Author's Note: Was my last chapter bad? I didn't get any reviews on it so I'm beginning to think so... Anyway, I was going to hold this chapter (and the next) until thursday so I could get myself back in order, but it was to much of a gem not to post now. So the next chapter will still be this weekend (thurs-sun) but I had to post this one now. I hope you like it so REVIEW DAMNIT! I need reviews to keep me going!

Kurama never did get the chance to ask Botan about her severe scarring. Not that he hadn't been trying; Botan had proven to be as slippery as him when avoiding capture and somehow she had managed to evade him and his questions. The few times he had gotten her alone, she would either come up with some excused to get away, or Maya would interfere, vying for his affections blatantly and with increasing aggression. Kurama was known for his patience, but even he had his limits and when it came to his friends and other loved ones that limit was reached a lot quicker.

Kurama lounged on their new beige leather couch lazily, pretending to read one of the novels assigned for his summer homework. In actuality, he was watching Maya and Botan. Maya was bustling about the kitchen in hopes of making lunch for everyone since it was her turn to cook that day. In her hand was a cook book that she refused to take her eyes off of, fearing that she'd get something wrong for whatever recipe she had been preparing. Botan was sitting at the dinner table working on…something. At first Kurama thought she was working on both their masks, but now he wasn't so sure. The crafts supplies scattered over the table's wooden surface were too numerous and not all could be used for a mask.

"Minamino-kun…er…Kurama," Maya called, summoning his gaze onto her own form. "Would you come and taste this? I want to make sure you'll like it."

"If that is what you wish," Kurama smiled, scenting that whatever she was making was going to be delicious regardless of what it was. He rested his book onto the coffee table, spine up, before making his way towards the kitchen. From the corner of his eye he spied Botan's current project, or rather, the semi precious and precious stones used for it. There was a twitch in his finger, but Kurama fought the impulse that was crawling up his arm. He was no longer a thief and he refused to start again, no matter how…shiny and pretty they looked*. Kurama turned away from the table, not even bothering to look at what it was Botan was making since it would make him want to take it. He could feel the energy she was placing into it already.

"Here you go," Maya beamed, holding out a spoonful of broth to Kurama's lips.

In response, Kurama held his hair back as he leaned forward and opened his mouth, allowing the spoon entry so he could taste the liquid. He closed his eyes and swallowed, focusing his attention solely on his taste buds. A rush of flavor coated his tongue with a euphoric combination of chicken and herbs. Whatever it was she was making, he wanted more. Kurama opened his eyes and righted himself with a smile. "That was really good," Kurama told her, his stomach growling for another spoonful.

Maya just stared at him, her pupils dilated and her breath shallow. Her lip was caught between her teeth and her cheeks were painted a rosy hue. From her hands the cookbook fell, the sound startling her back into reality. An apology tumbled from her lips as Maya quickly swooped down and picked up the book. Her cheeks darkened from embarrassment, but she chose to quickly cover it up by returning her attention to her pot and stirring.

"So what are you making," Kurama inquired, finding it strange that she was going to such lengths for just lunch.

"Soup," Maya stammered, "to go with our sandwiches. I'm making a lot so that when you come back you can eat."

"That's very thoughtful of you, thank you." Kurama flashed Maya a smile and sat down at the table next to Botan, giving in to his curiosity.

The minute his rear touched the red cushion on his chosen chair, Botan was doing something with his ear. Kurama did nothing to protest her sudden invasion of his space, allowing her to work an earring through the hole in his earlobe. She held his hair away with the back of her hand as she examined her work, leaning forward so she could see how it sat from the side. Kurama shivered when her breath fanned over his neck, a sensation he rarely allowed or enjoyed. No urge to shove her away shot up his spine, just the curiosity born from what she was doing.

"Is it comfortable," Botan asked, leaning back so she could see Kurama's eyes when he answered.

"Yes, but what is it for?" Kurama waited patiently for Botan to finish tapping the small loop she placed in his ear, jerking very slightly each time she did so due to the charge and shift of energy she sent through it.

"It's a tracker," Botan replied absentmindedly. She dropped her hand from his hair and took in his appearance with a trained eye. She tried to keep the hoop as masculine and nondescript as possible, and as far as anyone else was concerned it was a simple gold loop through his ear. But Botan wasn't satisfied with it, the charms and seals that she wove into the gold were to easily seen and someone with even the slightest awareness would be able to tell that the piece of jewelry wasn't normal.

Kurama fought back a chuckle when an adorable pout took hold of Botan's face. He could tell she was displeased with her work, but did nothing to help solve the problem simply for the fact that he enjoyed her expression. He rested his head in his hand, allowing for Botan to continue tinkering away at the ring in his ear while he scanned everything else on the table. He had to fight with his eyes in order to skim over the gems so he could discover everything else she had been doing for the better part of the morning and afternoon.

As expected, there were his and Botan's masks, designed to look like black fox faces. Red and gold accents traced around and under the eyes and black lace, fashioned to look like roses, were grafted around the plastic of the mask. Over where the third eye chakra would sit, right before the mask ended, there was a bhindi like ornament made of emerald and framed with gold leaf. From the one that Kurama assumed was Botan's, black and red ribbons were tied into little bows at the base of the ears, the edges lightly beaded with tiny pearl-like spheres. The ends of the bows hung low, and when held to her face, they would graze against Botan's neck and shoulders.

Near the masks, Kurama spotted a black velvet and lace choker with a large golden hoop that hung from the front. Around it little charms hung and right above where the loop joined the fabric was a large translucent heart shaped quartz that shone blue in the lighting. Inside it, Kurama could see the thermotropic liquid crystal used in mood rings. Next to the choker, a matching leash rested with a velvet grip. Kurama found himself smirking at the item, one of his old kinks coming to mind. But how does Botan know about it, Kurama pondered.

"Done," Botan announced happily, leaning back in her seat to observe her work.

