FIK: HELLO FANFICTION DOT NET! Hey, I would like to apologize profoundly for disappearing for so long. You see... MY COMPUTER DIED! (SOB CHOKE SOB) it took FOREVER to get it fixed and then when it did this chapter and the next one... GONE! (HOWLS) But, don't worry, I'll try my dardnest to keep this one going. Please, I need support here.

(Grabs closest thing to her and sobs on it)

Hiei: (getting very wet) Onna... GET THE HELL OFF ME!

FIK: (ignores and blows nose on shirt)

Hiei: AHH! THAT'S MY SHIRT BAKA!

Disclaimer: Why? Why? WHY!

"Botan? Are you almost ready?"

Yukina's timid tenor flowed through the closed doorway in Botan's apartment. It was the night of the Reikai Ball and Shizuru, Keiko and Yukina had come to get ready here. Two hours worth of giggling, comparing and decisions had gone by, filled with the habitual compassionate delight found only between the closest of companions. Warm smiles, humorous tales, small surprises, sarcastic phrases, all accompanied by a flourish of happiness. They were trying, she could tell, trying to make her forget what had happened and cheering her all the while. Regretfully, Botan obscured her lamenting spirit, producing a facade of grins and admiration when needed.

"Hai, Yukina-chan. I'll be done shortly." Botan chirped back.

She heard soft footsteps retreating from the door, allowing her to let out the breath she had been holding. For a moment, she was scared that Yukina would open the door and find her, delicate tears dripping down her cheeks, clenched fists in the folds of her gown. That would have been disastrous. She knew that the gateway holding her together would have fallen open, releasing all confusion and iced over hatred towards...

She stopped. Taking a determined breath, she forced her mind to focus back on the current situation. No use agonizing over a lost cause, ne? Smoothing miniscule wrinkles from the gown, she carefully whipped away any remainder of her brief breakage, reapplying a light layer of neutral colored powder on her face. Giving herself one last, evaluating look-over, she hurriedly exited her room, walking in quick strides to join the three other women. Each exchanged nervous smiles, and then waited as Botan opened up a portal specially designed to transport guests to the ball without the nasty side effects of being tossed out the other end. Imagine if all the guests were thrown out of portals and into the room? What a bit of pandemonium that would be...

The Reikai Ball was nothing short of a spectacle, filled to the brim with domineering cooks, debonair waiters, suave businessmen, sophisticated bachelors, eye-catching beauties, flirtatious Mademoiselles; all of which mingled and greeted in intricate, spiraling patterns that twirled and twisted on the whim of a handshake, a salutation, a smile. Every year, on the same day, at the same hour, the Ball would begin with a short speech given by none other than King Yama himself, his booming baritone vibrating in the bones of all present, elating each and every guest to know that their fates were held by a being so sturdy and all-knowing. At his side, pacifier long hidden in his pocket, was the teenaged formed Prince Koenma, standing dignified in formal hakama and crested overcoat.

Trimmed in sparkling whites and misty grays, the ballroom was that of vast splendor and grandeur. Pearly stones of marble exhibited the symbols of greatness and renowned leaders, flanking the cascade of pure crystallized staircase that flowed downwards on a gentle curve, where it melted into the extraordinarily soundproof terrazzo. The flooring itself proudly presented a showcase of mosaic designs like no other, and never seen by the eyes of ordinary creatures, swirling in elaborate motifs of great passion, toned with burgundy, bronze, jade and numerous shades of cobalt. Surrounding this piece of brilliance, were hundreds of round tables, enclosed in satin coverings of rich indigos and attired with flickering, softly scented candles, along with the finest of cutlery. Actually, entire area was lit in the same manner, though the flames were not hot and the candles not wax; so magical was the atmosphere with these arrays of enchanted elements. Indeed, the planning of the ball made certain that no sort of discomfort or trouble would occur during the twilight hours of fascination and ease.

All this and more was what a guest came across when entering through heavy oaken doors, held open by immaculate guards, who's eyes never strayed and position nary differenced. And this is what beheld a group of four young women, each holding their own impression within, though all held the same starry-eyed expression of marvel.

A tall auburn brunette, hair down and softly curled, led them, encased in a simple, yet breathtaking number: the satin seemed to have been wrapped around the women in artistic folds, but in truth was just one layered fabric. It had a single, curving slit, rising to where the hip met the leg and pinned together by a glittering diamond pin shaped into a delicate blossom. Sleeveless, the dress had a curving neckline, pertaining modesty and seduction at the same time, and then coming together at the back of the neck with a simple hoop-n-catch, overall looking like a gown fit for a Greek princess. The entire piece was of one color, a complimentary hue that can be described solely as a rose red, though the ends deepened to a scarlet near the bottom at her calves. Along with this, she wore only a pair of matching earrings and bracelet, her heels also a deep rose color.

