all people, of all demons, would fall for a ningen.

A pickup of wind blew red tresses into his eyes. You don't understand-

What is it that I don't understand? She's human and female. Weak.

Eris is not weak! Kurama spun around to face an indifferent Hiei standing behind him.

You wouldn't be so angry if it wasn't true.

I'm not angry, but even as he said it, the words registered as a lie. You don't know her like I do.

That's not necessary. Tell me, why did you really bring her here? To needlessly protect the onna, or is it because you've fallen into the useless human emotion of love with a powerless, frail-

Kurama turned his back; the hairs on the back of his neck were starting to bristle with rising anger. What would you know about love? his voice was calm, but laced with contempt.

You'll only bring yourself down. You're blind!

At least I'm not afraid! His eyes were burning; the open dirt path overhung with dripping vines and stones filled Kurama's vision but he saw none of it. You're so obsessed with eliminating your own weaknesses you've banished your own sister to a life of unhappiness, wondering if her brother is alive or dead!

This isn't about me, Kurama!

You may not see it, but those eyes of hers, eyes that you yourself posses, are laden with sadness. Even set in such a happy face, she's hurt inside.

Don't talk about what you don't know.

I've witnessed it. Everyone has. You can't keep avoiding it, Hiei!

His presence was gone. And so Kurama stood alone on the path, the trees coming into focus.

-enter break line here since I can't figure out how they work anymore. -- -

Ouch! I think I got a sunburn, Eris winced.

You do look a little pink, Keiko peered at the girl's cheeks.

At least you'll match this! Botan held up a cute, pink shirt with ruffles on the collar.

Ack! No way! I don't do pink!

Aww, why not? Keiko pouted and fingered the ruffles. It would be so cute on you. Don't you want to impress Kurama?

Eris blushed and rubbed her cheeks, trying to feign it off as soothing her sunburn.

And you're complexion agrees! Botan laughed.

She glared and crossed her arms. You're lucky you've gotten me to sit still and be your dress up dolly; I am NOT putting that on, nor will you bring anything relevant to the color pink anywhere near me.

Keiko and Botan put their hands on their hips.

Keiko turned to the Koorime girl passing through the room with a bag of birdseed clutched in one hand. What do you think Yukina-huh?

There was a thoughtful look and an unfamiliar unfocused impression in her red eyes. It quickly was replaced with her usual little smile as she pushed her thoughts back.

I'm sorry, what did you ask me? I must have drifted.

Are-are you alright, Yukina? Keiko gave a shifty look to Botan who bit her lip in response. Eris watched this exchange in suspicious wonderment, not to mention worry.

I'm fine, she smiled. I think violet would be a wonderful color on you, Eris-chan.

I'll go with that! Eris smiled and perked up, but a nagging feeling had started.

That's not going to stop until I know what's going on.

Excuse me for a moment, I have to refill the bird feeders Yukina went back out the way she came.

Eris' brow furrowed. Didn't she just come back from filling them?

Botan shoved a purple skirt with pink polka dots under her nose. What about this? You need something to wear around town!

I said no pink! she frowned and looked back at the door Yukina had disappeared from. I have to use the restroom, I'll be back in a sec.

Botan said slowly. But hurry back!

It's lucky I was rooting through my closet today, Keiko's muffled voice followed Eris through the door as she left. These clothes are only a year old, though; I never knew I was so tiny.

Great, Eris rolled her eyes. I've been here less than a day and already they're making fun of me.

Quietly padding down the corridors, Eris found a door slightly open and peeked through. There was a familiar shade of mint green beyond the rice paper. Pushing it all the way open, she found herself outside and standing at the top of a staircase. Below was a secluded side garden with brightly colored birds flitting about from various feeders of all kinds.

Yukina sat at the top of the stairs, just looking over the garden and the blurs of color. The bag of seed lay forgotten beside her, toppled over and a small pile of golden kernels peppered with black pieces accumulated at the open top.

Eris said quietly, not wanting to disturb her if the girl didn't want to be bothered.

