Warnings:
1, This story is yaoi – Youko Kurama x Hiei
2, OOC-ness and this time considerable silliness
Standard disclaimer applied. See my profile.
AN: A big THANK YOU to all the people who had put either me or one of my stories on the list of favourites. It makes me very proud – it is mere couple of weeks ago when I started writing.
This is next (hopefully funny, but most probably just silly) chapter before the story turns a bit more serious. I consider it the end of part 1 of MR. Have fun! Mari
3 Changes
"Only a clumsy hunter lets his prey get away like that. And a clumsy hunter is a dead hunter."
"Hunter…?" The silver foxs head turned up to the second source of his frustration; only to see him jump off the tree and land several feet away from him.
"You are nothing but an idiot. Others treat you kind, only to learn about your weaknesses. You must be ready to get them first; or the prey you are supposed to hunt down gets hold on you faster."
Kuramas frustration melted into a weird mixture of uncertainty, amusement and exasperation, and he decided to act for a while in contrast to the respect he felt for the injured youkai – just to see his reaction. "So that is what you suggest? To turn friendships into a hunt? To live protected like a little frail glass doll; afraid of breaking into pieces if somebody touched me?" His look mirrored his thoughts as tellingly as his words did: "Or is it the way how YOU prefer to live? Or have you rather hinted what would you like me to do - with you?"
Disdainful golden stare met an equally scornful crimson one in a battle of glares. Still, the crimson forfeited its scorn and turned darker as he heard Kuramas voice again.
"Then what are you waiting for? This is a hunt, so get me. Youd become a legend - the one who defeated Youko Kurama. This is what you came for - not the jewels; am I right?" Youko said mockingly. "Then do it. Kill me already."
In a wink, a katanas tip was pointed at the throat of snorting Kurama. If this swordsman was concerned, it was obviously not enough to disarm him and hide his weapons away like they did while he was unconscious.
Hiei knew a direct confrontation would definitely disantangle their situation, in a way. Still, in this case, the koorime did with the daring fox what he was used to do with anybody else who kept being obnoxious – he made a death threat. A threat - nothing more. Hieis youki was so low that Kurama would probably get a fit of belly laugh, had Hiei tried to attack him. Worse still, his body forced him to get more sleep - what he obstinately refused to do in front of the fox. Attempt to escape in this condition would not improve the course of events either. However, no matter what he would come up with; ultimately, everything depended on Kurama.
"Dont tell me what to do. You know I hate it."
Hiei moved slightly while sheatheing his sword; and noticed two plants lessening until they turned back to seeds. He smirked. If he stabbed Kurama, the thiefs body wouldnt be the only corpse feeding the grass by now. 'His body wouldnt be feeding grass at all,' Hiei corrected himself. The fire demon had to give him credit for stealth and speed; there were not many demons able to surprise Mukuros general in combat - even if his current state of health could not match his usual condition. An importunate thought about a couple of sparring sessions sneaked and intruded his mind.
As Hiei focused on Kuramas features again wondering why he was still alive; a recollection plunged into his mind. He could remember the freezing sensation of being swallowed by the black oblivion. And he remembered how something tender and caring led him out of it. But above all; he found himself trying hard to ignore the newest result of his minds activity - a simple association. An association, that the tenderness belonged to the pair of amber eyes, and the inquisitive amber eyes belonged to the unpredictable thief whom he had been stalking all the time.
He quickly wiped the thought away. The worst thing he could do now was to think about Youko Kurama as a gentle person. He was not like that. He could not be like that. Hiei didnt want him to be tender and caring like he was in that memory.
Kurama was still looking at him; and Hiei suddenly realized that the features of his opponent and healer in one person had lost their disdain.And it occurred to him that he had to know more about him, to learn more about him, if he wanted to get out of this mess somehow.
"How is it possible?"
"How is what possible?"
"You, being so dependent of others. You said you hate being trapped; so why the hell are you posing to get all the attention?"
Kurama smiled at Hiei´s obvious attempt to gather information. But the young fire apparition got the feeling that the fox wasnt a fox but a cat - playing with him instead of a mouse - to his own liking.
"I may be posing. But there should be a lot of demons able to figure out that I´m just making mock of them and exaggerating."
Hiei didnt understand. "If they´re too stupid to find this out for themselves let it slide, then."
"I should do that, shouldnt I? Kuro is always saying it as well. Maybe youre right. It isnt funny if Im constatly the only person laughing."
"The only one laughing? And the bat?"
"Kuro? He knows me. And he was ready to accept all of my excesses without nagging me to explain them."
