Disclaimer: Characters belong to Togashi-sama
An Unusual Attraction
Shishiwakamaru: Omi-san
Touya: Midori-san
The sunlight crept across the tatami mats and slowly, as if reverently, and alighted on a hand that poked out from under the fine embroidered blanket. The light expanded to show a bare shoulder poking out above the blanket, and from that reached a long thin, pale neck, partially swathed in fine blue hair. The face of the figure in question was beautiful and calm in sleep. On the pillow beside him rested the hilt of a clearly coveted sword, denoting him as samurai.
The morning sunlight...Morning was one of his favorite times of day, and that morning the petite Shinobi had crept out to survey its radiant glory as it swept upwards from the horizon. Crouched in a tree branch, he would watch as best as he could as it rose, and only when it was in the sky, would he turn away. Down he went, a quiet leap to the ground, and slowly he pattered towards the room where many of the others slept. Though most were awake already...there was Shishi...still sleeping. Touya paused for a moment to take him in curiously with those opaque eyes, then shook his head with a faint smirk. He had training to accomplish. He had to stay honed...ready...changing swiftly, he would try to creep out once more.
As the others around him started stirring, getting out of bed and getting dressed a faint frown crossed the face of the beautiful young demon. "Can't you all be quieter," he muttered, voice thick with sleep as he rolled over and pressed his face into the pillow, pulling the blankets up around his head. While awake he was a trained and well-disciplined samurai; but he had yet to actually develop into a decent morning person. Fortunately, Suzuki had quickly learned this and let his teammate sleep in, but Genkai proved to be less... 'understanding'. Which really means, less afraid of him killing her in his sleep for waking him in the morning.
He froze, turning those opaque eyes on Shishi with a faint scowl, those hues narrowing. More and more he had been seeing that...at least in morning's...he was not a morning person. During the day of course...he was different.. when the ice Shinobi was close...he still preferred solitude at the moment when he could afford it. He was still confused, but Genkai was slowly providing that there were other things to do while searching for the light. "It's past morning..." he said quietly, stretching a little as he stopped in the doorway, staring back at the lovely, blue-haired demon thoughtfully.
A heavy sigh issued with a great gust from under the blanket, and then it was tossed aside and Shishi sat up, stretching and running his hands through his only slightly sleep-mussed hair. Glaring at all around him he stood up, his pajama pants riding low around his trim hips as he sauntered over to where his clothing was stored. Picking up his haori, he pulled it on over his bare chest, then stepped out of his pants and pulled on his bound hakama trousers, not at all caring who might be watching him dress. Still looking rather cross, he picked up his hairbrush and set to brushing out his hair.
He had turned at that great gusting, in time to see Shishi stepping up and storming to his belongings. Those trim hips seemed to sway faintly and the boy found himself watching in some wonder for a moment while the other dressed before turning away with a faint flush, turning to leave, perhaps before the other grew annoyed. He hadn't gotten to know anyone else yet...all he still had was Jin...and Jin was enjoying the sky so much that Touya felt more alone more and more often. Leaning against the doorway, just outside, he closed his eyes, once more contemplating. He felt a little lost, but that was certainly no new sensation. Calling out a greeting, surely to interrupt the disgruntled bishounen inside. "Good morning..."
Shishi pulled his hair back and headed out the door, pausing as he drew even with Touya. He was sometimes rash and self-absorbed, but he wasn't a complete oblivious fool- he could tell Touya felt awkward. Shishi was used to being around others- those who admired him, and those he was training with. This whole situation was not particularly new to him, as he had even had training with a sword master when he was younger, but he did not fail to notice that Touya seemed quite uncomfortable with the whole situation- more and more as Jin, his 'rock' was away. "Now surely you're not going to linger here until Genkai yells at you. We all know she only enjoys scolding me."
His eyes narrowed a little, but more in thought than in anger. A slow nod as he flicked those four green bangs from his face, tilting them to the side of his face. "No...I was thinking of heading out training again. I don't need the old woman yelling at me." he replied in that even, quiet tone as he stared up at the other demon. Shishi always seemed at ease around the large group Genkai had collected, and Touya didn't doubt that the demon as long used to being admired for his beauty and skills, and knew how to handle the crowds much better than he himself did.
Despite not being a morning demon, Shishi was feeling rather amicable that day. He had had a splendid evening the night before, having gone into the city and spent the evening surrounded by doting fan girls- a nice foil to the haggard old nag, Genkai, who didn't seem to notice how beautiful he was. Thoughtlessly, he tossed an arm around Touya's shoulders. "Well then, come on. She'll be less likely to attack me if you're there by my side."
He started at the sudden arm slung about his shoulder and looked up at the taller, blue haired demon in wonder, nodding slowly. "Yeah...sure thing..." he murmured, deciding that perhaps it wouldn't be that bad. He seemed to take a look around, but for the life of him he couldnt trace Jin's energy anywhere nearby...ah well.. why not? "Sure...where are you going then? Just out into the woods to train like the others?"
"Of course. I have to at least start there, so that that old bat knows I'm training and not 'primping and grooming' all day." He sighed and rolled his eyes. "She really does give me a hard time, you know. I would almost think she doesn't like me." He laughed wryly at that. "I've no idea why..."
He had a feeling the other's excessive primping had something to do with it. That and his tries to win her over by flipping his hair prettily...they hadn't seemed to go to well, and Genkai treated them all the same more or less. "So.. let's head out then..." he wriggled under that arm a little, turning his head upwards to the sky...smirking faintly as he felt the suns rays dripping down on him. The Ningenkai was much better than the desolate recesses of the make.
Shishi started walking, tightening his grip around Touya's shoulders almost unconsciously as the smaller demon fidgeted away. He kept turning his head slightly whenever they passed any slightly reflective surface so he could see his own face- and reflected back he saw his face, and the paler face of the Ice Master. "Well, we make a pretty pair," he remarked, bemused.
Touya was brought closer at Shishi's arm closing a little and when the other would give pause to study himself, Touya would look up, and a few times he even found himself doing the same. He...had to admit. Shishi was beautiful...and when the other spoke so suddenly, he cast him a look askance and snorted. Him? Pretty? Hardly. He was the Ice Master, he didn't need anything else.. and...he wasn't nearly as pretty as Shishi...