She turned her head, a small smile on her face. Oh, hello Eris-chan. It seems you've finally escaped Keiko and Botan.

Eris laughed and took a seat next to her. Yeah, probably not for long though. What are you doing out here?

She shrugged a shoulder and sighed peacefully. Watching the birds. It's like one big family. If someone's missing, one needs only to whistle to know where they are.

Oh, I see where this is leading.

Eris-chan, would you mind terribly if I asked you a question?

And here it is. Damnit, I told Kurama

Sighing, Eris put on a smile. Sure, but only if I can ask you one first.

Alright, that seems fair, she picked up a small handful of seeds and threw them into the air. They watched as birds dove to pick them out before they hit the ground; it was like a rain shower of bright feathers.

What were you troubled about when you came inside?



Don't try playing oblivious with me, I've perfected the art, Eris smirked.

Yukina giggled, but became silent again after awhile. Then, I heard Kurama-kun and Hiei-kun arguing before. Kurama said something about Hiei's sister.

Eris went stoic and blinked a few times, mind working fast. That's strange for them to argue with one another

Eris-chan, you know practically everything about all of us don't you?

She nodded stiffly. Why can't I ever lie to people? Maybe the guilt could be penance enough

Do you know where I could find my brother?

Unclenching her jaw, Eris chose her words carefully. I couldn't tell you that truthfully, I'm sorry.

Yukina sighed and stood up slowly, gathering her seed bag to herself. That's alright. It was unfair of me to ask.

Think nothing of it. I know I'd do the same.

We're not so different, are we Eris-chan? she smiled.

Eris grinned. Not really.

As the ice maiden left, Eris laid back on the stone, watching the clouds float overhead and the birds' chirping and flutters.

I was lucky she asked a question where I didn't have to lie. Why do I get the feeling this topic isn't closed yet?

A pair of happy pink eyes came into her line of vision directly above her.



We've finally found the perfect outfit for you Eris-chan!

Keiko appeared next, holding clothing items above her grinning head in each hand. Now we can go into town to do some real business!

Eris sprang up, almost knocking heads with the deity of the dead. You mean all this was only for a few hours to shop in town??

Of course.

What did you think it was for?

You can't run around the city in a dirty yukata, Eris-chan.

You Americans are so silly!

She slumped back down, shoulders hunched forward and knuckles grazing the stonework floor. Aww man! Somebody help me!

-enter break line here since I can't figure out how they work anymore. -- -

Come on, Eris-chan! I want to see!



You can't hide in there forever!

Oh yeah? Watch me.

Botan and Keiko stood outside the bathroom, waiting for Eris to come out in the clothes they had picked out. Each looked at the other with an annoyed look.

What's so bad about it?? Botan pounded on the wood panel of the door.

I look like a hooch!!

Oh, you do not! Keiko huffed and leaned her shoulder against the wood.

You're not seein' what I'm seein'.

Kurama came walking down the corridor. What's all the yelling about?

Hello, Kurama, Keiko and Botan exchanged roguish smiles. Maybe you can get her out of there.

Get who out of where?

Forget it! came Eris' voice. I'm not coming out! You'll just have to go without me.

Kurama stepped up to the door.

If that's Kurama, I'm definately not coming out!

Why not? Surely something can't be as horrible that you can't step outside a door.

It is when I can't bend down without me knickers saying hello to the world! Honestly, how can you wear these things Keiko??

Well, first you step into it, then pull it up-

That is so not funny.

Will you just get out here??



Fine then, you give us no choice, Botan stepped away from the door and motioned for Keiko to do the same. Kurama, break the door down.



On the other side, Eris' eyes went wide. You better be kidding!

No, I'm not. Go ahead, Kurama.

Don't you dare!! Eris gasped and jumped to the farthest corner away.

I'm afraid I can't do that, he said and tried edging away, however unsuccessfully. The two girls grabbed his arms and brought him back. What will Genkai say when she sees her door smashed to pieces??

I don't care; I've been meaning to do some renovations, the old woman appeared, walking down the corridor.