Hiei wondered how communicative the thief became, if talking about himself. However; knowledge was always beneficial to decide the best strategy - if he succeeded to make sense of what this kitsune was talking about. "But some things cannot be manipulated to your own liking. If the idiot wants to part so much, just let him go and pick somebody instead of him. Demons stand in line just to get to you; if you checked out-"
"-Im not interested in that kind of partner. The mobs after me because Im a perfect opportunity for gaining better rank or status; or just to have sex."
"But what reaction do you expect? If you manipulate them in a way, they behave that way."
"There must be somebody not willing to flock with the rest; demons who are not afraid to use their brains for themselves. Moreover, there is somebody observant enough to slip through the net Im making."
"But what if there isn´t any youkai interested in you and this little game of yours?"
"I created various rumours - in compliance with circumstances in each territory - to make them spread so far and fast as possible. Surely there are some intrigued demons."
"I wouldnt be so sure."
"There are some."
Quiet fell on both demons. Hiei was trying hard to make sense of what Kurama had told him, and the thief seemed to have several issues on his mind as well; so they were just standing and frowning, either of them wrapped in his own thoughts. Surprisingly, it was Hiei who broke the silence first:
"I dont understand why you kept talking. Nothing youve said is of my business."
"Why do you care?"
"I do NOT care."
"See, there goes your answer."
Hiei shot him a glare, so Kurama decided to extend his reply, just a bit.
"Well, if you do not care, it shouldnt matter whether I answered your questions or not."
With that and a roguish wink he dissappeared in the thick vegetation of the undestroyed part of forest, to finally catch something tasty to fill them up.
---------------------
Hiei felt that fatigue was slowly subsiding - but the dizziness was growing instead. His youki and temperature were everything but stable. Making a fire to warm himself up a bit was unquestionably a good idea, hadnt he been too weak for it. He needed more energy. He mused on what was worse; going back into the den to ransack it and most likely faint there; or taking a rest on a tree outside.
He decided for the tree; and his thoughts went back to the unpredictable thief.
He marvelled what could make Kurama behave the way he did. Hiei had always liked the direct approach; no matter the situation or opponent. But with this fox, nothing was clear or direct. And the dark demon realized it irked him… and fascinated him.
The fire demon had to acknowledge one thing, though: the silver youko was most likely very skilled and experienced fighter. So far, Hiei had never fought against a plant manipulator. He almost started daydreaming about all the new combat methods and tricks the fox could show him… when he realized what he was doing. He couldnt get rid of the feeling that the only idiot in this part of Makai was him.
Pondering upon Kuramas motives appeared more sensible than pondering over Kurama himself; so the sulky fire apparition forced his mind to focus on another thing.
He realized that he probably understood the reason for the flourishing gossips about the winsome fox.
With spreading rumours, the fox demon could tell apart everybody who approached him due to acquisitive purposes, because they would not hide it anymore; believing Kurama wanted exactly what they had to offer. He would smile at them, flirt with them or pull some useful information out of them; but he would never reveal anything to them.
Still, it was the rumors what made him the target for that worthless scum pursuing him.
'Why the hell would he go through all the trouble? He contradicts himself. He makes everything he can think of to arouse interest; and when he achieves it, he doesn't want it. It doesnt make any sense…unless…' Suddenly it struck him. It might have been a comfortable way of a loony thief to gather information; Kurama might have been having fun, might have been trying to find an equal challenger, friend or ally, whatever; but he had gone too far to do just that. He must have been searching for somebody special; letting them know he was there - not-forgetting, waiting.
'This youko is smart and powerful, independent. And patient. He must be a ruthless enemy.' For a reason, Hiei believed the original purpose of Kuramas strategy was to provoke and lure out one particular enemy.
--------------------
Kurama came back right before the sun began to set; carring two rabbits and a kind of a pheasant. He hadnt seen Hiei, but he sensed him nearby. Presumably, the weakened demon considered it pointless to make any effort to run away.
He made a fire and started immediately on the dinner – the rabbits. The pheasant, however had a different fate – Kurama put him into the blend of herbal mixtures made to fit his own tastes, and was looking forward to tomorrows delicious stew.
It didnt take long and – to his own surprise – a young, morose-looking, taciturn, freezing apparition appeared by the fire. Kurama didnt comment; he was too curious what Hiei would come up with.
While the meat was roasting and the younger demon scowling, Kurama was thinking about the target and time of the next heist. He had already verified some information about things in their vicinity worth stealing; one in particular was worth the effort. It was less than two hours of running from their current location. The only things left were to check the number and power of the guards, possible traps and safeguard of the treasure.