Shishi heard the snort and frowned. Turning his violet eyes on Touya, he raised one fine eyebrow. "You don't think yourself attractive, Touya?" he inquired sharply. "Now what would make you think that?"
He was a little startled at the other's sudden vocal changes, looking at him with those opaque cerulean orbs. "I didn't say that, Shishi..." he offered in some discomfort at being questioned. It was one thing to know the truth inside...but to be confronted on it..
"Look here," Shishi said sharply, grabbing both of Touya's shoulders with firm hands and pushing him around so that he came face to face with the mirror they were standing by. Leaning down so he could gaze over Touya's shoulder, he gave the Ice Master a hard look. "How can you look at yourself and not realize that you're actually quite attractive? I realize you lived in the darkness and shadows for a long time without mirrors or any admiring glances, but really.. I should know attractive when I see it, shouldn't I?"
A yelp as he was turned around so quickly and forced to confront himself. At first he tried to look away but Shishi's presence at his shoulder made him look up once more and gaze at himself. That pale face, lips half parted...and those large, opaque eyes...Jin had always been the only one to like his eyes before, despite their lack of a discernable pupil. "I...suppose...so." he offered with a faint chuckle. "Not that's it's too important...but...I guess I am..."
Shishi sighed and looked mildly cross. "You guess. Well, I suppose it's a start." He released Touya and stepped back, turning his eyes down the hallway they needed to transverse before getting outside. Glancing back over his shoulder, he teased, "I'll have to beat it into you. Good thing I think I'm supposed to fight you today during training. It will give me the perfect opportunity."
The petite ice Shinobi was stunned for a moment at the other's outrageous remarks, but just as soon snorted lightly in amusement at the jest and hurried after him as he began to walk down that long hallway. "If you think you can defeat me. I've been practicing, and I'm not the easiest of opponents, you know..." he actually grinned a little then before it faded once more to his normal face of neutrality
Shishi shrugged carelessly. "I'm sure you'll be a tough opponent indeed. That's what will make the fight interesting." He pushed the door open, and stepped out, slipping his sandals on and treading quietly towards the woods where the others had already gathered, in theory.
Touya paused to adjust the cloth on his feet, glancing at where the sandals had been, shrugging. When avoidable, the demon never wore shoes, and luckily here he was able to only go with the barest minimum of that cloth. Slipping after him, they headed into the forest, stopping in the normal meeting place for that time of day. He sighed, failing to sense Jin right off once more, but said nothing.
Shishi arrived, and replied to Suzuki's scowl with a haughty look, turning his face away. Suzuki treated him disdainfully because Shishi wouldn't bed him, or so Shishi told himself. The samurai turned to Touya then, offering a hand to him while placing the other on the hilt of his sword. "Shall we fight, Ice Master? I want to see exactly how difficult an opponent you really are."
He grinned lightly and nodded as he took a step back, gauging the pretty demon intently. "We will...any terms or just like all the others?" he asked, referring to the matches they had all practiced against one another thus far. Already in a defensive stance, his hands seeming to glow the softest of blues as he readied his ice powers
Shishi stepped back, pleased at the others eagerness. "Well, that depends. I'm always ready to fight with my sword, but if you prefer to fight without weapons, I could probably use training in hand to hand as much as anything."
"Why don't we try a hand to hand for now...and depending on the results we can try with weapons of choice as well afterwards? Its best to try and keep it varied so we learn from both." he said with a faintly eager smile. HE did like fighting, like this at least.
Shishi nodded, slipping his sword from his belt and leaning it reverently against a tree. Stepping back into the clearing, he settled into a defensive stance, facing Touya. "Very well. Let us begin, shall we?"
Touya gave him time to set his weapon aside. He knew all too well from studying the other how much he seemed to cherish the blade. Falling back as well, one leg back for balance, he nodded, those stiffened green bangs bounding lightly, falling half over his eyes. "Let's begin." he agreed
Shishi's eyes flashed with pleasure at the prospect of the upcoming fight, and from a standstill, he suddenly lunged forward, ducking low and aiming to clock Touya in the side, if the blow connected.
It barely missed, as Touya danced to the side, grinning. That had been almost too close of a call though, and it wouldn't do for the fight to end too soon a weakness few thought of. True he was a petite creature, but he was quite fast as well, and he would use that to advantage. Coming to a stop it was his turn to attack, lunging at the samurai, leg raised for a snap kick to his chest.
The blow connected, Shishi more used to watching his opponent for a sword than for their feet, yet it was only glancing as he had jumped back, and he used the momentum of the blow to flip backwards, landing elegantly, hair falling around his shoulders. Thoughtfully he regarded Touya for a brief moment, then attacked again, fists out and hoping to catch the other even a glancing blow that would hopefully be enough to slow the other demon down- giving Shishi a chance for a better attack.
One of the first blows from those fists connected, alighting in his side, then another glancing him in the shoulder. He gasped lightly but smiled, trying his best to dance through them before turning, a roundhouse kick aiming for the other demons middle. This was proving to be a wonderful release of energy...and a chance to forget he was so alone at the moment
Shishi stepped aside lightly, quick on his own feet, and lunged in under the blow, crouching down and swinging out with his own foot, trying to knock Touya's legs out from under him.
That foot connected solidly with his right leg and he fell to the ground, immediately shifting his body so he rolled. As the other approached, he leapt to his feet, aiming a few rapid punches for his shoulders
Shishi laughed wryly as a blow hit his shoulder, sending him spinning halfway around, his back to Touya. Glancing over his shoulder at the shorter demon, his eyes sparkled with enjoyment at the fight.
He was actually grinning at Shishi for once, as opposed to his normally closed, neutral face that showed nothing but wariness if Jin wasn't close. But no...now he was enjoying himself, perhaps even...opening up to the other a little, at least in combat. "I believe that was a solid connection."
