Lust and greed are more

gullible than innocence.

– Mason Cooley

Chapter 4: Hunger

Night came with her usual fanfare: winter bird sang; frost growing on the most resilient grass blades; bare trees bemoaning their nakedness. Everything in Gandara was cold, dead–

I shivered, burrowing deeper into the blankets. A single iris bloomed near the balcony door for me, stubborn violet petals offering a sweet song. The fireplace popped at the other end of the room, proud flames long-since reduced to solemn embers:

A week had come and gone, and still Hiei did not emerge from his chambers.

My heart twisted at the memory of his tears, angry ink marring his right arm. The dragon sought me in my dreams, red eyes gleaming and giving chase, jaws open in ravenous hunger–

Each time I woke up screaming.

Still, he did not come.

The moon rose higher, uncaring that sleep eluded me. Soon enough, midnight struck, marked poignantly by a bell in town. I brought my knees to my chest, fingers moved beneath the bed clothes to form tents of varying shapes and sizes. Father would return from surveying the kingdom in two days – a courier brought the news at breakfast. Of course, the news excited me, yet for the first time I felt trepidation at his return. Surely, Kaito would tell him what I'd done – what I forced Hiei to do – and what transpired in the library:

The thought of losing father's smile made me nauseous.

A sound at the door and I froze, eyes fixed on the iris in the corner. The trees continued to groan but I could not understand them – father said only kings could know their words.

My mind raced even as I tried to halt the progression, begging logic to override all else. It could be Hiei at the door. No, the step was too heavy–

That of a grown man.

Still, I tried to convince myself even as the door opened; my back remained towards the hall joining my bedchamber to the sitting room. For some reason, my body refused to turn.

Surely, it was a member of the guard checking in; Asato, Yana, Kaito . . . even Suzaku, coming to set things aright, to say the dragon was a joke and disappeared days ago. The iris fell silent as the steps neared, only the shifting of cloth and the occasional creak of wood marking their movement.

My heart throbbed in my throat as the steps stopped near the head of the bed. For the briefest moment, I helplessly hoped to feel father's hand brush my hair.

Such thoughts shattered when the iris screamed.

I threw myself at the wall without hesitation, pressing my back against the wall. A well-made dagger lay where my head rested moments before, blade plunged deep into the pillows. My eyes quickly shifted from the weapon, staring up. The man in black before me was not father or Kaito nor anyone I knew: fabric covered every inch of his body save his eyes, which stared at me without feeling. A strong build, shrouded in shadow and dark clothing:

This wasn't anyone I knew.

"Help!" I screamed, ducking away as he reached for me. He cursed as I threw random objects at him – books, paperweights, a container full of quill pens – retreating all the while. "Guard! Guard!"

Only then did I remember the hour. Midnight marked the changing of the guard, a five minute window which left every corridor virtually unprotected:

No one was here to hear me.

"Help!" Desperation raised my voice's pitch as I threw one last book, hitting the intruder in the face before turning for the hall. If I could escape my chambers, someone would come; my cries would carry in the corridors:

Someone would come.

A piercing pain at my scalp and I yelped, fighting the hand latched onto my hair. With little effort, the intruder threw me back into the room, breath fleeing as my back hit the floor. Suddenly, mammoth fingers wrapped around my throat even as his knees cinched my hips, ensuring his own protection. I clawed at those hands – the only part of him I could reach – even as my lungs burned, eyes watering with effort.

The man simply applied more pressure, fully blocking my windpipe while watching me with those cold, dead eyes. Flesh and blood accumulated beneath my fingernails as I fought, yet he seemed not to notice:

Pain was of no consequence to him.

"Sleep, my prince." He said, deep voice soft, almost caring. "This will be much easier if you sleep."

A strangled cry left my mouth as he squeezed, fear and anger running side-by-side. This was one of father's citizens – his title for me attested as much. His tone did not match the ever-tightening grip around my throat, the bottomless eyes filling my vision. One of my own people was killing me and I could do nothing to stop it–

The thought of dying terrified me more than anything else.

Then, just as black began to color my world, the man stiffened and a wet sound filled the air. He made to turn but the sound repeated itself in rapid succession, reverberating through the room much like a sponge repeatedly relieved of water.

Finally, the man's grip loosened, a gurgle spilling from his lips as he fell atop me. I tried to take a breath but his weight threatened to crush me and fear overrode all else.

All at once, his bulk disappeared and I sucked in a greedy gasp, eyes closing at the pain engulfing my lungs. My throat ached – each breath physically hurt – and my mind demanded I rise. Surely, the man would come at any moment, ready to finish his work, yet no strength remained in my body. I couldn't move, I couldn't think. I–

"Kurama?"

My eyes shot open at the downy voice and my body moved on its own, setting me upright. Hiei knelt at my side, eyes wide as he stared openly at the bruises marring my neck. He wore the same black as always but this was a comforting black – I could feel the wool between my fingertips. Specks of red dotted his face; hot blood covered his hands, one of which held a dripping blade:

The same dagger from before.

"Don't look." He hissed as my head turned but I didn't listen. The intruder lay before the balcony entrance, bathed in cold moonlight. His clothes now bore several slits in the back – too many to count – his scalp sported multiple puncture wounds, each leaking red. Steely eyes stared back at me, though I saw nothing which proclaimed he retained breath; both hands remained poised in their final action, curled to the shape of my throat–

Bile rose unbidden and I became sick all over Hiei's boots.

To his credit, he did not recoil from the action, showed no disgust. Throat burning with the last traces of supper, my breath hitched and I clung to him, sobbing into his shoulder. Hiei stiffened at the touch and though he offered no words of comfort, he did not push me away.

