The prospect of three days typically wouldn't be long at all. Mere blips in time. However, suddenly cut off from his distraction again, his bloodlust started to rush through his veins, making him all the more aware that he had left Sha's apartment only an hour prior. His temper returned, putting him slightly on edge. Hiei didn't pay attention as he continued down a sidewalk to his right. Someone turned the corner at the same time and he had to quickly sidestep aside.
"Sorry there," the demon said, and turned around to reveal Enki. His eyes lit up and he laughed. "Actually just the demon I was looking for. Didn't know how to contact you now that you're off the grid again."
Hiei arched a brow. "Me specifically?"
"Well those like you, with similar skillsets." He crossed his arms. "Word got around quickly that Salem and yourself were available for hire again."
"You mean removed from border duty."
"I meant what I said. I think it sounds better. And right for what I need. I was going to hire you on, if you're interested in pay."
"It depends what you need."
Enki pointed over his shoulder with his thumb in the direction he was initially heading. "I have a few things to pick up, if you don't mind accompanying me for a while."
Apparently, Enki had grown addicted to some of the cured meats available in a local deli after moving into the capitol city. They spoke quietly while they waited for his order.
Enki leaned on the table. "Spirit world has the detectives and the SDF. Human world has police and military. What do we have?"
"Nothing as of yet. We're still getting used to civility." Hiei leaned back in his chair, arms crossed. "You don't expect me to join a militant squad, I hope."
Enki waved a hand in dismissal. "Not like what you're thinking. Similar to what Mukuro is doing, but moreso just securing the areas of our territory in the wilds. Make sure nothing goes asunder. I'm also trying to form something locally. Nothing big as not much has risen, but there's been enough lately now that we're closer to the tournament. More than just your recent run in a few months back."
That got Hiei's attention. "How much more?"
"We've uncovered numerous human chop shops, both in and out of the city. They're starting to get desperate though, including demons into the mix for an added expense. Those are the ones we're finding in the wilds."
"There is more death out there. I suppose that sort of disposal would have less of an odor."
"I need a few more people on that team in particular to stop it before it gets worse. I need those that live and breathe the wilds. Demons like yourself, for instance, with intimate knowledge of the area."
"And do what exactly? Take the spirit detectives' jobs?"
"No, I've spoken with Koenma about this already. He's on board for removing at least that team out of demon world. He's still keeping the SDF, more for appearance these days. Anything that lets him have the semblance of control. He wants the detectives to patrol human world for threats, especially now that he can actually deploy them to more than just Japan." He clasped his massive hands in front of him. "I can't begin to say that this is how life is going to go for us after my run is up. While things have operated smoothly, if I lose and someone else takes over, it can be overturned instantly and we can be tossed right back into chaos and slaughtering each other."
Hiei snorted. That scenario was not likely. Not after Yusuke's motivational speech at the tournament three years ago. Not after the scientific advancements as of late. And especially not after the easier way of life. Not having to live in a fight or be killed world was more beneficial to most, in the cities anyway. And those that did not agree to that life did remain in the wilds where they could not be dictated.
"It's possible."
He took it all in, analyzing the offer. Overall it was a good one, and something right up his alley. "How often would I be deployed?"
"Only when you're needed, and for however long you're needed for. There's usually a few days in between missions. Longest I've seen is six days, shortest a few hours. Depends on who you come across."
"And how many on this team? Are they all competent?"
"Four so far. You would make five. It's solo work, so you don't have to worry about their competency. Only once in a while would I deploy you in particular with any of the others." He stroked his beard in thought. "I was thinking of extending the offer to Salem, if you would be interested in working with him. Your record stated he was one you worked well enough with." His order was called and they stood from the table. "Think about it. If you decide it's something you could do, come to my office tomorrow."
"And if it's not?"
"At least you know the offer is there and valid. Something not so glamorous as an office job."
He couldn't help but show his teeth in a grin. "I'd end up slaughtering every demon in the building."
"Which is why you're perfect for this. Paid to do what you love." His order was called again. "The door is open for you." He shrugged. "Couldn't hurt to try." He parted ways from the demon with a nod and went to retrieve his food.
Hiei turned and left the deli, back out onto the cold winter streets. He gripped the pommel of his sword as he walked the streets, attempting to keep his focus. He'd be lying if he said the offer wasn't extremely tempting. In this age of domestication, employment would get you farther than fending for yourself. It provided shelter, adequate food, and other comforts he hated to admit he had gotten used to over the years. Coffee was hard to come by in the wilds, after all, and he had found solace in the brown liquid.
He only curled his lip at the idea of being domesticated. Of having what the humans referred to as a "nine to five" situation. Paying other people for the comforts of living. The idea of earning that money by being a slave to someone else churned his distaste. However, if he could be paid to rid the wilds of demons, what he already did in his spare time…
"It's all up to you on how you define it."
He huffed an amused breath. Absolute nonsense.
Regardless, he found himself heading in the direction of Salem's home outside the city limits.