Except for the actual heist, this was his favourite part of every theft. He had to find a way to get close enough unnoticed, gain all the necessary information (and even those not-so-necessary if possible), and get out of the place unexposed. Those were the most challenging moments of every theft and he enjoyed every second.
When the thief was younger, he hadnt risked to go that far to verify the information. Kurama had been very cautious with everything he had been told and he had used completely different means to get what he wanted. But back then, he had used to work as a part of a pack, or its leader. Now, it was just Kuronue and him; and Kuronue would leave soon too.
During the last decades, much of the carefullness gave its place to excitement and cunning planning. Due to his immense experience, Kurama could even afford to develop the art of playfulness. Of course, never to the point of being reckless; that was the last thing Kurama would allow himself. Being reckless lead to being caught; and that meant death. And death was the only luxury Kurama could not afford yet.
Kurama decided that the best day for the survey would be two days after tomorrow. His energy was still a bit below its usual level, and there were too many thoughts blowing his concentration away. Like the one, that Kuronue would be back by tomorrow and he wanted to spend last days with his partner without arguments. Hieis presence wasnt making things any better. With the confusing lingering emotions from their healing link which urged Kurama to protect and respect Hiei instead of getting rid of him, the weakened demon functioned as a perfect distraction from any kind of activity.
In a few moments, one look at the rabbits and a sleepy fire demon forced Kuramas lips to form a slight smile.
"I caught rabbits, but if you dont eat them, I could grow a plant or a fruit of your choice." After the words, Kurama took one of the rabbits and started to eat.
"Hmm. Rabbits are fine..." Slumbrous Koorime followed suit; thinking the thief would not need to poison him if he wanted to get bigger prey than the one prepared to be dined. They were eating in silence, staring at the bonfire, and Kurama couldnt help but wonder. Hiei was acting completely opposite to his proclaimed ways - being foolish to trust and depend on anybody. And now he behaved like a careless child on a family trip; showing fatigue and lack of power so openely. It was definitely a matter of trust; but even though Kurama had known his condition and healed him, they were still adversaries. Or werent they…? Kurama didnt know anymore.
"Hiei..?" The smaller demon looked like he would fall asleep any second. "Hnnn…?"
"Do you trust me?"
"No." Hiei blinked lazily at Kurama, giving him a laboriously produced expression of indifference. Instantly, he knew why Kurama was asking and it irritated him, for he couldnt help it.
The dark demon then quickly averted his eyes to prevent the prying kitsune from discovering the helplessness and frustration which were building inside of him.
"Im like this since I sensed you were coming back from the hunt. Must have something to do with that healing treatment. Do what you want; I dont care anymore."
Hiei wasnt able to hold his eyelids opened anymore. He yawned, moved instinctively closer to the fire and fell into sleep, leaving Kurama with no option for further conversation.
--------------------
Nevertheless, the fox wasnt agitated at all. For the first time since he had awoken wrapped around Hieis small body, Kurama felt almost pleased, because he was obviously not the only one having unwished symptoms of the treatment. The consciousness of the healer as well as of the injured one had been exposed to each other and neither of them was accustomed to this level of sharing their spirits. They both were trying to cope with it in their own way. Kurama only hoped for the connection to disappear soon; it was bad enough to let a completely unknown creature touch your soul; not to speak about being attached to him for longer period of time.
Even though the fox didnt possess jagan to see everything clearly like Mukuros general did; he could subconsciously deal with the sensations he perceived from Hiei. That was very likely the cause for the inexplicable sentiments of trust and respect he was feeling for him. And he had a vague feeling that Hiei was having the same problem – the dark demon could deny it hundred times, but he too was forced to behave like he trusted Kurama. His injured body acting out of the reflex was proof enough. While being alone, the physical responses tried to keep Hiei alert - to face all potential threats and dangers. But as soon as approaching Kurama had reached the range of being sensed, Hieis mind read him as a person who would protect him; not endanger him. Consequently, the dark demons brain decided the body should take the chance and rest to re-gain its energy.
'Isnt that ironic? Thousand demons wouldnt get their beauty sleep at a mere thought of spending a night by my side; and the one who actually gets the chance uses my presence like a pacifier.' Kurama sniggered.
Finally, he felt at ease. And the last of a burden of his heavy mood lifted up at the sight of peacefully dreaming Hiei. 'Now I know why hes permanently irritated and scowling. With face like this, nobody would take him seriously.' Indeed, the sleeping demon looked like embodiment of innocence.