Soon enough, the fresh guard – Yana – heard my keening and rushed in, weapon in hand. What he saw stopped him in his tracks: two boys crouched in a pile of vomit, one weeping uncontrollably, the other covered in blood. Upon seeing the corpse, horror lit his eyes and he leapt into action, stepping closer to us. "Your Highness, are you alright?"

When he was within two paces, Hiei tightened his grip on the dagger before lifting his arm, blade pointed at Yana. A second later, his hand found mine, gripping with an intensity only young boys possess. I saw him bare his teeth in a snarl through water-logged vision, minuscule muscles tense, ready to fight.

The knight stopped, lips pressed together in a grim line, though he did not raise his weapon in-turn. "Lord Kurama, answer me."

"Yes." I barely recognized my own voice, a fragile, wheezing thing. Hiei's cloak slipped between my fingers as he shifted, placing himself directly between Yana and I. He never relinquished his hold on my hand. "Hiei came."

Both started at this, though Hiei never once lowered his blade. Fresh tears stung my eyes, tortured my throat but Yana had to know. "I screamed and no one came; I was afraid he'd kill me . . ." I shuddered, struggling to meet the knight's gaze. "But Hiei came."

Yana swallowed, looking from Hiei's bared arm to my throat before settling on the dead man behind us. The knight made to move forward but he growled, the sound vibrating through his back into my chest.

The knight's eyes darkened with understanding and he straightened, visibly loosening his grip on his sword. "Lord Kurama must be examined: if he is hurt, we must care for him, protect him." Finally, he allowed his hand to fall to his side, pale against his leather armor. "That is our duty to the crown prince."

It took a moment for me to realize he was speaking to Hiei. Still, my companion appeared deaf to his words; shoulders bunched, feet pulled into a low crouch, ready to spring at any moment. Another growl sounded, lower than the last, barely audible in my ears.

Yana, no doubt, heard the warning. "He is our treasure." He pressed, face and voice calm despite the tension radiating from his body. "We will do anything to keep him safe."

Finally, after what seemed an eternity, Hiei lowered the blade, growl dying in his throat.

Yana immediately took me to the infirmary, though my companion naturally accompanied us; he never once let go of my hand. Hiei kept vigil by my bed that night: crouched against the wall, dagger at the ready, though to this day I do not know why they allowed him to keep the weapon.

Father came home the next day, spurned by news the flowers gave of the assassination attempt. His affection for me knew no bounds, though he surprised me by praising Hiei as well. Father gifted him with two silver-handled swords – treasures of our kingdom, my grandfather's blades – and ordered he be taught to wield them.

Several weeks passed before Hiei allowed me to sleep alone again.

Hyouga.

A land trapped in eternal winter, the nucleus of my boyhood fantasies.

Hyouga.

Astute matriarchy of the north, ally to both Gandara and Tourin.

Finally, they'd come out of hiding.

Dim echoes of Yusuke's party reached my ears as the door closed, effectively isolating the cozy chamber from the rest of court. Father took his place at the round oak table, horns of the gold-coated chair stretching above the heads of all present. Yusuke sat to his left, still sluggish with drink yet sobering by the second; I settled to his right, plush cushions sighing as we both rested our full weight against them. Hokushin stood at my cousin's shoulder, the very image of calm despite the staff held resolutely in one hand. Finally, Hiei leaned against the breathing wall at my back, body to moving with the trees, arms crossed loosely over his chest. The air hummed with warmth; stifling, despite the moss clinging to select pieces of bark. All eyes remained set on our guests:

Father's smile grew harder with each whisper of wood.

The woman kept her eyes fixed on our King, lips an impenetrable line. Her face reminded me inescapably of an ice sculpture, each contour firm and unrelenting beneath porcelain skin. Robes of purest blue hugged her petite frame, fine silk accenting aquamarine hair which spilled from high atop her head, thick locks held in place by an ornate clip embellished with diamonds. Petite even for a woman, she was only an inch or so taller than Hiei and appeared harmless, hands clasped against her stomach. A delicate face; rose-petal irises flickered to each of us in turn, though each thought slid carefully beneath their depths.

Dark wings graced the shoulders of the man behind her; monstrous, feathered things nearly twice the size of his body. Appendages tucked close to a slender torso, he loomed over all present – the crest of father's head reached only his shoulder. Deceptively thin arms filled a black tunic lined with fox fur, garment split at the front to reveal a pale chest; lacquered muscle tight, impenetrable, yet shifting with each breath. Long legs bled from beneath that tunic, midnight wool flowing seamlessly into knee-length boots which made no sound when he walked. Slim hands encased in his pockets, he observed all with eyes of slate, ghostly skin made otherworldly by raven hair creeping down his calves. A metal mask covered the bottom portion of his face, each side allotted several slits. Finally, twin razor scars crowned the leather strip at his throat, both positioned just over the larynx.

Though this could have been my imagination, those eyes seemed to spark whenever they landed upon me.

After several moments passed, father's warm voice filled the chamber. "Would you care for refreshment? Surely, you must be exhausted from your journey."

"No. Thank you." Her voice was surprisingly soft, pleasantries powdered snow falling from her lips. Only then did I perceive the state of her companion's clothes. Each garment clung to his skin with abandon, much like a blanket stuck to a frothing horse after hours of running. However, the man showed no signs of fatigue, and the woman did not have a single hair out of place. "This is an urgent matter, Lord Yomi."