Now that he had her attention Kurama lifted the leash into his hands, giving Botan a questioning glance on top of his decidedly wicked grin. As expected, Botan's face jumped from its normal hue to a flaming red as she tried desperately to form a response. "I take it this bit of information was in my file, am I correct?"

"Among other things," Botan stuttered, refusing to meet Kurama's gaze.

Kurama decided to take pity on Botan, even though he was thoroughly enjoying her reaction. He put the leash down and leaned back in his seat. His mirth melted from his face, the need to discuss and plan for later that night taking the forefront of his thoughts. "Outside of what you've seen at the shop, how much do you know about fetishes?"

Botan waited to respond, searching her memories and avoiding others in hopes of giving Kurama an accurate answer. She wasn't surprised to discover how little she knew, but she hoped that it wouldn't be too much of a problem given their time constraints. "I know of some, but not much. It never really interested me," Botan admitted finally.

"Alright…tell me what you know about sadomasochism, since that's what will be heaviest at the masquerade," Kurama sighed, already able to deduce what she'd say from her first answer.

"That people get off on hurting and being hurt," Botan cringed, curling up in her seat as if to protect herself from that reality. …How can anyone enjoy that? Botan thought darkly. She peeked through her lashes at Kurama, finding it hard to believe that S&M was one of Kurama's favorite kinks back in the day.

"In the most basic of descriptions, that is correct," Kurama began, proven right in his assumptions. "It's a power trip, to be able to control someone so completely and have them bend to your will."

"Is that why you liked it?" Botan was as shocked as Kurama to hear her own words. She had only meant to think them, but they had slipped passed her lips without her consent.

"…Yes," Kurama confessed, watching Botan's reactions closely.

"Oh." Botan retreated further into herself and Kurama was hurt to see her withdraw herself from him. But he did nothing to stop her. This was a fact that she was going to have to deal with; there was going to be a part of him that is going to enjoy the party and that same part will most likely demand her submission, even if it was all going to be an act.

"Will you be okay playing the role of Sub? Even though it will all be pretend, I can't stop you from feeling…degraded for at least part of the night." Kurama knew there was nothing that could be done to change their roles, but he needed to hear her say it from her own lips that she would be okay.

"People like that?" Botan couldn't understand it, the need to be dominated, unable to say 'no' for the sake of their masters.

"Yes, there are people who like being controlled. But being a Sub doesn't rob you of all control; a proper sadomasochistic coupling has a series of rules and agreements to keep things from becoming too much for them."

"Like what?"

"Like a safe word. If the Sub says whatever the word is, the Dom has to stop, whether they want to or not," Kurama explained in hopes of helping Botan through her mounting fears.

"What was yours?" Botan found herself asking, relaxing slightly with the knowledge that she wouldn't be completely powerless in their act.

Kurama flinched at her question, wishing that she'd never spoken it even though he knew it was coming. Regret filled him as he remembered how vicious he was, even to those he would claim as his 'lovers.' But no matter how much he wished it, he could never erase his past. He couldn't go back and make it any less shameful. "If they wanted me to, I would make them bark and beg for me to stop like a dog."

Kurama couldn't meet Botan's horror filled gaze, his heart seizing as it filled the entirety of their shared abode. Behind him, Kurama could hear a spoon clatter onto the ground, meaning Maya had been listening in.

"If I got scared, would you make me bark?" Botan wanted to cower away from her companion so desperately, but she refused to allow herself to do so. This was Kurama; she had read his file so she always knew of his darker habits. But to hear him say it made it all real for her. She never realized how much she anglicized Kurama and his past, believing that he wasn't as bad as everyone made his demon counterpart out to be. But here he was, proving everything said about him right.

"Never," Kurama insisted, hurt that Botan would even ask such a thing. He cared about her and would never subject her to such humiliation.

"But what if…what if we had to…join in? What would you make me do, and what if I don't want to do it?" Botan gulped, suddenly regretting taking the role as Kurama's 'date.'

Seeing the validation in Botan's words, Kurama rose from his seat and knelt in front of Botan. He waited till her eyes met his before he could answer her. "If that were to happen, which it won't if I can help it, then all you'll have to do is tell me so." Kurama placed a comforting hand on her knee while the other reached up to caress her cheek. He hated that Botan was scared, it made him feel helpless and filled him with doubt. Would he be able to protect her? Would he be able to make the experience any less terrifying? She was jumping from no knowledge right into the middle of the most extreme of kinks with little preparation to go on.

"But won't that –"

"It won't matter," Kurama interrupted, his voice thick with the need to sooth her. "If anything scares you, anything at all, just tell me and I'll make it go away," Kurama promised. Seeing that she needed it, Kurama rose from his knees and pull Botan into a soothing embrace. She shook in his hold, her fingers clutching at the fabric over his chest. She was more scared then she let on, and Kurama only hoped that she would be alright.

Evening came all to soon for the residents of apartment 513, filling them all with dread as old and new fears sprung up within them.

Currently, Kurama was fidgeting with his watch, familiarizing himself with the settings as he waited for Botan to emerge from her room. The watch was a lot like the demon seeking compass that came with the detective items Botan would pop up with, but she had added a few extra functions to it. Like the earring he wore, Botan wore a matching hoop through her own ear that could be tracked through his watch. That way, should they ever get separated for whatever reason; they could find each other no matter where they were.

"You look amazing Kurama-kun," Maya cooed, entering the living room in a purple silk night gown.

Kurama didn't respond to her, already knowing that statement to be fact and not an opinion. The black leather pants he wore lacked the traditional stitching and instead was laced up the sides with leather chords and the occasional buckle to cinch the material and hold it in place. It left little to the imagination, but the two belts that hung from his waist blocked the eye from finding well hidden prize. Around his torso he wore a matching sleeveless black leather jerkin with a few of the top buckles across the front undone to expose a white lace up shirt that was mostly undone as well. The sleeves were long and meant to be fairly loose, as per the style, but his arms filled the fabric almost snugly. Knee high boots adorned his feet with shining metal clasps along the sides, matching the pants to a point where one could hardly tell where the two were separated; unless one took the time to look, like Maya was.