With a soft smile, the silver fox decided he could this time take the risk of acting on his instincts and clear the air with the childlike looking demon. There were a lot of things to be cleared yet; but Kurama was determined to see through Hiei.
--------------------
However, the curious kitsune needed the information about the connection. He had to know wheather Hiei was able to read his thoughts or just perceive his emotions and sensations. Put simply; he needed to know the range of its influence. But he definitely didnt want it to be as strong as during the healing; what he wanted was a shallow connection which could give answers to his question - this time without sharing his spirit and feeling the other spririts desire to merge with him.
Kurama started with simple sensations. He put his hands near the fire, concentrated on the radiating heat and a wish to use the link. For a while, he felt just one thing; namely that the fire would burn his palms if he didnt move them back. But then, an image of Hiei surrounded by heat came to his mind, out of nowhere. He concentrated rather on what his minds eye was perceiving and blocked out own senses. The shapes and colours became clearer.
In his mind, Kurama saw that the right arm of the raven haired apparition was on fire . . . and the next instant, the said fox found himself trying to put out the dark flames, thinking the demon was going to be burnt to death. However, the phantom of Hiei could interact with Kurama entirely well without any hindrance:
"Idiot. The fires not hurting me, Im a fire demon." The dumbfounded thief had never seen fire apparitions use their abilities; they were quite xenophobic breed and therefore rare to meet.
"Ahem…Nice dragon." Kurama was quite uncertain about what to do next. He didnt expect to join Hiei in his head like this – even if it was only an image and not the real one. He quickly changed the topic.
"Hiei, I dont want to barge into your private domain, but I need to test a few things. So we could cut the connection."
"Too late." The Hiei-image sounded irritated, but Kurama perceived an under-current of curiousity.
"Do you like pheasants?" He decided to discuss a light topic to avoid strong emotions; and the information could be easily checked tomorrow after Hiei woke up.
"Whats the point?"
"Tomorrows lunch is a pheasant stew."
"Ill survive." Words stated that pheasants were acceptable, but Kurama could feel a huge wave of disappointment. Hiei would rather fight twenty demons than taste a pheasant stew. Youko wanted to ask what he would he choose when he realized he already knew the answer. Against all expectations, the most desired food for a fire demon was fruit. And this particular fire demon harboured a secret passion for rokkel, a very scarce and delicate plant sort, giving fruits only once in five years.
"All this time I was thinking you were the master of thieves. And here, you have proven to be the master of cooks instead." The words sounded derisively, but the emotion connected to them wasnt scornful at all. Nonetheless, Kurama decided to change the subject.
"All right, what about the jewels? I suppose you still want to have them back."
"The stupid jewelry cost me already eight weeks of time. If I came back with empty hands now, Mukuro would…." Projection of Hiei in Kuramas mind shivered. Kurama caught a feeling of resentment and frustration followed by a vague sensation of …'feasts?!' Instantly, he knew about Mukuros desire to socialize Hiei; up to this point without any positive result. If Hieis mission failed, he wouldnt have much possibilities to ignore Mukuros wishes; most likely, she would command her general to take part in every social event she could think of. The thief was astonished: not many demons would choose a mission over entertainment. But again, the stream of impressions flowing from the sleeping frame beside let him know that Mukuros swordsman considered feasts everything but fun. More suitable expressions would be anguish and torture.
The accurateness of perceptions he was receiving from Hiei surprised the silver fox, though. He, like any other nosy beast, couldnt resist the temptation at hand. He thought it would be a sin to let such an opportunity slip – and started to influence the link in attempt to draw some valuable, his profession concerning information about the contents of Mukuros vaults.
"I would reconsider it, if I were you" a low growl vibrated in the thiefs head, and Kurama suddenly recalled all the things he saw in the deep red eyes when Hiei was staring at him this morning. No, Hiei was really not the right person to toy with. He quickly withdrew, with a touch of guilt and a great deal of rascality. "It wouldnt be me if I wouldnt give it a try."
"I wouldnt expect anything less." Hiei wasnt annoyed at all. Still, the fire demon in the thiefs mind caught also an apologetic whispering. And as Kuramas concentration allowed such an opening, he could also take a glance at genuineness of some of the foxs guarded feelings.
Their kind of telepathic conversation continued for several minutes. Kurama agreed to Hieis challenge to steal the jewels back; for the reasons of his refusal from yesterday were pointless in their current situation. They also agreed to keep it for themselves and not to mention it to Kuronue.