"So it seems." Father replied coolly, eloquent fingers running across the thick parchment set with Hyouga's royal seal – a letter he made no move to open. Brows furrowing ever so slightly at a moan of bark, he turned to the winged man, contemplating whatever the trees said. Fortified gray stared resolutely at father's chin, refusing to meet the king's sightless gaze – a sure sign of good breeding.

Finally, father shifted his attention back to the woman, who possessed every bearing of nobility. "Tell us: who are you and what has brought you so far from home?"

The woman immediately dipped into a shallow curtsy, limbs moving with effortless grace. Her companion dropped to one knee, silken hair pooling about his feet. He maintained this stance after she rose; his eyes never left her, though his face remained tilted downward.

"Lord Yomi."

Tension at my back and the temperature rose once again. Yusuke's eyes widened, as taken aback as I at her simplistic term for a king; Hokushin watched on in silence, face decidedly blank. "I am Rui, sister of Queen Hina – Master of Ice, Lady of the North." Sweat formed at my brow, ran beneath my clothes in small streams; a soft sound not unlike a hiss slithered into one ear. Our guest gave no inclination of these changes, delicate fingers motioning to the still-kneeling man. "This is Karasu."

He did not react to his name on her tongue, watching the tiny hand return to the safe folds of her robes. Karasu. Spoken so casually, as though a simple introduction were enough to explain his presence. The leather hugging his neck; black wings held abnormally still at either shoulder, bent for flight yet held in place by her word:

His very name sounded like a curse.

"In the name of the Queen, we come seeking your aide."

Rui's crystalline voice garnered my attention immediately. Both bowed their heads towards father, radiating a surprising air of humility. Yusuke and I glanced at one another across the table, his cheeks still tinged with drink. Hokushin kept his eyes focused on Rui, staff held in a deceptively lax grip; I could not see Hiei to gauge his reaction.

Father, as always, betrayed nothing. Smile relaxing to almost a straight line, he tilted his head as if studying the two, dark hair slipping over either shoulder. "How can we help her Majesty? Surely, you have other allies who can–"

"Our princess is missing."

Suddenly, all thought of heat fell away and damp cool overtook the chamber. Yusuke expelled a slow breath from puffed cheeks whereas Hokushin's gaze sharpened further, traveling between his prince and the noblewoman. Father raised a single brow and his fingers ceased tracing the parchment, though otherwise he remained impassive to the news.

I did my best to follow his example, crossing one leg over the other before addressing our guests for the first time. "What motives can you offer for her disappearance?"

A soft chuckle. "Details are difficult to come by, Lord Kurama." No derision tainted her voice, though her eyes hardened all the same. Rui's hands shifted beneath the great sleeves of her robes, infantile serpents seeking to strangle one another. Her anxiety stung my nose, none of which registered on her face:

Truly, the ice maidens' reputation preceded them.

"Much like Gandara, Hyouga has few allies and many enemies." She began, lips twisting, carefully contemplating every word. "Both countries harbor terrible power, knowledge which sets us apart from the rest of the world." Yusuke appeared ready to object yet one look from Hokushin stilled his tongue. Rui noticed this as well. "I mean no offense, Lord Yusuke. For centuries, Tourin has rested upon its own strength: a strength our world readily accepts and can be proudly proclaimed without shame. Your country is great and we are appreciative of your friendship."

Yusuke's nose wrinkled as he tasted her words on his tongue. Finally, he set his chin in one hand, placated for the time being.

"However," Rui continued, glancing between father and myself. "Elves have always held the their source of power close to the chest: it is how your people won the Dragon's War long ago, as well as how your country can stand alone if need be, as in the last war with Ysbryd."

Another low hiss, though father remained stoic under the reminder of his blindness.

"Hyouga also has her secrets which allow us independence, secrets traditionally passed from mother to daughter." At last, Rui's hands gave up the ghost and she shifted her gaze to father, eyes fixed carefully on his cheekbones. "Princess Yukina is the recipient of those treasures – a worthy vessel taught since birth by Queen Hina." A mirthless smirk contorted her lips and she stared at some point over my shoulder. "As you can imagine, her disappearance has upset the entire country."

I crossed my arms and settled further into the chair, allowing the wood to stiffen my back into an iron rod. "So, you believe whomever is responsible for her disappearance desires Hyouga's secrets?"

"Yes." Firmness reclaimed her mouth, setting pale lips once again into a thin line and she dared meet my gaze. "Our princess is everything to us – we will reclaim her at any cost."

"So, they came all the way here to ask for King Yomi's help?"

Blessed twilight peeked around various tree trunks, long fingers slipping through natural slits in the castle walls. Much like that morning, we traipsed through the corridors in pairs – Yusuke and I leading with Hiei and Kuwabara close behind – though unlike before, the air remained decidedly dismal, strained–

Hiei had not spoken once since the meeting.

"I don't get it." Kuwabara continued, voice harsh in the soft light. Glancing over one shoulder, I noted his furrowed brow, how he did not quite know what to do with his hands. Ancient branches bearing sconces dipped elegantly away from him, careful of his best blue suit. For once, however, he did not notice their attentions. "If all they wanted was our help, couldn't they have just sent a courier? Why would they send a member of the royal family?"

The same questions spurred my thoughts as well, though I held my peace.

Kuwabara frowned, roundlet tilting ever so slightly as he glanced down at Hiei. "What do you think?"

"I think it's all a load of crap." Yusuke scoffed, weaving thick fingers together to cup the back of his head. Stubborn shells and bits of brass cackled against his horns as he lengthened his stride, each trophy adding to the conundrum of his hair.