Kurama ran his fingers through his hair somewhat agitatedly; his eyes darting to his watch and back to the hall Botan was supposed to emerge from. For as complicated as the dress looked, it was designed to come on and off quickly and easily, so Kurama knew that Botan was stalling. He didn't want to rush her, but at the same time he didn't like being late. Late arrivals drew attention and that's the last thing they needed. He didn't even know how they were getting to the masquerade.

"Maybe she's having second thoughts?" Maya sounded too hopeful for Kurama's liking, but he brought no attention to this fact.

"I'm going to go check on her," Kurama announced, finding Maya's statement to be a plausible assumption. He stalked over to the hall and made his way to Botan's door. He waited then, listening for any sign of trouble or rustling of clothing, but he heard nothing. "Botan, are you alright?"

"No," came her voice in response.

"Can I come in?" Kurama already had his hand on the knob and only asked out of courtesy, even if she said 'no' he would enter anyway. They were on a time limit and they needed to leave.

"It's open," Botan answered. He did just that, turning the knob and opening the door to her room.

Immediately across from the door was a bed that was a little larger than a king size with a headboard made of a white material fashioned to look like a blooming peony, each petal ranging in transparency. The sheets of the bed were a pale pink and the comforter was thick and a deeper shade of magenta. In a shade slightly darker, a floral pattern was embroidered into the linens and beading was sown into the edges. On either side of the monstrous bed were nightstands made of the same material as the headboard. At the foot of the bed was a matching trunk with the lid thrown open to reveal several folds of fabrics and a few boxes with random knick-knacks, some of which Kurama had seen on the table earlier that day. On the wall above the bed was an ornate dream catcher with large feathers hanging from its center.

To Kurama's left was a door that led to the bathroom and next to that was another door that was slightly ajar, leading into a walk in closet. Against the corner and at an angle to his righ was a tall dresser with a decent sized television on top of it. Next to it was a vanity table with many drawers and a mirror that was devised to look like a flower bud framed by metal vines and leaves in an intricate design. Scattered all along the vanity were various hair clips, make ups, and bottles of lotions and perfumes. Some were open and used, while others were just there.

Kurama found Botan sitting at the vanity's stool, just staring at her reflection with frightful eyes. Her gloved hands gripped the sides of the stool so tightly that her knuckles could be seen through the thin material.

"Botan, are you ready to go?" All urgency was chased from Kurama's mind as his heart sang with the need to comfort Botan's nerves.

"No," she whimpered.

"But we have to," Kurama added, approaching her and placing a palm against her bare shoulder.

"I know." Botan allowed Kurama to pry her fingers from the bench and help her onto her feet. "Do I look okay?"

"Breath taking," Kurama breathed, giving her the complete truth.

A strapless black leather and backless corset hugged Botan's curves almost impossibly tight, with red ribbons to lace across her back to hold it in place. The skirt of the dress was short, flirting with the indecent in the front, growing in length as it went around to the back before dragging against the floor. Thigh high black nylons adorned her legs, accented by lace along the edges. Matching gloves covered her arms, stopping above her elbows. She wore her collar like choker, the heart at the center glaring dark gray, giving visual proof of her anxiety. Around her wrists were a couple bangles, hiding the plainness of her watch-like compass. She wore the concentration ring around her finger for just in case, as well as a few other rings to distract from it.

On her face was very light make up consisting of a pale pink lip gloss, faint purple eye shadow and black eyeliner. Her lashes were thick enough as it was so she didn't find the need to put on mascara. She also made the choice to leave her hair loose, figuring that with the mask it would be for the best.

"I hope you don't mind the changes," Botan continued, her face flushing at how intently Kurama was looking at her. "The back was bothering me so I got rid of it."

"I don't mind," Kurama admitted with a secretive smile. He held Botan steady as she slipped on her Mary-Janes before securing an arm around hers and escorting her out of her room.

The minute they exited into the living room of the apartment, Maya was there to intercept Kurama and give him a 'good-bye hug.' Her eyes glared daggers at the oblivious Botan, who was busy grabbing the swiped invitations and placing the communicator into the front of her corset. Her gaze darkened even more when Maya noticed Kurama's gaze.

"Don't you have a purse for that?" Maya demanded, trying to maintain a pleasant voice even as her jealousy painted her vision. Her eyes gestured to the small bag that was hanging from Botan's shoulder from a chain in hopes that Botan would take the hint and stop using her 'country pocket.'

"I won't know if someone's calling me then since I set it to vibrate," Botan argued. No one has ever complained before about where she hid her communicator.

"It's fine where it is," Kurama interjected, steering Botan to the exit. "Make sure to lock up," Kurama called over his shoulder before closing the door behind him.

Botan took the lead then, guiding Kurama down the elevator and towards the warehouse Kurama had been curious about for the past few days. She shuffled in her bag for a moment once they reached the door, searching for the key to the demonic lock that sealed the door shut. Once found, she led Kurama inside and flicked the switch that controled the lights.

Kurama could have drooled. Even though he had not acquired the same tastes as most ningen and he found most of their coveted items dull and boring, he had gained a love of fast vehicles. In front of him was a sleek red convertible sports car. With the top down, Kurama had a perfect view of the tanned leather interior. Next to it, were three custom-made motorcycles, one black, one red and the other one was silver. Farther back was a giant of a green SUV that would put a hummer to shame in both size and space. A maroon four door truck was a little ways beyond that with a barely covered Jet Ski resting in the bed. There was a decent sized speed boat resting on a dolly that was attached to the truck, looking brand new.