His partners name evoked a rush of emotions in youkos mind; and consequently, the image of Hiei voiced some opinions about Kurama being selfish and spoiled bastard due to the fact that he seemed unable to live without somebody backing him up. The whole matter exasperated him immensly, so he added some more sentences about the fox being hopeless, stupid and whimpering like a whelp, if he didnt know better methods than to force his own problems into the minds of those who were not interested.
By the end of their inner dialogue, Kurama had a strong motivation to support each decision what his soon to be ex-partner in crime could have done.
At last, Kurama put the activated link back into its dormant state and put out the bonfire - what earned him another growl from the sleeping fire demon. He just smiled, scooped Hiei and took him back into the den. The only thing left was to secure the entrance with the most vicious plants he could find. After he took care of their security, Kurama made himself comfortable. This time at the oposite wall of his haunt - away from Hiei; and wondered how this could have happened. He trusted this general so far as to let him in his den and sleep near him, after spending a mere day of his life with him.
--------------------
The forest was already chirping and singing odes to life when Kurama awoke. Hiei was still in the realm of dreams. Recalling the events from yesterday; the youko didnt want to disturb his sleep with leaving further than necessary.
When he sensed nothing suspicious outside, he removed the plants from the entrance and started on breakfast.
After a while, at least twenty kinds of various fruits were ready for being tasted. However, Kurama wasnt content at all. He wanted to grow also one or two pieces of rokkel fruit, but he left the seeds hidden in another den. Regardless the short distance, he determined to get them tomorrow, together with two of Mukuros jewels. The mischievous thief desired to make the little game of stealing he was playing with Hiei as amusing as possible; that was why he decided to hide the jewels right under Hieis cute little nose. However, he left the third piece of jewelry in a hiding place near Alaric- the heart of Mukuros territory where also her palace stood. It would take at least three weeks to get there.
When Hiei got up around lunchtime, Kuronue still hadnt returned yet. However, the fire demon didnt pay any attention to the missing chimera; he didnt even comment spending the second night in Kuramas den, for he found two bowls full of fruit. Kurama couldnt help but chuckle at the sight of what was unfolding in front of him. Hiei seemed like his world shrank to the luscious taste of Makai fruit and for a moment, his expression was a mirror of purest joy. For Kurama, this was evidence of authenticity of their connection. Even though the fire apparition wasnt awake at the time as he was making the experiment; what the youko perceived yesterday were obviously Hieis real sensations.
'Hmm, if he looks like in extasy at mere taste of this fruit, what would his expression be like if I gave him rokkel, which he adores so much?'
Kurama then made a fatal mistake; namely, he tried to visualize it.
'Inari, I shouldnt have done this…' he was blushing redder than ever. However, he didnt forget to make a mental note to get the seeds as soon as possible. Then he checked on the simmering stew.
"Good morning Hiei. Im glad you enjoyed your breakfast." Actually, Kuramas stew was almost finished, for it was already lunchtime.
"Hn."
"Hiei, yesterday, after you fell asleep, I made a kind of probe into our connection."
"I know."
"You do? You mean you remember everything?"
"Try me."
"All right, what about pheasant stew?"
"The master of cooks has risen again. Save yourselves."
"You really remember every detail, dont you?"
"Yes, even your panicked expression as you tried to put out my darkness flame." Kuramas cheeks grew hot, for the second time in a few minutes.
"Do you have an idea how we could cut the connection? I could use it as a weapon..."
Hiei blinked lazily at Kurama, giving him a listless expression. "If you wanted to kill me, Id already be dead. If I wanted to kill you, youd be already dead."
"But I could use the information I got. Sell them to your enemies, for instance. I know whats your weakness." Kurama made a correct conclusion, much the same as Mukuro, about her generals weak spots.
Hiei was staring on the grassy ground and for a few minutes, he seemed to be lost in thought. "I know your soft spot as well."
Then he set his eyes on Kurama in a sharp look."I dont see any other possibility." He took a deep breath, as if to face an invisible force: "Its a draw."
Kurama knew Hiei was right. This was the best thing they could do, because the link left them vulnerable. Even if it dissolved in that very moment, it was too late; for they had already seen too much, they knew too much. And they were sensing too much. Kuramas sentiment of trust in Hiei might have been absurd and causeless; nonetheless, it felt like an imperative. And judging by yesterdays events; Hiei didnt have any choice left either. They were adversaries and allies at the same time.
"I accept."
"So, what are we supposed to do now?"
"Do you want to taste my pheasant stew?"
"No. Ive just finished breakfast."
------------------
Kuronue came back late in the afternoon; and immediately noticed that Hiei was still there and alive. He couldnt help but smirk at the sight of his partner sitting by the fire and eating dinner with the demon who had been previously stalking him.