Raising a single brow, I glanced at my cousin. Smile abandoned alongside his club in his private chambers, Yusuke's eyes remained closed as we neared our destination, relying on childhood memories to deliver him safely. Hints of a breeze slid through the walls to whisper against the navy plaid, further parting the folds at his bare chest. If he was conscious of his state of undress, he hid it well.

I nodded to yet another guard as we passed a junction, each step carrying us deeper into the living fortress. One look proved he'd garnered both of our companions' attention, though it was I who spoke. "Would you care to elaborate?"

Another snort as we turned into an all-too familiar corridor. A stout man stood at the last door to the right, spear held at attention, leather armor gleaming in the torchlight. The guard acknowledged both Yusuke and I with a deep bow, though he made no move to leave until he saw Hiei at my back.

Once he disappeared around the corner, I pushed my chamber door open, ushering Yusuke and Kuwabara inside. As always, Hiei refused to enter before me. Rather, he stood in the threshold even after we crowded into the sitting room, regarding the empty hall with suspicion. Before I could question his hesitation, however, he slipped inside and shut the door.

Yusuke's lips refused to budge even after I set the fireplace ablaze and we settled in: he occupying the couch along the far wall, Kuwabara and I taking the room's two chairs. Hiei maintained his post by the door as was his habit, red silk settling silently against an ivy tapestry – a rose boasting twin silver thorns.

Braids spilling over his shoulders and into his lap, Yusuke shifted against the cushioned wood before propping one foot atop the low table, hands still clasped resolutely behind his head. Both eyes were open now, though he did not appear to truly see anything before him. Kuwabara eyed him with some apprehension, obviously wanting to press further but not quite daring to.

Finally, Yusuke brought both palms down to grip his knees, plaid parting further as he leaned forward. "If Hyouga's so desperate, why did they come to Gandara instead of Tourin?"

Kuwabara blinked, clearly taken aback by my cousin's anger. "W-what do you mean your–" One look and he swallowed, forcing the words to rearrange themselves on his tongue. "Yusuke? Gandara and Hyouga are allies, right?"

"Uh, hello? We're allies too – Tourin signed a treaty with Hyouga fifty years ago." One finger keeping time on his knee, Yusuke rose to his full height, lips parted in a sneer. "In fact, we've been allies with them longer than Gandara! So why would they come to the elves before us?"

Kuwabara did well in not wilting under Yusuke's anger, trying instead for a logical debate. "Maybe they did go to Tourin and only came here after seeing you weren't in Tourin."

"No." He shook his head. "Hokushin would have known if something like that happened. Besides, the old man's home, so–" Here, indignation gave way to something else entirely and Yusuke's eyes darkened to deep maple. Jaw set, he reclined once again against the couch, crossing his ankles. "Point is, if they're really so desperate, they would've stopped in Tourin first."

Brow furrowed, Kuwabara leaned forward, never taking his eyes from Yusuke. "Why's that?"

"Because Tourin lies north of Gandara." A cutting baritone and Hiei finally broke his silence. Every eye turned towards him but he kept his attention on the door, arms crossed loosely over his chest. The tips of his foremost fingers kissed the pommels of either blade, though such a thing would go unnoticed by the untrained eye. "It's simple geography."

"Hiei is right." I offered, quick to distract the knight from the thinly-veiled insult. "To get here from Hyouga, one would have to cross Tourin's borders at some point, even if traveling by sea." Reaching out, I rescued a scroll from Yusuke's muddy shoes. The parchment creaked, unfurling to reveal a map of Gandara and the surrounding kingdoms. "As you know, Gandara borders Ysbryd to the west and Tourin to the north." Kuwabara nodded as I pointed out both countries, following my finger with surprising studiousness. "The Lonely Kingdom – Alaric – lies west of Ysbryd, though it shares borders with none but the sea."

Here he stopped me, tracing the rough boot which constituted Alaric. "Why is it called 'The Lonely Kingdom'?"

"Because Alaric has no allies to speak of." I traced a line from the island kingdom to Tourin, tapping the parchment gently. "The only country which keeps regular contact with their king is Tourin, though this is due more to kinship ties than anything else."

Yusuke shrugged at Kuwabara's questioning glance. "Some of our people sailed there centuries ago."

"Yes, and never left." My finger moved steadily upwards, garnering the human's attention. "Hyouga lies here, several leagues northwest of both countries." Indeed, Hyouga rested at the uppermost portion of the parchment, an afterthought of the mapmaker's. Her rounded borders shone purple, her landscape a soft blue – truly an ice maiden's kingdom. "As you can see, anyone from Hyouga would undoubtedly have to cross Tourin's borders to reach us. Either that or come by way of Ysbryd–"

"And we know that's not happening!"

I couldn't help but agree with Yusuke. The fact there was no love lost between Ysbryd and Hyouga was no secret, and to risk faring Alaric's waters– "No, they would have to come through Tourin."

Uncertainty twisted Kuwabara's lips as he stared at the countries dotting the map, going from Hyouga to Tourin to Gandara. "Is it really that big of a deal they didn't stop in Tourin?"

Yusuke shrugged. "Personally? I could care less." He rolled his shoulders, bringing both hands behind his head once again and closing his eyes. "But the fact they didn't visit the old man is an insult to my people and I have a big problem with that." A flicker of brown and he opened one eye to stare at Kuwabara. "Besides, the timing's really bugging me."

"The timing?"

I leaned forward. "You don't think this is a coincidence."

A snort. "C'mon fox boy, you're thinking the same thing." He glared down at the map. "First time we're together in twenty years just happens to be the day Gandara gets a royal request from Hyouga?" Both eyes opened and he pegged me with a glare. "Who we're both allies with? I'm not buying it."