Besides her was another brunette, though her hair was wavy and darker, her eyes more determined and youthful. She wore a shorter dress, in a pretty golden tone, with sheer white sleeves that were just off the shoulder. The neckline was a triangular dip, where it met a white lacey collar, and then joined the sleeves to the backside of the gown, which was also a triangular dip that ended just below her mid back. It hugged gently around her, snuggly fitting to her waist and chest area, but loose enough to move around in easily. She wore strapping, ankle high sandals in a light brown and a gold chain necklace with a symbol for 'spirit' dangling on the end. At her ears were matching hoops also, though she did not wear any rings or bracelets. Her hair was done in a half up, half down fashion, the ends wavy from the bow that held them up.

Just behind them was the young ice koorime, her mint green hair in a stylish twisting bun, two strands of hair allowed down to frame her naïve, though mature features. Instead of a western fashioned gown, she wore a kimono made for special occasions such as this. Done in a beautiful shade of blue, the kimono was stitched with a wintry design of subtle snowflakes, outlined by silvery clouds around the obi only to disappear into the folded neckline. The sleeves were the same tone of blue, a warm turquoise colored underskirt sprouting out the ends, and about three inches at the ankles. Her obi was also of the turquoise fabric, doubled up and shaped into a curvy bow on her back. Beneath, she wore a pair of traditional sandals, black, with ankle-length white socks. She adorned a twisting silver and gold bracelet, a sapphire gem glittering proudly from the top, up at the simple twin studs in her small lobes.

Last, but certainly not least, was a ferry girl well known in the Spirit world. Her face portrayed a captivated expression, but her actions, in addition to lowered eyes, were subdued. She was wearing a striking dress that was not only beautiful, but seeming magical too. It was made of silk, dyed lavender, shady in one moment and light in the next, nearly glowing when next to any candles. The back was a low curving U, intricate straps affixing it together. There were no sleeves, like the first, substituted with thin cords of fabric crossing over her shoulders and connecting to the opposite sides of the dress in the back. Lilac rhinestones rained down, three different sizes forming raindrop-like patterns (Like this: . o O), until reaching her waist where they diminished gradually until the bottom hem at her calves. She also had on spotless white gloves, reaching up to her elbows, a silver bracelet around one wrist. A thin silver necklace hung from her slender neck, though what charm there may had been at the end was hidden in the dress.

Through the held doors, these radiant blossoms swept into the ballroom, eyes staring at them from all directions. It was astounding, really, by how unaware each of them seemed to be towards the gazes locked onto them; those that were admiring and desirous, and the ones jealous and contemptuous. In the background, lively salsa music spun swaying tunes, lithe dancers sashaying across the floor, dresses and coattails rustling in time, colors blending and melding together into a moving creation of silks and velvets.

Upper class demons impressed dazzled ladies with stories of thrilling escapades, flashing their fanged smiles, markings displayed like flags of brilliance. Deities, demons, elves, sprites and all sorts of fantastic beings talked with one another, mixing and mingling as one during the only time of year that so many species of intelligent creatures came together for a single, untainted purpose. There were a select few that were humans, or partly, but only those of great importance or under employment for Reikai. So, it was only natural that their group would receive so much, and rather unwanted, attention, seeing that it consisted of a (rare) ice koorime, the Grim Reaper, and not one, but two humans and female at that

"Is it me, or do we get stared at a lot?" Shizuru murmured, leading them down the grand staircase.

"Yes, I've noticed that too. I wonder why...?" Keiko said quietly, shuddering as a (drunken) demon looked her over with something close to hunger.

"Well, you two are humans, and I'm an ice koorime and Botan is the Grim Reaper, so it is rather odd for us to be a group." Yukina thought out loud.

Keiko and Shizuru both nodded in agreement. Coming to a halt at an empty table, Shizuru gently placed Botan in a seat, being that Botan wasn't very interested in anything, constantly stuck between reality and her unconscious mind. Shizuru sighed softly, watching sympathetically as the blue-haired deity absently took a sip of water from the glass before her, face blank, eyes changing color rapidly with each new thought.

"We should go greet Koenma-sama," Keiko said quietly. Shizuru nodded vaguely, allowing her to be guided away and through the mass of high class beings surrounding them, leaving Botan isolated in a sea of silhouettes and sparkling wine...

Darkness looms,

Silence deafens listening ears.

Waiting in empty rooms,

Ribbons bathed with crimson smears.

Uncertain, Hesitant...

Hours creep by,

No movement stirs Winter's breath.

Decision struggles in a knotted tie,

As though caught within sudden death.

Anger, Wondering...

One way,

Freedom, Remedy, Solemnity, Loneliness...

The other,

Confusion, Questions, Passion, Eternity...

Perplexed, Resolve...

Hiei woke to murmuring, lowered tones. He listened intently, feeling naught but confusion as to where he was. Midnight covers were tangled around his legs, trapping him motionless in his current position. From what he could see (and he could see little in the meagerly lit room) his arm had been freshly bandaged, though some blood still seeped through the thick bindings.