Even though he was still angry with Kurama, his features were radiant with happiness and joy. Luans parents had acknowledged him as a worth suitor for their daughter. Luan accepted his proposal; and now, he was proudly wearing a token of her devotion around his neck. In a months time, she would become his mate.
Although Kurama was having objections to binding to a mate and settling down; he swallowed them in attempt not to ruin chimeras blissful mood. Half an hour later, the black-winged thief enthusiastically showed him the red pendant hanging from a thin silver chainlet – token of Luans love.
Kurama realized that even if he was going to lose Kuronue as his partner, he would still have him as his friend. Thus, the mood of both thieves changed to joyful and slightly mushy; what was too much to bear for Hiei. Annoyed with their chirping and chatting, he made himself comfortable on the highest branch of the tallest tree he could find.
---------------
Hieis energy re-gained its previous level in next few days. He again gripped full control of his brain and youki. Still, the feisty appartition found out that Kurama was really having a tranquilizing influence on him, but it didnt cause him fits of uncontrollable slumber anymore.
Thus, Kurama made not one but several surveys; just to make sure the heist would be a successful one. He also payed visits to more of his dens and hiding places; and their current dwelling started to overflow with herbs, parts of clothing, books and scrolls- Hiei found even some jewelry, precious stones, weapons and magic items. Needless to say that the jewels he was searching for were not among them.
----------------
The last day of the thieves partnership started as any other day, with Kurama fussing over breakfast once again. Hiei became almost spoiled with the wide choice of all the preferable things he could eat. He was suspicious that Kurama was doing it on purpose; the fox could by now easily unravel all the confusing combinations of interlaced feelings their link sometimes created. They had no clue how to break the connection. Instead, they were learning how to live with it and use it to their common benefits; and for Hiei, it felt more and more difficult to guard his expressions. Even when he managed that, he felt like a fool for he knew Kurama could see through him. Despite that, he never felt he should let the mask slip.
Although their connection clearly existed, at least it wasnt growing more immense. They could still keep their thoughts and emotions private, if left in dormant state. In that state, the link influenced them rather on the subconscious level; usually, it gave them impluses to behave in a certain way. It lead to Kuramas decision to trust Hiei and Hieis tendency to be calmer near Kurama.
If they wished to activate it - as Kurama did during his first experiment, they had almost free access to the others mind. They could hear the thoughts, see images, associations, memories and sense the emotions. It was the same as when the fox asked the sleeping fire demon about the jewels and got all sensations concerned, including Hieis experiences of Mukuros methods to 'train' her heir for social interactions.
Still, they didnt want to poke into one anothers head too much; so they usually left the link dormant.
Kuronue didnt miss the changes in their behaviour, especially Kuramas. His partner was almost polite, when he was around the fire demon. And with Kurama around, Hiei seemed to lose much of his harshness – and found more and more occasions to leave the trees. The thief didnt know the reason for the new turn of the situation, but he sure had notion about what could cause their 'easy way' of getting along with each other. He was observant enough to understand that they were in the state of truce; still, it was the friendliest truce he had ever seen. He sometimes teased them with it, but mostly, he prefered to watch.
-------------------
The heist was planned on the night; they should set off with sunset. Around the midday, the thieves and Hiei were sitting near the bonfire and eating in silence. Kuro almost stopped wondering about the frequency of meals shared with the general. Still, this was the last day of being Kuramas partner, so he wanted to have some more fun than just this. And with Hiei so close to him, Kurama could be so easy to tease…
"Thank you very much, kid. You would never guess how pleased I am."
"Hn." Hiei - knowing Kuronues nature - didnt buy it.
"You know, things could turn out much worse without you. Thats why I want to ask you to accompany this crazy fox to my ceremony of bonding. Luans parents want to throw a feast after the ritual, Youkod love to have you with him."
A "huh?"was all Kurama managed to say. Hiei just scowled and readied himself to go back to the trees.
"Kurama is going through difficult times. So, Im really happy you are here to see to all his needs. Im sure you wont regret the time and energy youll devote to him. After all, hes a youko."
The said youko choked on his portion of fish and started to cough. It sounded like he was an incompetent, unable to take care for himself. On the other hand, Hiei reconsidered his approach to the hints the black bat was making and decided not to leave immediately. It could be funny, if Kurama was the target.
"And whats so special about youkos? They sure are frolicksome and sly, but thats all. Or do you know of something what makes them so exceptional?"
Kurama was still having considerable problems with breathing. And was it really a suggestive tone, what hed just heard in Hieis voice…?