Rui's behavior from earlier came readily to mind and I eased back, bringing a contemplative hand to my lips. "Do you believe her aim was to insult Tourin openly or to request the aide of both our countries at the same time?"

Another shrug. "Dunno – you're way better at these games than I am."

I settled further into the chair, fingers laced beneath my chin. From a political standpoint, the former seemed unlikely – why would Hyouga wish to anger an ally known for its military might? On the other hand, King Raizen's condition was well-known among our allies, despite Hokushin's great care. Truthfully, Yusuke had ruled his country in some capacity since his eighth year, though Hokushin would officially maintain regency for another three winters. Contrary to centuries of tradition, King Raizen remained ruler in name only:

Insanity knew no respect for station. "I believe it is the latter."

Yusuke's mouth remained set in a tight frown but he raised one brow, waiting for me to continue. Sorting through each thought carefully, I brushed my lips against scarred knuckles, contemplating. "Given the nature of the request, you and Hokushin are the only Tourites capable of helping Hyouga. Thus, it stands to reason they would wish to speak to you both directly as soon as possible."

"Yeah, I get that." A click of his heels and Yusuke sprang upright, brows furrowed. "But how did they know we'd be here?"

"That I cannot answer." I sighed, glancing at Hiei, who continued to watch the door. "Perhaps there is an ulterior motive in their coming to Gandara, though what that motive might be I could not guess."

Ever since we were children, I'd held Hiei's opinion in high esteem. Often, when faced with seemingly impossible choices or confronted with the pressures of courtly relations, I would seek my companion's counsel. There were no limitations to such talks between us. Though he did not always possess an answer to my dilemmas, Hiei always offered a listening ear and his honest opinion – more than could be said for many in father's castle.

He knew the last was directed at him – I could tell by the tension seeping into his shoulders – though he refused to look at me, resolutely resigned to silence.

Odd.

Kuwabara shifted at my side, spinning the roundlet between nimble fingers. "So, what did the lady look like? I couldn't see her through the crowd."

"Like any other ice maiden." Yusuke shrugged, digging into one ear with his pinkie. "Blue hair, red eyes, really short – you know, the works."

"An approximation," I countered. "Though not inaccurate." A smile crept into place at Kuwabara's bewildered look. "Koorime – or ice maidens, as they are more commonly known – are unique in that they can reproduce asexually."

His eyes widened further. "You mean . . . they can have kids by themselves?"

"Yes, but only girls." I held up a finger, pointing back to the map. "This trait stems from the very first koorime – Hyouga's ancestral mother. Legend has it she founded the kingdom for her family, a place where she and her daughters could live in peace. Because of this, all women of Hyouga share an astounding likeness." Kuwabara nodded slowly, digesting every word. "This is also why Hyouga's social structure is that of a matriarchy – it is not a place for men."

He licked dry lips, glancing between Yusuke and I. "Then why did she have that guy with her–"

"Just because they can reproduce alone doesn't mean they won't share their beds."

One sharp remark and Hiei shattered his silence yet again. He maintained his stance against the wall though now he glared at the door, muscles taut, jaw set.

Yusuke raised a brow. "You mean they like a little hanky-panky?"

An indignant squawk from Kuwabara, who's complexion suddenly darkened to deep pomegranate.

Hiei snorted, settling more of his weight upon his shoulders. "All creatures enjoy carnal pleasures – why should the koorime be any different?"

"But . . . Kurama said Hyouga was built for women–"

"By a withered hag nearly a millenia ago." A shifting of red and Hiei crossed his ankles, granting Kuwabara a cursory glance. "No woman in her right mind would choose to remain celibate her entire life. Surely even you realize that."

I leaned forward, garnering both men's attention before another squabble ensued. "Where do they acquire the men? From my understanding, koorime never leave Hyouga – even their trading partners must come to them."

Hiei regarded me cooly, head tilting back ever so slightly. "You saw one here, did you not?"

"Aw, c'mon hot pants!" Yusuke chirped, grinning at his grimace. My cousin gifted us both with nicknames shortly after our first summer together and though the signatures were well-earned, Hiei absolutely loathed his. "You've already told us this much – no reason to be coy now."

Ruby eyes narrowed to slits, Hiei gave Yusuke his most putrid glare. For a moment, I feared he really would leave off speaking until finally he sighed, settling comfortably against the wall once more. "At first, they were victims of the sea: shipwrecked sailors, fishermen set adrift, or very unlucky pirates. Each became trapped on the island and considered it a blessing to find some sort of civilization there – a country occupied only by women." Another snort. "Fools thought they could force the koorime to bend to their will."

Yusuke cupped his cheek in his hand, leaning against one knee. "Take it that didn't happen?"

Hiei did not justify that with an answer. Instead, he allowed his gaze to roam back to the door. "Only women are considered citizens of Hyouga – it's been that way since the beginning."

"Wait a minute!" The roundlet ceased turning and Kuwabara pegged him with an accusing look. "You said ice maidens can have kids by themselves – you didn't say they couldn't have 'em with men too!"

Another raised brow. "Congratulations, you recognize simple sentence structure."

"Don't give me that crap!" Kuwabara growled, half-rising from his seat. "What if an ice maiden has a boy? What happens to the boys?"

An inscrutable expression darkened Hiei's face and he glanced at me, nodding. "There, fox, is the answer to your question."

We learned quite a bit about the Ice Kingdom that night, mainly the positioning of men in a land where they were never meant to belong.

Interesting facts such as the second Queen outlawing marriage, opting instead for a more advantageous role for the men under her rule – that of bed slaves:

Concubines.