"Who do these belong to?" Kurama looked over his shoulder in hopes of an answer, but instead he saw Botan walking away towards the other half of the warehouse towards what looked to be a workshop.

"Those are mine," Botan answered without much thought, pulling open a drawer and pulling out a pair of keys.

"Come again?"

"I bought them a while back, thinking that we may need them in the near future," Botan explained, tossing Kurama the keys before sliding into the convertible. She adjusted her skirt and chucked her purse into the backseat with little thought. She then pressed a button near where the radio was and a small screen was revealed by an electronic panel. The screen came to life a moment later, revealing it to be a GPS system that Botan was inserting the address into.

Kurama blinked several times dumbfounded by the fact that Botan, his Botan, had been holding out on him. There was something wrong about that, on so many levels that Kurama almost thought it wasn't funny. He laughed to himself regardless before claiming the driver's seat and adjusting everything to his liking. He then started the car, opened the garage and drove out.

"Try to go easy on her, I just replaced the engine so she might a little temperamental," Botan advised.

"Was something wrong with it?" It would make sense, how else would Botan be able to afford such a thing.

"No, it just needed a faster engine to accommodate all the other additions I added to it." Botan smiled.

"Hang on, you sound as if you did it all yourself." Kurama found that hard to believe, but at the same time…

"Of course I did, who else would imbue it with all the charms and glamours," Botan huffed. She turned in her seat to glare at Kurama, daring him to comment on her abilities as a mechanic.

"I just never pegged you for a car junky," Kurama taunted, glancing at her from the corner of his eye.

"Everyone's gotta have a hobby; mine are making gadgets and other tools that can be used in cases," Botan informed, relaxing into her seat.

"You made all of them? The demon compass? The concentration ring," Kurama was surprised to see her nod at each.

"Made them all by myself," Botan bragged happily, allowing for the conversation to distract her from the upcoming event.

"Impressive."

The rest of the ride was silent and uneventful and all attempts at conversation died down soon after they started. Both felt the weight of their mission increasing with each passing mile until the imposing mansion came into view. Their stomachs were twisted into knots, both for not so entirely different reasons.

Kurama reached over to Botan and placed a soothing hand over Botan's fists, her nervousness seeping into his limbs to a point of numbing terror. He parked the car as far as he could from the mansion, sensing that the long walk to the mansion would do them both good.

"We're here." Kurama announced, breaking the silence between them.

"I wish we weren't," Botan tagged on, waiting patiently for Kurama to exit the car and come around to her side. He opened the door for her and held his arm out for her to take. But unlike all other times, his impeccable manners did nothing to soothe her. She accepted the offered appendage gratefully however, her mind resolute to accomplish her mission. She was quick to dawn on her mask then, wishing to hide her face from all who would look at her.

Kurama took the time to do the same before taking the first few steps forward before stalling. He then dropped his arm from hers before turning to face her completely. Even with the mask he could see her terror, and he knew without a shadow of a doubt that others would see it too. "I want you to stay close to me at all times," Kurama began, placing his hands on her shoulders and looking her straight in the eye.

"You don't have to tell me twice," Botan smiled nervously.

"Just remember that we're pretending to be lovers, so don't panic if I hold you or touch you in a way you're not used to," Kurama continued, pulling her close enough to secure the leash to the gold hoop hanging from her neck. At first he was hesitant to use it, but seeing her now, with her beauty and obvious naïveté, it was more for her protection than to put on a show. He wouldd be a fool to leave her unattended or without any obvious claim. It would be for the best for everyone to know without a shadow of a doubt that she belonged to him.

Botan didn't question Kurama's need to leash her, finding the chain to be a useful tether to his side should anything happen. She didn't want to lose him, no matter what. It's almost like I'm leashing him…as if that would ever happen. The two continued on their way after that, arm in arm and with Kurama setting the pace at a confident stride.

"Tell me again why we have to wear these silly costumes?" Botan pressed herself closer to Kurama's side as she spoke, needing to feel safe through contact and conversation.

"It's mainly to keep up appearances. Most of the people here don't want anyone to know about their kinks, so they tell everyone their going to a renaissance themed masquerade instead. Once inside they'll probably shed their clothing to partake in the fun." Kurama felt strange. He should feel at least a little excited to be part of something he used to love in his past, but all he felt was dread and the wish that he had time to properly prepare Botan for what was to come. But Kurama didn't want to delve into his own mind to figure out what kind of preparation he wanted to subject her to.

Closer to the manor, more and more people were milling about in various styles of attire while maintaining the theme. Some were conversing in a surprisingly normal fashion, swapping stories from their lives as if they were at any other get together while others, much to Botan's chagrin, were locked in passionate embraces and sharing kisses that would make any watcher swoon at the sight. In front of the door, two demons in shoddy disguises stood guard and between them was an angel of a woman.

Her long black hair cascaded down her back, framing her face in a style that was more common amongst old Japanese noblewomen and princesses. Her face had little make up and around her body was a simple white gown with long billowy sleeves. A gold chord circled her waist, the ends braiding together and following along the length of the skirt until it barely grazed the ground. She wore no mask to hide her face, for she was the party's hostess. Around her neck was a large but simple silver locket, one that looked old and worn even from a distance.

Upon seeing the woman's face, Botan paled and began to shake violently. She took several terrified steps backwards, tugging at the leash without even realizing. Her breath became short and labored and her heart began beat painfully within her chest, as if it were trying to break free of her ribcage. Tears began to bead up within the corners of her eyes and her legs could no longer support her weight. She would have fallen if a pair of strong arms hadn't wrapped around her, holding her steady even as she struggled to be free and run.