"Quite," was the wry reply, as Shishi thrilled that Touya was enjoying himself as openly as he was. The Ice Master was so cold and composed all the time, but now... "Are you going to stand there laughing, or attack me again?" he teased, still not turning around.
"Hrmm." his eyes narrowed in concentration and he burst forward, feinting immediately to the left, around Shishi, moving to attempt another roundhouse. He was rather enjoying his fight with the normally arrogant samurai...and thoughts of his safety net to the ground had vanished for a time.
As the blow swung towards him, Shishi reached down and grabbed at Touya's ankle, pitching forward and trying to throw Touya over his shoulder.
That hadn't been an expected move, and he silently congratulated his opponent, though his eyes narrowed lightly, deigning that he would have to train harder to defeat him. Shishi was a good fighter, with or without his sword. He gave a small cry of surprise as his ankle was grabbed, lithe body swung up and over the other demon's shoulder.
Gleeful, Shishi followed through with the move so that he landed on top of Touya, at least momentarily pinning him to the ground. Shishi perched on his back, breathing heavily.
He wriggled in surprise as the weight on his back, looking at the other with an indignant look "Ahn! Hey! You're a lot heavier than me!" he mock growled as he tried to wriggle out from under Shishi.
"Are you calling me fat?" Shishi demanded, settling himself more firmly and willing himself to be heavy. "I deeply and truly resent that, little Shinobi."
"He tried unsuccessfully to buck himself upwards, gasping at the added weight on his hips." Get off, Shishi! You're heavy!" he was almost laughing again, trying to hold himself somewhat up from the ground, not wanting a face full of dirt.
Shishi laughed, reaching down to grip the back of Touya's tunic tightly. "What is this? Some stupid American rodeo?" He could feel Suzuki's jealous eyes on them, but he was quite amusing himself.
He shook himself once more, keeping his arms balanced on either side of himself so that he didn't fall completely flat on his face. "I'm not a pony, Shishi! Get off me!" You're heavy!" once more the sound of laughter was edging his voice, and his trim hips shifted at the weight once more under Shishi.
Finally Shishi released his grip and Touya's shaking sent Shishi tumbling to the ground where he sprawled rather inelegantly on his back, eyes closed as he shook with silent laughter.
He immediately rounded and pinned the other by one shoulder for a long moment, glaring down at him, though those eyes held a little...mischief to them. Then he stood, shaking himself off and trying to clean his front of dirt.
Shishi didn't look particularly ruffled, and pushed himself to his feet, dusting off his own clothing. Walking to the tree he picked up his sword and gave Suzuki a haughty look, only to find himself challenged again. Shrugging, he followed Suzuki deeper into the woods for what could have been a sparring match, a lecture, or a quick shag.
Touya watched Shishi walk away and felt a faint pang in his chest. Glancing about, he slipped off once more, deciding his time in solitude would be well spent. resting balanced on the lower branch of a tree, he stretched out, staring down at the ground. Only a span away from where Shishi and Suzuki had gone, though his only intentions had been to find a nice place to meditate.
Suzuki spun on Shishi, pushing him into a tree and speaking to him in a low, harsh voice. Shishi glared at him and hissed, both of them too quiet for Touya to hear. The argument went on some minutes before Suzuki punched him in the stomach and stalked off as Shishi curled around his injured stomach.
The little ice Shinobi looked up at this, catching the movements in his peripheral vision. Eyes widened as Shishi was punched, and now lay curled up. Dropping to the ground with Shinobi silenced. HE crept towards him, glancing about before stopping, kneeling before him. "Shishi...?" he said hesitantly, unsure if the other would even want him there...
Shishi coughed and laughed harshly, slowly uncurling and stretching out on his back to gaze up at Touya. "Oh, you really are around. Suzuki would love to know that."
"Ne?" His eyes narrowed lightly in confusion as he looked at Shishi, frowning. "Did he...injure you? Or is it just a bad bruise?" he asked, ignoring words about Suzuki. Why would Suzuki love to hear that?
"No, not really. He doesn't really want to hurt me. He just caught me off guard. He's threatened to hit me before, and I've probably deserved it before, but this time he actually did it and I wasn't ready for it." He sat up, trying to play it off as amusing, but his pupils had narrowed to slits, making it clear that he was actually quite angry.
He didn't ask why, only nodding when the other revealed that, while it hurt, he wasn't badly injured. "Perhaps you should go and rest for a time then...?"
"Oh no. I've got to plot my revenge," Shishi replied, hands clenching into fists at his sides. "I'm thinking pink hair dye in his shampoo bottle might do it..."
He blinked, confusion in his opaque eyes as he stepped back, nodding slowly. "If...you say so, Shishi..."
Shishi glanced at Touya from the corner of his eyes, before pushing himself painfully to his feet. "No, you're right. I'm going to go inside and lie down until I get over this murderous rage."
Another bewildered nod as he stepped back, out of Shishi's way. He could feel the waves of anger and wasn't frankly surprised. He had taken his share of abuse in his life at points, he could understand the anger the other felt.
"He's just jealous!" Shishi exploded. 'I was stupid enough, and young enough to sleep with him when I first joined his team, and now he seems to think he has some sort of... control over me. And when he saw us fighting, he just got jealous. And I sometimes want to kill him."
Touya nearly leapt back in surprise at the vehement tone sliding from the other so angrily. Eyes widened at the words as he began to piece it together, but he nodded slowly, frowning. "Then it's Suzuki who is the fool...for trying to claim what isn't his..." he said carefully, stepping back. Somehow the ice demon wondered just why it was him that had made Suzuki angry...or if it was just something that had been building up
Shishi regarded Touya quietly, thoughtfully, for a long moment, then shrugged and leaned back against a tree. "So it would seem," he said softly. "But he certainly didn't like watching you and I having such an amusing time."
He felt the barest hint of a blush touch on his cheeks as he looked up at Shishi through the spiky bangs that shadowed his eye. He didn't see how someone as confident as Suzuki could feel any threat form him...a little ice demon who preferred to stay by himself now. "He is being foolish..." he said flatly.