"Oh, Im sure youve heard about their…agility."
"Hn. You know Kurama much longer than me. Is he really as…agile as he claims to be?" Now it was impossible for Kurama to miss the double meaning in their conversation.
"You have already had the chance to assess his strong points thoroughly. After all, you were the only one given the privilege of his exclusive attention lately. Dont tell me you didnt notice."
"Still I cant think of anything what would make youkos so special. And this one is not an exception."
Kurama finally averted the danger of being suffocated with a piece of fish. And as he was listening to that little dialogue, he decided it was the best time to join. As they said – after all, he was a youko.
"Why, Kuro, thank you. I didnt know you liked physical predispositions of my breed that much. Its a pity you wont get any chance to experience them in action. But maybe one day, when you and your mate get bored, you could ask one of my kind to help you overcome dull times and teach you more about the art of agility." Kuronue slightly paled. Kurama shot Hiei a meaningful look and continued his talk to the tongue-tied chimera.
"Did you know Hiei is a fire demon? His breed knows for sure how to heat things up; and with my breeds physical qualities, we could maybe give you some hints on what to do with your mate to improve your nimbleness. It was very reasonable of you to invite him to the ceremony as well, though. This way, we can be a great inspiration also for your lovely mate."
Kurama checked the result of his strategy. His partner seemed to lose the power of speech. But the swordsman was really red; not to speak about the heat radiating from him at the distance of several feet. Kurama was quite content with his achievement, but he wasnt ready to wrap it up yet. Not at all.
"I love hot stuff. Im indeed grateful that hes the one to see to every single need I could have. And I surely can think of a treat which would be worth his effort."
The next moment, two sultry amber eyes fixed on now so sorely tried fire demon. Kurama needed to get closer to Hiei in order to initiate the next part of his plan. However, he didnt need to stand up for it; instead, he got on all fours. Slowly, pace by pace like a beast on a hunt, Kurama was coming nearer and nearer to his prey. He laughed inwardly at Hieis expression; still, he was careful not to show any of his mirth. His eyes had never left the face of the blushing youkai. He was now only about ten inches far, so he stopped his movement; but he brought his mouth closer to Hieis ear, in order to tease him with his words.
By that time, Kuronue managed to recover and was looking at the scene in front of him with… lets say… great interest.
Hiei could feel the crazy foxs soft breath raising goose bumps on his neck. But neither the sensual expression in Kuramas eyes nor his suggestive actions surprised him; it was his scent. Naturally, he knew his odor as well as Kuronues by now, but he had never realized how pleasurable it actually felt to smell it. Kuramas scent was like forest soil and flower meadow, herbs and a brook. Like a summer morning, when dew droplets adorn the petals of Makai blossoms.
Yes, Hiei had been surprised, but not fooled for a second. In the same instant he managed to make a plan to retaliate. He could sense the emotions leaking out from behind the mask of the seducer – there were pure merriment and mischief.
He felt Kurama was going to say something. 'Hn. So the fox wants to play now.' He smirked inwardly. Kuramas joy, even if not shown, was obviously contagious.
"So my Dark Flame," Kuramas voice evoked an image of purring cat; "Have you already thought about the treat I could provide?"
"Hn. I doubt your skills suffice to satisfy any of my burning desires." Hiei was having hard times to hide his sneer, but contrived to look casual. "I can think only of one thing you could be able to handle for me."
"Name it, Dragon." Kurama was really enjoying himself; but he knew, the fun would end in a moment. He could already see himself drowned in waves of delirious laughter.
'Dragon, huh?' Hiei grinned and initiated his own version of counterattack. He lifted his right hand to entangle fingers in the strands of long silver hair playfully and with a challenging look in his crimson eyes, he uttered in all earnest:
"Dont cook any pheasants."
After hearing the fire demons answer, Kuronue, who was previously grinning, started laughing like a drain. Kurama, however, was able to keep his composure and acknowledge Hieis wish: "Anything you desire, Black Fire!"
Then he lost hold of himself as well.
This game of teasing was over.
For a couple of minutes, thieves were gasping for air due to their fits of laughter and Hiei got the impression of looking at two fishes. He was not laughing; but mirth could be clearly sighted in his features. This time there was no reason to hide it.
"Ill miss the fun." Kuros expression softened and his companions could easily spot the tinge of nostalgia in his eyes.
Hiei groaned. It was another time for mushy confessions. A time to retrieve.
"It was your decision to leave." Kurama frowned.
"And I dont regret it. Neither do I regret a minute of being a thief, or your ally, though."