Kurama was quick to pull Botan behind the nearby shrubbery, hiding her from view before anyone had the chance to notice what was going on. Once safe, he pulled the still struggling Botan onto his lap before he began rocking back and forth in hopes of calming her. She stilled eventually, murmuring in an old dialect of Japanese that he had difficulty understanding her. It had been so long since he used it so all he could understand was 'anyone but her…Inari-Ookami, please don't let her find me. Anyone but her…'

Botan suddenly pitched to the side, throwing her body as far away from Kurama in time to empty the contents of her stomach onto the manicured lawn beneath her fingers. She cried as she wretched, the panic attack rocking through her limbs violently and threatening to drop her into her own bile. Kurama was there to hold her up, keeping her hair out of her face as she dry heaved even at the risk of getting sullied by her vomit.

Kurama struggled to maintain himself, focusing entirely on Botan. Once he was sure Botan was done, but not really caring either way, Kurama pulled Botan's back flush against his stomach. He then held her securely in place and took deep and even breaths, hoping to coax Botan's breathing to match his. Her body convulsed against his hold, but only once before she allowed himself to be pacified by his actions.

Kurama sighed in relief before resting his face against her neck, needing more skin on skin contact for his own sake as compared to her. In all his years of knowing her, and all that they've been through, he's never seen Botan so scared. Until now, he thought she had never known true fear and he would have been happy to keep it that way, but after what happened moments ago, that fact that he knew so little about her came back at him with a sharp jab to his heart. Who was that woman? Why did Botan react to her so violently? He needed to know the answers to those questions, now.

"Who is she," Kurama questioned, turning Botan on his lap so she could face him.

"A shikigami," Botan answered plainly, retreating into herself and grafting a mask of neutrality onto her face. She refused to look at Kurama, facing the mess she'd made on the ground barely a few feet away. Her body was still wracked with violent shivers, and her fingers clutched tightly at Kurama's shoulders as if to steady herself. But her eyes had become clouded and distant, as if she were no longer present within herself.

At first, Kurama thought she had left her human body and had gone somewhere far away from him and the mansion they hid by, but then she'd blink or take deep shaky breaths. He waited for further elaboration but upon realizing that he'd be receiving none he pressed onwards. "She's more then that, tell me who she is."

"Please Kurama," she begged, finally facing him. "We need to find the soul gems so we can leave."

"Why won't you tell me?" It had been a long time since he felt fear, but there it was, bubbling up within his voice and filling him with the need to flee.

"She's not important," Botan snapped.

"Not important," Kurama repeated darkly. "You just had a panic attack from just looking at her. Obviously, she's important. Now tell me the truth; who is she?"

"Even I'm entitled to the occasional dark secret. I don't force you to admit to yours, don't you dare force me of mine," Botan hissed, struggling to remove herself from Kurama's hold, only to have him tighten his grip around her.

"Fine," Kurama relented. "Go wait in the car, I'll rejoin with you when I have the two fragments," Kurama commanded, lifting Botan onto her feet as he stood.

"What? No," Botan argued, shock coupled with panic evident in her eyes. "You can't find them on your own and I'm not-"

"Might I remind you of your attack," Kurama interrupted, angry with Botan's evasiveness. How could he trust her at his back if she kept so many secrets from him, secrets that could mean life or death.

"I was just surprised by her, I swear it won't happen again," Botan vowed, wrapping her arms around Kurama's bicep in order to keep him in place.

"How can you be so sure?" Kurama fought the desire to give in to her wishes, the need to keep her safe overriding all other thoughts.

"I'll be fine as long as I'm with you, just don't leave me."

"Promise to tell me when you're scared," Kurama caved, pulling Botan into an embrace. He took several lungfuls of Botan's natural scent of paradise, allowing it to ease his mind, if only a little. He knew that he needed her, but he truly wished that he didn't. Suddenly he doubted he could keep her safe.

They chose to wait several moments longer, content within each other's arms before reattempting entry. Fortunately, the hostess had left for one reason or another, allowing for Botan to slip in without having to get close to the woman that sent her into an attack. But Botan was still on edge, staying as close to Kurama as humanly possible in hopes that the woman wouldn't notice her against him.

Once inside, Botan realized that she wasn't ready at all for this mission. All around her, screams and sounds of ecstasy drowned out the faint music that played within the home. Against the walls various devices were set up to hold people in complete submission, shackling their arms and legs and holding them pinned. Men and women alike were bound, most completely nude and enjoying the attention of their Dom's and whomever was allowed to join them. Some were being whipped, others shocked, all the tortures varied from couple to couple but all wore expressions of euphoria.

Botan blanched when she saw a couple having intercourse, right in the middle of the foyer for all to see. No one minded, instead people enjoyed the show provided them before going off to do the same. She pressed herself more firmly against Kurama's side in hopes of making herself smaller, wanting so desperately to be safe at home. She looked up at Kurama and was appalled to see that he was completely unfazed by what was happening around him, almost as if he were in his own element.

"Let's get you something to eat, you need to keep your energy about you," Kurama suggested, guiding her away from the couple on the floor in front of them and towards the scent of food.

"Shouldn't we be looking for the fragments?" Botan looked up at Kurama with a questioning glance, silently pleading for him to make the night go by faster so she could curl up in her own bed and push everything from this night behind her.

"We should wait till the party picks up, that way they won't notice anything going on." Kurama smiled down at Botan sympathetically, leading her into the dinning room with sure steps.

"It gets worse," Botan squeaked.

"Much worse," Kurama nodded, lifting Botan over the bodies that writhed on the floor between them and the buffet. He then sat her down at one of the tables nearest the foods before making her a plate. Kurama was careful with what he selected; making sure that nothing he gave her had been altered in any way or had been used for any food fetishes. Because of this, the plate consisted of mainly fruits and uncooked vegetables. He threw on a couple sandwiches, but he had to triple check them to be completely sure.

"Thank you," Botan beamed as she accepted the plate Kurama made for her. She wasn't all that hungry especially with all that was going on around her chasing away whatever remained of her appetite, but she made the effort to eat. She didn't want to faint in the middle of their robbery.