Shishi smirked faintly. "Or maybe he's not. It's rather hard to say, at this point in time, isn't it?" Gently he placed his hand on Touya's shoulder and allowed it to linger for just a moment. "I'm going inside to have some tea," he finally said. "Care to join me?"
He felt the hand on his shoulder, and it seemed that perhaps that slender hand rested a little longer than normal on his shoulder. HE nodded to the offer, grateful for it. Here, Shishi was making overtures of friendship while Jin was gone...and for once...he didn't want to spend his time alone, depressing himself. "I...would be pleased to join you." he said, that faint trace of a smile returning
The samurai cocked his head slightly, rather surprised that Touya had agreed. He knew the other tended to stay with Jin, or no one at all, but he was accepting an offer from Shishi himself. Well, what was to complain about- an attractive Ice Master was going to have tea with him. "Good. Come. Let us return." Bowing his head slightly to Touya, he turned back towards the temple, his footsteps soft on the grass.
Shishi normally spent his time with the others, and he had never felt the other cared to pay him much attention. But he honestly didn't need any extra attention to complete his training and whatever else was needed. Unlike Jin...he was just outside that happy circle they had seemed to somewhat loosely conform to. Still, here he was following after the beautiful Samurai, his own bare feet carrying him near soundlessly behind him
Upon reaching the temple, Shishi stepped out of his sandals and headed in, gesturing at one of the many small rooms. "Wait here. I'll get the tea."
Touya nodded slowly at the quiet command, sinking down to sit at the small table. He bowed his head, resting his hands on his knees lightly in thought while he waited.
It didn't take long to make the tea, and Shishi reentered with a pot and two elegant glasses, one of which he set before Touya, the other before himself. Then he poured them both glasses and set the pot down. "Thank you for joining me," he said softly, before his gaze shifted and he found himself looking outside at the play of sunlight on the grass.
"You're welcome...thanks for inviting me..." he responded with a faint blush at his...bewilderment, awkwardly trying to hide it as he lifted the ornate cup gingerly, taking a whiff of the tea reverently. "Thank you for inviting me, Shishi..."
"I thought perhaps you could use some company. You seem rather out of sorts and bewildered with Jin off...doing whatever it is he does..." he waved his hand dismissively, "All the time. It must hurt you, does it not? For him to suddenly be gone so often? I know you two were... close."
He noted the delicate way the other turned the phrase and let out a soft chuckle. "We weren't lovers, if that's what you think...but after working together so long...we were best friends...he's all I have...but I guess he's able to move past everything and he's off...finding the light and enjoying himself." the words, lilted with a false cheerfulness, didn't become the Shinobi. "I appreciate it."
Shishi looked mildly surprised, and if Touya bothered to note, there was a hint of pleasure in his face as well. "You weren't lovers? And there I thought I was a good judge of such things. I was certain that you were... or at least that one or the other of you wanted to be."
Again the lightest of pink tinged his cheeks and he shook his head to hide the faintly nervous laugh that rose in his throat. Shishi seemed pleased...but that didn't make sense to him in the current mindset. A soft sip of that tea was taken, followed by a moment of merely savoring the taste before he could find the words to voice again. "No...Jin.. well he joked sometimes...but no, we haven't. With him gone so much...and with my not being the most extroverted...it's just been easier to keep to myself."
Shishi delicately lifted his own glass and took a sip of the hot liquid, his eyes focused inwards, contemplating. As he set his glass down, he returned his gaze to Touya. "You know, the rest of us here have all gotten to know each other fairly well, perhaps too well," he grimaced slightly, "But we know little about you."
Touya's lips, perhaps lifted a little in a smile at that last remark and he nodded. Sipping his tea once more, the cup was set down as he looked up at Shishi with those sky blue, opaque eyes. "I'm sure most of them have no interest in my life or quirks."
"Well, I'm interested in your life and quirks, if you'd care to share. I'm rather tired of listening to Jin and Suzuki prattle on, Chuu slur and Rinku discuss video games. You're quieter, more sane. So I want to hear from you now, because I suspect it won't give me a headache."
The ice demon had to smirk at the accurate comparisons of their teammates, and even laughed quietly. "I'm not the most interesting of people, Shishi...but if there is anything you want to know..." he hesitated for a moment before plunging forward. What the hell.. it wasn't like he didn't need someone to talk to. "I will be...happy to speak with you..." he finished, almost shyly.
Shishi sat up straight, clearly pleased with this answer. "Well, fine. But do feel free to ask me questions as well. I'm not exactly shy about talking about myself, as you've probably guessed." He had the decency to blush faintly. "How old are you, anyway? I can't tell."
"I wouldn't mind learning about you, Shishi..." He looked startled at this question, and actually flushed once more himself. "I...don't know exactly...I was separated from my family at a young age...hell...sometimes time seemed to pass like years, and months would seem like days...other times it seemed as it a decade was a century. Perhaps about...200...?"
"That young?" Shishi looked impressed. "That young, and with such a reputation. I confess, I'm jealous. Very, very jealous." He laughed faintly, self-deprecatingly. "I'm exactly 167 years old, and three months."
He couldn't help but give a smile at Shishi's confessions of jealous, and his eyes widened to find he was younger than Touya. "You're...not much younger than me at all..." he said in wonder.
"Not much younger, no. Does that surprise you so much? I'm still very young for a demon, who can live hundreds of years- as you are as well, yes? I just.. had hoped to make a name for myself by this age." He shook his head sadly.
"Yes...I'm still very young. .I guess...and you...are as well.." was the shy comment. At that sad look he frowned, leaning closer. "Hey...you...will make a name for yourself...there's no need to let it depress you..."
Shishi shrugged. "Yes, well. We shall just have to see, won't we?" He glanced up at Touya then, trying to pretend he wasn't bothered at all. "What is your goal, for your life?" his eyes seemed to immediately cloud. "I...want to find the light..." he said, hesitantly, as if somehow afraid of exposing his dream to the Samurai. It was so precious to him...it was all he had...now that Jin was gone...
Shishi regarded him for a long moment. "I'm afraid we simply don't know each other well enough yet to really get into that, do we?" he said softly. "I can hear you, but unless I know you better, I won't really be able to understand."