"Im glad to hear that. Id hate to know I was the only one having fun."
"Yeah, with the legendary Youko Kurama as my friend, my beautiful Luan as mate, and this funny kid around, Im Makais luckiest bastard!"
Kurama swatted chimera with his tail. "Compliments will not help you, loafer. Get back to work!"
In the afternoon, both thieves were busy with the last preparations for their theft. They went through the plan for several times; just to be sure everything was flawless. Hiei had found among the foxs treasures some scrolls he wanted to skim through, so he was keeping himself busy and out of the thieves way.
When the sun set, they were ready to set off. Hiei got down from his favourite tree; he wanted to start the search for the jewels without losing any moment of thievess absence. Kuronue, when seeing him, decided to cheer him up a little – in his own way.
"Dont despair, kid. Your playfox will come back to you by sunrise at the latest."
"Hn. Just make sure hell get back in one piece. I wouldnt be glad if some part of him went missing."
"Dont worry, kid. Ill be extra cautious this time. After all, this is gonna be my last theft."
They left, leaving Hiei another chance to complete his own theft.
--------------
Something was wrong. He knew it. He could sense Kurama approaching, but there wasnt a whiff of Kuronues youki anywhere. And the foxs energy was having an odd rabid tang to it. It wasnt weak at all though; in fact, he seemed to be more powerful than ever.
Hiei was rummaging through the den, in order to find some clues about the whereabouts of Mukuros jewels, when he sensed Youkos ki. He decided to wait for him in the haunt.
When Kurama stepped in, he took no notice of the frowning fire demon. He went straight to the plant bag he used to store his clothes in, laid down the newest gain of his collection and picked out white slacks, a white long-sleeved shirt and a forest green tunic.
Hiei took a glimpse on the treasure, but couldnt believe in what he saw; it was one of the two Mirrors of Eyram! If the holder of Mirror of Eyram concentrated on a thing he lost and looked into the mirror, it showed him its location. There were only two mirrors like this in Makai. And one of them was now lying in front of Hieis unbelieving face.
"You can take it. I dont want it anymore." Kuramas voice felt like a stream of ice-cold water. He was hastily taking his clothes off.
"Hn. That is not a wise decision. It would put an end to our competition; and youd be the loser. Thats not very challenging."
Without a word, Kurama went out of the den. Hiei would have liked to know what was going on; he was thinking about leaving the den as well in order to extort some answers from Kurama. But the thief came quickly back; with two pieces of jewelry in his hand.
"Take them." He put them down beside the mirror. "I left the third piece in a hiding place four hours of running away from your castle. It wont be a difficult task to find it, if you use the mirror."
Hiei took the jewels. Their game of stealing was over; and he was the winner. But he didnt feel victoriously at all.
"Whats going on?"
Kurama was binding the strings straitening the shirts sleeves around his wrists. "Whats your problem? Cant believe you defeated me?"
Hiei was puzzled. With that freezing cold recklessness, Kurama reminded him of a blizzard.
The youko put on the green tunic and tied it with a matching sash.
"You already have what you came for. You dont need to bother yourself with staying here."
Hiei was getting annoyed. Kurama would not tell anything, his mind was guarded; and the green on him appeared almost disturbing. But the attire with an ornament of great nine-tailed fox on its left upper part seemed somehow familiar. Hiei was sure he had seen it before. He didnt know that much about youkos, but he could remember the image of nine-tailed fox with its head resting on Kuramas shoulder and tails spreading over his chest. 'Inari, the Youko Goddess!' His soldiers and servants were becoming crazy about that cult of Inari; some of them were quite devout, even if they had nothing in common with youko breed. Hiei instantly knew where he had seen it. His soldiers dressed the attire to fight in it. And to die in it. 'Its the ritual youko death-gown!'
With a gasp, Hiei looked sharply at Kurama. The youko could easily read from Hieis expression, that he reconized it, but the fox didnt have time or desire to explain anything to the baffled fire demon.
"There is no unclosed issue left between us. Leave now."
Hieis eyes glued to the silver youkos face in an intent and deep gaze. Then he turned away, without a word took the jewels and the mirror and started to walk out of the den. But then he stopped in midway and brought his eyes up to meet Kuramas one last time.
"I dont need a loser like you to tell me what to do." Then he turned away and left the youko´s den.
End of chapter 3
AN: OK, Im not happy with this one, but the next chapter will be definitely better (and shorter). Feel free to send praises and flames - if you only knew how eagerly Im waiting for your response - any kind of response... :-)) Have a nice week! Mari