Of course, the Queen knew eventually emissaries from other kingdoms would visit, seeking peaceful ties for trade, if nothing else. Thus, she added to the men's shame by enforcing three laws, each of which ensured they would not be mistaken for a foreign official: the first, all natural-born men of Hyouga must wear a collar, beginning when they could hold their heads upright alone; the second, every boy must have his vocal chords removed by his fifth year – an instrument of pleasure had no need to speak, after all. The third:

All concubines must wear black at all times.

I pondered these things long after Hiei left, seeing Kuwabara back to his rooms upon my request. The night air kissed my hands as I leaned against the balcony in my bedchamber, frowning at the purple iris. The flower had grown quite a bit since my boyhood, even spreading its seed so others shared the pot as well. Even now, the iris coaxed me with a simple song, mimicking the music below, yet I would not be distracted so easily.

Once again, the man from earlier crossed my mind: pale skin which appeared unearthly due to his attire, the unforgiving leather clutching his throat, two needle-thin scars gracing his larynx. Without a doubt, I knew–

Karasu was a concubine.

Surprisingly, this knowledge did not help ease my trepidation regarding him. True, I now understood his attentions toward his mistress – for Rui was indeed his mistress – yet something about Karasu set me on-edge: one look from those slate eyes and an invisible noose tightened around my neck, threatening to eat my soul. Just the thought of his cold, dead eyes sent my heart racing; every instinct told me to run, reducing me to a frightened child–

It was maddening.

"You kicking me out, too?"

I smiled at the lighthearted tone, turning. Hair ornaments clacking together, Yusuke sauntered into the room, glancing about without much interest. He frowned, though I couldn't blame him. Truly, nothing stood out in my room: a simple bed draped in linens; an overcrowded desk brimming with half-used parchment, detailed maps, and well-worn writing utensils; tapestries and rugs covered everything not made of wood, thus much of the floor and walls. The only items of note were various potted plants and leather-bound volumes lining natural crevices in the ancient tree trunks, though these failed to interest him even as a child–

Yusuke had never been an avid reader.

"I suggested we adjourn for the night because of Kuwabara's obvious exhaustion." Our human companion successfully stifled three yawns before a fourth spilled out with much gusto, causing him needless embarrassment.

"Yeah?" He settled with his back against the balcony's wooden arc, crossing his arms. "And what about hot pants?"

"Yusuke, you know just as well as I how treacherous court can be."

He remained silent at this, turning to peer out at the gardens below. Yes, of course he knew. More than one 'accident' had occurred in court during our lifetimes: a drunken nobleman found dead after falling down a flight of stairs; women never waking from their slumber after announcing a pregnancy; young lords disappearing into the night just before inheriting their father's estates–

Court was no place for a human to transverse alone.

"Hiei'll keep him safe, you know."

I smiled, leaning into the breeze. "Yes, I know."

We allowed a few moments to pass in companionable silence, content with simply observing. Father had long since returned and the banquet was in full swing, spilling from the great hall to the gardens. Oni, elves and humans alike drank, ate and sang, dancing in turns and laughing at each others' impaired attempts. Flowers having long bid the world goodnight, the revelers had the place to themselves, though each foot remained careful of the sheathed buds.

Chin resting on his arms, Yusuke appeared content with watching his people all night.

However, I knew we did not have that luxury. "How is King Raizen?"

The inquiry was soft, yet he looked as if I'd struck him. Yusuke recovered quickly, returning his gaze to the party. "Like I said earlier, same-old, same-old."

I turned my back to the scene, cementing him in place with one look. "Yusuke."

"What? He's the same he's always been: ornery, arrogant, stubborn as a–"

"You know that's not what I meant."

He froze before closing his eyes, expelling a careful breath. "Yeah . . . yeah, I know."

Another breeze came and I waited, allowing him all the time he needed to gather his thoughts. Yusuke remained slouched for several minutes, refusing to move even when a few braids tangled in his horns. Somehow, he appeared surprisingly vulnerable – silhouetted in the moonlight, shut off from the world by his closed lids.

When finally he allowed his eyes to open, he still refused to look at me. "He's getting worse, Kurama."

The admission was barely above a whisper, yet more than I hoped to hear. "How so?"

Yusuke swallowed, flinching away from the soft inquiry, the arms crossed harmlessly at my chest. One thing my cousin refused to accept was pity – he'd been this way since we were children. Hiding behind smart remarks and elusive grins, Yusuke always kept his true thoughts and feelings hidden, safe from the roving eyes of the public:

Such was the duty of a crown prince.

A loud peal of laughter below and his hand moved, diving into the plaid's folds. After a moment of searching, the appendage reemerged, stout leather bag in tow. Yusuke then pulled a bent-necked pipe from the bag, fingers diving back to stuff the clay mouth with tobacco. Sticking the wooden neck securely between his lips, he reached into the plaid once more for a stone and sheathed knife. Finally, he struck the blade against the flint rock until sparks hit the thirsty grass, inhaling deeply before exhaling purple smoke.

Yusuke repeated the last action several times, allowing the taste of home to comfort him before continuing. "None of the old tricks are working: no matter how many willing women Hokushin finds, it's not enough. The old man can have twenty a night – thirty, even – but it's not enough . . . it's never enough." Another careful drag, embers reflecting individual facets of tumultuous mahogany. "Sure, the Hunger'll be sated for maybe an hour, two tops; then the whole thing starts again."

The Hunger – secret shame of the oni. Rooted in instinct, the disease remained dormant in the blood until the spring of adolescence, sinking its talons into the hearts and minds of men until they came of age. Irresistible urges, an insatiable appetite for the opposite sex–

It was the reason many oni mated by their fifteenth summer.