He smiled somewhat wistfully. "It's...just what it means...Jin and I...we spent so much time in the Shinobi Sect with Reisho...we were in the darkness...and when we arrived at that Tournament...and saw the difference in the sky...and the way the sun gleamed...Jin and I...we wanted it.. the warmth...the light...the freedom..." he revealed after a moment, surprised at how much he had revealed in that simple few sentences. "I'm sorry. .I know it's silly...and confusing..." he said quickly
Shishi cocked his head. "Not really. I rather understand you, though I suspect the light you seek and the light I seek are rather different. I want my name to be known throughout the Makai, everywhere. I want to famous and achieve my destiny, my own light."
he certainly could...he's handsome enough... he found himself thinking absently, and had to blink at where his own thoughts were taking him. Diverting his thoughts to the Shishi sitting before him though he smiled. "I...actually think you'll make it...you've got talent...and charisma..."
"And perfect hair," Shishi agreed, as if such compliments were his due. He coughed slightly, however, growing slightly uncomfortable with his own ego in the face of the quiet Ice Master. His eyes took on a mischievous look then. "So... if you and Jin aren't lovers, how long has it been since you've shared a bed with someone?"
He...was enjoying the other's ego, and waved it off as he reached for the cup once more. "Your hair is beautiful, Shishi." he only half joked. So intent on his tea was he...he failed to notice that mischievous gleam and coughed in response instead of answering. "I...a while..." he said with a wary smirk
Shish leaned forward, resting his elbows on the table and his chin on his hands. "Oh, really? I confess, I'm surprised. A pretty demon like you must have more offers than he knows what to do with." His lips twisted faintly into a smirk. "And you said Jin was joking... perhaps he wasn't joking as much as you thought?"
He snorted, setting his tea down. Certainly he was no virgin. Being a member of the Shinobi as he was...he would find quick release in the arms of a prostitute if they were all going. It would have been worse if he hadn't, and being mocked was one thing he abhorred. Still...Shishi's licentious smile caused his eyes to narrow thoughtfully, shaking his head. "No...most wouldn't want..." he caught himself, smirking "I...am sure that there was some truth behind it...but Jin never pressed..."
"Then he was a fool," Shishi replied, his eyelids lowering slightly, to allow Touya to see exactly how much he meant it. "To have not taken advantage of having you all to himself, all this time."
"Wh...what?" he asked, those lovely cerulean eyes widening a little at the baldly stated words...and that veiled...yet clear look in his eyes. He felt his lips parting a bare fraction, using his tongue to moisten them as he stared up at Shishi.
Shishi smirked and then leaned back. "It was just a thought, an observation. If I were the one that had spent so much time with you over so many years, I would have made sure you knew I wasn't just joking. But you look surprised."
He shrugged his shoulders lightly, licking his lips once more as he gazed up at the other. "Not really...there were many others...Jin had his pick of them...and when I needed release...I could find it..." the way he said it. Release. That's all it was, and a way to end the taunting from the others.
"Jin found others when he could have had you." Shishi shook his head slightly. "I knew he was an idiot." He laughed softly. "I'm sorry, I'm probably coming on a bit stronger than you're used to, but... well, I've never been one to wait patiently if there's something I want right in front of me."
Confusion leant it's way into his gaze for a moment as he looked at Shishi, recognition hinting in his eyes. "You mean...?" he trailed off, hardly able to believe, dare to dream. It was too cruel to consider.
"Well, Jin was clearly a fool, but I'm not. I've made my mistakes, but I'm not blind. You're beautiful, Touya, and if you'd be willing to join me... I'd like to invite you to my bed," Shishi murmured, one hand reaching out to gently brush against Touya's
He felt that warm hand brushing against his own and stared down at it a moment, as if truly indecisive. But then he looked up into those beautiful violet eyes and felt his lips parting in expectation, and he nodded slowly, almost hesitantly. He didn't understand it...but he wanted it all the same...
Shishi's smile was brilliant and charming, exactly the smile that had caused so many fan girls to faint when it was turned on them. "Perhaps we should go now, Touya, while the others are still out...?"
He now knew why so many fan girls loved Shishi's smile...it was breathtaking. And the way he spoke caused a shiver to slip up his spine. Standing slowly, he nodded, offering his own smile, deciding to just go along with the beautiful samurai.
Leaving the tea to grow cold, Shishi led Touya to his own room. Upon stepping in, he glanced briefly at the wall between his room and Suzuki's, making sure the other wasn't around. Then he turned and faced Touya, closing the door behind the other.
Touya looked at the door as it closed, sensing a sort of finality. How short he felt around everyone else here...except Rinku of course. Stepping out of the way, he looked to Shishi, wondering exactly what he would do. He had a feeling this wouldn't be like any of his other experiences
The door closed, Shishi approached Touya, reaching out and placing his hands on either side of Touya's neck, causing the other to look up at him. His touch was gentle, even as his fingertips ghosted delicately, teasingly, over the skin. "When you said 'a while', how long did you mean? How long has it been since you've been touched like this?"
The way Shishi was touching him, lightly waltzing his fingers over the tender flesh of his neck...few did that, took that attention to detail. "A...few...years." he offered quietly, tilting his neck, offering it to Shishi as he stared up at those amethyst orbs, trying not to shudder with pleasure at even that simple caress.
"A few years? Such a shame. And when was the last time someone really took the time to make sure you enjoyed yourself?" No, Shishi was no fool. He could see what just a light, breezy touch was doing to the other, and what it meant.
"I don't...remember..." he murmured, his face lighting a soft red as he gazed up at the other through glassy blue eyes, enjoying that simple touch. His own hands ghosted forward, stroking their way to his chest, bypassing the neckline of his haori, just wanting to feel his flesh, make sure this was real.
Shishi made a soft, pleased murmur as Touya touched him, tilting that flushed face up and leaning down so that his lips were so close that they lightly brushed Touya's own as he spoke, "Then I'll have to give you a new memory you will not forget."