I'd really rather n-

Oh fine, move over! Botan summoned her bat-needless to say, Kurama moved without further persuasion needed.

What's she doing Eris called out cautiously.

I'd take cover if I were you! Keiko laughed as Botan fixed her grip on the bat, and wound up like a real batter.

Why? Kurama, stop her, whatever she's doing!

Why don't you just come out so we can avoid all this, Eris?

Nope, too late, Botan took aim at the door.

In a shower of wood splinters and fluttering paper (a few even smoking!), amazingly, only the door was demolished. They stared at the usually peaceful deity in shock.

Keiko shook her head, mouth open. Wow, Botan

Well you didn't think this thing was just for looks, now did you? she smiled and flashed a victory sign. (Sweat drops all around.)

Are you insane?! Eris' head popped out from inside the little room. You could have killed me!

Oh pish posh! It's all in good fun. Plus your still in one piece--and so is the rest of you thank goodness! Botan laughed and clapped her hands.

Well, well, there is a girl underneath that mouth of yours, Genkai chuckled to herself and meandered off to continue her walk.

Eris instantly recoiled back into the confines of the small bathroom. Her attempt to hide was unsuccessful, however, as Botan and Keiko both grabbed an arm and dragged her back out.

I don't see what you're so ashamed about, Eris-chan, Keiko scolded the girl playfully.

You need to tell me your secret! Botan chuckled and spun the smaller girl around against her will. How did you get such a fabulous body?!

Good Lord, are you hitting on me? Eris laughed, a blush creeping up her neck.

No, just trying to put ideas into Kurama's head, she muttered through the corner of her mouth to Keiko, who giggled.

What was that?







Oh never mind! Eris huffed, crossing her arms over the silky material of her shirt, not intentionally pulling the neckline down. I don't understand how you can wear such short skirts!

I think you look beautiful, Kurama breathed, unable to blink.

His eyes scanned every detail; from the black pleated skirt that showed off her strong legs to the smoky blue, thin-strapped tank top that brought out the blue in her eyes. It was also the first time he had ever seen her wear her hair down, the long wavy sheets coming to rest between her shoulder blades.

Embarrassed, but secretly pleased with his approval, Eris blushed even more, fixing her gaze at the floor and rubbed the heel of her feet against the silver band of a toe ring on the other.

Thank you, she almost whispered, pushing a stray piece of black hair behind her ear.

Botan and Keiko, on the other hand, could hardly contain their glee.

I think it's working! Keiko whispered excitedly to the blue haired one.

This is so perfect! Botan restrained from clapping her hands. You watch, by the end of the festival tomorrow-

What are you two whispering about over there? Eris asked, eyebrow raised and looking at them with suspicion.



What Botan said, why would we be whispering? Is there any reason for whispering? I don't see anyone whispering, you must be imagining things Eris-chan! Are you feeling ill again?

Both eyebrows shooting up, Eris leaned near to Kurama and muttered through the corner of her mouth. Tell Yusuke to keep his girlfriend away from large amounts of sugar in the future, ok?

Mental note already made, he blinked a few times, then shook his head.

Now who's whispering? Botan smirked.

she looked around briefly. I don't see anyone whispering. Do you see anyone whispering, Kurama?

Not at all, he smiled, playing along. You must be imagining things.

A/N: I just finished this at 12:23 am. (before answering reviews) Why? Because it's REALLY freaking hot in here and I can't sleep. :p Also, I'm sorry to say this... ::takes cover behind couch:: ...but I'll have to put this story on hold for awhile. I have a deadline I need to make for another story I'm planning on entering into the Writers of the Future contest. About half I have typed up already, and another 1/4 written in the back of my now unneeded English notebook (I'M FREE!! WOOHOO!!) but I still have to write the rest of it, tweak it, have people proofread and such, and all that jazz. All in all, might be a span of two weeks, and then I'll have to type up the next chappie to this. ::puppy eyes:: Please be patient with me! I need money for college! Plus if you ask nicely I'll let you read my contest entry when I'm done. ==

Review Responses:

raindropsRteardrops- Hopefully that patience will last. ;; I laughed when your review for ch. 14 came just as i posted 15. lol it was funny.