Thankfully, my uncle found his mate early in life. A beauty with black hair and honey eyes, various officials still boasted of her sharp mind and brash tongue, her fearlessness against his renowned temper. According to father, King Raizen's love for Queen Atsuko knew no bounds: no matter the request, she needed only ask and he would move heaven and earth for her–

Which made her death all the more difficult.

Much like myself, Yusuke never met his mother. Shortly after giving birth to Tourin's first prince, she passed in her husband's arms – King Raizen's screams filled the halls for days. So poignant was his grief that he gave no thought to remarrying, even after the Hunger began to stir once again.

Like any disease, if caught early and properly treated, the oni curse did not debilitate; rather, it faded to the normal desires experienced by men. However, if left to fester, the Hunger latched onto the mind, overriding all else and bending the libido to its will:

By the time my uncle realized the need to find another Queen, it was too late.

I frowned at another outburst below, followed by the tinkling of bells. "Does he still refuse food and drink?"

An affirmative grunt and Yusuke expelled smoke from flared nostrils. "He'll take a bit after the edge wears off, though that window's getting smaller and smaller." A sad smile, one which did not fit quite right on his lips. "Old guy's still strong as an ox but he's all muscle and bone, now."

I nodded, remembering the impressive figure of the oni king from childhood: wild white hair kissing both heels, free from braids allying him to any specific clan; a strong jaw which rose half a head above father, an easy smile; arms and legs bigger than my entire body, capable of ripping a horse in two or hugging a three year old boy. Every memory of King Raizen warmed my heart, even the days when he threw food trays against the wall in fits of rage, eyes feral and unseeing.

"I take it you've heard the rumors?"

He snorted, rising to his full height. "Why do you think I'm here?" Scowling, he dumped the ashes from his pipe before glaring up at me. "Let's get one thing straight: I don't know what you've been told but my dad's innocent."

Of course Yusuke would see through the ruse of father's invitation. I sighed, straightening as well. "Then you know several women along our shared borders have disappeared–"

"And I'm telling you, he didn't do it!" He stepped forward, face mere inches from mine.

A slight furrowing of the brow and my arms dropped, though I stood my ground. Brass horns heralded another song, though the merriment went unnoticed by my cousin: fists clenched, lips parted in a snarl–

Eyes begging me to accept his challenge.

"What proof do you have, Yusuke?" I demanded, careful in keeping my voice level, objective. "While I may believe you, my opinion holds no sway in the matter: what can proof can you offer my father concerning the well-being of his people?"

Yusuke retreated a step, forcibly shifting his anger to steely resolve while crossing his arms. "I've been living among the lowland clans for the past three summers – the old man's been at his castle with Hokushin the whole time. Besides," He shifted his weight, cocking his head. "Even if he could think clearly long enough to hunt women, why would he go after yours? Tourin's full of girls who're more than willing to serve their king." A sudden grin, one which showcased fang. "And no offense fox boy, but your women are butt-ugly compared to ours."

I couldn't help but smile at the brazen statement; such was Yusuke's charm. "You seemed to have no issue with the dancers earlier."

"'course not – their knockers were huge!"

A companionable silence fell then and Yusuke refilled his pipe, calm overtaking his features as he lit the tobacco and inhaled deeply. The party below having long since reached a stage only the truly drunk could enjoy, most were in a state of disarray, yet he watched the merry-makers all the same. I settled back against the balcony's rim, staring at the ever-swaying irises.

The disappearances of women in Gandara's folds had troubled father for months. Although no one said as much, most believed them to be directly linked with Tourin's open-secret: the Hunger of a crazed King. Obviously, father did not want to believe his brother capable of such atrocities, yet the Hunger knew no boundaries.

There was no doubt in my mind Yusuke spoke the truth – his love for Tourin demanded no less – yet still my mind hearkened back to our earlier meeting. A missing princess, Gandaran women spirited away in the night; three allies brought together by the two events, none of whom had been in regular contact for quite some time–

Something about this did not sit right, yet I could not find the piece linking everything together.

"You know I just had a birthday."

Yusuke's voice stilled the irises' dance. Head tilted back, he watched as smoke rose to mingle with subtle starlight, expression inscrutable. The wind once again came to play with his hair, bringing along the aroma of flowers. Gentle wisps of air contorted the vapors into strange shapes, the scents of our respective homes mixing to form a unique, almost sickly sweet fragrance. I could not tell if Yusuke noticed these things – such was the strength of the stars' spell – so I gave an acknowledging hum, waiting for him to begin again.

Taking the pipe between knowing fingers, he inhaled once more before pulling at the clay bowl, smoke pouring from parted lips. Staring at the engravings etched into the bowl, he licked at the purple staining his lips, brows furrowed ever so slightly.

"As a kid, I always looked forward to birthdays: you know, gifts, people kissing up to you, that sort of thing." A smile for a particular memory, pipe carefully rotating between his fingers. "But now, they just mean I'm getting older; still get presents and all that, it's just–" Here he paused, unsure, not quite willing to look at me. "Look, I know this is stupid . . . But to be honest? I'm kinda scared."

The last was barely audible, yet I refused to react to his confession. Fear normally had no place in the brazen prince's vocabulary and if need be, I would be his confidant.

He licked his lips again, savoring the taste of sweet smoke before continuing. "Sometimes, I can feel it stirring around inside – wanting to wake up but knowing it's not time yet. The feeling comes out of nowhere: when I'm eating, hunting, trying to sleep . . . I don't even have to be thinking about a girl and bam!" He lashed out with his free hand, knuckles striking wood with a resounding 'crack'. "The urge to mate hits. Not rut – mate."