Lips parted in expectation, and he couldn't suppress the shudder that danced through his lithe frame. ." I would like that...Shishi..." Boldly, he nodded, moving closer, pressing himself against the other, moving to claim his lips in a kiss. Shishi's scent, his taste...that little he had gotten with that near kiss...it was intoxicating, and he craved it. "I think..
Shishi was more than happy to indulge Touya, and kissed him softly, enough to let the Ice Demon know he wasn't just toying with him, but lightly enough to tell him that this was just the beginning, and that Shishi was a master at the dance they were just starting into...
Touya had never claimed to know more than the rudiments and perhaps a few interesting tricks about cool air...but with that kiss, that gentle embrace he pressed himself into, he pledged it to Shishi. He would do his best to please him as much as he was sure he was going to be pleased. The dance was just beginning...and already Touya felt that it would be...intense, interesting...intoxicating...
One hand slid around to cup the back of Touya's head, holding the Ice Master in to the kiss, while the other slid down his back to rest at the small of it, briefly, before those long, elegant fingers slid up under the material of Touya's flimsy shirt to stroke the skin of his back.
He arched at the nimble fingers that were waltzing over his back so slowly, his own hands slowly fanning out to span Shishi's leanly muscled torso. He didn't want to break that delicious kiss, merely letting himself be guided, hands slowly rubbing that pale expanse of his chest, glassy eyes falling closed
Shishi deepened the kiss, probing at the others lips with his tongue, as the hand under Touya's shirt slid around to explore the planes and ridges of the others abdomen and lower torso, working their nimble way upwards.
Lips parted to that warm tongue, capturing it playfully between his own lips. While Shishi's hands were exploring their way upwards, he himself allowed his hands to drift lower, slowly tracing over Shishi's abdomen, resting just at his waist as he opened hazed eyes, staring up at the other with that veiled lust
Shishi withdrew only slightly, his eyes hazy and his face slightly flushed. "Perhaps we should get some of this fabric... out of the way," he suggested, voice low and soft, a sensual caress. Withdrawing his hands to grasp the hem of Touya's shirt, he tugged it gently upwards, to pull it off of the shorter demon.
He let his arms drift away and up, so that the shirt was easily removed from his torso...now...he bit his lip gently and pulled at Shishi's own covering with the softest of smirks. "Yourself as well..." he said after a moment, lightly grasping the fabric and gently moving to pull it up and free from Shishi's body.
Shishi smiled and slid his arms free, helping the Shinobi to remove his shirt. "Of course. I'm not one to play such games unfairly," he murmured, reaching out to pull Touya into his arms, against his bare chest as soon as his haori landed on the floor, pressing his lips to Touya's neck.
The softest of gasps left the Shinobi's lips as he felt those warm lips trailing over his throat. Touya was afire...odd for an ice demon, and delighted in the feeling of his flesh flush against Shishi, arms drifting upwards to lace about his neck, urging him on with soft words before pressing his own lips to the other's shoulder.
"Mmm..." Shishi murmured, pleased that the other was clearly no longer shy and holding back with him. Rubbing up Touya's back, he pulled the other so tightly against him there was barely room to breath, even as his hands slid down to the waistband of the others pants, several long fingers darting under the fabric.
Another surprised gasp left his lips at the contact of those fingers against more sensitive flesh, nipping a little harder at that smooth, pale flesh with his teeth. Gripping closer, he tried to press himself closer, nuzzling him intently, wanting more contact, more affection...anything.
Shishi was more than happy to oblige him in his need, for his own eagerness was at least equal to the Ice Master's. Reaching up to capture his lips again, Shishi slid those loose pants down over Touya's hips, sending them towards the floor.
And the ice Shinobi moaned softly into that kiss as those pants pooled on the ground at his feet. His breathing was already growing a little labored, not used to such...exquisite softness and care. His own hands slid down, working at the traditional pants the samurai was wearing, almost pouting up at him.
Shishi chuckled low in his throat, a sensual sound, and withdrew his hands from Touya's flesh to untie the trousers, allowing them to join Touya's pants on the floor, before his arms were around Touya again.
Touya shivered at the sensual chuckle, and the moment those arms were about him he looked up at him with those glassy eyes, so filled with...longing. Hands ghosted over the Samurai's pale shoulders, lips parted lightly as if he were about to speak. But no sound issued forth, and instead he leaned up, capturing his taller companion's lips hungrily as he arched against him.
Shishi returned the kiss, stepping backwards towards his futon spread on the floor, pulling the other with him as he slowly lowered himself to the floor to begin the next step of their dance.
Touya followed him willingly, nestling closer to the beautiful demon, staring down at him with that revert look of awe...Shishi was so beautiful...and all they'd done...and were doing...he could hardly believe it...but the dance would continue...neither willing to let it end so prematurely.
Shishi lay contentedly on his futon, an arm firmly around Touya's pale shoulders, holding the smaller demon to him, His hand gently stroked his skin, as his cheek rested against the top of his head. "Mm... Truly, Jin missed out."
Touya was curled up at his side, nuzzling now and then at his shoulder. The arm curled so lightly about his shoulder seemed an omen, and he was glad for it's presence, it's warmth. Shishi's words drew a soft chuckle from him, shaking his head as he pushed his face against that flesh with a soft contented sigh. "Mmmm..."
Shishi pressed a kiss, and then another on the top of Touya's head. "You said it had been a while," he murmured into the hair. "I don't believe it."
Touya chuckled gently, turning just enough to where he could wrap an arm over the other's chest, stroking the pale flesh absently, still awestruck. "It was the truth..."
"Can't be. You didn't act rusty. At all." Shishi chuckled in turn. "Mmm... that was lovely. Truly lovely, Touya."
Touya felt the gentle flush slip over his cheeks once more and merely nuzzled at his lover's shoulder, silently wondering if this were just the one occurrence...or if more would follow, perhaps? "It was amazing..."
"Yet, it was. We'll have to do this more often," Shishi answered, providing the reply to Touya's unasked question. "As soon as we find both time and energy!"
"Yeah...I don't think I'm moving for awhile..." he was altogether too comfortable. Though he had to laugh at that, turning so that he could see his lover's face, smirking lightly. "You're so beautiful..."