Kitsune Kit- Oh no doubt the fluffyness would be coming in mounds now. --;; I love fluff, yet I hate it. Does that make sense? o.O

Lcc- ::evil grin:: She'll never tell! bwahaha! ::chokes, coughs::

reonari- Thanks! I like the funny. hehe. Now...Update your story!! here, I'll send you some reviewers for inspiration.

YO!! ::waves arms franticly:: Be nice peoples and walk on over to reonari's story The Enchantress!! It's awesome and deserves more recognition. That is all. ::sits back down::

ReiRei-chan-I heart Reanef. He's such a cutie!!! ::squee:: Eclipse is one fine demon though. i want to play with his hair. Just once!! == I hope you weren't thinking the same thing! Overly naughty!! ::snickers:: I need a romping partner also. ::sad face:: Maybe I'll put an ad in the paper. LOL Now who is this Ae person, hmm? Doesn't seem very nice. You be nice to ReiRei-chan!! ::shakes fist::

TheFireYoukaiPage- I told you already, didn't I? I'm so dirty!! ::hides::

Ookami Aya- I can believe that. :;giggles::

Jade Aislin- Well I'm glad you got bored too! You wouldn't beleive how hard it was to get in his mindset. I'm still not happy with the results either. Grr. But he will appear again, no matter what the torture I put myself through. lol I'm glad you think it's the best, you're doing well in feeding my ego. I'll have to find a pin to pop my big head...
In regards to your question, I believe they think it's rude to speak Japanese around her, unless they forget and Eris has to ask what they said. It'll be indicated when she hears something she doesn't understand.
Oh! And thank little Touya for the popsicle for me. He's so adorable!! ::squee:: .

Kagomegirl555- Glad you like it! Yes, I do enjoy the cliffhangers. bwahaha!!

EverKitsune- You get a cookie because you made me wonder what the tea would do to him and therefore saved me from horrendus writer's block. ::hands over cookie:: Yay for you! Yes, math does need to die. Is it bad that I left 14 unanswered questions on my final? o.O No I haven't seen Troy yet. I opted to see Harry Potter twice instead. LOVED IT!! ::huggles Harry:: I'll check yer story out when I've got a spare hour.

yodai hiro- Thank you!!

InuKurama- Would that really be a bad thing I wonder...?? ::naughty thoughts:: AHH! Now look what you've done!!

polaris-fire-star- No. lol just kidding. More fluff?? This thing is going to turn into a marshmallow soon... No I won't tell. It's just too bad. ::laughs and runs away::

Crimson Zephyr- Loving the screen name.

WildRashi- Thanks! I like her too. And Ducky. ::huggles Ducky::
Ducky: Heeey now! Hands off!
Nefus: Oooh touchy, aren't we? Here. ::Hands over pic of some random bishie:: Have fun!

Koroga- I'm spinning in my chair with glee! ::happily marks down 10 points:: It's true, now I truly do want to ask. Washu was impressed, eh? Interesting... ::evil grin::
Washu- You drive an incredibly hard bargain, did you know that? Shame on you for tempting me! I'd rather hoped people thought I had more honor than that. ::whispers:: How about just a peek??
Hiei- As for you- ::creepy sing song voice:: I'll never teeeell!! Besides, I probably wouldn't be allowed to live if I did and I'd like to live out my remaining 1300 years.
Kurama- Don't worry, I won't say anything. Even though teasing you does amuse me to no end, I am an honorable woman. Well, at least partially. You're cute when you blush. Washu seems to enjoy her shamlessness almost as much as me. ::laughs::

Em- I know. I opted for the easy way out. lol

RhapsodyDreaming- She does rock, doesn't she? yayy Eris!

AmaiKyuti- Thanks!

Anime Creature- Thank you! I do try my hardest on this.

1:46 am. Good Lord...I'll never get any sleep at this rate...And someone tell these bugs to stop crawling on my screen!! Stupid break lines wont work either... ::pouts::