Here Yusuke paused, staring at his reddening hand. "When that happens, it's like nothing'll ever be okay again unless I mate: blood turns to hot steel in my veins, the skin tries to crawl off my body, everything gets loud – stupid loud – and every woman I know pops up in my head naked, even my sisters and aunts." His nose wrinkled in disgust and he shook his head, braids flying. "I don't know how much more I can take, Kurama, and it's just getting warming up."

I bit my inner cheek, momentarily stepping back in time. Lost to drink, my cousin was a force to be reckoned with among women: he'd flirted with no less than six tonight and if Hiei had not stopped him, Yusuke would likely have taken his chosen dancer to his private chambers. The only advice I could offer chilled my stomach, yet I forced the words out. "Perhaps finding a mate now isn't a bad idea."

His face slackened in horror and I rushed to add: "If you find a mate soon, the Hunger will be sated before it can truly begin to fester – you need never fear it again." His mouth closed at this, lips white with effort. "There are many women in Tourin who would gladly be your bride–"

"No." Yusuke finally met my gaze, eyes burning with conviction.

I frowned, noting his trembling fist. "Yusuke–"

"No, Kurama! I won't make a woman marry me so that I'll be sated!" He glared at the offending hand, nose wrinkled in disgust. "If I do, I won't be any better than–" There he stopped, squeezing both eyes shut and taking several deep breaths. The fist continued to shake, begging to break something, though the hand holding his pipe did not move – the priorities of an oni.

He only dared speak after both hands lay completely still upon the balcony. Taking a final breath, he opened his eyes, shoulders shifting to face me. "Whoever I mate will be the Queen of Tourin – the mother of my people. She'll rule beside me and not behind: you know I don't care about that chauvinistic crap."

He settled on his elbows before sighing, glancing at the stars once again. "Don't get me wrong, whoever I marry'll knock the socks off any woman you'll ever find." He grinned, rubbing one horn. "She's gotta have a brain, though; or at least be smarter than me."

One of my brows rose of its own accord. "That is your requirement?"

"One of 'em, yeah." He shook his head, fingers roving to his hair. "Come on, fox boy, you know thinking's never been my thing! My people'll be in a mess if I become king by myself." The grin slipped to a softer smile and his face dipped down, eyes tracing patterns in the wood. "I'm not asking for much: just want her to be from Tourin; smart, sexy – she's gotta have a body – and it wouldn't hurt if she's beautiful, too." He played with a particularly large seashell near the crown of his head, contemplating. "Seems we're always ticking somebody off, so she's gotta be able to take care of herself – I don't do pampered princesses – and I want her to be strong enough to put me in my place if need be."

I chuckled. "That's quite an extensive list."

"Only the best for Tourin!" He winked before donning a more somber expression, glancing back at the party. "I just don't want to marry a spoiled brat who can't fight her way out of an open sack. My country needs a woman, not a girl." He shrugged, the motion morphing into a deep sigh. "I've been looking for months and haven't found her yet."

My lips relaxed and I laid a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "Don't worry, you will."

"Thanks." Yusuke returned the gesture before yawning, arms lifting in a full-bodied stretch. "Man, I'm beat!" He popped his neck, dumping ashes over the balcony's lip before returning the pipe to his plaid. "Mind if I crash here tonight? It's a long walk back to my rooms and I really don't wanna deal with Hokushin."

He appeared calm, relaxed, yet I knew better. I'd noticed the tension in his shoulders, how one foot tapped impatiently against the smooth stones, the hardness overtaking his eyes. Karasu came to mind unbidden, mighty wings ready for flight, slate eyes looking everywhere yet somehow always settling upon me–

I fought the shudder creeping down my back.

"Kurama?"

My eyes opened – when had I closed them? – to find Yusuke staring, gaze piercing through every defense. After a moment, his body immediately shifted to a more natural stance, hands plunging into navy folds as he cocked his head. Try as he might, he could not fool me–

Yusuke had noticed the attentions paid to me by our guest.

"It's nothing." I shook my head, leading the way back inside. "Feel free to use the couch, though be warned – Hiei normally stays here when we have company."

He smirked at this, hands moving to his hips. "Let him try to take my spot from me: I've got a good five inches on him!"

A/N: Hello again! Whoo, hope you guys enjoyed a longer chapter: An assassination attempt foiled, the joy of politics, male concubines and the Hunger – needless to say, I had fun writing this one.

Realize this one appears a bit information-heavy, but what's discussed in this chapter become important for the plot later on, especially where Hyouga and Tourin are concerned. If you guys have any questions about the world in this AU, please feel free to send a PM. Lots to look forward to!

Thank you so much for the new followers and for the reviews!

KyoHana: So glad you're enjoying reading The Whipping Boy! There's so much about the Middle Ages people don't know, so creating a medieval world with Yu Yu Hakusho is fulfilling. (I learn more about the period with each chapter.) Hopefully this chapter did not disappoint!

NoxChyc: Glad you enjoyed the dance! Shizuru and Kurama is definitely a ship, though it's not used very often. For this story, however, the coupling is definitely a thing. :) Thank you for your kind words!

Also, big thank you to my beta reader Candid Ishida! You're the best!

So, we have a creepy bird man and an icy lady in the castle! Are Kurama's anxieties well-founded, or is he overthinking things? Will Yusuke find a suitable woman in time, or is he doomed to succumb to the Hunger like his father? And why does Hiei know so much about Hyouga? It's tournament time next chapter! See you then!