"And you don't think highly enough of yourself," was the reply, as Shishi's free hand- the one not caressing and holding Touya- reached up to gently poke the Ice Master's nose in a surprisingly playful gesture.
His eyes crossed when his nose was poked, but he managed a grin, nipping at Shishi's finger in his own...playful.. manner. "I try..."
Shishi laughed aloud at the adorable expression on Touya's face when his eyes had crossed. Leaning forward, he kissed his forehead in utter abandoned adoration. "I'm keeping you," he teased.
The look that entered his eyes was so soft. .eyes half closed and he leaned closer, nipping at his lover's chin once more in that near reverent manner. "Maybe I'm...keeping you..." he replied with a chuckle, flicking his bangs from his eyes.
"I certainly couldn't argue with that. Why would I want to?" Shishi was clearly content, more so than he had actually expected he would be. However, he tensed when he heard the sounds of someone entering the next room over- Suzuki's room.
Touya ignored the noise at first, nipping absently at Shishi's shoulder, but the noises continued and he looked up, eyes flashing with annoyance...then realization. He didn't move, glancing to Shishi uncertainly. Was the other afraid of a confrontation...?
Shishi swallowed hard, pulling slightly away from Touya, yet not letting go of him completely. He instead turned his head, burying his face in the pillow.
"Shishi..." he whispered, pressing against him even as the other was pulling away. He was confused now...Shishi seemed afraid of upsetting Suzuki...or...ashamed of admitting he had been with him? He pushed that thought away immediately though, concerned with...with his friend...lover...
The samurai pulled his head free, leaning up to kiss Touya fiercely. "Ignore him. He's a fool, and he doesn't matter," though it was hard to tell if it was Touya or himself that he was speaking to.
Eyes widened at the forceful kiss, that soon had him melting against the other, nodding meekly to his words. As long as Suzuki failed to notice them, or try and explore, all would be well.
Before things could go any further, the noises stopped in the next room, a door slid open and then closed. and then there was a knock at Shishi's door. Shishi jerked away from Touya and sat up, staring at the door.
Touya flew back a few feet as well, glancing to Shishi. He could sense the other's tenseness, eyes asking if he should stay or leave silently. He didn't want to leave...didn't want to see Shishi this upset...
Shishi gestured for him to stay, standing and striding quietly across his room to grab a yukata, which he pulled on. Pausing by the bed, he kissed Touya again briefly he headed to the door, opened it a sliver and slid out into the hallway.
He scowled lightly at the gesture, not wanting the other to be alone...especially after he had been hit once...sighing softly he moved to collect his own clothing, sliding the pants back on and moving close to the door, listening silently.
Suzuki was clearly edgy, Shishi no less angry. Suzuki had realized Touya was missing and had a pretty good idea of where he was...but Shishi pointed out that it was none of Suzuki's damn business what he did, or who he did it with. After a long, tense, angry, jealous and hurt silence, Suzuki stormed off and Shishi leaned against the wall, eyes closed, and sighed.
He let a few moments pass, then slipped his shirt on, moving into the hallway, peering out at Shishi. Without explaining or saying a word he wrapped his arms about him, gazing up at him in silent contemplation.
Shishi smiled, all memories of his irritation with Suzuki gone when Touya slid his arms around him. He was more than happy to pull the other into his arms, kissing his cheek.
He pushed against the Samurai like a kitten starved for affection, nuzzling at his chest gently, just...letting him know that he was there. "Are you all right..?" he asked at last.
"I'm a bit irritated that he thinks he owns me," Shishi replied, "But it's only to be expected that he be obsessed with me after spending a night... or two... in my bed."
He nodded slowly, eyes narrowing at the possessive actions of the other...not that...now that he had spent time with the elegant samurai...he didn't understand his reasoning...
"He'll get over it," he whispered softly. "He has no right to control me, and he'll just have to get used to that idea. I like you better anyway."
"Let me know next time..." he offered as he arched against the other, tightening his grip ever so slightly. Staring into those amethyst pools had a heady effect on the ice demon...he couldn't look away...
"Sorry if I worried you, Touya. I merely... feel a bit guilty with Suzuki. I cared for him, for a time. Just not the way he wanted."
Touya nodded slowly, not quite understanding and yet knowing enough to piece the rest together. Still.. he refused to let it plague him...as long as Suzuki learned t o control his temper, they would all be well again
Shishi stroked Touya's back softly, pressing his cheek against the top of Touya's head. "What do you think Jin will think of this?"
"I'm sure if Jin ever comes back...he'll be fine...bet he's found someone himself..." he offered after a moment, leaning against the other comfortably, enjoying the closeness. "I don't think he'd' be angry, if that's what you're worried about..."
"I don't care if he's angry, but since you two are so close I thought you might care if he did get upset." He glanced over his shoulder at his open door. "Shall we go back to bed?"
"I don't think he will be too upset..." he mumbled, but...those eyes brightened at the prospect of returning to bed. He tread after him quite happily, slipping through that open door.
Shishi shed his yukata, sliding into the bed and opening his arms, reaching out towards Touya.
Removing his own clothing just as easily, Touya slid into his lover's arms, nuzzling at his neck happily
"You really have been neglected, haven't you?" Shishi murmured, kissing one of Touya's perfect ears.
"I don't know what you're talking about." was the cool reply, though that kiss to his ears had him shuddering with pleasure. Hands splayed out, exploring his chest and stomach once more
Shishi chuckled. "Eager for another round already? My my... I do like when my lovers are so... enthusiastic."
A smirk as he nipped at Shishi's nose playfully. "It's not often...I've had someone so beautiful want me." he retorted, pressing closer
"And follow up with the teasing, right?" He laughed softly. "But no, you're right. I'm far more beautiful than anyone else you've ever met."
"And arrogant." he snorted, though his smile was genuine as he looked down at the other
Shishi shrugged slightly, winking impishly. "Mine," was all he said, grasping the back of Touya's head and pulling him down for a kiss.
"Mmm!" Caught off guard, Touya could only press closer, eyes slowly falling closed with pleasure at his lovers artful actions.