Kurama scanned his surroundings as she ate, maintining physical contact with her at all times as he did so. There were only a few faces of interest, all of which had honed in on Botan's presence and were more than happy to stare. Kurama could see the hunger in their eyes and part of him regretted not swapping his date for the night. Maya, regardless of how adorable she looked, was plain and easily missed in a crowd. Whereas Botan, even without her blue hair, stood out amongst the glorified masses. Her innocence was surpassed only by her mystery and already Kurama could hear people whispering about the blue haired pixie under his arm.

Oblivious to the eyes on her, Botan hummed happily to the music while munching on a carrot. From where Kurama sat her, Botan could now hear the music that was playing and it was a happy and lively tune that seemed so out of place. Regardless, Botan enjoyed it, dancing in her seat.

"Botan," Kurama groaned, wishing Botan wasn't so ignorant of how...delicious she looked, wiggling around with something in her mouth.

Botan paused and turned to face him, a strawberry caught between her lips. She hummed curiously, unsure why Kurama spoke her name. The two locked gazes for a moment and Botan finished her strawberry. "What? Did I do something wrong?"

"Darlin, I don't think you could ever do something wrong," a voice answered in Kurama's stead. The man that approached them had his jaw length brunette hair styled in a roguish fashion, falling about his head as if tossled from a night of sex. His eyes were a deep honey hazel and leered down at Botan as if she a piece of meat and he was a starving man. He wore tight black leather pants, matching boots, a dark purple poet's shirt and around his neck hung dog tags proclaiming his name in english.

"Um...thank you," Botan stammered, scooting closer to Kurama so he could wrap his arm more securly around her waist.

"Can I help you?" Kurama's words were laced with warning.

"You can't, but your Sub can, might if I borrow her for a bit?" The man looked to Kurama expectantly, as if his question wasn't out of the ordinary at all.

"Yes, I do mind," Kurama hissed, pulling Botan so close she was practically on his lap before nuzzling her neck. His piercing emeralds did not leave the man as he did this, silently staking his claim on Botan and daring the man to continue in his quest for her attentions. "I'm sorry to say, but I'm a bit greedy and don't want to share."

Botan giggled lightly, the rush of Kurama's breath against her neck tickling her nerves. Obviously pleased by her reaction, Kurama lightly nipped at the skin there. Kurama didn't stop until the man stormed away in a huff, but he did nothing to replace the distance between them.

"Sorry," Kurama murmured, low enough so only Botan would hear.

"It's okay," Botan blushed, embarrassed by her reaction to Kurama's touch.

Kurama waited till she finished her plate before speaking again, helping her up as he did so. "There's a ballroom upstairs," Kurama informed her as he set the plate to the side. "Would you like to dance?"

"I... I'd love too," Botan answered, a radiant smile blooming on her face as she did so. No one has ever asked her to dance before.

Kurama grinned, pleased that he could make her day given their current circumstances. He offered Botan his arm before guiding her out of the dinning room and towards the grand staircase. He kept her away from the walls as they made there way, avoiding the grabby hands that reached out for Botan to join in. A few well placed glares would chase the hands away, but he wanted to avoid an incident all together. Leading her up the stairs, Kurama rested his hand dangerously low on Botan's back and shot a dangerous look over his shoulder, sending the couple that had been following them running.

The music that played in the ballroom had a slow and sultry beat that could be felt within their very cores. It pulsed through them and guided them into a downward spiral of lust and arousal. The heady scent of musk and incence filled the air, wafting in through their noses and filling their lungs and stomachs with warmth. Bodies in various states of dress writhed against on another, flowing with the music as if guided by invisible strings.

Botan slowed when she saw the dancers, unable to allow herself to continue any farther. She knew very little about dancing, and she highly doubted she could move in such provocative ways. She turned to Kurama with an apology already forming on her lips. Dancing sounded like a good idea at the time, but she couldn't do it.

Kurama silenced her before she could say a word, placing his index finger along her lips. He knew what she was going to say, but they needed to blend in, at least for now. Kurama dropped his hand from her face and led her onto the dancefloor before pressing himself against her back.

"Just trust me," he whispered into Botan's ear, sending chills of excitement down her back.

Botan nodded, letting Kurama know that she did trust him, even then. Botan gasped when Kurama's hand rested low on her hip and pulled her closer while his other guided her arm around his neck. Slowly, his fingers traced down her arm, leaving a trail of goosebumps in their wake. He then started to move to the slow rhythme that played around them, guiding her body to do the same.

Gripping her hips, Kurama pulled her flush against him, needing to feel her. The way her scent mixed with the musk of the room. The way she trusted him so completely. The way her body undulated against his. Everything she did set his body ablaze with want, awakening desires within him that he could only pray would be fulfilled. His hands trailed lower along her thighs, tracing the raised edges of her glamoured scars sultrily*.

Botan moaned and bit her lip in delight, Kurama's caress making her blood boil with want. She closed her eyes and surrendered herself completely to his touch, letting him guide her in their sensual dance. She lost all awareness to what was around her, trusting Kurama completely and losing herself in the safety of his arms.

The next thing she knew, Botan's back was pressed to the wall and Kurama's leg was wedged between hers. She gasped and jerked upwards against him, pressing her body more firmly against Kurama's. His arms wrapped around her waist and back, holding her in place as Kurama bit and licked at her neck.

"Just relax," Kurama warned, his tone holding a familiar business like quality.

Botan instantly went lax, wrapping her arms around Kurama's shoulders and dropping her head to the side to allow for better access.

Kurama purred and gave her another nip in aproval, trailing kisses up her neck and jawline until he reached Botan's ear. "Close your eyes," he breathed, unwinding one of his arms from around Botan's torso and bracing his hand against the wall near Botan's head.

Botan panted wantonly under Kurama's minstrations, allowing her eyes to slip shut as a flash of white trailed across her vision. "Thank you."