Tension ran darkly through his veins, followed shortly by a surge of adrenaline. Flashes danced in his mind, blow after blow of what had occurred relived with thrice the intensity in a few short minutes.

"You are awake."

Emerald eyes appeared before his gaze, accompanied by long red hair.

"Kurama."

He nodded, shifting slightly to the left. Now Hiei could see Yusuke, his cinnamon eyes glittering somewhat, black hair disheveled and unkempt.

"You too, Yusuke?" Hiei muttered. He tilted his head enough to make sure he hadn't missed anyone. He had, for there was Touya, calmly sitting just beyond his line of view. Hiei scowled, wondering what the heck they were all doing here. Where was 'here' anyways?

"Hn. Touya."

"Hiei." He answered, keeping his sea colored eyes turned sharply away for some reason. This bemused Hiei somewhat; they had never been considered 'friends', but they held respect towards one another, so why the nervousness?

Storing this for later examination, Hiei turned back to the other two, his lips folding into a frown. He tried to move, but found himself unable. His frown was turned onto the silent kitsune still standing motionlessly besides the bed, his question clear as crystal.

"I immobilized you Hiei. You see, your body wouldn't stop thrashing and..."

"You don't have to explain, fox; I can read your thoughts. Just release me."

A second later, Hiei felt a great weight lifted off of him and suddenly he was able to move freely and with great ease. No sooner than he discovered this, he had shot off the mattress, making his way towards the door, one intention sitting heavily in his mind. There was a tug and Hiei halted, staring down at a hand on his arm. Glowering eyes bore into Kurama's calm emerald ones, bluntly hissing for him to 'let go or die.'

"Do not rush off as such Hiei. I know what you are planning to do, and I want to help you. I would like to suggest something before we go, though."

Hiei's eyes narrowed, "What is it."

Kurama's lip twitched, a small grin barely hidden in time.

"It's the Reikai Ball, Hiei..."

It took Hiei about half a second for him to figure out what he meant.

"Hn."

Botan sat alone, sipping absently at a glass of champagne a waiter had brought her. Truly, the bubbling, fruity liquid was delicious and softened the chatter around her, but still, everything seemed too bright, too huge, too... flawless. Laughter drifted up from the dance floor, aromas carrying the tender scents of unnamable delicacies teasing her nose, making her stomach growl. Unwavering, she refused to give into the temptations, for if she did, what had occurred would slip her mind and that could not happen. No, she did not deserve to be here; she was dreadful, she was revolting, annoying, air headed, stupid, girlish, weak, useless-

A tap on the shoulder made Botan gasp, her head jerking upwards, eyes wide and confused. The offending hand slid back to the side of its owner, who stood watching Botan with curious eyes. He was tall, maybe a foot more than her, with long violet hair that came down to his shoulders, deeply tanned skin over a built body. His face was sharp and perfect, one that seemed to have been carved out of marble by the hand of a master, refined and angelic. His eyes were navy, a deep, watery blue, hidden pools of shady cobalt. A similar colored stripe ran down from one eyebrow, coming to a rest near his chin.

"Uh, hi, who are you?" Botan managed to squeak out.

The man flashed a white smile, bowing so that his hair hid his face and rained down next to his cheeks.

"Forgive me for my rudeness. I am Ryoushi Takanawa. Excuse me for being forwards, but may I ask why a beautiful deity such as your self is all alone?"

His charm was magic on her drained self-image, perking her up slightly. He seemed to be a gentleman, a handsome gentleman at that...

"I just haven't felt like joining in quite yet. I came with my friends, but it seems that they have forgotten me in the excitement." She said, allowing herself to smile at him.

"I understand what you mean. My company has also gotten pulled into the clamor. It seems that we share the same fate. Perhaps you wouldn't mind joining another forgotten companion for a dance?"

It had to have been his irresistible charm again; for why else would she allow herself to be swept away and pulled into the world she longed to escape? Before the dance started, she caught the eyes of Koenma, who was chatting optimistically with Ayame, his, now blushing, date. He gazed at her with a troubled expression, something close to remorse flickering in his tawny eyes. What was he thinking?

"Might I ask what the name of my exquisite deity?"

Botan brought her attention back to the attractive male holding her gently in his arms. She flushed, ashamed that she had been ignoring him when he had so readily helped her out of her slump.

"Fujiiro... Botan Fujiiro (1)."

Once again, he bathed her with his white smile, a pair of sharp canines unseen by her lowered eyes. At that moment the music struck up a lonely melody, sending dancers into a swaying swirl of dulling hues and aching hearts. Above it all, walking through the oaken doors came four men, all having the same look of purpose set on their faces...

Vixen's G-Den

(1) Fujiiro: light purple, lavender

FIK: So here is the eighth chapter and once again I leave you with a cliffy. Sorry folks, but it'll be another week before I can get the next one up. Going on vacation. Heh heh, don't kill me.

Hiei: (hides sword behind back) Damn...

REVIEW AS IF YOUR LIFE DEPENDED ON IT! (And it probably does)