Shishi woke and smiled faintly when he felt the body next to him. It wasn't unusual for him to wake up with someone else in his bed, and it was always pleasant. It was made even more pleasant by the fact that he didn't have to wonder for even a moment who it was he had seduced this time- the memory instantly asserted itself: Touya. Stretching rather inelegantly, he reached out, holding the other, and nuzzled his neck.
His light sleeping was gently pressed by the other's movements, and when he felt the softness against him, that nuzzling sensation, he turned over slowly to look at Shishi, capturing his lips in a soft, gentle kiss.
Shishi kissed back, then pulled away and sat up. Stretching yet again, his arms over his head, he glared at the sunlight creeping across the floor. "We need to get up and get back to training," he muttered. "Though I'd much rather stay here with you..."
He made a face and sat up, stretching himself out like a contented kitten before sitting up. His normally tightly constrained hair fell about his eyes in several stray locks and he snorted, smoothing them back. "Guess you're right..."
Shishi cocked his head, watching him. "Leave your hair down today, if you can," he suggested. "It looks good. You look so severe usually, this is a nice change." Standing, he wandered to his clothing and began getting dressed for the day, however, slowly, taunting Touya in his own way.
He shook his head, but left his hair free, turning to watch the beautiful Samurai as he dressed himself. A soft groan as he tried not to watch. "Stop torturing me..."
Shishi gave him an impish grin. "But I want to be sure you come here immediately after training and don't dally. How else am I supposed to do that?"
"Just ask...I'll be here." he said with another groan, tearing his eyes away as he stood, reaching for his own pants with no fear of his form
Shishi interrupted him, grabbing him and kissing him fiercely but quickly, before releasing him. "Until then, lover." Then he was out the door and heading off to his favorite spot to meditate before training in the morning.
He let the faintest of smiles play on his lips before he slid his shirt back on and headed for his own spot, a normally private section of the garden, where ice attacks would have little bearing with the rest of the nearby area.
Touya hadn't gotten far before a playful breeze wafted through his loose hair and the Wind Master landed in front of him. "Touya! Ya never wear your hair down. What's the occasion?"
"Jin!" he actually smiled for the Wind Master, stopping to look at him. "You're back again, huh?" he chuckled softly, enjoying the lilting breeze playing around him
Jin stepped forward, grabbing Touya and hugging him fiercely. "Yeah, well, ya know. I get lost, following one breeze then another... So, ya never did answer my question."
He returned the hug, yelping at how the Wind Master almost always seemed to lift him clear off the ground. He staggered away, taking several deep breaths, then turned to look at the other curiously. "Question...?"
"Why's yer hair down?" Jin persisted, fingering the soft strands. His eyes grew softer. "I must say, ya look good like this. Wish ya'd wear it down more often."
He felt his face flushing at the soft touches to his hair and the...gentle look that had entered his best friend's eyes. "I slept in a little...and I figured I could let it go...once."
"Once!" Jin chuckled. "And ya slept in! You've sure changed since I saw ya last! What happened in the last few days to make ya sleep in and let your hair down?"
"Nothing important!" he said with a laugh, moving to walk at his friend's side, heading for his favorite place for training. "So...how long are you back for?"
"Oh, until another breeze asks me to go play!" Jin replied, laughing. "I just love it 'ere, don't you? It's so much more beautiful than the Makai." He glanced at Touya then. "Course, I'd rather be in the Makai, if that's where you were..."
Was it because of Shishi's affections...or was he now becoming a little more.. sensitive to remarks that had previously passed over his head? He said nothing about those softer thoughts, glancing upwards. "The sun is beautiful here, Jin...and the wind.." he added with a faint grin.
Jin grinned back. "Aye! Especially the wind!" He paused and looked at Touya searchingly. "Say, Touya... I know ya've always turned me down before, but maybe since today is different... Would you be willing to maybe.. share my bed tonight?"
He stiffened suddenly, glancing down, smiling faintly for a moment in bittersweet irony before looking up...up at his tall friend. "Jin...I'm sorry..."
Hurt flashed across those wide eyes, before the Wind Master laughed and waved a dismissive hand. "Oh, it's okay. You've always said no before too! Besides, I was just kiddin', ya know?"
He actually caught the hurt in those large blue eyes and stepped forward, shaking his head. He didn't want to hurt the Wind Master...but Shishi...but then again Jin had left him alone so many times...when he had needed or wanted him nearby... "No...hard feelings...?"
Jin blinked. surprised that Touya was pushing it when he usually was the first to let it drop. "No, a' course not! You're still my Touya, right?"
He smiled to him, nodding lightly, letting the subject drop there. "Come on Jin...I need to start training or Genkai's going to throw a fit...you're probably in for it for being gone."
The Wind Master shrugged. "Nah- I was trainin the whole time- just not under her supervision! Say, I gotta ask, while I was gone, did Shishi kill anyone, or did he finally give in and shag Suzuki?" He grinned and winked. "I swear, the air between them- ya coulda cut it with a knife!"
He blinked in surprise and tried to will his skin cool enough to keep a blush from forming. "N..no. Shishi and Suzuki have mostly avoided one another..." he aid after a moment
"Really? Go figure... I wonder who keeps turnin who down then. Well, I suspect I'll never know. I'm not too good at that sorta thing, as you well know! So, care to train with me today, Touya? I could use a land bound opponent to, you know, get grounded again!"
"Sure thing, Jin!" he said, grateful for the sudden subject change. The air cooled around them as he lead his friend off to where they could train in safety
Very happy to be alive, Shishi settled himself on his favorite grassy spot, arranging himself comfortably. Taking one last look at the world around him, he closed his eyes and schooled his breathing.
His calm world was soon to be shattered as faint footsteps tread through the grass, stopping before him. Suzuki looked down at Shishi, arms crossed, an unreadable expression on his normally...alive face.
Sensing the light changing around him, Shishi sighed inwardly and opened his eyes, only to frown at the sight before him. "Didn't we already have a talk last night? Why are you harassing me again?"
"I want to know why." he replied, eyes narrowed ever so faintly as he looked to the lovely creature before him, arms still crossed. "You never said why..."