"Any time," Kurama offered, leaning back so he could look Botan in the eye. He licked his lips hungrily at her flushed cheeks and lust darkened eyes. Were they anywhere else, or not on a mission, Kurama would have been more than happy to sate her. But now was not the time, no matter how much the feeling was mutual.

"Hey gorgeous," a familiar voice called in greeting.

"Not him again," Botan groaned into Kurama's shoulder. She peeked up and instantly regretted it, ducking her face gainst Kurama's neck in time to hide the extreme blush that trailed up her neck and painted her face crimson.

Kurama turned to glare at the man, who now stood naked with his erection standing proud for all to see. There was a faint flush to his cheeks and his pupils were hugely dilated. Looks like the party's starting to pick up, Kurama thought viciously. He turned to face the man completely, keeping Botan safely tucked away behind him. A satisfied smirk tugged at his lips when Botan's arms wrapped around his chest to keep him close. He rested one of his hands onto them, lacing his fingers through hers.

"Need something?" Kurama's tone dipped into a deep baritone that sent a chill down Botan's spine, making her press more firmly against Kurama's back. That was a voice only reserved for his enemies, and they were all dead. Botan didn't want for that fate to fall upon the man that aproached them, regardless of how annoying he was and how uncomfortable he made her feel.

"Yeah, her."

Botan shifted behind Kurama nervously at the man's words, sparking something within Kurama that he hadn't felt in over a millenia; the need to prove he was the better and stronger male. Quick as a flash, Kurama's hand gripped the man's neck and lifted him into the air as if he weighed nothing.

"Come again," Kurama commanded darkly.

The man said nothing, wilting under Kurama's gaze before he was dropped into a heap on the floor. Kurama watched as the man ran away, his metaphorical tail tucked between his legs. Kurama fought down the urge to give chase and put an end to the man's existence, his pride as an alpha male still at unease.

"Kurama?"

"Sorry," Kurama apologised, turning in her hold so he could look down into Botan's deep amathysts. "Why don't we go have a seat?"

That was maybe an hour ago, and Kurama was still seething from the event. He had apologised to her repeatedly since, even though Botan had insisted that everything was all right. Botan didn't mind what had happened at all, she liked the fact that Kurama was protective of her. It made her feel safe and cared for, even if a lot of it was an act. Even now there were those that still watched Botan out of the corner of their eyes, leering down at her hungrily, making her grateful to Kurama's imposing presence.

Currently, the two were lounging together on top of large velvet cushions in a dark corner off to the side. That way no one would approach them anymore since, no matter how small and discreet Botan tried to be, she lured the party goers like a magnet. Most of the people were surprisingly nice, sensing that she was a "virgin" to these kinds of events and offering her advise to keep her sex life enjoyable. Some of the Subs even gave her their numbers, in case Botan wanted someone to talk to. But others, the ones that Kurama promised a painful death to, tried to lure her away from Kurama's safety in hopes of taking advantage.

But even with everything that had happened the rest of the night progressed uneventfully, but it did get worse like Kurama had predicted. A little less than an hour after Botan and Kurama had arrived, drugs and harder liquor was introduced into the mix and the mass of writhing bodies had increased, which explained why the man behaved the way he did. Kurama had kept Botan away from it all, scaring away potential threats away with well placed words and glares. But other than the occasional idiot that would dare try to take Botan away from Kurama, nothing much happened.

Truth be told, it really wasn't as bad as Botan thought it would be, once she got over the fact that everyone was screwing around her. As long as she avoided the heavier torture devices, which Kurama insisted weren't used for anything but sex play, Botan was fine. She was ashamed to admit it, but she was even a little turned on by some of the shows presented to her.

Botan snuggled against Kurama's chest, making herself seem smaller when a flash of white amongst all the black entered her vision. The hostess had been popping up more and more along her peripherals, filling Botan with apprehension when the thought of being recognized formed.

She knew now that, that was the reason behind Kurama pinning her to the wall and she was entirely grateful for it. Both of them remained vigilant in their lookout for the hostess so that Kurama could orchestrate various ways to blend themselves in, all of which Botan really enjoyed, since she just reeked of innocence and that was like a siren's song to all present, even Kurama. He had yet to touch her anywhere inappropriate, much to Botan's chagrin, but he flirted with being dangerously close, teasing her and filling Botan with want.

Kurama's hands had found their way to Botan's inner thighs, the fingers tracing lazy designs over her flesh as they traveled upwards under her skirt. Botan couldn't stop herself from arching and bucking her hips in order to get his fingers where she really wanted them to be. In response, Kurama would nuzzle and nip at her neck and jaw line. He did not touch her though, instead, Kurama grazed his fingers around her nether regions in favor or teasing her lower abdomen. A frustrated whine made its way beyond Botan's lips, embarrassing her with its needy pitch.

"Ready to go," Kurama asked, deciding that now would be the best time to find the soul fragments of their friends.

Instead of answering vocally, for Botan didn't really trust her voice right now, she nodded. Kurama then lifted her into the cradle of his arms and started towards the stairs, looking for all intents and purposes as if he were going to join in the fun going on in the bedrooms. Both wore devilish grins and Botan was giggling adorably, but the moment they turned the corner and were out of sight, they were all business.

Once her feet were on the floor, Botan closed her eyes and opened her deeper senses, searching for the pull of a soul. There was a moment of frigidness, her body becoming numb with cold before she felt a pleasant warmth that filled her heart. Black filled her vision, but there was no wickedness within it. She reached out towards the deepest darkness, searching for the source of the welcoming warmth. Eyes of the deepest blood ruby and small but powerful hands greeted her, forming a connection within her and showing her the way.

"This way," Botan directed, taking the lead and jogging down the hallway towards side stairway that led towards the third floor.

Once midway, Kurama leapt the rest of the way, working the seals that hovered within the entryway. He traced the edges with his index and middle finger, erasing it and sucking the energy into himself before expelling it through his feet upon landing. Neither took the time to be impressed and Botan resumed her place at the lead right to a plain wall. Without loosing her momentum, she jumped and delivered a mighty kick, dropping the face wall onto the ground. Plants shot up from beneath the carpets, cushioning the fall to a barely audible 'thump.' Without a word to one another, the two continued, leaving the plants to replace the wall in its proper position.

Kurama and Botan kept knocking down obstacles and eradicating seals with remarkable precision, re-erecting them as they passed to decrease the likelihood of being discovered prematurely, both completely in sync with the other.

In record time, the two found themselves in front of a large door that pulsated with raw power, as if the door itself was alive. All along it charms, seals, and codes were grafted in place, constantly moving about the living metal of the door. There would be no touching the door, for if one did, their very lives would be sucked into it, charging it with more energy like a battery.

"The energy stops near the air ducts," Botan informed, finding the vent with ease.

"I can't fit through there," Kurama explained, leering at the metal and cursing his human form. Were he still completely a demon, he could claim his smaller fox form and he would be fine, but his human body was not capable of such a transformation.

"I can," Botan assured, tugging at the skirt of her dress until it came loose. She shimmied out of it and kicked it to the side, revealing a pair of short shorts that Kurama found very eye catching. "I should be able to open the door from the inside, these type of doors only work one way."

Kurama just nodded, placing himself under the vent and summoning his whip. He lashed at the rim, carful to not destroy it so that they could leave minimal evidence of their presence. He caught it before it had a chance to make a sound and leaned it against the nearby wall. Kurama then knelt, his hands cupped in front of him so Botan could use him as a catapult into the ventilation shaft. She didn't need any further explanation, bracing her foot against his hands and jumping in time to give herself extra lift.

Kurama waited from below with baited breath, worried for the sake of his partner in crime. But his worries were ill founded. Within seconds Botan had kicked the door open, looking only a little worse for wear. Not that he minded. One of her gloves and the bottom half of her corset had vanished, leaving the skin an angry red and the edges of what remained slightly scorched. Botan struggled to keep her arms in place, fighting valiantly to keep her corset in place, but the ribbons were slowly unwinding due to the loss of fabric.

"Let me," Kurama offered, taking the time to appreciate the embarrassed flush of her cheeks and the extra skin that was made available to his eyes.

Botan nodded before walking over the the nearest wall. She rested her palms against it and leaned forward, spreading her legs a little farther than shoulder width apart*. Eyeing Botan's back with his lust filled orbs of emerald, Kurama gripped the ribbons that hung loosely from her back and began tightening them. Botan gasped with each tug of the ribbons but made no verbal complaint agianst the tightness. It took some doing, and several more delicious sounds from Botan, to retie it since the strips of red fabric were a little to short to bid them together loosely.

"Thanks," Botan blushed, continuing on in the lead and ignoring the hairs sticking up on the back of her neck. Kurama was looking at her, she knew it, but she really hoped she didn't look that bad.

"No problem." Kurama stepped back to enjoy the view of Botan's rear, a treat he had been denied for quite a while. He wasn't a pervert, contrary to his past exploits, but with all that was going on downstairs and all the touches he'd been giving Botan, could anyone blame him for his not so gentlemanliness? At least, Kurama hoped that was the reason, he had enough complications in his life as is, he could not allow himself to add to his plate by falling for a shikigami; even if she was physically his type.

The rest of the way was smooth sailing and now all that stood in their way was a glass case. Granted, the glass case functioned like the door and would steal the life force of whoever touched it, it was still pretty easy.

Kurama studied the glass while Botan looked for any place for a lock or some other mechanism. What she found was a slot for a DNA sample. Botan groaned at the thought, magicks and seals she could handle, but technology wasn't always so easy. A flash of blue caught her eye, making her jump back in terror. Already she could feel panic creeping up her spine in hopes of laying claim to her again, but she fought it down as best she could.

Kurama rushed to her side and checked for any signs of injury, fearing that she had touched the glass by accident. But his worries were laid to rest when she started murmuring in ancient Japanese again. This time he was able to understand her completely, but what she said made him feel worse.

"Gods no, it can't be. How did she do it? It's not possible," she yammered, scooting backwards away from the glass case and its lock.

"What is it? What happened," Kurama demanded, giving Botan's shoulders a shake to gain her attention.

"I'm the key… How am I the key?" Botan searched Kurama's face for answers, but she found none forthcoming.

"What do you mean?" Kurama located the security device with his eyes, refusing to remove himself from Botan's side while she was the way she was.

"She has a lock of my hair," Botan elaborated shakily, pressing herself against his chest in hopes of keeping dark memories of true pain at bay.

"Who is she," he asked again.

"…Yuri-hime, my sister."

*1 - SHINY! Did you know that Kitsune are ADD? They're easily distracted by shiny things, and moving things, and anything they can chase. There are other demons that share this trait with their animal counterparts, but I'll stick with the kitsune so I don't overload people with information.

*2 - I don't remember if I explained this, so here it goes: a glamour is an illusion of what the caster wants to be seen (or not seen as Botan's case may be). No one can see Botan's scars because of the illusion Botan has perpetually cast around herself, but that doesn't really matter since Kurama already knows they exist and knows where they are.

*3 - I didn't just have Botan lean over like that just to tease Kurama. If you've ever had to tie up a corset, you most likely learned that, that is the best way to do it.

Author's Note: Sorry if there are any mistakes, I was in a rush to post before I went to class so I didn't proof read when I posted the document onto fanfiction. You know how it always changes stuff around or deletes letters, I wasn't able to check for them. Anywho, if I don't get any reviews telling me there are mistakes, I can't fix them since I want to get startded on the next chapter pronto. It'll throw you for a loop!